Lincolnshire Pride November 2019

PRIDE

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LINCOLNSHIRE

LINCOLNSHIRE’S FINEST MAGAZINE

£4.50

Country Clothing in Lincolnshire

Wrap up warm and enjoy Autumn with Doddington Hall...

Armistice Commemorations in the County Where to commemorate Armistice Sunday in Lincolnshire...

An A-Z of Local Food & Drink

Celebrating farming, food and drink in the county...

COVER IMAGE: JOCELYN LAWMAN.

READ

FREE ONLINE

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WELCOME

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here’s much to love about November, especially if, like me, you’re not a sun-worshipper. I swelter in full sunshine so I’ll take a crisp autumn morning any day over baking hot temperatures. Plus, autumn means hearty dishes on the menus of the county’s restaurants, autumn colours and the chance to grab a warm coat and wrap up snugly.

We can help with a couple of those highlights this month with a look at some beautiful winter clothing from retailers on the Doddington Hall Estate, a great dining out suggestion in the form of Boston’s White Hart and a way to use autumn foliage to create beautiful wreaths in time for the festive season.

Elsewhere this month, we’re remembering the fallen across Lincolnshire with the Royal British Legion, we’re investigating an A-Z of Lincolnshire food and we’re meeting a brace of interesting Lincolnshire folk; Grantham gunmaker Mark Knezevic and Grimsby based cross-channel swimmer Brenda Fisher.

Just a reminder, if you’ve yet to cast your vote in our Restaurant of the Year awards, don’t miss out on the chance to win free dining out throughout 2020!

Best wishes for a wonderful month!

Executive Editor rob@pridemagazines.co.uk 3

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CoNTENTs NEWs & EvENTs

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NEWS Our roundup of news in and around the county for November.

WHAT’S ON The best autumn events and entertainment in Lincolnshire.

LINCOLN AT CHRISTMAS Festive

HIGHLIGHTs 16

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Events in November and December.

REMEMBERING THE FALLEN

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WELCOME HOME A wonderful contemporary cottage in Belton.

LIGHTING Brighten up your winter with our designer lighting.

104 WREATH MAKING Beautiful

LADIEs & GENTLEMEN decorations for your door.

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WEDDING A Lincoln wedding for this month’s couple, Steph & Michael.

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Armistice Day across Lincolnshire.

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BRENDA FISHER Grimsby’s record-breaking swimmer.

138 COSMETICS Vert de Terre.

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DINING OUT Enjoying quality dining at Boston’s White Hart.

147 HIGH LIFE Exclusive images from

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A-Z OF LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD

HoMEs & GARDENs

A REAL BIG SHOT The work of

Food for thought with local producers. heritage gunmaker Mark Knezevic.

FooD & DRINK 75

WINE Sparklers for Bonfire Night.

126 FASHION Step out in style this season with country clothing from Doddington Hall.

THE HIGH LIFE

this year’s Burghley Horse Trials.

154 MOTORS Horse power from Ferrari.

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THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE COUNTY READ LINCOLNSHIRE PRIDE

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FREE ONLINE

Lincolnshire Pride is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county.

Our circulation is to properties in the top three council tax bands - homes which are predominantly worth over ÂŁ300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content. In addition the magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents including Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, WHSmith, Tesco, Asda, Co-Op and Morrisons.

Our in-house distribution team also works hard to hand-deliver the magazine to selected hotels and restaurants, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs.

This helps to ensure we have a continued presence, right across our catchment area.

Our magazines also have more social media fans than any other local magazine, and we are available to read free of charge, online on your tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website and via the Readly and Issuu platforms.

If your business would benefit from being showcased to the wealthiest people in the area, please call our friendly sales team on 01529 469977.

This month’s cover artwork has been created by local artist Jocelyn Lawman.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

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

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

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

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

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

THE PRIDE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

Production Director: Ian Bagley.

Sales Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

Sales Manager: Charlotte Aiken.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

Chief Photographer: Dean Fisher.

Resident Artist: Jocelyn Lawman.

Features: Laurin Dempsey, Carissa Smith.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Distribution: Joe Proctor.

Office Managers: Sue Bannister and Melissa Trestrail.

Sales Supervisor: Cydney Dyson.

Sales Executives: Cassy Ayton, Emily Brown, Jade Cox.

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

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

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NEWS & EVENTS

Lord Burghley’s 2020 Celebrations ESTATE PREPARES TO CELEBRATE 500 YEARS SINCE THE BIRTH OF WILLIAM CECIL

STAMFORD stamford’s Burghley House will celebrate 500 years since the birth of William Cecil in 2020, and has confirmed a programme of events which will run in collaboration with The Lord Burghley 500 Foundation – a charitable organisation founded in January 2019 to organise and promote this national and international commemoration.

A special series of lectures will focus on the life, times and legacy of William Cecil.

Guest speakers include Professor stephen Alford, Dr Anna Keay, David starkey, Dr simon Thurley, Professor Jennifer Alexander, Lesley smith, and Dr suzannah Lipscomb. The series will begin in March 2020.

A series of exhibitions will provide a fascinating insight into the man and his legacy, whilst an education programme will include Tudor

tours, with costumed guides, workshop, lectures, drama and crafts.

Burghley, one of the largest and grandest houses of the first Elizabethan Age, was

Brian Blessed booms into Grantham this month...

BOOMING BRIAN BLESSED VISITS GRANTHAM’S ST WULFRAM’S CHURCH TO DISCUSS HIS CAREER

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built and mostly designed by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, between 1555 and 1587.

His life as the most powerful man in the court of

Elizabeth I was both eventful but also helped to shape the history of the British Isles. n For more information on the Lord Burghley 500th Anniversary Celebrations, see burghley.co.uk.

GRANTHAM Churches. Places of silence, quiet contemplation... and hushed reverence. Not this month though, as the booming baritone of Brian Blessed will be heard echoing around the nave of st Wulfram’s Church in Grantham. saturday 2nd November sees (well, hears...) an appearance by the 82-year old actor who was raised in Yorkshire but, in fact, does have relatives who come from Brigg, and therefore has a (tenuous) connection to the county.

The actor made a name for himself in shakespearean roles like that of Antonio in

Much Ado About Nothing, and the ghost of Hamlet’s Father. Blessed has also voiced characters in star Wars and starred in Z-Cars, Black Adder and in musical theatre performing in the role of old Deuteronomy in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats.

Blessed will be interviewed by steve Healey, who will also be auctioning film memorabilia and autographs.

Tickets for the event at the Grade I listed 700-seater church are on sale now priced at £20, from the church’s Facebook page or by calling 01476 561342. n

LINCOLN’S BRAYFORD BELLE UP FOR SALE

LINCOLN The Brayford Belle is up for sale, says owner Monna owen, revealing that she’s seeking a new custodian for the business established by her late husband Paul.

The craft has been a popular feature on Lincoln’s Brayford Waterfront for two decades and Monna took over the business after husband and former owner Paul died in 2013 after a short illness.

Having run the business for six years, Monna is now seeking to take early retirement and has put the business up for sale at a price of £235,000.

“I’ve no regrets,” said Monna. “I’d like to thank the people of Lincoln for being so supportive over the last few years. I’d also really like to thank harbourmaster Keith, the sea Cadets, Lincoln BIG and Michael Armstrong.” n

Couple’s Grand Design

PAUL & AMY WILKINSON OF BOSTON APPEAR ON CHANNEL 4 TV SHOW WITH CONTEMPORARY HOME

East Coast to benefit from a trio of tourism improvements...

SKEGNESS The East Coast could see a new skegness showground established under plans by businessman Russ sparks who wants to use a 16-acre site off Burgh Road (below) to create a venue to host large events.

It follows news that skegness could implement its proposed Foreshore Masterplan as one of 100 towns in line for a windfall. skegness has been awarded £25m from the stronger Towns Fund.

Last month also marked the completion of a £75,000 regeneration of the town’s Rockery Gardens, too. n

BOSTON Congratulations to Boston couple Paul & Amy Wilkinson, who completed their stunning £1.3m home and piqued the interest of Channel Four’s Kevin McCloud in the process, appearing on the show to around three million viewers.

Paul and Amy worked for just over a year to build their contemporary property, a series of interconnected round areas overlooking the couple’s lake.

The householders used the programme to pay tribute to the local tradespeople who helped them to realise their dream home in the county. n Look out for an interview with the couple in next month’s Pride.

£260,000

Boat up for ‘sail’

LOOKING TO INVEST IN PROPERTY? Why stop at a house or two? Land agent Avison Young is inviting offers for 54 high quality homes in the former RAF village of Brookenby, in addition to a former RAF canteen. Previously housing the RAF’s Lightning pilots, until the aircraft was mothballed in the 1980s, the site’s properties were made available for rent and now 93% of them are occupied, providing an income up £260,000 per annum. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief LOUTH

cadwell cameo as top gear visits louth circuit...

Look out for Louth in the forthcoming series as the Top Gear team visited the county to film an episode of the motoring Tv show at the county’s Motorsport vision-owned circuit. sharp-eyed viewers spotted presenter Chris Harris filming the show he presents alongside Paddy McGuinness and the show’s newest presenter, former cricketer Freddie Flintoff.

Damon Hill was also spotted in a white Porsche 911.

The Louth circuit is often nicknamed the mini Nürburgring and is more commonly associated with the superbike racing series. n

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NEWS

Humber Tunnel is now complete...

5KM TUNNEL BELOW HUMBER LINKS GOXHILL TO HULL... BUT NOT FOR PEOPLE! NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE

EuroTunnel, eat your heart out!

Now North East Lincolnshire has its own engineering boast with the completion of a 5km tunnel below the Humber Estuary which has just been completed by engineers.

The project has taken 18 months to finish and is 100ft (30m) below the ground.

The tunnel was created to house a vital pipeline which will supply up to a quarter of Britain’s gas supply, says the National Grid. 160,000 tonnes of chalky soil has been excavated from Goxhill on the North East Lincolnshire side of the Humber to Paull, six miles east of Hull. The tunnel was created by ‘Mary,’ a 160m long TBM (tunnel boring machine) and excavated material will be used to restore a former quarry near the site.

Workers will follow Mary installing air ducts, electrical cables, and other infrastructure.

LOCAL NEWS In Brief

‘political correctness gone mad!’ as sam is fired

A blazing row has broken out over the news that children’s TV character Fireman Sam is to be ‘fired’ from his role as Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue ambassador because he’s not inclusive enough.

Sam served to promote the fire service alongside Freddy & Filbert, but will now be replaced by ‘Penelope the fire extinguisher.’ n

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spring 2020 will see a pair of hydraulic thrust machines begin to push eight 610m long pipework sections into the tunnel, from Goxhill to Humberside, which will

eventually create the longest hydraulically inserted pipe in the world.

The £100m project replaces an existing pipeline in Easington and has been

Firefighters Rescue spider NO TIME FOR ARACHNOPHOBIA IN HUMBERSIDE’S FIRE & RESCUE AS BRAVE FIREFIGHTERS RESCUE SARLOTE...

completed by a team of 40 engineers working 300,000 man hours. The project has also included a fundraising element which has seen £120,000 donated to local charities. n GRIMSBY How brave are the county’s firefighters? Brave, of course... but Humberside’s firefighters faced the ultimate trial of their steely nerves recently as sarlote the three year old tarantula had to be rescued from a house fire.

The spider’s vivarium heat pad malfunctioned, causing it to set off the property’s smoke alarm. Firefighters were quickly on the scene and helped to take sarlote to safety. A fire blanket and hose reel extinguished the fire, and sarlote is now in new accommodation. Her owner said that sarlote was traumatised... but an extra cricket for supper helped to calm her nerves. n

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HOWELL HALL, HOWELL, SLEAFORD

£825,000

A wonderful Grade II Listed residence located in an enviable position. The accommodation, in excess of 4500 sq. ft has been lovingly upgraded by the current owners to reveal a quality interior steeped with charm. Externally the property is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens. The property is complemented by a Georgian Garden house, two stables, far reaching views and extensive parking.

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CLEMATIS HOUSE, CLAYPOLE, NEWARK

£775,000

A beautiful Georgian farmhouse located in a superb position and within close proximity to Newark’s high-speed rail network to London Kings Cross. The accommodation, in excess of 3000 sq. ft includes a wealth of character and exposed features. Externally the property is surrounded by wonderful landscaped gardens approaching 0.75 acres (STS), which contain an abundance of flowers, native shrubs and trees.

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EPC Rating: Exempt

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EPC Rating: D

£675,000

HOLLY HOUSE, CROXTON KERRIAL, GRANTHAM £675,000

A Grade II character ful countr y house with individual features both inside and out, set in substantial gardens together with a range of versatile outbuildings. The property benefits from four bedrooms and three grand reception rooms.

An impressive stone country residence located in the magnificent Vale of Belvoir. The notable accommodation, nearing 2750 sq. ft, offers breathtaking panoramic views from the south wing, balcony and sun terrace. The external home office adds a further 340 sq. ft and complements the property beautifully as do two open barns which have further potential for additional annex/ancillary accommodation.

HALTON MANOR, HALTON HOLGATE, SPILSBY

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EPC Rating: Exempt

Fine & Country Lincolnshire,

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EPC Rating: E

55 High Street, Navenby, Lincs LN5 0DZ Telephone: 01522 287008 or 01476 247070 Email: lincoln@fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.com Associated offices at Grantham, Stamford, Nottingham and throughout the UK

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Rectory Farm | Mere Booth Road | Langrick | Boston | Lincs | PE22 7AD

A superb range of newly refurbished and extended buildings offering a rare opportunity to relocate a business or convert to residential accommodation subject to planning consent.

The original two storey barn has been converted into a number of rooms suitable for a variety of purposes. In addition, it has been extended at the rear to form a two storey extension containing another 3 large rooms and a bathroom. To the rear of the main barn block is a detached single storey converted barn divided into office rooms and garaging space.

Finally, on the north-west corner of the site is a two storey block of parking with overnight accommodation over.

FOR SALE FREEHOLD WITH VACANT POSSESSION

ÂŁ875,000

Subject To Contract

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Your Home, our Vision

moVe in for CHristmas witH asHwood Homes

With over 25 years’ in the residential property market, based in the heart of Lincolnshire; we have built an enviable reputation for combining exceptional quality with high specifications and traditional build designs.

We have a range of properties across Lincolnshire, from two bedroom homes, to five bedroom homes - we build homes to suit everyone! Each of our developments are carefully designed to provide space for families, first-time buyers and even investors alike. Ensuring there is a dream home for all. Our developments currently cover Cowbit, Crowland, Holbeach, Kirton, Swineshead & Donington - with more on the horizon.

We’re proud to say that over the years we have provided employment for many local developments and with the ambitious plans we have for the future, there will continue to be a whole range of job opportunities.

Ashwood Homes’ supportive and professional staff are with you every step of the way, from reservation to completion and after-care. Our recommended panel solicitors and financial advisors are also on hand to help!

We also offer the Help to Buy Scheme - backed by HM Government, which can help eligible buyers get onto the property ladder and secure their dream home with just a 5% deposit.

so let us Help You find Your dream Home todaY!

Visit www.ashwoodhomes.co or contact 01406 490590 for more details on our current and upcoming developments.

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1 GOODISON ROAD, LINCS GATEWAY BUSINESS PARK, SPALDING, PE12 6FY please note: internal photographs reflect the typical style and finish of properties, but exact specifications and room layouts may vary according to individual plot and development. Help to Buy terms and conditions may apply, please call for further details.

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R E M E M B R A N C E C O M M E M O R AT I O N S S U N DAY, 1 0 T H N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9

THEM REMEMBER

“ey shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them...”

Lead aerial photograph by Lincolnshire Pride’s Chief Photographer Dean Fisher.

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“Though the iconic poppy remains the symbol, the appeal is for all wars, not just the First World War...” says Ann.

THIs NovEMBER, Lincoln’s ‘Poppy Ann,’ or Ann Davidson as she’s otherwise known in the City of Lincoln will be passing the collection bucket to steve Riley and Dean Bradley, her successors, alongside their huge team of volunteers, in the city’s efforts to remember those who gave their lives for our freedom.

Ann won’t entirely be walking away from the cause, of course, but it’s fair to say she’s worked hard over the past six years as Lincoln Poppy Appeal Coordinator, working for the British Legion.

“ostensibly the Poppy Appeal is something that has its origins in the First World War,” says Ann. “Founded in 1921 using the poignant image of poppies in Flanders Fields to bring to mind all of those who died to secure our future.”

“But though the iconic poppy remains the symbol, the appeal is for all wars, not just the First World War. From the outbreak of war in 1914, there was only a single year in the 20th century that Britain wasn’t involved in a conflict somewhere in the world.”

“In fact, few realise that approximately one in six people qualify to benefit from the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.” >>

Above: The outbreak of war as reported in the press, on display at Boston’s We’ll Meet Again museum.

Right: Located in Royal Square, Woodhall Spa, the Dambusters Memorial commemorates members of 617 Squadron who lost their lives in World War Two. The memorial was erected in 1987.

Opposite: Lincolnshire’s last remaining Dambuster Squadron Leader George Leonard ‘Johnny’ Johnson.

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The centenary of the First World War was a reminder to a whole new generation of the horrors that a peak number of 3.8m British soldiers endured, and alongside husband Alex Carson, a former soldier in the Royal Engineers and Royal Logistics Corps, Ann is touched that young people are just as keen to engage and take part in with remembrance commemorations as their forebears.

“support for the Poppy Appeal has remained consistent and I think that’s a mark of the great respect that we have over a hundred years on for those who fought. Historically there has been a suggestion that the poppy as a symbol should be put to bed, but we’re glad to see that both the older and younger generations alike are keen to see the poppy remain as a symbol of the struggle against tyranny that the country endured.”

Lincoln’s largest service of remembrance will take place in Lincoln Cathedral on sunday 10th November, whilst the Lincoln Legion holds its own ceremony in High street on saturday 9th, working with the City of Lincoln Council to organise the service’s venue, attendance by the Lord Lieutenant Toby Dennis, High sheriff William Day and Rev’d Jeremy Cullimore of st Mary le Wigford Church.

under Ann’s stewardship, The Lincoln Legion’s appeal has gone from raising around £70,000 to last year’s record-breaking figure of £106,000.

In total there are 56 British Legion branches across Lincolnshire, and it takes over 130 volunteers to cover just the four large supermarket chains in the City of Lincoln during the Poppy Appeal alone.

Distributing poppies and collection tins is the job of steve Riley, who will take over as Lead organiser as Pride goes to press.

He and the city’s other Poppy Appeal organiser Dean Bradley are both serving members of the RAF and as such, both know how relevant the Legion is to modern day service personnel.

“Funds raised are put to really good use to fund all sorts of help for servicepeople and their families,” says Ann. “From helping homeless ex-servicemen to providing training to help people get back into work, to helping 19

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WE’LL MEET AGAIN: THE HOMEFRONT MUSEUM As the Second World War raged across Europe, closer to home, those left in Britain were also battling. Battling, that is, to keep up morale; to keep tummies full and to keep the land being worked and munitions made.

For an extraordinarily comprehensive and beautifully curated display of what life was like on the Home Front, visit We’ll Meet Again on Shore Road, Freiston.

The museum opened in 2017, providing a permanent home for the collection of WWII enthusiasts Paul and Linda Britchford.

A keen collector, Paul had curated a remarkable collection and toured schools with Linda to provide a hand-on education for present-day children to experience life as it would have been in the 1930s and 1940s.

Creating a place to display the collection has also enabled the curators to divide the museum into two distinct areas.

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The first features an array of WWI and WWII artefacts, original documents relevant to Boston and the rest of Lincolnshire plus a Lancaster bomber cockpit used for the recent war movie Lancaster Skies, filmed in Sleaford.

The other half of the museum has been dedicated to life on the home front with a grocery store featuring brands still recognisable today - Oxo, Brasso and More than 18,000 names Bird’s Custard - as of Lincolnshire men well as household who died during the object like dolly First World War have tubs so unfamiliar been added to the Books with younger visiof Remembrance at Lincoln tors, plus uniforms Cathedral. from doctors and nurses from the era.

