Rutland Pride May 2018 by Pride Magazines Ltd

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welcome letter

What a wonderful way to begin summer! We’ve had many messages of support for the launch of our Stamford Pride Magazine, sister title to Rutland Pride, and an even more enthusiastic response to the news that Peterborough Pride, our new edition, will debut next month. Our company is growing and following a recruitment drive for editorial staff, sales executives and administrators, we’re delighted to say that we’re geared up for an exciting launch. Of course, next month will also see us attending the Lincolnshire Show and Rutland Show, handing out our flagship June

editions of the magazine, so if you’re keen to show off your business or to promote your event in any of our four magazines this summer, call our friendly team now to avoid disappointment.

This month, we’re enjoying dining out at The Marquess of Exeter, we’re meeting local watercolour artist Helen Cox, and we’re finding out why one local woman could be the key to achieving an invite to this month’s Royal Wedding!

Rob Davis,

Executive Editor

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CONTENTS

120

NEWS & EVENTS 06 10 40

NEWS Our roundup of good news.

HIGH SOCIETY A ‘sports car for five,’ Porsche launches its Cayenne SUV. WHAT’S ON Art and drama in May.

HIGHLIGHTS 24 32

DIFFERENT STROKES Artist and

calligrapher Helen Cox is part of a new clique of young local talent.

A NEW LORD LIEUTENANT

Dr Sarah Furness is the county’s first female Lord Lieutenant. This month she tells us more about the role.

HISTORY The trial of JG Haigh.

FOOD & DRINK 54

DINING OUT Exceptional dining

at quality pub restaurant, Brian Baker’s Marquess of Exeter.

HOMES & INTERIORS 64 72

HOMES In town, but with a country feel; The Old Workshop.

INTERIORS Beautiful homeware and gift ideas from local retailers.

OUTDOORS 88 92

GARDENING Garden design and jobs for May with Soo Spector.

LIFESTYLE Sit back and relax as we enjoy summer in the garden.

LADIES

102 WEDDINGS Blooming beautiful

flowers for your summer wedding.

107 BEAUTY Summer cosmetics that are worth their weight in gold!

MOTORS

120 TEST DRIVE Aston Martin’s

beautiful soft top DB11 grand tourer.

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THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county. Our circulation is to properties in the top three council tax bands - homes which are predominantly worth over ÂŁ300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content. In addition the magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents including Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, WHSmith Tesco, Asda, Co-Op and Morrisons. Our in-house distribution team also works hard to handdeliver the magazine to selected hotels and restaurants, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs. This helps to ensure we have a continued presence, right across our catchment area. Our magazines also have more social media fans than any other local magazine, and we are available to read free of charge, online on your tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website and via the Readly and Issuu platforms. If your business would benefit from being showcased to the wealthiest people in the area, please call our friendly sales team on 01529 469977.

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

In print, and to view on your computer, tablet or mobile device from www.pridemagazines.co.uk

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

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

THE PRIDE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson. Production Director: Ian Bagley. Advertising Director: Zoie Wilkinson. Sales Director: Emily Brown. Executive Editor: Rob Davis. Features Editor: Tilly Wilkinson. Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray. Distribution: Joe Proctor. Office Manager: Sue Bannister. Account Manager: Lauren Chambers. Sales Executives: Hannah Boyle, Charlotte Aiken, Tamer Hodgson, Yvette Coates, Carissa Clay, Hayley Scott, Cassy Ayton, and Grace Walker.

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

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

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NEWS & EVENTS

Two Brand New Pride Magazines

PRIDE MAGAZINES LAUNCHES PETERBOROUGH PRIDE AND STAMFORD PRIDE

PRIDE It’s an exciting month for the Pride Magazines team as we launch not just one, but two new magazines! Last month we launched Stamford Pride, the third magazine in our collection of county magazines, following our launch of our Lincolnshire and Rutland editions in 2002 and 2012 respectively. “There has always been some confusion about why, historically, we’ve included Stamford in our Rutland, rather than our Lincolnshire edition,” says Executive Editor Rob Davis. “It’s because Stamford is geographically more closely aligned with Rutland.” “However, with the launch of our Stamford title, we’ll be able to give the town its own recognition.” “Next month sees the launch of our fourth magazine, Peterborough Pride. Our hope

is to bring to the city a fresh new magazine which, we’re confident will become the finest, highest quality magazine in the city and the surrounding area.”

Your best friend is always welcome in Rutland! WAGGY TAILS ALL ROUND, THANKS TO LOCAL DOG FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION AND RESTAURANTS...

“We’re thrilled about the launch of our new titles, Peterborough Pride and Stamford Pride and the growth of Pride Magazines throughout 2018.” RUTLAND Your four legged friend is always welcome in Rutland, say the county’s tourism bosses. England’s most rural county offers lots of dog walking opportunities, and with so many restaurant owners and hoteliers understanding how much dogs are a part of our family, Discover Rutland has published a list of dog-friendly accommodation sites, places to eat, walks and dog-friendly opportunities in the county. “Many local businesses welcome (and actively encourage) you to visit with your furry

n To advertise your business in any of our four magazines, or if you’ve a feature idea or forthcoming event, call our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email sales@pridemagazines.co.uk. travelling companion,” says Tourism Officer Mary Copley. “Many hotels, guesthouses and self-catering cottages welcome dogs. Meanwhile, Hambleton Hall can even provide you with leads, bedding, cuddly toys and waterproof coats to help your dog have the best holiday.” “The Olive Branch has ground floor rooms with dog beds, bowls, treats and handy walking maps provided.” n For more information on dog-friendly places to visit in Rutland, see www.discover-rutland.co.uk.

Food for Thought

AWARD WINNING ALTHORP FOOD AND DRINK FAIR RETURNS THIS MONTH...

It’s official! You WILL be able to see Tim’s spacecraft...! PETERBOROUGH It’s official!

The final frontier is coming to Peterborough Cathedral later this year after the announcement that Peterborough Cathedral has won a nationwide competition to host Tim Peake’s Soyuz spacecraft and a Space Descent VR experience from Saturday 11th August until November. Soyuz TMA-19M was used by Tim Peake for his Principia mission in 2015-2016. n See www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

glorious Althorp Park is set to be filled with a selection of delicious and inspiring stands, as well as hugely enjoyable culinary events and experiences. Alongside the numerous shopping and tasting opportunities, guests can also become acquainted with top names in food and drink, through the event’s masterclasses. n Tickets £6.50/adults, see www.althorpfoodanddrinkfestival.com

Making a Splash in 2018

AQUA PARK INFLATABLE ATTRACTION RETURNS TO RUTLAND WATER FOR A WHOLE SUMMER OF COOL, RATHER WET, FUN!

RUTLAND It’s back for the summer season, and it’s bigger, better, wackier and wetter than ever before. If you’re the active sort, or if you’ve children or grandchildren, a visit to Rutland’s Aquapark is the ideal way to cool off during a long, hot summer. This year the inflatable attraction on the shore of the reservoir will allow visitors to splash, bounce and run from climbing walls, to slides to rockers and rollers, over a site measuring 100m x 80m. The new 2018 course will open from 26th May, pre-booked tickets £20-£22/person for 50 minutes.

100 Years

ALTHORP The award-winning Althorp Food and Drink Festival will return this May for its fourth year, building on its incredible, award-winning success, by once again presenting some of the most mouthwatering and show-stopping food and drink from Stamford, Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties. On Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th May 2018,

A CELEBRATION OF 100 YEARS of the RAF took place last month, and served as a fond farewell for the outgoing Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Sir Laurence Howard KCVO OBE, after 15 years. Oakham’s Lord Lieutenant’s Parade saw a parade along the High Street towards the Market Place, where Sir Laurence observed the march-past to celebrate his retirement and mark 100 years of Her Majesty’s RAF. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD

HAPPY ENDING FOR LOCAL AUTHOR AS CHILDREN’S BOOK IS PUBLISHED Twenty-six stories about different dogs, all whose names begin with all the letters of the alphabet from A to Z: that’s the basis of a new collection of children’s short stories by a Stamford writer. Former primary school teacher Carolyn Gray has created 4 Paws to show young readers how to form initial sounds, encouraging a focus on the words starting with a particular letter. “I taught phonics daily in the classroom,” the writer explains, “and would be forever thinking of different ways to further develop the children’s understanding of the sounds.” n £12.99, from austinmacauley.com.

n See www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk.

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NEWS

Times Honours Stamford for 2018 TOWN NAMED ONE OF THE UK’S ‘BEST PLACES TO LIVE’ AGAIN IN AWARDS... STAMFORD Once again the finest Georgian town in England has been honoured in The Sunday Times. The newspaper last month published its shortlist of the ‘best places to live in the UK’ recognising Stamford’s character, independent retailers and its community spirit as just three reason it remains one of the most desirable places to live in the country. The supplement in the Sunday newspaper looks at low crime rates, how long residents live, prospects for education and transport links to recommend the happiest places for residents. The city of York was 2018’s overall winner, and in our region, Lincoln was also named as a great place to live too. Stamford is home to over 19,000 people, and was the

LOCAL NEWS In Brief

LOCAL DESIGNER SOPHIE CREATES COMMEMORATIVE WEDDING MUG Local homeware designer Sophie Allport has launched her fine bone china mug to celebrate the wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle on the 19th of May. Sophie Allport’s Royal Wedding mug retails at £13. n

UK’s first conservation area 50 years ago. Highlights include Burghley House and the annual Horse Trials, whilst its open air theatre at Tolethorpe Hall is a real treat

for those who appreciate a night of culture. For other highlights of Stamford, see our April edition in which we identify the best summer activities, the best places to

The Magic of Motown

YOU’LL BE DANCING IN THE STREETS, OR RATHER, IN THE GROUNDS OF BURGHLEY HOUSE AS THE STATELY HOME HOSTS A CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS MOTOWN

eat and drink around the town and name some of the town’s most ramous residents. n Our new Stamford magazine will bring the very best news, events and people from across STAMFORD Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. The timeless music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and more, are sensationally recreated for you by an exceptionally talented cast and band. Reach Out for The Magic of Motown on Saturday 9th June at Burghley House. Tickets £30/adult, available from www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk.

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The new Cayenne debuts at

Porsche Centre

Wow wow wow! Porsche’s all new large SUV, the Cayenne ‘sports car for five,’ made its debut in Leicester last month, with a really impressive launch accompanied by Champagne, cocktails, canapés and a DJ. Porsche Centre Leicester threw the bash for valued customers, celebrating the all new version of a car that first launched in 2002

and now sells in volumes of around 20,000 each year. The car features four wheel drive and room for the whole family. The third iteration version builds on the previous generation’s success by providing intelligent distribution of power to each wheel, an eight speed automatic transmission, and the choice of a 3.0V6 or 4.0V8 engine.

A brand new interior provides unprecedented levels of standard equipment, greater comfort and new technology such as large digital touchscreens to control the car’s navigation and infotainment functions. n For a test drive, contact Porsche Centre Leicester at Thurmaston Lane, Leicester LE4 9LP, call 0116 276 4488, or see www.porscheleicester.co.uk

Feature your event in our magazine for free! 10

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

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Call 01529 469977 to book a photographer! Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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etton mAnor, etton £950,000

Arbury House, IrnHAm £695,000

tel: +44(0)1780 750200 email: stamford@ﬁneandcounty.com

Etton Manor is a substantial Grade II* listed country home set opposite the church on the edge of the quiet village of Etton, with excellent access to the splendid open countryside that surrounds the village. The property itself dates to the 16th century and offers spacious reception rooms and extensive day-today living space. The versatile layout means the house has excellent potential to be used in a number of ways to suit individual requirements. The large attic rooms offer the opportunity to add further accommodation (subject to planning consent) Outside, the gardens has a lawned area surrounded by mature trees and shady seating spots from which to enjoy the peaceful, semi-rural location.

Arbury House offers the perfect opportunity to purchase a spacious family home that has been finished to a high standard. A large gated gravelled driveway provides ample parking with a detached double garage that has a self-contained annexe above. The property benefits from immaculately maintained flexible living accommodation. The landscaped garden wraps around the property, and features lawns, two patios, a gazebo and a productive fruit/vegetable garden. With its characterful interior and private setting within established gardens, Arbury House is a well-proportioned, family home offering attractive, good sized accommodation in a pretty Lincolnshire village.

tel: +44( 0)1572 335145 email: rutland@ﬁneandcounty.com

ﬁneandcountry.com

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tHe old bAkery, ketton ÂŁ465,000

The Old Bakery is one of many historic buildings in Ketton village; dating back to the eighteenth century, it was formerly the village bakery and has since been sympathetically renovated to create a warm and inviting family home. In addition to the main house there is a studio comprising two good-sized creative workspaces which could be used as an annex if desired (subject to planning). The Granary, accessed by the stone steps at the front of the house, is a characterful oďŹ&#x192;ce space. Approached along a winding path to the side of the house, the courtyard garden has been thoughtfully designed with a swing seat beside the pond and a patio area to enjoy the summer sun. The Old Bakery is a unique characterful home in a highly desirable Rutland location.

of Fine & Country customers would recommend our services

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S A L E S • L E T T I N G S • S U R V E Y S • M O R T G A G E S

COTTON COTTAGE, LANGHAM

GUIDE PRICE £875,000

A stylish and impeccably presented ﬁve bedroomed village home with annexe and outbuildings in a sought after Rutland village.

