Rutland Pride August 2024

Welcome

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Cause to celebrate recently, with a successful return of the Rutland Show, and with a familiar face in local politics in the form of Kelham Cooke who is representing Stamford Town Council as its chairman and Mayor for 2024/2025. Kelham has previously served as county councillor and chairman of South Kesteven District Council. He’s also lived in the area for most of his life and therefore has a genuine understanding of what Stamford and its surrounding villages need.

Also this month we’re meeting the local artists and designers who together form a talented local community across a variety of media. And helping to display their work, we’ll also profile the area’s art galleries too, and preview the contributors of Thirteen, a combined exhibition taking place at Stamford Arts Centre next month.

Meanwhile, we’re enjoying a visit to Medbourne’s Nevill Arms to promote one of the area’s most beautifully presented quality pub restaurants, and we’re helping to celebrate 10 years of local charity For Rutland, attending a garden party for the charity recently at Sue and David Moffat’s beautiful Redhill Lodge in the village of Barrowden. Speaking of gardens, we’ll also take a look at Robert Johnson’s latest project in Ketton as the landscape designer invites us to admire his work.

Finally, our congratulations and best wishes to the organisers of this year’s Rutland Show... the event was a great success, and hugely enjoyable!

Best wishes for a wonderful month!

Julian Wilkinson Publisher, Pride Magazines

This month’s covers show two late summer scenes, including Wakerley Bridge, Barrowden, with beautiful tones in the sky.

We’re always looking for great images of the area, so please feel free to email us your best photos to us at robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.

9 LUXURY HOMES Enjoy the finest selection of quality homes on the market in Rutland & Stamford.

22 NEWS ‘Good news’ stories from around Rutland & Stamford, including preparations for this year’s Defender Burghley Horse Trials.

24 HIGH LIFE 10 years of For Rutland.

34 HIGH LIFE We attend Copthill School Parents’ Summer Soirée.

50 WHAT’S ON Live music and theatre.

Highlights

28 CIVIC STAMFORD A familiar face for the town as Kelham Cooke takes over as Stamford’s Mayor for 2024 & 2025.

39 ART IN RUTLAND AND STAMFORD A celebration of all things visual with a roundup of the area’s artists, designers and gallery spaces.

Food & Drink

56 DINING OUT Enjoying pastureto­plate traceability at Medbourne’s Nevill Arm quality pub­restaurant.

65 WINE This month we ‘order, order’ a bottle from The Houses of Parliament.

Homes & Gardens

68 WELCOME HOME A property with 12 acres, on the market with Moores.

78 HOMES & INTERIORS Self building and stylish homes, plus handmade kitchens from Lewis & Hill.

99 GARDENS Landscaping flair as Robert Johnson shows off his latest project.

Lifestyle

116 MOTORS BMW’s open top 4 Series.

119 BEAUTY & FASHION Linens.

126 WEDDINGS Miranda and Henry. AUGUST 2024

Delivered free of charge to high value homes in the county

Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county. Our circulation is to homes in the top three council tax bands, which are predominantly worth over £500,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content.

The magazine is also sold in leading newsagents and supermarkets and we also deliver the magazine to local businesses including selected hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs. This helps to ensure we have a continued presence, right across our catchment area.

Our titles also have more social media fans than any other local magazine. In addition we have over 45,000 online visitors viewing our magazines free of charge, online, on their tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website, our app, 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.

Guide Price £900,000

Berrybrooke House, Bisbrooke

Berrybrooke House is a substantial, limestone-built home offering large and light accommodation with five bedrooms and three bathrooms. It stands in approximately a quarter of an acre with well-established gardens, parking, and garaging whilst enjoying an edge of village location with beautiful countryside views to the rear.

Offers In Excess Of £700,000

Offers In Excess Of £700,000

Manor House and Manor Cottage, Scalford

Manor House, originally built in the 17th century is a Grade II listed, fivebedroom, ironstone period home in need of renovation and modernisation throughout with an attached two-bedroom red-brick cottage and sitting on a generous plot of approximately 4.6 acres on the edge of the village of Scalford.

