Rutland Pride November 2016

RutlandPride

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NOV 2016

COUNTRY CLOTHING WITH ROBINSONS

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

COVERING STAMFORD & THE WHOLE OF RUTLAND

RutlandPride

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

Have you voted yet in our annual Restaurant of the Year competition...?

Enjoying Autumn Walks in Rutland...

EXCLUSIVE

How to make the most of a season of mist and mellow fruitfulness...

£3.70

10 YEARS IN FINE VOICE

Celebrating a decade of fundraising with Oakham’s NSPCC Carol Concert Page 34

Page 16

Rutland on Film EXCLUSIVE

NOVEMBER 2016

Written & filmed in Rutland, Starfish is in cinemas now...

This Month: Beating Retreat - the military celebration in Oakham...

Eating Out

Rushton Hall Hotel & Gates Garden Centre Page 58

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A really good film has the capability to stir the emotions, with a powerful mix of the visual, the narrative and dialogue. I was moved to tears this month with a short preview of a new film based on the life of Hambleton couple Tom and Nicola Ray.

JULIAN WILKINSON MANAGING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER

Starfish is a new 90 minute film not only based on the life of the couple, but written, filmed and produced right here in the county. It’s absolutely superb, a difficult watch in places, but ultimately, a really rewarding piece of filmmaking too.

We’ll find out a little more about the film and some of the people behind it like Writer & Director Bill Clark, and actress Joanne Froggatt, best known from ITV’s Downton Abbey, later in this edition.

Elsewhere in this edition, with Autumn upon us, we’re suggesting leaf-crunching walks to allow you to escape festive preparations and enjoy the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness.

ROB DAVIS, EDITOR 01529 469977, editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

RutlandPride

NOV 2016

COUNTRY CLOTHING RESTAURANT OF THE WITH ROBINSONS YEAR COMPETITION

CHRISTMAS DAIRY FARMING GIFT GUIDE IN RUTLAND

COVERING STAMFORD & THE WHOLE OF RUTLAND

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

Enjoying Autumn Walks in Rutland...

EXCLUSIVE

How to make the most of a season of mist and mellow fruitfulness...

£3.70

10 YEARS IN FINE VOICE

Celebrating a decade of fundraising with Oakham’s NSPCC Carol Concert Page 26

Page xx Page 16

Rutland on Film EXCLUSIVE

Written & filmed in Rutland, Starfish is in cinemas now...

This Month: Beating Retreat - the military celebration in Oakham...

Eating Out

Rushton Hall Hotel & Gates Garden Centre

Page 56

COVER PHOTO

We’re always looking for great covers - if you’re a keen photographer, send your pictures to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

Also, we’ll meet Margaret Wheeler, who has been helping to organise Oakham’s annual NSPCC Christmas Carol Concert for the past 10 years.

The event has raised over £150,000 for the charity over the past decade, and we’ll find out why a special guest will ensure this year’s event will be extra special!

Best wishes for a great month, Rob Davis, Editor

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RutlandPride

NOV 2016

COUNTRY CLOTHING RESTAURANT OF THE WITH ROBINSONS YEAR COMPETITION

CHRISTMAS DAIRY FARMING GIFT GUIDE IN RUTLAND

COVERING STAMFORD & THE WHOLE OF RUTLAND

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

Enjoying Autumn Walks in Rutland...

EXCLUSIVE

How to make the most of a season of mist and mellow fruitfulness...

Page xx

£3.70

10 YEARS IN FINE VOICE

Celebrating a decade of fundraising with Oakham’s NSPCC Carol Concert Page 26

Page 16

Rutland on Film EXCLUSIVE

Written & filmed in Rutland, Starfish is in cinemas now...

Eating Out

Rushton Hall Hotel & Gates Garden Centre Page 56

This Month: Beating Retreat - the military celebration in Oakham...

With best wishes from the Rutland Pride team Managing Director and Publisher: Julian Wilkinson.

General Manager: Ian Bagley.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis. Features Editor: Tilly Wilkinson.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray. Distribution: Joe Proctor.

Office Manager: Sue Bannister.

Account Managers: Lauren Chambers and Nicola Smith.

National Sales Manager: Zoie Wilkinson.

Sales Manager: Roberta Hall.

Web Developer: Ryan Potter.

Sales Executives: Sian Jarratt, Emily Brown, Carissa Clay, Hayley Scott, Jessica Cobbold, Sarah Allen, Yvette Coates, Aileen Perolio-Jones and Cassy Ayton.

www.facebook.com/rutlandpride Why not follow us on Facebook? You can keep up to date with any news we may have for our lovely magazine!

twitter.com/@RutlandPride Follow us on Twitter so you can read our tweets. We’ll let you know what’s going on and keep you well informed!

By supplying editorial or adverts to Rutland 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.

Enjoy Rutland Pride, read it cover to cover.

Pick it up, put it down and when you have finished with it pass it on. When everyone has had a good read, pop it in the recycle bin!

Pride Magazines Elm Grange Studios East Heckington, Boston Lincolnshire PE20 3QF Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

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

Page 26: Downton Abbey’s Joanne Froggatt in Rutland’s very own full length film.

Contents

06 16 26 34 58 85 143 159

November 2016

Good news only, and lots to do in the area.

That’s what our NEWS AND WHAT’S ON guides provide this month.

It’s the season of ‘mists and mellow fruitfulness,’ and an ideal one for enjoying COUNTRY WALKS - our suggestions offer some lovely walks.

Starfish is the RUTLAND FEATURE FILM that’s been written, filmed and produced right here in the county: lights, camera... Rutland!

This month we’re celebrating ten years and £150,000 of fundraising for the NSPCC in Oakham as we meet MARGARET WHEELER. This month FOOD & DRINK pages feature Cold Overton’s Gates and the luxurious Rushton Hall plus wine with Harish.

Get an early start on your festive shopping with the first of our CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDES, featuring the area’s independent retailers.

Wrap up warm with quality FASHIONS as we look at the cosiest and most stylish country clothing from Stamford’s Robinsons.

Indulge your electric dreams on our MOTORING pages with a spin in the new Tesla electric SUV.

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County News Uppingham Fatstock is set for 30th November...

Event will be 110th sale. One of the most prestigious events in the town’s calendar, it’s also one of the last traditional markets to be held in our market towns

Uppingham’s annual Fatstock agricultural show will take place on Wednesday 30th November, as one of the last such events to take place in the UK’s market towns.

Champion pigs, sheep and cattle are primed and preened for the event, held annually in the Market Square.

Rutland farmers proudly show off the best of their stock with the aim of encouraging people to buy British and support the UK’s farming industry.

Cancelled only by war and the two national outbreaks of the foot and mouth epidemic, this is a unique show, being the only event of its kind in the UK still held in temporary penning in a town market square.

The town’s regular weekly

Restaurant Number Three, Sunday opening, a clarification...

Rutland Pride last month created a restaurant feature on Stamford’s No 3 The Yard, and proofed it to the restaurant.

We incorrectly stated that the restaurant is closed on Sunday, and this error was missed on the client’s proof.

We’re happy to clarify that the restaurant, based just off the town’s Ironmonger Street is, in fact, open for Sunday lunch service from noon until 3pm, with a dedicated menu for Sunday lunch service.

We apologise for any confusion. n For bookings call 01780 756080 or see www.no3theyard.co.uk.

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Olive Branch wins Dining Pub of the Year Award Clipsham pub restaurant named in Good Pub Guide 2017, thanks to “everyone’s hard work,” say Sean Hope and Ben Jones...

fatstock market finished in 1954, with the ending of wartime controls, but the annual Fatstock Show has continued and remains one of the most prestigious events in the town’s calendar and includes cattle, sheep and pigs classes. n Shown here are 2015’s Brooksby Melton students; Each year, students from the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture take part in the event. The students selected three pigs from the college’s herd of Pedigree Welsh pigs that they believed best represented the breed standards.

On the morning of the show and sale, the students arrived early to get the pigs cleaned up and looking ready for action. Their hard work paid off and the early morning was all worthwhile when one of the pigs they selected took first prize!

See www.brooksbymelton.ac.uk.

Clipsham’s Olive Branch has been named Leicestershire & Rutland Dining Pub of the Year in the Good Pub Guide 2017.

The pub, which was named Great Britain Pub of the Year in the Good Pub Guide 2014, was praised yet again in the 2017 edition for its service, ambience, cooking and drinks.

Ben Jones, joint-proprietor of The Olive Branch with Sean Hope, said: “The whole team works extremely hard to ensure The Olive Branch is consistently at the top of its game.

This award is the culmination of everyone’s hard work.

“We’ve recently planted a pub allotment, which means we can cook with even fresher, more local produce, and we’re planning an interior refurbishment this winter, as well as more top quality events such as cookery demonstrations.”

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

Silver Screen has solid gold appeal for local moviegoers Two films a month will be screened from now on at Oakham’s Cinema for Rutland thanks to popularity of the service at County Museum...

Oakham residents have been so keen to take advantage of Arts for Rutland’s Cinema for Rutland events at Oakham’s County Museum that the number of screenings will double from this month.

Films will be showed on the third Friday and the first Thursday of each month from October with more than 100 people attending screenings and films like Lady in the Van starring Maggie Smith selling out completely.

Cinema for Rutland is run entirely by volunteers and tickets for showings are now available from Oakham Wines.

Lady in the Van will be shown from October 21st, with halfterm screenings of family film Paddington from October 27th.

November’s films include the comedy Florence Foster Jenkins and Absolutely Fabulous, based on the BBC series.

Next month visitors to Thorpe Hall in Peterborough will be welcomed by beautifully lit angel statues representing the hard work of its Sue Ryder Nurses…

n For more information on screenings see www.a4r.org.uk or call Oakham Wines on 01572 757124.

Charity Fashion Show for Hope Against Cancer Champagne and canapé reception at Leicester’s Bentley dealership, followed by fashion show...

Syston’s Bentley dealership will provide a super backdrop for a charity fashion show taking place on Thursday 10th November from 7pm.

The charity, Hope Against Cancer, is committed to providing funding for cancer research projects and supporting clinical trials in Leicestershire and Rutland.

“Join us for a fun filled night at our 4th annual Hope Fashion Show,” says Bill Stillman.

“Last year we raised over £5,000 and our target this year is £10,000 - we have enough seats available and aim to welcome around 150 people.”

Be an angel and support Sue Ryder this Christmas...

“Our guests will receive a glass of fizz on arrival and there will be an opportunity to browse & purchase from stalls during the evening which will include many items from the designers featured in show itself.” n Tickets are £25, available from www.hopeagainstcancer.org.uk.

Peterborough hospice Thorpe Hall’s Angel Christmas Fair, founded by Lady Victoria Leatham, will be held at the Grade I listed building on 3rd and 4th December with more than 50 stalls already confirmed and all proceeds going to Sue Ryder, which provides palliative care at the centre.

To give the event the wow factor, businesses are being asked to sponsor wicker angels that are between 120cm and 180cm in height and which will be lit up throughout the event, promoting the cause and the businesses which have supported it.

Sponsors of the angels will be invited to attend a Champagne Reception on 2nd December from 6pm so that they can see their company’s name in lights alongside their sponsored angel.

“The vast range of care services Sue Ryder are able to provide to the local community, and across the UK are invaluable,” said Lady Victoria.

Additional tickets to the Champagne Reception will also be available at £25 per person and are open to anyone who would like preview of the crafts, foods and gifts on offer.

Lady Victoria added: “This is becoming a proper community event. It is a chance not just for Peterborough people and those from surrounding counties to come together and show support for our fantastic local hospice, but also to have fun and enjoy some unbeatable shopping in aid of a great cause.” n The fair will be open to everyone on 3rd and 4th December from 10am - 4pm. Entry £5 per person.

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County News Glowing reports for surface being trialled in Rutland...

Rutland is the testing ground for a brand new glow in the dark surface already making Oakham safer Oakham residents are already delivering a glowing report on a new surface being trialled near the town’s Greenfield Road.

Rutland County Council road and transport bosses saw the new surface being trialled at a trade show and jumped at the chance to be one of the first

areas in the UK to trial the new surface. Created by materials giant Tarmac, the UltiGlow road surface absorbs UV rays in the daytime and glows in the dark, reducing the need for street lighting and has made the pathway more visible since it was laid last month.

Gates Garden Centre hosts Carol Concert for EMICS Cold Overton Garden Centre will host its first carol concert on Friday 9th December to raise money for East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme...

Cold Overton’s Gates Garden Centre will host a Christmas Carol Concert on Friday 9th December from 7.30 to raise money for EMICS. Entertainment will be provided by the Belvoir Wassailers, and the evening will also feature a mulled wine and mince pie reception.

Tickets are £15/each and will include the chance to win one of several prizes from a year’s free parking at Rutland Water’s Anglian Water owned sites, a family ticket to the Rutland Show, a family ticket to the Burghley Horse Trials, a visit to the military dog training centre at North Luffenham, and a family visit to Barnsdale Country Club for the site’s ‘floatation’ experience.

Star prize at the auction will be a visit for four people with 8

Austin Healey to the BT Studios for a behind the scenes look at Rugby Tonight.

Over 280 tickets will be sold for the event, which raises money for service, which sees doctors volunteer to attend emergency incidents across Rutland and Leicestershire. n For tickets, call 01664 454309.

THE BOOK CLUB This month we have a beautiful collection of anthologies that make perfect Christmas gifts and easy reading...

The Brontë Sisters For all who have longed for Mr Rochester with Jane Eyre or imagined themselves out on the moors with Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights, here are each of the novels of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë packed into one pocket-sized tome.

The list of novels include Jane Eyre, Shirley, Villette, The Professor, Wuthering Heights, Agnes Grey, and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall.

The Moth, Neil Gaiman Before TV, people gathered on porches and told stories.

The Moth is a non-profit group that is trying to recapture this art. The best true stories are collected here from a geneticist with a secret to Hemingway’s friend who landed himself in a role as a substitute bullfighter.

Brief Interviews with Hideous Men, David Foster Wallace This book is at the boundaries of fiction.

Among the stories are The Depressed Person, a dazzling blackly humorous portrayal of a woman’s mental state, and Brief Interviews with Hideous Men, a dark series of portraits of men whose fear of women renders them grotesque.

Letters of Note, Shaun Usher A collection of over one 100 of the world’s most unusual letters.

From Virginia Woolf’s heart-breaking suicide letter, to Queen Elizabeth II’s recipe for drop scones sent to President Eisenhower and the first use of the expression ‘OMG’ in a letter to Churchill.

Dear World, How Are You?

by Toby Little When Toby Little was five, he decided to write to someone in every country in the world.

With help from mum, Toby hand wrote and posted letters to everyone from research scientists in Antarctica to game keepers in Chad and even the Pope. He achieved his goal and the world wrote back.

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Christmas begins with a trip to Gates Garden Centre...

14,000sqft of Decorations • 12 emed Displays Gift Ideas • Santa’s Grotto • Festive Dining Cold Overton, Oakham LE15 7QB Telephone 01664 454309 Open 7 Days a Week | Free Parking

www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk

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NE

W

TIXOVER, NR STAMFORD, RUTLAND

£2,395,000

BUILT IN 1992 FROM RECLAIMED LOCAL STONE. THE PROPERTY’S DESIGN MAKES THE MOST OF ITS ELEVATED POSITION OVERLOOKING THE WELLAND VALLEY 7

6

6

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

EPC Rating: C.

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NE

W

£1,000,000

THE OLD NURSERY, PILSGATE, STAMFORD

SURROUNDED BY PRIVATE GROUNDS IN A SECLUDED LOCATION, A CHARACTER STONE BARN CONVERSION WHICH BENEFITS FROM A VERSATILE MIX OF ENTERTAINING ROOMS, INFORMAL FAMILY SPACE AND BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION 3

4

2

EPC Rating: ?

NE

W

KINGS CLIFFE, PETERBOROUGH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

£800,000

LARGE DETACHED FAMILY HOME WHICH OFFERS VERSATILE ACCOMMODATION TO SUIT ANY POTENTIAL PURCHASER. THE PROPERTY SITS DEEP IN TO ITS PLOT SURROUNDED BY ESTABLISHED GARDENS 4

5

3

EPC Rating: ?

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WILSONS ARMS FARM, ALLEXTON

GUIDE PRICE £750,000

A simply stunning contemporary country home beautifully finished by the current owners and sitting in a plot of approximately 3.5 acres with stunning open views over some of south Rutland's prettiest countryside.

SOUTH VIEW, UPPINGHAM

OFFERS OVER £450,000

An extremely rare opportunity to acquire a building plot with detailed planning consent for an architect designed home in an elevated position on the edge of Uppingham with countryside views and walking distance to the town centre.

MANOR COTTAGE, BRAUNSTON

GUIDE PRICE £500,000

A charming double fronted cottage with a wealth of period features and character sitting in a quiet corner of this popular Rutland village overlooking the village green and churchyard beyond.

BELLE VIEW, WHISSENDINE

GUIDE PRICE £350,000

An imposing three bed stone built property offering good sized accommodation sitting in an elevated position in this well thought of Rutland village.

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Little Bytham, Lincolnshire

An period farmhouse imaginatively extended, with outbuildings, set in landscaped gardens and paddocks.

About 6 acres Drawing room | Sitting room | Dining room | Library Kitchen/breakfast room | 5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Converted barn | Outbuildings & stables | EPC:E

Market Harborough 01858 897650 Helen.keating@struttandparker.com

Guide price ÂŁ1,195,000

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H IT D W AN L

ASHWELL Guide Price £2.10million A very fine, substantial Grade II Listed Georgian Country House set on the edge of the village with the benefit of an accompanying 3-bedroom detached Bungalow located within the grounds. Ashwell House offers extensive, beautifully proportioned and elegant accommodation which has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment programme, whilst retaining a wealth of original features. Coach House with Stables, Outdoor heated Swimming Pool, mature Gardens and Grounds of approx. 2.2 acres. EPC Exempt.

CAREBY Guide Price £1.49 Million A beautifully presented and substantial family residence, set within gardens and grounds of over 2.0 acres located in a delightful secluded riverside setting. Accommodation comprises: Reception Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Family Room, large Living Kitchen, Study, Master Bedroom Suite, 4 further Bedrooms (3 ensuite). The property offers equestrian facilities to include grass paddock, detached building with 2 purpose built stables, further outbuildings and a 3 bay barn. Energy Rating: D.

TC S S

WING

£670,000

Charming detached house dating back from 1893 situated in one of Rutland’s prettiest villages and providing well-proportioned accommodation with 4 dle bedrooms. The self-contained 1-bedroom Annex is highly adaptable, with potential for an office, guest house, granny flat or childrens/teen play area.

The large private garden is beautifully stocked and tended enjoying open countryside views. Energy Rating: F.

SOMERBY

£525,000

Substantial stone-built period house situated a short distance from the village church and providing spacious four-double-bedroom accommodation set over three levels with a wealth of character features.

3 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Cloakroom/WC, Workshop, Cellar, 4 dbl Bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower Room, Games Room. Single Garage, parking, gardens. Energy Rating: F.

H IT & W ND NG I L A BL A ST

SOMERBY

£495,000

A charming character property in a delightful, thriving village, surrounded by idyllic countryside. The house offers 2 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, 3 Bedrooms (with en-suite to the master bedroom) and Family Bathroom. The gardens enjoy glorious views over open countryside and parkland and include a turnout paddock extending to approximately 1/2 acres and stabling for up to 4 horses. Energy Rating: D.

WING Asking Price £435,000 A spacious five bedroom Barn Conversion offering extensive family accommodation in one of Rutland's most sought-after villages. The accommodation is arranged over two storeys providing a good deal of flexibility. Large Sitting Room, spacious Living Kitchen, 5 Dbl Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms. Outside: single Garage, patio style garden to front. Energy Rating D.

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o A Guide t WALKING IN

RUTLAND

As it becomes cooler, exercise of any kind seems a bit of a headache, but walking around Rutland can be really enjoyable even in autumn. We went for a stroll with the Rutland Ramblers Association and saw first hand what the benefits can be; taking in the views, having a bit of a chat with some of the local ramblers, and boosting the immune system in the process...

Words & Images: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- WALKING IN RUTLAND -

An autumn walk is always appealing at this time of year. After layering up with scarves, gloves, coats and hats, you step into your wellies, whistle for the dog, and venture out without the fear of sunstroke.

A HIKER’S CHECKLIST

After taking in beautiful sights of the frosty countryside and letting the dog run wild through hedges and woodlands, head back home for a steaming mug of hot chocolate to drink by a roaring fire.

If you’re of the view that walks aren’t for you, that they just offer an inevitable cold, an hour well-wasted, and a muddy dog to clean, take time to read through this feature and you may change your mind.

It’s the best season to get out and about with the county covered in crispy leaves and autumn mists, a peaceful silence across the countryside, and a cool breath of wind on your cheeks.

England’s Chief Medical Officer believes that if a medication existed which had a similar effect to physical activity, it would be regarded as a wonder drug or a miracle cure.

“IF MEDICATION EXISTED THAT HAD A SIMILAR EFFECT TO WALKING, IT WOULD BE REGARDED AS A WONDER DRUG OR A MIRACLE CURE...”

The Benefits

OF WALKING There are so many benefits to walking around the county. Not only do you get to see some beautiful sights you may have never noticed before, you also become so much more healthier.

Walking will help manage your weight, reduce the risk of diabetes and certain cancers such as colon, breast and lung cancer, improve flexibility and strength of joints, muscles and bones, increase good cholesterol, boost the immune system and generally

If you’re going on a hike, there are ten essentials that you will need to take with you...

The officer recommends that adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity, and an easy way of doing this would be walking for 30 minutes five days of a week. Only a third of people in the country achieve this mimimum recommended level.

1. NAVIGATION You’ll need a map and a compass to guide you on your walk, and a GPS and Altimeter is optional depending on where you’re hiking.