FORGE COTTAGE, MARKET OVERTON

GUIDE PRICE £360,000

A charming Grade II listed three bed cottage sitting in the heart of this popular Rutland village in a quiet and private position.

SYCAMORE HOUSE, SOUTH WITHAM

OFFER OVER £600,000

A spacious Grade II listed village home with ﬂexible accommodation oﬀering annex potential and beautiful south west facing gardens.

STAMFORD ROAD, OAKHAM

PER CALENDAR MONTH £2000

A detached family home situated on a large plot in a sought after residential area and within walking distance of Oakham town centre.

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Manor House, Cold Overton, Rutland

A charming Grade II Listed house, set in 7 acres with beautiful countryside views

Edward Brassey 01858 438 723 Edward.brassey@struttandparker.com

TACK ROOM /STORE | WORK SHOP GREENHOUSE | CIRCA 7.3 ACRES

Guide Price Â£1,300,000

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NOAIN CH

HAMBLETON

Guide Price £995,000

A unique Barn Conversion designed and constructed to an exceptional speciﬁcation throughout and oﬀering a traditional build coupled with the very best of modern craftsmanship to provide a stunning contemporary home set in the heart of the highly sought after Rutland Water village. Open Plan Living Areas, Siematic Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms. Energy Rating: C.

£735,000

An attractive semi-detached Barn Conversion set on a good sized plot, located approximately 1/2 mile to the east of the village of Hambleton, on the peninsula and enjoying panoramic views over Rutland Water. The property oﬀers ﬂexible, spacious family accommodation with abundance of character. Sitting Room, Living Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 5 dbl Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms. Energy Rating: TBC.

WHISSENDINE

£685,000

Substantial, attractive family home with a grass paddock extending to approximately 1.2 acres, dbl Garage, ample parking and good sized gardens set in one of Rutland's most popular villages enjoying lovely rural views to the rear. 3 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Dining Conservatory, Utility, Clkrm, 4 dbl Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms. Energy Rating: C.

NOAIN CH

GRETTON

Guide Pride £750,000

W E N

HAMBLETON

CLIPSHAM

Elegant period property sympathetically extended to oﬀer spacious, well-proportioned accommodation requiring some routine updating situated in the heart of this prestigious Rutland village. 4 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 3 dbl Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms; Dbl Garage, attractive Gardens. Energy Rating: F.

Guide Price £635,000

A handsome Grade II listed village residence dating back to 1750s set on a good-sized corner plot in the heart of this picturesque Welland Valley village on a quiet, one-way street. The property is one of the ﬁrst to have been built in Gretton and has been sympathetically refurbished to a high standard. 2 Reception Rooms, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 2 Attic Rooms; Garage, Gardens. EPC Exempt.

UPPINGHAM

£490,000

A charming period mid-terrace townhouse with oﬀ-road parking and tiered south-facing garden situated on the edge of town. The ﬂexible and well-proportioned accommodation is arranged over three storeys and incorporates 2 Reception Rooms, Dining Kitchen, Cloakroom, 3/4 dbl Bedrooms, en-suite Shower Room and Bathroom. Energy Rating: D.

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A magnificent family home in the centre of this sought after Rutland village with private south facing gardens in striking distance of both Stamford and Oakham • 4 Reception Rooms, Utility Room • 5 Bedrooms (3 En Suite) • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Self Contained Annexe, Garages • Laundry Room, Family Bathroom • Outbuildings, Gardens, EPC Rating C

Empingham, Rutland – GUIDE PRICE £1,295,000

A substantial Georgian Grade II listed country residence situated within 7 acres of landscaped gardens, equestrian facilities and paddock • Reception Hall, Kitchen • Ironing/Laundry/Games Rooms • 3 Reception Rooms, Play Room • Wine Store, Stables, Tack Room • 8 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms • Gardens, Approx 7 Acres

An outstanding refurbishment of a prestigious country house, set in gardens and grounds with an orchard, set in some 2.4 acres, with newly built coach house with storage over • Reception Hall, 3 Reception Rooms • Coach House, Electric Gates • Kitchen/Dining/Living Room • 8,722 sq ft, Private Drive • 6 Bedrooms, 4 En Suite Bathrooms • Stunning South facing Gardens

Barleythorpe, Rutland – GUIDE PRICE £1,525,000

A magnificent property, surrounded by rural countryside, located down a private gated drive, just 15 miles outside of Stamford • 6 Double Bedrooms (5 en suite) • Private Fishing Lake • 3 Reception Rooms, Orangery • 10 Acre Gardens with Gardener • Games Room, Triple Garage • Fenced Paddock, EPC rating D Application fee of £100 (inc VAT) per application – all applicants over the ages of 18, unless dependent, are required to be referenced

Careby, Lincolnshire – GUIDE PRICE £895,000

Apethorpe, Northamptonshire – TO LET £6,500 pcm

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www.mountandminster.co.uk

Willow End, Horbling A spacious executive home located on a superb plot with open countryside views and accessed through electric gates. Willow End offers spacious, luxuriously appointed accommodation in a sought-after village location, and comprises an entrance hall, living room, dining room, study, garden room, kitchen, utility, two cloakrooms, 4/5 double bedrooms and 3 bathrooms including 2 en suites. Outside, the property is approached by a sweeping driveway, with a double garage to the side, and established gardens to the front and rear. The main garden gives onto open ﬁelds, and features a lily pond with fountain. EPC Rating: C. Guide Price: £475,000

LD O S

The Manse, Navenby A beautifully proportioned family home with generous sized rooms, while beneﬁtting from being located in an extremely sought-after Cliff Village. The Manse was originally the old Navenby Methodist minister’s rectory, demonstrating well proportioned living accommodation including a lounge, dining room, family room, kitchen and utility, four double bedrooms and the family bathroom. The property also features front and rear gardens, private driveway and a garage. EPC Rating: G. Guide Price: £420,000

Lincoln – 01522 716204 Grantham – 01476 515329 London – 020 7839 0888

Ralph WyrleyBirch

James Ward

Bob Bickersteth Milly English

Amy Merrigan

Paul Baxter

Ann Gwyther

Daniel Baines

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PROPERTY FINDERS

THE DOWNSIZING DEBATE Leading property expert Kate Vincent of Garrington discusses some of the common questions retired homeowners ask, when considering whether to downsize from their family home In response to my regular Rutland Pride articles it is not uncommon to receive a call from a retiree; inviting me to see their home and discuss what a next move might look like. I am always delighted to attend these meetings. It is always fascinating to see potential off-market properties and it is gratifying to know that we can offer support at a potentially challenging stage of a homeowner’s life. During these meetings, a handful of reoccurring questions materialise so in this article, I’d like to share a few of these and suggest how these concerns might be addressed. Is now the right time to move?

This is largely a personal matter that only you can decide. Whilst you have your health you are still able to deal with the maintenance of a larger house and garden, but there is an argument to suggest that, because you can, this is exactly the time to move.

To explain; moving when you’re well means that you have the energy to cope with the physical and mental strain, the positivity to plan a move at a pace, and to a location, that suits you and once moved, with fewer home maintenance commitments, have the opportunity to travel and see family.

Whether the market conditions are right to sell, buy or rent will depend upon a plethora of factors and this is where a professional

property consultant such as myself can advise and help you plan.

Should we find somewhere to move to before putting our house on the market? Whilst it is natural to feel reluctant to offer your home for sale before knowing where you are going, in today’s market, it is usually ill-advised to hold off selling before finding the next property. If you have lived in your family home for many years it may have become a little dated and although many homeowners are meticulous with their upkeep, the comfortable look appreciated by one generation may not have the same appeal to another generation.

Where shall we move to?

Rural versus urban? If you have always lived in the countryside then you may not be keen to move into Stamford, Oakham or Uppingham even if the improved transport links, shops and facilities suggest that you ought to.

A few of the larger villages such as Corby Glen, Helpston and Wansford still have a shop, a regular bus route and a doctor’s surgery but these are quite rare. The other option is to find a green spot in one of our market towns which may give you a view of nature and relative quiet but still access to all the essential facilities.

The point here is that many ‘older’ properties in the current uncertain economic and political world have diminished appeal. So, do start planning to sell before you plan to buy. What’s the best way to sell our home?

There are some very reputable and experienced estate agents in the area who will happily advise you on the pricing and potential saleability of your home, whether it be through active or ‘discrete’ marketing. If you are not in a particular rush and would like to ‘dip your toe’ in the market, selling off-market via an agent or to a client of a professional property finder may give you more control of the price and timing, as well as starting the selling process without the whole of the East Midlands knowing!

Kate Vincent GARRINGTON

If you are debating whether now is the right time to downsize or would like some support when considering downsizing, Garrington can reduce the stress through its a comprehensive support service - helping you to sell your property, find your ideal next home and oversee the whole process. For a commitment free discussion call:

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

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HIGHLIGHTS

Beautiful Brush Strokes Stamford artist and calligrapher Helen Cox of Orange Pippin is celebrating her first anniversary of turning a hobby into an artisan business. Proving the pen is mightier than the sword, she has created beautiful bespoke wedding stationery and hand-painted illustrations... With the advent of keyboards, electronic communication and digital typography, you’d be forgiven for thinking the age of graceful handwriting has ended.

Furthermore, Helen and Oliver are part of a small clique of Stamford youngsters who are helping each other out in the creative industries. Oliver is a talented illustrator, whilst his sister, Alexandra, is a photographer and her partner is a graphic designer.

Not a bit. At least, not in the work of Helen Cox, Stamford illustrator and calligrapher who this month celebrates her first year in business creating beautiful - and entirely hand-produced calligraphy and watercolour illustrations.

Collectively they can call upon each other’s talents and have all begun to obtain commissions from the Stamford area.

Helen now spends half of her time creating bespoke stationery, typically for weddings, whilst a further chunk of her time sees her working on bespoke illustrations or calligraphy for clients - flowers or botanicals, buildings or clients’ houses, and pets, for example.

Even the priciest bespoke wedding stationery can often utilise digital images or swirly fonts masquerading as handwriting, but the wedding invites, thank you notelets, table plans and menus produced by Helen are entirely hand-drawn. “I’ve lived in Stamford my whole life and I absolutely love the town,” says Helen. “My partner and I have a place in Sheffield, and we moved there so that he could pursue his career as a screen printer and illustrator.”

“But neither of us wanted to lose our connection to Stamford, and I didn’t want to lose the existing clients I’d built up who were already noticing my work.”

Helen was raised in Stamford and educated at Stamford Endowed Schools, before she and her partner, fellow Stamfordian Oliver left for Loughborough where Helen pursued a degree in fine art. 24

Helen created her business, Orange Pippin, having found calligraphy initially as a hobby, and has since broadened her strokes to pursue watercolour painting, too.

Working at a local marketing agency gave Helen the experience of how to negotiate with printers and get her work professionally reproduced. And so, by the time she began her business Helen was already really savvy. Above: A botanical commission for a client’s home matching an existing colour in the home and featuring the client’s favourite peony flowers. Opposite: Helen Cox.

The remainder of her time has been spent creating her own range of cards and wrapping papers sold in outlets such as the town’s Emma Cutmore boutique, Stamford Garden Centre and in Lucy Flint jewellery.

“I love the outdoors and take great inspiration from going out and about walking,” says Helen. “The seasons feature heavily in my work, and I particularly love peonies, foxgloves and azaleas. I spend a lot of time studying them and making an initial sketch before beginning work freehand.” Helen uses watercolour to create her paintings and then spends considerable time blending >>

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- THE ILLUSTRATOR -

>> gouache colours to create her own inks for calligraphy; as well as using gold and silver inks with metallic flecks.

“I adore nature and producing illustrations of hares, chickens and easter bunnies. All of my commercially printed work is printed by a company whose operations are carbon neutral. I use recycled paper and vegetable based inks to ensure the environmental impact is low as possible.”

Helen’s commission are beautiful, traditional and vibrant, full of life and colour. In an age of fonts and digital artworking, though, it’s reassuring to know that traditional skills endure, and that the pen remains mightier than the sword... and the PC! n For More Information: Call 07805 361149 or see Helen’s website to discuss a comission at www.orange-pippin.co.uk.

Above: Celebrating her first anniversary in business this month, Helen works from her studio to create watercolour illustrations and beautiful calligraphy. Her business, Orange Pippin, is named after her beloved Jack Russell terrier and the traditional English apple. Her work includes wedding stationery, gift commission and commercial work too. Photography of Work: Alexandra Wallace.

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SITUATIONS VACANT...

A NEW CAREER AT PRIDE MAGAZINES... With the launch of Stamford Pride and Peterborough Pride, joining our existing Lincolnshire and Rutland magazines, our business is growing! This means we’re looking to recruit for the following full time positions: MAGAZINE EDITOR

Our magazines are very well-regarded by readers and advertisers alike, and positions to join our editorial team are very rare and highly sought after. You’ll be literate, confident and well-organised, assisting our editorial team with creating quality editorial for print and online purposes. Experience with writing, page layout software and photography are essential.

2 X FIELD SALES

We have two field sales positions available for characters with excellent communication skills, determination and big personalities. To join our large sales force you must have sales experience, having worked in the profession for at least five years. You’ll be part of our team, working hard to introduce people to our much-loved magazines.

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

We are also looking to appoint a candidate to join our administration team. The successful applicant will need excellent organisational skills, as well as a professional telephone manner. Main duties will include credit control, use of Sage software and Excel, plus assisting the sales team and helping to maintain our inscrutibly high standards of customer service.