Offers In Excess Of £600,000

Grange Farm, Tilton on the Hill

Grange Farm, originally built in the late 1800’s, is an ironstone, period farmhouse offering around 5000 ft² of accommodation in need of full restoration, sitting in a well-established plot of approximately 1.5 acres surrounded by the beautiful Leicestershire countryside.

Friern Cottage, Ridlington

Friern Cottage is a three/four-bedroom, ironstone and brick-built thatched cottage offering flexible accommodation and offering an incredibly generous plot of approximately 0.40 acres with mature gardens, off-road parking and garaging, all sitting in the heart of Ridlington village.

Find Your Perfect Home

The finest selection of luxury homes on the market in Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding area

Above: Knoll House in Uppingham, currently on the market with Savills of Stamford for £995,000, call 01780 484696

A rare opportunity to purchase the most charming, five bedroom house dating back to the 18th century with a beautiful, mature garden in the delightful conservation village of Ketton, stands overlooking the Chater Valley. The sought after village is well served and awash with listed buildings making it a most alluring place to live.

Guide Pride: £1,295,000

Ketton Rutland

Manor Farm House

This stunning four bedroomed family home dates to c.17th century and boasts character features throughout with a fully enclosed garden, garaging and off-road parking, nestled in the much sought-after Rutland village of Barrowden. Often considered to be one of the more picturesque villages in Rutland due to its beautiful setting amongst hills and rivers. Local village amenities include a doctor’s surgery and pharmacy, a village shop and a popular pub, The Exeter Arms.

Guide Price: £775,000

Barrowden

Knoll House is an impressive family home and former Victorian Hunting Lodge within the sought after market town of Uppingham. With a prominent hill top position surrounded by woodland, the property was constructed with mellow stone and Collyweston slate. Offering significant accommodation over three floors.

Offers Over: £995,000

Knoll House Uppingham

North Street West

Uppingham Offers in Excess of: £900,000

Positioned in a fabulous location in the heart of Uppingham is this stunning Grade II listed home boasting 5 double bedrooms and universal living arrangements, completely renovated throughout to offer a premium finish now featuring a large driveway with a double oak framed carport.

Berrybrooke House

Bisbrooke

Berrybrooke House is a substantial, limestone-built home offering large and light accommodation with five bedrooms and three bathrooms. It stands in approximately a quarter of an acre with well-established gardens, parking, and garaging whilst enjoying an edge of village location with beautiful countryside views to the rear.

Guide Price: £900,000

Meadow Barn

Market Overton

Meadow Barn is a substantial new residence, one of two stylish new country homes set in the Rutland countryside just outside the village of Market Overton, recently completed by award winning local developer Distinctive Developments. Constructed of locally sourced coursed rubble and ashlar stone and reclaimed style red brick set under a blue slate roof, this impressive new home has been designed and built with sustainability, energy efficiency and low maintenance in mind.

Price: £1,250,000

Moores Estate Agents Goodwood House, Hackamore Way, Barleythorpe, Oakham, LE15 7FS Call 01780 484555 or see www.countryequestrianhomes.com

Skirbeck Hall enjoys a private, slightly elevated position within a small exclusive gated development on the outskirts of the historic market town of Boston. Dating back to 1847 with 20th Century alterations and extensions, this beautiful Grade II Listed family home enjoyed a rich history, initially the former rectory and later as a private girl's school before being totally renovated between 2000 and 2003. Skirbeck Gardens

Boston Guide Price: £1,250,000

Fairweather 22 Dolphin Lane, Boston, PE21 6EU. Call 01205 336122 or see www.fairweather-estateagents.co.uk

Considerations for First time buyers

Getting onto the property ladder has always been a challenge, but perhaps even more so at the moment. A report has found that it is currently the most expensive time to be a first-time buyer (FTB) in over 70 years [Source: Building Societies Association].

Managing monthly payments

Higher mortgage repayments are a particular barrier to homeowning; between March 2022 and November 2023, the average mortgage rate for FTBs increased from 2.2% to 5.6%[Source: UK Finance]. To make monthly costs more affordable, people are often opting to take on longer mortgages, with a fifth of FTBs in 2023 choosing terms of 35 years or more. In the previous year, fewer than one in ten opted for mortgages of this length.