The Fallen

“We also had family and friends, Boston Royal British Legion, World War Two Normandy Veteran, along with other Veterans,” says Paul.

Shore Road, Freiston, PE22 0LY, 07903 529614, wmamuseum.co.uk

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Wartime Museums

n Newark Air Museum: An impressive collection of aeroplanes from wartime to Cold War era aircraft, Newark Air Museum has been open for 45 years.

It currently houses 13 National Benchmark, 34 Significant Aircraft and 21 Noteworthy Aircraft, as well as a vast collection of memorabilia.

those with PTSD, with programmes such as Battle Back, to providing funding for funerals.”

“The charity even helps to fund development of more sophisticated prosthetic limbs, which has been especially pertinent in recent conflicts when we’ve seen the damage that IEDs can do.”

“The type of help that the charity offers is as diverse as the people it helps, and I’ve been privileged during my time to meet so many people with so many fascinating stories.”

“Something I’m glad to see is that older veterans are now being encouraged to talk about and share their experiences, which is essential not just to ensure their own voices, are heard, but to ensure future generations retain the knowledge of what happened in the conflicts with fewer veterans each year remaining to tell their stories.”

“I’ll never forget one lady I met in Lincoln who was celebrating her 100th birthday. She made us laugh and was so spirited and full of life. I think we can learn a lot from a generation that endured so much suffering and learn to move on and live in peace.”

n 617 Squadron Bar: Requisitioned as a home for the famous 617 Dambusters squadron, Woodhall Spa’s Petwood Hotel’s Squadron Bar still has a fascinating collection of memorabilia honouring the men and women of Bomber Command and specifically those who embarked on Operation Chastise.

In addition to attending the City of Lincoln’s services, or those held across Lincolnshire, the county’s International Bomber Command Memorial at Canwick is hosting its own service of commemoration.

The county also has a number of other sites ideal for those seeking to remind themselves of the effects of international conflict both at home and abroad, including the IBCC and museums like Boston’s We’ll Meet Again.

Taking time to attend not just Armistice Commemorations but the county’s other wartime sites will ensure that, at the setting of the sun, we will remember them. n

Above: The ancient and beautiful Saint Mary’s Church in Stamford was the venue for the special service, recently, followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the town’s war memorial on Broad Street to remember the Battle of Britain.

Left: Boston’s war memorial was dedicated 25th September 1921 by the Earl of Yarborough.

n Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre: Originally intended to last just ten years, Thorpe Camps it is now lovingly preserved to provide not only a glimpse into military history, but also a look into wartime civilian life. The centre also has an F3 Tornado simulator run by Dave Gledhill that can be booked for private visits, if you prefer your aviation a bit more ‘post- Frank Whittle!’

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A N

A - Z

O F

L I N C O L N S H I R E

F O O D

Food & Drink

in LINCoLNsHIRE We’ve food for thought this month with an A-Z of Lincolnshire food to celebrate local producers. It’s extraordinary that even in Lincolnshire, just one supermarket chain has a 28% market share of the UK grocery market. It’s time to look to our own country, our own farms, our own producers and our own farm shops to take back control of the food and drink we eat...

Words: Laurin Dempsey. Images: Lincolnshire Pride’s Chief Photographer Dean Fisher.

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AN A-Z OF LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD

a is for asparagus: Asparagus is best when it is fresh and has a tip which is tightly closed, before it begins to flower. This is what you should be looking out for when buying it within supermarkets. syston Farm near Grantham is home to a field, over two acres in size, which grows this nutritious vegetable. They also use traditional methods for harvesting their crop. Rather than using machines, they have employed two people who cut the asparagus, which is then bundled up and sold locally.

B is for Beer: Batemans Brewery Beer is made using Lincolnshire grown ingredients such as barley. The water in Lincolnshire is best suited for bitters, with Batemans most popular drink being Batemans XB Bitter [3.7%] The water for Batemans brewing liquor comes from Lincolnshire’s Covenham Reservoir. In 1986 Batemans XXXB was awarded Champion Beer of Britain at the Great British Beer Festival.

eight elderflower heads for each bottle of cordial it produces. This year so far, a total of 60 tonnes of elderflowers which is 3.6 million flower heads have been picked in order to keep up with the high demands of drinks. 2,750,090 bottles this year and counting…

e is for eggs: Last year, uK egg consumption was 12.2 million eggs, 3% up from the previous year. With 80 units across 17 farms, Lincolnshire’s L J Fairburn & son Limited may have grown into an enterprise which can now boast at being one of the largest egg producers and packers in the uK. The business now has 5,000,000 laying and rearing hens – 4,000,000 are owned by Fairburn’s and a million are contract producer owned. Rearing in excess of two million pullets every year for their own use and re-sale, the Fairburn family also mill over 80,000 tonnes of feed each year, including grain grown on their 2,000 acre arable farm. Proud to be producing organic, Free Range, Barn, and Colony eggs for leading uK supermarkets, Fairburn’s now produce and pack over 17 million eggs a week... an egg-straordinary volume!

Food for Thought

c is for cheese: Blessed with three of its own local cheeses and two wonderful cheese shops Lincolnshire is great for cheese lovers. The recipe for Lincolnshire Greater Lincolnshire is Poacher cheese is a cross between a traditional f is for fish: To say that Lincolnshire is a prolific responsible for growing 12% of the UK’s food and processing contributor to the uK’s seafood industry is rather an West Country cheddar and a continental Alpine 70% of its fish. The sector is understatement. Grimsby alone has over 500-food cheese such as Comte. Lincolnshire’s Poacher worth £3.4bn including related companies, and can now boast the £5.6m Cheese of Alford is absolutely committed to food retail & catering sectors.

Humber seafood institute, home to the seafish Industry producing the very best cheese with a little help from Authority. The seafood industry is worth £1.8bn to North their 230 Holstein Friesian Cows! Lymn Bank Farm cheese East Lincolnshire. is based in Thorpe st Peter near skegness and produces about 10,000 cheeses each day in the main dairy which includes 10 types g is for gingerbread: Hawken’s Gingerbread has saved the of waxed cheese. This adds up to 120 tonnes of cheese a year. Cote much-loved and well-known biscuit from becoming confined to the Hill cheese is the only soft cheese to be made in Lincolnshire and is history books when husband and wife Alastair & Kerry learned that produced on a farm near Market Rasen. the production of the biscuit for which their town had always been famous, had fallen out of production. In 1740, William Eggleston d is for drink: Lincolnshire provides a range of drinks, alcoholic opened his bakery in Grantham and accidentally stumbled across the and non-alcoholic. Pin Gin has rapidly evolved to become one of formula for gingerbread when he used the wrong ingredient. up until the county’s most recognised brands and now has a new location, the 1970s, Grantham Gingerbread continued to be sold throughout distillery, gin school and tasting room. Belvoir makes naturally the town by many bakery shops however as the number of bakeries delicious cordials, pressés and fruit crushes at its home in the within the town began to dwindle, the places selling the product on gorgeous vale of Belvoir countryside. The most popular is their their counter tops fell until 2009 when the biscuit was resurrected.>> original Elderflower Cordial, which the company says requires

lincolnshire farming & food in numbers…

Lincolnshire farmers generate £1.3bn from all the livestock, crops and produce they grow.

Lincolnshire farmers farm 73% of the land area of the county.

Lincolnshire farming and growing directly employs more than 13,500 people.

Lincolnshire grows 11% of the country’s wheat – enough to make 2bn loaves of bread a year.

Lincolnshire farmers grow enough barley to make more than 3bn pints of beer per year.

26% of England’s vegetables and leafy salads are grown in Lincolnshire.

Lincolnshire farmers produce enough turkeys annually to feed more than 8,000,000 people their Christmas dinners.

Farmers help maintain 2,940 miles of rights of way in Lincolnshire.

Lincolnshire farmers grow enough oats to make 400m bowls of porridge - enough to feed more than 10m people breakfast every single day for a year.

20% of our sugar beet is grown in Lincolnshire – enough to make 200m bags of sugar a year.

We grow 40% of England’s cut flowers and bulbs in Lincolnshire.

Lincolnshire houses more than 12% of the country’s total poultry population and produce 500m eggs a year.

Lincolnshire farmers look after more than 10,000 hectares of farm woodland, providing a home to various species and biodiversity.

66% of Lincolnshire is cared for in environmental schemes.

There are more than 168,000 pigs in the county.

Lincolnshire dairy farmers produce over 45,000,000 litres of milk a year. n

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“The award-winning Grimsby butcher John Petit claims that his recipe for the Lincolnshire sausage was the first, dating back to 1810... >> H is for Herbs: Lincolnshire Herbs based in Bourne has a sophisticated and vast facility on the edge of the town covering 20 hectares. Automated sowing, growing, climate control and irrigation mean it’s one of the most cutting-edge herb nurseries in the UK. If you’ve purchased herbs from a supermarket recently then chances are that your herbs began life in Bourne!

I is for Ice-Cream: Dennetts Ice Cream has been manufacturing homemade Lincolnshire Dairy Ice Cream to its own recipe since 1926. The fourth generation, family firm supplies over a hundred shops, cafés and restaurants across Lincolnshire as well as dozens of Lincolnshire Co-op stores. There are over 30 flavours to try.

J is for Jam: Jenny Smith of Jenny’s Jams is a trained chef and has been making her award-winning fruit preserves for over 10 years.

Created in Lincoln, Jenny uses local fresh ingredients where possible and is now fulfilling regular orders from the Lincolnshire Co-operative Society.

Boston is one of the largest operating windmills in England being 80 feet tall to the cap ball.

N is for New Potatoes: The Boston area is famous for its early new potato production, much the same as a Jersey Royal crop. This is because of the relatively comparative dry climate and unique silty, light soils. New potatoes come from special varieties of early maturity.

The seed is planted as soon as the soil is dry enough after winter, often grown under soil warming polythene for extra earliness.

A true new potato is harvested from around in late spring or early summer when the crop is still immature and the tops are lush green, giving them the delicate, sweet and distinctive flavour. The sign of a true new potato is when the skins easily rub off before cooking. This is because they are still young and have not ‘set’ their skins yet.

New potatoes are very often confused with main season salad potatoes which are grown to be a small set skin potato, though they do not have the same flavour... because they are small does not always mean they are ‘new’! South Holland alone accounts for 5% of the English potato production area.

Food Miles

K is for Kale: Most British kale is grown in Lincolnshire, where the rich, moisture-retentive soil suits brassicas particularly well. Kale is an excellent O is for Ostrich: Ostrich Farming at White House Despite our local food and source of vitamins K, A and C, as well as containing farm in Lincolnshire started in 1994 being one of farming industries, the UK still imports around £8bn useful amounts of manganese, copper and the first Ostrich Farms in the UK. With 27 breeding of fruit and veg a year, rather phytochemicals, believed to help against certain Ostriches laying one egg every other day during the than looking to our own types of cancer. One grower, Staples Vegetables, season, from April to August. Six weeks later chicks farmers to supply our food... employ around 600 people and believe to be the hatch and are the size of a small chicken! They will live largestsingle production unit of brassicas in Britain. The together in groups of 10 - 12 and stay in this family group firm’s long-term strategy is acquisition and investment in the for the rest of their lives. best farms available, in order to deliver the highest possible quality, P is for Pumpkins: David Bowman is Europe’s largest pumpkin availability and value to their customers, the brassica firm says. grower. From his farm near Spalding in Lincolnshire, he grows and sells two million pumpkins each year to supermarkets in the UK, L is for Livestock: From medieval times, sheep and cattle were walked all the way from the Wolds to the coast to spend the summer and to other suppliers across Europe. His pumpkin facility was built fattening on the rich pasture of the marshes. More recently, cattle in 1997 and has recently been extended to cope with increased came by train as far as Mumby Road Station. Today, there are very demand. The company has supplied thousand pumpkins for two few sheep in the county, but the grassland is still good, and you will display events in Paris, and he also supplies for the Spalding Pumpkin see both dairy and beef cattle like the native Lincoln Red here.

Festival.

M is for Mills: Last month in Pride we looked at Lincolnshire’s working mills, which are continuing to provide us with stoneground flour for those who enjoy home baking. The Maud Foster Mill in Right: Image by Dean Fisher shows combining of cereals around Boston.

Lincolnshire Wolds grower Tim Lamyman holds the UK record for wheat yields of 16.5t/ha.

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Q is for Quinoa: Long Sutton based Dunns have a three year contract to process the UK’s quinoa crop, farming in Shropshire.

The company has been producing 20 tonnes of quinoa since 2013.

From Lincolnshire’s factories grocers like Waitrose and chains such as Pret à Manger are supplied. >>

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R is for Restaurants: Lincolnshire has a wealth of restaurants - that’s why we’re seeking to promote the very best of them with our Good Food Awards, which includes our Restaurant of the Year title. Vote for your favourite restaurants and you could win free dining out throughout 2020. See later in this edition for more information!

S is for Sausages: The earliest recorded reference to a recipe for a Lincolnshire sausage dates back to May 1886. However, the award-winning Grimsby butcher John Petit has claimed that his family recipe is the first, dating back to 1810. The Lincolnshire sausage has an annual festival, dedicated to it, held every October in the grounds of Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral.

T is for Tea & Coffee: Stokes Tea and Coffee all began in 1892 when Robert William Stokes, moved to the city of Lincoln. Four generations, and many a brew later, they remain strong. John and Susie Carlisle have created the county’s own Lincolnshire blend of tea in 2017.

U is for Unrefined Sugar: 20% of the UK’s sugar beet is grown in Lincolnshire; enough to make 200m bags of sugar a year. Sown in the spring to grow through the summer, the harvested crop travels on average 28 miles to one of British Sugar’s four processing plants in Bury St Edmunds, Cantley, Newark and Wissington.

V is for Vegetables: Lincolnshire is one of the country’s prime agricultural areas – farmers grow over 12 per cent of the UK’s potato

crop and 30 per cent of its field vegetables including brassicas like kale, cabbage and broccoli plus carrots, peas and onions.

W is for Wine: Lincolnshire has three commercial Vineyards. Ovens Farm Vineyard in Louth is the most well-known with five acres of vines. Lincolnshire is more prodigious than other counties as a UK wine producer.

X is for Xmas! Just one supermarket chain alone claims to sell 140,000,000 brussels sprouts in the two-week run up to Christmas.

Many people are also unaware that there are fewer than 110 varieties in total. TH Clements and Staples begin their hard work in early Spring when their crop is planted out in greenhouse modules and planted out into the fields in May and harvested from as early as August.

Y is for Yellow: Fields across Lincolnshire are packed with the bright yellow flowers of oilseed rape. Around 400,000 hectares of oilseed rape is grown annually in the UK; one eighth of the area of wheat.

Z is for Zero Waste: As the country works towards the elimination of plastic the new material is emerging for packaging that is the by-product of potatoes. This means that it will decompose to nutrients for the soil in only two months when it ends up in the nature.

Championing the cause is James Dyson one of Britain’s biggest farmers and owner of Beeswax Dyson Farming in Lincoln. n 29

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THE GUNSMITH

BELvoIR’s

BIG sHoT

Ensuring that true craftsmanship endures and that country folk have a true specialist on their doorstep, Rowland Watson Gunmakers’ Mark Knezevic is a real big shot in the county...

Words: Carissa Smith. Images: Lincolnshire Pride’s Chief Photographer Dean Fisher.

Rowland Watson is a big shot. with a traditional cotton apron and oil-scented workshop, it’s one of the oldest gunmakers in the country, with a proud legacy stretching back over three centuries and an enviable location at the engine Yard retail village at Belvoir castle. headed up by remarkable gunsmith, mark Knezevic is reviving the historic company and hopes to preserve the artisan trade of gunmaking with the opening of his store this year on the estate. it’s rare to have a gun shop and a full gun repair service in one place, so mark has created a truly unique business. since its birth in 1723, rowland watson gunmakers has been at the forefront of the Birmingham gunmaking industry with nearly three centuries of history. it is this history, along with his passion for craftsmanship, that drew mark to the role. mark has been in the gunsmith industry for over 34 years and even before mark became a professional gunsmith, it was always a hobby. “my father used to shoot with the duke of devonshire. my father was an engineer by trade, and he would repair guns.”

“he had a workshop in our garden - this was before the days of health and safety legislation when laws changed - so i would watch him repair the guns and i became fascinating by the process.” “at the age of about 11 i began to help my father and made parts for the guns he worked on. my father and i soon realised i had a natural talent for this.” after leaving school mark studied mechanical engineering. “if i lived in london,” he explains, “i would probably have begun an apprenticeship with a london gunmaker. instead, i worked as a mechanical engineering apprentice and now i am a qualified engineer.

But it wasn’t until i was, sadly, made redundant that i turned my hobby into a full-time career, a real example of turning tragedy into triumph.” rowland watson gunmakers, is that greatest of clichés; a ‘one stop shop’ for those who pursue shooting as an interest, offering a selection of guns, ammunition and shooting accessories. e restoring, renovating and repairing of guns is the core of mark’s business though and with his experience and skill, he can repair all types of guns from flintlock pistols to modern day guns. >> 33

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THE COUNTRYSIDE GUNSMITH

>> repairing such guns is a work of love for mark and it is a skilled craft. “i am very proud to be a gunsmith. a large amount of time and skill is needed to reproduce a part for a gun which could have been made 120 years ago before the existence of precise machines, standardised components.” “ere are no part lists or components available, so i have to make all parts in store by hand. my ethos is that a repair is only truly successful if a customer can’t tell that a repair has been carried out.” “at’s what i strive for with all repairs. some of the guns i repair are historically important and it’s also important to ensure repairs are within keeping of the date of the gun, preserving its provenance.” “i often work with guns over 100 years old and completing a sympathetic restoration is the favourite part of my job. if a customer brings in a gun or i purchase one 34

“A repair is truly successful if a customer can’t tell that one has been carried out...” which isn’t aesthetically pleasing i enjoy restoring it back to its original condition. at doesn’t mean i want it to look ‘new’ but it should present a condition commensurate with its age or the fact that it has served a practical purpose. i want it to feel and appear as it would have done all those years ago. i love achieving that balance.” even though, we know mark to be extremely accomplished and skilled in guncraft, we’re surprised that he still refers to himself a gun apprentice. “i am always learning something new, so i call myself a gun apprentice.. albeit one with lots of experience!”

“i enjoy a challenge, so it is always a good day when a customer brings in a problem with a gun i have not seen before. within guncraft you are always learning how to fix new problems and make new parts.” from our first conversation with mark his passion for his store and craft was apparent. even as a gun novice mark taught me about the different guns available and the beautiful craftsmanship behind these artefacts. e store is open to all customers and mark will give any experienced or novice gun user free advice. especially interesting is the store’s archive, which contains record books that serve as a working history of guns stretching back hundreds of years. gun owners from all over the world can trace the history of their antique pieces. “we are a retail store, of course, and the business is my livelihood. But i always say the running of the business comes second to the passion i have!” says mark.

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“i am always happy to give advice and guidance to customers, novice or experienced. ere aren’t many gunmakers around so i am proud to be one and i want to preserve that knowledge.” mark’s clients range from just 14 years of age to his oldest customers, the most senior of whom is now 92. he has worked with guns priced at a modest £200 to those worth many hundreds of thousands of pounds. “i don’t have a favourite gun. But i do like side-by-side traditional guns and i have a particular soft spot for the gunmakers w r pape, formerly of newcastle upon tyne.” “i prefer provincial makers rather than a london maker. even though, london makers such as James purdy and sons are the some of the best in the world, i prefer provincial makers such as w r pape, rowland watson, westley richards and charles rosson of norwich.

rowland watson offers small and complex renovations and repairs of guns. mark is also pioneering the removal of lead in ammunition to help make is more environmentally friendly. marks also sells traditional outdoor country clothing from tweed jackets and moleskins to hunting boots, as well as accessories from gloves and socks to glasses and leather bags. “is is an exciting time for this business. the Belvoir estate is renowned for its shoots, e gun trade was - still is - very competitive. so there really is no better place for us to be. everyone needed to compete with london i’m very proud to be continuing the trade.erefore, provincial gunmakers had to rowland watson legacy and want to do all work much harder and i believe that their i can to preserve this artisan trade and keep traditional gun making skills alive. i’m also craftsmanship is especially phenomenal.” very proud to be making our home here with “when you see these historic guns, you have the support of the duchess of rutland.” to remember these were built before electricity and everything would have been done by n Rowland Watson Gunmakers is hand in candlelight which would have made open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm them much more difficult to produce. it was in the closed season with out of hours low-tech, relying solely on craftsmanship, and appointments upon request. Call 01476 879177 or see www.rowlandwatson.com. i think there is something special in that.”