All positions are full time with five weeks holiday and are based at our recently refurbished five star offices. Send a CV with your cover letter to jobs@pridemagazines.co.uk. All of our positions are based at Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington, Boston, Lincs PE20 3QF.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Our New Lord LIEUTENANT

The county will shortly gain a new Lord Lieutenant - the first ever woman to hold the title in Rutland. Former High Sheriff Dr Sarah Furness will take on the role as Sir Lawrence Howard retires on his 75th birthday If you’d like an invitation to one of the biggest events taking place in 2018, you’d better hope you’ve remained on the good side of Dr Sarah Furness. That’s because our new Lord Lieutenant has the unenviable talk of selecting just a few enterprising youngsters from the area to attend the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle this month. The UK’s 98 Lord Lieutenants will each recommend a privileged few to attend the event, one of Sarah’s first and happiest jobs in her new role. It’s fitting that the appointment will

Image: Sonara Studios.

take place on the centenary of women achieving the vote, as the former High Sheriff will be the first ever woman appointed to the role in the county. “I never dreamt that I would be appointed to such a role,” says Sarah.

“It is an enormous honour to serve Her Majesty the Queen as her representative in Rutland, a county I really love. I am delighted and will serve both Her Majesty - and Rutland - diligently.” Sarah will be known to many people in Rutland as the county’s High Sheriff in 2016 and 2017.

Dr Lawrence Howard Retires: Going Out in Style... A Royal Air Force parade wishing a fond farewell to outgoing Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Sir Laurence Howard will form part of a special day of commemorations taking place as Pride goes to press. The parade will celebrate the retirement of Sir Laurence Howard KCVO OBE after 15 years as Rutland’s Lord-Lieutenant. Sir Laurence was appointed as Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland in 2003, serving as the Queen’s personal representative in Rutland. The parade on Sunday 25th March will also mark the Centenary of the Royal Air Force and 90th anniversary of No 504 (County of Nottingham) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force. Following a service of thanksgiving at All Saints Church, there will be a parade through Oakham. The Lord-Lieutenant’s

Parade will then undergo inspection outside All Saints Church at around 3.30pm on Sunday, before parading down Church Street and along High Street towards the Market Place, where Sir Laurence will observe the march-past and salute the Colour. For more information see www.rutland.gov.uk.

Her tenure saw the introduction of the Hue and Cry, races for charity down Oakham High Street, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation training for all Rutland 15 year olds, mock trials run by magistrates in schools and events in Uppingham and across the county. Sarah says that whilst she had always loved Rutland, her year as a High Sheriff meeting so many people doing good for others in the county was transformative.

“There are over 300 voluntary organisations working for the good of all in Rutland. It’s a very special place for which she has great affection and which she looks forward to serving,” she says.

Sarah is currently a trustee of the Sustainable Land Trust, an organisation looking after the environment and turning around the lives of troubled teenagers. She is also a governor of Uppingham Community College, and also a trustee of Rutland Grants which provides help to those in Rutland who are ill or poor and in need. The county also has one of the biggest alms house charities in England. There are 102 residences for the elderly run by the St John and St Anne’s charity in central Oakham and Uppingham; they have recently asked Sarah to join their board. Sarah is also on the Steering Committee for Women in Philanthropy a group of women from the area who collectively give to three small carefully chosen local charities each year.

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Children’s mental health was something which Sarah realised was of great concern during her year as High Sheriff. Sarah has been asked to chair a project ensuring that Rutland’s youngsters have the best help available. She also hopes to chair a project on End of Life Care - something of great importance in the county, which is due to have an enormous increase in the proportion of elderly people in the next twenty years. Elsewhere, Sarah has been pleased to join the board for the Rutland Cinema project Kino. The role of Lord Lieutenant now necessitates upholding the principles of the monarchy in the county, which also includes co-ordinating royal visits, making arrangements on behalf of the intended locations that each member of the family will visit, and creating a shortlist for Sarah’s local residents to be invited to the three annual Royal Garden Parties, to which 30,000 people will be invited from across the UK.

As a passionate gardener, Sarah’s garden has been opened for the National Garden Scheme for the last sixteen years. In spite of her appointment it will be open on May 27th this year.

Happily married to Professor Peter Furness for nearly 39 years he looks forward to supporting her in the role of Lord Lieutenant. Her daughter, Felicity who grew up in Rutland and went to school here is also delighted that her mother has been given such an honour. n 33

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OUR BUSINESS IS GROWING, AND WE CAN HELP YOURS TO GROW, TOO...

First there was LINCOLNSHIRE

PRIDE. Then, there was RUTLAND PRIDE. Above, Left to Right: Sales Executive Hannah is holding our Lincolnshire edition, which launched in 2002. Advertising Director Zoie has our Rutland Edition which launched in 2012. Tamer holds our Stamford edition which is in shops now, and Charlotte presents our new Peterborough edition, which we will launch next month.

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PRIDE OUR FOUR

MAGAZINES

Now, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STAMFORD

PRIDE... and PETERBOROUGH PRIDE will be launched next month!

To advertise your business in any of our four editions, call our friendly and professional team on 01529 469977 or call sales@pridemagazines.co.uk.

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On... KILWORTH

29th - 31st MAY

STAMFORD

GUYS & DOLLS

27th - 28th MAY

BURGHLEY GAME & COUNTRY FAIR

This celebrated Tony and Olivier award-winning musical comedy is set amidst the hustle and bustle of 1950s New York. It follows larger than life characters as they sing, dance and bluff their way through a host of endless exploits. The performance takes place at Kilworth House Theatre with pretheatre dining and theatre breaks available. The covered auditorium has a capacity of 550 whilst Kilworth House is a splendid Grade II listed 19th century country house hotel set in 38 acres.

Three main arenas, supported by a host of smaller country sports arenas and workshops. Enjoy the very best in countryside activities and entertainment at the 2018 Burghley Game & Country Fair can offer visitors an unbeatable family day out in the stunning grounds of Stamford’s Elizabethan stately home. Enjoy horseboarding, falconry, the shooting village, the event’s World of Dogs, chainsaw carving, lurchers and ferret racing, angling, and traditional working crafts. A celebration of our local countryside not to be missed!

n Tickets £35, call 01858 881939 or see kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk. DINGLEY

SUNDAY 6th MAY SATURDAY 26th MAY

n Tickets £14/adults; £13/OAPs; £4/children over five, in advance. Call 01283 820660 or see burghleygameandcountryfair.co.uk.

Murder in May... with a shocking twist at the end!

CRIME WRITER AGATHA CHRISTIE’S LOVE FROM A STRANGER MAKES IT TO THE STAGE THIS MONTH... BUT WHODUNNIT?

DINGLEY RACES

LEICESTER

TUESDAY 8th to SATURDAY 12th MAY

LOVE FROM A STRANGER

A whirlwind romance with a handsome and charming stranger sweeps Cecily Harrington off her feet and she recklessly abandons her old life to settle in the remote and blissful surroundings of a country cottage. But her new love is not all that he seems… Electric with suspense and with a shocking twist, this edge-of-yourseat, rarely seen thriller by the greatest crime writer is rediscovered in a brand new production by Lucy Bailey. n Based at The Curve Theatre, Leicester, 8th-12th May, £14.50 - £32.50, call 0116 2423595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

The thrill of a traditional point to point meeting; the forerunner to modern jump racing. A course of two and a half to four miles in the beautiful Market Harborough countryside. The racecourse and viewing facilities at Dingley are almost unique, as all of the racing action can been seen from your car if you do not wish to leave your picnic during the day’s racing!

n Tickets £12.50/online; £15/gate, call 01733 245829 or see www.dingleyraces.com.

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

PETERBOROUGH

THURSDAY 3rd MAY

The Key Theatre presents a sublime live screening of this breathtakingly beautiful Tonyaward winning Broadway musical. Featuring a libretto by George and Ira Gershwin, plus classic hits like S’Wonderful and I Got Rhythm.

Something wicked this way comes! Returning home from battle, the victorious Macbeth meets three witches on the heath. Driven by their disturbing prophecies, he sets out on the path to murder. This contemporary production of Shakespeare’s darkest psychological thriller marks both Christopher Eccleston’s RSC debut and the return of Niamh Cusack to the Company.

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

n From 7.30pm, tickets £11.50. The Broadway Theatre, 01733 207239 or www.vivacity.org. PETERBOROUGH

SUNDAY 20th MAY

JOOLS HOLLAND WITH MARC ALMOND AND RUBY TURNER The most beloved boogie woogie broadcaster returns to the area with local drummer Gilson Lavis, as well as Marc Almond, Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall, Rosie Mae and of course, his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, at Peterborough’s Broadway Theatre in May.

Playing to audiences in excess of 300,000 each year… the 19-piece orchestra consists of a pianist, organist, drummer, three female vocals, guitar, bass guitar, two tenor saxophones, two alto saxophones, baritone saxophone, three trumpets and three trombones. Jools and his orchestra tours all over the world and now they add The Broadway, to their schedule too.

n From 7.30pm, tickets £37-£45, 01733 306071 or find out more at www.thebroadway.today.

Classical Music in May

BARDI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, PHILHARMONIA AND THE LEICESTER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TOO

STAMFORD

WEDNESDAY 16th MAY

STAMFORD

THURSDAY 24th MAY

FROM THE JAM: LIVE & ACOUSTIC

Live and acoustic tribute performance featuring the songs of The Jam and Paul Weller. The group has 18 singles from 1977-1982 from That’s Entertainment to Town Called Malice, Eton Rifles and Going Underground.

n Stamford Corn Exchange, tickets £24.50, 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk. LEICESTER

TUESDAY 8th MAY SUNDAY 13th MAY SATURDAY 19th MAY

PHILHARMONIA, BARDI ORCHESTRA AND LEICESTER’S SYMPHONY...

Those who enjoy classical music are really in for a treat this month as Leicester’s DeMontfort Hall host no fewer than three events this month. Conductor Christoph Altstaedt and Singers from the Glyndebourne Jerwood Young Artists scheme deliver a programme of Wagner, Masseget, Verdi and Liszt on

RSC’S MACBETH, LIVE SCREENING

n Tickets £14, from 10am, at Stamford Theatre, 01780 763203 or see stamfordartscentre.com. OAKHAM

19th MAY - 1st JUNE

WALKING & CYCLING

The Rutland Walking & Cycling Festival returns with the ‘Rutland Round’ route and 43 additional activities planned. n Download a free programme at www.activerutland.org.uk.

8th May, with both operatic and symphonic C19th story telling. Meanwhile, the Bardi Symphony Orchestra presents three top-flight international soloists conducted by Claus Efland (pictured) performing Beethoven & Strauss on Sunday 13th May. Finally, the Leicestershire Symphony Orchestra perfoms Revolutionary Russians; Shostakovich, Mussorgsky, Medtner and Tchaikovsky. Performances take place at Leicester’s DeMontfort Hall.

n For more information, and for prices and times, call 0116 233 3111 or see www.demontforthall.co.uk.

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NEWS & EVENTS

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

Stamford Shakespeare Company

TOLETHORPE OPEN AIR THEATRE’S PRODUCTIONS BEGIN FOR THE COMPANY’S 2018 SEASON OF SHAKESPEARE AND DRAMA STAMFORD

12th JUNE - 1st SEPT

STAMFORD SHAKESPEARE COMPANY

The box office is open now for next month’s inaugural performances of the 2018 season at one of the area’s must-see Summer events. This year represents the 50th anniversary of the theatre, founded by Jean Harley in 1968, originally in the grounds of The George of Stamford. Today the theatre is based in the Grade II* listed Elizabethan Tolethorpe Hall, and has a team of over 100

volunteers working hard to host three productions each year for an annual audience of more than 33,000.

This year’s two Shakespeare plays are The Merchant of Venice and The Merry Wives of Windsor, whilst the company will also present Sheridan’s School for Scandal. As well as the performances themselves, with their excellent production values and the splendid setting of the open air amphitheatre, visitors and also enjoy dining in the hall, or a picnic in the grounds prior to a performance. We can’t recommend a visit to the theatre highly enough this summer! n For performance dates, times and ticket prices, call 01780 756133 or see stamfordshakespeare.co.uk.

UPPINGHAM

FRIDAY 4th MAY

BALLET CENTRAL

Under the artistic direction of Christopher Marney, Ballet Central returns with a new programme showcasing the best in dance theatre. These young dancers on the cusp of their professional careers will perform a mixed bill, featuring works by world-renowned choreographers. See Jenna Lee’s brand new creation Black Swan, a dark twist on the iconic classic, and a gothic reworking of the Fairies Prologue from Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. An excerpt from FAR by the multi award-winning choreographer and director Wayne McGregor will also feature, as will Christopher Gable’s retelling of Cinderella. n Tickets £13/£14, from 7.30pm, Uppingham Theatre. Call 01572 820820 or see www.upp thearts.co.uk.

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Main: A police photograph of John George Haigh taken in 1949 soon after his arrest took place and the trial began.