We’ve met three local ramblers to discuss their favourite routes around the county, and what they like to look out for when walking around Rutland.

If you go on regular walks with a group of friends and you’re planning on going on a hike, we’ve a list of essential items to take with you, and if you’re new to rambling altogether and want to know more about the benefits, we’ve provided a little list below.

See an easy guide on how to use a map further in this feature if you can’t remember from your Guide and Scout clubs, and discover how walking can be fun. improve your mood, aid sleep and improve your self-image.

It’s free, requires no special equipment or training, it’s safer than most sports, and it’s easy to start slowly and build your stamina gradually.

It also has so many environmental benefits; if we all swapped one car journey a week for walking instead, car traffic levels would reduce by at least 10%.

It’s also sociable in groups and not an activity that requires attention, which is what makes it fun.

2. INSULATION Make sure you’re well insulated with gloves, jackets, vests and waterproofs.

3. ILLUMINATION Remember a torch or headlamp and extra batteries just in case.

4. FIRST-AID SUPPLIES This is essential - you don’t know what might happen so be prepared.

5. FIRE Bring matches or a lighter and fire starters for emergency survival fires.

6. COMMUNICATION Always bring a phone in case something bad happens and make sure someone knows your route and expected time back.

7. NUTRITION Bring an extra days supply of food.

8. HYDRATION Water bottles or hydration systems are definitely essential items to bring.

9. VIEWING ESSENTIALS If you’re on a hike to take in the views, remember binoculars or telescopes.

10. EMERGENCY SHELTER If you are on a hike for more than one day, remember tents and blankets.

>>

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- WALKING IN RUTLAND -

>> BARRY COOMBS, TEAM LEADER...

Barry Coombs and his wife Rita were the group leaders of a walk we joined in on, in Somerby in late September. The walk was around seven to eight miles long through open countryside in the fields around small villages including Pickwell and Little Dalby.

Barry and his wife have been a part of the Ramblers Association for the past four or five years, but Barry has been involved with walking groups and has enjoyed walking since he was a boy.

“I walked as a sporting activity really,” says Barry. “I used to love going on long walks with my family and it was a good way of keeping healthy while not feeling exhausted.”

“Now, I do it for health, but also for the social side of things. It’s nice to simply walk and chat.”

As I followed the rather large group of about 30 ramblers, they agreed, saying it has social and health benefits too.

Although we spend so much time in Rutland photographing, interviewing, and visiting local businesses, we don’t usually have five minutes to take in the glorious view of the Rutland countryside; an occupational hazard.

Luckily on our visit to Somerby, the job largely involved looking across beautiful panoramic countryside views. We joined the Rutland Ramblers in late September at the Stilton Cheese Inn in Somerby, just to the west of Rutland in Leicestershire.

The group: The Rutland Ramblers meet every couple of weeks on a Sunday at different locations hosted by different people. Walks are usually around eight to ten miles but there are shorter walks held on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. A weekend away is also arranged most years, and the group were going to Derbyshire a couple of weeks after they joined to walk around Somerby.

“I STILL WALK FOR FITNESS, BUT ALSO FOR THE SOCIAL SIDE OF THINGS. IT’S NICE TO SIMPLY WALK AND CHAT...”

Before the walk: All walks with the Rutland Ramblers require waterproof clothing, walking boots and a packed lunch. They also advise you to bring plenty of water and trekking poles are optional. Look on the rambler website to see what walks are coming up in the area, get in touch with the group leader, and come along.

You don’t have to be a member of the Ramblers Association to go on a walk but after coming on a few with the group, joining allows you to receive emails and notifications letting you know which walks are coming up. The group leader will also tell you if there are lots of stiles to climb, muddy patches, nice views or woodland areas to walk through.

The walk: You don’t need to worry about directing the group; that’s the role of the group leader.

Barry had a GPS and a map with the highlighted route to ensure we didn’t get lost. The group met just outside the Stilton Cheese Inn, a particularly large group of almost 30, and after waiting for about ten minutes, we headed off, Barry leading at the front and Rita at the back.

The walk soon opened up to fields as we made our way over a couple of stiles. A pathway along the side of a field lead to a wooden gate which opened onto a sugar beet field. We made our

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How to Read a Map

Above: Walking through a sugar beet field.

Left: Barry Coombs, group leader of the walk in Somerby.

Top: A member climbing over the stiles.

way through, with wet legs from the beet leaves, and headed through a couple more fields that looked onto Rutland’s rolling hills, before the first break. I left the group at this point which was about two miles in, just outside the village of Leesthorpe. The group then continued up to Oakham Road before turning left to Little Dalby, along Jubilee Way, through Burrough Hill Country Park and down to Burrough Hill before turning left back to Somerby.

The ramblers: I was able to speak to a few of the ramblers to get more of an understanding as to what they enjoy about the walk. One lady explained she went on walks to socialise and get to know locals, while another said it was a good way to keep fit.

Many members of the group like it because it’s an easy activity and it’s something they often did on their own before they knew of the society. A number of people had partners at home who couldn’t walk as well as they used to, so instead of walking on their own, they joined the Ramblers Association.

Here are the basic principles of reading a map. On a 1:50 000 map, such as an OS Explorer, one unit of length on the map represents 50,000 units on the ground so 1cm represents 50,000cm or 500m.

To find the different symbols represent, like different kinds of church, electricity pylons, roads and railways, woods, orchards, scrub or marsh, look at the key usually at the bottom of the map.

Rights of way marked on maps will often be visible as a distinct path or track on the ground, but in less well-walked areas, the path may not be visible. Footpaths and bridleways are marked as green dashes on OS Explorer maps and magenta on OS Landranger maps.

To measure the distance of your

route, take a piece of thin string and lay it carefully along the exact route on the map, then lay it straight along the scale line on the map’s margin.

Don’t forget the extra effort of climbing hills when calculating how long the route will take to walk.

All OS maps are criss-crossed by vertical and horizontal grid lines. A grid reference uses four or six figure to identify a particular area or spot on a map that is 100 metres square.

So the grid reference SK9214 is a grid reference for a village called Greetham in Rutland.

SK relates to the location in Britain/county so grid references in Rutland will start with SK. When you look at the grid, the square that covers Greetham will have a horizontal line running to 92 and a vertical that runs to 14. Also, when walking in hilly or mountainous areas, look at the orange lines. The closer they are, the steeper the ascent.

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Perhaps you would prefer to continue to walk on your own and not in a rambling group, but would like to know what some of the best routes there are to follow.

Viking Way: This walk stretches for 147 miles from Humber Bridge in North Lincolnshire to Oakham. It was opened in 1976 in Lincolnshire, and although the full route may be too long for you, the Rutland stretch is manageable.

It enters Rutland near to the source of the River Witham near Thistleton. It passes very close to the former RAF Cottesmore and goes through Greetham and Exton. The route meets the A606 and Hereward Way at Whitwell, then passes through the two watersports centres on Rutland Water at Whitwell and Barnsdale.

From here it follows the A606 from Barnsdale Hill into Oakham. When the route was opened, it followed main roads from Exton to Oakham.

“THE RUTLAND ROUND FOLLOWS THE PERIMETER OF THE COUNTY BUT THERE ARE A FEW DIVERSIONS TO THE RESERVOIR AND OAKHAM...”

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The Rutland Round: The Rutland Round is a circular walk of about 65 miles round the county of Rutland. It mainly follows the perimeter of the county but there are a few diversions to Rutland Water and Oakham. The route can be broken down into sections too.

Hereward Way: The Hereward Way is about 110 miles in length stretching from Oakham to Norfolk. Each end of the path has a railway station. The path runs through Stamford, Peterborough, March, Ely and Brandon.

Jurassic Way: Jurassic Way is about 88 miles in length connecting Banbury, Oxfordshire with Stamford. The Way follows a band of Jurassic Limestone.

It passes between Market Harborough and Corby, following the Welland Valley to Rockingham.

Rutland Water: There are no waymarks for this walk, just follow the path right round the reservoir.

As you would know if you live in the area, the views are second to none and pub stops along the way allow for it to be a relaxing day out.

It’s 26 miles if you follow the route round the peninsula, and just 17 miles if you miss out the peninsula. n

Top: Barry leading the group. Above: A beautiful view of the fields that we pass on the walk. Below: Well prepared ramblers! Right The Rutland Ramblers..

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- WALKING IN RUTLAND -

THE CHAIRMAN

Alec Crombie (pictured below

by Neil Wedge Photography) is the Mayor of Uppingham and also the chairman of the Ramblers Association in Rutland.

He tries to go on as many walks as possible.

If you’re interested in joining the Ramblers Association but want to experience a walk first, here’s the calendar for the rest of the year...

LAUNDE ABBEY, 10 MILES

Sunday 30th October This walk is lead by Mike, a member of the Ramblers Association. He will lead the walk from Oakham at 10am. Ring the walk leader on 01572 755663 for the exact meeting point.

FOTHERINGAY, 8 MILES

Sunday 13th November This walk is lead by John. He will lead the walk from Uppingham at 10am. Ring the walk leader on 01572 812093 for the exact meeting point.

COLD OVERTON, 8 MILES

Sunday 27th November This walk is lead by Richard. He will lead the walk from Oakham at 10am. Ring the walk leader on 01664 454249 for the exact meeting point.

LANGHAM, 9 MILES

Sunday 27th November This walk is lead by David. He will lead the walk from Oakham at 10am. Ring the walk leader on 01664 474352 for the exact meeting point.

UPPINGHAM, 5 MILES

Boxing Day This walk is lead by Lesly. She will lead the walk from Uppingham at 10am. Ring the her on 01780 763139 for the exact meeting point.

OAKHAM, 5 MILES

New Year’s Day This walk is lead by Bob. He will lead the walk from Oakham at 10am. Ring 01572 755718 for the exact meeting point. n For more information on the Ramblers Association, please visit www.ramblers.org.uk/rutland.

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To view and purchase photographs from The Event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

Beating Retreat

Military event in Oakham raises money for ABF...

The grand spectacle of Beating Retreat took place in Oakham recently, the 15th ceremony in the event’s history.

Chairman of the Leicestershire and Rutland ABF (Army Benevolent Fund) David Young organised the ceremony.

2016’s Beating Retreat was witnessed by over 1,000 people and we belive it has raised over £2,500 for the charity.

The Band of the Queen’s Division performed the ceremony which would traditionally marshall people into fortified garrisons following the implementation of evening curfews.

Today, a programme of music is predominantly a fundraising exercise, with Rutland’s High Sheriff Dr Sarah Furness and Lord Lieutenant Dr Laurence Howard in attendance, taking the salute. n Images by Andy Howe, Rutland Photographic. Call 01572 868485 or see www.rutlandphotographic.uk

Feature your event in our magazine.

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

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Purchase photographs from this event online.

Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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Rutland - RUTLAND’S NEW FILM -

Lights, Camera

It’s a new, feature length film based on the lives of young Rutland couple Tom & Nicola Ray that has been written, filmed, and directed entirely in the county

by Uppingham filmmaker Bill Clark.

This month Starfish will reach cinemas, with Downton Abbey’s Joanne Froggatt.

Here, we find out why the team behind the film felt that the couple’s love story was so compelling...

Words: Rob Davis.

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“IT’S A LOVE STORY which starts where most others finish. Starfish is based on a Rutland couple, its been written, filmed and produced right here in the county,” says Bill Clark, the Rutland film director whose latest film makes its debut in cinemas nationwide this month.

Last night I kissed my child goodnight.

Earlier that day, I had met Bill, the Uppingham writer and film director of Starfish, who is bringing to cinemas the story of a family from Hambleton who did just the same back, in December 1999.

But whilst I awoke this morning and took for granted my health and mobility, the family who feature in Bill’s film, Tom and Nicola Ray, will never again take for granted the things about which I, and the rest of us, remain so complacent.

The story begins one terrifying night as the couple, in their mid-30s, successful in their careers, with one young child and a second on the way, go to bed only to wake up to find that the lives they knew have been decimated by the sudden onset of an unexpected illness.

“Tom and Nicola were in their 30s, a professional couple, and I knew them having worked with Nic on a number of film projects. That night, Tom went to bed perfectly well. He hadn’t been complaining about not feeling well, he hadn’t had a niggling medical complaint that he’d been avoiding seeking treatment for - he was a fit young man, in good health, looking forward to the imminent birth of his second child.”

“He awoke in the night with what seemed like a bad case of food poisoning, and the following day, he’s unwell and is rushed to hospital where his condition deteriorates. Tom has contracted the condition sepsis, which kills over 44,000 people in this country each year, affecting a further 150,000, yet remains relatively unreported given that it’s usually a symptom of another condition rather than an illness in its own right.” >>

“The film tells the story of a young professional couple whose life is affected by the sudden onset of illness...”

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true, that the people are real, makes it even more compelling.

“Nicola worked in the same industry as me, and we shared an office at one point in Queniborough. Tom fell ill in December 1999, just before Christmas and I heard about his illness from friends. I hadn’t met him but he was clearly well-liked and well-respected.

He worked in the banking sector, but had left a good job to pursue a career as an actor.”

“I became involved in raising money alongside other colleagues and former colleagues, and we eventually raised £50,000 for the equipment he needed.”

>> “The condition is life-threatening and in order to survive, he must have all four limbs amputated and part of his face removed.”

Starfish follows the aftermath of Tom’s illness, from his three months of unconsciousness in hospital to the further eight months he spent in hospital and his slow and painful recovery.

Nicola is dealing with the birth of a new child, and as well as her grief, the massive financial and emotional fallout which intensifies when the couple’s young daughter Grace visits her father in hospital and fails to recognise Tom as her father.

As the film progresses, Tom’s depression and the strength needed on Nicola’s part to hold the family together leads the couple to question whether they’re strong enough to emerge from the other side of a crisis which has ripped every aspect of their lives apart.

“Clearly it’s a powerful film, dark and difficult to watch in places, and it has been given a 15 certificate because of some of the themes it deals with,” says Bill, “But this is not a downbeat film, its overriding theme is Tom’s spirit and invincibility.”

If the story were fictitious, it would be a difficult watch, but knowing that the story is

“We eventually met in 2008 and what struck me most was how positive he was. He had started working for Oakham fashion company Lands’ End, whilst Nicola had gone back into teaching. They struck me as such a strong, such an inspirational couple, and I wanted to find out if I could tell their story.”

“In order to survive, Tom must have all four limbs amputated and part of his face removed...”

“Initially we had the idea to produce a documentary, but that wouldn’t have conveyed the emotions underlying the facts.

Everyone had a different emotional reaction, like anger that such a dreadful thing could happen to such a lovely couple.”

“I soon realised that making it as a drama would have more impact and would reach a much wider audience.”

“I spent two years interviewing everyone, on camera, from the couple themselves to friends, family and doctors. That footage was intensely personal, and will never be seen, but it gave me the insight to create a first draft of the script, a 90 page treatment which would be refined and refined right up until filming.”

Top: Joanne Froggatt of TV’s Downton Abbey plays the lead role as Nicola who has to keep her family together following Tom’s quadruple amputation.

Above: Tom Riley plays the lead role in a film which sees the lives of Oakham couple Tom and Nicola turned upside down when Tom falls ill one night.

The film, Starfish, has been written, filmed and produced entirely in the county, by Uppingham man Bill Clark (pictured with crew, right).

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- RUTLAND’S NEW FILM -

“Anyone can make a film, but financing it and getting it seen is considerably more difficult. We managed to put together a patchwork of funding, mostly from private investment and I was very lucky to work with two very good producers, Pippa Cross and Mel Paton.”

“Everyone sees pound signs when they find out you’re in the film industry but the reality is very different. What we’ve produced is a low budget film which doesn’t look low budget; the cinematography is beautiful, and we had another stroke of good fortune too.”

“I was determined that the filming should take place in Rutland, it felt more authentic...”

“Our third producer, Ros Hubbard, is a brilliant casting director and sent the script to Joanne Froggatt, who had appeared in Coronation Street and Life on Mars before being cast as Anna Bates in Downton from 2010 to 2015.”

“I’d always thought she was a really good actress and when she got in touch I was delighted. We had lunch at the Century Club on London’s Shaftesbury Avenue. I proposed she gave me a day of shooting a sample scene to see how we worked together. It was really successful, and having continued to raise funds we were delighted to be able to begin pre-production work in October 2015.”

“I was determined that filming should take place in Rutland. It felt right, authentic, and I’d had so much support already from businesses like The Falcon, Don Paddy’s and from Kendrew Barracks.” >>

STARFISH

facts & figures It took seven years of hard work and fundraising before Starfish could be filmed...

The film was filmed in just 25 days and has 175 scenes...

There were 26 actors, and more than 100 extras when filming...

Starfish used 50 different locations in Rutland, including Hambleton Village, Kendrew Barracks and Rutland Water...

Filming took place in November 2016, with post-production completed in July 2016...

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- RUTLAND’S NEW FILM -

“Tom, I think, loved the film, but found it painful too. Nicola was affected by the dialogue more than the images...”

Top: Filming took place in no fewer than 50 locations across Rutland, including this scene featuring Tom Riley as Tom Ray, and Ellie Copping, aged five, playing the couple’s daughter.

Right: Uppingham’s Bill Clark is writer and director.

>> “Filming took place in November and December with over 50 people involved and a cast of 26. Post production took place in early 2016 with editing, colour grading, the recording of an original soundtrack, captioning and credits.”

“The film was seen for the first time at the Edinburgh Film Festival in June this year, with Tom and Nicola in the audience.

Nicola had spent a good deal of time on set, and Tom had acted in the film; because of the technical limitations of using prosthetics during filming, Tom Riley wore green socks over his arms and legs which enabled us to remove them in post production. Tom Ray himself then body doubled for the close ups, with the final editing seamlessly mixing between the two actors.”

“Tom Ray, I think, loved the film, but found it painful too. Nicola said that the images weren’t as tough to see as the dialogue was to hear, which I think is testimony to a great script.”

“We had a superb cast with Ellie Copping from Market Harborough, who plays the couple’s young daughter Grace, a really great 30

find. Her character, is on screen for over half the film, and whilst, because of her age, she was potentially the most difficult cast member to work with, she was, in fact, absolutely wonderful and brought a real family feel to the shoot.”

“Starfish makes its debut in cinemas across the UK on the 28th October, and then screens at festivals in South Korea, the US and France before Christmas - so we’re bringing Tom and Nicola Ray’s story - and Rutland - to the attention of the world.

Something we can all be a little bit proud of.”

For Bill, it’s the culmination of seven years of hard work even before he began filming, but also the opportunity to tell a very intimate, sometimes difficult, but ultimately upbeat, love story about grown-ups and about how love really can overcome the most harrowing of circumstances.

n Starfish will be released nationally on the 28th October and screens at the Savoy Cinema, Corby. See www.starfish.film for the trailer and further venue and ticket information.

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An Interview with Joanne Froggatt WHAT MADE THE DOWNTON ABBEY ACTRESS FEEL COMPELLED TO TAKE ON THE ROLE OF STARFISH’S FEMALE LEAD, NICOLA REY?

What attracted you to the story?

I just found it absolutely heart-breaking, uplifting and incredible that Nic and Tom have managed to overcome the most difficult of obstacles and have kept their family together.

I thought it was the most amazing love story I’ve ever read and that’s what drew me to being a part of it.

I really wanted people to know about the Ray family. They were a very normal family, a lovely couple with lovely kids and then this extraordinary thing happened to them.

It could happen to any of us, we just don’t know what’s around the corner.

Doing this has certainly made me stop and think how lucky I am.

How did you prepare for the role?

I didn’t want to meet Tom and Nic until I knew the film was definitely going ahead because I felt that could be upsetting, for myself and for them.

So when we got the green light Tom (Riley) and I met them for dinner.

I was a bit nervous and there were a couple of times where I had to really stop myself from bursting into tears, but it was an extraordinary occasion and we spent much longer together than we expected, drinking wine and beginning to swap the stories that were so important to informing our performances.

There has been big support from the Rutland community hasn’t there?

Absolutely. This is a local community that Tom and Nic live in and also Bill our director.

Right: Joanne Froggatt, former Downton Abbey actress, takes the lead in Starfish.

For the community, it’s a mixture of knowing about Tom and Nic and wanting to be a part of telling their story.

What do you want this film to show or do? I think that everyone watching the film will have a different experience, depending on their own life experiences.

I hope what people take from it is awareness of disability, awareness of the people they love and a sense of being grateful for the things we all have and take for granted.

I hope that people will feel it’s a real love story too and that we’ve done Tom and Nic justice in telling it. n

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- OAKHAM’S NSPCC CHRISTMAS CONCERT -

The Rutland NSPCC Festive Carol Concert...

CELEBRATING TEN YEARS OF

Now in its 10th year, The Rutland NSPCC Carol Concert has established itself as one of the county’s favourite ways to begin celebrating Christmas. Last year’s event alone raised £25,000, with £150,000 raised in total during the event’s history. This year, its organiser Margaret Wheeler was recognised for her role in the event, and ahead of the 10th anniversary concert, we find out why the generosity of Rutlanders will ensure vulnerable children in our area will be able to look to the new year with a renewed sense of hope...

Words: Margaret Wheeler.

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You’ve been involved with Oakham’s NSPCC Christmas Carol concert for a number of years. How did the event begin, and what was the story behind it?

For many years before I came to the county, the Rutland NSPCC had organised an annual lunch in order to raise funds, but in 2007 we felt it was time to have a change.

I had previously helped to organise large Carol Concerts at Leicester Cathedral, so suggested we try something along the same lines in Rutland.

We were anxious to avoid clashing with the popular Services of Nine Lessons and Carols in local churches and instead produced a programme which is a sparkling mix of carols and secular readings to make us think, laugh, and reflect on the true values of Christmas.

What has the evening grown into?

A wonderful evening of music is on offer, with carols of wonder and serene beauty performed by the internationally acclaimed Harborough Singers and the cheerful, merry music of Foresters Brass Band, who also add their special sparkle to traditional carols for the audience, who are nicely warmed-up by a glass of mulled wine!