Larger deposits

Since 2005, the average home deposit has increased by 160% - largely due to a steady increase in house prices and varying availability of high loan-to value (LTV) mortgages [Source: Building Societies Association]. Now, the average FTB in the UK can expect to put down £60,000 on their first home. However, this figure varies significantly depending on the region – it can be as high as £144,000 in London, or as low as £27,000 in North East England.

Calling in help

To get on the property ladder, most FTBs will either need two incomes that are higher than average, or financial support from family or friends. In fact, 37% of FTBs in 2022-23 received a gift or loan from friends or family, compared with 27% the previous year [Source: English Housing Survey]. This means that those most likely to lose out on home ownership are either on a lower income, buying alone, or cannot receive help from family.

Older renters

The challenges facing FTBs mean that hopeful homeowners are often forced to stay in the private rented sector for longer. Over the last two decades, the average age of an FTB has increased from 32 to 36.

Calling for change

The experiences of FTBs reflect the condition of the wider property market. The UK has not seen such a low level of outstanding mortgages since the end of the 1980s [Source: Building

Societies Association], so serious consideration must be given to how to make homeowning more affordable. With the General Election imminent, the Building Society Association reflected that a new government ‘should commit to a package of housing policies that make homes more affordable, more available, and more appropriate to the needs of those living in them and the world we live in.’

Seek advice

We understand that it can feel overwhelming trying to get your foot on the property ladder, but you don’t have to do it alone. We can explore the options for you and help to make your home owning dreams a reality – just get in touch for advice.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Local News

Stamford ready for Burghley Horse Trials

Toughest competition in eventing takes place from Thursday 5th to Sunday 8th September and will attract around 175,000 spectators and 350 horses

Wild Rutland and Birdfair

Wild Rutland shows support for Rutland’s Global Birdfair thanks to leading conservation experts

Two leading conservationists will join Wild Rutland’s CEO at Lyndon Top, for Rutland’s renowned Global Birdfair organised by Tim Appleton MBE, which takes place as Pride goes to press. The proposed wildlife park and nature reserve will sponsor this year’s Plover lecture stage. This year the stage will feature Laura Gardner, Director of Conservation and Rewilding at the Wildwood Trust in Kent and Laura Vaughan-Hirsch, the White Stork Project Officer and Biologist from Knepp Wildlife Trust. Hugh Vere Nicoll CEO of Wild Rutland will also speak at the event taking place from 12th-14th

July.“Wild Rutland is committed to the conservation of British wildlife, and we are delighted to support our leading advisor to the project Tim Appleton, the organiser of the brilliant Global Birdfair event, by sponsoring one of its lecture stages,” said Hugh Vere Nicoll. “Tim Appleton’s important work towards raising over £42 million for BirdLife International conservation projects, around the world, is a phenomenal achievement.”

Final preparations are underway for the toughest challenge in eventing as Defender Burghley Horse Trials returns early next month, attracting over 175,000 competitors.

The CCI5* event with its dressage, cross-country and showjumping elements will see 350 horses competing in the competition, across 530 acres of parkland.

Burghley Horse Trials first came to Stamford in 1961 when a previous fixture, Harewood House, was unable to host its event. This will be the 60th Burghley Horse Trials to take place in Stamford and it’s believed that the event is worth over £20m to the local economy every time it takes place.

Notable competitors in previous years include Zara Tindall, Piggy March, Pippa Funnel and last year’s winner Oliver Townend

Stamford is thriving...!

Report in The Times last month listed Stamford in its top ten ‘thriving High Streets’ feature

Stamford’s town centre is still thriving, when many other market towns are suffering empty shops and lower footfall.

Of course, we already knew that, but it’s nice to have it confirmed by The Times in its recent list of thriving High Streets across Britain in which Stamford enjoyed a mention,

being described as ‘blooming lovely, from its medieval façades to its pedestrianised cobbles.’

Some of Stamford’s best independent business including Katie Cardew, Sophie Allport, St Mary’s Books and Energy are all helping to ensure Stamford retains a healthy, individual look and feel for shoppers.