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HISTORY

Stamford’s

SERIAL KILLER

STAMFORD IS A TOWN OF GREAT MINDS. IT CAN BOAST THE LIKES OF THE LORD BURGHLEY WILLIAM CECIL, FAMOUS INVENTOR COLIN FURZE AND CONDUCTOR MICHAEL TIPPETT TO NAME JUST A FEW. HOWEVER, STAMFORD IS ALSO THE SOURCE OF AN EVIL MIND MOST COMMONLY KNOWN AS JOHN GEORGE HAIGH OR ‘THE ACID BATH MURDERER...’ When you walk the streets of Stamford, it’s hard to believe that a serial killer once roamed the same routes. John George Haigh is one of the most famous serial killers in English history although not many are aware he originates from Stamford. Haigh was born in the town, living here for a while before moving and growing up in Outwood in the West Riding of Yorkshire. His parents were engineer John and Emily Robert, members of the Plymouth Brethren, a conservative Protestant sect.

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

It was because of this keen interest and talent that Haigh won a scholarship to Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield. He then won another scholarship to Wakefield Cathedral, where he became a choirboy. After school, he was apprenticed to a firm of motor engineers. After a year, he left that

family ostracised Haigh once they heard the news about his situation. When he was released from prison, he moved to London in 1936, and became chauffeur to William McSwan, a wealthy owner of amusement arcades. He maintained McSwan’s amusement machines.

“Haigh was fond of classical music and often enjoyed attending various concerts featuring music by Felix Mendelssohn, Johann Sebastian Bach, Antonio Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky and many more...”

Haigh later claimed that he suffered from recurring religious nightmares in his childhood. Despite these limitations, Haigh developed great proficiency at the piano, which he learned at home.

He was fond of classical music and often enjoyed attending various concerts across the country featuring music by the likes of Felix Mendelssohn, Johann Sebastian Bach, Antonio Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky and many, many more.

job, and took jobs in insurance and advertising. At 21, he was fired after being suspected of stealing from a cash box.

In 1934, Haigh married 23 year old Beatrice ‘Betty’ Hamer. However, the marriage did not last long. The same year that Haigh was jailed for fraud, Betty gave birth while he was in prison. She gave the baby girl up for adoption and left Haigh. His conservative

Thereafter he pretended to be a solicitor under the pseudonym William Cato Adamson with offices in Chancery Lane in London, Guildford in Surrey and Hastings, Sussex.

He sold fraudulent stock shares, purportedly from the estates of his deceased clients, at below-market rates. His scam was soon uncovered by someone who noticed he had misspelled Guildford as ‘Guilford’ on his letterhead, an unlikely mistake from an educated solicitor. Haigh received a four year prison sentence for fraud. Haigh was released just after the start of the WWII, continued as a fraudster, and was sentenced to several further terms

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of imprisonment. It was at this point in his criminal life, that Haigh realised that his repeated arrests stemmed from leaving victims alive to report the crime.

He became intrigued by the crimes of French murderer Georges-Alexandre Sarret, who in 1925 had disposed of his victims’ bodies via sulphuric acid. While in prison, Haigh devised a method of destruction of the body of a murder victim by dissolving it in the acid. He experimented with field mice and found that it took only 30 minutes for the body to dissolve. Haigh was freed from prison in 1943 and became an accountant with an engineering firm. Soon after, by chance, he bumped into his former employer McSwan in The Goat pub in Kensington. McSwan introduced Haigh to his parents, Donald and Amy.

McSwan worked for them by collecting rents on their London properties, and Haigh became envious of his lifestyle. In 1944, McSwan disappeared. Haigh later admitted hitting him over the head after luring him into a basement at 79 Gloucester Road, London. He put McSwan’s body into a 40-gallon drum and tipped concentrated sulphuric acid onto it. Two days later he returned to find that the body had become sludge, which he poured down a manhole.

“If I told you the truth, you would not believe me,” said Haigh during questioning with Detective Inspector Albert Webb. “It sounds too fantastic believe.” He then went on to confess to all of his horrendous crimes, some unknown to the police... He told McSwan’s parents that their son had gone into hiding in Scotland to avoid being called up for military service.

Haigh then took over McSwan’s house and began collecting the rents for his parents, but he wanted the money from the properties.

Donald and Amy became curious as to why their son had not returned as the war was coming to an end. In 1945, he lured them to Gloucester Road by telling them their son was back from Scotland for a surprise visit. He murdered them in his basement with blows to the head and disposed of them.

Haigh stole William McSwan’s pension cheques and sold their properties, stealing about £8,000, then moved into the Onslow Court Hotel in Kensington. Haigh was a gambler and was running short of money by the summer of 1947. To solve his financial troubles, he found another couple to kill and rob; Dr Archibald Henderson 50

and his wife Rose, whom he murdered after feigning interest in a house that they were selling.

He was invited to the Hendersons’ flat by Rose to play the piano for their housewarming party. While at the flat Haigh stole Archibald Henderson’s revolver, planning to use it in his next crime.

As the scale of his crimes became more and more serious, Haigh decided to rent a small workshop in Sussex and moved acid and drums there from Gloucester Road.

Haigh was also known to have stayed at Crawley’s George Hotel on several occasions. In 1948, he drove Henderson to Crawley on the pretext of showing him an invention. When they arrived, Haigh shot Henderson in the head with the stolen revolver. He then lured Mrs Henderson to the workshop, claiming that her husband had fallen ill, and shot her also.

After disposing of the Hendersons’ bodies in oil drums filled with acid, he forged a letter from them and sold all of their possessions for £8,000, except their dog and motor car, which he decided to keep. Haigh’s next and last victim was Olive Durand-Deacon, a 69 year old wealthy widow of solicitor John Durand-Deacon and a fellow resident to Haigh at the Onslow Court Hotel.

Haigh by then was calling himself an engineer, and Olive mentioned an idea to him that she had for artificial fingernails. He invited her down to the Leopold Road workshop on in 1949 and, once inside, he shot her in the back of the neck with the revolver that he had stolen from Archibald Henderson. He stripped Olive of her valuables, including a Persian lamb coat, and put her into the acid bath. This was to be Haigh’s last victim. Two days later, Durand-Deacon’s friend Constance Lane reported her missing. Detectives soon discovered Haigh’s record of theft and fraud and searched the workshop. Police found Haigh’s briefcase containing a dry cleaner’s receipt for Mrs. Durand-Deacon’s coat, and also papers referring to the Hendersons and McSwans.

The workshop in Sussex rented by Haigh did not contain a floor drain, unlike the workshop he had rented at Gloucester Road in London. He therefore disposed of the remains by pouring out the container on a rubble pile at the back of the property. Investigation of the area by pathologist Keith Simpson revealed 28 pounds of human body fat, part of a human foot, human gallstones and part of a denture which was later identified by Mrs Durand-Deacon’s dentist during the trial.

“Tell me, frankly, what are the chances of anybody being released from Broadmoor?”

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said Haigh during questioning with Detective Inspector Albert Webb. Broadmoor was a high security psychiatric hospital. The inspector said that he could not discuss that sort of thing.

“Well, if I told you the truth, you would not believe me,” Haigh replied. “It sounds too fantastic believe.” Haigh then went on to confess that he had killed Durand-Deacon, the McSwans and the Hendersons, as well as three other people; a young man called Max, a girl from Eastbourne, and a woman from Hammersmith. Unfortunately, these claims could not be substantiated. After the arrest of John George Haigh based on his claims, he remained in custody in Cell 2 of Horsham Police Station in Barttelot Road.

He was charged with murder at the nearby courthouse in what is now known as the Old Town Hall. However, Haigh decided to plead insanity, claiming that he had drunk the blood of his victims.

He confessed to having dreams dominated by blood as a young boy. When he was involved in a car accident in March 1944, his dream returned to him.

“I saw before me a forest of crucifixes which gradually turned into trees. At first, there appeared to be dew or rain, dripping from the branches, but as I approached I realized it was blood,” said Haigh.

“The whole forest began to writhe and the trees, dark and erect, to ooze blood. A man went from each tree catching the blood. When the cup was full, he approached me. Drink, he said, but I was unable to move.”

This is when the trial for John George Haigh, the acid bath murderer, began. His prosecution involved three key people; the Attorney General, Sir Hartley Shawcross, Sir David Maxwell Fyfe and Mr Justice Travers Humphreys...

The Trial: Key People... The Attorney-General, Sir Hartley Shawcross, later known as Lord Shawcross, led for the prosecution at Lewes Assizes, and urged the jury to reject Haigh’s defence of insanity because he had acted with malice aforethought. Shawcross was a barrister and politician and the lead British prosecutor at the Nuremberg War Crimes tribunal.

He would go up against Sir David Maxwell Fyfe, defending Haigh. Fyfe was also known as the Earl of Kilmuir. He was a politician, lawyer and judge who combined an industrious and precocious legal career with political ambitions that took him to the offices of Solicitor General, Attorney General, Home Secretary and Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain. He called many witnesses to attest to Haigh’s mental state, including Dr Henry Yellowlees, who claimed Haigh had a paranoid constitution. “The absolute callous, cheerful, bland and almost friendly indifference of the accused to the crimes which he freely admits having committed is unique in my experience.” However, in the end, it was all for nothing. It took only minutes for the jury to find Haigh guilty. Mr Justice Travers Humphreys sentenced him to death. Haigh lived out the short amount of time he had left in his condemned cell at Wandsworth Prison. Just prior to his execution, Haigh was asked if he wanted a brandy. “Make it a large one, old boy,” was his reply. Haigh was led to the gallows and hanged by executioner Albert Pierrepoint in 1949. The case of John George Haigh was one of the post 1945 cases which gained considerable coverage in the newspapers even though Haigh’s guilt was never questioned. The editor of the Daily Mirror, Silvester Bolam, was sentenced to a prison term for contempt of court for describing Haigh as a ‘murderer’ while the trial was still under way. n

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RELAX AND UNWIND AT REDWINGS LODGE RUTLAND

As a small chain of privately owned hotels, we understand what's important when looking for overnight accommodation, with wellappointed rooms, good facilities and friendly service. Redwings Lodge caters for the business traveller, families and visitors to the area. Located halfway between Leicester and Peterborough; Redwings Lodge Rutland boasts stunning views of historic Rutland, an area of outstanding beauty. Combining convenience, comfort and value for money, our Lodge is the perfect place to stay whether your travelling for business or pleasure. • Free WiFi • Free Self Service Light Breakfast • Free Parking • Dog Friendly

• 24 Hours • TV's with Free view • Family Rooms • Accessible Room • Non Smoking Rooms

• Tea/Coffee Making Facilities in Rooms • Cots/Hair-dryers available on Request

REDWINGS LODGE A47 Glaston Road, Morcott, Uppingham LE15 9DL 01572 748787 www.redwingslodge.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

LYDDINGTON’S

MARQUESS of EXETER

Among the questions you’ll find answers to, at Lyddington’s Marquess of Exeter, is where to find one of the best dining experiences in the area, with great quality pub restaurant food, a lovely atmosphere and a very warm welcome... Words & Images: Rob Davis.

What is monophobia? What insect can jump 200 times its own height? And what is nutty slack? Not the usual pre-dining posers, I’ll grant you. However, since our last visit to Lyddington’s Marquess of Exeter, its chef patron Brian Baker has come over all quizmaster on us and has left upon each of his pub restaurant’s tables several well-thumbed question cards from his old Trivial Pursuit board game.

Why? Why not? It’s a pleasant diversion and a quirky one, which in our opinion rather suits the old boozer turned gastropub.

The questions are just one of a few changes since my last visit to the place. My colleague Tilly visited to write the pub’s last dining out feature, which I must admit I was really rather jealous about, because I always rather

BUILT IN THE 16TH CENTURY, THE PUB RESTAURANT HAD SEEN BETTER DAYS UNTIL, IN 2009 BRIAN BAKER TREATED IT TO A MAKEOVER...

meet the CHEF BRIAN BAKER, HEAD CHEF OF THE MARQUESS

like paying a return visit to the Marquess whenever the opportunity arises. And though I’ve written a couple of articles about the place in my time, I never seem short of new words... perhaps because Brian and his team never seem short of new ideas for their menus. She’s a grand old girl, is the ironstone pub restaurant. Built in the 16th century and carrying a Grade II listing it had seen better days until, in 2009, she was treated to a full refurbishment and was transformed into a restaurant with an 80 seater dining room, and a lovely bar area in the old thatched bit of the building. There are also 17 en suite bedrooms if you get a bit carried away enjoying Brian’s skilfully curated wine menu,

Experience: Having worked at Hambleton Hall, then The Criterion and Kensington’s Abingdon, Brian returned to Rutland in 2003 to take over the Fox & Hounds, Knossington before taking on the Marquess eight years ago. Philosophy: Great food needs to be technically well executed, not over complicated.

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>> or rather most respectably, if you’ve friends or family in the area and need somewhere smart to put them up for the night. Brian absolutely loathes anyone making mention of his celebrity past, serving as personal chef in a previous life to fashion designer Valentino, and Elton John, so we definitely won’t be mentioning that.

Instead, we’ll point out that before joining London’s Criterion, Brian worked at Hambleton Hall, building up the reputation of one of Rutland’s other must-visit dining destinations.

OPEN FOR FOOD Lunch 12 noon - 2.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Dinner 6.30pm - 9.30pm Monday to Saturday. Sunday 12 noon -3pm; 6.30pm - 9pm.

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- DINING OUT -

on the MENU FROM THE MENU OF THE DAY AT THE MARQUESS OF EXETER

Starters

Grilled smoked salmon with Asian salad and Wasabi mayonnaise £8.50. Chicken liver parfait with fig chutney and grilled bread £6.50.