Enthralling secular readings of mirth, poignancy, and enchantment from our greatest literature, both traditional and contemporary, are brilliantly recounted by our guest celebrities.

There are carols both to enjoy and to participate in, with internationally recognised choir, which performs to a very high choral standard with great beauty.

Which celebrities have participated in previous years?

In the past we have welcomed Mary Berry (The Great British Bake-off), Julia Bradbury (BBC Countryfile), Lars Tharp (Antiques Road Show), Nigel Colburn (RHS Chelsea judge, columnist and TV presenter), Chris Villiers and Chris Chittell (Emmerdale) alongside a group of very loyal local celebrities such as Peter Wheeler (British Lions... >>

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- OAKHAM’S NSPCC CHRISTMAS CONCERT -

>> Leicester Rugby) Anne Davies (BBC Midlands Today and actress), Rosemary Conley (fitness expert), David Farrer QC and hotelier Tim Hart. Caroline Aston makes an appeal at the end of the evening on behalf of the NSPCC. This year we are delighted to welcome back Mary Berry of the Great British Bake Off for the third time. Along with Peter, Anne, Rosemary, Lars, Nigel and David.

Why did you choose the NSPCC and what difference has it made in the area?

In 1980 my first baby was nine months old when I read of the cruel events surrounding the death of young Jasmine Beckford, also nine months old. I simply could not comprehend such violence and cruelty to vulnerable and helpless babies and decided to try to help to protect them.

We are utterly astonished by the success of the concert, which for many Rutlanders has now become an unmissable magical start to the Festive Season.

It has become a prestigious County occasion in the presence of The Lord Lieutenant, The High Sheriff and The Mayor... it is always a complete sell-out.

Last year’s event was an unprecedented success, raising over £25,000 - we hear it also contributed to the event raising £150,000 throughout its total history?

It is incredible that this simple event has raised so much money - and all we are doing is enjoying ourselves! This success could not have been achieved without the wonderfully loyal support of many local businesses and individuals that sponsor the evening, advertise in the programme or donate to the concert’s organisation. It would just be impossible without so much support from local people.

We are completely indebted to certain sponsors who have been on board since day one and whose help enables the concert to take place, such as Robert Wills (Don Paddys, Uppingham) and Gates Nurseries, who for ten years now have helped us make the church look stunning. We are so grateful to the many Rutlanders who turn out in their hundreds each year, filling the church to capacity, creating a wonderful atmosphere and giving so generously to the retiring collection.

How has that money been spent?

We are the NSPCC’s largest donor from a single event in the whole of the East Midlands and I always endeavour to keep abreast of how the money is spent. In Rutland itself there is an ongoing programme in schools to educate children about new dangers like online grooming and sexual abuse.

There are many children regionally and nationally helped by the crucial work of the NSPCC and sadly, always new children to protect and new challenges to face such as neglect, female genital mutilation, bullying and cyber bullying, domestic abuse, child trafficking, grooming, harmful sexual behaviour, and radicalisation.

This is the 10th anniversary of the event. What can we expect this year?

We are hoping to make it a very special celebration and are delighted to welcome back Mary Berry to read for us, to add to the occasion.

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Fundraising in Oakham CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF NSPCC

And the concert has been recognised by a special award from the NSPCC this year?

In July I went to London to receive an award from the NSPCC for Community Volunteer of the Year - the first time they have given out the award. However, I do feel it was an award for the efforts and huge generosity of the whole of Rutland, because this concert simply would not take place without the help of so many, many people. All I do is just pull it all together. I want to try and put Rutland on the NSPCC’s map!

How can Rutlanders help to support the event?

Help to produce this concert every year comes from so many different people, each doing their bit - not least the small group of housewives that actually make it happen on the night - our NSPCC committee!

We are always looking for advertising from local businesses for our beautifully produced, quality programme. It is in continual use all evening by over 500 people, so it gives good exposure! We always need sponsors to cover costs such as hiring the church, sponsoring the mulled wine and mince pies, the postage, printing, hiring the castle where we hold a post-concert reception for our readers, musicians and VIP guests, who all give their time at no cost to us. But really, we just want people to come along, enjoy a wonderful evening and do as much as they can to support the charity! It really is a magical event and for many, it represents the beginning of Christmas! n This year’s event will take place on Thursday 1st December, All Saints’ Church, Oakham.

Doors 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start, tickets £15 from James Sellicks Estate Agents, Don Paddy’s, Uppingham or by callling 01572 813626.

The most recent records showed that 27 children from Rutland and 393 from Leicestershire were the subject of a child protection plan. Over half of these children were the victims of multiple categories of abuse. Last year 273 young people contacted Childline from a landline in Rutland.

Landline calls account for just 26% of all calls received by ChildLine and a high proportion of ChildLine counselling is now online, through email and 1-2-1 chat. We therefore know that many, many more Oakham’s NSPCC Christmas Concert typically attracts an audience of 450 people and takes place in the town’s 14th century All Saints’ Church.

Last year’s event raised over £25,000 for the charity, and in its 10 year history, has contributed more than £150,000 to the NSPCC’s funds.

children from the area are using this service. Last year the NSPCC Helpline received over 54,000 calls nationally from adults worried about the safety and welfare of a child.

The number of these calls from Rutland referred to police or social services more than trebled. The NSPCC’s volunteer led Schools Service continues to visit Rutland schools, teaching children aged four to eleven how to spot the signs of abuse and neglect. To date 556 children have been reached in 8 of the county’s primary schools.

Great British Bake Off, who previously appeared at the event in its early days and makes a return visit to perform a reading at the 10th anniversary of the concert, which takes place on Thursday 1st December.

The concert begins with a mulled wine reception, and includes performances by the Harborough Singers and Foresters Brass who lead the singing and provide musical accompaniment, and the audience is encouraged to join in many of the carols, including a typically raucous rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas.

This year, you can meet Mary Berry as the star of TV’s

Right: Mary Berry will be appearing at this year’s NSPCC Christmas Concert in Oakham.

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A Very Merry Victorian

CHRISTMAS

If you’ve been following the Sunday evening biopic of Victoria, you’ll have relished the settings of Buckingham House and the other locations in the series. The Victorians also had a flair for a special occasion, creating many of the traditions we now associate with Christmas. This month, celebrate the season and step back in time to celebrate a Victorian Christmas at Rockingham Castle...

Words: Rob Davis.

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- A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS -

The ritual of Christmas for modern families involves shopping on crowded high streets, children with ever-more expensive electronic toys, and never-ending rounds of entertaining and cooking.

Things were different in Victorian times more austere, less commercialised. It’s little wonder that the Victorian interpretation of Christmas is still appealing 115 years after the Queen’s death, and our fascination with the period has been compounded by ITV’s recent biopic on the life of Queen Victoria, following the era from her accession to her marriage to Prince Albert.

For those seeking to indulge in the delights of this age and the sense of pageantry this season, Rockingham Castle is hosting its Victorian Christmas Eve event from 21st to 25th November.

traditions VICTORIAN

Dining in the Great Hall

candles adorning the Great Hall table and the sound of carol singers in the castle’s courtyard.”

“We’ve recreated Christmas Eve from around 1849 and have gone to great lengths to reestablish the past as faithfully as possible.”

The Watson family are celebrating and the Victorian servants are stealing a moment from their duties to take visitors around the

“THE WATSON FAMILY ARE CELEBRATING AND THE VICTORIAN SERVANTS ARE STEALING A MOMENT FROM THEIR DUTIES TO TAKE VISITORS AROUND THE CASTLE, FROM THE BUTLER AT THE DOOR TO THE FOOTMAN LIGHTING CANDLES...”

“It’s a really exciting way to bring the castle to life for our visitors,” says James Saunders Watson, whose family has lived in the castle, originally built for William the Conqueror, for over 450 years.

“It’s a sensory experience with the aroma of brightly decorated pine trees, the soft light of

Victorian Toys from Northamptonshire Museum

The Christmas tree is a Victorian tradition with Prince Albert bringing the German tradition to England, and specifically to Windsor Castle, in the 1840s.

Christmas crackers were introduced by London based Victorian sweet maker Tom Smith in 1847 after he visited Paris and envisaged wrapping his sweets in fancy paper, to mimic French bon-bons.

In 1843, Sir Henry Cole commissioned an artist to create a card which was printed 1,000 times for sale in his art shop. By 1880, 11,000,000 would be sent, following the introduction of the halfpenny postage rate.

Boxing Day originated in the Victorian era when the church would open a box of cash to distribute to the poor.

castle, from the butler at the door to the footman lighting candles.

“This is Christmas as it should be, a family celebration and a time of traditional peace and goodwill.”

Visitors to Rockingham can enjoy castle tours from 11am every 15 minutes, homemade cooking in the Walker’s House Restaurant, and there’s a gift shop with beautiful decorations and handmade gifts.

“The whole look and feel of a traditional Victorian Christmas is historically faithful and ripples through the castle. So if you’ve enjoyed watching Victoria’s accession, you can continue to appreciate the era and celebrate the season with our family, welcoming in good cheer, peace and goodwill to all men!”

n Rockingham Castle’s Christmas Eve 1849 event takes place from 21st to 25th November. Admission £9/adults; £4/child (5-16yrs); £4.50 per car for parking, grounds & garden ticket. Visit Rockingham Castle, Market Harborough LE16 8TH. Call 01536 770240 or see www.rockinghamcastle.com.

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What’s On...

MURDER MYSTERY NIGHT

Find out What’s On this month with events taking place in different venues across the county. November is full of fireworks and fun as we slowly make our way into the festive season...

WILLIAM MORRIS

Wednesday 2nd November Part of the Peterborough in the Past series, this is an afternoon sure to interest art lovers.

William Morris is a reflection on how the pioneer of the movement worked to influence arts and crafts as well as providing an insight into Peterborough’s history.

01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com

THE SPECIALS

Saturday 3rd November Reforming 30 years after their split, the Specials are still touring worldwide with the same high energy performances and packing out venues. With their first tour selling out rapidly they are bound to be in high demand so grab tickets fast to avoid disappointment!

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

Saturday 3rd November A nostalgic night reviving the Motown label in all its glory! Enjoy talented musicians, dance moves and dazzling costume changes as you’re transported back to the 60s.

01733 265705, www.cresset.co.uk

AUSTENTATIOUS

Friday 4th November Prepare for a real treat as the all-star cast concoct a new Jane Austin novel every show based on a single audience suggestion.

Guaranteed to be a hilarious night, previous works include ‘Sixth Sense & Sensibility,’ ‘Double-0 Darcy,’ and ‘Mansfield Shark.’

01733 207239, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

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Friday 4th November The question is, ‘who dunnit?’ An action filled night to remember awaits you at Kilworth House, packed with twists and turns around every corner. While you solve the mystery enjoy a three course meal.

01858 881939, www.kilworthhouse.co.uk

- BONFIRE NIGHT RUSHTON HALL

Saturday 5th November Remember, remember the 5th of November at the home of Francis Tresham, notorious for his role in the infamous 1604 gunpowder plot. Enjoy a three course dinner followed by a glass of mulled wine while watching an absolutely spectacular fireworks display.

01536 713001, www.rushtonhall.com

PETERBOROUGH ARENA

Saturday 5th November Celebrate the 5th November at the Peterborough Arena’s spectacular fireworks night, ranked in the country’s top 10 displays! Accompanied by delightful food stalls and a large fun fair there is something for all the family.

01733 452336, www.fireworkfiesta.com

n There are often firework events throughout the county’s towns and villages.

In previous years, The Rutland Lions Club has held a big bonfire night at the rugby club, Whissendine Primary School often host a fireworks do and the White Horse in Morcott sometimes holds a display. Dates haven’t been released but watch out for details at these venues!

Kilworth House at Christmas...

LAST NIGHT OF THE AUTUMN PROMS

Sunday 6th November De Montfort Hall presents a night of uplifting classics to close the proms finale in spectacular style. Expect to hear your favourites including See Conq’ring Hero, Rule Britannia!, Nessun Dorma and Land of Hope and Glory.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE BALLET

Sunday 6th November Watch Kenneth MacMillan’s landmark production of Anastasia streamed live from Covent Garden in the comfort of the South Holland Centre. Anastasia tells the dramatic tale of a young Princess who is conflicted by her past and struggles to recall her identity.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

AN EVENT OF REMEMBRANCE

Friday 11th November Join the South Holland Centre for a night packed with song and performance to commemorate the First World War and remember those who have fallen. All profit from the event will be donated to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

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

WINE AND CHEESE TASTING

Friday 11th November Join Peterborough Cathedral for a night of wine, delicious cheese and lots of laughs hosted by Karen and George Brammer from The Stamford Cheese Cellar.

01733 355315, www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

CHRIS HART AND DANIEL SMITH

Saturday 12th November An established concerto player and an award winning musician - Christopher Hart and Daniel-King Smith - hailing from the Royal Academy Of Music come together to perform classics such as Bach, Albinoni to Debussy, Martinu via Hummel.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

LEVIATHANS

Saturday 12th November Enjoy James Wilton’s Moby Dick inspired production featuring his signature blend of athletic dance, martial arts, capoeira and partnerwork. A truly unique show unlike anything you’ve seen before!

01162 423560, www.curveonline.co.uk

LEICESTER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Saturday 12th November Classic FM host John Suchet is now as much known for his passion for music as he is for his work in journalism. In this lively concert the Leicester Symphony Orchestra prepares to have a Viennese ball as John presents each waltz and polka at De Montfort Hall in Leicester.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

SALUTE TO THE 40s

Sunday 13th November A true variety show celebrating all things 40s! Expect flags, bunting, and music from Frank Sinatra, Gracie Fields and Max Miller. If that wasn’t enough, the audience will be treated to an appearance from the UK’s number one Vera Lynn tribute act!

01780 766455, www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

- HIDDEN ENGLAND -

ROCKINGHAM CASTLE

Monday 21st - 25th November Rockingham Castle will be having a Victorian Christmas week this month.

The fires are lit, the food prepared and the Great Hall table is laid for a sumptuous Christmas dinner. Guided tours in period costume take place throughout the day and a wealth of beautifully lit Christmas trees welcome you into the Castle Courtyard.

01536 770240, www.rockinghamcastle.com

BURGHLEY HOUSE

Thursday 24th - 27th November Food markets with a difference! Come and meet around 30 local suppliers at this four day festive celebration of local produce. With handmade local cheeses, artisan breads, organic vegetables,luxury sweet treats and rare breed meat too.

01780 752451, www.burghley.co.uk

PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL

Monday 21st - 25th November Join Peterborough Cathedral Choir for an unforgettable evening of English, French and German music on the theme of peace and reconciliation.

01733 355315, www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

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What’s On...

STARFISH WITH RECEPTION

JOOLS HOLLAND

Friday 18th November Filmed in Rutland, Starfish tells the heartwrenching story of local man, Tom Ray, and his families struggle when he is diagnosed with a rarely reported disease; sepsis. The film will be introduced by director Bill Clark and special guests, Tom and Nicola Ray.

Thursday 24th November Jools Holland and his famed Rhythm And Blues Orchestra tour for their 21st year.

Back by public demand are the astounding vocals of Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall with the new addition of Beth Rowley’s soulful tones. Hailed as one of the UK’s most popular tours this is an essential for music lovers.

01780 763203, www.stamfordartscentre.com

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk Jools Holland...

E-SPA HEALTH AND BEAUTY EVENT

Monday 28th November Find the perfect gift for your loved ones at this exclusive Espa beauty event. Enjoy the chance to get pampered by on hand therapists while sipping on some mulled wine and maybe a mince pie or two!

01858 881939, www.kilworthhouse.co.uk

Joanne Froggatt will star in Starfish...

FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE

Sunday 13th November The Broadway Theatre present a moving event packed with live music delivered by the Peterborough Male Voices, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir. The night will provide a chance for the audience to reflect on those who gave their lives for us.

03336 663366, www.peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk

FRIDAY BIRDWATCHING WALKS

Friday 18th November A insightful three hour walk led by Terry Mitcham, author and bird recorder of Rutland Natural History Society. Terry’s walks run regularly as they have proved hugely popular with bird lovers.

01572 770651, www.rutlandwater.org.uk

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UPPINGHAM FATSTOCK SHOW

Wednesday 30th November Get a unique chance to see what’s on offer when you buy British at the Uppingham Fatstock Show. Up until recently, the Uppingham Fatstock Show was the only traditional farmer’s market to be held in a market town in the Britain. Local farmers will proudly display champion sheep, pigs and cattle all morning with prizes awarded at 11.30am.

01780 758008, www.discover-rutland.co.uk

CHRISTMAS IN UPPINGHAM

Thursday 1st December Enjoy late night shopping, a craft and gift fair in the town hall, market stalls, music and dance in the Methodist Church, street performers, choirs, hot food, buskers, children’s activities in the church; face painting, balloon modelling, and Father Christmas.

01780 758008, www.uppinghamtowncouncil.gov.uk

LITERATURE AT LUNCHTIME

Thursday 24th November Hosted in the Victoria Suite this is a unique lecture raising questions about well-known author George Orwell and the difficulties he faced getting his works published.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

GREASE

Saturday 26th November A favourite on Broadway, the West End and the silver screen, Grease topped Channel 4’s poll to find the 100 Greatest Musicals of all time. This is set to be the musical event of the year held at the Curve in Leicester.

01162 423560, www.curveonline.co.uk

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

Thursday 24th - 26th November To celebrate the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death Uppingham School will recreate one of his most loved works produced by director Emma Lucia who has joined them from a 17 year career in professional theatre.

01572 820820, www.uppthearts.co.uk

Midsummer Night’s Dream...

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

- GROTTOS -

GATES NURSERIES, COLD OVERTON

Saturday 19th November Stroll through an enchanted winter wonderland before visiting Santa in his Christmas Grotto. Meet the elves and choose a special gift from Santa’s magical toy workshop. After visiting the Grotto you can enjoy a tasty festive treat in the Garden Restaurant or stroll through 14,000 sqft of themed Christmas displays, decorations and lights to get you into the festive spirit! Just £7.99 per child including gift. For groups of more than 10, please call the garden centre to book your visit.

01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk

BELTON HOUSE, GRANTHAM

Throughout December Belton House have a number of special Christmas events on for children throughout December. From 2nd - 22nd December, there will be a Christmas Grotto near the Discovery Centre at Belton which will be £4.50 per child and we advise you to prebook as this event can sell out pretty fast.

01476 566116, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton-house

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Gates Garden Centre

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- RUTLAND BOOKSHOP -

Turning Over An

OLD LEAF

A second-hand bookshop is a dream for bookworms, researchers and collectors.

Whether you enjoy reading or you simply want beautifully bound books to fill a bookshelf at home, Edward Baines at the Rutland Bookshop in Uppingham has three floors of books piled so high that you could get lost in for hours...

Picture yourself walking around the grand library of a stately home, or at a desk peering over piles of open books with a magnifying glass and light from a banker’s lamp.

him since he was a boy, starting his very own ‘museum’ at the age of eight or nine, with a natural history section in the corner of his parent’s shed featuring bird’s nests and butterflies, and WWI paraphernalia like fragments of a landmine that landed between the villages of Ridlington and Brooke.

There’s something special about old books; the smell of the paper, the traditional binding in reds, browns and golds that line the shelves, and the centuries-old stories that are hidden behind their covers.

Edward Baines, owner of the Rutland Bookshop in Uppingham, shares this passion and curiosity for second hand books, and has dedicated his life to collecting them. His bookshop is truly magical, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, piles of books all around you, and winding stairs that lead to a second and third floor. His collection is extensive to say the least, and it’s a small place you could get lost in quite easily.

Edward read English at University and went on to become a school master. His interests in literature and collecting have been with

“It all started when a tailor in Uppingham had a number of old books, that his daughter wanted to dispose of,” says Edward. “I offered to handle them, selling them from a trailer on London Road in the town. I managed to sell quite a few, and enjoyed the whole experience, so I decided I’d open a second-hand bookshop.”

Opposite: Edward Baines.

Above: The Rutland Bookshop is on High Street West, on the corner of School Lane. Edward buys and sells old books in his store and at country shows.

Words & Images: Tilly Wilkinson.

In 1979, Edward opened the Rutland Bookshop next to the family bakery on the High Street. He bought books that he wanted for himself, and the surplus was kept in the shop. Soon enough, locals offered books they didn’t need or want anymore.

“I soon found out what sold and what didn’t, which allowed us to become a little more

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- RUTLAND BOOKSHOP -

1.

specialised. For instance, law, medicine, music, foreign languages were subjects that stayed on the shelves, and after selling at county shows like the Burghley Horse Trials, the Lincolnshire Show and Birdfair, country sports and natural history books seemed to be more popular.”

“I read or at least have a glance at all the books that come through my door. The most interesting book was a veterinary book on farriery from 1650. It was so interesting to see how little things have changed in the past three or four centuries. I farm too with my own small flock of sheep and herd of cattle, so I enjoy reading books about agriculture.”

2.

Some of the most peculiar books in Edward’s store include a first edition of Lewis Carroll’s Hunting of the Snark, FR Leavis’s original copy of one of John Donne’s works, and a copy of the Twelfth Night that is about the size of your thumb with a four-leafed clover inside discovered and kept by a previous owner.

“One of my best finds was at a house call in Essex, and we were going through a huge number of dusty, flimsy books, almost typescripts, and I found a book titled ‘How to Organise a Tiger Shoot’ hidden amongst the junk! And the most expensive was in a basket of quite ordinary books a woman had brought in; a 19th century natural history hand coloured book worth £1,500!”

Edward believes the bookstore itself was built in 1837 from an etching in a brick near

5.

1 The White Elephant by William Dalton, 1898, £10.

2. The Butterfly Hunters in the Caribees

by Harvey-Aaron, 1894, £20.

3. Sugar and Spice and All That’s Nice

by JK and VB, 1882, £75.