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THEN & NOW

Louth’s Market Place From 1955 to 2019 you’d expect a town’s Market Place to change quite considerably. But remarkably, the centre of Louth remains very much recognisable...

Images: Francis Frith Collection, Dean Fisher.

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There’s no doubt that online shopping and tough times for larger retailers have irrevocably changed the face of our High streets. Fortunately there are a few remaining enclaves of independent retailers thriving even in today’s tough markets.

Below: Louth’s Old Market Hall was created by Rogers & Marsden in 1866. Our inset picture, below, shows the back of the building, modelled on King’s Cross Station.

In the south of the county, stamford is still a haven for independent retailers, whilst in the north of the county, Louth remains a thriving home to businesses like Pocklingtons and Eve & Ranshaw.

Home to 16,000 people and one of just seven market towns mentioned in the Domesday Book, Louth saw a particularly lively period of growth in the first half of the 1800s, prior to the arrival of the railway in 1848. Gasworks came along in 1826 and the town’s New street was created in 1830.

A new town hall was built in 1854 along with George street in 1850 and the Corn Exchange in 1855.

The town’s street names commonly reflected their former uses prior to this - Butcher Lane, Fish shambles and Cornmarket, for example and Mercer Row; a fine cloth dealer was known historically as a mercer.

The most prominent building in this image is old Market Hall, built in 1866 by Rogers & Marsden and modelled on King’s Cross station, London. It’s three storeys, created in red brick with a Welsh slate roof. Pevsner described the building as ‘Byzantine Gothic.’

Also seen here is the National Provincial Bank, which was merged into the National Westminster Bank in 1970 and local bakery Pocklingtons, established in 1924, replacing Clarks of Retford, a dry cleaning business and dyehouse thriving on the resurgence of the process thanks to the introduction of better solvents a decade or so beforehand. other food retailers in the town include Louth’s Cheese shop, award-winning butcher Meridian Meats and Beaumont’s Deli next to st James’ Church.

With around 57 stalls, Louth’s market is still held three times a week and with 70% of its businesses independently owned and run, it’s little surprise that the town was named Britain’s Favourite Market Town back in 2012 by Countryfile. A favourite for foodies and a true example of how local retailers can thrive even in the 21st century, we’ve no doubt that centuries from now, Louth will still be recognisable as one of Lincolnshire’s champions of independent market towns. n

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Trust what the legal experts tell you

and ensure a property purchase protects your assets.

By Sally Wright, Solicitor in the Property team at Wilkin Chapman solicitors.

A COUPLE’S decision to buy a home together is likely to be the largest financial commitment they will make and should signal a period of settled happiness.

However, those who purchase a property as cohabitees must realise that they do not have the same rights as those of a married couple or in a civil partnership – and this could have a significant impact upon the division of assets if things turn sour.

It has long been a priority of lawyers to warn of the need for greater awareness of the lack of legal protection for unmarried couples and this is imperative when it comes to property ownership by cohabitees.

It may be a second or third relationship for a more mature couple, or a young partnership taking their first step onto the property ladder, but there will be millions of unmarried couples who decide to pool resources and buy a home. The problems come further down the line, if the relationship breaks down.

If there is no legal agreement entered into at the outset, when the property is purchased, then things can become extremely messy, with no accounting for either side of the partnership contributing more. Taking the deposit as an example – one member of the couple could have given the lion’s share, it could have been gifted by a relative, mum or dad perhaps, or it could be inheritance from a loved one.

But if the couple part, there is no legal right for the asset to be divided in a

“ Need for greater awareness of the lack of legal protection for unmarried couples...”

way that reflects the contributions made unless appropriate steps have been taken at the time of purchase.

In our experience, this has caused problems over, and over, again – not

only in terms of the financial issues, but also in pouring fuel on what can be a complicated and tense situation.

Obtaining thorough legal advice on how a jointly owned property should be held (joint tenants or tenants in common) and, if necessary, entering into a legally-binding ‘Declaration of Trust’ will ensure certainty, and is perhaps something parents should insist on if they are gifting a deposit?

This declaration confirms the beneficial ownership of a property in the proportions contributed and protects the interests of those who have contributed.

To discuss this in further detail, Sally Wright can be contacted on 01472 246681, email sallylouise.wright@wilkinchapman.co.uk or visit wilkinchapman.co.uk

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OLYMPIC SWIMMER BRENDA FISHER

sINK oR

sWIM

Local sporting star, Brenda Fisher formerly held the women’s world record for swimming the English Channel.

Pride’s Carissa Smith spoke to this truly remarkable Grimsby lady to find out more about her childhood, her prolific swimming career and her legacy in the water…

Words: Carissa Smith. Image: Dean Fisher.

An unlikely world record holder, Brenda Fisher was born June 1927 in scartho. Brenda began competitive swimming at the age of nine.. and even though she had always been a strong swimmer, along with her sister and brother, her parents couldn’t actually swim.

“I think my love for swimming cames from my brother and sister,” Brenda says. “We used to holiday in Mablethorpe every year and my brother and sister were always swimming in the sea and I just followed what they did.”

Brenda’s brother and sister both swam the Humber and Brenda as the youngest sibling followed their path. Brenda’s swimming career started when she nine years old and joined her local swimming club, the Mermaids in Grimsby. Brenda continued swimming through her teenage years and during World War II where her brother, an RAF pilot, died.

As well as swimming, Brenda was also a keen ballroom dancer and took part in ballroom dancing competitions throughout her teens. By the late 1940s though, Brenda’s swimming career had overtaken her love for ballroom dancing and as a youngster, Brenda took part in some open water races in Morecombe Bay. However, nothing from these races suggested world record potential yet.

“I always thought of myself as an average swimmer. I used to do the 100 yards freestyle, so I actually began as a speed swimmer. It was my sister who was the distance swimmer.”

It was also Brenda’s sister that persuaded her to enter the life-changing Chanel swim competition in 1951. The two women planned to swim together, in memory of their brother Buster, but Brenda’s sister fell ill with appendicitis and had to drop out, so Brenda decided to continue alone. When race day arrived, Brenda didn’t have any thoughts of winning.

“I never thought about it,” she says. “I just wanted to get across!”

When she eventually finished the race and hit the coast somewhere near st Margaret's Bay, to the east of Dover, Brenda had no idea she had won the competition. It was only when the rest of her team had made it back to Dover, she discovered she was the first woman home.

Brenda was the 23rd swimmer to arrive at Dover and the first lady to complete a new record women’s time of 12 hours 42 minutes, breaking the previous women’s record of 13 hours 20 minutes set by Florence Chadwick a year earlier. >> 41

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BRENDA FISHER

At Brenda’s homecoming, after completing her debut channel swim, more than 60,000 people lined the streets of Grimsby. Brenda was awarded £1,000 and a silver cup gifted by Eva Peron.

Brenda tell us, “I am quite a shy person, so I never enjoyed too much attention or public speaking. It was a great honour having all those people turn out for me, but I would rather swim the channel again then face all those people in the Town Hall. After that event my sister always helped me with any interviews or speeches!”

Brenda has had many celebrated achievements across her swimming career, but she tells us the 1951 Channel swim is still her biggest achievement and most memorable swim in her career.

After the 1951 Channel swim, Brenda swam the Channel again in 1954 and was the first women ashore and in 1956, Brenda completed and won the 29-mile River Nile swim.

Brenda also became the third person in history to complete the 32-mile Lake ontario swim from Niagara to Toronto. Brenda completed this swim in 18 hours and 50 minutes.

“Lake ontario in Canada is the most incredible place I have competed. It was a lovely setting and the local people were really nice. A couple from Grimsby actually lived in Canada and they looked after me whilst I was there.”

It is clear Brenda had an amazing stamina and a capacity for hard work. Brenda trained in a pool every morning and in Alexandra Dock in the evening.

At the weekends she regularly completed six-hour swims under the direction of her coach, Mr McNally - who was the same coach she’d started with as a nine-year old.

In 1952 Brenda was named Britain’s leading sportswoman.

Brenda’s well deserve fame also bought her celebrity attention and she appeared on The Ed sullivan show and even met Elvis Presley!

Brenda hung up her racing costume in 1956 and became a swimming instructor in Grimsby. The champion swimmer went on to found Cleethorpes and District swimming Club and santa Marina swimming club. Brenda has taught generations of swimmers the joy of the sport and she continued to swim for pleasure for many years. However, now at the age of 92 Brenda feels she is too old for swimming and enjoys a relaxed lifestyle.

In 2015, local author Lucy Wood published Brenda’s biography, ‘Blonde in Deep Water.’

Brenda says “since Lucy wrote the book the feedback I’ve received has been wonderful. At my time of life, it is amazing.”

Latterly, Brenda was also awarded a blue plaque in Grimsby to mark her achievements which is erected at the Fishing Heritage Centre and a British Empire Medal by the Queen in the 2017 New Year’s Honours list.

“I’ve tried to help Grimsby as it’s an honour to be a Grimbarian - I’ve lived in the house I live in now for all of my 92 years. It has been swimming all of the way and I hope that I've helped to put Grimsby on the map!” n

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NORTH KESTEVEN

Discovering the Heart of

LINCOLNSHIRE A district of flourishing communities, plus a compelling look into Lincolnshire’s industrial heritage. North Kesteven offers visitors a fascinating look into the past, from Cogglesford Mill and Navigation House to a forthcoming reopening of Mrs Smith’s Cottage at Navenby...

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Lincolnshire Pride’s Chief Photographer Dean Fisher.

Imagine a development that rapidly changes the look and feel of your town. Changes its prosperity and the way people work and earn money. Perhaps the closest analogy we can draw on in our lifetime is the advent of the internet, which has changed the way we all trade, shop and communicate. Back in 1794, when Sleaford’s Navigation opened, the commercial landscape of the area changed in just such a way, and prospered for around a century afterwards.

Indeed, history repeated itself in the 1850s with the advent of another transport technology in the form of the railway. This time, Sleaford was economically damaged rather than welcoming in a new era of prosperity. This time it was all but bypassed as a mere halfway house between Grantham and Boston.

It was a fascinating era of ups and downs for the town, and today Sleaford’s industrial legacy is preserved by North Kesteven District Council which is working hard to ensure future generations can see what life was like in the town.

At the heart of the Sleaford Navigation is Cogglesford Mill, at one point one of 18 mills between Chapel Hill and Sleaford. The current building dates back from the late 18th century, replacing historic mills on the site over the course of the previous 1,000 years.

Hemp Mill, Hurn Mill, Bone Mill, Holdingham Mill, Paper, Willow and Haverholme Mill are all long gone, but fortunately the District Council rescued Cogglesford Mill also known as Sheriff ’s Mill - in 1991 and restored it so that 9,300 visitors a year can enjoy the site and learn about it in the context of the town’s overall wealth, prosperity and history.

The mill rumbles into operation when grinding using its waterwheel, though currently its mechanism is in need of restoration of its broken paddles to preserve it for future generations.

Cogglesford still hosts regular milling days during which it makes its own flour, currently under engine power, but soon once again, it will put its waterwheel to good use. >> Opposite: Cogglesford Mill was built in the late 18th century, and was given a Grade II listing in 1973. The mill still hosts regular Milling Days with the next ones taking place on 10th November and 8th December. The waterwheel is currently in need of repair and funding options are being explored.

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R E S TO R I N G M R S S M I T H ’ S C O T TA G E For most of her life, Hilda Smith lived in Craven Cottage in Navenby, the cottage which simply became known as Mrs Smith’s Cottage.

Living in the property for decades, changing it little over time thanks to her austere lifestyle, the cottage became almost a time capsule, a window into the past for visitors.

Structural concerns led to the temporary closure of the cottage in 2012 pending a Heritage Lottery Bid funded restoration of the time capsule so it could be reopened to visitors once again.

A second stage of the refurbishment was awarded funding in September 2018, and work is currently approaching completion so that visitors can once again take a trip back in time to see how Mrs Smith and many other Lincolnshire residents would have lived.

In addition to structural repairs, the work will create a museum with interpretation, a redesign of the cottage garden, the creation of an outreach programme with learning activities, plus better engagement between the attraction and the community through more marketing.

“Minimal alterations to the Cottage since its construction in the 1830s means most original features remain intact,” says Anne Flannery.

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“Our project includes urgent repairs and conservation work, reinterpretation of the site, a new learning programme and range of events and activities.”

“Hilda Craven was born in Navenby in 28th October 1892.

She was orphaned at an early age and was brought up in Navenby by her adoptive mother Mary Barrand.”

North Kesteven

“Hilda left school The district of North in May 1906.

Kesteven covers 356 square Her first job was miles. 90% of its land is as a ‘day girl’ agricultural, with over for Mr Dawson 100 communities and a the butcher on population of the corner of 115,230.

Church Lane, Navenby.”

“She lived in the Cottage until just after her 102 birthday when she became too frail to return after a fall. Our project will bring Mrs Smith’s Cottage back into use as a popular heritage attraction, restoring the cottage to its place at the heart of the local community and ensuring its vital contribution to the visitor economy, whilst providing an enjoyable, engaging visitor experience,” says Anne.

A joint project between NKDC, HLF, Friends of Mrs Smith’s Cottage, plus Lincoln Conservation, Navenby Primary School and The Navenby & Cliff Villages Business Network, Mrs Smith’s Cottage is expected to reopen in early 2020. n

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Three to See In North Kesteven

n Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre: Exploring the role of Bomber County since the formation of RAF College Cranwell in 1916. Discover the fascinating story of the historic Royal Air Force College Cranwell and become a pilot on the Jet Provost flight simulator. www.heartoflincs.com/cranwell

>> visitors can walk along the River slea past local nature reserves like Lollycocks Fields and The Nettles, past sleaford Leisure Centre and onto the National Centre for Craft & Design, picking up the story of sleaford’s industrial heritage at Navigation House, built in 1839 and once the centre of sleaford’s role in transporting goods.

The navigation fed into the work of four coach and carriage manufacturers and the town’s iron & brass foundry, owned by the Payne family, who had their own wharf and vessels, trading in coal, corn, cattle feed, timber. Amongst the goods they traded, Cogglesford Mill also helped to keep the Payne family and other merchants in profit, thanks to The Corn Laws. sleaford even had its own bottled water factory, Lee & Green’s, built in 1883... a good ten years before Perrier!

The area soon became the heart of Bomber County, with Cranwell’s aviation college, created in 1916, still training the RAF’s officers and aircrew.

RAF College Cranwell’s heritage is also celebrated at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum. one of the most famous landmarks in RAF history, the museum portrays the fascinating story of one of the most famous landmarks in RAF history, from its early days as a Royal Naval Air service base to the current day.

n Navigation House, Sleaford: This Grade II listed property was once home to trade along the Sleaford Navigation. Built in 1838 and restored with interactive exhibits and lots of information about the area’s most prominent businesses. www.heartoflincs.com/navhouse

The experience includes interactive exhibits including a jet flight simulator, vampire T11 cockpit, exhibitions and artefacts. There is also a courtyard area with a Provost aircraft.

The Heart of Lincs’ new website of the same name celebrates the district and promotes all of the history, heritage and areas of natural beauty around the town of sleaford, and flourishing communities from Heckington to Hykeham.

With these attractions and the reopening of Mrs smith’s Cottage at Navenby in 2020, the Heart of Lincolnshire is beating stronger than ever for residents and visitors looking to explore the county’s heritage. n

n National Centre for Craft & Design: The National Centre for Craft and Design in Sleaford, Lincolnshire is the largest venue in England entirely dedicated to the exhibition, celebration and promotion of international national and local craft and design. 20 exhibitions each year, as well as Writers’ Groups and Unplugged musical sessions. www.nccd.org.uk.

Find Out More: North Kesteven has a new website, www.heartoflincs.com, which provides information about the district’s best visitor attractions, events, its food & drink and accommodation.

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EVENTS

What’s On...

GRANTHAM

SPALDING

wednesday 20th november

Thursday 24th ocTober, Thursday 31st ocTober

The big band aT chrisTmas

fireworks & lighTs aT springfields

With Five Star Swing! Enjoy all your favourite Christmas songs with the dynamic Big Band treatment from Glenn Miller, Sinatra, Basie, Nat King Cole - jazzing up those Jingle Bells!

It’s ‘true!’ Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp will be switching on the Springfields Illuminations on Thursday 24th October.

The evening will be hosted

by John Marshall and Joseph Begley from Lincs FM with live entertainment from St Paul’s Community Primary School Choir. Entry is free and all stores are open to 9pm.

Meanwhile, enjoy an evening of fancy dress, spooky family entertainment and Friday Night Fireworks at Springfields on 31st Oct. The winner of the adult fancy dress competition will win a £500 Springfields Gift Card whilst the kids winner will receive a Nintendo Switch.

n Guildhall Arts Centre, Grantham from 7.30pm. Tickets £14-16. Call 01476 406158 or see www.guildhallartscentre.com.

LINCOLN

Tuesday 26th november

lighT up a life

n See www.springfieldsoutlet.co.uk.

Burghley Christmas Fair

FESTIVE FOOD, GIFTS AND DECORATIONS IN THE BEAUTIFUL SETTING OF STAMFORD’S ELIZABETHAN STATELY HOME...

STAMFORD

Thursday 28th november - sunday 1st december

burghley house chrisTmas fair

Burghley House’s biggest ever Christmas Fair. Wander amongst the Elizabethan surroundings of the Chestnut Courtyard and Brewhouse, heated marquees and Fine Food Market. Enjoy a perfect Christmas shopping opportunity in the festive surroundings of Lincolnshire’s Elizabethan stately home. During the Christmas Fair the estate’s Christmas Shop will once again offer Christmas bargains and decorations. n 9.30am-4pm (3.30pm on Sunday).

To find out more visit burghley.co.uk.

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Join St Barnabas Hospice and remember your loved ones at their annual Light Up Life celebrations.

These unique celebrations are a special time for families and friends to join together in remembering the people that they love, who are no longer with us.

n Lincolnshire Showground, £14.99/Adult; £10/Child. 10am.

Call 01522 522900 or see lincolnshireshowground.co.uk.

DODDINGTON

Thursday 21st november

TaiTTinger champagne TasTing Join Taittinger Champagne, established in 1743, at Doddington Hall for a blind tasting of their amazing champagnes.

n 7-9pm; Tickets £TBA. Advance booking required, call 01522 688581.

Based at Doddington Hall’s Farm Shop, Doddington, Lincolnshire LN6 4RU or see www.doddingtonhall.com.

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

GRANTHAM

saturdaY 23rd novemBer

the sinatra storY

Award winning singing Robert Habermann sings the unforgettable songs and tells the remarkable story of the most popular singers of the 20th century. swinging his way through the 1950s - recording the greatest 20th Century popular songs. n Guildhall Arts Centre, Grantham, 2pm,

tickets £16pp. Visit guildhallartscentre.com or call 01476 406158.

GRANTHAM

saturdaY 2nd novemBer

Bonfire and fireworKs at the engine Yard With the Engine Yard as the perfect location for great fireworks and bonfire, the Belvoir Estate’s Duchess of Rutland has been working hard to perfect this event after identifying ways to improve it from last year.

SPALDING

Expect a great selection of food outlets including the Fuel Tank and external Street Food Vendors. Performances from brilliant bands and fireworks to blow your socks off from MLE Pyrotechnics.