Sophie triumphs at Chelsea

Second year in a row winning five stars for her stand at Chelsea Flower Show, Sophie Allport triumphs

For the second year running local designer Sophie Allport has been awarded five stars for the company’s stand at the Chelsea Flower Show.

“It’s is one of my favourite events of the year,” says Sophie. “The team have worked hard behind the scenes, it looks truly spectacular and it’s always such a delight to meet our customers!”

See www.sophieallport.com.

Send your press releases & business news to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

No need to fear the sharks!

Most shark groups are harmless, especially these ones. Peterborough Cathedral presents animatronic wonders

Peterborough Cathedral is presenting its summer exhibition this month, which attempts to show that most sharks are harmless and fascinating. Monsters of the Sea will be bought to the Cathedral by World Touring Exhibitions from July 15th to September 1st, 2024.

The exhibition will feature 16 life-size animatronic sea creatures spanning from prehistoric eras to modern times, offering visitors an exciting journey through the depths of marine history.

A dynamic schedule of marine-themed events will run alongside the exhibition, offering visitors a wealth of opportunities to delve deeper into the wonders of the sea. From guest lectures to familyfriendly workshops, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

“Monsters of the Sea promises to be the highlight of Peterborough Cathedral's summer calendar, offering a mesmerising mix of entertainment, education, and exploration,” says The Very Revd Chris Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough Cathedral.

See www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.

And Finally... Brooke Peverell, Founder and Director or S!NGS is inviting participants to engage with The Big Sing!, a large community event taking place on Saturday 12th October 7pm at Stamford School. The Big Sing! will see the creation of Stamford’s largest ever community choir in a day, with a celebratory concert in the evening. This event will be in aid of Mindspace Stamford. To participate, see www.singschoirs.co.uk.

High Life

10 Years of For Rutland

A wonderful (and sunny!) garden party at Redhill Lodge in Barrowden allowed over 100 supporters of For Rutland to celebrate the charity’s 10th anniversary

Images: Rob Davis.

A beautiful garden, great company, good food, wine... and sunshine. We were privileged to be invited to Barrowden’s Redhill Lodge recently to join over 100 friends of For Rutland in celebrating the charity’s 10th anniversary. Sue and Richard Moffitt, who are Garden Designers for M360 Design, hosted the event, with delicious lamb wraps and Asian Slaw served by Gwilym and James of Launde Farm Foods. For Rutland raises funds to pay for specialist advisers at Citizens Advice Rutland, who provide free, confidential, independent, non-medical advice to people of all ages who are living with long-term health conditions in Rutland and the surrounding area. Since For Rutland started in June 2014, the specialist advisers have obtained over £9.2m for local people through benefit gain, debt write-off or grant funding. For more information on the charity, see www.forrutland.org.uk.

Bespoke Tailors & Shirt Makers

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Please Telephone for an appointment

11A High Street St Martins Stamford 01780 762544

Civic Stamford Kelham Cooke Stamford’s Mayor in 2024

As Kelham Cooke takes on the chains of office for 2024/2025, we speak to Stamford’s Mayor about the rich heritage and best qualities of the town

Words: Rob Davis.

Stamford has a new mayor... but he’s a familiar face! Kelham Cooke will represent the town for 2024 and 2025, having previously served as the Leader of South Kesteven District Council, representing the Casewick ward along with Cllr Rosemary Trollope-Bellew.

It’s an interesting time for politics. At the time of writing, we’re a week or two away from the general election, and with constituency boundary changes, local MP Alicia Kearns formerly of Rutland & Melton is now standing to represent Rutland & Stamford.

Elsewhere, Lincolnshire County Council and the councils of North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire are keen to pursue devolution, which will see an additional tier of governance focusing on strategic decisions, devolved powers and greater discretion on funding, granted to a tier of leadership above Lincolnshire County Council.

Should devolution proceed, the process will also see the election of a directly elected Mayor to oversee Greater Lincolnshire, however that doesn’t mean the loss of our town or borough Mayors whose identities, in Stamford’s case, have been recorded since its charter was renewed in 1462.

21st century life in Stamford is a little different from the medieval era, when the town’s population was just 5,000. That gradually increased to 11,000 in the mid-20th century and latterly reached 20,000.