4. Under the Window by Kate Greenway, 19th Century, £75.

5. Fables for the Female Sex by Martha Collins, 1771, £45.

6. Hunting of the Snark by Lewis Carroll, first edition, £225.

7. What to Look for Inside a Church by Ladybird Books, circa. 1950, £2.

8. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne, £4.50.

9. A collection of books about Mary Mouse

by Enid Blyton, circa. 1950, £20 each.

10. The Great Book for Boys by Herbert Strang, circa. 1920, £5.

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4.

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6.

9.

7.

10.

8.

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- RUTLAND BOOKSHOP -

BOOK COLLECTING If you’re looking for a good reason to start book collecting, aside from the fact it makes a bookshelf look good, here are Edward’s reasons... n Assembling a book collection can be a lifetime learning experience and an exciting never-ending quest. n A good book collection almost always increases in value over the years, so it can be considered an investment.

the chimney and a town plan of the building with that date.

It was originally a dairy; a widowed lady and her two daughters managed it and lived in the two floors upstairs, until it was bought by a Charlie Thorpe. He was a watchmaker and jeweller, using the ground floor as his shop, the first floor as his workshop, and the second floor as his bedroom.

When Thorpe moved to bigger premises, the shop was let out to a lady who sold yarns of wool and knitting needles. It was an opticians before it became the bookstore.

The family bakery next door, Baines, has been in Uppingham since 1867 and currently run by his brother, it’s fourth generation.

Edward knows so much about his family’s history from reading and research.

His grandfather, for example, rode a horse and trap until he bought a car. A lady carrying milk pails on a yolk was walking opposite the bookstore when he came round the corner shouting woah at the top of his voice, used to commanding the horses, making the woman drop the pails in street!

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“I ENJOY READING. IT’S CURIOSITY THAT LEADS ME TO READ, NOT NECESSARILY A THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE. IT’S SIMPLY A SIDE-EFFECT!” Another story he told me was about Mr Baines of Morcott who was known as the worst sheriff of any county. His family has ranged from all levels of society.

Edward’s knowledge from the books he’s discovered and read is quite phenomenal, especially local knowledge. He’s been able to read logbooks from local schools, and knows stories like a boy who was absent for ‘pilfering’ and was being questioned by the police. He knows the history of big families in Rutland, and has read how things have changed from the 17th century to the present day in the county.

“I enjoy reading. Curiosity leads me to read, not a thirst for knowledge. It’s simply a side-effect!”

n Depending on your budget, you can buy first editions in very good condition which will definitely increase in value, and if it’s one of your favourite authors or novels, it’s invaluable to you too. n If you start a book collection, it could be in your family for generations, providing something valuable to pass onto your children and their children. n They make great gift if you’re struggling to buy Christmas gifts this year!

For more information on Edward’s bookstore, call him on 01572 722154 or visit the shop on the High Street in Uppingham, LE15 9QB.

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- HISTORY -

Going With A

BANG

THIS YEAR MARKS THE 411TH YEAR SINCE GUY FAWKES AND HIS GROUP OF CONSPIRATORS PLOTTED TO KILL THE KING WITH GUNPOWDER. ONE OF THOSE CONSPIRATORS WAS FRANCIS TRESHAM, FROM RUSHTON HALL... Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

November brings to mind huddling in front of a bonfire while enjoying a hot dog and a toffee apple, and watching fireworks explode in the sky. But how did this tradition come about?

making services commemorating the event an annual feature of English life. Often ‘Guys’ are made - probably relating to Guy Fawkes - out of clothes stuffed with newspaper and thrown on the bonfires.

In January 1606, during the first sitting of Parliament since the plot, the Observance of 5th November Act 1605 was passed,

Born in 1567, Frances Tresham would live a life that lead him to playing a notorious roll in the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Son of Thomas Tresham, his actions should have come as no surprise considering

On 5th November 1605, Guy Fawkes was discovered with 36 barrels of gunpowder underneath the House of Lords. The plot to kill King James I had been foiled, and the House of Lords along with the King, had been saved.

Interestingly, a man local to Rutland was part of the Gunpowder Plot, but he was also the man that some believe stopped the regicide too.

The History of Rushton Hall

Rushton Hall had been the possession of the Catholic Tresham family since the 15th century, when William Tresham bought the estate in 1438. He was Attorney General to King Henry V and Speaker of the House of Commons and was murdered in 1450. His great grandson Thomas Tresham built the Triangular Lodge in the grounds of the hall in 1592. His son, Francis Tresham, was involved in the Gunpowder Plot.

The Hall was sold in 1619 to Sir William Cockayne, Lord Mayor of London. His grandson Bryen inherited it and married Elizabeth Trentham, heiress to the Trentham estates including both Rocester Abbey and Castle Hedingham. Those estates would later be sold to fund the couple’s extravagant lifestyle.

In 1828 the Hall was sold to William Williams Hope, the family of Thomas Hope, a Dutch banker. After his death in 1854 the estate was sold to Clara Clarke-Thornhill. Charles Dickens was a great friend of Clara and visited Rushton several times. The fictitious Haversham Hall in Great Expectations was conceived from the Hall. It became a Grade I listed building in 1951. In 1957 it became a school for blind children run by the RNIB; the school moved to Coventry in 2002. The Hazelton family bought the hall in August 2003, and restored it to open as a four star hotel and spa.

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The Gunpowder

PLOT

Three Years in the Making n 1601 - 1603 The Plotters Gather: a circle of Catholic men meet regularly to discuss the future of England. n March 1603 A New Monarch: Elizabeth I dies and James I becomes king, also a protestant and against Catholicism.

n January 1604 Catesby’s Plan: When James I continues to fine Catholics and order them to leave England, Robert Catesby, Thomas Wintour and John Wright start plans. n April 1604 Guy Fawkes Recruited: Guy Fawkes is recruited as an explosions expert.

n May 1604 Sworn to Secrecy: The conspirators take an oath that swears them to secrecy on a religious primer.

n February 1605 Gunpowder In: The plotters tunnel from a house near Westminster to Parliament and smuggle the Gunpowder in.

n March 1605 Rented Vault: They rent a vault under Parliament to store the gunpowder. n Summer 1605 Money Men: Francis Tresham and other rich men join the conspirators.

his background. His father was a widely disliked, rebellious and stubborn landowner known for executing those who did not follow his opinions. A fusion of poor life choices and a lack of parenting led his son down a doomed path.

Frances Tresham was renowned for having a hot-headed nature. He landed himself time in prison for various crimes ranging from assaulting a gentleman and his pregnant daughter to the bolder act of joining open revolts including the Essex Rebellion.

Only his family’s status and riches could save him from the consequences of his actions, however he was not deterred from involving

himself in more conspiracies. He became an unstable character and was not to be trusted with his family’s money as he plunged them into financial worries with his hedonistic London lifestyle. Catholicism had always played a pinnacle role in Frances’s life and drove most of his criminal activity.

He had grown up in a time where his faith had faced so much persecution from the long train of protestant rulers that England had crowned.

Queen Elizabeth I was the main ruler who challenged the Christian faith, and she became the greatest Protestant power in Europe during her rein lasting until 1603.

n October 1605 Monteagle Letter Revealed: Lord Monteagle receives a warning letter and hands it to Robert Cecil. The plotters continue despite the risk and Tresham is accused of writing the letter. n 1st - 5th November 1605 Investigations: King James see the letter and orders an investigation immediately. The vaults are searched and Guido Fawkes is found. He hides his identity by calling himself John Johnson but he is arrested, questioned and soon tortured.

n 6th - 8th November 1605 Plotters Flee: The rest of the plotters flee and die in a shootout with sheriffs or are arrested and brought to the Tower of London. Catesby, Percy and the Wright brothers die here. n November 1605 - January 1606 Prosecution: The eight remaining plotters make their confessions, all found guilty of high treason and are hanged, drawn and quartered.

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- HISTORY -

She provoked the crisis and pushed the situation to breaking point when she executed 100 Catholic Priests in order to provide herself with a sense of security.

Her death in 1603, celebrated by many, gave hope for those of the Catholic faith; this could be their chance to put an end to all the religious conflict. England’s new monarch, King James I, was known to be more tolerant and peaceful than his predecessor with a desire to restore harmony. However, this was not to be and tensions between the Protestants and Catholics became higher than ever.

There was only one solution; to kill the king. An extravagant plot to blow up the House of Lords, kill the King and all other members of parliament was formed by Robert Catesby.

Catesby had recruited 11 fellow Catholics to his cause but was running out of money.

FRANCES TRESHAM WAS ADMITTED TO THE GROUP TO SOLVE THE CONSPIRATORS’ FINANCIAL ISSUES. CATESBY WANTED TWO THINGS FROM HIM; £2,000, AND THE USE OF RUSHTON HALL. CATESBY RECEIVED NEITHER. NOT ONLY THIS, TRESHAM IS BELIEVED TO HAVE BETRAYED HIM. Even with his debts, with an annual income of over £3,000, Tresham was one of the wealthiest people known to the plotters, and Catesby’s mother was Anne Throckmorton, an aunt of Tresham’s. The two cousins had been raised together and shared a close relationship.

Therefore, Frances Tresham was admitted to the group. Catesby wanted two things from him; £2,000, and the use of Rushton Hall. Catesby received neither. Following the meeting, he hurried back to Rushton Hall and closed his household, taking care to hide family papers. He then returned to London with his mother and sisters.

However, Tresham’s role in the plot became more curious and complicated than simply acting as a rather useless accomplice.

Later in October, during a meeting at which Tresham was present, the conspirators discussed the fates of several notable Catholic peers. Foremost in Tresham’s thoughts were the lives of two brothers-in-law, William Parker, 4th Baron Monteagle, and Edward Stourton, 10th Baron Stourton, but Catesby proclaimed that ‘the innocent must perish with the guilty, sooner than ruin the chances of success.’

As the last few details were being finalised that month, on 26th October Monteagle received an anonymous letter while at his house in Hoxton.

Although he was already aware of certain stirrings even before he received the letter from Monteagle, Robert Cecil, the English Secretary of State, did not yet know the exact nature of the plot or who was involved and

The MONTEAGLE letter that foiled the PLOT...

“My Lord, out of the love I bear to some of your friends, I have a care of your preservation.

Therefore I would advise you, as you tender your life, to devise some excuse to shift your attendance at this parliament; for God and man hath concurred to punish the wickedness of this time. And think not slightly of this advertisement, but retire yourself into your country where you may expect the event in safety.

For though there be no appearance of any stir, yet I say they shall receive a terrible blow this Parliament; and yet they shall not see who hurts them. This counsel is not to be condemned because it may do you good and can do you no harm; for the danger is passed as soon as you have burnt the letter. And I hope God will give you the grace to make good use of it, to whose holy protection I commend you.”

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had elected to watch to see what would happen.

When Monteagle’s letter was shown to the King on 1st November, James felt that it hinted at ‘some strategem of fire and powder,’ at the part where the anonymous author had stated ‘ they shall receive a terrible blow this Parliament.’

King James perhaps felt it was an explosion exceeding in violence the one that killed his father, Lord Darnley, in 1567. The following day, members of the Privy Council visited James to inform him that a search would be made of the Houses of Parliament, both above and below.

Tresham persuaded his accomplices that he had no part in the Monteagle letter, however many are certain that he played a more overt role in the betrayal of the plot.

When Fawkes was caught and arrested on 5th November, he called himself John Johnson, and was interrogated by members of the King’s Privy Chamber, but on 6th November James ordered that John Johnson be tortured.

He was finally broken and revealed his true identity on 7th November, and on 8th November he began to name some of those with whom he was associated. Tresham’s involvement was attributed with only a minor role, but while his compatriots had fled London the moment they discovered Fawkes had been caught, Tresham stayed in the city.

On 12th November 1605 he was arrested, thrown into the Tower of London and confessed. He admitted to concealment but denied active involvement in the conspiracy.

He quickly became ill and contracted a strangury in his urinary tract. Despite treatment from doctors his condition only became worse and he died on 23rd December.

His last moments on his deathbed were spent contesting his innocence. Following his passing, his head joined those of his fellow conspirators Thomas Percy and Robert Catesby on display in Northampton while his body was thrown into a hole at Tower Hill; a gruesome ending to an eventful life.

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Bonfire Night at

RUSHTON As it was the home of Francis Tresham, notorious for his involvement in The Gunpowder Plot, Rushton Hall always celebrates Bonfire Night on 5th November in style...

Pre-dinner drinks are served in The Great Hall then there is a three course dinner followed by coffee. You can enjoy a glass of mulled wine while you watch the absolutely spectacular fireworks display.

Stay the night in one of the Classic bedrooms all for £240. You can upgrade your stay to a Superior room for £260 or a State room for £310 or one of the Four Poster Bedrooms for £450.

n To book a room on Bonfire Night, please contact Rushton Hall on 01536 713001 or visit their website www.rushtonhall.com for more information.

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LUXURY ive Fine Dining in Fest

Experience the zenith of fine dining in a beautiful Grade I listed setting and enjoy a break from festive preparations this month as we enjoy the stunning hospitality of Kettering’s Rushton Hall...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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- EATING OUT -

celebrate the SEASON WITH ADRIAN COULTHARD, HEAD CHEF OF RUSHTON HALL HOTEL

Just as we thought Kettering’s Rushton Hall could scarcely appear more beautiful, the Grade I listed mansion, originally built in the 1400s, is seen here with roaring fires, Christmas trees and other festive decor.

The grandeur of the weald stone building suits the festive season, and its festive afternoon tea, fine dining Tresham Restaurant and adjacent spa offer a wealth of ways to treat yourself or a loved one to a pre-Christmas pick-me-up, if you’re still in mourning for summer.

Located just 22 minutes from Uppingham and 30 minutes from Oakham, we think it’s ideally situated in pretty parkland to provide the perfect place to escape the season without having to venture too far from Rutland.

“A SUBTLE ITERATION OF AFTERNOON TEA INTERPRETS CHRISTMAS CLEVERLY, RATHER THAN JUST ADDING A COUPLE OF MINCE PIES TO THE TIERS...”

Festive Dinners: Amuse bouche followed by a three course à la carte menu for private dining parties, £55/head.

Festive Sundays: Seasonal three course Sunday turkey roast luncheons £30/head.

The place is arranged as a huge square around a pretty courtyard and has a number of little dining rooms and lounges suitable for private dining and celebrations. The Tresham Restaurant itself is smartly presented with wood panelling and large stone fireplace, but easily the hotel’s most impressive room is the Grand Hall which was the inspiration for Miss Havisham’s hall in Dickens’s Great Expectations.

It’s in here over the season that you can enjoy a festive version of the hotel’s afternoon tea. This subtle iteration, though, means an interpretation of festive flavours and concepts rather than just afternoon tea with a couple of mince pies thrown onto the tiers... it’s much cleverer than that.

New Year’s Eve: Celebrate with a gourmet dinner featuring a champagne and caviar drinks reception, plus four courses and coffee, followed by dancing to live Swing act and a DJ, £140/head.

New Year’s Day Lunch: Three courses served from noon until 2pm, £45/person.

Right: Head Chef Adrian Coulthard.

Above: Textures of beetroot.

Opposite: Lamb seared fillet with barbecue shoulder.

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>> There are a number of Christmas packages and options for private dining, but Christmas Day itself has been booked up since August. Given that fact, our next recommendation would be to book into the hotel on a Saturday and enjoy the spa’s Me & You package, which includes a massage and facial, then enjoy supper at Rushton Hall, via Adrian’s fine dining à la carte modern British menu, but followed by a night in one of the hotel’s 46 beautifully styled bedrooms.

The menu includes amuse bouche and comprises a choice of six starters, from a

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Great Hall and State Rooms Lounge Menu Mon to Sat 12 noon to 1.00pm.

Afternoon Tea Mon to Sat 1.30pm - 4.00pm.

Tresham Restaurant Seven days, 7.00pm - 9.00pm.

Sunday lunch from 12 noon to 2.00pm.

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- EATING OUT -

on the MENU PRIX FIXE MENU £55/THREE COURSES PLUS AMUSE BOUCHE

Starters

Confit duck pressing with smoked and parfait textures, bergamot gel and croutes.

Foie gras mousse with brioche.

Whole crab with tomato sorbet, avocado, cucumber jelly & caviar.

Main Courses

28 day mature Scottish beef fillet with braised shin, morels, onions spinach and artichokes.

delicious confit duck pressing to white crab served with caviar.

Next, a choice of six main courses includes the seared fillet and barbecue shoulder of lamb, served with sweetbread and parmesan gnocchi, or a 28 day mature Scottish beef fillet with morels and horseradish.

Rushton Hall’s elaborately presented desserts are a treat, especially for chocoholics who will doubtless appreciate the menu’s assiette of Valhrona chocolate textures.

The hotel’s local suppliers include a professional forager who underpins Adrian’s preference towards seasonality and local provenance.

Another footnote in Rushton Hall’s history is the role Frances Tresham played in financing the gunpowder plot of 1605.

This is recognised on November 5th each year with a drinks reception followed by a three course supper and firework display in the grounds of Rushton Hall, a few bookings remain for this, and for Rushton Hall’s New Year’s Eve package.

But even if you’re booking in for à la carte dining away from the hotel’s festive celebrations or special nights, you’re assured of exceptional dining, a lovely setting and attentive service.

Next year should prove exciting at the hotel opens its new £8m orangery for black tie balls, weddings and other smart functions.

With a capacity to cater for over 300 people, it’ll be one of the largest and smartest wedding venues in the area.

The AA this year awarded the Tresham Restaurant at Rushton Hall three rosettes, making it one of just 85 restaurants in the UK to achieve the Association’s maximum award. We wouldn’t be surprised if the hotel’s dining provision didn’t receive a Michelin star during its next inspection, as we think it’s one of the best fine dining venues in the area, and most certainly one which justifies a short journey over the border into Northamptonshire. If you’re looking to celebrate the season in style this year, Rushton Hall is definitely the place to visit.

Seared fillet of lamb with barbecue shoulder and sweetbread, ratatouille and tenderstem broccoli.

Sea trout with crushed potatoes and pancetta.

Desserts

Marshmallow with fruit textures and sorbet.

Valrhona chocolate textures with white chocolate ice cream.

Cheese

Selection of British artisan cheeses.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change. n Rushton Hall, Rushton, Northamptonshire NN14 1RR. Call 01536 713001 or see www.rushtonhall.com.

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RELAX THIS CHRISTMAS… Let the team at the Marquess take the stress out of the festive season with our fantastic dining packages to suit all Christmas a La Carte menu Two courses – £17.95. Three courses - £22.95 Christmas CLassiC set LunCh Two courses - £14.50 new Year’s eve CeLebration Dinner & DanCe £59.50 per person We can cater for all group sizes, whether you are looking for a cosy dinner for two or organising a larger gathering over the festive period.

Call us or visit our website to find out more!

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

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Chocoholic Desserts IF YOU’RE A SELF-CONFESSED CHOCOHOLIC, THESE DESSERTS WILL MAKE YOUR MOUTH WATER. SOME OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN RUTLAND PRESENT SOME OF THE BEST CHOCOLATEY DESSERTS...

ABOVE PAR

Rutland Water Golf Course serve a rich chocolate torte with butterscotch sauce and salted caramel ice cream.

Call 01572 737525 or visit www.rutlandwatergolfcourse.co.uk.

n The Red Lion at Great Bowden serves a dessert that stars on most pub restaurant menus for the simple reason being, you just can’t beat a delicious warm chocolate brownie.

n The Barnsdale Lodge Hotel serve a deliciously rich chocolate cake on their dessert menu in addition to lemon and lime cheesecake and white chocolate panna cotta.

01572 724678, www.barnsdale lodge.co.uk.

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Theirs is a milk chocolate and dark cherry brownie with ice cream and chocolate sauce.

Call 01858 463571 or visit the website www.redlion-greatbowden.co.uk for more info.

n THE MARQUESS OF EXETER IN LYDDINGTON chose a classic chocolate

fondant as their dish for self-confessed chocoholics, 01572 822477, www.marquess exeter.co.uk.

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- SAMPLE DISHES -

presented beautifully

Hambleton Hall always serves perfectly presented dishes like this dessert; golden chocolate with a passion fruit sorbet and honeycomb.

A TREAT FOR TWO

01572 756991, www.hambletonhall.com

It’s hard to beat the Lord Nelson in Oakham, as they serve Belgian chocolate with honeycomb, strawberries, sugar coated dough balls and marshmallows for two. 01572 868340 or see www.knead.pubs.co.uk.

The Crown Hotel in Stamford has a millionaire salted caramel and chocolate tart on its dessert menu as well as a generous cheeseboard and passionfruit cheesecake.

Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk. n Featured dishes are representative examples of our featured chefs’ skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change frequently so dishes are subject to availability. Check each restaurant’s website prior to your visit for an up-to-date menu.

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Ho Ho Ho: Gates Garden Centre’s 360 seat restaurant was created in November 2014, and goes well beyond the remit of garden centre coffee shop. This turkey and cranberry panini is just one of the restaurant’s festive offerings.

s a m t s i r h C

PRESENCE The 360 seat Garden Restaurant at Gates Garden Centre goes well beyond the remit of ‘coffee shop’. It’s a quality restaurant offering brunch, lunch and a host of festive dishes to make Christmas shopping a little more tolerable. Quite simply, the Centre is a retailer unlike any other, and one that we can very much recommend in the run up to Christmas!

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Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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- EATING OUT -

A magical transformation occurs each November. The normally sedentary Mrs Davis eschews her traditional position, prostrate on the sofa, and becomes emboldened with a sense of energy and festive productivity. I’m by no means lazy in the domestic sphere but Christmas preparations are a job I’m happy to leave entirely to her - she is utterly enthusiastic for the season, whereas I’m a grinch in comparison.