Tickets will be available to purchase soon, and of course, there’s a great opportunity to begin your festive shopping with 15 different luxury retailers.

n Belvoir Castle, Woolsthorpe Road,

Grantham NG32 1PA. Call 01476 871001 or see www.engineyardbelvoir.com.

Bring yourself sunshine and enjoy Eric & Ernie

THE FESTIVE SEASON JUST ISN’T THE FESTIVE SEASON WITHOUT LAUGHTER COURTESY OF ERIC & ERNIE!

saturdaY 16th novemBer

42nd street: the musical

BOSTON

sundaY 19th - sat 23rd novemBer

sunset Boulevard

Presented by Boston operatic society, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s aging silent film queen refuses to accept that her stardom has ended. she hires a young screenwriter to help set up her movie comeback. Leading to violence, madness, and death.

n Boston’s Blackfriars Arts Centre,

from 2pm and 7.30pm, tickets £15.

Call 01205 363108 or see www.blackfriarsartscentre.co.uk SANDRINGHAM

Tony Award-winning musical and it was filmed live at the magnificent Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, in the heart of London’s West End. Featuring iconic songs 42nd street, We’re In The Money, Lullaby of Broadway, and I only Have Eyes For You.

sandringham craft, food & gift fair 2019

2pm and 7pm; tickets £10-14.

Call 0177564777 or visit www.southhollandcentre.co.uk.

Kings Lynn Norfolk PE35 6EN. Call 01283 820548 or see www.livingheritagecraftshows.com.

n South Holland Centre, Spalding.

SCUNTHORPE

wednesdaY 13th novemBer

an evening of eric & ern

If there are two funnier comedians than Eric and Ernie, we’ve yet to hear of them.

This is a brilliant homage crammed full of renditions of those famous comedy sketches, that hits all the right notes!

From Greig’s piano concerto with Mr Preview to the sublime breakfast sketch.

This is a show full of Morecambe and Wise’s most loved routines, songs and sketches and of course musical guests.

fridaY 15th novemBer sundaY 17th novemBer

Living Heritage presents a festive shopping opportunity on the Royal sandringham estate.

n Based on the Sandringham Estate,

This wonderful show, evokes memories of times when whole families would huddle around the telly on sunday evenings, or at Christmas for the duo’s festive specials. Look our for a preview of Ian Ashpitel and Jonty stephens online and you’ll see how faithfully the duo recreate the magic of Morcambe and Wise, from one-liners to the pair’s slapstick comedy. What did you think of that then? ‘Rubbish!’ n Based at Scunthorpe’s Baths Hall, Doncaster Road, Scunthorpe DN15 7RG. From 7.30pm, tickets £25.40. Call 0844 8542776 or see www.scunthorpetheatres.co.uk.

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EVENTS

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

Enjoy a Christmas (Nut) Cracker...

THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET AND OPERA HOUSE PRESENT FESTIVE CLASSIC, TCHAIKOVSKY’S NUTCRACKER AT GRIMSBY AUDITORIUM GRIMSBY

wednesdaY 27th novemBer

the nutcracKer at grimsBY auditorium

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to your local theatre for a dazzling production of the most famous ballet in the world, The Nutcracker, featuring live orchestra with over 30 musicians.

Beautifully presented, the Russian state Ballet and opera House returns for their annual uK tour with a vibrant and enchanting full touring ballet production. snow flurries, sweets, princes, magic and love are just some of

the elements that will be brought together by this renowned Russian company.

A highly accessible ballet, full of familiar music such as the Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the sugar Plum Fairy.

The Nutcracker is an eternal seasonal favourite, directed and choreographed by the former award winning Bolshoi Ballet soloist, Konstantin uralsky.

This ballet continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of all generations across the world. It is a truly captivating piece of theatre, a wonderful introduction to ballet whilst retaining its appeal for anyone

who is familiar with it. Clara is given an enchanted Nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. As midnight strikes, she creeps downstairs to find a magical adventure awaiting her and her Nutcracker. Loosely based on the story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the ballet begins in the 19th-century German home of the stahlbaums, where they are hosting a lively Christmas party. The period setting is captured in opulent detail here thanks to the company’s stunning production values.

n Wednesday 27th 7.30pm, tickets from £24/child and £29/adult. Grimsby Auditorium, Cromwell Rd, Grimsby, DN31 2BH. Call 0300 300035 or visit www.grimsbyauditorium.org.uk.

LINCOLN

saturdaY 9th to sundaY 10th novemBer

lincolnshire well-Being show 2019 There are 180 reasons to visit the Epic Centre on the county’s showground in November with this holistic well-being show offers a pre-Christmas pick-me-up, with Yoga and Tai Chi demonstrations and inspirational speakers.

180 exhibitors present services and information relative with talks, miniworkshops and stage presentations all providing a super visitor experience.

The Epic Centre is an eco building with a low carbon footprint with large windows incorporated in the construction flooding the Centre with natural light.

n 10am to 5pm, admission £5 daily or £8 weekend ticket.

Call 01522 522900 or see www.lincolnshire showground.co.uk.

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Lincoln at Christmas

CELEBRATIONS OF THE FESTIVE SEASON BEGINS IN THE CITY OF LINCOLN THIS MONTH...

celeBrating christmas at doddington...

Pantomime Fun DAMEs, GAMEs & GIGGLEs as pantomime season starts in Lincoln next month. Don’t miss Robin Hood as Lincoln’s longest running traditional Christmas pantomime is set to continue with laughs, boos, and audience participation for all the family to enjoy at the New Theatre Royal from Tuesday 3rd December to 5th January, starring as Fairy stardust is Melinda Messenger alongside children’s

Let There Be Light!

GET READY FoR A MAGICAL CHRIsTMAs as Doddington transforms into an enchanted forest, with surprises for all the family. Doddington Hall & Gardens is a magnificent manor house and gardens near Lincoln which is known for its spectacular Christmas decorations, festive entertainment and locally produced food.

The season sees the return of the best dressed Christmas tree competition as well as festive retail outlets, The Bauble Barn, the Toy Box and home-grown Christmas trees. Doddington’s popular Farm shop will also provide a wide range of local and artisan produce. Guests can also enjoy ‘late night’ shopping and ‘twilight tours’ of the hall. www.doddingtonhall.com.

Start the countdown to Christmas at the annual fun-packed Christmas Lights Switch On at St Marks Shopping Centre and Waterside, Friday 22nd November, from 4.45pm to 7.30pm.

Tv’s Barney Harwood.

Meanwhile at Drill Hall, Jamie Marcus Productions, presents its 2019 show, Cinderella - the most magical of all pantos - from Thursday 5th December 4th January. newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk, or www.lincolndrillhall.com.

lincoln christmas market 2019...

LINCoLN’s CHRIsTMAs MARKET returns for 2019 from Thursday 5th December to sunday 8th December. 200 stalls, live performers, and festive cheer all take over Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter for four days of festive entertainment, shopping, plus lots of delicious food and drink. www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk.

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CHRISTMAS IN LINCOLN

LINCOLN’S CHRISTMAS MARKET TAKES PLACE FROM THURSDAY 5TH TO SUNDAY 8TH DECEMBER!

Christmas at the Cathedral NATuRALLY, LINCoLN CATHEDRAL will be central to your festive celebrations, beginning with a performance of Handel’s Messiah in the lead up to Advent on 23rd November. Lincoln Cathedral Choir will be performing the seasonal favourite in the grand nave of the Cathedral, including one of the most famous pieces of choral music, the Hallelujah Chorus.

The Cathedral will also host Lincoln Cathedral Carols by Candlelight. Enjoy a beautiful evening in the Cathedral nave and

celebrate the Christmas season with an evening of carols performed by Lincoln Cathedral’s choir. This enchanting performance will most certainly get you into the festive spirit with its mince pies and fruit punch.

And finally, as a pantomime alternative, don’t miss Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers on 4th January, a showing of the film on a big screen in the Nave of the Cathedral, and the 30-piece chamber orchestra will bring the soundtrack to life in spectacular fashion. www.lincolncathedral.com.

MORE FESTIVE FUN IN LINCOLN...

Thursday 12th December: Reindeer Parade (2pm-8pm) A parade of festive reindeer led by santa Claus and his sleigh from st Marks shopping Centre finishing up in Lincoln City square.

Sat 14th December – 22nd December: Lincoln Castle Christmas Emporium Eight evenings of Christmas delights within the medieval walls of Lincoln Castle for a festive celebration of arts, crafts, and food.

Sunday 15th December: Santa Fun Run Thousands of santas run and walk through Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter for the biggest festive fundraiser in Lincoln, from 11.30am-6pm).

www.visitlincoln.com

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FOOD & DRINK

The White Hart Hotel DINING ouT IN BosToN

A recommendation for autumn and winter dining this month as one of the county’s most successful hotel groups revises its menus for the season. Enjoy a pre-Christmas treat or celebrate the forthcoming festive season in one of Boston’s very best restaurants...

A chill in the air, a four stone sack of Maris Piper or Marfona on the sack barrow and ice still clinging to a savoy cabbage. Back in my youth I worked at my grandfather Reg ‘The veg’ Priestley’s greengrocers on the corner of Boston’s West street. Making deliveries to customers, running errands between the shop and our saturday market stall and serving customers on the till.

I’d love to say I was nostalgic for it but, unlike my wonderful grandparents, I was easily the worst greengrocer you could imagine. A puny kid who groaned under the weight of potato sacks and didn’t much care for early starts and a freezing Market Place in winter.

Walking around Boston though, there’s a faint whiff of regret that the town’s market has diminished from those days. Large supermarkets and online retailing have irreparably damaged our market towns and our food now comes from factories, not friendly faces.

“WE’D DESCRIBE THE WHITE HART UNASHAMEDLY AS THE BEST RESTAURANT IN THE CENTRE OF BOSTON, OFFERING GREAT QUALITY DINING...”

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Dean Fisher.

meet the CHEF SHELINA BURFORD, HEAD CHEF

The town of Boston is quite different today, but still in places you can witness local businesses thriving, proving that change isn’t all bad. Take the White Hart Hotel, for example. There is said to have been an inn on the spot since the 1700s, when The unicorn welcomed sea-port visitors to the town, who would come to Boston to trade in wool and fresh produce.

In 1804 the current building was created and given its current name. Independently owned until 1959 when it became one of the country’s first Berni Inns (chicken in a basket, anyone?), before changes in ownership and its decline prompted its closure in 2004.

Happily, like Boston itself, the hotel has endured change and the place was rescued by the wonderful Charity family, who have created here a super hotel and restaurant. >>

Food History: Shelina trained under the Coaching Inn Group’s Dave Simms before taking over the kitchen when Dave was promoted to the group’s Executive Chef.

Food Wisdom: The company has created its ‘eatery’ concept which is designed to offer high quality dishes during both daytime and evening service.

Recommended: Choose the bouillabaisse if you love seafood, followed by Shelina’s giant macaroon. n

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>> The Charity family were publicans until licensing law changes and a binge drinking culture stopped the Great British Pub being a thing to celebrate. Instead, they turned their attention to creating the first of what now stands at 15 coaching inns across the uK.

The family’s first hotel was in Holmfirth in West Yorkshire, but The White Hart was certainly one of their early acquisitions, with more recent hotels added to the group in Wales, Yorkshire and the Cotswolds.

Each hotel in the group has been beautifully refurbished, each given a restaurant good enough to trade on its own merits for nonresidents to enjoy, as well as hotel guests.

OPEN FOR FOOD Courtyard Bar: 10am to 9.30pm, seven days.

Riverside Restaurant: 6.30pm to 9pm, seven days.

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on the MENU OPTIONS FROM THE MAIN MENU OF THE WHITE HART, BOSTON Starters

Moules Marinière, creamy white wine & lemon sauce, crusty ciabatta £8.

Taste of Tomato, tomato terrine, tomato consommé, basil foam, tomato bread £7.

Prawn & Crayfish Raviolo, saffron consommé, garlic king prawn £8.

Main Courses

seafood Bouillabaisse, fennel & tomato broth, grilled sea bass, mussels, clams, prawns, sun dried tomato focaccia £17.

The restaurants all share a common nomenclature as ‘eateries’ - a philosophy which translates into a single menu with more formal à la carte dishes as well as grill options, pub-inspired classics plus grazing and sharing dishes.

We’d describe the White Hart unashamedly as the best restaurant in the centre of Boston, with ingredients sourced from local suppliers such as Boston sausage, just a couple of doors down from the hotel, as well as the town’s Willoughby Road Allotments, and the county’s Poacher cheese on the Lincolnshire Cheese Board.

Fresh ingredients are wisely used by head chef shelina Burford, who presents her dishes beautifully, with sauces, desserts and so on all made in house. Diners can enjoy the Courtyard Eatery, Riverside Restaurant and in the summer, customers can also dine al fresco overlooking the Haven.

There’s also a private dining room, The Glass Room, which seats 14 and is ideal for celebrations with family and friends, especially around the festive season.

offering afternoon tea and a lunchtime menu, the hotel’s trade is brisk throughout the day, with a patisserie cabinet to tempt those enjoying morning coffee, a bar with dedicated menus of cocktails and artisan gins.

This month the hotel is gearing up to begin hosting its festive dining at £23/head and party night packages at £31/head, and if you’d like santa Claus to bring you something a little nicer than a massive pile of washing up, you should certainly consider the hotel’s Christmas Day lunch option which, at £69/adult (£34.50 children), will afford you more time to enjoy the festive season and less time working away in the kitchen like one of santa’s poor downtrodden elves.

With 26 bedrooms now enjoying a refurbishment, a lovely environment and a great team, the White Hart really is the only place we’d dine in Boston’s town centre. The town itself may have changed but some things remain the same, and the determination of the hotel to provide a great experience for guests is still very much at the Hart of the place. n

seared Lamb Rump rosemary duchess potato, thyme roasted baby leeks, peas & baby onions, roast garlic purée £16.

Pan Fried Chicken Breast creamy pesto sauce, tagliatelle, wilted spinach, Parmesan shard £14.

Dessert

Giant Macaroon filled with passion fruit curd & white chocolate ganache, mango sorbet £6.

Peach Melba, vanilla & raspberry iced parfait, poached peach, almond tuile £6.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change.

n The White Hart Hotel, Eatery and Coffee House, High Street, Boston, PE21 8SH. Call 01205 311900 or see www.whitehartboston.com.

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Celebrate New Year’s Eve with us Tuesday 31st December Six Course Tasting Menu with a glass of Champagne.

Taking Bookings Now! 01522 524851 info@jewshouserestaurant.co.uk www.jewshouserestaurant.co.uk

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GOOD FOOD AWARDS 2019

Dine out for Free in 2020 Just by naming your favourite Lincolnshire restaurants

Above: Last year’s winners were the dedicated brigade at North Lincolnshire’s Winteringham Fields, who were awarded our Restaurant of the Year title.

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It’s once again time to celebrate the finest food and drink across Lincolnshire with our 2019 Good Food Awards.

We’re asking our readers to vote their favourite restaurants and we’ll enter everyone who does so into a free draw to win complimentary dining out at our partner restaurants throughout 2020...

Words: Rob Davis.

Lincolnshire is synonymous with good food, and that’s why, each year, we like to celebrate those who value local ingredients, using them with care and attention for the unabashed pleasure of local diners.

However we need your help.

Rather than naming the places we think represent the best restaurants and pubs across Lincolnshire, we’re asking for your votes to ensure that our awards are the most unbiased and comprehensive in the county.

What’s in it for you? Well, we’ve partnered with 11 great Lincolnshire restaurants, each of whom will provide a free meal for two in 2020, so you’ll enjoy quality dining and get to try some great dining rooms all through the year.

Last year we changed our categories to better reflect the diversity of dining in the area, so we’re asking for your six nominations in the following food award categories:

Best Steak

Mouthwatering, juicy, aged for 28 days and served with thick cut, triple cooked chips...

there’s no doubting the pleasure of a beautifully-cooked steak but where do you recommend for a silky sirloin or robust rib-eye? We’d love to know!

Best Fish Dish

Whether your preferred dish is delicately pan-fried scallops served with samphire or traditional fish and chips, tell us about your Friday night favourite.

Best Sunday Lunch

A great British institution, we want you to nominate your favourite restaurant for a really good sunday Lunch.

Best Dessert

Naturally everyone loves a pudding. Laden with fruit or rich in chocolate, the county’s chefs use dessert courses to show off their presentation skills and tempt us when we falsely protest about not being able to manage another bite.

Best Afternoon Tea

In recent years there has been somewhat of a resurgence in the popularity of afternoon tea. Tiers of joy, heaving with freshly cut sandwiches and homemade cakes, but tell us where to go for an afternoon treat. >> 65

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>> Restaurant of the Year And last but certainly not least is our 2020 Restaurant of the Year title. This is available to the pub, pub restaurant or fine dining establishment which you think is worthy of receiving the coveted title of Lincolnshire’s best restaurant.

By casting your vote in each of our six categories, you’ll be entered into our prize draw to win dining out at our 11 partner restaurants in 2020.

You can vote for whoever you wish, regardless of whether they’re an advertiser in Pride Magazine, which means our awards are the most objective and unbiased, with opinions sought from all over Lincolnshire.

We’ll announce the winners in our January edition and could be giving you a call to thank you for our votes and invite you to enjoy to free restaurant dining in 2020. n To vote, simply fill in the form opposite and post it to us, or vote online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire.

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Free Dining at our 11 Partner Restaurants...

1. The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa Enjoy quality dining in the former home of The Dambusters. Take in the elegance of this Edwardian hotel in the summer months and a walk around pretty Woodhall Spa.

2. The Thatched Cottage, Sutterton As pretty as it sounds! The Thatched Cottage’s à la carte and bar menus provide a romantic and comfortable environment in which to enjoy dishes created with local ingredients and presented in a stylish and modern way.

3. The Plough, North Kyme One of the most stylish dining rooms in the county, The Plough specialise in creating satisfying dishes, homemade by a truly talented team.

4. The White Hart, Lincoln Enjoy a cocktail or two before dining in the newly refurbished White Hart Hotel’s Grille restaurant and bar. A great way to round off a trip to uphill Lincoln.

5. Healing Manor, Grimsby Healing Manor Hotel is a beautiful 37 bedroom hotel with restaurant and pub.

Enjoy quality pub restaurant dining in The Pig & Whistle or a seasonal tasting menu in The Portman Restaurant.

6. The Red Lion, Bicker Newly reopened, The Red Lion is brimming with rustic charm, great ingredients and has a hugely talented team.

7. The Barley Mow, Friskney Diners at this wonderful traditional pub restaurant enjoy a warm by a blazing log fire.

Exceptional food, a rural atmosphere and of course, a coastal walk afterwards. Bliss!

8. The Cross Keys, Stow Enjoy great food and drink in this award winning pub and restaurant. Recently refurbished dining room and a reputation for fine food and pub classics.

9. Lawson’s Bistro, The Strait, Lincoln Chef Paul Field’s innovative cooking, paired with fine wines within a smart, relaxed and well hosted setting. Snug, simple with a monthly changing menu... perfect!

10. The Fuel Tank, Engine Yard, Belvoir Castle Enjoy exceptional dining in this quirky restaurant on Belvoir Castle’s new luxury shopping and lifestyle development.

11. The Bell at Coleby Paul Vidic, well known Chef Patron runs this thriving pub restaurant, offering a tranquil, welcoming and friendly space where food is served in comfort with passion. n

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ENTRY FORM

(Cut out and send to us at the address below)

Best Steak

Restaurant of the Year

Best Fish Dish

Where is the best place in the area you have visited for a classic steak dish?

Vote for your absolute favourite place to dine in and visit in Lincolnshire.

This can be shellfish, fish dishes or even your favourite fish and chips.

Best Sunday Lunch

Best Dessert

Best Afternoon Tea

A Yellowbellies favourite, but where do you enjoy Sunday Lunch the most?

Whether your tastes are chocolate or fruit-inclined, where’s best for pudding?

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

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

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

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

There are many places to enjoy tea and cake, but which one is the best?