In such an era, both a modern system of governance and a local Mayor who is in touch with the town’s character, heritage and its people will be a great asset in preserving Stamford whilst ensuring it remains a vibrant, modern community.

Six boards in Stamford Town Hall recall the name of the town’s past mayors and the latest addition to the most recent board will be Cllr Kelham Cooke, who’s well-known in the town and well-versed in local politics.

“I really do love our town, it’s the place I call home and where many of my friends and family live. I have always had a desire in the past that I’d like to one day serve as Mayor of my hometown and to give back to Stamford and to do my best for our community.”

Educated at both Kirkstone House and Stamford Endowed Schools, Kelham read Business and Economics at Nottingham Trent University, graduating in 2011. At 20 years of age, Kelham whilst still at University stood for election and was successful in being elected

to South Kesteven District Council for Casewick ward, a position he held until May 2023. During his time with the District Council, he was elected to the cabinet in 2015, then became Deputy Leader in 2017 and served as Leader from 2019-2023, providing strategic direction for 56 councillors and an area covering 365 square miles with a population of 155,000 residents.

In May 2021 Kelham was successfully elected to Lincolnshire County Council as the County Councillor for Stamford East Division and currently sits on the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Committee as well as serving as Vice Chair of the Adults & Community Scrutiny Committee.

From 2013 to 2023, Kelham also worked in the House of Commons for Nick Boles and Gareth Davies on constituency matters, local campaigns, policy matters and liaising with regional and national partners on behalf of the MPs.

Elected to Stamford Town Council in May 2023 at the same time South Kesteven Conservatives lost control to a coalition of independents, Greens, Liberal Democrats and Labour councillors, Kelham began working in PR and Communications for Meeting Place managing development and engagement communications, whilst also continuing to serve as a member of the St Martin’s Church Conservation Trust.

He was elected to represent the St Mary’s Ward on Stamford Town Council under the previous Mayor and Chairman Andy Croft, and on the 2nd May this year, he became Mayor of Stamford after one year on the council!

During the War of the Roses, Stamford was one of the 10 largest towns in England and it was seized by the Lancastrians who partly destroyed All Saints’ Church and the town archives, as well as its charters. In 1462, under Edward IV, Stamford’s charters were renewed, with George Chapman already serving as Mayor and John Browne taking up the position a year later.

Since then there has been over 560 mayors, each serving a year’s tenure. Among these is Henry Deer, a local alderman, boot and shoe-maker, prominent local methodist and long-standing town councillor. Deer was awarded the Honorary Freedom of the Town in 1945, one of only six occasions that the honour has been bestowed on anyone (though the honour was also given to Sir Malcolm Sargent in October 1961).

Henry Deer was the town’s wartime mayor, serving in 1929 and then from 1940-1945.

That role that Aldermen played in local politics would be replaced in 1974, and today’s civic members are elected, accountable and they work harder than ever.

“I think Andy Croft, during his tenure last year, made over a hundred civic appearances,” says Kelham.

“The role that different tiers of governance play are equally valuable, from county to district to town council tier. One of the aspects of working as part of a town council that’s most rewarding is the very direct connection to the community that the job necessitates.”

“The work varies from week to week, but the role is about looking after our local facilities and parts of the town which are really important to the community at a level that’s very personal, from playing fields and allotments to cemeteries and public conveniences!”

“It’s an opportunity to represent the town and make sure it’s a great place to live at a community level. At the same time, as a town councillor and as Mayor I can be very much connected to those who live in Stamford,

helping organise or appearing at events, meeting community groups and helping to support its residents, its business community our great local independent businesses.”

“A really good town council should be visible, relevant and accessible, and all of our 21 town councillors really are invested in preserving what makes Stamford special, from its close community to its diversity, its history and its architecture.”

“Already I’ve had the pleasure of attending a prize-giving event for local students at my old school, supporting Stamford’s Shoestring Theatre group at their recent performance and witnessing the sight of over 500 RollsRoyce and Bentley cars in the parkland of Burghley House. It’s been a pleasure and I’m looking forward to really standing up for Stamford.”

“It’s also been great to welcome people to the Town Hall recently to introduce them to the town’s impressive civic regalia.”