Christmas shopping is a dire task, with chilly High Streets, dated pop music played on loop, and wrapping - a task I abhor above all others. I would, I’m certain, be more enthusiastic if I could park up without hassle, shop from one place, remain in the warm, and be able to break up the festive shopping with food, drink and a sit down.

And lo! A Christmas miracle occurs, as Cold Overton’s Gates Garden Centre solves every problem I have with Christmas shopping.

It’s indoors, in the warm. There’s plenty of parking. It’s just a short walk to the car to offload presents. What’s more, the Centre’s giftware department has proper, lovely, original gifts, for absolutely anyone, with no effort needed to find something for any friend or relative.

The place also has 14,000 square feet of Christmas decorations, which, in addition to providing you with all you need to create a lovely looking tree, using one of 12 different themed areas, means I can also leave an excited wife to purchase this year’s decorations, whilst I enjoy at least a couple of hours, on my own, in peace, with a couple of items from the restaurant’s Christmas menus.

decorations

DESIGNER GATES GARDEN CENTRE’S 14,000SQ FT CHRISTMAS DEPARTMENT NOW OPEN If you’ve yet to experience the Christmas decorations department at Gates Garden Centre, please don’t miss out!

Gates Garden Centre has been owned by the family for three generations. Kathy and Nigel Gates have built up the centre and definitely outgrew their last coffee shop.

In November 2014 they opened a new 360 seat restaurant in a dedicated extension.

Whilst there’s provision for homemade cakes, sandwiches and paninis, the Garden Restaurant, as it’s known, is by no means just a coffee shop. Eight of the menu’s ‘favourites’ are pub restaurant inspired dishes, from fish & chips to sausages & mash to a ‘gourmet’ burger and so on. >>

Due to open as Pride goes to press, it offers 14,000sq ft of baubles, tinsel, lights and decorations.

Taking 12 people 1,620 man hours to set up, the department is arranged with 12 different themes from Neon to Highland to Scandi to Victorian, so you can choose your favourite tree, then find everything you need to create that look nearby.

Top: The restaurant’s roast dinners are good value at £9.95, with festive turkey dinners on Sundays throughout December.

Above: Smoked salmon salad.

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- EATING OUT -

>> On Sundays, there’s a very popular provision of roasts, usually with a choice of pork and beef for a reasonable £9.95/head.

That makes the restaurant ideal for a spur of the moment lunch and a trip out to blow the cobwebs away on a cold winter afternoon.

In the run up to Christmas though, turkey dinners on Sundays throughout December enable you to fulfil your Christmas shopping obligations whilst also enjoying a roast dinner, in the warm, with no car parking hassles.

Other festive specials include the Christmas themed turkey and cranberry panini featured on our opening spread, and a very good provision of brunch served until 11am which will, I promise you, incentivise (bribe) any gentleman to accompany you and join in with festive preparations.

The restaurant’s afternoon tea is also popular, both as a way of spending time with friends in the run up to the season, or as a gift for a friend by way of a gift voucher.

In December, mince pies and other festive variations will give the restaurant’s tiered treat a Christmas twist, and if you like your festive season bubbly, you can also add a Prosecco and toast the season with friends.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Garden Centre Open: 8.00am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm, Sunday.

The Garden Restaurant: 9.00am to 4.30pm.

Late Night Shopping: Wednesdays (7th, 14th, 21st) in December, until 8.30pm.

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There’s a huge surge in the number of diners in autumn and winter, with the massive Christmas decoration displays open from 1st October, and the Centre’s reputation for offering excellent Christmas shopping.

And yet, despite the volume of customers, and the necessary presence of over 40 staff in the restaurant alone, organisation is excellent and quality is kept high. Local ingredients include meat from Nelson’s Butchers, locally laid eggs, bread from Hambleton Bakery, and local fruit and veg. With log burners, plaid sofas and Lloyd Loom style chairs & oak tables, The Garden Restaurant is a really nice environment, with good quality food, good service and a robust menu of proper winter comfort food.

If you’ve not visited Gates Garden Centre’s Christmas decoration displays, please do take this as a recommendation, as they’re a real sight to behold. Otherwise, take the hassle out of Christmas shopping and enjoy a trip to what is comfortably one of Rutland’s best retailers. It’s a pretty great place at any time of year, but Christmas is when Gates really does come into its own!

“THERE’S A HUGE SURGE IN THE NUMBER OF DINERS IN AUTUMN AND WINTER, WITH THE MASSIVE CHRISTMAS DECORATION DISPLAYS OPEN FROM 1ST OCTOBER...”

Above: The Centre’s gift departments and 14,000sq ft of decorations take the hassle out of Christmas shopping. It’s all under cover and there’s plenty of free, easy parking!

The 360 seat restaurant and all day brunch.

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Festive: Afternoon teas will be given a festive twist in the run up to Christmas. They’re a post-shopping treat and they can be purchased for friends or family by way of gift vouchers, too.

on the MENU FROM THE GARDEN RESTAURANT’S DAYTIME MENU Afternoon Tea for Two

Tea, finger sandwiches, cakes, two fruit and two plain scones, clotted cream and Brambles preserves £19.95.

Lunch Menu

Gates ‘Big Burger,’ home-made, glazed with mature cheddar cheese, in a bun with mayonnaise, salad, onion rings and chunky chips £8.95.

Trio of traditional Nelson’s Lincolnshire sausages with creamy mash, onion gravy and vegetables £8.50.

Crispy beer battered fish and chips £8.95.

Ploughman’s; home-cooked ham, Stilton, cheddar, local pork pie, salad, coleslaw and crusty bread £8.95.

Festive panini with turkey, cranberry sauce and stuffing, with crisps and salad £6.95.

Sunday Roast

Turkey, beef and pork available throughout December £9.95.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change. n Gates Garden Centre is based on Somerby Road, Cold Overton, Oakham, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk 71

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Record Sales for Japanese Sake...

Wine of the Month

Back in 2000, the UK imported just 412,000 bottles of Sake. Today, that figure is closer to 1,200,000.

Sake sales are booming, so if you’ve yet to try Japan’s national tipple, made from rice, water and koji, now’s the time!

Il Bruciato, Bolgheri, Tuscany Italy £21.95, 14% ABV Warm up your winter with a trip to Tuscany! Il Bruciato’s red is 65% Cab Sav, 20% Merlot, 15% Syrah.

Flavour is determined by the ‘polishing’ of the rice grains, which aims to remove fat and protein to produce a cleaner, frutier sake, or a lower polishing rate to create a more grainy, savoury variant.

Fragrant fruity aromas, particularly plum, followed by delicate mint and green tea notes. On the palate it is full-bodied and smooth with a long finish.

Our recommendation is Akashi-Tai, a Junmai (no added alcohol) 40% milling rate sake at 14% ABV with a lemon-ey flavour, £xxx.

The Wine Cellar AUTUMN IS A SEASON OF MISTS AND MELLOW FRUITFULNESS, SO THIS MONTH HARISH KHANDERIA RECOMMENDS WINES FOR AUTUMN AND INTRODUCES US TO SAKE... Words: Harish Khanderia.

THREE OF THE BEST: FIRESIDE WINES WE THINK ARE PERFECT FOR AUTUMN...

1. Babylon’s Peak ViognierRoussanne from South African £14.75 is a mix of Rhône varieties which produces a wonderfully textured wine, its natural richness supporting apricot, floral and musky aromas, while still finishing neat and dry.

2. A stunning rosé, Provence Miraval has an attractive, soft blush colour and is beautifully bright. On the nose, there are delicate notes of raspberries, peaches and white flowers. It has a premium price point at £22.95, but rewards with a lovely Provençal minerality.

3. Spice up your winter with this 100% Sula Dindori Reserve Shiraz, produced in India’s Maharashtra region. £14.85, 13.5%, for those who like a spicy wine, it’s sweet, with cherry and peppers, and rich dark fruit on the palate.

The Bolgheri DOC, is situated near the coast a hundred kilometres southwest of Florence and covers over 1,000 acres.

Originally a rosé only vineyard, Antinori’s Guado al Tasso estate débuted their provision of red wine with a 1990 vintage. n

desserts JUST

Winter is the time for pies, crumbles and lashings of custard, or for gooey chocolate fondants that melt in the middle. Pair them with one of these two dessert wines, and enjoy an after dinner tipple. n Essensia Orange Muscat from California USA, with a bitter orange marmalade flavour and apricots on the palate, £13.95.

Masi Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy with kirsch-soaked cherries and a fruity but sweet taste £22.99. 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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- RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR -

WIN FREE MEALS OUT ...with Pride’s Restaurant of the Year Awards 2016!

Words: Rob Davis.

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We’re seeking your help to find Stamford and Rutland’s very best restaurants. In return, we’re offering the chance to win free meals out in 2017, as we launch this year’s Restaurant of the Year competition...

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Main: Toad in the Hole Sean Hope style, at The Olive Branch. Clipsham.

Left: Hambleton Hall was named one of our three Restaurants of the Year .

Dine out for free in 2017, as we once more invite you to nominate your favourite restaurant, bistro or coffee shop and to name your ‘food hero.’

It’s time to launch our annual Restaurant of the Year competition, and the way it works is simple. We ask our readers for vote for Stamford and Rutland’s best restaurants and food related businesses, then randomly select one of our readers to enjoy free dining our at our six prize partner restaurants throughout 2017.

“We ask our readers to nominate their favourite restaurants for a very simple reason,” says Rob Davis. “It gives us a much more objective, comprehensive

overview of where our readers like to dine, and frees the awards from any commercial bias.”

“You can vote for any restaurant, regardless of whether they advertise or not, and because our readers are based right across the county, and have a wide range of budgets, we’ll see entries from all over Stamford and Rutland, from village pubs to fine dining restaurants.”

“As always, we’ve divided up our awards into three categories. We’re seeking nominations for our readers’ Restaurant of the Year, for our flagship award. These can be pubs, restaurants and hotels offering daytime and evening dining.” >>

WE’VE THREE CATEGORIES FOR YOU TO VOTE IN RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR, BISTRO OR COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR AND ‘FOOD HERO’

Above: Brian Baker’s chocolate fondant at Lyddington’s Marquess of Exeter.

Above/Left: Kilworth House, Leicestershire.

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Main: Hambleton Hall.

Centre: Sean Hope of Clipsham’s Olive Branch was named our Food Hero last year.

>> “Good food needn’t be expensive; it just needs to be well-executed, with local ingredients and a good dining environment.

For that reason we’re not simply seeking the county’s ‘posh’ restaurants, but pub restaurants too.”

profiled our partner restaurants opposite for a sneak preview of where you could be dining next year.

“Our Restaurant of the Year competition is one of my favourite features,” says Rob. “I look forward to counting the votes each year and always enjoy the diversity of nominations.”

“Next, we’re seeking nominations for our Bistro or Coffee Shop of the year category.

These are venues which offer lighter bites, casual dining or simply the chance to enjoy coffee and a slice of cake.”

“And finally, we ask our readers to nominate a county ‘food hero.’ This can be a local farmer, food producer or a chef who goes out of their way to be a good ambassador for the county’s dining community or local

“They serve to provide us with suggestions for future features in our magazines and help us to keep in mind which restaurants are valued by our readers.”

food producers, someone who’s passionate about the county in which they live and work, and about quality food and drink.”

When our nominations are collated, we’ll award three awards in each category, and reveal the results in our January edition.

Each winner will receive a plaque to display outside their business, too.

In addition, we’ll select one reader from our Lincolnshire magazine and one reader from our Rutland magazine to enjoy meals out at one of our six partner restaurants.

Each meal is for two diners, with alcohol at the discretion of each venue, and we’ve 76

You can vote by post, simply by filling out the form overleaf, or you can visit our website to cast your vote electronically. >>

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- RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR -

Main: The White Horse at Baston and its main dining room.

Dine Out for Free in 2017

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT, AND YOU COULD WIN FREE DINING OUT AT ALL OF THE FOLLOWING RESTAURANTS...

The Cherry House, Werrington

The Crown Hotel, Stamford

Owned by Andrew Corrigan and set in a beautiful 400 year old thatched cottage, you’ll enjoy a beautiful setting and fine dining just a stone’s throw from Peterborough at the excellent Cherry House.

There are five venues in the Knead Pubs group, including the Lord Nelson, profiled in this edition.

However, we love Stamford’s Crown Hotel in particular for its character, funky interior, and excellent dining.

Church St, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6QF

01733 571721 www. cherryhouse restaurant.co.uk

All Saints Place, Stamford PE9 2AG

01780 763136 www.kneadpubs.co.uk /our-pubs/the-crown-hotel

Barnsdale Lodge Hotel

The White Horse, at Baston

The Finch’s Arms, Hambleton

Loch Fyne Seafood Restaurant, Elton

Formerly a farmhouse, Barnsdale Lodge was converted by Thomas Noel in 1989 and has since gained a reputation for relaxed luxury.

Excellent dining in the garden room, with a warm welcome guaranteed.

We love The White Horse at Baston for its relaxed approach to quality dining.

Ben & Germaine Larter preside over a beautifully refurbished whose food output is both creative and flawlessly executed.

The Finch’s Arms is a 17th century pub restaurant enjoying an enviable position on the Hambleton peninsula.

The pub serves everything from barn snacks to three course meals, and use only fresh local ingredients.

The Loch Fyne Restaurant in Elton used to be an old dairy and boasts a great rustic but classy feel.

Just 10 minutes outside Peterborough. The restaurant has an à la carte menu of fresh and seasonal dishes.

The Avenue, Exton, Oakham LE15 8AH

01572 724678 www.barnsdale lodge.co.uk

Church St, Baston, Peterborough PE6 9PE

01778 560923 www.thewhitehorse baston.co.uk

Eastgate, Lincoln, LN2 1PN

01572 756575 www.finchs arms.co.uk

The Old Dairy, Elton, Cambs PE8 6SH

01832 280298 www.lochfyne seafoodandgrill.co.uk

n By voting for your food hero, favourite coffee shop or bistro and nominating your Restaurant of the Year, you’ll automatically be entered into our prize draw to win dining out at each of our partner restaurants in 2017. Cast your vote by filling in the form over the page, or vote online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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- RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR -

$ Welcome to Rutland Pride Magazine’s food awards, in which we want our readers to nominate their favourite restaurant, bistro/coffee shop and the county’s ‘Food Hero.’ This entry form will ensure your vote is counted, and in return, we’ll pick one reader at random to win meals out at our partner restaurants in 2017...

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Vote for your favourite restaurant, and a favourite bistro or coffee shop below. We’d also like you to nominate a ‘Food Hero’ — perhaps a butcher, baker, food producer, chef or similar: Restaurant of the Year (name & location):............................................ ........................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................

Bistro/Coffee Shop of the Year (name & location): ............................... ........................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................

Food Hero of the Year (inc. reason for your nomination): .................... ........................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................

$

...........................................................................................................

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Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Photocopies/multiple entries will not be counted. Competition is available to anyone in the county or surrounding area. You must not be personally or professionally allied with nominations. Votes received for each venue will be counted up to determine the eventual three winners for each category and seven runners-up. The Editor’s decision as to our competition winners is final and further terms and conditions may apply.

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Please provide your name, address, and telephone number (we will need to contact you if you’re our lucky winner!):

Name: ................................................................................................

Address: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................

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Postcode:............................................................................................

Telephone:..........................................................................................

Send your entry to: Rutland Pride Restaurant of the Year Awards 2016, Pride Magazines, Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington, Boston, Lincolnshire PE20 3QF.

We’ll pick one voter at random to win complimentary meals in 2017. If one of your nominations wins, we may want to quiz you on why you voted for them!

Alternatively, you can vote on our website by visiting

www.pridemagazines.co.uk/vote

Closing Date: Tuesday 1st November 2016

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- RECIPES -

Sticky Cinder Toffee Cake The Great British Bakeoff may be approaching its finalé as Pride goes to press, but you can still get your baking fix with delicious recipes from The Clandestine Cake Club: A Year of Cake by Lynn Hill on the Quercus imprint, available now in county bookshops £20, 100 pages...

Serves 12 400g dried prunes 150ml hot water 350g self-raising flour 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 160g unsalted butter 200g soft light brown sugar or light muscovado sugar 100g soft dark brown sugar or dark muscovado sugar 4 large eggs, lightly beaten 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinder Toffee: vegetable oil, for the tin 150g caster sugar 75g golden syrup 11⁄2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the Cinder Toffee: 55g unsalted butter, chopped into pieces 175g light muscovado sugar 225ml double cream 1 tbsp golden syrup

“Ensure your Guy Fawkes’ Night goes with a bang by baking this spectacular sticky toffee cake Adding bicarbonate of soda to hot caramel can create quite an explosion of bubbles!”

Guy Fawkes is the most famous conspirator in the notorious ‘gunpowder plot’. On the 5th November 1605 he and his fellow accomplices attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate James I and his family.

When the plot was uncovered, Fawkes was sentenced to a traitor’s death – to be ‘hanged, drawn and quartered’ – and bonfires were burned around the country in celebration of the king’s lucky escape.

The date became an occasion of thanksgiving and celebration, and nowadays effigies of Guy Fawkes are burned on bonfires around the UK accompanied by extravagant firework displays.

Ensure your Guy Fawkes’ Night goes with a bang by baking this spectacular sticky toffee cake.

Be careful when making the cinder toffee – adding the bicarbonate of soda to hot caramel can create quite an explosion of bubbles!

1. Start by making the cinder toffee. Grease and line a shallow baking tray. Gently heat the sugar and golden syrup in a large heavy-based pan until all the sugar has dissolved. Turn up the heat and rapidly boil – do not stir the mixture, just swirl the pan if it starts to go darker on one side.

2. Keep boiling until the mixture turns a lovely golden brown colour – it should take approximately 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Add the bicarbonate of soda and stir for a few seconds, being very careful as the mixture will bubble, fizz and expand quite a bit. Tip the mixture into the baking tray and leave to set.

3. Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4.

Grease and line two 23cm cake tins.

4. Put the prunes in a bowl and cover with the hot water. Leave to soak for 20 minutes or so, then blend until very smooth.

5. Sift the flour and bicarbonate of soda into a bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugars until pale and fluffy.

6. Add the egg a little at a time, adding a spoonful of flour between additions to prevent any curdling. Fold in the remaining flour, add the prune mixture and vanilla extract and stir thoroughly.

7. Pour into the tins and bake for 35–40 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre of the cakes comes out clean. Remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tins.

8. To make the caramel sauce, place the butter, sugar and half the cream in a saucepan and melt over a medium heat. Once melted, turn up the heat slightly and bring to the boil, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Add the golden syrup and let the sauce bubble away for a couple of minutes. Remove from the heat and leave to cool a little before stirring in the remaining cream.

9. For the buttercream, beat the butter, icing sugar and vanilla extract for around 5 minutes with an electric whisk and add 4 tablespoons of the cooled caramel sauce.

10. To assemble, put the cinder toffee in a bag and bash it to break it up ready for decorating. Remove the cooled cakes from the tins. Spread 4 heaped tablespoons of buttercream over the base layer and place the second layer on top. Spread a thin layer of the buttercream over the whole cake (leave enough buttercream for piping round the edge of the top of the cake), then press the cinder toffee crumbs around the sides. Transfer the remaining buttercream to a disposable piping bag fitted with a rosette nozzle and pipe small stars all the way round the edge of the top of the cake. Fill the top of the cake with larger smashed-up pieces of cinder toffee and drizzle caramel sauce over the buttercream stars.

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- RECIPES -

Chocolate Orange Cake...

The Great British Bakeoff may be approaching its finalé as Pride goes to press, but you can still get your baking fix with delicious recipes from The Clandestine Cake Club: A Year of Cake by Lynn Hill on the Quercus imprint, available now in county bookshops £20, 100 pages...

Serves 12-14

225g self-raising flour 11⁄2 tsp baking powder 225g caster sugar 225g unsalted butter, softened 4 medium eggs grated zest of 1 orange, plus 1 tbsp juice 1 tbsp cocoa powder

For the chocolate orange icing 150g icing sugar 1 tbsp cocoa powder 3 tbsp freshly-squeezed orange juice

Members have often said how joining the Clandestine Cake Club has made their lives so much richer (beyond the butter and sugar!), and some say that baking has helped to transport you away from troubling thoughts and offer you a creative outlet.

Why not spend a few hours baking this easy, zingy chocolate cake with friends? Not only is the combination of endorphin-packed chocolate and zesty orange a nice boost, you will also have the uplifting satisfaction of sharing your creation with others and seeing their enjoyment as they get stuck in.

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4.

Grease and line a 23cm springform cake tin.

2. Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Add the sugar, butter and eggs and beat until pale and creamy. Divide the mixture evenly between two bowls.

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3. Add the orange zest and juice to one half of the cake mixture and stir gently until combined.

4. Dissolve the cocoa powder in 2 tablespoons of hot water, then add to the second half of the cake mixture and stir gently until combined.

5. Spoon the mixtures randomly into the prepared baking tin then swirl with a knife for a marbled effect. Bake in the oven for 35–45 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then turn out on to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. To prepare the icing, sift the icing sugar and cocoa powder into a bowl, then add the orange juice a tablespoon at a time and stir until the mixture is thick but still drizzles off a knife.

Spread the icing over the top and sides of the cake and leave to set before serving. This cake keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container.

n The Clandestine Cake Club meets every 4-6 weeks in ‘secret’ locations around the town.

There are Stamford, Louth, Lincoln and Newark clubs. New members are welcome, see www.clandestinecakeclub.co.uk.

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- CHRISTMAS GIFTS -

GIFTS s a m t s i r h C

Celebrate the season and give your loved on a gift they’ll treasure courtesy of the county’s best independent retailers.

This month we’ve asked them to suggest thoughtful gifts for ladies, gents and younger members of the family too...

Compiled by: Tilly Wilkinson

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- CHRISTMAS GIFTS -

Mug Emma Bridgewater at Night Baby Mug from Sarah Harding Interiors in Uppingham, £14.95 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

Silk Scarves Silk scarves come in various designs at Duo Boutique in Oakham, £35, 01572 722116, www.duoboutique.co.uk.