Alternatively, you can vote in the Restaurant of the Year Competition on our website by visiting www.pridemagazines.co.uk/Lincolnshire/vote.

Closing Date: Friday 1st November 2019 send your entry to Lincolnshire Pride Restaurant of the Year Awards 2019, Pride Magazines, Elm Grange studios, East Heckington, Boston PE20 3QF.

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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Fresh, homemade, locally sourced delicious food in the heart of Lincolnshire...

Enjoy a taste of fine cuisine with our new gastro dining experience

SERVING FRESH LOCAL AND SEASONAL FOOD!

Available Available 12 12 noon noon –– 2pm 2pm and and 6pm 6pm –– 9pm 9pm Monday Monday to to Saturday.

Saturday.

Sunday Sunday Lunch Lunch served served 12noon 12noon –– 3pm.

3pm.

BOOKING BOOKING IN IN ADVANCE ADVANCE IS IS RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED DUE DUE TO TO HIGH HIGH DEMAND DEMAND

Church Lane, North Kyme Lincolnshire LN4 4DJ

CHRISTMAS MENU AVAILABLE, NOW TAKING BOOKINGS

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(01526) 861 400

www.theplough.restaurant

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CELEBRATE IN STYLE

See in the New Year with Old Friends: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Branston Hall Enjoy a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner for just £114.50/person; £229/couple.

New Year’s Eve Dinner, Bed & Breakfast £205.50/person; £379/couple.

Also available: New Year’s Day Lunch £27.95/adult; £14.95/child.

Branston Hall was originally built in 1885 as a stately home for Sir Leslie Alexander Melville, and today, it remains an unspoiled and totally serene stately home close to Lincoln.

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In the Kitchen

Satisfy your every indulgence with this dreamy chocolate cake recipe.

You will of course need to leave someone in charge of licking the bowl...

chocoLate torte with Raspberries & Cocoa Powder

Preparation time: 25 minutes. Cooking time: 50 minutes. Serves: Ten. 200g frozen raspberries • 150g golden caster sugar • 270g of Divine dark chocolate with raspberries, broken into chunks • 100g unsalted butter, softened • 3 medium free range eggs • 100g ground almonds • 50g self-raising flour • 50g cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting • 150ml soured cream • 1 tsp freeze-dried raspberries, to decorate

Preheat the oven to 180°c. Line a deep 20cm cake tin with baking parchment. heat the raspberries and 50g of the sugar in a small pan with one tablespoon of water until broken down, then simmer for six to seven minutes until jammy. Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water. Set this aside to cool too.

Beat the butter and remaining 100g sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, then the almonds, flour and cocoa, followed by the soured cream. Fold in the chocolate until everything is combined. Pour half the mixture into the prepared tin, then pour the raspberry compote into the middle, spreading it out but leaving a 2cm border clear around the edge. cover with the remaining chocolate mixture and bake for 35-40 minutes until cooked. cool completely in the tin. Dust with cocoa powder and sprinkle with freeze-dried raspberries before serving with crème fraîche, if liked. this deliciously indulgent cake can be made a day in advance, and is great served chilled.

Recipes & Dishes: www.waitrose.com.

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CHoCoLATE HoNEYCoMB CAKE Preparation time: 15 Mins. Chilling Time: 2hrs.

200g dark chocolate • 50g salted butter, diced • 4tbsp golden syrup • 150g shortbread, broken into small pieces • 100g whole almonds, roughly chopped • 45g honeycomb niblets • 150g soft dried apricots, diced

Break the chocolate into a small pan, then add the diced butter and golden syrup. Heat the ingredients very gently, stirring slowly from time to time, until the mixture is melted, smooth and glossy.

Place the shortbread in a large bowl and stir in the almonds, honeycomb and chopped apricots. Pour in the chocolate mixture and stir until evenly coated.

Tip the mixture into a 20cm loose-bottomed cake tin, patting down carefully to get it right into the corners. Chill for at least two hours until it’s set. slice into wedges to serve.

Mix things up by adding your favourite fruit, nuts or sweet treats. Try scattering pumpkin seeds over the top, dusting with freeze-dried raspberries, or stirring fudge chunks through before chilling.

DELICIous ToBLERoNE CHoCoLATE BRoWNIEs Preparation time: 15 Mins. Cooking Time 30 mins.

200g dark chocolate, broken into chunks • 200g unsalted butter • Three free range eggs • 250g golden caster sugar • 1tsp vanilla extract • 125g plain flour • 1⁄2tsp salt • 100g bar of Toblerone

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a 20cm square cake tin with baking parchment. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a small saucepan set over a low heat. stir to combine, then set aside to cool for five minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, gently whisk the eggs and sugar together. Whisk in the chocolate-butter mixture and vanilla, followed by the flour and salt, until just combined, then tip into the cake tin.

Break the Toblerone into chunks and arrange over the mixture. Bake for 30 minutes until set on top. Allow to cool in the tin before cutting into 12 pieces. Any variety of Toblerone - white, dark, milk or coconut - would work brilliantly in these brownies.

Recipes & Dishes: www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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THE THATCHED COTTAGE RESTAURANT & BAR CELEBRATE WITH US...

CARAVAN PARK TO BE OPENED MARCH 2020

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

£24.95 per person Monday 2nd December – Monday 23rd December £10 per head deposit

CHRISTMAS DAY FULLY BOOKED

BOXING DAY

1 course £24.95 / 2 course £27.95 / 3 course £29.95 £10 per head deposit

NEW YEARS EVE

£65 per person Live music from Ben Haynes includes 6 course meal & Surprise special guest Full payment upon booking

NEW YEARS DAY

1 course £24.95 / 2 courses £27.95 / 3 courses £29.95 £10 per head deposit

Tel: 01205 461006

POOLS LANE, SUTTERTON, BOSTON, LINCS PE20 2EZ enquiries@thethatchedcottagerestaurant.co.uk www.thethatchedcottagerestaurant.co.uk

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Enjoy a seasonal tipple: sloe, sloe, quick quick sloe...

Wine of the Month

Perfect for your hip flask, this month we recommend this traditional English winter warmer!

Burlesque Old Vine Zinfandel, California, USA £10.36 / 75cl / 14%

Here’s a winter warmer perfect for bonfire night, dog walks and a tipple in front of the fire. Wild hedgerow sloe berries and the ultimate forgotten fruit, mulberries, are gently macerated in British Gin and then oak aged in Rhône valley red wine casks. sweet notes of ripe blackcurrants, redcurrants, stone fruit and rich botanical complexity, balanced with a touch of tartness.

It’s gloriously warming, combining two native hedgerow fruits that we think are traditional and underutilised!

At home in the Lodi region of California, the Zinfandel grape thrives in the Mediterranean style climate and loam soils, producing what some say is the best Zinfandel in the world.

This robust red wine is packed with fruit flavours, including cherries and damson, and has just a hint of spice and smoke to finish. At 14.5% it’s a serious wine with lots to offer and is a perfect companion for those spicy sausage casseroles and hot dogs by the bonfire. n

n £30 / 50cl / 21.9%.

The Wine Cellar WHETHER YOU’RE OUT AND ABOUT ENJOYING FIREWORKS BURNING A PILE OF SHAGGY GARDEN PRUNINGS OR SITTING BY THE FIRESIDE, WE’VE PLENTY TO KEEP YOU WARM THIS MONTH BONFIRE NIGHT SPARKLERS: Sparkling wines make bonfire night go with a bang...

1. Somerset’s Smith & Evans Higher Plot Sparkling has rich aromas of lemon and spice.

It is 60% Chardonnay with the remainder split between Pinot Noir and Meunier. £28.99 RRP / 75cl / 11.5% ABV 2. Montresor Rosé Royal Pinot Noir Spumante is a vivacious Italian pink sparkler. A delicate pale pink colour.

Subtle and persistent bubbles. Rich toasty aromas of bread, mingle with flower blossom, ripe apples and cherries. £9.99 RRP / 75cl / 12% ABV 3. Hambledon Première Cuvée NV is explosive, with mouthwatering acidity and dried apricot and citrus.

Rich nose exuding Seville orange and brioche aromas. £42 RRP / 75cl / 12% ABV

Available from www.wriggly tinwine.co.uk.

Join as a King’s member to get this wine for just £8.28.

Beaujolais Nouveau Day

Thursday 21st November This month sees Beaujolais Nouveau Day taking place in the region - the world’s biggest wine festival! The 10,500 hectare region’s 4,000 vineyard owners produce 110,000,000 bottles a year, 32.9m Beaujolais; 24.7m Villages; 42.2m Crus.

Demand fell through the floor in 2001 when the wine became unfashionable - 1.1m cases were destroyed due to poor sales - but it’s since regained respect and rocketed in quality. Try this example from the region’s Gamay grapes - floral and mineral. n £20 / 750ml / 13%

n Our featured wines are available from the best local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary from those stated.

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Available at lunch with the exception of Sunday and from Monday to Friday evening. Not available on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day.

TO START

DESSERT

Butternut squash velouté, toasted pumpkin seeds, sauté mushrooms, truffle oil (v)

Trio of seasonal cheese, fruit cake, celery

*** Potted salmon, smoked salmon tartare, lemon jelly, compressed cucumber and water cress salad, sesame crostini *** Turkey ravioli, sage butter, pancetta crisp, chestnut shavings, cranberry gel *** Burrata, pomegranate, orange salad, toasted walnuts, focaccia crisp (v)

*** Black forest chounut Chocolate ganache, black cherry elements, mascarpone cream, cherry sorbet *** Panettone ice cream, brandy snap, mandarin sorbet *** Ginger panna cotta, roast spiced plums, amaretto crumb

2 COURSES

MAIN COURSE

£24.50

Roast breast of pheasant, parmesan, prosciutto and sage, Brussel sprouts with chestnuts, potato and prosciutto pave, parsnip puree

3 COURSES

*** Slow cooked blade of beef, crispy onions, burnt onion puree, roast potato fondant, sticky beef jus, roast carrots, salsa verde *** Sea bass, cauliflower and truffle puree, roast cauliflower, langoustine velouté, king prawn tempura *** Aubergine, sundried tomato tart, pine nut crust, warm red pepper tomato and chilli dressing, smoked aubergine puree, crispy fried courgettes (v)

£29.50 Why not add one of our drinks packages?

Drinks package – Christmas cocktail on arrival – 2 x 150ml glasses of wine £15.00pp Driver’s package – alcohol free cocktail on arrival – 2 soft drinks* £10.00pp *small Pepsi, diet Pepsi, lemonade, mineral water, apple juice, orange juice, lime and soda All of our dishes may contain allergens, please advise a member of staff of any allergies or intolerance

A £10.00 per person deposit is required and all tables require a pre-order no later than 7 days prior to your reservation. For tables of 10 and above payment is required in full no later than 2 days prior to your reservation.

Evening Dinner Menu

STARTERS

Our chef’s soup of the day with Griffin Bread £5.95 Carpaccio of Irnham Estate Venison, Liquorish and pickles £6.95 Confit Duck Leg, Roasted Vegetables, Sweet Potato, Port £7.25 Whipped Goats cheese, Tomato Gazpacho, Salt and Basil £6.25 Lemon and Ginger Tea cured salmon with Cucumber and Horseradish £6.95

MAINS

Glazed pork belly, Champ mash, Apple Chutney, Crackling and Sage £15.95 Duo of Estate Pheasant Breasts, Fondant potato, Cauliflower textures and Blackberries £15.95 10oz Sirloin steak, (cooked to your liking) Roast Vine tomatoes, field mushroom, Black Garlic Butter £19.95

Fresh catch of the day (please feel free to ask) Wild Mushroom and truffle Risotto, Crumbled feta and Herbs (vg) £14.95 Beetroot Falafel Salad, (Leilas salad) Pea shoots and mustard(vg) £ 13.95

DESSERTS

Cherry and Almond Tart, Cherry compote, Amaretto Ice Cream Chocolate ganache with pistachio & honeycomb, Blood Orange Sorbet 6.25 Orange and Cointreau Creme Brûlée, Butter Shortbread £5.95 Chefs homemade Ice Creams and sorbet (please ask for flavours) £6.25 Selection of local Fine cheeses, fresh fruit chutney and crackers £7.25

EXTRAS (£2.95)

Peppercorn Sauce. Mushroom Sauce.

Stilton Sauce. Vegetable bowl.

Onion rings. House salad. Pub Chips.

15 BULBY ROAD, IRNHAM, NR GRANTHAM NG33 4JG

01476 550201 | griffininn@irnhamhall.co.uk | www.thegriffinirnham.co.uk

Look forward to seeing you at The Griffin Inn Irnham

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HOMES & INTERIORS

IN LovE with

GREAT DEsIGN

Orchard House is certainly our pick of the crop this month, as we present this charming country home for your consideration. This four bedroom property in the leafy village of Belton is immaculately presented and features designer style throughout...

Words: Carissa Smith.

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Interior designer Tony Wilson and his partner Jayne moved back to the uK after completing successful business renovations and redesign projects over a period of 10 years in southern spain. The purchase of a four storey victorian townhouse located in North Leeds in need of renovation was to be the next project.

This enabled Tony to design the house to showcase his passion for 20th Century Art, Furniture and Glassware. Last october the couple moved to the picturesque village of Belton. Their unique home is a Grade II idyllic listed property and was originally the stables for Belton House.

Nestled away, almost hidden, in private grounds, it is accessed via electric estate style Above: The property’s garden room is timber-framed and opens out onto beautiful mature gardens.

Main: The sitting room with its multi-fuel fireplace.

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gates into a sweeping gravel driveway in the highly sought-after conservation village of Belton. The couple fell in love with this property and superb surroundings.

“We were amazed by the stunning tranquil location. The setting is absolutely beautiful, it’s breathtaking and many evenings have been spent relaxing in this special place, admiring the beautiful setting.”

The grounds are extensive with scattered patio areas, sun terraces, an orchard a large pond full of lillies and fish and a half size tennis court or croquet lawn.

A seating terrace is adjacent to a wrought iron arched tunnel covered by wisteria and honeysuckle. In addition, the garden has a summer house which benefits from heating and lighting could be an office get away, a shed, green house with cloches and

“The house has been designed and skilfully converted to a really high standard by interior designer Tony.”

vegetable garden, an oversized double garage with remote controlled doors and multiple parking areas.

The house and the garden are completely secluded with no visible properties in sight from the house. The two floored property is full of character and style.

The ground floor features garden room and dining room, family kitchen/breakfast room, large lounge, utility room, cloak room and boiler/ boot room.

An oak staircase leads to a mezzanine study/sitting room could be a further bed-

room. The large lounge features two sets of French style doors leading to the sun terrace.

The hall leads to the ground floor bedroom, with en-suite shower room, walk-in wardrobe and has direct access by French doors to the beautiful garden. A second staircase leads to two further double bedrooms both benefiting from en-suites.

The house has been intelligently designed and skilfully converted to an extremely high standard throughout, using natural materials such as solid oak floors and doors, original stone walls combined with modern techniques providing a stunning contemporary home.

The main kitchen area has a comprehensive range of oak shaker style base and floor to ceiling units with pull out larder unit and open wine rack. >> 81

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>> The solid oak kitchen units all have granite work tops. The kitchen has a Kuppersbusch combination oven and microwave plus another separate oven with warming drawer.

The kitchen also features a Quooker boiling water tap and a siemens American style fridge/freezer.

Tony and Jayne had plans to redesign further but due to personal reasons this hasn’t been able to happen, and the couple have decided to move.

However, as an interior designer, Tony simply couldn’t leave the house completely untouched. The house has been painted throughout in white to create a clean, cool scandi look for the entire property. A new four piece ensuite was installed in the main Above: The property’s kitchen features bespoke oak shaker cabinetry, plus Kuppersbusch appliances.

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upstairs bedroom completing the overall open plan aspect

Natural seagrass flooring has also been installed on the first floor and several internal doors have been replaced to allow light to flow through this property creating space and natural yet modern interior.

The property is also filled with contemporary artwork which the owners have collected over the years. A particularly special piece in the house is the Italian wall light design made in 1966 which Tony bought from Camden market over 30 years ago. The house also features a fabulous contemporary triptych artwork commissioned for him.

The property enjoys friendly neighbours in and around Belton House, which affords residents of the village free entry to the house and grounds with fantastic family fun all year round. This is a family home bound to strike just the right note with those looking for somewhere unique, comfortable, ideally located and beautifully presented. n

ORCHARD HOUSE, BELTON, GRANTHAM

location: Grantham four miles; Newark 16 miles; A1 four miles. style: Grade II listed country home in the village of Belton.

Bedrooms: Three, with three en suite bathrooms. receptions: Four, currently arranged as breakfast kitchen, sitting room and first floor sitting room/study area plus garden room. other features: Mature gardens and multi-fuel fires. guide price: ÂŁ599,000. find out more: Fine & Country, High street, Navenby, Lincoln, LN5 0DZ. Call 01522 397608 or see www.fineandcountry.com. n

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Archibald Thorburn It was almost inevitable that Archibald Thorburn (31st May 1860 – 7th October 1935) would become an artist of the highest repute; what with his father Robert Thorburn, the great portrait miniaturist and favourite of Queen Victoria aiding his study along with the tutorage from the esteemed Joseph Wolf, but few would have expected the rise and sustained success of this household name and artistic legend.

Born in Laaswade near Edinburgh, the young Thorburn was prompted and encouraged to paint. He quickly became a master of animal and especially bird subjects, mainly in watercolour and mainly showing the beauty of the surrounding area and the creatures themselves in an accurate textbook manner. He has become synonymous with natural works and was as well known throughout his life as he is today not just through the prolific amount he produced, but the attention to detail and mechanical representation of the subject.

The other obvious feature of his works which has created a legacy in today’s market was his association with both aiding the collaboration and illustrating books on nature in great number, culminating with his masterpiece of over 200 illustrations in the work Coloured Figures Of The Birds Of The British Islands.

The watercolour illustrated was sold at our record breaking Lincoln Art Sale in August for £9000. This result is testament to the quality of the work which amply shows the skill of the artist in producing a scientific representation of in this case the grouse in a wonderful naturalistic setting. Similarly to many of his works, the birds from eagles to peacocks, grouse and pheasants or other animals were drawn from sight, either in the leafy Hascombe where he moved in 1902 or in his yearly returns to Scotland specifically to paint in Kingussie or the surrounding areas.

Archibald Thorburn

Thorburn’s early life was often spent close to nature; if he wasn’t painting animals he was hunting them. Usually he could be found with the high society at shoots in Sandringham or the like and it was not until a highly remorseful event when he fatally wounded an animal whose painful demise led to him replacing the shotgun exclusively with the paint brush.

His rehabilitation was complete when he was made vice president of The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in 1927, he even designed their first Christmas card in 1899.

Archibald Thorburn is a true great and household name. He can me mentioned in the same breath as other famed animal painters such as Stubbs, Marshall, Munnings and Lodge and his works continued to be enjoyed as great investments and true representations of the natural world today. n Find Out More: Craig Bewick is an antiques specialist with Golding, Young & Mawer: The Bourne Auction Rooms, Spalding Road, Bourne PE10 9LE, 01778 422686; The Grantham Auction Rooms, Old Wharf Road, Grantham NG31 7AA, 01476 565118; The Stamford Valuation Office, The George Mews, Station Road, Stamford PE9 2LB, 01780 751666 or The Lincoln Auction Rooms, Thos Mawer House Station Road, North Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 3QY, 01522 524984. Alternatively, see www.goldingyoung.com.

Here for all your needs...

Free Auction Appraisals We offer free professional advice on items you wish to sell.

Free Home Visits Our valuers will help with house clearance advice or large collection dispersal.

Advisory Days We have regular days at our Bourne, Grantham, Lincoln, Louth & Stamford offices.

Do not hesitate & contact us now!

The hallmark of a professional auction house offering executor client advice & The Grantham Auction Rooms The Bourne Auction Rooms The Lincoln Auction Rooms & private services for valuation, auction sale &01522 property clearance 01476 565118 01778 422686 524984

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Interiors . Garden . Gorgeous Gifts at Looking for an Autumn update for your interiors?