Main Courses

Roasted cod fillet with samphire mussels and saffron cream £18.50.

Duck breast with mash potatoes, broad beans, watercress salad and peppercorn sauce £17.50.

Sharing Dishes

Upon his return to the area, the chef set up the Fox & Hounds in Knossington, then moved on to the Marquess.

Other more recent changes, aside from the opportunity to enjoy an en-spec game of ‘Triv include a newly refurbished dining room with rough-sawn dining chairs upholstered in ticking fabric, plus some new dividers, to make the large restaurant cosier, painted in a brinjal hue. In recent years the chef has also created a second lounge at the front of the pub too, allowing guests to linger a bit longer, before or after their meal. Changes aside though, it’s business as usual in terms of the menu. A set lunch menu with three options per course weighs in at a reasonable £14.50 or £17.50 for two or three courses respectively. Sunday lunch is £21 or £26/head, and there’s a daytime menu with the ubiquitous gourmet burger plus a couple of super salads with healthy ingredients if you’re seeking something lighter and a bit more summery this month. Rejoice, though, at the innovative à la carte main menu, available during both daytime

and during service. Its seven starters, nine main courses and three sharing dishes will delight, whilst four desserts, homemade ice creams & sorbets and a selection of cheeses will round off a quality dining experience nicely. Our recommendations? Well, our roasted cod was lovely, but the meat and grill options are a particular highlight of the Marquess and we’ve yet to see anything emerging from the kitchen which failed to arouse our delight. The place has achieved that holiest of grails for any restaurant; consistency, and has always proved formidable in terms of the flavours and presentation of its dishes. Anything else? Umm, well there’s Fish & Chip Fridays, and steak night on Sunday. Ah, yes, and before I dab my mouth with a napkin and sign off, monophobia is an acute fear of being alone; the flea can jump 200 times its own height (probably more, if you surprise it by jumping out and shouting ‘boo’) whilst nutty slack is a cheap fuel made of coal nuts and dust. The Marquess of Exeter; feeding the belly, and the mind, too. n

Grilled rib of Derbyshire beef, skinny fries, bèarnaise sauce and green salad £55/for two.

Ham hock terrine, crispy mini-chorizo, Serrano ham, mini-Colwick cheese, celeriac remoulade, olives and sour dough £15.

Desserts

Cinnamon beignets with mixed berries and caramelised cream £6.25 Chocolate brownie with crème fraiche £6.25. NB: Featured dishes are subject to change.

n The Marquess of Exeter is based on Main St, Lyddington, Oakham LE15 9LT. Call 01572 822477 or see www.marquessexeter.co.uk. 57

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Events at The Marquess this May… LYDDINGTON FETE – SATURDAY 11TH MAY Visit Brian’s BBQ on the village green 2- 4pm Delicious burgers and lamb wraps!

ROYAL WEDDING – SATURDAY 19TH MAY Royal Wedding Party! From 10.30am Join us for a day of right, royal partying – eat, drink & be merry… Morning coﬀee / Lunch / Afternoon tea / Pimms & Fizz / Children’s bouncy castle

BANK HOLIDAY – SUNDAY 27TH MAY Bank holiday BBQ 2- 8pm Cooking up a storm for the long weekend!

52 Main Street, Lyddington, Rutland, 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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ALL NEW GIN

Wine of the Month

Two Bird Rhubarb Gin

Two Birds Spirits was founded in 2013, in the town of Market Harborough, Leicestershire. It all started with a love for great tasting gin, experimenting in the workshop for months, trying to develop the perfect drinking gin.

Tenuta di Castiglioni, Frescobaldi. Tuscany, Italy / £24.95 / 13% / Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernate Franc, Sangiovese “Our wine of the month comes from Italy this month.”1

Now, the finest botanicals have been carefully distilled to complement a superb infusion of English Rhubarb. This is Two Bird’s brand new flavoured gin. Drink with a good handful of ice and mixing with a premium tonic or a refreshing ginger ale. Garnish with a stick of Rhubarb. £37.95/70cl, 40%.

The Wine Cellar HARISH’S MONTHLY SUGGESTED TIPPLES INCLUDE FOUR LOVELY AND VERY DIFFERENT WINES, A DESSERT WINE FROM PROVENCE IN FRANCE, AND A POPULAR RHUBARB GIN... THREE OF A KIND: A RED, A WHITE AND A ROSÉ FOR EVERY OCCASION...

1. “Our red this month is the Malvasia Nera, Talò, Salento. The wine is an intense and complex bouquet of ripe red fruits combined with hints of spice. Flavours of blackberry jam and vanilla notes.” £12.95 / Malvasia Nera / 13%. 2. “Our white is a Chardonnay from the Raymond Vineyards in California. Bright aromas of citrus, green apple and tropical fruit are followed by notes of vanilla and honeysuckle. Crisp, with a beautiful minerality, tangy citrus notes and a touch of vanilla.” £19.95 / Chardonnay / 13.5%.

3. “The rosé is Organic Rose from Chateau Gabriel in Provence, France. This rosé really captures the red berry fruit of Provence, with apricot and floral nuances.” £14.95 / Grenache, Cinsault / 13.5%.

“A wine of brilliant clarity with bright fruit notes of cherry, redcurrant, strawberry and plum, layered with spicy hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, roast cocoa and a hint of hazelnut.” “The palate for this particular wine is warm, with balsamic, spicy notes, cherry and coffee flavours which are supported by a refreshing acidity and dense but elegant tannins. The drink is smooth and dry on the finish.” n

Dessert Wine

Gérard Bertrand, ‘Cross’ Vintage, Rivesaltes 2011, Languedoc “Choose Gérard Bertrand as your dessert wine this month. It comes with a splendid amber colour with brick-red tints.” “The nose reveals complex aromas of dried fruits, walnuts, currants, honey and a hint of spice. Exceptionally rich on the palate with notes of bitter oranges and wild apricots.” “An astonishing wine with an exceptional length and a praline aromas finish. A wonderful accompaniment to cured ham with melon, blue cheese or foie gras with figs.”

£24.95 / Grenache Noir / 75cl / Languedoc-Roussillon / 16%.

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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FOOD & DRINK

Asparagus Tart

with Rocket & New Potatoes...

Serves Eight. Preparation Time: 20 minutes. Cooking Time: One hour and 20 minutes. 350g shortcrust pastry plain flour, for dusting 250g Jersey Royals or other small new potatoes, cut into 5mm thick slices 230g local asparagus, trimmed & halved lengthways 50g wild rocket 50g finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano 3 medium eggs 300ml pot single cream

Tender asparagus, creamy new potatoes and peppery rocket – celebrate the best of mid-spring with this delicious tart! Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Roll the pastry on a lightly floured surface to the thickness of a £1 coin. Place a 23cm x 4cm loose-bottomed tart tin on a baking sheet and line with the pastry. Leave the edges overhanging, prick the base and chill for 15 minutes. Line the pastry case with parchment and baking beans or rice.

Blind bake for 25 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Remove the baking beans and paper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, until light golden.

Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in a large pan of salted boiling water for five minutes. Add the asparagus and rocket, then cover and cook for one minute. Drain and leave to steam dry for five minutes. Add to the pastry case and scatter over the cheese. Whisk the eggs and cream together until smooth, then pour into the tart case.

Bake for 35-40 minutes until just set. Cool for five minutes, carefully trim the excess pastry using a serrated knife. Serve warm or cold. n

Find thousands of recipes at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

The Country House ...for a Town Mouse!

Representing a splendid compromise between a country home that’s situated in the heart of town, The Old Workshop is a quirky property with lots of character and a practical layout! Words: Rob Davis.

I’m yet to meet anyone who doesn’t aspire to live in a really pretty traditional country house. The somewhat frustrating reality, though, is that we all need to be reasonably close to the amenities, facilities, civilisation, schools, delis and artisan bakeries we rely on to ensure we remain in the comfortable manner to which we’ve become accustomed. That’s precisely why this month’s featured property is a perfect compromise; a country house for a town mouse, a downsizer’s delight and a rural property right in the heart of civilisation!

The Old Workshop has a lovely elevated layout. Arranged over three floors, the Uppingham house comprises two reception rooms, plus a breakfast kitchen, three bedrooms, an en suite, plus a basement garage with an additional storage area, and a studio-office.

The upshot is a home with plenty of space, without too much of a footprint, and a dedicated place to work as well if you operate your business from home. What’s more, despite The Old Workshop’s >> 65

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>> in-town location, you’ll also find plenty of period features, from exposed brickwork to beams and the ubiquitous Aga in the kitchen.

Step through the elevated stable barn door and you’ll find yourself in a beautifully appointed kitchen with bespoke units painted in taupe, and timber toppers. Because of its first floor position you’ll find its nice and light, and with a butler sink and integrated dishwasher, the illusion of a traditionally appointed kitchen is maintained with appliances well hidden. There’s even a separate utility area for those thoroughly modern white goods. A dedicated dining room has vaulted ceilings, fireplace and exposed ironwork, whilst the larger L-shaped sitting room enjoys natural light on three sides - essentially facing south - as well as a light well down from the first floor providing even more natural light and a sense of space.

To the first floor there’s a large master bedroom with en suite and plenty of built-in storage, plus a skylight, whilst bedroom two has a vaulted ceiling and an additional first floor room provides an additional study, hobby room or space for a third bedroom.

Outdoors? Well, a hard-landscaped terrace is low-maintenance but still has space for a bistro set and plenty of pots for those who still want to keep their fingers green. For those downsizing from a larger estate, The Old Workshop is ideal; keep the character, but lose the work. If you’re a country mouse seeking the convenience of in-town living, it’s perhaps the perfect compromise! n 66

Above: The kitchen is situated on the first floor, and with large windows and its elevated position, that means plenty of natural light.

Below: Upstairs there are three bedrooms, with an en suite to the master. Bottom: The dining room has a light well and elevated ceilings.

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ON THE MARKET THE OLD WORKSHOP Location: Uppingham; Oakham 11 minutes; Stamford 22 minutes. Style: Former workshop with in-town location & period features. Bedrooms: Two or three, with en suite and wealth of storage to master bedroom. Receptions: Two, currently arranged as living room and dining room, plus dining kitchen. Other Features: Workshop and garage with plumbing in place for conversion to annexe.

Estate Agent: James Sellicks, Catmos St., Oakham, LE15 6HW. 01572 724437; jamessellicks.com. Guide Price: ÂŁ600,000.

Above: The L-shaped living room has large windows and light wells.

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Zoffany Paint: 160 different

shades available at Sarah Harding Interiors, £5/sample, £35-£89. Shown here is Lazuli, new for 2018.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Wallflowers

Stoneware from Emma Bridgewater, two cup teapot £39.95; mugs £119.95/lg; £14.95/sm; milk bottle £14.95/three; tray £5.

Ceramic Lamp

Jette design in cornflower and metallic teal, £175 including neutral shade.

Washbags

By Designers Guild, £27.50/XL; £23.50/large; £18.50/regular.

Recycled Glass Vases

Dog Cushions

Large round £38; large £18; medium £15.50, small bottles £20/set of three.

Uppingham interiors retailer Sarah Harding has everything you need to create a beautiful home, from bespoke furniture to fabrics, wallcoverings and finishing touches...

Vintage herringbone with waterproof back, 145cm x 183cm, £99.

SARAH’S SUMMER HOMES

Branch D’Olive

Travel pack of toiletries £20; room spray and diffuser set £45; body scrub and body cream £25.

Picnic Blanket

Special Occasion Cards 30 different designs including the three birthday designs shown here £3.25/ea

Sarah Harding provides interior design and bespoke furniture in Rutland, along with a lovely selection of gifts and accessories. Visit 6 Market Place, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9QH, call 01572 823389 or see www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

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How do you sleep at night?

Well, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be sleeping soundly, after a visit to The Deeping Bed Shop. We are a local independent bed shop based in Market Deeping. With over 30 years experience, we have expert advice and knowledge to share with all of our customers...

48 High St, Market Deeping, Peterborough, PE6 8EB

01778 347961

www.thedeepingbedshop.co.uk

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INTERIORS for your Lifestyle Heather and Alan Mowat founded their interiors, design and lifestyle studio in 2009, and work hard to bring everything from bespoke furnishings to finishing touches to those in Stamford and Rutland...

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Handmade, bespoke furniture and soft furnishings, plus paint & wallpaper, and the finishing touches you need to create a truly unique home. That’s just what Heather and Alan Mowat provide from their Stamford design studio, H-Works.

The husband and wife team initially provided bespoke furnishings when they began trading in 2009, but have evolved to offer a design and consultation service for clients that’s both collaborative and highly personal.

“We meet with our clients and really try to understand not just their taste in furnishings, but their lifestyle - whether they have children, dogs - what interests, ideas and values they have too,” says Heather. “As well as the products that we offer - bespoke curtains and blinds, custom-made chairs, or the re-upholstering of existing chairs and sofas -

we also provide the kind of service you’d expect from a family-run business which really understands its clients.”

DESIGNS WE LOVE

The business has a huge library of fabrics and wallcoverings with sample books from names like Colefax & Fowler, Casamance, O&L, Designers Guild and Linwood, and H-Works is a stockist of Little Greene Paints. The husband and wife team works hard to source existing furniture to ‘upcycle’ and can source furnishings for clients too.