Biscuits Cartwright & Butler biscuits in biscuit tins are sold at Oakham’s Otters Smokehouse and Deli, 01572 756481, www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk.

Cushion large floral Voyage cushion from Gates Garden Centre in Market Overton, £28.99, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

Fine Art Charles Walter Simpson, 1885 - 1971, Wigeons in Winter, Oil on Board, £3750, 01780 756667, www.nigelrhodesfineart.com.

Handbag Kilim handbag from Oakham Rugs in the Maltings in Oakham, £56, 01572 724441, www.oakhamrugs.co.uk.

Waistcoat Waistcoat in Brown Oak also available in matching jacket from Butler Stewart, £165 07941 513650, www.butlerstewart.co.uk.

Grow Your Own Eggling Wild Strawberry £7, Growbag Zinnias £10, Dwarf Cosmos £15 and Seedboms £3.50, 01858 464838, www.farndonfields.co.uk.

Shrug Shrug by Ruby & Ed available in Fawn and Smoke faux fur at Duo Boutique in Oakham, £55, 01572 722116, www.duoboutique.co.uk.

Vase Japanese Cloisonné Jardiniere from Nigel Rhodes Fine Art in Stamford, £1,950, 01780 756667, www.nigelrhodesfineart.com.

Bracelet Swarovski Crystaldust Black Crystal Single Bracelet from You & Beyond in Stamford, £59 01780 755996, www.youandbeyond.co.uk.

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Home Décor Hanging heart with bells from Barefoot Living, part of Barefoot Retreats, £5, 01485 512245, www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

Boots Paul Green navy suede shoe boot from CoCo in Oakham, £135, 01572 757646, www.cocooakham.co.uk.

Doorstop Patchwork Hedgehog Doorstop from Sarah Harding Interiors in Uppingham, £27, 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

Bag Metal Trim Pod with optional shoulder chain by Olga Berg at Duo Boutique in Oakham, £69.99, 01572 722116, www.duoboutique.co.uk.

Hamper Get a hamper with a selection of local produce from Oakham’s Otters Smokehouse and Deli £call, 01572 756481, www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk.

Make-up Bags Shruti large My Face is in the Bag bag, £11.99, small Bag of Tricks bag, £10.99, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

Watch Breitling Galactic 29 SleekT Rose Gold Black Diamond from Andrew Michaels, £18,250, 01636 679638, www.andrewmichaels.co.uk.

Portrait Sitting with Rutland Photographic Studio, Oakham, £95 inc free framed 10 x 8” print.

01572 868485, www.rutlandphotographic.uk.

Ring Laura Whitmore Turquoise Plectrum Silver Daisy Ring from You & Beyond in Stamford, £45, 01780 755996, www.youandbeyond.co.uk.

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- CHRISTMAS GIFTS -

Rutland Pies Locally made game, meat, pork or dessert pies delivered anywhere in the UK £call.

01572 722058, www.rutlandpie.co.uk.

Beer Bottles of locally brewed beers sold at Farndon Fields in Market Harborough, £call, 01858 464838, www.farndonfields.co.uk.

Jeans Mens and ladies moleskin jeans, Made in England from 100% cotton sold at Butler Stewart, £69, 07941 513650, www.butlerstewart.co.uk.

ALL WRAPPED UP

CHRISTMAS TIPS Prevent wrapping paper from unravelling with kitchen roll tubes.

Mens Cosmetics Shaving brush £45, razor £40, manicure set £49.95, cufflinks £17.95, 01780 755378, www.robinsonsofstamford.com.

A rotary cutter cuts long straight or decorative edges on wrapping paper. Use it with a ruler to get quick, even cuts; swap out the blades to create decorative pinked and wavy edges.

Always use double-sided tape to hide nasty looking streaks of sticky tape.

Candle Scented Soy Wax Candles from Barefoot Living, part of Barefoot Retreats, £30 large, £15 small, 01328 738100, www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

Colour code your wrapping: Assign each family member a different colour paper, and you won’t even need gift tags.

When wrapping soft items like scarves, cut a piece of cardboard to and place the garment on top before wrapping.

Tantalus Decanter faux tortoiseshell with silver mounts circa 1920 from Nigel Rhodes Fine Art, £3,750, 01780 756667, www.nigelrhodesfineart.com.

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The secret to a beautifully wrapped box? Not using too much paper, which causes bulky, sloppy folds. Before trimming, wrap the paper around the box - the ends should overlap just a couple of inches.

Socks Paul Smith signature stripe socks triple pack gift boxed set from Sinclairs, £40, 01780 765421, www.sinclairsonline.co.uk.

Satchel Kilim Handbag from Oakham Rugs in the Maltings in Oakham, £39, 01572 724441, www.oakhamrugs.co.uk.

Notebook handbound in Stamford, available in four sizes and nine colours and can be personalised, from £14.95, 01780 762550, www.stamfordnotebooks.co.uk.

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PAD Rutland’s Bachelor - RUTLAND HOMES -

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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This month we visit a contemporary property designed and built in 2007 and lovingly lived in by Graeme Ough, a local finance broker, for the past 10 years.

We discovered what his modern bachelor pad has to offer...

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1 WEST LANE, SEATON Number 1, West Lane. It could be the name of a property in Central London, overlooking the Shard or St Paul’s Cathedral, maybe.

Instead, Number 1 West Lane in Rutland has an even better view in the eyes of many, especially those of Graeme Ough, current owner, moving from the busy city life of London to enjoy the panoramic views of our rural county ten years ago.

Graeme is a finance broker whose parents live in Leicestershire, and he ventured out to discover London at a young age but soon came back after deciding city life wasn’t for him, as he preferred a more relaxed rural way of living.

“I was initially attracted to the barn conversion because of its absolutely stunning views,” says Graeme in an interview with Pride.

“I WAS INITIALLY ATTRACTED TO THE BARN CONVERSION BECAUSE OF ITS ABSOLUTELY STUNNING VIEWS..”

Above: The garden has a veranda, lawn area and a pergola that leads to decking, a seating area, another seating area and the games room (right).

“The home is south-facing, looking over Welland Valley. The building was part of a really run down farm that was actually an eyesore in the village.”

“When the property developers bought the farm, it really appealed to me mainly for the view and great village location. It also meant I could design my home so it’s entirely bespoke.”

The kitchen has two double-doors that let in lots of light from outside, and some very modern appliances. There’s an integrated oven and microwave, but also a built-in coffee machine and beer on draught. The cabinets are also bespoke and made from glass.

Location: Uppingham 3 miles, Stamford 11 miles, Oakham 9 miles.

Style: A lovingly restored barn with modern appliances throughout.

Bedrooms: Four bedrooms, three with en suites.

Receptions: Four, arranged as a sitting room, living room, dining room and large entrance hall.

Other Features: A veranda, an outbuilding used as a games room and an integrated sound system on the ground floor.

Guide Price: £695,000.

“The garden that the home looks onto was a mud slope when I first moved to the property.

From looking at the garden, you would think I had quite a passion for a horticulture, but I really don’t! I’m more a lover of gardens 91

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rather than gardening. It took a lot of time to get it to where it is now - I planted all of the plants in the garden myself - but it doesn’t require much maintenance and I have a built in watering system too.”

Above: The kitchen is very modern with modern appliances and black glass cabinetry.

Also in the garden, there’s an outbuilding that is used as a sort of games room. There’s a pool table and a bar, providing a nice place to relax away from the house or as a good place to host parties.

This was built five years ago.

“What I like about the design of the property is that it’s all on split levels. The garden is on three levels and the home is on three or four levels with small steps leading you from one room to the other; there are no single one level floors which breaks up the flow of the house quite nicely.”

Other features Graeme has introduced to the barn conversion include the different coloured radiators bought in from France, that make it a little bit different and fit to the colour scheme in each room better than an awkward cream coloured radiator.

There is also underfloor heating across the entire ground floor, perfect for this time of year when wooden and tiled floors can be cold for bare feet.

“THERE’S AN OUTBUILDING THAT IS USED AS A GAMES ROOM. THERE’S A POOL TABLE AND A BAR, PROVIDING A NICE PLACE TO RELAX AND ENTERTAIN GUESTS DURING SUMMER...”

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“I’ve also introduced an integrated sound system across the ground floor,” says Graeme.

“This allows me to listen to my music in every room, and not have just one speaker in one room trying to reach the entire house.

It’s definitely a feature I’ll miss along with the mirror TV in the bathroom!”

Graeme is leaving the home and says that he will miss all of the modern features that most homes wouldn’t be able to offer, but he will be upsizing. He won’t be leaving Rutland with its panoramic views, but he feels he’s enjoyed the 10 years he has lived on West Lane, and it is now time to move on to another project. He believes the next owners will enjoy the village life and views the most here.

Right: The sitting room has double doors that open onto the veranda and is beautifully styled to the barn conversion.

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

“THERE IS ALSO UNDERFLOOR HEATING ACROSS THE ENTIRE GROUND FLOOR, PERFECT FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR WHEN WOODEN AND TILED FLOORS CAN BE COLD ON BARE FEET...”

Left: The lounge area with long and comfy sofas looking onto the garden.

Below: The dining room with double doors that open onto the garden.

Bottom: One of the four beautifully designed bedrooms in the property.

n 1 West Lane, Seaton, is currently on the market with Moores Estate Agents. Call 01572 821935 or visit www.mooresestateagents.com for more information.

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LISHED TAB ES

EST

LOCAL CO

MP AN

Y

Bespoke and Handmade Kitchens

1981 5 YEARS -3

• Over 30 room settings on display including the latest finishes...

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens...

• Special discounts and unrivalled service...

The Area’s Largest Independent Kitchen Showroom

The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA

T: 01780 755855

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E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

ESCAPE TO THE

COUNTRY Words: Rob Davis.

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This beautiful Grade II listed former rectory has been beautifully updated with a state of the art kitchen and other luxury features. It will prove the perfect family home for its next owners and is now on the market...

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ONE, THE VILLAGE, ORTON LONGUEVILLE near PETERBOROUGH Location location location is an estate agent’s cliché, but in the case of this grade II listed former rectory, built in the 1870s and sold off by the church in the 1960s, it couldn’t prove truer.

The country house is arranged over three floors and features traditional Georgian architecture; lofty, symmetrical and grand.

It’s been the home of Polly and Robert since 2010, and is the ideal compromise between a house in the country, and one located within easy reach of good infrastructure.

“I love running, and because Ferry Meadows is just down the road, easily reached, I spend a lot of time admiring its parkland.”

“It’s difficult to believe that the city of Peterborough, though, is so close too.

Whether you’re looking to put your feet up

“PERIOD PROPERTIES AROUND THE CITY ARE SO FEW AND FAR BETWEEN; WE WERE SOLD THE MINUTE WE SET EYES ON IT!”

and enjoy country life at the weekend, or you’re looking for decent shops and restaurants, whatever you need is close by, which is really convenient.”

“We moved to the property from Stamford, and Peterborough was the ideal location for commuting, but period properties around the city are few and far between, so when this one came onto the market we were sold the minute we set eyes on it.”

Location: Peterborough seven minutes; Stamford 18 minutes.

Style: Grade II listed Georgian former rectory.

Bedrooms: Eight, with four en suites.

Receptions: Four, currently arranged as drawing room, dining room, snug and living kitchen.

Other Features: Stabling plus three garages, utility.

Guide Price: £1,075,000.

“We have been really lucky because there have only been three or four previous owners since its life as the village rectory, and the last owner in particular had done a beautiful job of renovating the place. It was in great condition but we wanted to put our own mark on the place so we extended the 97

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>> kitchen and created a new living kitchen, working with Lauren Builders of Peterborough and Wychwood Cabinet Makers of Kettering.

Above: Bespoke joinery extends to the snug, which also features one of two wood burners.

“We created a stone extension with a Vale Garden Houses roof lantern, and chose solid oak cabinetry with a leather effect matte granite work surface. We’ve specified Miele appliances - steam oven, dishwasher and refrigeration, and we’ve a four oven Aga in blue.”

“We also updated the bathrooms with tiles from Fired Earth and Villeroy & Boch fittings, and commissioned a stone fire surround

by Tegerdines Stonemasons and log burners by Fotheringhay Fires.”

With the large living kitchen, two formal reception rooms and a less formal snug, the house has plenty of room, and from the moment you step through the door, the entrance hall with its perfectly Georgian mustard wallpaper and flagstones gives a good idea of the taste and quality of materials that Polly has invested in the house. Yet, for its age, there’s still a wealth of modern features like an en suite bathroom and large dressing room to the master bedrooms, and a area seconded for fitness equipment on the second floor.

Outside, too, the acre of grounds has been neatly maintained with the couple clearing some of the thicker parts of the property’s

“THE GARDENS WRAP RIGHT AROUND THE HOUSE SO THERE ARE NICE VIEWS FROM ANY WINDOW, AND NATURAL LIGHT IN DIFFERENT ROOMS OF THE HOUSE ALL DAY LONG...”

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wooded area to make room for formal areas of lawn and neat borders with clipped hedges. “The gardens wrap right around the house and that’s nice too,” says Polly.

“It means there are nice views from any window, and equally, natural light in different rooms of the house throughout the day.”

“It’s a really lovely family home, and though work commitments are dictating a house move, I’ll miss the place very much. I really hope the next owners will love the place as much as I have!”

Right: The kitchen has been created in oak and features Miele appliances.

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

“OUTSIDE, THE ACRE OF GROUNDS HAS BEEN NEATLY MAINTAINED WITH THE COUPLE CLEARING SOME OF THE THICKER PARTS OF THE WOODED AREA TO MAKE ROOM FOR FORMAL AREAS OF LAWN...”

Left: The house was sold by the Church of England in the 1960s.

Above: The property’s main drawing room.

Below: The house has eight bedrooms and three en suites.

n One The Village, Orton Longueville is currently on the market with Fine & Country, Stamford, for £1,075,000.

Call 01780 750 200 or see www.fineandcountry.com.

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Creative Touch INTERIORS & DESIGN BESPOKE SOFT FURNISHINGS, MADE IN OUR OWN WORKROOM

Beautifully Bespoke Curtains, Blinds & Accessories, Wallpaper, Paint, Carpets and Lighting...

01778 345777 www.creativetouchinteriors.co.uk | info@creativetouchinteriors.co.uk

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Furnishing Fine

INTERIORS THE TIMELESS BEAUTY OF FINE ART MEETS SMART INTERIOR DESIGN AT STAMFORD’S NIGEL RHODES, AS THE PROFESSIONAL FINE ART DEALER AND FURNISHINGS EXPERT CONSIDERS THE ‘WOW’ FACTOR… Words: Henrietta Clavering.

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- FINE ART -

Furnishing and decorating a beautiful home is a journey to be enjoyed. It opens up opportunities for learning and gaining insight into history and styles, design and art. Once clients embark down this road they gain new interests, knowledge and experiences and their home becomes their own utopia for themselves and their families.

Falling in love with your house, cherishing and restoring it’s individual characteristics, or giving it a new, updated sense of style and comfort are all reasons to call upon the experts.

Working with clients for however long they need, Nigel brings to the table a wealth of knowledge in fine art, antiques and furnishings, placing only the very best quality works and items that fit with the style and design of the home and that give clients the ‘wow’ factor they want.

Whether for a barn conversion or an Old Rectory, getting the right pieces for a home, positioning them in the best places, lighting them correctly are all aspects that need expert attention. A room with a vaulted ceiling for example, is the perfect setting for something really substantial.

Anything too small or too insignificant or of lesser quality in such a space would be lost and not do justice to the space or make the right statement. Beautiful spaces need beautiful things. Whether it is stone or wood flooring, marble or stonework, garden design or the furnishing of the interiors, Nigel brings to his clients a team of people who will deliver exactly what they need, whether for a large or a small property.

He has worked for many years with experts in the fields of architectural design and building who have undertaken the restoration and renovation on important houses and estates. Every type of property deserves time and consideration. At the gallery in Stamford, you can see examples

of the quality of furnishings, antiques and art that we source for our clients.

Once we have met and discussed your home and what you want to do with it, Nigel will arrange to visit the property and get to know you and your family’s tastes and budgets.

This gives an idea of what styles, eras, periods will work. Nigel can then pull together his team to address all aspects of the project, from the gardens, the stone work, the soft furnishings while he himself sources the art and antiques to give your home the best quality you want.

“Tastes and styles vary, as do Budgets. Like homes, they can be big or small. Things go in and out of fashion all the time, which is why Nigel’s 35 years of building up contacts in the world of Fine Art, Antiques and Furnishing can give clients access to buy things they perhaps wouldn’t think of or be able to find at those prices. “I had scoured every auction house and every dealer and most of the fairs too, and I still could not find what you presented us with.”

fine art expert

NIGEL RHODES For over 30 years Nigel has been buying and selling fine art and antiques for clients of any level and with a wide variety of interests.

Sourcing works that have the four central elements of composition, condition, provenance and quality, can be difficult, with supply becoming more and more lim- ited while the demand grows.

Finding such works of real quality is what Nigel does best, using his far reaching contacts, experienced eye and knowledge, these works often go straight out the door into client’s homes.

Over the years, he has never had a client come back disappointed.

What they acquire, through Nigel, they fall in love with!

Opposite: George I G. Fountaine 1727. Above: ‘Bacchus’ Richard Buckner (1812-1883); Loch Lomond, Alfred East RA (1849-1944); Lake & Mountain Landscape, Alfred East RA (1849-1944); Still Life, Oliver Clare (1853-1927). Right: Nigel Rhodes.

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- FINE ART -

AT THE GALLERY ON STAMFORD’S AT MARTINS, YOU CAN SEE EXAMPLES OF THE QUALITY OF FURNISHINGS, ANTIQUES AND ART THAT WE SOURCE FOR PEOPLE... >> At Nigel Rhodes Fine Art we cater for modern, contemporary interiors as well as the classic and traditional. Matching an original van der Rohe chair with a gilt framed 17th century portrait makes for a stunning combination of modern and classic, as each matches the other in name, style and quality so they sit perfectly together.

A pair of 1920’s Aalto chairs sitting beneath an 18th century landscape, or the black leather of a Corbusier sofa beneath a 17th Dutch portrait such as Miereveldt – is a really original way of furnishing your home catering for young and old, modern and traditional.

“We would never have the collection we have today without your help. You have created our utopia,” remarked a client. And, after working with Nigel on their home, a client writes: “I would rather live in a rented home surrounded by beautiful things with heart and soul than live in a beautiful house that is empty and soulless.” n

NB: Thanks to Stamford’s NGI Design for allowing us to photograph their contemporary furniture and accessories; www.ngidesign.co.uk.

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Above: Doge’s Palace Edward Pritchett (1808-1894).

Below: Open Air Cafe, Alberto Morrocco (1917-1998).

Right/Top: Portrait of a Man 1625, Michiel Jansz van Miereveldt (1567-1641).

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AFFORDABLE ART THIS CHRISTMAS

Nigel Rhodes hosts a celebration of contemporary art, which can be in your home in time for Christmas...

Nigel Rhodes would like to invite you to an exhibition of affordable prints & multiples by modern and contemporary artists on how at the Stamford Gallery from November 1st. These works have been carefully selected and considered, priced from ÂŁ250 upwards, framed or

unframed by well known artists such as Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, Nancy Fouts, Sir Peter Blake, Sarah Pope and Patrick Hughes.

Everybody loves something original on their walls and these are well known names at reachable prices.

n Contemporary Prints for Christmas takes place with Nigel Rhodes from 1st November – 3rd January. Nigel Rhodes Fine Art, High St, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 756667 or see www.nigelrhodesfineart.com.

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Solving the property puzzle Rutland Pride talks to leading property expert Kate Vincent from Garrington about how buyers and sellers are successfully overcoming the challenge of moving home in the local property market Historically, moving home seemed quite straight forward; place your current home on the market for sale and find a buyer whilst spending time sifting through the abundant choice of alternative homes for sale and find the right one to purchase. Fast forward to today’s market and following multiple revisions to stamp duty, shock effects of election and referendum results, and available properties for sale at record low levels, the market is no longer free flowing and the process of moving home is now far from straight forward. Kate explains how she is helping clients overcome the challenge.

Kate, how do you help clients move home and what do you do that they could not do themselves?

“Garrington has for the last 20 years become well known, both locally and nationally, acting as professional property finders; in short we save clients time, hassle and money in finding the right property to purchase using our extensive contacts and knowledge of the property market.

However, over recent years as the market has changed so has our role evolved far more towards being a client’s strategic property advisor; coordinating all aspects of their property requirements in an efficient manner based on expert knowledge. This level of clarity, knowledge and experience are normally the missing elements preventing someone from moving home and spending months agonising on what to do for the best.”

Sounds impressive, but what does this mean for someone wanting to move?

“It means that a client can benefit from having someone truly independent on their side, that spends time properly understanding their full needs and then is able to create a plan that is going to ensure they achieve their goals. The advice

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is objective, takes market conditions into account, client priorities and is realistic in terms of what can be achieved - both in terms of property prices and timescales.”

Can you give us an example of how this has helped one of your clients move home and the difference you made?

“We have recently helped a client move locally who had owned their existing home for many years. They were wishing to downsize now their children had all ‘flown the nest’, cash in their equity and buy an easier property to manage

Kate Vincent Garrington

“Clarity, knowledge and experience are normally the missing elements...” with a smaller garden so they could enjoy more foreign travel. Having looked tentatively at homes for several months they had become disconcerted by the lack of choice and the advice from local selling agents that their own home ‘would sell very quickly and they might have to rent’.”

“This feedback left them equally uncertain as

whether to sell first, or try to find a property to purchase. After being referred to us by one of their friends who had previously used Garrington, we were able to assist with advice on the best strategy and timing for selling, the selection of the right estate agent to work with whilst conducting a proactive property search and presenting suitable options to buy. During the search a buyer was identified for their existing home who offered flexibility on timescales as they were already in rental accommodation. This in turn gave us the time needed to find the right property for them to purchase, leading to a successful move. We made a critical difference by formulating the right plan based on their circumstances and gave their moving plans shape and direction, then made it all happen for them.”