“Even those familiar with the town’s history are guaranteed to learn something new, so I can definitely recommend booking a tour with one of our guides to learn more about the town and to see its heritage for yourself!”

Restoration of Stamford’s Civic Heritage

Work is approaching completion on the restoration of the six boards recording the names of Stamford’s past mayors, from 1462 to 2024

In the first floor courtroom of Stamford Town Council are six boards listing each of the town’s mayors, dating back to 1462. With successive centuries of pollution, UV light damage and the expansion and contraction of the boards upon which the names are painted, cracking and fading of the oil­based pigments can occur.

That’s why the Town Council has sought out the expertise of Lincoln Conservation Consultant Rhiannon Clarricoates (ACR) and conservator Wei­Chan Birkett to complete a heritage clean of the boards’ surfaces.

After completing a degree in Conservation and Restoration at De Montfort University, Rhiannon completed an MA in Conservation of Fine Art at the University of Northumbria and has been a member of ICON (Institute of Conservation), serving as secretary of the specialists’ Paintings Group for over a decade. The team previously completed a restoration of the oldest board, covering the period from 1462 to 1700, and during April and May, two further panels covering 1701­1749, 1750­1789. The work involves pigment analysis, surface cleaning, removal of discoloured varnishes, overpaint removal, and re­instatement of damaged text.

Civic Stamford

Stamford’s Civic Regalia

Stamford Town Hall is home to the town’s civic charters, plate and regalia. Following the closure of Stamford Museum in 2010, many of the artefacts were returned to the town council, where they now reside, cared for by professional conservators. We’ve featured some here but there are many more pieces on display

1. The Mayoress’s Chain

The Mayoress’s Chain was subscribed for and given by the Ladies of Stamford in 1916, as the Mayoress had no mark of office before that time.

2. Browning’s Inscription

On the reverse of the Mayor’s Chain of Office is an inscription by Edward Browning, Mayor in 1863. Browning was an architect based at No16 Broad Street, and rebuilt Stamford Town Bridge in 1848 whilst working alongside his father Bryan. He was also architect and surveyor for the Dean of Peterborough Cathedral and surveyor of Ecclesiastical Dilapidations for the Archdeaconry of Oakham.

3. The Large Mace

The Large Mace was given to the town in 1678 by then MP Charles Bertie. It is close in appearance to the mace in the House of Commons. Made of hand-wrought silver gilt, the Large Mace is a working object meaning that although it is used for Civic occasions, it is conserved to museum standards in terms of care, and the Town Council’s trusted Mace Bearers are specially trained in how to carry it safely during civic processions.

4 & 5. Drinking Beaker & Horn Snuff Flask

The Drinking Beaker (1799) and Horn Snuff Flask (1837) are both made of horn. Though not pictured here, in June 1972 the Borough commemorated 1,000 years of Stamford’s recorded history with The Mazers (hard wood drinking bowls), presented to the Town Regalia by Stamford Development Committee. One depicts King Edgar with noblemen and the others of the Court around AD 972. The other has a selection of religious characters from the Medieval era.

Stamford Mayor’s Chain of Offi

ce

The Mayor’s Chain of Office was presented by Edward Browning, Stamford’s Mayor in 1863. It is in silver­gilt and consists of 39 links in the shape of a letter S.

Whilst you might expect the ‘S’ to stand for Stamford, it probably stands for ‘Sovereign.’

There is a centre medallion with the Borough Arms and within the centre link is a Noble coin known as an Angel, which was minted in the reign of Edward IV.

On the reverse of the medallion is the inscription ‘Edward Browning Esq, Mayor of Stamford 1863 giveth this Badge to the Towne for ever to pass from Mayor to Mayor.’

Pictured above: Andrew Croft, Mayor of Stamford, 2023­2024.

6. Original Hall Book

The Town Council’s Hall Books contain the minutes, or official record, of council meetings. The oldest Hall Book (seen here) is leather bound and covers the earliest period from 1461 to 1657. The council has a complete record of all formal council meetings from 1462 to the present.