Call in and visit our showrooms to be inspired.

Pop up coffee bar for refreshments in store.

KITCHENS • BEDROOMS • BOOT ROOMS • STUDIES INDIVIDUALLY MADE FREE STANDING FURNITURE

Call 07534 808903

The Showrooms, Great North Road, Markham Moor, Nr Retford DN22 0QU

richwood-cabinetmakers@hotmail.com

01636 822000 www.elizabethandstevens.com

BRING RICHWOOD INTO THE HEART OF YOUR HOME

Open from Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, 24/7 online.

Please call ahead if you are making a special journey.

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HARDWICK WINDOWS

HARDWICK For Quality Windows & Doors, have

(NoT HARD LuCK!) Autumn blusters in and temperatures drop, but if you’re feeling the draft, swap chills for lower bills, improve the look of your home and boost its value with high-performance windows and doors from Hardwick...

Words: Rob Davis.

Getting rid of drafts is a breeze, thanks to Hardwick Windows. With 40 years of experience in the industry, the firm is renowned not just for what it offers - quality doors and windows - but what the firm refuses to have anything to do with.

“Commission, pressure-selling and poor advice have traditionally blighted our whole industry,” says the firm’s Martin Bevan.

“The industry has become progressively more user-friendly over the years but still consumers are sceptical and that’s why it’s a matter of honour for us to look after our customers and provide a no-obligation, no pressure-selling service that makes customers happy with their experience from initial consultation to fitting and aftercare.”

“We’re not on commission, so the advice we offer is predicated on providing a great service and products that last, with no upselling.”

“Half of our clients live in modern properties, half in period properties, often in listed buildings or conservation areas. All of our windows and doors are bespoke, designed to suit your property, engineered to the last millimetre.”

“our products are made of Red Grandis hardwood and Accoya®, or in aluminium or wood alternative uPvC Flush Casement, Residence Nine, seven & Two, providing 88

up to A+ rated energy efficiency and the very best enhanced security features.

Meanwhile, our technical paint coatings are guaranteed for ten years and can match any RAL colour. We’ve a range of door furniture, and we can provide roof lights, bi-fold doors and orangeries too.”

“We have the very latest windows and doors chosen by us for your home. With unrivalled quality & specification, and all manufactured by craftsmen in the uK completely bespoke for you.” >>

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“our service covers all types of home, from architect designed new builds to old listed properties...

Above: Hardwick Windows has over 40 years of experience supplying and fitting the very latest windows and doors.

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>> “our exceptional service covers all types of properties from award winning, architect designed, modern builds, listed properties or even a two up two down terrace cottage, we have the products for you.”

“We enjoy giving impartial advice and helping to improve not only the thermal performance of your home but also, giving your home additional kerb appeal. We should also not forget the added value that the correct windows and doors can bring to any home, and with ultion locks fitted as standard, you’ll also be introducing an unprecedented degree of security to your home.”

“With nearly forty years’ experience in the fenestration industry, covering most aspects from renovation of a two hundred-year-old windmill to contemporary new houses.

As all of our products carry a minimum 10-year guarantee, you can also enjoy a sense of reassurance knowing that we stand by every one of our products.”

“A window and door company shouldn’t leave you feeling cold. That’s why we value customer service and deliver both products and an experience that are second to none, leaving you with a warm feeling in every sense!” n

Find Out More: No obligation.

No pressure-selling. No property too challenging. For a discussion about your property and your requirements, call 0115 855 6010, or see www.hardwickwindows.co.uk.

The company is based at Criftin Enterprise Centre, The Mophreys, Oxton Road, Nottingham NG14 6AT.

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

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

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

PJCabinetMakers

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HOMES & INTERIORS

five star appeal from luxxu A weekend away spent at a beautiful modern five star hotel can remind you to give your home a bit of an update.

But there is no reason why your home can’t be just as stunning with hotel-quality products from designers Luxxu...

Holiday blues? Why not turn your home into a place with five star appeal? That option is available now thanks to Luxxu.

Luxxu is certainly setting trends with timeless pieces and refined elegance. Lighting was the start of the brand’s luxury journey stating itself as classic with a modern twist.

Lighting is one of the main components in a home. It’s the defining element that can make the entire design come together, or not at all. Lighting can set the entire mood for a room, and change the entire perspective of its size.

alongside its range of high end luxury furniture made from desirable materials.

The brand uses only the best high-end materials to ensure high-quality luxury products that match the incredible designs develop by João Barros and his team of designers.

The lighting fixtures are made of brass and crystal glass with the best luxury finishing touches including the use of materials such as marbles and swarovski crystals.

The furniture is more diverse in materials including elements of brass, marbles, lacquered wood, walnut root veneer, glass, leather and velvets.

The circular gold plated brass levels brings elegance to any luxurious ambiance. The exclusive uneven shape of each crystal glass made by the craftsman’s exceptional know-how creates a unique pattern of lighting refraction in Luxxu’s products, creating impressive objects of desire. >>

Whether it’s meant to be task lighting or an object of beauty, lighting always has a functional side and a beautiful side, especially when dealing with statement lamps that use elements such as crystals and metals.

Luxxu has a variety of beautiful unique lamps, wall lighting, chandeliers, spotlights and every other kind of home décor light you can imagine Opposite: The Harpia light Suspension takes every environment back to ancient Greece. Also pictured is the Empire side table and Saboteur armchair. Above is the Babel chandelier and Gala wall torches.

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Above: The Tenor sideboard, Majestic chandelier and the Otto sofas.

Right: The Explosion chandelier, the Waterfall floor lamp, Charla dining chairs and Darian dining table.

Opposite Page, Top/Left: The Apotheosis console table and Tycho Small wall light.

Top/Right: The incredibly opulent Burj chandelier filling a sitting room.

Opposite Page, Bottom/Left: The McQueen chandelier and Crackle centrepiece table matching a gold and emerald colour scheme

Bottom/Right: Apotheosis side table matching a black and gold colour theme in a penthouse apartment. >>

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“Luxxu presents timeless pieces and refined elegance using the highest quality materials from marble, walnut root veneer and velvet to swarovski crystals, lacquered wood and leather in its furniture range...�

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Above: Luxxu’s only bedroom set includes this side table and the range is called Waltz.

The range uses walnut root veneer, black leather, black lacquered wood, brass and smoked mirror.

Below: Nubian console table, Beyond dining table, Empire and Nubian side tables, Otto armchair, Anguis sofa centre, Crown mirror, Waterfall wall light and Empire snooker suspension light.

For more information on this brand please visit www.luxxu.net.

Left: The Scala mirror, the Gala chandelier, the Draycott floor lamp and wall fitting, the Crackle centre table and Darian side table in addition to the Anguis sofas.

Above: Crackle centre table, Saboteur armchairs, Anguis sofa, Orbis mirror and the waterfall floor lamp.

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GARDEN HOUSES from M O R R I S S & S H A W G A R D E N H O U S E S LT D C O N S E R VAT O R I E S , ORANGERIES

&

ROOF LANTERNS BESPOKE AND L O C A L LY H A N D M A D E IN HARDWOOD

01529 300609 07832 344046 morrissandshawgardenhouses.com

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MAKING A WREATH

CIRCLE THE ouTER

Instead of buying a wreath for your home, it’s easy and rather fun to create your own. is month we speak to craftswoman Jade Hemmings, who enjoys raiding her autumn garden to create a beautiful and traditional decoration...

Images: Lincolnshire Pride’s Chief Photographer Dean Fisher.

At this time of year, it’s usual to hack back the foliage and put the garden to bed for the winter. Autumn is a time of bonfires and compost heaps, but before you start creating a pile of garden waste, you may want to set aside some of the spoils of autumn to create your own festive wreath.

Wreaths were originally created by Lutherans in the 16th Century from evergreen foliage and an endless circular design to symbolise eternal life and fertility.

Traditionally hung up on the first sunday of Advent. The term itself wreath actually derives from writhen, meaning to writhe or twist. More latterly though, the act of hanging a wreath has simply become a show of one-upmanship as householders engage in friendly(-ish) neighbourly competition to see who can hang the smarter, more imaginative decoration on their door.

You can, of course, search for the smartest wreath from the area’s garden centres, but for true bragging rights, you can make your own really easily.

The secret is to use a decent wire frame which you’ll find at an independent florist, craft shop or larger garden centre.

Two essential ingredients are floristry wire which is thick enough to hold your material

securely, whilst being flexible enough to be easy to work with and to cut. Right from the start it’s a good idea to decide where the top of your wreath will be. You might want to secure a piece of wire as a hanging loop at this stage.

Next, the bulk of your wreath should be stringy sphagnum moss - as opposed to the sheet moss you’ll find on the ground and on walls. Less crumbly and with good waterretaining properties, the thicker the better.

Work around the circumference of your wreath, trying to achieve a uniform width of moss all round. use wire to secure your moss and try to secure it as tightly as possible.>>

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F E S T I V E

>> Next, populate your wreath, initially using bulkier filler foliage. You can use pretty much any evergreen foliage from pine to holly, ivy and cupressus to spruce and eucalyptus.

Push your filler foliage into place, trying to use evenly-sized foliage and to disguise the direction you’re working in. smaller pieces will give a dense, less uniform look, but are more of a pain to wire in, so use secateurs to trim each piece to suit, working around the circumference systematically. once you’ve a thick, shaggy circle of foliage, use smarter looking elements as your ‘best’ foliage and decorations.

Whilst silver baubles, spray-painted cones or artificial flowers and foliage can yield a more contemporary look and colour scheme - a silver/white ‘frosted’ look, for example, you can achieve a more natural looking colour scheme with berried foliage like holly, hawthorne and crab apples.

W R E AT H

Traditionally, scented elements like sage, rosemary and dried citrus peels would be used to ward away evil spirits. Alongside seed heads, cinnamon quills and pine cones, anything is fair game as long as it can be wired in.

A good rule of thumb is to imagine your wreath as a clock face, and use the clock positions of noon, three, six and nine o’clock as key points in your design, then build your decoration up symmetrically from there. smaller decorations look good when clustered in threes, and bows of raffia or ribbons can help to add extra luxury to its overall look.

Keep your wreath moist and if you’ve dried elements like seed heads, a quick blast of hairspray can help to prevent them disintegrating. Enlist an extra pair of hands when hanging your wreath and secure to your door with floristry wire. n

TRADITIONALLY, SCENTED ELEMENTS LIKE SAGE, ROSEMARY AND DRIED CITRUS PEELS WOULD BE USED TO WARD AWAY EVIL SPIRITS...”

Below: Dry citrus fruits for an imaginative but still traditional and natural look. Rose hips and pine cones also make good decorations.

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n Our wreaths were made by artisan Jade Hemmings. You can commission her to create a beautiful bespoke wreath for you by calling 07711 679049, or by following Jade on her Instagram account, madebyjade1988.

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A DOUBLEDAY CHRISTMAS

A CouNTRYsIDE

CHRIsTMAs

lincolnshire’s doubleday group is your first stop for a countryside christmas... join the agricultural and groundcare specialists for their christmas event next month and find a gift for your little farmers!

Words: Rob Davis.

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Fun for little farmers this month, and a chance for mum and dad to tick off some Christmas shopping. Lincolnshire based John Deere specialist Doubleday is hosting their Christmas shopping Event on saturday 7th December to showcase a special range of festive toys, clothing and gifts.

Today anyone from domestic consumers with modest gardens or small holdings right up to the largest farming estates can take advantage of the Doubleday Groups expertise with machinery from John Deere, plus brands such as Kramer, väderstad, sulky Burel and Bomford Turner just to name a few!

Within all the Doubleday branches they also offer a wide range of adults and children’s clothing from Musto & John Deere to ensure your little farmers can have countryside fun too. Latest to Doubleday swineshead is the new clothing range and footwear by wellknown brand Le Chameau. Not forgetting the ever-popular wide range of farming themed toys at all the depots by well-known brands such as Bruder, Big Farm & siku from puzzles, games, the small matchbox tractors to the large battery powered & pedal ride-on tractors plus Tractor Ted merchandise, wellington boots and more.

DOUBLEDAY IS HOSTING A CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT ON SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER WITH A RANGE OF GIFTS AND FESTIVITIES...

A range of tractors will be in the workshop that children can sit in and have photographs taken. There will be lots of fun and games for the children including the very popular Pedal Tractor Race Track - whilst mum and dad can browse through a range of country clothing from Musto, John Deere and Le Chameau! It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit from santa who will arrive on his ‘Deere’ at 10am to hear the wish lists of all the little visitors.

The Christmas shopping Event include refreshments such as mince pies and mulled cider as well as treats for the children.

“It’s a great and rare opportunity for members of the public to visit a John Deere dealer and see what goes on behind the scenes at a tractor dealership.” Director of Doubleday, Zoe spencer explains.

“This event is a great opportunity for people interested in agricultural machinery to visit a dealership and take a peek behind the scenes!”

“We’re welcoming visitors to our swineshead dealership, but with branches located at Holbeach and Kings Lynn too, there is always a Doubleday branch nearby where a warm welcome always awaits you!” n Doubleday Group’s Christmas Shopping Event takes place on Saturday 7th December at Station Road, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE20 3PN. Call 01205 822440 or see www.doubledaygroup.co.uk for more details. The group also has branches in Holbeach and Kings Lynn too.

Above: Doubleday Swineshead branch will host its Christmas Shopping Event on Saturday 7th December.

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• Tree Surgery & Felling

• £10 Million Public Liability

• Tree Reports

• NPTC Qualified

• BS 3998

• BSC Honours Landscape Ecology

• BS 5837 • Stump Grinding • Site Clearance

• Professional Tree Inspection

• National Diploma in Forestry and • Council Approved Arboriculture Contractor • Hedge Cutting

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1

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Bolt from the Blue

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INTRODUCE BLUE INTO YOUR BORDERS 1. Common Violets, can be planted out this month along with other biennials sown earlier in the year.

2. Love in a Mist, otherwise known as Nigella, will overwinter and will also self-seed very successfully.

3. Delphiniums can be direct sown outdoors this month for a great display next summer.

4. Geraniums come in all colours, but we love this Johnson Blue variety.

5. Hyacinth and Amaryllis bulbs can be forced indoors now ready for a pretty Christmas display.

6. Crocus and daffodils should be planted outdoors now ready for spring colour.

7. Cornflowers and other hardy annuals can be sown now for larger plants in summer 2020.

8. Poppy anemone seeds should be sprinkled into border this month ready for late spring. n

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The seal L I N C O L N S H I R E

NAT U R E

of APPRovAL

One of the highlights in the calendar of a Lincolnshire nature lover is the sight of seals pupping at Donna Nook. is month, we give spotting these fascinating creatures our own seal of approval...

Words: Laurin Dempsey.

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WHETHER IT’s MINus DEGREEs (or it just feels like it), the Lincolnshire coast, specifically Donna Nook, still sees thousands of people flock to the coast wrapped up in their full winter attire to see hundreds of seals give birth to the most adorable seal pups.

2,066 grey seal pups were born last year at Donna Nook, the first being born on 22nd october 2018. Though most women could probably think of nothing worse than giving birth outside when icy winds are at their most bitter, and the nights are long, for female grey seals this is, in fact, the preferred time and when they are in their greatest shape in order to feed to their young after a summer spent catching fish.

As if giving birth in the cold wasn’t unpleasant enough, Donna Nook also happens to be an RAF military bombing range spanning around 800 hectares of land... hardly an ideal delivery ward.

Donna Nook covers more than 10km (6.25 miles) of coastline between Grainthorpe Haven in the north and saltfleet in the south. Every November and December, grey seals come to the Donna Nook coastline to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes; a wildlife spectacle attracting visitors from all over the uK as well as becoming a Lincolnshire tradition.

The viewing area is open from late october to December (depending on seal numbers) and is at the foot of the sand dunes which acts to reduce disturbance to the seals and ensures the safety of visitors.

Rachel shaw of Lincolnshire’s Wildlife Trust says that the site receives up to 5,000 visitors during the seal birthing season at Donna Nook. There’s a fine line between allowing the public access and ensuring that the mothers can give birth in peace, without the commotion wrought by visitors and their cameras.

there is a fence that divides the seals and their pups from visitors, however they often come up close to the fence so visitors can get a close look if they’re prepared to respect the animals at a sensitive time. seals are large predators and are very powerful. Even on land they can move surprisingly quickly - one of several reasons to approach them with caution. With teeth and powerful jaws similar to those of a dog, they can inflict a nasty bite – the pups, too.

Britain has about 40% of the world population of grey seals so sites like Donna Nook are becoming an increasingly important habitat. The grey seal can be distinguished from the common seal by its larger size and longer head with a sloping ‘Roman nose’ profile. Looking straight on, their nostrils are parallel, rather than v-shaped as in common seals.

Mainly grey in colour, the unique pattern of darker blotches and spots can be used to identify individuals. Grey seals spend most of their time out at sea where they feed on fish. They are easily spotted at the surface close to shore or ‘hauled out’ onto rocks and beaches to rest or digest their food.

With large colonies breeding on sandy shores on the east coast of England and on remote beaches and islands elsewhere.

Fluffy white pups are born between october and December, with November a peak month for births at Dona Nook.

When pups are born the mothers spin round to sniff them and get to know their smell. Female grey seals are dedicated parents, spending several weeks feeding their pups and losing up to 65kg of their own mass in the process.

The pups drink two and a half litres of milk every day and it’s so thick and rich pups can grow by as much as 30kg in two weeks. >>

The Trust prepares for this in late summer calling in volunteers and seal wardens.

When the seals arrive, someone is on hand 24/7 to speak to the visitors and to make sure there are no attempts to harm or cause stress to the seals. In order to help with this Left: Around 5,000 visitors pay a pilgrimage to Donna Nook each year to witness pupping at the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust managed site.

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L I N C O L N S H I R E

>> Pups remain on land until they have moulted their white coats and trebled their birth weight; at which point they head to the sea to hunt for themselves. The pups can spend up to two weeks all alone on the beach while they build up the courage (and the right fur) to take the plunge…

Life span of a grey seal is approximately 30-40 years with males typically reaching 300kg in weight and females up to 200kg.

Intriguingly, a seal can stay below the surface for eight minutes at a time, storing oxygen breathing in oxygen-rich air and dissolving it in their blood and in their muscles, as well as keeping it in their lungs.

If you are anything like us - typical Yellowbellies - you’ll hate being cold and could think of nothing worse than swimming in the sea throughout the middle of Winter. A seal meanwhile spends all day in the freezing ocean.

NAT U R E

The secret of its shiver-free success is a layer of fat or blubber under the skin that’s as thick as the length of your middle finger keeping the seal nice and warm in our cold seas.

The Lincolnshire coastline’s role as a habitat and maternity ward for grey seals led to the creation of skegness’s Natureland in 1965, a non-profit sanctuary and visitor attraction, and Mablethorpe’s seal sanctuary, created a little later in 1974.

Both rescue stranded seals and provide medical treatment until orphaned youngsters can be released back into the wild.

Donna Nook remains open to the public, and is one of fewer than 10 places around the uK when you can be guaranteed a glimpse of seals. seeing nature in all of its undisturbed beauty is an experience almost exclusive to Lincolnshire residents... one that definitely gets our seal of approval. n

“THE COUNTY’S TWO SEAL SANCTUARIES IN SKEGNESS AND MABLETHORPE WERE ESTABLISHED IN 1965 AND 1974 RESPECTIVELY...”

Below: Visitors to Donna Nook are asked to keep a respectful - and safe - distance from pupping seals.

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Winter Wildlife: Six Lincolnshire Highlights...

n Lapwing: Classified as a red conservation species. See these from late November to January in lowland habitats like marshes.