What sort of clients do you work with and what do your services cost?

“We work with a wide range of clients covering a variety of budgets. This includes people both upsizing and downsizing their homes, first time buyers, investors, families relocating, holiday home buyers and people retiring. We obviously tailor our services around the needs of each client and focus very much on a positive client working relationship, not just the transaction. By way of example, we have assisted three generations from one family and have another client about to embark on their ninth investment property acquisition with our assistance. Our fees are equally tailored to a client’s needs and the services they require from us, but on many occasions can become self-funding based on the price reductions we may achieve when agreeing a purchase.”

To learn more about Garrington’s services contact Kate Vincent: Tel: 01780 408377 Email: info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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OUNDLE CARPETS & CURTAINS –––– the elegant way to choose –––– CARPETS, WOOD & VINYL FLOORING. READY MADE AND HAND MADE CURTAINS AND BLINDS. ALL FOR HOME & BUSINESS PREMISES

Unit 5 Eastwood Road, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4DF Carpets - 01832 275009 / Curtains - 01832 273078 www.oundlecarpetsandcurtains.co.uk SHOWROOMS OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

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HOMES Gift for Friends and WITH PRESENTS FOR FRIENDS AND ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR HOME, UPPINGHAM’S SARAH HARDING INTERIORS WILL PROVIDE A TOUCH OF LUXURY THIS WINTER FROM SOFT FRAGRANCES TO FLICKERING CANDLES, TO THOUGHTFUL AND UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS...

Words & Images: Rob Davis

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If you’ve a loved one who means a lot to you, finding a unique and individual gift is a real obligation at Christmas.

Fortunately, Sarah Harding Interiors in Uppingham isn’t just the home of bespoke soft furnishings, but for gifts and accessories too.

If you’re seeking a present that’s extra special, visit the retailer’s studio in the town’s Market Place to find a range of fragrances and candles for the home, handbags and purses, mugs and kitchenware from names like Emma Bridgewater, plus lots of cushions, throws and other ways to warm up your winter.

Whether you’re seeking a finishing touch for your own home or a gift for a friend or relative, we can definitely recommend a browse through the retailer’s brand new Christmas stock. n

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- HOMES -

1.

3.

2.

5.

6.

4.

7.

8.

9.

11.

10.

1. Emma Bridgewater mugs, pheasants, range of dog breeds, chickens. Special edition Christmas range due in as Pride goes to press £19.95/ea. 2. Shruti lambswool throws, typically 120cm x 150cm, from £50. 3. Coulson Macleod fine art typographic print, Friendship shown here; Home, Marriage and others available,

50cm x 50cm, £12. 4. Baubles by Retreat, 10cm dia, silver, rose and blue available £3.95-£5.50. 5. Photo frames, for 10 x 8 or 6 x 4 images, grey bone £42.95; chevron £42.95, bone stripe £26.50. 6. Brakeburn handbags in a range of designs floral purse £21; washbag £16; large shoulder bag £38. 7. Scottie & Russell candles £22/ea.

8. Picture commissions of your home 43cm x 53cm, created by local artist Emma McQuiggan £POA. 9. Candlestick, 30cm, £24.95. 10. Thornback & Peel coasters £15/four; oven gloves £25; tray £20.

11. Branch D’Olive fragrance diffuser £call; candle £21.50; room spray £12; soaps £8.50 in olive, rose, lily, geranium etc,.

Our featured products are all available from Sarah Harding Interiors, 6 Market St, Uppingham, LE15 9QH, 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

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LUXURY Solid Oak for Bespoke

Words: Rob Davis.

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- HOMES -

An investment in your kitchen is an investment in your home.

Rutland’s period properties and contemporary extensions deserve kitchen installations that embody both bespoke quality and practical design, suitable for busy families. This month we’ve sought the advice of Lucy Evetts of Oakham’s Oliver’s Kitchens...

“If you have an idea, we can bring it to life,” says Lucy Evetts, kitchen design consultant for Oliver’s Kitchens.

We’re in the Oakham showroom of the company, which opened in June this year, providing a more convenient way for customers to see and feel the bespoke quality of Oliver’s Kitchens’s installations.

“We’re a totally bespoke service, working with your needs as a family, the way you use your room, as well as the age and style of your home and the size and shape of your new room.”

“It would be impossible for us to show our work comprehensively, but what the new showroom has done is provided the opportunity for potential customers to see and feel for themselves the quality of our work.”

Main: The pale green shade in this contemporary shaker kitchen has been offset with black worktops.

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- HOMES -

>> “We use only solid oak cabinetry in our bespoke kitchens, with dovetail joints, soft close mechanisms and typically either granite, Silestone or timber work surfaces.”

“That’s why, when people come into the showroom and feel the construction for themselves, they enjoy a sense of reassurance that their room will be produced with craftsmanship and quality.”

“Our founders created the company eight years ago, having worked as cabinet makers in Northamptonshire. We now employ about 40 people and create all of our bespoke kitchens from our East Haddon factory. We usually only work on one or two kitchens a week, with a typical lead time of about six weeks, but if needed, as little as a fortnight.”

“Because we design, manufacture and install our bespoke kitchens, we’re able to provide the traditional quality of a cabinet maker, with the cost effectiveness of much larger kitchen suppliers,” says Lucy.

“Our 3D plans give you as realistic as possible an idea of how your room will look, and the most accurate costing possible.”

“We also ensure a collaborative design process which ensures you remain in control, and provide full project management of the installation, coordinating our tried and trusted building, electrical, gas, plumbing, flooring and decorating contractors to completely take the hassle away from our clients.”

“We can also source appliances from names like Qooker, Everhot, Rangemaster, Smeg and Fisher & Paykel.”

“I’ve always felt that kitchens are rooms which have to work practically, as well as appealing aesthetically, and that they’re very personal spaces, so creating a client’s room is a real privilege, one that we all really enjoy.”

OLIVER’S KITCHENS The firm has two key ranges:

Bespoke Collection – solid oak, fully made to measure service.

Feature Collection – part of Oliver Kitchens’s ‘ready to go’ range with the addition of one fully bespoke feature piece.

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“We still have a few build slots which will allow installation before Christmas, so if you’re looking to prepare your Christmas lunch and celebrate the season in a brand new room, we can still help you to create a beautiful new room which will work well, look good and add thousands of pounds to the value of your home, too.”

“Our customers are always surprised at the range of budgets we can accommodate, especially with the 12% discount we’re currently offering, and the innovations and features you can incorporate into even the smallest space. So, if you’ve been past the showroom and admired our work, we’d love to welcome you in and enable you to admire the quality of our work first hand!” n

“WE STILL HAVE A FEW BUILD SLOTS WHICH WILL ALLOW YOU TO PREPARE YOUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH AND CELEBRATE THE SEASON IN A BRAND NEW ROOM, WITH PLENTY OF TIME TO SPARE...”

Below: The firm has a core range of 20 colours inspired by popular Farrow & Ball shades.

Right: This bespoke shaker in Old English White retains a clean, sharp feel, in an open plan space.

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Kitchen Budgets...

4 Fitting: Between £1,500-£3,500.

4 Appliances: £1,800-£5,000.

4 Worktops: £300m2 for granite

4 Total: Small kitchens: £12k-£16k; - so typically £1,500-£3,000.

en trading Kitchens has be Above: Oliver’s their rs, and opened for over eight yea in June 2016. m oo wr sho new Oakham

medium kitchens £16k-£28k; large kitchens typically £28k+.

n For a guaranteed pressure-free kitchen design consultation, visit Oliver’s Kitchens, High Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AJ. Alternatively, call 01572503015 or see www.oliverskitchens.co.uk.

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Company A Local

Est 1 981 - 35 Years

All images shown are from recent QKS installations.

. . . n o i s i V r u O

FROM DESIGN TO BUILD CREATIVITY FOR YOU - From the initial consultation through to construction, we share an aspiration of building exquisite things – a visual concept that goes further than bricks and mortar. It’s the inimitable relationship that allows us to create your project.

Creating your vision should be inspirational and stress free – from design to build we are here to make your dream become a reality.

DESIGN - Our concept of design and build goes beyond the aesthetic appeal. It encompasses beauty and also importantly durability. We will never settle for second best – our team work tirelessly to meet the standards you expect. Understanding a brand before designing for its audience is key to the success of a project.

Our highly skilled team are always on hand throughout the process to offer our professional advice and care for your design. You become a fundamental part of the design process, with access to everyone involved.

In other words, you will be part of the team!

WORKING AS ONE - We really do believe in the concept of the word “Team” – together everyone achieves more.

All members of our staff pride themselves on completing the design to build process in the most efficient and professional manner with the result of providing you with the complete service.

We are proud to have our own in-house designers, surveyors, architects, builders, electrician, in fact,

we have everything covered under one roof.

We work together out of a shared belief in what we do.

PUTTING YOU FIRST - The journey always starts with you. It’s your project, your vision. So before we can start any design work, we make sure we know what you have in mind. With over 35 years’ experience, we have the know-how to get it right to industry standards – we build what we design.

We strive to keep a leading edge against our competitors and work closely with quality suppliers to provide the best for you.

LIVING THE DREAM - Your dream becomes our passion. We will leave no stone unturned to create the perfect addition to your home, exactly as you visualise it. You can rest assured, safe in the knowledge, that we share the same desire as you.

READY TO GO - Sharing your dream with us allows us to work alongside you, covering every detail, whether large or small, to ensure the build process is as smooth and trouble free as you would expect.

Planning is the key to our success.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE QUALITY? - In our book, quality is defined as the best products and services to fit your budget. We will tailor the build to provide you with the finest designs and concepts at a price you can afford. We never compromise quality. Our prices may not be the cheapest on the market, however, our value for money, we believe, is unmatchable.

Put us to the test... you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

The Showroom, Unit 4, Priory Industry, Cherryholt Lane, Stamford PE9 2EQ

01780 756666 • www.qks-ltd.co.uk

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Barratt & Swann

CRAFTING INTERIORS FOR OVER 60 YEARS

Martin Barratt & Tim Swann

0115 933 2642 www.barrattandswann.co.uk

KITCHENS - BEDROOMS - STUDIES - STAIRCASES - FURNITURE

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HOME Designed to Complement the Character of Your Paul Cushing of Ambiance Home Improvements has pride in his company’s motto, ‘where quality counts,’ and it’s never been more applicable than when celebrating his newest product, Craftsmen’s engineered timber door...

Precision engineering, for a warmer, more secure home. That’s the philosophy behind Ambiance Home Improvements, based in Stamford, and of the company’s Paul Cushing.

“We’ve over 30 years experience in designing providing windows and doors, and designing conservatories. Many of our customers think that there have been few changes in the industry during that time.”

“In fact, there has been a constant series of innovations, and one of the reasons for our longevity is that we bring our customers the best quality products and the latest designs to make their homes ever more secure, and ever more energy efficient, too.”

Engineered Timber Doors

“One of our newest products are our new precision engineered timber doors. These are the most technically sophisticated industry leading doors we’ve seen on the market, and over the past 20 years, their design has evolved to ensure they have become industry-leading.”

“They look like a normal timber door, but the multi-layered construction is more stable than timber, and doesn’t warp.”

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“They’re 100% water resistant and there are over a dozen styles to choose from in the range with 21 different colours, designed to suit all different properties.”

“As well as their superior construction, the Masterdor range is also ideal for conservation and listed buildings, and are available in either classic or contemporary designs.”

“There’s further scope for creating a totally bespoke look thanks to a range of furniture from standard handles to premium heritage fittings, or contemporary modern hardware, in materials from brushed steel and polished chrome, to satin chrome, polished gold, white and black, or graphite.”

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- HOMES -

Quality: Profile view of the firm’s solid engineered timber door.

“As standard, we fit Yale locks which are kitemarked, anti-bump, anti-snap and have Euro cylinders for maximum security.”

Flush Sash Windows

“Another product that serves as a hi-tech replacement system for older properties, and homes that are in conservation areas, is our flush sash windows.

These have the same aesthetic appearance of traditional timber frames, whilst being A+ rated in energy efficiency terms, and secure too, necessitating none of the maintenance of traditional timber windows yet retaining a look that ensures they are ideal for listed buildings, and conform to all building regulations.”

“Our products are cutting edge, but they’re backed up with a more personal and traditional service too, providing you with the means to improve your home, whilst retaining peace of mind, too.” n For details of the full range of products at Ambiance Home Improvements call now on 01780 483969 or go to www.ambiancehi.co.uk.

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Garden

The 21st Century

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Boughton House is a glorious Georgian estate just south of the county. The water features and structural design allow the gardens to have interest all year round, and after recent restoration work to the Grand Etang and new ‘Orpheus,’ it’s a 21st century garden with an 18th century theme...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- GARDENS -

OK, so it’s not quite Rutland. But Boughton House and its extensive gardens and water features we think, deserves a visit this autumn.

Boughton House is part of the union of three great families and their estates through marriage; Montagu (the Dukes of Montagu), Douglas (the Dukes of Queensberry) and Scott (the Dukes of Buccleuch). The collection of estates includes Bowhill House on the Scottish Borders, Dalkeith Country Park in Edinburgh, and Drumlanrig Castle just north of Dumfries in Scotland.

Boughton House contains a huge collection of furniture, tapestries, porcelain and carpets.

The art collection includes paintings such as

“BOUGHTON HOUSE HOLDS A HUGE COLLECTION OF FURNITURE, TAPESTRIES, PORCELAIN AND CARPETS. THE ART INCLUDES PAINTINGS

BY VAN DYCK AND EL GRECO.”

The Adoration of the Shepherds by El Greco, Thomas Gainsborough’s portrait of Mary Montagu, grisailles and portraits by Van Dyck, and Breaking Cover by John Wootton.

Once a servants’ hall, located next to the kitchen, the armoury is now home to what many experts regard as one of the finest privately held armouries in the country. It is a historic collection that owes much to John, 2nd Duke of Montagu from 1670 to 1749.

The gardens are just as impressive, managed

by Parks and Gardens Manager Dave Cullum. Dave has worked at Boughton House for the past 14 years, having always been interested in parks and gardens.

“As a boy, my parents would often drive past the huge walls that surround country estates in the area,” says Dave. “You could only just see the tops of the manors or occasionally, a glance through the bars of an entrance gate.”

“It’s always been an aspiration of mine to work in one of the gardens, combining my passion for gardening with my curiosity for the hidden country estate.”

Above: Herbaceous borders laced with colour in summer.

Opposite: Boughton House was featured in an Oscar-winning film.

Left: Bernard Opara, Senior Gardener at Boughton.

It was in Les Miserables; where the couple marry.

Boughton House, GEDDINGTON

OUR FEATURED GARDEN FOR NOVEMBER...

Head Gardener: David Cullum.

Garden: 11,500 acre estate, and beautifully manicured grounds and water features.

Features: There’s a formal garden, herbaceous borders, flower gardens, vegetable gardens and borders around the house managed by a senior gardener.

Contact: For more information, visit www.boughtonhouse.co.uk or call 01536 515731.

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- GARDENS -

Dave’s real passion in gardening involves water and trees. He couldn’t have picked a better country estate, with woodland and enormous water features.

Orpheus takes the form of an inverted pyramid, sunk into the earth and filled with water in its centre. It is a sculptural form with serene lines that descend into the water.

The Grand Etang, located immediately to the north-west of Boughton House is one of the earliest surviving features from the original gardens and designed landscape. It was created in the early 18th century as a reflecting pool for the house and was also used for ice-skating in the winter.

Over the years, benign neglect of The Grand Etang saw it left as a sculptured outline of a normally dry basin. In 2014, Dave and his team decided to restore it to its former glory, now a beautiful man-made reservoir.

“It’s a very busy job, and there has been a lot of restoration work to do over the past decade, as we try to restore all parts of the Georgian garden.”

“In November, the autumnal colours will be evident which really is a beautiful time of year for Boughton; there’s a wealth of different tree species and therefore a wealth of different colours throughout the parkland you’ll be able to see.”

“There will be a few bulbs and flowers still out in November depending on what the

PLANT of the MONTH Name: The Christmas Rose.

Description: Helleborus Niger is a semi-evergreen perennial with leathery, dark green leaves and white or pink-flushed, bowl-shaped flowers.

This month: Buy Christmas roses in flower, and place against a warm south-facing wall.

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weather is like over the next few months, and after a manic summer, my job will be to do all the maintenance jobs I haven’t had time to do like taking stock, sweeping up the leaves - a huge job - restoring all the waterways and checking they’re all in order, and just a general cut back so we can start with a blank canvas heading into the new year.”

“What I love most about the gardens at Boughton is the fact they’re always changing through the seasons, and they always look good whether it’s winter or summer. There’s so much variety and different areas of interest.”

On 30th October, visit the gardens as they open for the National Gardens Scheme. Dave says it’s a good day for people with a specific gardening interest.

The Hall also hosts a play of the Gunpowder Plot on, of course, 5th November with a spectacular firework display as well... n

“THE GARDENS ARE ALWAYS CHANGING THROUGH THE SEASONS, AND THEY ALWAYS LOOK GOOD WHETHER IT’S WINTER OR SUMMER. THERE’S SO MUCH VARIETY AND DIFFERENT AREAS OF INTEREST AT BOUGHTON...”

Above: Bernard in one of the herbaceous borders in summer.

Top: Boughton House and its beautifully manicured lawns.

Right: Senior Gardener Bernard Opara in the greenhouses at Boughton.

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Jobs for

NOVEMBER TOP JOBS FOR YOUR FLOWER, VEGETABLE AND FRUIT GARDENS...

4 Now is the ideal time to 4

4 4 4 4

4

plant a magnolia tree for a beautiful spring display.

Gather up fallen leaves from around the base of rose bushes which suffered from blackspot or rust this summer.

Lift parsnips after the first frosts when their flavour will have sweetened.

Divide mature clumps of rhubarb.

Now is the ideal time to plant currant bushes.

Clean out the greenhouse thoroughly. Wash with horticultural disinfectant to kill any overwintering pests and diseases.

Cut back the foliage of herbaceous perennials, and lift and divide overcrowded clumps to maintain their vigour.

Above: Cutting back some of the herbaceous perennials is on e of Novembe r’s jobs.

n Boughton hold group visits throughout November. Please call the office on 01536 515731 for more information or visit www.boughtonhouse.co.uk.

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Nature

NOTES

November is a month to see the seal pups at Donna Nook, winter berries, beautiful seed heads and the swans as they migrate from Siberia and Iceland...

Super

SEALS

Seals have sensitive whiskers that help them to detect prey in murky waters and grey seals have been known to live for 46 years!

November is when the glorious Donna Nook seals give birth, so head down to the nature reserve to see the seal pups!

At this time of year, the baby seals attract over 40,000 visitors to Lincolnshire’s coastline; Donna Nook is one of the most accessible sites for seeing seals at a time of breeding in the UK, so you can get quite close to them. We thoroughly recommend a trip out.

Other nature in the countryside this month are tiny linyphiid spiders.

On mild days, everything is draped with gossamer.

Freshwater invertebrates like caddis are present all year, but 132

now is a good time to look for the larvae in their cases made from stones or bits of plant material.

Mosses of all kinds can be found in woods and hedgerows; their velvety evergreen tufts and cushions stand out among the bare wood.

Many plants produce beautiful seed heads, such as hogweed and teasel, which are valuable as food for birds, but also as stems in which insects can overwinter.

It’s good for nature, but not for humans; if you see giant hogweed, try your best to avoid it as the sap, reacts with the melanin in the skin and removes any protection that patch has from UV light. It can

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- NATURE -

THE

Colours of

Autumn

Autumn leaves are really beautiful, but can you identify the tree from the leaf? Here are some of the most common you’ll find...

Poplar leaves are very variable, with small leaves on side shoots, and large leaves on strong lead shoots. They’re yellow or golden in autumn.

Above: A seal pup at Donna Nook.

Opposite/Top: Brown hares don’t burrow like rabbits, so you can see them in winter.

Opposite/Bottom: Winter berries.

Opposite/Left: Teasels have glorious seed heads as do hogweeds as we go into the winter months.

also cause blindness if the sap comes in contact with the eyes.

Unlike the rabbit, brown hares do not burrow so you may spot them crouching in fields at this time of year or more commonly, running across the road in front of your car, so keep an eye out for these!

Many birds gather together in small flocks in November, especially finches and tits.

Out on the marshes, skeins of geese arrive to spend the winter in Britain. Brent geese from Siberia find a refuge on our muddy estuaries.

Whooper and Bewick’s swans are some of the most spectacular

visitors and enliven a misty November day. To tell the difference between the two, Whooper swans are larger and their honk sounds like an old-fashioned car horn.

Bewick’s swans are the smallest species in the UK around the same size as a Canada Goose, and their calls sound more like an excited dog.

You’ll start seeing winter berries too so clip any holly you have in your garden before the birds to get to them to add to Christmas cakes and your decorations.

Make sure to visit the plethora of nature reserves in the county this month for lovely winter walks.

Red Oak Acorns are the easiest way to spot a red oak, but its leaves can be identified by being generally symmetrical with a clear median line.

Most have lobed leaves.

Horse Chestnut The leaf stalk is long where it meets with the stem on a horse chestnut leaf. The leaflets are narrow at the base and broaden out towards the tip of the leaf.

The leaves turn from orange to scarlet in autumn.

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To view and purchase photographs from The Event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

For Rutland in Rutland

Charity Golf Day at Rutland Water Golf Course...