Along with finishing touches like lighting, mirrors and accessories, the design studio provides everything from products to advice to really make your home unique.

n For more information, H-Works is located on Stamford Walk, Stamford PE9 2JE. Call 01780 754605 or visit www.hworksdesign.co.uk.

Above: Nesting side tables, £495/set.

Top/Right: Joe Cocoon ‘Lloyd Loom’ chair, indoor or outdoor use, £595/with cushion. Right: Heathfield hand blown lamp with gold leaf frit and silk shade £495.

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Special Spring Offer

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We provide free advice, designs and a competitive, no obligation quotation...

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Your local appointed Sheraton dealer.

• 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

Come see our kitchens on display in our extensive showroom

ADDITIONAL KITCHEN DESIGNER REQUIRED We are seeking an additional kitchen designer to join our team, to apply please contact The Maltings Barnack Road, Stamford. 01780 755855

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

T: 01780 756514 or 755855

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Open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. Sat, 9am-3pm, closed all day Sunday

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The New Window Company

The New Window Company’s modern products will still suit the style of your traditional property, but without the rattle and draft you’ll get from usual sash windows. Managing Director Roy Wakeman explains more... Home ownership is still very much high on the agenda for most of us when it comes to improving our lifestyles, we spend much of our life living in and caring for our homes. It is normally the biggest single asset anyone of us will ever own, and what’s more over time it also provides tax efficient capital gains. It’s not surprising then when it comes to spending some of our income it goes into either improving our existing homes or into a move to another home, the latter driven by moving up in size as our families grow or downsizing as families flee the nest. We can also move due to job changes or migration.

Whatever the motivation, high on our list are the fixtures, fittings and other key parts of the house that needs our attention. No so more important than the windows and doors.

The fenestration of any house is all important and history has not only proven this, but the styles of the windows and doors often belong to Elizabethan, Georgian and Edwardian periods for example.

When refurbishment or replacement is required, whatever the style, these areas are so critical to the heritage of our nation that it comes under the jurisdiction of the building control and planning authorities. They can

Words: Roy Wakeman OBE.

literally stop the wrong design of a window or door being fitted to an existing house.

So, it is always best that if you live in a listed house or even in a conservation area you should consult with your local planning office and talk to the building control officer responsible. One of the key issues today and of concern to all involved is the question of double glazing. Should the benefits of double glazing be enjoyed by owners of listed buildings or not.

We say, that given the benefits of double glazing in reduced heating costs, improved sound insulation and when special glasses are specified solar gains made, they should. After all modern designs in whatever material can now be made to replicate the exact style of the original. Available now are certificated and proven methods of slim glazing units with substantial guarantees.

“The New Window Company offer a full installation service for all of their products...”

These can provide added benefits and when seen from a short distance is unrecognizable from single glazing of the period, this is particularly true for sliding sash windows.

Now we can move away from sash windows that rattle and are drafty in windy conditions and replace with New Window Company modern products. We can as a result feel safe and secure and enjoy the warmth of our houses whatever the external conditions.

The New Window Company can supply windows and doors in a variety of materials. We have showrooms at our office and showroom in Frieston Heath, Caythorpe, Grantham where you can touch and feel the full working models right across our range. There’s a full installation service backed by a deposit guarantee insurance scheme and carried out by fully trained direct employees.

As we approach the new spring and summer now is the time to inspect all your windows, wash them down and clean out the insects and other debris. If you feel you need to improve or replace your windows and doors now, call to discuss for installation in the autumn ahead of next winter. n For more information call 01400 272538 or visit www.new-window.co.uk.

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OUTDOORS

Planting Beautiful Gardens

May is the fairest month of all for gardens; it’s a glorious time, when dormant plants poke through the soil and the trees begin to unfurl their delicate leaves. When graceful tulips and bobbing bluebells bask in their full glory and birdsong fills the still air on crisp, cool mornings...

This month is definitely Soo Spector’s favourite month of the year. For this award winning, Rutland-based garden designer the longer, warmer days present an opportunity to help clients turn neglected corners into waves of vibrant colour and transform problem patches into areas of outstanding garden beauty. For Soo, May is also about making garden plans rather than rushing into planting.

Plan now, plant later

Soo is a firm believer in a longer term approach to gardens. Plan in May, plant in Autumn and enjoy the fruits of your labours with beautiful autumnal colour, winter structure, spring excitement and dazzling summer borders, year after year, for as long as you live there.

It doesn’t matter if you have a compact concrete patio, a parcel of perfect lawn or a vast and sprawling vista to play with - good planning will make the most of the space. Soo plans gardens which achieve unity, harmony and scale and which give a year-round palette of colour and interest. Plant once, she says, then enjoy again and again! What makes a successful design?

“Have you ever thought about why you like some gardens?” she asks. “Of course, a lot comes down to personal taste, but the basis is about the way you are able to connect with the design. Two of the most important features of a garden that work are unity and scale. The skill is to make the appearance of a garden - from any angle - easy on the eye… giving a sense of ease and pleasure as you look around the garden.” 88

“A PROFESSIONAL GARDEN DESIGNER’S SKILL IS TO MAKE THE APPEARANCE OF A GARDEN, FROM ANY ANGLE, EASY ON THE EYE…” Main: Soo Spector Garden Design offers a bespoke service to deliver the garden of your dreams. A place to sit and contemplate or immerse yourself in an ever-changing array of colours and shapes. Pictured are recent gardens designed by Soo.

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GARDEN

MAY IN THE Words: Soo Spector.

Take Care of your Lawn

For neat lawns, ensure your mower blades are sharp and your machine is serviced. Set the blades relatively high for the first cut, then lower them to the desired height to ensure lofty lawns don’t choke up your mower deck. May is really the last chance to sow new grass seed until the cooler autumn.

Prepare to Prune

Early-flowering shrubs should be pruned and neatened up. Secateurs are a ‘get what you pay for’ product, so invest in a quality pair, wipe detritus from their blades and they’ll last you for years.

It’s Off to Work You Sow

“Spend and save...”

But if we all have an idea of our own taste in gardens, why would we need a garden designer? For Soo, there are three very good reasons. First, that working with an expert in garden design reduces the stress and hassle of the design and planning and increases the enjoyment when it’s done. Secondly, a beautifully presented, welldesigned garden will increase the value of your most important asset – your home... and finally, you’ll save money.

“Not only will you save time making plans, dealing with any contractors and carrying out work, but garden designers source plants from reputable plant nurseries which are cheaper than buying plants at retail prices. And with a long term approach, you buy fewer plants and get more value from them.”

Continue to plant perennials and summer flowering bulbs, as well as vegetables and herbs. Choose foxglove plants with strong leaf growth to have beautiful striking foxgloves for height in your borders. Remember that Foxgloves only flower in their second year of life.

“Each garden is designed to your requirements and budget. That means providing options from a light makeover to a full design and garden build. We cater for all garden styles from family, contemporary and cottage to traditional, formal, and naturalistic.” “We relish the challenge of everything from single beds or courtyards to large gardens. And when we’re finished you can call on us for after care garden maintenance when required.” Hopefully May will bring sunshine and warmth to Rutland. And you can sit outside and contemplate the possibilities in your little corner of England! n Soo Spector provides bespoke garden design across Rutland, Stamford and Leicestershire, for a free, no obligation consultation, call 07545 007323 or view her portfolio at www.soospectorgardens.co.uk.

Summer, All Tied Up

Tie up young sweet peas, climbing and rambling roses and lavender late flowering clematis to secure them as they continue to grow.

Container Gardening

Ensure you spread a few containers and pots around your garden or terrace... upcycle old garden ephemera or invest in mismatched pots.

Help Your Summer Flowers

Scatter granular plant food around the base of your growing summer plants to help them perform at their best in the coming months. Follow the dosage as advised on the pack.

Beware those Late Frosts

Keep your small annual and tender plants protected from the cold air until the danger of frosts has passed. n

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Together we can make your garden the favourite room in your home....

l Affordable garden design and delivery, fully planted up l We design in any space from small beds and courtyards through to large gardens l Qualified experienced team focussing on helping you to achieve your dream garden Call for a totally FREE, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no-obligationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chat and site visit: 07545 007323 www.soospectorgardens.co.uk Email Soo via soo@soospectorgardens.co.uk or see our work on Facebook and Instagram...

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1 2

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5 10

Outdoor LIVING Bring warmth, light and comfort to your al fresco summer with these great ideas from Gates Garden Centre...

Featured products available from Gates Garden Centre, Somerby Rd, Cold Overton, Oakham LE15 7QB, 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. n

1. Square casual dining set with adjustable height and seasonproof cushions RRP £2,229, Gates price £1,599.

2. No more burnt burgers! Weber Summit barbecue with six burners, £3,299; also shown Weber iGrill smartphone connected thermometer notifies you when your food is cooked for perfect results £59.99. 3. Gas firebowl on plnth 73cm £329.99.

4. Square side post parasol inc base and cover RRP £568, Gates price £429. 5. Double cocoon reading seat RRP £669, Gates price £499.

6. Dante pyramid flame patio heater £399.

7. Illuminated letters for indoor/outdoor use, 20cm tall, £9.99/ea; ‘home’ word £19.99.

8. Reclining set with marine grade faux leather cushions, coffee table and footstools £999. 9. Rosedale timber bird table 2.1m tall £169.99. 10. Square casual dining set with ceramic table top and firepit RRP £2,814, Gates price £1,999.

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Royal Celebrations at

ROCKINGHAM This year’s Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International Horse Trials has much to celebrate as plans are afoot to introduce a Royal Wedding theme. Hilary Manners previews this year’s event, which takes place from 18th - 20th May at the 11th century home of the Saunders Watson family…

The clock is ticking as this year’s Rockingham International Horse Trials draws ever closer and work, both on the ground and in the office, is picking up pace. Volunteers are being allocated roles, stables have been ordered, tentage confirmed and trade stand 98

bookings finalised, while local hotels, pubs and restaurants are also looking forward to the annual surge in business. Rockingham Castle, nestled on a hillside with breathtaking views across the Welland Valley, is the perfect location for an entertaining day out with the

family. Visitors return year after year to enjoy high class sport, children’s activities and a spot of shopping – even the family dog is catered for with have-a-go dog agility.

Visitors can also buy everything from leather goods to ladies clothing, fine art photography to fudge – and of course title sponsor Fairfax & Favor’s range of shoes, boots and bags. Numerous food outlets offer both snacks and meals on the day and delicious goodies to take home with you, both savoury and sweet treats. The Horse Trials is a firm favourite in the calendar of many of the best event riders in the world. Olympic, World and European medal winners bring their up and coming stars of the future to contest both the eventing classes and the prestigious Burghley Young Event Horse qualifiers.

An additional draw is the Loomes Challenge. Each year Official Timekeeper, Robert Loomes & Co of Stamford, presents a

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Fairfax & Favor Rockingham Horse Trials 2018

Facts & Figures

817 bacon butties are eaten by the army of Volunteers. 850 pints of beer will be sold at the Bar. 130 Air Cadets from Corby and Kettering will man the arena parties and course crossings. 8,000 meters of string will be used to mark the cross country course. 663 rosettes will be won. 800 dressage tests will be ridden. 70,800 litres of water are used on the event site every year.

The list of last year's winners reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of eventing. British Eventing leading points winner and 2017 Burghley winner Oliver Townend not only won a class, he also claimed the Loomes watch, while 2017 Badminton winner Andrew Nicholson, past European silver medallist and local girl Piggy French, and Olympians William Fox-Pitt, Tim Price and Kitty King all claimed at least one top spot. Main: Rockingham Horse Trials will take place from 18th-20th May.

handmade English watch worth over £7,500 to a rider who judges his cross country round to perfection, coming through the finish flags on the ‘optimum time.’ To date this has gone home on the wrist of Irish, Kiwi, Australian and British men. Will 2018 produce the first female winner? At the weekend the event riders are joined by both Pony and Riding Club teams, and Arena Eventing competitors – these classes are always hard fought and entertaining to watch.

Additionally there will be a royal wedding themed fence and decorations and, should the wedding be televised, screens will be showing the coverage from Windsor in the bar, perfect for toasting the happy couple.

In addition to all of the equestrian action, Home Start's Corby branch will be hosting a craft tent, running hobby horse obstacle races and craft opportunites for children to enjoy. Home Start is one of the UK’s leading family support charities, sending out trained

Above: The trials take place at the 11th century Rockingham Castle.

volunteers to visit families in their own homes, providing tailored practical and emotional support to help families build confidence, independence and community connections. Built on the instruction of William the Conqueror, Rockingham Castle is one of only a very few homes that have been continuously occupied for nearly 950 years. It was Henry VIII who granted the Castle to Edward Watson, ancestor of the present owner. Edward converted the medieval fortress into a comfortable Tudor house. It has been home to the Saunders Watson family for 450 years.

n New title sponsor Fairfax & Favor will be familiar to past Rockingham International visitors, the company having taken a trade stand for several years. Part of Fairfax & Favor’s plans for this year include a ‘Design a Cross Country Fence’ Competition; visitors will be able to view the winning entry once the cross country action gets underway.

WHEN AND WHERE? Rockingham Horse Trials Friday: Dressage, showjumping and cross country. Burghley Young Event Horse qualifiers.

Saturday: Dressage, showjumping and cross country. Pony Club showjumping. Sunday: Dressage, showjumping and cross country. Arena Eventing. Riding Club showjumping.