Black and white at a distance but with a green sheen up close.

n Roe Deer: The county’s most common species of native deer is around 90cm tall, weighs an average of 15kg, and lives in woodland and grassland. Males grow their antlers from November.

n Red Fox: The scourge of the county’s chicken sheds, the red fox weight about 6kg. Charlie is nimble on his feet, with vixens heard in winter making a spine-chilling scream when courtship occurs.

n Common Pheasant: Often seeing playing chicken with cars on the county’s fast A-roads, the common pheasant is an equally common sight; colourful, skittish, sleek and elegant.

n Barn Owl: One of the area’s most familiar species of owls, with a mighty wing span of nearly a metre, barn owls will be seen this month over farmland and grassland, hunting mice and voles.

n Avocet: Now classified amber in conservation classification, often seen in estuaries and marshland, identified with a black, upturned bill. 79cm wingspan and length of up to 50cm.

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WEDDINGS

BELIEvE IN FATE! Local couple, Steph and Michael were destined to be together... they were just waiting for the right moment to officially meet. This month’s bride tells us all about their special day!

Photographer: Charlotte Maddison Photography, 07368 346792, www.charlottemaddison-photography.co.uk

Lincoln couple Steph and Michael met each other nine years ago in the city through mutual friends.

Both believed this was the first time they had met however they soon found out they had actually met many times before in passing; a case of fate persisting in a belief that the couple were destined to be together!

WEDDING SUPPLIERS STEPH & MICHAEL

“Little did I know when I first met Michael that he was actually the cousin of my best friend, Emma,” says steph. “We then realised our paths had crossed many times during family occasions, which I had attended with Emma but we had never actually bumped into each other or met officially. ” “Michael was planning on proposing to me when we were visiting my family in Ireland, however during our visit I wasn’t feeling too well which put a stop to most of his plans.”

“He ended up proposing on a bike ride in Lincoln with our two sausage dogs, Ralphy and George. Michael asked if we could stop for a moment and then he got down on one knee and proposed. He told me he had been trying to do it all weekend!”

steph and Michael both have big families, and as such they knew they wanted a large wedding, so they decided to plan the wedding for two years time.

“We knew we wanted laid back and rustic with a vintage vibe. We had always envisaged a country-style wedding and for us the stately home of Doddington Hall was the perfect wedding venue.”

“We never looked around any other wedding venues, as we fell in love with the

light, airy and stunning Elizabethan exterior that the Coach House had to offer and with its beautiful secluded garden it was the perfect venue for us.”

“We had always planned on a traditional ceremony in our local church, All saint’s Church in Harby. All saint’s church is very special to us as it is where our niece was christened and hopefully one day where our children will be christened too. The location of our ceremony was perfect as Doddington Hall is only a stones throw away.” unlike many other brides steph was unsure about the style of wedding dress she wanted and sort help from her mum, sister, future mother and sister in law.

Wedding Photographer: Charlotte Maddison Photography charlottemaddison-photography.co.uk.

Wedding Venue: Doddington Hall, www.doddingtonhall.com Event Stylist & Hire: Save the Date Event Stylist www.savethedateeventstylist.com Wedding Dress: Belle and Bouquet, Wellingore www.belleandbouquet.co.uk Wedding Flowers: Coco In the Country www.cocointhecountry.co.uk

Wedding Cake: No82 Cake Studio, Lincoln www.no82cakestudio.co.uk. n

“I wanted a dress that was true to myself, but I remained open minded and I tried all sorts of styles of gowns on.”

“After trying on a handful of different designs at Belle and Bouquet in Wellingore I found my dream wedding dress, a style called Lexi by the designer Enzoani.”

“The dress was so beautiful with a flowing, soft tulle skirt, an alluring v-neckline complemented by thin spaghetti straps with sparking stones and all-over beaded corded and lace from Chantilly.”

“Michael’s dad, Dave, passed away unexpectedly the year before our wedding day. Planning a wedding is supposed to be joyful, wonderful and a dreamy time, but planning a wedding when someone so special is missing can be tough. We wanted to find heartfelt ways to honor Michael’s dad, on our special day.” >> 119

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- WEDDINGS -

“Walking down the aisle and sharing our first kiss, as we became husband and wife was unforgettable.” >> stephanie surprised her groom and his family with bridal bouquet photo charms and shared a poem which had been left by a reviewer: ‘For those you wish could be there, who are always in your heart, I give this little token, so they can play a tiny part.

“Andrew and Justine at Doddington Hall helped us to arrange the perfect ‘gin and cigar’ corner in memory of Michael’s dad, by supplying us with a locally sourced Lincoln Gin as well as one of Dave’s favourites. It was lovely as all our guests could raise a glass and have a tipple in memory of Michael’s dad!” After much thought the couple decided, instead of having the traditional favours they would make a donation to the stroke Association in memory of Michael’s Dad.

The most memorable part of the day according to steph was walking down the aisle and sharing their first kiss as husband and wife. “There was another funny moment in the church though, when our 18 month old niece shouted out ‘stephy’ during the ceremony as if she had only just noticed me stood up at the front... it was so cute and hilarious and lifted the tension!”

Michael’s family surprised steph and gifted the couple their perfect honeymoon. steph and Michael went travelling around Italy to Lake Garda, The Dolomites and venice, the perfect end to their Lincoln wedding, and the perfect way to begin married life together. n 120

Images: Charlotte Maddison 07368 346792, charlottemaddison-photography.co.uk.

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BRIDESMAIDS

Always the Bridesmaid ‘ALWAYS THE BRIDESMAID, NEVER THE BRIDE.’ IT’S OFTEN SEEN AS A NEGATIVE, BUT WITH THE LATEST 2020 COLLECTIONS FROM THE TOP BRANDS, IT’S A GREAT TIME TO BE A BEAUTIFUL BRIDESMAID...

Bridesmaid dresses usually evoke class and simplicity - so as to not upstage the bride and uniformity. While the former requirement is still true, the latter seems to have been entirely forgotten.

Providing bridesmaids with individuality, and giving them a choice in the style or colour of dress they wish to wear, allows them to be more involved in wedding planning and allows them to be much more comfortable on your wedding day.

Right: Multiwrap baby blue dresses by Eliza and Ethan.

Below: Jenny Yoo bridesmaid dresses in colours ‘Fig’ and ‘Whipped Apricot.’ We love the variety of styles; it’s become increasingly popular to mix and match bridesmaid dresses.

While some brides are opting to keep the colours the same with variations in style, other brides are changing everything about the bridesmaids’ gowns.

of course, uniform bridesmaid dresses are still popular, and it seems that neutral pastel tones are still the favoured theme, but it’s nice to see that this area of weddings is being shaken up. often, High street fashion trends are being incorporated into bridesmaid fashion like pleated skirts, shorter dresses and velvet or alternative textures. Multiwrap dresses are still very much in fashion for 2020 too. n

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Top/Left: Hayley Paige bridesmaids in navy blue.

Top: Kelsey Rose dresses in buff.

Left: Jenny Yoo’s Valentina collection including the Valentina wedding dress too.

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LoYALTY 60 YEARs oF

One of the city’s most long-standing retailers celebrates 60 years of trading this month proving that it’s a really good family jeweller rather than the diamonds they sell - which are a girl’s best friend!

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Dean Fisher.

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Back in 1959, Macmillan was Prime Minister, Ian Fleming’s Goldfinger was published, and Blue Peter made its debut, stickyback plastic and all. Closer to home, jeweller Eric Bird arrived in Lincoln, and the jeweller has been a favourite on the city’s st Mary’s street since April 1977.

“The objective of our business is to provide a high quality product and reliable service for our customers. We enjoy choosing our products as much as our customers enjoy wearing them, so the selection of our ranges is really important to us.”

“Forming a relationship with our clients allows us to go above and beyond for them, providing watch repairs, battery replacements, jewellery repairs, pearl and bead threading, and services like hand-engraving.”

60 years is a long time and much has changed in the industry, not least with the advent of smart phones and computers making watches less of a practical necessity and more of a luxury piece of jewellery.

But one thing that hasn’t changed is the desire of Eric A Bird’s current owner steve Thompson to provide a loyal, reliable service for his customers and their families.

“Having a company you can trust with your jewellery, having someone who’s always there to offer advice is, I think, what makes independent retailers different from the internet. I think people are realising that the difference in price between a local retailer is negligible, but the difference in service is marked.”

steve left school and worked for Eric and Giovanna Bird until 1994 when Eric retired and steve took over the business with wife Maria, pictured top/right.

“We’ve had so many really lovely customers over the years, so to celebrate our 60th anniversary we wanted to thank them with a 40% discount on our diamond jewellery, a promotion which we’re running from 23rd to 30th November.”

Working for Eric from July 1973, after which the business moved from its original premises on Lower High street to Cornhill, steve is delighted to see that the area now undergoing its own reinvention. In 1977 the firm’s current premises on st Mary’s street became available and Eric relocated the business, providing more space to display a range of beautiful jewellery, gifts and timepieces.

Today, the couple welcome children and grandchildren of existing customers. steve’s loyalty towards his old boss, Eric’s loyalty towards his right hand man and the company’s loyalty to their customers is a consistent theme that runs through the business and a reason for the company’s success even in the changing landscape of retail.

“There are many online companies who can retail jewellery, and since the 1970s there have been larger multinational jewellers on the city’s High street, but they’re just that; retailers.”

“our in-house jeweller Tony Hurt provides professional repairs, resizing and cleaning.

In house we’ve decades of expertise in advising customers and all of the contacts we need to offer our customers beautiful artisan jewellery, not just mass produced retail brands.”

“There are some beautiful designs in the shop, so it’s definitely worth a look if you’re seeking a really special Christmas gift for a loved one.” n

a girl’s Best friend

Beautiful diamonds from Lincoln’s Eric A Bird Below: 18k yellow & white gold ring 1.20ct approx., £2,430. Sale Price: £1,458.

Left: 18k white gold Constellation ring, 0.58ct £1,449. Sale Price: £869.

Above: 18k white gold cluster pendant, seven brilliant cut diamonds surrounded by a halo of sixteen brilliant cut white diamonds, total 1.95ct, £3,500 Sale Price: £2,100.

n Celebrating its 60th anniversary this month, Eric A Bird is based on St Marys Street, Lincoln LN5 7EQ. Call 01522 520977 or see www.jewellerylincoln.co.uk for the firm’s 40% diamond discount in November.

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WRAP UP

WARM FASHION THE COVER STORY

is month’s Cover Story: country clothing that’s as warm and practical as it is stylish.

Available at and modelled on Lincoln’s Doddington Hall Estate, our exclusive fashion shoot has been captured by Lincolnshire Pride photographer Dean Fisher...

Images: Lincolnshire Pride’s Chief Photographer Dean Fisher.

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previous page (left): Dubarry Bracken tweed jacket in sorrel £199; Barbour Essential slim jean £79.95; pheasant scarf in purple

by Peony £15. Jack Murphy Boston hat in olive £39.99, Doddington pheasant feather hat pin £25, Dubarry Cormack polo berry £79, Dubarry Eyrecourt handbag black/brown £149, Aigle Deer gloves brown £65, Dubarry Longford boots black/brown £379. previous page (right): Dubarry Hazelwood poncho in sorrel £199; tweed skirt £169. Le Chameau Chasseur Neo £265, Jack Murphy Boston hat burgundy £39.99, Aigle Deer gloves brown £65, Dubarry Cormack Polo pale blue £79. is page: Mat de Misaine Coventry Shirt in lichen £115, Pacifico trousers £87.50, Barbour Beadnall jacket £199.

Dubarry Schull hat russet £39, Dubarry Buckley gloves russet £39.

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is page: Norfolk shirt,

by Schöffel Ptarmigan print, £69.95; Cheltenham cords in plum by Schöffel £99.95; Aigle Saguvi jacket in khaki £200; Mat de Misaine scarf in lichen £42.50. Jack Murphy Boston hat in olive £39.99, Doddington pheasant feather hat pin £25, British Bag Co., Cartridge Flask £19.95.

All of our featured fashions are available Doddington Country Clothing on the Doddington Hall Estate.

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is page: Dubarry Heaney jacket in navy £199; Gant turtleneck jumper in red £155; Wale cord skirt in evening blue £95; Dubarry Garbally bag in poppy £179 and 100 Stars Robe scarf £27.99

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is page: Schöffel Cheltenham jeans in navy, £79.95; Schöffel polo neck in mink £139.95; Schöffel Mayfair jacket in navy £379.95. Aigle Deer gloves in brown £65, Dubarry Garbally bag navy £179, Dubarry Tullynally scarf £65.

All of our featured fashions are available Doddington Country Clothing on the Doddington Hall Estate.

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is page: Dubarry Spindle waistcoat in sorrel, £199; Barbour Essential slim jeans £79.95. Jack Murphy Boston hat in olive £39.99, Doddington Pheasant Feather hat pin £25, Reeves and Reeves Necklace Star Silver £47.50, Dubarry Snowdrop shirt £69, Dubarry Longford boots in black/brown £379.

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is page: Aigle Saguvi jacket in khaki £200, Mat de Misaine Turbigo polo neck in grey chenille £105. Schöffel Cheltenham jeans, navy £79.95, Powder Maggie scarf moss mix £29.95, Powder Betty gloves, tangerine £22, Powder Karina hat in cream £27.

All of our featured fashions are available Doddington Country Clothing on the Doddington Hall Estate.

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is page: schöffel lilymere jacket in navy tweed £399.95; schöffel ptarmigan shirt, £69.95; Schöffel Cheltenham cords in navy £99.95.

Doddington Pheasant Feather brooch £25, Aigle Deer gloves in brown £65, Dubarry Dingle bag, black/brown £179, Reeves and Reeves Necklace Star Silver £47.50.

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- FASHION -

Top/Left: Harkila/Seeland Woodcock jacket £179.99; Noble v-neck jumper £54.99; Seeland Collin shirt £39.99; Soprano tie, pheasant, in gold £25.

Top/Right: Aigle Cortal three in one jacket £235; Redul gilet £65; Soprano green partridge tie £25; Schöffel Banbury shirt £69.95.

Bottom/Left: Barbour Hereford jacket in olive £199; Gant grey crew neck £95; Gant flannel shirt indigo £90; Gant cords in khaki £120.

Bottom/Right: Schöffel Ptarmigan Buckingham tweed jacket £649.95; plus twos £299.99; Red tie £25; Alan Johnson Deer Antler walking stick in hazel £67.50; Schöffel Tweed Cap Buckingham £49.95; Schöffel Cambridge shirt £69.95; Schöffel Oakham gilet £139.99, Le Chameau Chasseur Neo £265. n

All of our featured fashions are available Doddington Country Clothing on the Doddington Hall Estate.

Stockists of Schöffel, Barbour, Dubarry, Ariat, Seeland, Aigle, Gant, Mat de Misaine, One Hundred Stars, Powder and more. Visit Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire, LN6 4RU, call 01522 812515 or see www.doddingtonhall.com.

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SINCE 1856 34-38 WIDE BARGATE BOSTON, LINCS PE21 6RX

Shop all your favourite designers that you know and love at Coneys Lincoln and Boston. We offer a large selection of premium branded clothing, shoes and accessories together with an unbeatable service.

www.coneysdesignerwear.co.uk Facebook.com/coneyslincoln 225 High Street, Lincoln LN2 1HW T. 01522 511 187 Open: Mon to Sat 9am – 5:30pm, Sun 11am – 4pm

Facebook.com/coneysboston 34/36 Wide Bargate, Boston PE21 6RX T. 01205 137 311 355 Open: Mon to Sat 10am – 5:30pm, Sun 11am – 4pm

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AUTUMN BEAUTY

vert De Terre

THIS MONTH WE’RE TAKING INSPIRATION FROM MOTHER NATURE AND SPECIFICALLY FROM THE MOSSY BEAUTY OF AUTUMN’S VERT DE TERRE HUE

1. Brand new from Floris, with the scent of the forest...

Founded in 1730, Floris is one of the country’s finest fragrance houses, supplying perfumes and aftershaves to HM The Queen and historically to Churchill. New from the company is the unisex vert Fougere, with its green mossy foundations, top notes of bergamot and patchouli base notes. £120 / 100ml EDP.

2. verdant Eye Palette

Rebel is Charlotte Tilbury’s quartet of rose-gold, olive green & peacock blues for dramatic, unique eye makeup! Highly pigmented shades mean you get long-lasting colour that is buildable throughout the day, with a timeless look perfect for this season’s festive parties. £40.

3. Botanical Power

Aveda’s Botanical Kinetics improves daily facial cleansing with a rich creme that removes surface dirt and impurities.

Extra-mild on skin with plant-derived oils to leave skin soft and smooth. £19 / 150ml.

4. Nail Alchemy

Chanel’s Le vernis provides a very smooth streak-free shimmer and applies beautifully. It's a mossy olive shimmer with a hint of gold and khaki. Long-wearing, extra-fine and ultra-shiny, each coat for an even, lacquered result. £22/13ml.

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5. A show of Hands for Winter

Skog is Norwegian and swedish for ‘forest,’ and the rugged terrain of those countries has been a good proving ground for this 96% natural, Paraben-free aloe and shea butter based hand cream.

Ideal for irritated skin, it’s apricot and almond scented, with aloe vera.

Anti-inflammatory, it’s great for those who work and play outdoors. £20.00/75ml.

6. A fresh woodland scent from Jo Malone...

Sweet, but not overwhelming is the report we’ve received of what to expect when you light Jo Malone’s latest candle, with its while delicate lily of the valley and decadent narcissus.

Reminiscent of the pastel gentility of Georgian London, according to the marketing blurb... sparkling cassis and green ivy open this captivating, ethereal fragrance, £48/ 200g.

n All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, please note that prices stated are RRP and may vary according to retailer.

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BESPOKE CARE PACKAGE FOR BOTH WOMEN AND MEN: • LJM Homecare hold their standards high • Personalised service, no two care packages are the same • Respect, dignity and promoting independence • Both short and long term care available

Purveyors of Luxury Eyewear Since 1979

• Services include: Palliative Care, Day/ Night Sitting, Rehabilitation Support, General Domestic Help and Escorted Trips out • All supports workers are DBS checked Ørgreen glasses - range of colours in stock now.

43/44 Wrawby Street, Brigg, North Lincolnshire DN20 8BS Tel: 01652 653595. Web: www.obriensopticians.co.uk

Call for an appointment or pop in to view our latest designer eyewear.

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Miscellany

Welcome to Miscellany. This feature in Pride includes snippets of information you may not have known, book reviews, county history and interesting locals. Enjoy!

Edited by: Laurin Dempsey.

e Big Story of a Small Town All you ever wanted to know about Boston, in a new book by the town’s Richard Austin!

The entire history of Boston, from salt-making during the Roman occupation to the current flood barrier construction - is laid out in a new book. Boston: The Small Town with a Big Story is the brainchild of Boston Borough Councillor Richard Austin.

He felt there had never been a book published which dealt with the entirety of the town’s history. Richard has assembled a team of writers to tackle 55 topics covering almost 2,000 years of history up to the modern day.

“I didn’t want it to be an academic tome, but a book which anyone could access, dip in and out of and learn more about Boston beyond what is readily known.”

“Boston has a rich heritage, but only a small bit is understood by the majority of people. This book is an easy read, with plenty of illustrations and it’s my hope that it will whet the appetite for people to want to find out more.” n The book was launched at a full-day sell-out conference and is now available at a special introductory price of £10 from Shodfriars’ Cafe, Blackfriars Arts Centre, Boston Guildhall and Fydell House.

Edith Smith: Our First Police Officer, November 1914: Grantham gave us the first female Police officer, Mrs Edith smith, who was appointed in November 1914.

Known as the Women Police volunteers, her service was staffed by volunteers, but Edith

was the first warranted police officer in the uK - i.e.: the first with the full power of arrest. until January 1919, smith was also the matron nurse at Lindis Nursing Home, Dudley Road in Grantham where she worked

seven days a week. Edith smith died in 1924 aged 44 of an accidental overdose, five years after leaving the force. Her life is commemorated in Grantham Museum. www.granthammuseum.org.uk.