The ‘For Rutland in Rutland’ charity recently organised a charity golf tournament in which 20 teams battled it out on Rutland Water Golf Course to raise funds in aid of people living with long term conditions in Rutland. The tournament was widely supported by 30 local businesses, who generously sponsored holes, provided raffle prizes and donated impressive golf prizes for the winning players. This year’s winners were announced by Barry Read, Chairman of the Trustees at Citizens Advice Rutland, who started the Annual Charity Golf Tournament last year. After 18 holes, Players were welcomed back with a three course dinner and a prize giving.

The funds raised by the event will be used to pay for specialist advisors based at Citizens Advice Rutland, who provide essential guidance to people with long term conditions, such as cancer, dementia, strokes and mental illness, at a time when they most need it. n For more information call 01572 724 400 or see www.forrutlandinrutland.org.uk.

Feature your event in our magazine.

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

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Purchase photographs from this event online.

Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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Great Reception Words: Tilly Wilkinson. Photographer: Shoot it Momma, www.shootitmomma.co.uk, 07951 030114.

meet our COUPLE This month’s wedding is a bit of a Rutland celebrity special because Rutland Radio’s breakfast show presenter Rob Persani has recently married a former teacher at Stamford Junior School, Rachel!

In July 2013, Rob asked his listeners if anyone would like to become the Royal Correspondent to report on the birth of Prince George which Rachel jumped at the chance of being involved with.

They clicked straight away and chatted every day after that until they met at Burghley House during an Anna’s Hope charity picnic of which Rob is a trustee.

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Rob proposed to Rachel on a beautifully clear and crisp winter’s evening under the stars, where they believe his late father keeps a watchful eye on them in January this year.

“We began to plan our wedding once we’d told our family and friends we were engaged,” says Rachel. “The first things we booked were the church and reception venue. We chose St. John the Evangelist Church in Ryhall in Rutland and Barnsdale Lodge Hotel for our reception as I wanted a marquee whilst Rob wanted a venue with solid walls so the hotel’s Barn Suite was perfect.

“The staff there are also absolutely brilliant and we couldn’t have asked for a more professional approach.”

“I was extremely nervous about going wedding dress shopping, but I went to Annie Laurie Bridal in Easton-on-the-Hill where

Katie laid my fears to rest. The first dress I tried on, I felt beautiful in but it was a little too sparkly so Katie brought one of the same style but with subtler sparkle. This one I loved straight away and it gave my Mum goosebumps. It was a strapless Maggie Sottero dress with added bespoke lace sleeves and a sparkly belt to make it the dress.”

I had three bridesmaids; my best friend, Jennie, my cousin, Anna and my 18 month old niece, Natalia. Jennie and Anna walked behind me with Natalia holding both of their hands. It was the most adorable moment when I turned around to hand my bouquet to my bridesmaids and I saw my niece behind me too.”

“We kept the hiring of the suits to local business, Colin Bell. We had a great local wedding photographer; Lizzie Adams from

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- WEDDINGS -

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- WEDDINGS -

>>

Shoot It Momma. Her work is amazing and every photograph in her portfolio made us smile.”

“Mandy from Greensleeves Florists in Stamford made the bouquets and buttonholes. She was absolutely fantastic!”

“Rob’s very good friend Danny Hern from Rocky Road Music in Uppingham was our lighting, sound and music DJ and we were extremely lucky to have Rutland’s best band playing at our wedding. Funk Soul Brother from DG Music were simply fantastic and guests were dancing all night.”

“Our theme was based around R&R; Rachel & Rob, Rolls Royce, Ryhall & Rutland. The colours were chosen by our love of sunsets, so a salmon pink theme. Tom and Hannah at Rutland Marquees and Nikki at Lola Rose Venue Dressing helped us create the perfect magical look for our venue.”

“Up until minutes before entering the church to walk down the aisle, I wasn’t sure whether my body and legs were going to be able to carry me down the aisle. I wasn’t sure if he was going to turn around but when he did it was the most magical feeling in the world.”

“At Barnsdale Lodge our guests were enjoying canapés and drinks in the courtyard as we pulled up, whilst listening to local talented musician Eleanor Turner playing her harp.”

“Rob had had a jingle made by JAM Creative Productions so as we sat down to eat, ‘Rob and Rachel’s wedding day, the 14th May, Rob and Rachel Persani,’ played out of the speakers.”

“We had a Skype linkup half way through the evening as it was the night of Eurovision.

Rob and I normally attend a wonderful Eurovision Party that our friend Marty puts a great deal of effort in to hosting in Much Marcle in Herefordshire.”

“We spent our honeymoon in the beautiful county of Dorset, staying in the Haven Hotel in Poole. Our suite overlooked the sea and there was a private beach to relax on.

We had the most wonderful of sunny days.”

“Thank you to everyone involved in making our day so special with memories that we will treasure forever.”

Photographer: Shoot it Momma, www.shootitmomma.co.uk, 07951 030114.

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“At Barnsdale Lodge our guests enjoyed canapés and drinks in the courtyard whilst listening to local musician Eleanor Turner playing her harp...”

Top: Rob & Rachel’s first dance at Barnsdale Lodge.

Left: Rob & Rachel in front of their Rolls Royce at Rutland Water.

Bottom/Left: The couple’s table names were places in Rutland that meant something special to them.

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

Andrew J Musson Bespoke Tailor of Lincoln

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

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

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- FASHION This Page: Gareth wears an Alan Paine Compton blazer in forest colourway £219, with an Alan Paine Bury shirt £59.95.

Also pictured is Ashwood Doris briefcase £149.95.

Laura wears an Alan Paine Compton Wrap in avocado colourway £119, with an Annabelle Brocks headband £42.95.

She carries a Gianni Conti handbag £139.95.

Fashion you’ll really

WARM TO

With over 37 years provenance in Stamford, Robinson’s is renowned as a stockist of only the best quality country clothing, giftwear and leather goods in the area, as our preview of their newest autumn/winter products proves...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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- FASHION -

Established in 1905, and with a presence in the town centre of Stamford for 37 years, Robinson’s of Stamford is one of the town’s most established independent retailers, providing only the best quality country clothing from names like Barbour, Aigle, Alan Paine, Dubarry and Le Chameau.

This month we’re showcasing some of the retailer’s latest products with models Gareth Ramsden and Laura Haughton as well as Becca Stubbs, who runs the business with mum Anne, an ex-Harrods and Simpsons retailer.

Anne and Becca are the third and fourth generation of the family to run the business, which began life as a retailer of saddlery and harnesses, before the firm left those products behind in order to concentrate on country clothing, luxury leather goods and giftware.

Robinson’s is an ideal place to find something special for a loved one this season, and we’ve included a few of the retailer’s gift ideas in our festive gift guide earlier in this edition. n

Main Image: Gareth wears a Barbour Prestbury jacket in Rustic £199, over an Aigle Inksterson jumper in bordeaux £70 with an Ashwood Charles holdall £169.95.

Below: Ashwood Harper suiter £159.95; Harry holdall £149.95; washbag £49.95.

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Main Image: Laura wears a Barbour Brocklane waterproof quilted coat £199, with an Alan Paine scarf in plaid design £29.95.

Below: Alan Paine fleece gilet in plum £69.95 over a Barbour Oxer shirt in brushed cotton £59.95.

Bottom: Rowallan leather handbag in navy and tan £89.95.

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- FASHION -

Main: Gareth wears an Aigle Henrysound jumper £60, Aigle Litedowny gilet £120 and ‘manbag’ by Ashwood £89.95.

Below: Doris briefcase by Ashwood £149.95.

Bottom: Mens London brogues, Gatsby in navy and tan £79.95.

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Main: Becca wears an Aigle Trendfish jacket £199, Aigle Scarf in cream cable knit £45, with beanie hat (not pictured) to match £29.

Below: Emu Australia boots, Shoreline £185; Roadside £175.

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- FASHION -

Main: Becca wears an Alan Paine field coat £289.95, and pink lambswool scarf

by Barbour £25.95.

Below: Robinson’s is a stockist of Dubarry boots - the best-seller is the classic Galway, but more exclusive ranges shown here are Tipperary (left) £299; Longford (centre) £335 and Clare £325 (right).

Find Out More: Featured items are available from Robinson’s of Stamford, 4 St Marys Street, Stamford Lincolnshire PE9 2DE. Tel: 01780 755378, www.robinsonsofstamford.com.

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The Stamford Eye Clinic Opticians

THE LATEST ADVANCES IN LENS TECHNOLOGY ALLOWS DRIVERS WHO WEAR GLASSES TO MAKE A COMMITMENT TO SAFETY THIS WINTER, SAYS STAMFORD EYE CLINIC’S MALVINDER HANSPAL... n The Stamford Eye Clinic is open Tuesday to Saturday.

Visit the clinic on 32 St Peter’s Street, Stamford PE9 2PF. Call 01780 767403 or see www.thestamfordeyeclinic.co.uk.

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Experience comfort and safety, this month, with the latest lens technology and sophisticated coatings designed to make winter driving safer and more comfortable.

“We all accept the benefits of a pair of designer prescription sunglasses for the summer months,” say Stamford Eye Clinic’s Malvinder Hanspal and Kirpal Singh.

“But the winter months necessitate lenses which filter out glare to make driving safer and more comfortable.

Fortunately, we’ve selected the best brands of lenses, like Zeiss, whose DriveSafe range provide better vision in low light and reduce

glare from low sun, oncoming cars or street lighting, and provide clear visibility in mirrors.”

“97% of drivers reported better, more comfortable vision when using the lenses, according to Zeiss’s own testing, and with winter around the corner, we’re able to utilise these lenses and other brands too, within a range of designer or bespoke frames.”

“Our eye testing facilities are second to none, with digital retinography and measurements taken to ensure now only the sharpest and most comfortable vision all winter long, but great looking frames of the highest quality, too.” n

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DIGESTION; You’re Not Alone Problems With

- HEALTH -

Treatment with acupuncture and dietary changes.

Find out from Stamford practitioner Jo George…

Gastro-intestinal conditions are amongst the most common to be seen in a GPs surgery, and Jo George Stamford acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist agrees these conditions are equally common in her acupuncture clinic. Broadly these conditions might be grouped as 1) Non serious digestive complaints that can often be treated with changes to diet, lifestyle, over the counter medication and alternative treatments such as acupuncture; and 2) Chronic gastro-intestinal conditions that have potentially serious implications for health and usually require medical supervision and intervention, alongside dietary changes and supportive therapies such as acupuncture.

Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Ulcerative Colitis, and Crohn’s are described as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and their cause is an auto-immune disorder. They share several main symptoms including diarrhoea, constipation, fatigue, weight loss, blood and mucous in the stools, severe abdominal pain and cramps.

They are treated with drugs appropriate to the degree of severity, including anti-inflammatories, steroids and auto-immune suppressants. However, not all patients respond to the same drugs, and finding the optimum drug for an individual involves a degree of trial and error. Of the two conditions, Crohn’s is considered the more serious. In severe IBD cases surgery may be necessary.

Treatment with Acupuncture People with milder versions of IBD may be able to manage their condition without drugs and will seek Acupuncture treatment only when they are experiencing a flare up and need support. Others may require support while they are waiting to try a different drug, and others still may find that in spite of being on the best drug for them and making dietary changes, their symptoms are still incompletely controlled. Sometimes its used as support for reducing steroids.

Jo George states “The symptoms I would expect to see in my clinic vary in terms of nature and severity, although I will usually see milder versions of the main symptoms, and can expect to make good improvements to many of them, notably fatigue and diarrhoea.”

She goes on to say “A failure to respond well to Acupuncture treatment could be a due to a number of factors, including the severity of the condition; the number of times the patient is able to attend for treatment in a week (e.g. treatment dose); unresolved dietary and other lifestyle issues (such as smoking and stress); and, the possibility that medications themselves are contributing to the symptoms. For example, some of the side effects

of Puri Nethol, which is used to treat both Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s, include diarrhoea, fatigue and abdominal pain. Similarly, repeated treatment of intestinal infections with high doses of antibiotics can cause nausea, loss of appetite, epigastric pain, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea and weight loss.

Therefore, Jo George says “its not uncommon for that patients may need to be referred back to their GP, Consultant or Nutritionist for review.”

Diet There is no evidence to suggest that food causes IBD, although many of Jo George’s patients report their conditions are aggravated by certain foods and it is widely accepted that dietary changes can have an important role to play in symptom management. Jo George goes on to say “In mild-moderate cases such measures can make the difference between needing medication and being able to control the condition without help.”

However, in spite of the evidence to support dietary changes in the management of symptoms, Gastroenterologists treating IBD don’t automatically refer patients to Nutritionists for dietary advice and supervision, and patients may have to seek this kind of support on their own initiative. Dietitians are increasingly likely to recommend the FODMAP diet, which restricts several food groups (e.g. wheat, dairy), because of growing recognition of its success in helping conditions like IBD and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Jo George says “while certain foods are commonly cited as causes of aggravation, it is usually a matter of trial and error for each individual to establish their particular triggers. For example, some sources recommend porridge as being extremely beneficial for Crohn’s, and yet there are individuals who find it exacerbates inflammation and causes diarrhoea. Equally, not everyone finds dairy, which is often cited as an aggravating factor in Ulcerative Colitis, to be problematic. Therefore in my clinic patients undergo a food intolerance test to less the trial and error to get faster results.”

In terms of supplements, there is a body of evidence to suggest that Vitamin D can play a role in helping to manage mild to moderate Colitis and Crohn’s.

Similarly, probiotics can be important for patients who have had repeated courses of anti-biotics to treat intestinal infections associated with Crohn’s and Colitis.

With the variations in severity of IBD, different food sensitivities, and the general lack of consensus about diet and nutrition, it can be difficult be easily confusing for the patient. Jo George’s says her approach using Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and nutritional advice offers great support to the patient whilst coming to learn and understand what works for them and the condition.

Her dietary advice not only looks at modern understanding but also encompasses the basic principles of Chinese dietary therapy. Jo George Acupuncturist says “ These are dietary principles that have withstood the test of time, and offers my patients broad indications of what foods may suit their constitutional type, pattern of disharmony, and the season.”

Jo George expands further “Interestingly, some western theories about diet and nutrition seem to have been shifting towards TCM principles for several years.

In terms of cookery, there is more emphasis on eating foods that are in season and cooking them appropriately, while dietary health advice appears to be shifting its focus from ‘low fat’ diets to ‘right kind of fats, with low red meat, sugar and dairy’, all of which is consistent with TCM advice, especially for people said to have a weak Spleen.

In fact, some of this health advice originates from studies about the diet and lifestyle of rural Chinese people over a period of 20 years, which concluded that many of the major diseases affecting western society can be reversed or managed with dietary changes based on the diet of the rural Chinese.”! n Jo George is a fully registered and insured member of the BacC and RCHM which are the leading regulatory body of acupuncture and herbs in the UK. Jo George is highly trained professional to Masters (distinction) level, and very experienced practitioner with over 14 years clinical knowledge. For a free informal preliminary chat with Jo call 07914 851995. or contact The Broad Street Practice, Stamford on 01780 480889. For more information on Jo’s work go to lifemedicineclinic.com.

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- COSMETICS -

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Acting at all levels of the skin it helps to restore the skin’s natural appearance hydration mechanisms and maintain moisture levels for newly replenished skin. Its unique formulation enables skin to soak up its powerful ingredients deep-down into you skin’s dermal water reservoir, £44.

n John Rohnan-Wharff is a beauty and makeup blogger, who reviews and rates products at www.mr-wharff.com.

All products available from good independent local stockists unless otherwise stated, prices are RRP.

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PEOPLE - MOTORS -

POWER TO THE

TESLA IS JUST ABOUT THE WORLD’S NEWEST MOTORING BRAND, BUT ALREADY IT’S BECOMING WELL-KNOWN, ITS PRODUCTS SOUGHT AFTER AND RESPECTED. THE FIRM’S UNIQUE SELLING POINT IS THE ECO-FRIENDLY ELECTRIC DRIVETRAINS WHICH POWER ITS PREMIUM MODELS... WITH THEIR EQUALLY PREMIUM PRICE TAGS! Words: Rob Davis.

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- MOTORS -

It takes a while for a brand to become ‘premium,’ and whilst many motoring manufacturers have tried to muscle in on the car park kudos enjoyed by Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Range Rover, few fledgeling brands are sufficiently established to steal sales from premium manufacturers. Infiniti, Lexus and Volvo have all tried to make inroads in the executive market over successive new models and, arguably, haven’t achieved the same respect as established executive car makers.

One totally new brand which has managed to do so almost overnight, though, is Tesla.

You’ll have heard of the brand and its founder, the exotically named Elon Musk, who after inventing PayPal, becoming a billionaire then attempting to reach Mars got bored, and instead decided to revolutionise, popularise and render glamorous the world of plug-in electric cars.

The firm released its Model S large executive saloon in early 2015, and about this time last year, launched its SUV/4x4 ‘Model X.’ In mid-2017 Tesla will release its Model 3, which is akin in size, and price, to a BMW 3-Series or Audi A4. That’s when the company will make a full onslaught on a more volume oriented market.

For now at least, Tesla ownership remains fairly expensive yet rather exclusive. So should you pay up to £100,000 for a car brand that’s so relatively new to the market?

The answer is a definite probably. Principally, that’s because the firm’s long-term reliability has yet to be affirmed, but with fewer moving parts in a plug-in electric vehicle, rather than one with a combustion or hybrid power source, Tesla’s cars should prove more reliable, not less.

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Beyond that, you’ll need to be bold enough to make the leap from conventional fuel to electric motoring. But proverbially, fortune favours the bold, and this Model X certainly appears to affirm this point. Buying your Tesla Model X is as close to buying a bespoke car as it gets. There’s a single ‘model,’ a five door with a half-SUV, half-coupé profile, a little like the Mercedes GLC Coupé or BMW X4.

There’s also just a single trim level for the Model X. However, rather like choosing different engines, customers opt for different batteries. There’s a 60D with 60kWh of power and 220 miles of range before recharging, plus a 75D with 259 mile range and a 90D with 303 miles of range. Sitting atop the range, there’s the P100D sports model, with 336 mile range and performance figures that are impressive to say the least 60mph is reached in just 2.9 seconds!

THE TESLA MODEL X SUV OFFERS SILENT, EMISSION-FREE DRIVING, UP TO SEVEN SEATS AND FOUR WHEEL DRIVE...

Top/Right: The Tesla Model X is a five, six or seven seater which charges from the mains and provides a range of at least 220 miles.

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ELECTRIC DREAMS Plug-in cars are becoming more common, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reporting a 50% increase on 2015 sales, and a total of 6,600 plug-in cars being sold so far in 2016.

The days of electric cars looking like odd concept cars are long gone, and today, those seeking a plug-in or plug-in hybrid car benefit from great savings, as well as a choice of some familiar models.

Our Favourite Plug-In Cars:

1. BMW 330e: Take BMW’s class-leading small executive saloon, add a refined plug-in hybrid powertrain and you’ve a compelling option for company car drivers. On sale now, £34,235.

2. Volkswagen Passat GTE: In estate form and Advance trim, the VW has lots of space and a huge, versatile boot.

It promises equally huge savings courtesy of its 1.4 petrol engine and electric motor. On sale now £37,680.

3. Mitsubishi Outlander: A rugged, full-size SUV promising over 30 miles of electric-only range, as well as five seats, a huge boot and plenty of kit.

From £31,749, but top models have adaptive cruise control and leather seats.

A 2.0 petrol engine can charge the car on longer runs.

4. Tesla Model S P100D: At £107,700, the Model S is the sister car of this month’s featured Model X. In P100D form it’s the fasted accelerating road car in the UK, reaching 60mph in just 2.5 seconds. All wheel drive, air suspension and a 381mile range between charging create all the world’s most unusual, eco-friendly and the fastest executive car available today.

5. Nissan Leaf: At just £16,530, the Leaf is one of the cheapest full five seater electric cars on the UK market, with a 155 mile range and smartphone app to remotely check the state of your vehicle’s charge.

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- MOTORS -

>> Our recommendation is to stick to the 60D which, in addition to its 220 mile range, can reach 60mph in a hardly sluggish six seconds, and is good for up to 130mph.

In addition to choosing the battery which suits the amount of power you’d like, Model X can be configured as a five, six or seven seater. With no engine under the bonnet, there’s a second ‘boot’ and lots of space in the cabin thanks to batteries being stored underneath the car.

Standard equipment is generous too, with white, tan or black leather seats plus the usual array of wood and carbon fibre finishers. Four wheel drive is standard, as are parking sensors, a power tailgate, satellite navigation, a panoramic windscreen that stretches back over the driver’s head, keyless entry, DAB radio and parking sensors.

Opt for Tesla’s Autopilot and the car can accelerate, brake and steer itself both at motorway speeds and in stop/start traffic, as well as parking and unparking itself, in 162

parallel or perpendicular spaces. Other optional extras include power doors that present themselves as you approach, ‘Bioweapon Defense Mode’ - a HEPA cabin filtration - a sports button charismatically named ‘Ludicrous Mode,’ plus heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

Purchase a Model X on a PCP and put £16,000 down and your payments will be just £480/month. Company car tax bills are tiny as the car emits no CO2. Purchase the car outright though and it’ll cost £57,000.

The range topping P100D tops out at £110,000, which puts it head to head with the priciest Range Rovers and Porsche Cayennes.

That’s a premium price for a competitor set against some class-leading luxury SUVs, especially since Tesla is a brand yet to establish itself. However, with a premium feel, good value, flexibility, and a price tag which can, in fairness, be offset with lower running costs, the Model X is not only charismatic - good looking and modern but makes a great deal on paper, too. n

Tesla Model X 60D

Price: £59,300.

Engine: 60kWh electric motor.

Range: 220 miles (zero emissions).

Top Speed: 130mph; 0-60mph 6 secs.

Equipment: Automatic gearbox, four wheel drive, leather seats, five, six or seven seats, parking sensors, blind spot warning, heated leather seats, DAB radio, keyless entry/go, power tailgate, power windows, panoramic windscreen/roof.

Optional: Autopilot, HEPA filtration, ventilated seats, ambient lighting, air suspension, subzero package.

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