The horse trials takes place over the weekend of the 18th - 20th May 2018, in the Park at Rockingham Castle, LE16 8XJ. Top class sport, including many of the best event riders in the world. Tickets start at £10 for adults and £3 for children six-16 years old. Weekend family tickets can be bought in advance for £45. 10% discount available for advance tickets bought on line. Car parking is free. For more information on all aspects of the Event visit www.rockinghamcastle horsetrials.com, and you can find them on Twitter @rockinghamLIVE!

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Wedding Flowers

Finding Your Florist Find a local florist on www.UKbride.co.uk, or at www.interflora.co.uk, which represents 1,300 expert florists nationally.

Your wedding are not only naturally beautiful, they’re an incredibly versatile resource for decorating the church, reception, your wedding breakfast tables and of course, for carrying through Images: Interflora. your colour scheme to bouquets and buttonholes... Don’t underestimate flower power when it comes to implementing your chosen wedding theme. From bridal bouquets to church arrangements and buttonholes, we all expect to see a degree of fancy floristry at a wedding, but by including flowers on your chair covers and tables, for example, you’ll be able to really style your wedding and create beautiful props for your formal photos too. Top: Tall table arrangements give height in old venues with lofty ceilings, and ensure guests on opposite sides of a table

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can still see one another. Top Right: Use flowers to decorate your cake; consider single colour and ombre colour schemes.

Seek out a really good independent florist and budget between £500 and £1,500 for their skills. Approach them with an idea of your colour scheme, the date of your wedding and the style you’re seeking, taking any colour swatches with you.

Generally, all flowers are available all year round, but those which are native and in season - i.e.: those which won’t need to be imported - will prove the best value. Combine expensive ‘best’ flowers with filler foliage, and cheaper blooms to achieve both bulk and luxury carrying though your colour scheme. n

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- FLOWERS -

THROUGH THE

SEASONS

Top: Trailing bridal bouquets look dramatic. Consider floral ‘frames’ for photos, or around doorways and table plans. Top/Right: Don’t dismiss quirky foliage such as wheat, shown here, for a rustic look... or thistles for winter weddings.

Above: This blue and white arrangement has been created with irises and peonies. Hand-tied arrangements can look loose and relaxed, or tighter and more formal. Left: Don’t forget buttonholes for the groomsmen. Ideas and further wedding inspiration at Interflora.

Early Spring: Use bowls of hyacinths or primula on your tables, violets and even cheaper, abundantly available flowers like narcissi. Mid-Late Spring: Lily of the valley, lilacs, anemones, dicentra and freesias, plus irises and tulips. Summer: Carnations are abundant and inexpensive, as are peonies. Lavender is exquisite for rustic weddings, whilst phlox is a useful native flower. Roses are plentiful and versatile, but can be expensive, whilst gypsophila is a versatile filler flower for bulking out your posies and arrangements. Hydrangeas look bulky and are a great filler flower, whilst zinnia will look good as part of contemporary table centrepieces. Autumn: Calla lilies are great for those seeking an autumn colour palette, dahlias produce large dramatic flower heads. Sunflowers may be available in late summer/early autumn, and gerbera will be available too. Winter: Choose roses in pure crystal white or vermillion red, and amaryllis too. Don’t underestimate the potential for the use of bright red berries and consider narcissus paper white too. White lilies make a great winter flower for weddings, as do gardenia and filler stems like gypsophila and hypericum. n

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1. TOM FORD’S EYECATCHING GLITTER... This dual-tiered colour from Tom Ford pairs two coveted formulas in one to create a lustrous and sexy summertime eye. The ultra-pigmented, metallic cream shadow glides onto lids with a rich, molten glow and the sparkling celestial powder intensifies the look with alluring shimmer, £48.

Worth More Than Gold... 2. Caviar Eye Liner

Inspired by Laura Mercier’s cult classic Caviar Eye Liner, Caviar Stick Eye Colour offers a new technique to enhance the smoky eye look. In a range of shades, this creamy formula provides endless options for a flawless smoky eye, £23.

3. Golden Head to Toe

Drawing on years of specialist knowledge, London’s Hand and Foot Spa has created a series of nail polishes in gold. Take your colour from day to night with the stroke of The Effects Polish which can be applied after the colour and before the top coat, £15.

4. Golden Pearls

Guerlain’s holiday collections are eagerly-awaited, and with limited-edition colours, exquisite packaging and dazzling, daring shades it’s easy to see why. The iconic Météorites aren’t exempt from the makeover, £44.

5. Bronzed in Too Faced Too Faced’s bestselling Chocolate Soleil Bronzer has now gone gold. This shimmering powder is infused with real flecks of gold and real cocoa powder to impart Indulgent shine and a moreish chocolate scent. Ideal for use on both face and body, it provides metallic shadow on the areas you want to create depth such as your cheek and collar bones. For the ultimate sculpted radiance, team with the Diamond Highlighter, £25.

n All our beauty products are available from high quality independent stockists unless otherwise stated, prices are RRP. Visit each makeup brand’s website for more information on local stockists. 107

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

See the Bigger Picture

New ground-breaking technology at Simmons Optometrists could change lives and not just by detecting alterations in eyesight… It’s the multi award-winning practice in Burley Road, Oakham, which has a passion for being at the forefront of optics. Simmons has recently upgraded its Optomap system to the Daytona Plus with autofluorescence. The business is one of only 50 opticians in the country to offer this revolutionary new product.

The state-of-the-art equipment scans and produces images of the retina that are as unique as your fingerprint. As well as detecting eye diseases, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, it can also reveal early signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and even cancer. Director and optometrist James Alexander, who runs the practice with his wife Manjula explains: “What makes the Optomap unique is that it captures up to 80 per cent of the retina in one high resolution panoramic image. “This is massive when compared with the routine methods that only reveal a fraction of the retina at any one time, less than 10 per cent, and even standard retinal photography offered in most opticians that can only show between 10 and 15 per cent.”

It is the difference between looking into a room through a keyhole or through an open set of double doors. The view is very comprehensive and the capability of seeing the far peripheral areas of the retina is invaluable. A common complaint is ‘flashes and floaters’ and the Optomap helps to rule out the possibility of a retinal tear or detachment which is typically found in the peripheral retina. Many eye and general health problems can develop without you noticing any symptoms and spotting them early is critical to starting treatment promptly.

In addition, the new Daytona Plus can perform a medical imaging technique called autofluorescence. “This is really exciting stuff and completes the picture for us,” 110

Words & Pictures: Megan Allen.

doesn’t require any eye drops to dilate the pupil which means they can drive home.” Simmons has built its reputation since 1974 on outstanding customer service and clinical excellence. The Daytona Plus is one of several services that they offer that are unique to the area. At the end of last year, they were the first to introduce MiSight 1-Day contact lenses for children which have been proven to slow down the progress of myopia and have successfully fitted many children since.

James added. “The ultra-widefield images allow us to view the structure of the eye in amazing detail, while autofluorescence shows how well the retina is working and whether it is currently showing any signs of stress. These signs often appear before actual structural damage can be seen. Autofluorescence is essentially an early warning system as it can expose certain conditions that are invisible to the colour imaging. An example of this is being able to catch macular degeneration early on.” By capturing regular images of the retina, the optometrists at Simmons can look for any changes that occur over time and the high-definition makes detecting even the subtlest changes much easier than before.

Combining their own expertise and using specialist software, the optometrists at Simmons are able to review the images together with the patient and discuss any findings, making informed decisions about the patient’s eye health and overall wellbeing.

“There is real wow factor when a patient first sees what the back of their eyes looks like and the feedback we receive is that they really appreciate both the peace of mind they get and the greater understanding of what we are looking for in an eye test,” James explained. “Having an Optomap retinal scan is easy for patients as it takes minutes to to perform, is painless and

James said: “We’ve tried a number of methods to slow down myopia, which is the professional term for short-sightedness, in children at the practice, so when we heard about MiSight and the incredible results of their trials, we were very excited to get involved with it as early as possible. “Some children are more at risk of becoming progressively more short-sighted than others. Their eyes become longer than those who are not short-sighted. While glasses and contact lenses can correct the condition, until now they have been unable to slow down it’s rate of progression. “The MiSight 1-Day is the first soft contact lens shown to reduce myopia progression in children by 59 per cent on average, which is really significant.”

Again, myopia is something that can be picked up on with regular eye tests and can be helped by controlling lifestyle factors. James added: “Our advice is for children to spend as much time outside as possible, 90 minutes should be the minimum, to restrict the amount of close work out of school hours to no more than two hours a day and to give the eyes regular breaks when prolonged close work is necessary. Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look away about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds.” n For more information about Simmons Optometrists and the services they offer, visit www.simmonsoptometrists.co.uk or call 01572 756434.

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SUMMER IS NEARLY HERE...!

Tackle head on your concerns; they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go away on their own and start your journey to a great skin and body!

Aesthetician, Lisa Claypole, has a range of treatments designed to work harder and produce more dramatic results than spa or traditional beauty treatments. Lisa established Elysia Health and Beauty 16 years ago and she is based in the beautiful village of Tansor, just 2 miles from Oundle and a 20-minute drive from Stamford and Oakham.

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RETIREMENT

A GOLDEN MOMENT

There was a golden moment in Oakham recently, as Olympic legend, Dame Mary Peters opened McCarthy & Stone’s luxurious new retirement complex...

Oakham retirees were joined by an Olympic sporting legend earlier this week, when Dame Mary Peters marked the opening of McCarthy and Stone’s new Retirement Living complex, Lonsdale Park. Dame Mary, who won the women’s pentathlon gold medal at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, was joined by staff, homeowners and their relatives to perform

a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the development on Barleythorpe Road. Dame Mary also delivered a talk on her sporting past, before stopping for a bite to eat and to chat. “I was delighted to be invited to Oakham for the opening of Lonsdale Park. It was an absolute pleasure to be able to chat to homeowners there,

reminisce about the good old days and share my gold medal with them. I was so inspired by some of their stories; and I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the ribbon-cutting and opening celebrations of what is truly a remarkable development.” The celebration at Lonsdale Park was also a great opportunity for retirees in Oakham to have a guided tour of the development, and to see for themselves how they could enjoy their retirement in a quality, low maintenance apartment. Cheryl Bissett, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for McCarthy and Stone, commented: “We were thrilled to welcome Dame Mary Peters, as well as so many people from the local area, to celebrate the opening of Lonsdale Park and give it the golden treatment it deserves.

“We are committed to delivering an exceptional lifestyle and, as such, the development enjoys a prime location with

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Homeowners at Lonsdale Park will also be well serviced by excellent rail links to neighbouring cities of Leicester, Peterborough and Cambridge.

access to a superb array of local amenities, and the highest specification fixtures and finishes throughout.”

Now over 60 percent sold, Lonsdale Park consists of 43 stunning one and two bedroom apartments aimed exclusively at the over-60s. Facilities include a homeowners’ lounge, ideal for socialising with friends; beautifully landscaped gardens; an on-site car park; and a convenient guest suite, should homeowners have friends or relatives to stay. A House Manager takes care of the smooth-running of the development; while a security entrance system and 24-hour emergency call points provide added peace-of-mind for homeowners.

Oakham is located in the heart of the county of Rutland, an area that was recently voted as the ‘best rural place to live in Britain’ by the Daily Telegraph. An abundance of green parks and fields presents a stunning backdrop for a relaxing

Prices at Lonsdale Park currently start from £189,950 for a one bedroom apartment and £299,950 for a two bedroom apartment.

“More than nine out of ten would recommend McCarthy and Stone to a friend...” retirement; and future homeowners at Lonsdale Park will be able to benefit from a range of essential amenities within easy reach of the development, including shopping, restaurants, Post Office and medical facilities.

More than nine out of ten customers would recommend McCarthy and Stone to a friend, ensuring it has received the full Five Star award for customer satisfaction from the Home Builders Federation for 12 years’ running.

McCarthy and Stone is the only UK housebuilder of any size or type to achieve this accolade for 12 years, which is every year the awards have been run. n For more information about Retirement Living at Lonsdale Park, please call the sales team on 0800 310 0384 or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/lonsdalepark.

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The 2018 Good & New Sale:

Weathering the Storm

After a long build up and a tremendous amount of work from over 60 volunteers, The For Rutland In Rutland ‘Good and New’ Clothes Sale - sponsored by Hegarty Solicitors LLP - was strongly supported, despite the awful weather. At the opening of the sale, Tim and Stefa Hart, owners of Hambleton Hall, were presented with a specimen ‘Hart’ tree to plant in

Hambleton Hall’s beautifully landscaped gardens, in recognition of the overwhelmingly generous support they have given over many years to help ensure the sale’s success. Hambleton Hall have for years provided Champagne and canapés at the First Night Sale, which always ensures that the evening is a little more special. The sale comes together every year as a result of an amazing

collaboration between For Rutland’s volunteers and supporters, and key sponsors, like Hegarty Solicitors LLP and local businesses such as Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, Hambleton Hall, Ron Grant Removals, John Porter Dry Cleaning, Travis Perkins, Quoin Print and Cavells. The charity provides free, confidential, non-medical help, advice and support. n See www.forrutlandinrutland.org.uk.

Feature your event in our magazine for free! 118

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

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Call 01529 469977 to book a photographer! Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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MOTORS

007 in Soft Top

HEAVEN Aston Martin’s DB11 now has a soft top stablemate, a convertible or ‘Volante’ version of its flagship GT. James Bond and other aspiring spooks will be in soft top heaven...