GEoRGE BooLE was born on 2nd November 1815 on Silver Street, Lincoln. Considered by many as the founding father of computing, George Boole was a brilliant mathematician. He is noted for his work on the area of logic known as Boolean Algebra. n

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MISCELLANY

IT’S ALL GONE SWIMMINGLy Having met Grimsby’s Brenda Fisher in this edition, we’re unveiling our favourite swimming facts...

1. Free divers can hold their breath for more than 10 minutes.

2. There is enough water in Olympic-sized pools to take 9,400 baths.

3. Swimmers can flex their toes to the ground.

4. The odds of swimming in the Olympics are very slim.

5. The oldest stroke is the breaststroke.

6. Swimmers sweat in the pool.

7. Swimmers use every major muscle in their bodies.

8. The youngest international competitive swimmer was 10 years old.

9. The first swimming goggles were made from tortoise shells.

10. Women weren’t allowed to compete in Olympic swimming until 1912. n

GOING WITH A BANG Lincolnshire’s Firework Championships Belvoir Castle is home to the Firework Championships, a friendly competition between professional display companies to create the most dramatic and impressive display. This years event was held in August with Pyrotex, Starlight, and Flashpoint the three finalists in the competition.

A fuse - electronic for professional displays ignites cordite (gunpowder) providing the propulsion into the sky. A second chamber of gunpowder ignites once in the sky, with different colours for fireworks achieved by coating iron filings with different colour metal salts. The shape of the filings’ arrangement around the main charge determine the shape of the dispersal pattern.

Fancy seeing stars this month? Head to the Lincolnshire Showground on 26th October for a family firework display with family entertainment and live music, hosted by Lincs FM’s Rob Hammond.

Alternatively, Saturday 2nd November sees Lincolnshire’s Aviation Heritage hosts its Fireworks Display and night run with a taxy run of its Avro Lancaster NX611.

And finally, Batemans Visitor Centre in Wainfleet is hosting its fireworks night and bonfire Burgh le Marsh with a laser show from 7pm and fireworks from on Tuesday 5th November from 7.30pm... as well as local ale from Lincolnshire’s most famous brewery, to really make the evening go with a bang. n

FLANDERS FIELDS Prior to Remembrance Sunday, this month, we thought a reminder might be in order of the World War I poem whose opening lines refer to the many poppies that were the first flowers to grow in the churned-up earth of soldiers’ graves in the Flanders region of Belgium.

Shortly after losing a friend in Ypres, a Canadian doctor, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was moved by the sight of these poppies and that inspiration led him to write the now famous poem In Flanders Fields.

He was inspired to write it on May 3, 1915, after presiding over the funeral of friend and fellow soldier Lieutenant Alexis Helmer, who died in the Second Battle of Ypres.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow, In Flanders fields.

JOHN MCCRAE 3RD MAY 1915

THE BEST DOG BREEDS FOR A DAy OF SHOOTING We’ve already met Grantham’s Rowland Watson Gunmakers this month. With the right gun, though, you’ll also need a gundog. According to the UK Kennel Club, the five bed shooting dog breeds are: 1. springer spaniel: 10,152; 2. labrador retriever: 36,526; 3. english setter: 290; 4. pointer 636; 5. chesapeake Bay retriever: 97.

Numbers refer to the number of English Kennel Club Registrations for each breed in 2018.

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Christmas is Coming... (...and so are your ‘year end’ accounts!)

Barnstone here’s looking forward to his office party, a glass of fizz and the chance to put his paws up over the festive season, safe in the knowledge that his year end accounts are all sorted... but can you say the same?

We all deserve a festive season free of stress, so don’t spoil your Christmas worrying about your end of year accounts.

Let us help with our accountancy, tax, business advice, payroll and bookkeeping services for any size business...

We’re human (well, apart from Barnstone), so we promise to talk to you like a human; you know, in a jargon-free, no waffle way! We’re available during evenings and weekends too - even over the festive season and promise to respond to our client’s queries within 24 hours...!

We’re the approachable accountants that make your life easier... so give us a call!

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A Better Resolution for Family Matters

Neil Remnant, head of family law at Grantham-based JMP Solicitors, specialises in reaching a successful resolution for clients to take the stress away from festive frustrations...

It’s a most wonderful time of the year, but one

that can elicit a range of emotions for those with challenging family circumstances - from child access issues to faltering relationships.

The festive season with its financial stresses and workload can sometimes overwhelm families.

But for a swift resolution and a fresh approach to matters of family law, a team of legal professionals who treat clients like people and not cases, can transform lives for the better.

Head of family law at Grantham-based JMP Solicitors, Neil Remnant, has vast experience in the field, having been in practice since 1975.

He said: “Christmas can sometimes be a flash point for couples who have separated, as each parent naturally wants to see their children open presents, watch Christmas movies, and make memories.

“Successful child contact arrangements are achievable through communicating, compromising and advance planning.

Co-parenting is the secret to a successful, stress-free Christmas, and because having a child binds you to your former partner, if communication is fraught, mediation can help you to reach a compromise with the help of an objective professional.

“The festive season can also put pressure on a marriage or the relationship of cohabiting couples. In such circumstances, it’s wise to seek advice about the impact of any relationship breakdown, especially if it concerns the impact on your children or on a business that you share together.

“Talking with a family law specialist will help you to achieve an honest, dispassionate and fair perspective and can often lead couples to mediation or collaborative law rather than more adversarial outcomes.

“Our approach at JMP is to provide a

resolutions-oriented approach to all matters of family law and with 45 years of experience, I can say that it’s so important to clients whose life is in turmoil anyway, that they deal with a nice firm.

“As part of our services, we offer free 30-minute consultations, as we believe it is right that a client can ask questions and find out where they stand legally.

“As an industry, we are always working for the benefit of clients, in this case to provide clarity and a successful outcome for both parties during a difficult time.” n Established in 2000, JMP Solicitors is a Grantham-based multi-service law firm providing services for a diverse range of local and national clients from individuals, to companies and organisations.

JMP Solicitors is based on Autumn Park Business Centre, Dysart Road, Grantham NG31 7EU. Call 01476 565295 or see www.jmp-solicitors.com.

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Take out one of our Christmas

Gift Subscriptions It’s the perfect gift idea for your loved one You can choose to have a six month subscription for £18 or a twelve month subscription for £36 We’ll deliver Pride free of charge to your friend or loved one’s doorstep - every month!

They’ll never miss a single issue!

01529 469977 SIMPLY CALL US ON

Alternatively, visit our website at www.pridemagazines.co.uk 145

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THIS MONTH: OUR EXCLUSIVE IMAGES FROM THE 2019 BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS

To feature your event call 01529 469977. Our magazines are free to read online, so you can share the magazine with your friends. Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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Lifestyle & Leisure at the

Burghley Horse Trials Congratulations to Pippa Funnell, who achieved her first win at the 2019 Burghley Horse Trials since 2003. is year’s event was dominated by the Brits with Pippa, her best friend Piggy French, and oliver Townend all chasing the top prize. Dominated by British competitors, the competition was more exciting than ever especially in respect of the challenging cross-country course. is year’s competition was also marked by an emotional tribute to retiring five-time Burghley winner Mark Todd and with news that Capt., Mark Phillips’ course will be the last he’ll design before handing over to Derek di Grazia. e event also saw title sponsor Land Rover displaying its new Defender model ahead of an official reveal.

160,000 people attended the event, which contributes around £20m to Stamford’s economy each year. n

words: Rob Davis. photos: Dean Fisher.

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Boodles Jewellers at the

Burghley Horse Trials Hosting Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials’ annual Business Brunch this year, the local business community was delighted to welcome James Amos of family jeweller Boodles to the President’s Marquee.

James joined Boodles nearly 15 years ago, having managed its company’s Harrods concession. He has been established as the brand’s Marketing Director for the last decade focusing on the strategic decisions behind the growth of the business. e event was an opportunity to enjoy James’ keynote speech and to enjoy a pre-Horse Trials brunch.

Attendees were especially impressed with the presence of a particularly large and valuable diamond which, regrettably, security protocols prevented our photographer from picturing... but take it from us, this diamond would certainly be a girl’s best friend! n

words: Rob Davis. photos: Dean Fisher.

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Colin young at Elms Farm Cottages Around 100 ladies and gentlemen enjoyed a most wonderful afternoon tea at Boston’s Elms Farm Cottages, helping to raise funds and awareness for the Butterfly Hospice Trust in Boston.

Star of the show was auctioneer Colin young of Grantham, Bourne and Lincoln based Golding young.

Experienced auctioneer Colin spoke about his role in a modern, fast-paced auction house.

“Since 1864 our family owned business has offered expertise in auctioneering and valuation for an ever expanding product range from traditional Antiques, Fine Art, Jewellery, Gold & Silver to virtually every field that excites collectors in today’s market. We also handle sales of machinery and a diverse range of business assets.” n

words: Rob Davis. photos: Dean Fisher.

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MOTORS

HoRsE

PoWER Ferrari F8 Tributo is a celebration of excellence... a mid-rear-engined two-seater berlinetta that pays homage to the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history!

Words: Rob Davis.

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FEW MOTORING MARqUES are as evocative or as exciting as Ferrari; the prancing horse is enough to send any motor car enthusiast into a spin, and what the company can do with a V8 has to be experienced to be believed. e firm’s latest mode, the F8 Tributo is a love-letter to the eight cylinder engine, the most powerful V8 Ferrari in the firm’s history, setting the market benchmark for performance, driving pleasure and ease of handling.

It makes the exhilarating performance of the best eight-cylinder in the world accessible to all drivers, with unprecedented handling and superior ride comfort.

Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the F8 Tributo is essentially a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasise Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency. In fact, the F8 Tributo is the most aerodynamically efficient series-production mid-rear-engined berlinetta ever designed. e F8 Tributo replaces the 488 GTB and, in the range, is the model with the highest performance matched by the greatest driver involvement. ere are significant improvements across the board aimed at providing even better control on the limit along with greater on-board comfort.

e V8’s technical specifications are truly exceptional, placing it at the very top of its segment. e F8 Tributo unleashes 720 cv at 8,000 rpm and also has an impressive specific power output of 185 cv/l. Its maximum torque is now higher too at all engine speeds, peaking at 770 Nm at 3,250 rpm.

Today, Ferrari V8s sport solutions that are masterpieces of engineering and this engine in particular further enhances the typical traits of all Maranello engines with smoothly progressive, limitless acceleration and zero turbo lag combined with a unique soundtrack courtesy, in part, of a new exhaust system. e new car offers drivers pure emotions.

Instantaneously accessible power is matched by exceptional handling thanks to advanced vehicle dynamics solutions. ese include a new version of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE+) which can be activated in the manettino’s Race position for the first time, a move designed to make performance on the limit easier to reach and control for an even greater number of drivers. e F8 Tributo is also more aerodynamic efficient than the 488 GTB thanks to an increase in downforce which does not impact on its drag coefficient. is means that drivers can exploit to the fullest the exceptional performance the car unleashes. >> 155

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Performance Without Compromise: High end GT sports cars...

Mercedes-AMG GT C £130,880: Inspired by the race track, designed for everyday driving – the Mercedes- AMG GT stirs excitement from the iconic radiator grille to the electrically extending rear aerofoil. Available as a coupé or roadster, this range topping C model uses a 4.0V8 to achieve 60mph in 3.7 seconds, and 196mph flat out on race days. Avoid the loutish yellow paint colour, and opt instead for a tasteful pretty blue or white, as pictured here. Combine with cream nappa leather and you’ve a comfortable GT with plenty of standard equipment and the ability to dispatch in-town errands as well as track days. n

McLAREN GT: SUPERLIGHT GRAND TOURING £163,000: At the end of the year, the first deliveries of McLaren’s GT Superlight are due to take place. Excited owners are anticipating the thrill of the car’s 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 with 630Nm and broad, flat torque curve to ensure seamless, relentless acceleration. The GT will achieve true hypercar performance, reaching 60mph in 3.2 seconds, with a 202mph top speed. A cockpit with digital screen, navigation, air con and Bluetooth mean it’s not too basic inside! n

>> Inside, the cockpit retains the classic, driver-oriented look typical of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinettas.

Every element of the dash, door panels and tunnel has been completely redesigned specifically for the car. The F8 Tributo also boasts a new generation steering wheel and steering wheel-mounted controls as well as new styling on the standard seats.

ASTON MARTIN DBS SUPERLEGGERA £225,000: Costing an arm and a super-leg-gera, Aston Martin’s flagship GT is available as a coupé or Volanté soft top. At its heart is Aston Martin’s 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine.

Set low and as far back in the chassis as possible to optimise the centre-of-gravity and weight distribution, this high-performance engine develops 725PS at 6500rpm and 900Nm from 1800-5000rpm. Maximum speed of 211mph, 60mph in 3.4 seconds and of course, that James Bond feeling of nigh-omnipotence. n

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New round air vents are set in beautifully sculpted aluminium surrounds (also available in optional carbon-fibre) which cleverly underscore the dash structure.

Also to create a sense of visual lightness, a sliver of carbon fibre divides the upper and lower parts, streamlining the whole look.

This section also incorporates the optional

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“With instantly accessible power, exceptional handling and a fine v8 engine, this is very much a Ferrari for the future...”

7” touchscreen passenger-side display which provides an extra sporting touch.

The dash is completed by the classic instrument cluster with its central rev-counter and the new-generation steering wheel and commands.

It features a new bridge, a prominent sculptural creation that seems to float and thus further streamlines the cabin.

The result is a car which not only introduces a new design language for the

exterior future Ferraris, but one that points the way towards the cockpits of future Ferrari GTs too.

With instantly accessible power, exceptional handling finesse and a finely honed v8 engine, plus a brand new, modern cabin and up to the minute styling, this is very much a Ferrari for the future.

Best of all, it’s not a model for enthusiasts alone, but rather one which will bring the brand to a whole new generation of drivers set to fall in love with the marque. n

FERRARI F8 TRIBUTO Price: £203,476.

Engine/Drivetrain: 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged v8.

Performance: 0-62 mph: 2.9 seconds.

Top speed: 211mph.

Economy: 26.2mpg (unofficial).

Equipment: Leather seats, air con, launch control, Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer system, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. n 157

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Defender of Burghley EVENT SPONSOR LAND ROVER REVEALS DISCOVER AT BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS

LAND ROVER Title sponsors of Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, the world’s most famous 4x4 brand used this year’s event to reveal its new Defender ahead of an official Frankfurt Motorshow launch.

The company is hoping the new version will achieve the same reputation to reliability and ruggedness as its predecessor, which found favour with farmers, landowners

and adventurers the world over, with its boxy, crude but no-nonsense style and go-anywhere reputation.

The new model will be available in four trim levels, with petrol and diesel engines and ‘90,’ ‘110’ and ‘130’ wheelbases, even thought these no longer relate to wheelbase dimensions. Prices will begin at £40,000, with a more civilised driving experience promised. n

PHEvs are ‘Most Reliable’

HYBRID & ELECTRIC CARS PROVING RELIABLE SAYS WHAT CAR?

MOTORS

Wholesale price reductions not passed on to uK drivers...

FUEL COSTS Fuel retailers have been criticised for not passing on a drop in the wholesale price of petrol and diesel onto customers.

Last month the wholesale price of petrol fell by 4.38p, but forecourts dropped their retail prices by just 0.27p.

“By our calculations, retailers ought to be charging around 126p for a litre of unleaded based on a wholesale price of 98p a litre,” says simon Williams, fuel spokesperson at the RAC. n

Britain’s most and least reliable new and used cars have been revealed, with hybrid models among the most dependable.

What Car? reports Hybrid cars from Japanese brands topped the reliability charts, with the Lexus CT and Toyota Yaris Hybrid receiving a 100% reliability rating from owners.

Electric vehicles and hybrids have the best average reliability rating (96.1%) of the 10 car classes in the survey. What Car?, conducted in association with MotorEasy, used reader feedback from more than 18,000 drivers to find the country’s most dependable cars. n ELECTRIC

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

BEST SELLING CARS

SMMT REVEALS THE UK’S BEST SELLING CARS IN 2019...

The IAM has released a list of the uK’s best selling cars in the uK in 2019. over 92,000 new cars are purchased each month on average, for which the Ford Fiesta is responsible for around 4,000.

Petrol car sales are up by 1% compared to 2018, but sales of hybrid and plug-in models have soared by 377.5% compared to the previous year. Diesel sales have fallen by around 20% due to tax penalties for company car drivers.

The uK motor industry remains sluggish thanks to Brexit uncertainty, although 660,000 cars were assembled in the uK in the first half of 2019, with 80% of those manufactured exported and 57% of those export to the Eu. Best Selling Cars, Jan-August 2019: 1. Ford Fiesta 52,921 registrations.

2. volkswagen Golf 39,220 registrations.

3. Ford Focus 37,988 registrations.

4. vauxhall Corsa 34,653 registrations.

5. Nissan Qashqai 34,498 registrations.

6. Mercedes A Class 33,486 registrations.

7. volkswagen Polo 27,455 registrations.

8. Ford Kuga 25,116 registrations.

9. MINI 24,125 registrations.

10. Kia sportage 22,367 registrations. n

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MOTORS

volvo’s Family Friendly Flagship

We can’t think of a motoring manufacturer with a better reputation for safety and forward-thinking design than Volvo. So, we’re especially excited by the firm’s new family-friendly, plug-in hybrid seven seater 4x4... could this be the most practical car on the market today?

Words: Rob Davis.

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sports u tilitY vehicles or SUVs are enormously popular right now, the best selling style of car in the UK, slaughtering hatchbacks and estates in the sales charts. Land Rovers and Range Rover’s are ubiquitous, BMW has its X5; Audi has its q7; Mercedes has its GLE. For those seeking something a little left field though, Volvo’s XC90 has been a stalwart of the school run and represents one of the best value, most practical and luxurious 4x4s on the market today.

Newly facelifted, the XC90 is available in Momentum, sporty R-Design or Inscription trim, with prices from £53,000 to £72,000. Every version has adaptive cruise sontrol, leather, parking camera and sensors, heated leather seats, navigation and more.

What’s more, every version has seven seats and all wheel drive, as well as a whopping 1,800 litre boot with its rearmost seats folded, and a 2,700kg towing capability.

Upgrading to Momentum Pro gains nappa leather, ambient lighting and heated steering wheel, whilst Inscription and Inscription Pro add even more toys, but we think Momentum Pro is the sweet spot of the range. Avoid R-Design models with their larger wheels and firmer ride.

A new B5 diesel, T5 or T6 petrol engines. all displace two litres across four cylinders.

However, we’d pay a premium for a T8 plug-in hybrid, which sprints to 60mph in an impressive 5.5 seconds, and will reach 140mph on an autobahn.

With an electric-only range of 28 miles and helping the car to achieve 80mpg to 113mpg. If you charge it up via your household socket, it’s possible that you’ll never need to fill up with conventional fuel again.

the best value cars on the market with the greatest breadth of capabilities. True, it won’t have the raw ability of a Land Rover or Range Rover off the beaten track, but there’s sufficient off-road provision for most motorists as well as that lofty view and feeling of safety that only comes from driving a large SUV. XC90 is huge, a fact reflected in its spacious cabin, but it’s also ergonomically exceptional with perhaps the best seats of any car in the UK, as well as a button-free dashboard thanks to a large central touch screen which is intuitive to use.

We’d be inclined to add the Xenium pack, at £1,600, which adds a 360° camera and automatic parallel & perpendicular parking, but there’s little else you’ll want for from one of the best large 4x4s on the market, from a brand renowned for safety and practicality. n

VOLVO XC90 T8 PLUG IN HYBRID Price: £71,945 (on sale now).

Drivetrain: 2.0V4 petrol with 87hp electric motor, eight speed automatic and all-wheel drive.

Performance: 0-60mph 5.5secs, max speed 140mph.

Economy: 80mpg-113mpg (combined).

Equipment: Leather, seven seats, adaptive cruise, parking sensors and camera, navigation. n

Suddenly, the XC90 becomes simultaneously a great people carrier, a capable 4x4, and a car that’s economical enough for your local commutes, as well as a first class executive car, making it perhaps one of 161

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The Directory To advertise here call our friendly team on 01529 469977

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