Aston Martin DB11 Volante 4.0V8, on sale April 2018 £159,900

James Bond. What a poser. And yet, we gentlemen would all like to be just like him; tough, gritty, cultured, magnetic of charm and equipped with the latest gadgets. But there’s a problem. Bond’s current motor is the DB11, the production version of the DB10-badged prototype - which was never actually on sale but was produced by Aston Martin both for the film and as a teaser for its flagship DB9 replacement.

The DB11 is a fine car. More than fine. It’s beautiful, fast and more luxurious than its predecessors. The thing is, it was also born as a coupé, and if you want to show off - really show off - it needed to have its roof cut off, so everyone can see you as you cruise around in what is arguably the sexiest GT in its class.

And so; ‘voila!’ or rather, ‘Volante!’ because that’s how the new soft top version of the DB11 will be badged when it reaches showrooms, just as Pride goes to press. >> 121

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Desirable Drop-Tops for Summer Touring...

Mercedes-AMG S-Class Convertible S63, £140,610: The closest competitor to the DB11 from Mercedes is the AMG-tuned S63, with the same V8 engine as the Aston Martin. Like the coupé version of the DB11, the Mercedes is also available with a V12, but don’t bother. There’s enough performance to spare from this V8, with a limited 155mph top speed and 60mph reached in 4.2 seconds. Unlike the DB11, the Mercedes is a four seater, and comes loaded with standard equipment. It also has a truly cosseting cabin. n

Porsche 911 Turbo S Convertible, £156,381: Porsche’s 911 comes in a variety of confusing permutations... Carerra, GT, Targa, convertible, S, Turbo, etc etc., but a DB11 budget also puts a range-topping Turbo S 911 on the menu, with a 3.8 litre six-cylinder engine. Standard equipment isn’t as generous, and it’s a two seater, but 60mph is reached and breached in a light-speed 3.0 seconds flat, with 205mph possible on a track day. Porsche’s handling is unsurpassed, and the 911’s evolutionary style makes it a true modern classic. n

>> Despite being climatically challenged, the UK is actually the biggest market in Europe for the sale of convertibles.

There’s something perverse about the country with arguably the rainiest, greyest climate loving open top motoring, but I suppose we are the ones with the clichéd cultural preoccupation with the weather. Anyway, more of an issue than the lack of sunshine is the £15,000 premium you’ll pay for a lack of roof over a coupé model. Range Rover Evoque HSE Dynamic Convertible 2.0 £55,585: OK, so here’s a curve ball. If you’re budgeting £159,000 for a DB11 convertible, how about purchasing an Evoque convertible and using the remaining £100k to purchase a coupé version of Aston Martin’s Vantage, with the same 4.0V8 engine, instead? Land Rover’s drop-top 4x4 has divided options, but we love it. Chunky, fun and well-equipped in HSE Dynamic trim, you’ve a 4x4 for winter, a soft top for summer, and an Aston Martin for your daily commute! n

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Nonetheless if a ruffled pompadour and the odd fly in the teeth is your thing, you can dispense with the eight layered electrically operated fabric roof and enjoy the stiffening and chassis tweaks that Aston Martin have

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The V12 is overkill; Aston’s fettling with the Mercedes-sourced V8 is a better option. It’s refined with a good spread of torque... employed to ensure your wind in-the-hair experience is unburdened by the shimmying traditionally associated with conversion from coupé to convertible.

The Volante has Aston Martin’s Mercedes AMG-sourced 4.0V8, rather than its own in house V12, and there are no plans for the latter to be dropped into the soft top at all.

That’s no bad thing, because the V12 is an overkill. The V8 is actually better; lighter, with a good spread of torque, better economy

and damn near identical performance figures, which, incidentally, are best summed up as equally capable of warp speed performance or refined A-road cruising. Not withstanding stunning looks, handling, and performance, the DB11 has also undergone a quantum leap in its interior. There’s a modern infotainment system, more standard kit and better materials than ever, plus near-infinite ways to customise what’s arguably one of this summer’s most desirable drop top GTs. n

ASTON MARTIN DB11 VOLANTE Price: £159,000. Engine: 4.0V8, 675nm/503hp. Drivetrain: Eight speed auto gearbox, rear wheel drive. Performance: 0-60mph 4.1 seconds; 187mph top speed. Economy: 28.3mpg combined. Equipment: Electric roof, seats, climate, cruise, parking sensors and camera, sat nav. n 123

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MOTORS

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

ROLLS ROYCE

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY? ROLLS ROYCE HOPES SO... As Rolls Royce prepares to release its flagship 4x4, the Cullinan, for an anticipated £250,000, the firm has released a couple of teaser images of its Viewing Suite. The seats are automatically deployed from the boot at the touch of a button and provide two seats plus what the firm is calling with no sense of shame - a ‘cocktail table.’ The seats are covered by the tailgate and form the ideal vantage point from which to watch polo, or point-to-point... presumably whilst one enjoys a Mojito or a Peach Bellini? n DASH CAMS

DASH CAMS INCREASE IN POPULARITY AS MOTORISTS GUARD AGAINST INSURANCE FRAUD It’s estimated that there are now 3,000,000 dash cams in the UK. Mounted to your window, the units record video of the front or rear of your car, saving footage to a memory card and overwriting the oldest footage. Recorded material can be used to guard against crash-forcash insurance scams and to report dangerous drivers. The units cost from £25 to £100 and some have night vision systems too. They could reduce your insurance premiums by up to 10%. Material is admissable as evidence and may be used in court. n

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Perfectly Formed

WANT AN EXECUTIVE CAR THAT’S EASY AROUND TOWN? MERCEDES IS A-OK!

MERCEDES A big car in a compact body style; that’s the concept behind Mercedes’s new A-Class range. The car will feature engines from 1.4 litres in size, to 2.0, with a 1.5 diesel engine from launch. Plug-in and hybrid variants will launch later, and the car is expected to cost from £25,000, topping out with a turbocharged flagship 2.0 AMG performance model.

The new A-Class features a larger cabin, larger boot and plenty of room for passengers, plus technology that has filtered down from the company’s S-Class limo, such as Distronic autonomous driving technology and latest generation adaptive cruise. Its new twin LCD screens replace conventional speedo and the car’s rev counter dials. n www.mercedes-benz.co.uk

Estate of the Art Volvo... VOLVO’S NEW V60 HAS BEEN INFUSED WITH V90’S DNA

Oversized, over the top and over here. Ford F150 reaches the UK FORD Farmers seeking a 4x4 that’s a little more, um, rugged, than Toyota’s Hilux and Nissan’s Navara will express delight at the arrival of Ford’s US pick-up the F150 in the UK, at £36,000. The car is ludicrously oversized, hardly subtle and not exactly frugal, with a 3.5 litre V6 engine that Ford claims will deliver 16mpg. Frighteningly, the pick-up all 5.7 metres of it - will reach 60mph in five seconds and 135mph flat out, though probably not off road, where its low range gears and nobbly tyres will help to surmount - or simply flatten - anything that stands in its way! n

VOLVO Volvo can do no wrong right now. Its XC90 4x4 was met with wild reviews, and the estate version, badged V90, was just as warmly received. This month the V60 will appear in showrooms, an estate car designed to go head-to-head with the Mercedes C-Class, BMW 3-Series and Audi A4. It represents an important car as Volvo gains even more credibility to compete with top German marques. Yet Volvo’s minimalist Scandinavian-inspired cabin proves that the Swedes can still muster up a sense of ingenuity and style. In short, we think Volvo’s new models are great! n See ww.volvocars.com for more.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

Tourism is in Top Gear at Burghley STAMFORD Having opened for its spring and summer 2018 season last month, tourism is in top gear at Stamford’s Elizabethan stately home, thanks in part to a cameo on the BBC’s Top Gear programme. The TV motoring show featured the Sunday evening programme’s presenters, including former Friends actor Matt leBlanc, careering around Burghley House’s parkland to ‘test’ Range Rover’s new Velar, and its competitors Volvo’s XC60 and Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio. Commensurate with its equine connections, the presenters set the three SUV cars loosely equine related challenges including ‘showjumping’ and a ‘cross-country’ circuit. Burghley House contributes a significant amount of money each year to the area’s tourist trade, and will this month host its Game

& Country Fair in conjunction with Living Heritage, the Magic of Motown in association with LIVE Promotions, as well as its annual Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club’s annual rally. Later in the season, the parkland will host its Battle

Farmers ‘Back in the Black’ says expert business advisors

PROFITS PROPPED UP BY SUBSIDIES, SAY ACCOUNTANTS AND BUSINESS ADVISORS

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Proms concert with JSL Events, its Food Festival and Fine Food Market. The stately home’s programme of events will culminate in its Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials which will this year take place from 30th August.

n For a full programme of events based at Burghley House, visit the stately home at Stamford PE9 3JY. Alternatively, call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

RUTLAND UK farmers have bounced back from the worst arable harvest in a decade with a return to profit in 2017, although too many still rely entirely on subsidies. That’s according to new research by chartered accountants Duncan & Toplis. Analysis of the accounts of 150 farms across the East of England showed that average net farm income increased from £26 to £46 pounds per acre for harvest 2017, due primarily to higher average crop prices. However, half of those in profit last year would have turned a loss were it not for the

direct payment; which is widely expected to be overhauled once the UK leaves the EU. Mark Chatterton, head of agriculture for Duncan & Toplis and said: “The figures for harvest 2017 are an improvement on the previous year, but over-reliance on direct payments is evident. Those that will thrive outside the EU will be those that are starting to plan now, through better tax planning, reviewing their business models and considering new forms of diversification.” n For farm business and accountancy advice in Stamford & Rutland visit www.duntop.co.uk.

NB: Above image courtesy of BBC Picture Desk.

GET FIT AND HAVE FUN IN STAMFORD

STAMFORD Stamford Fitness has opened at the New College Stamford’s Borderville Campus. Its aim is to cater for people of all levels of fitness to work out in a friendly environment. State-of-the art equipment include three treadmills, two rowers, exercise bikes, and two cross trainers. Most partner with personal fitness apps and mobile phones and members can choose to watch TV on a range of Freeview channels

and there’s free Wi-Fi too. Qualified fitness instructors create personal programmes tailored to members’ goals and will be on hand to offer advice when it’s needed. Members of Stamford Fitness can take part in a selection of fitness classes at evenings and weekends such as spinning and circuit training. n Annual or flexi-membership from £25/month, visit Stamford Fitness, Borderville Campus, Ryhall Road, Stamford PE9 1US.

Stamford Stone Guarantees its Reserves by Acquiring Clipsham Quarry Company

Free delivery for the latest garden equipment direct to your garden...

RUTLAND If your lawn is lacking or your garden is looking grave, you’ll get a little extra help from Peterborough Garden Machinery’s range of ride-on and walk-behind mowers, and cordless multi-tools. The firm provides sales, servicing, consumables and repairs for the whole life of your machine, and offers free delivery anywhere in Rutland. Highlights include the Westwood range of lawn tractors, Atco’s bowlinggreen-finish cylinder mowers powered by petrol or rechargeable batteries, and Stihl’s commercial-quality brushcutters and hedge trimmers. n Call 01733 268168 or see www.pgm-ltd.co.uk.

STAMFORD Stamford Stone Company has confirmed the acquisition of the Clipsham Quarry Company from former owner Sue Thomas, making the Company the sole supplier of Clipsham limestone worldwide and guaranteeing its reserves for generations to come. Stamford Stone Company currently operates the Clipsham Medwells and Greetham quarries, both on the famous limestone belt. The Clipsham Quarry off Bidwell Lane has now been added to that portfolio. Clipsham Quarry has been in the Davenport-Handley family since the 1880s. It has a site area of 293 acres to the south of Clipsham village. n See www.stamfordstone.co.uk.

18,715sq ft

Fitness in Stamford

IF YOU’RE A BUSINESS ON THE GROW, a new office development in the centre of Peterborough could be of interest. Summit Park is based in Hampton, and has been developed by Beeson Wright, designed by renowned architectural practice David Turnock. Three high quality office buildings of 4,300sq ft, 5,376sq ft and 9,039sq ft are available, making a total of over 18,500sq ft. n

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BUSINESS

NEWS In Brief

LEICESTERSHIRE

£2.5M FOR BELVOIR CASTLE PROJECTS £2.5m will be invested in Belvoir Castle to restore The Engine Yard, a 12,000sq ft, three acre site of early Victorian buildings. The site will be redeveloped to provide a home for rural enterprises, and Her Grace the Duchess of Rutland is hoping to create a farm shop and café, cycle hire centre, garden centre with 1,000sq ft space, a health & beauty spa and a wine bar on the site. It’s hoped that the site will facilitate a programme of events that will include farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and cookery demonstrations. Other events mooted for the site include ‘dog friendly’ weekends and open-air barbecues for families. It’s hoped the site will be open by early May. See www.belvoir castle.com for more information on the development. n

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Stamford Pride & Peterborough Pride INTRODUCING OUR TWO NEW MAGAZINES!

Last month we introduced our third

publication in the Pride Magazines family. Stamford Pride will give your area’s historic Georgian town the recognition it deserves with its own dedicated title.

Next month, we’ll also be launching

Peterborough Pride, which we’re confident

will soon become the city’s finest magazine!

To advertise in any of our four magazines, call our friendly team now on 01529 469977 130

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