7. Waits’ Badges

There are six Waits’ Badges, four of which date from 1691. They are made of silver gilt and engraved with the Arms of the Borough. The Town Waits were officers and musicians attached to the Mayor and Corporation who all appeared to have had civil duties.

8. Wand of Office

The silver Wand of Office dates from the 15th Century and was given to the Borough by Edward IV when he visited to issue the town with a new Charter during the first year of his reign.

Not Pictured

Other items it wasn’t practical to photograph include the Town Council’s RAF Victory Sword which was presented by RAF Wittering to the town on the 32nd Anniversary of the Battle of Britain in 1972. The civic collection also includes a gilded Punch Bowl made of solid silver. It was handmade and weighs 7.5kg. It was also given by Charles Bertie MP in 1685 and it is believed to be the finest punch bowl in any civic collection. Finally, a collection of 15 civic charters is believed to be one of the largest collections in the country. The oldest dates from 1462 (Edward IV) up to William IV (1830-1837).

All items in the Civic Plate can be viewed during a guided tour of the Town Hall, call 01780 753808.

High Life

Copthill Parents’ Summer Soirée

Copthill Parents Social Committee (CPSC) held their summer soirée recently in a beautifully decorated marquee, full of wild flowers

Images: Rob Davis.

Copthill’s parents went back to school recently to enjoy an evening soirée in a marquee adjacent to Copthill School. Around 150 attendees enjoyed a drinks reception followed by canapés and dancing until the early hours to music from DJ Rick Santini. The Canapé Cart provided amazing canapés and bowl food followed by delicious brownies from Catherine Dennis alongside a huge cheeseboard and macaroons. Fresh native flowers were courtesy of Flowers by Tanya. Copthill School is an independent nursery and day school for children age two to 11 years, which aims to offer a well-rounded education and exceptional academic standards. The school’s unique location on the 300-acre farm is creatively used to enhance the children’s experiences. For more information see www.copthill.com.

Contemporary Fine Art in Uppingham

British Contemporary Fine Art in the Heart of England.

High Street , Uppingham | Chris Prout | 16” x 20”

27 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY

Open every day from 10.30am to 4.00pm | 01572 410048

All artwork is available to view online on our website www.rutlandgallery.com

Artists & Designers

Fine A rt

This month our celebration of all things visual, with a roundup of the area’s most talented local artists and designers, galleries and an Open Studio event taking place next month featuring no fewer than 13 of our local artists collaborating on an exhibition at Stamford Arts Centre

Six colourful mixed­media pieces created by Uppingham artist Sue Johnson. Sue is one of the exhibitors at THIRTEEN, a joint open studio event at Stamford Arts Centre from 3rd ­26th September. Sue will also join with fellow artist Jackie Cheetham at an open studios event at Cuckoo Farm, Exton on 7th/8th September and 14th/15th September.

Artists & Designers

Rutland & Stamford are rich in talent when it comes to the sheer number of artists and designers who have made their home in the area.

From those producing canvas-based work and motifs for linens and homeware, to artwork for books and magazines or sculptural pieces, we’re keen to celebrate some of the most creative folk in the area...

Nick Grove, Painter

Based in Stamford, Nick Grove stepped out of his 1978 Volkswagen camper van one morning during a trip to the Norfolk coast. After a career as a fine art photographer and filmmaker, he was seeking a change of direction.

Taking a deep breath of coastal air, Nick set up his easel and began to create en plein air canvases including images of the coast, and of Stamford, working ‘alla prima’ – i.e.: at first attempt, setting up on the street and painting the scene immediately rather than working from a sketch or photograph. Nick’s work varies in size, from 10”x 12” to 24”x 30” and usually takes about three hours in situ, with a few hours back in the studio, to finesse each piece.

Nick’s work includes paintings of Stamford’s Broad Street, Ironmonger Street, Red Lion Square and The Meadows

His previous subjects include Stamford’s Broad Street, Ironmonger Street, Red Lion Square and The Meadows. Today Nick works from his studio in Stamford Arts Centre and provides tuition from the centre, and in the fresh air in Stamford.

See www.nickgrove-artworks.co.uk.

Rebecca Ivatts

On Uppingham’s Queen St, Rebecca’s vibrant space integrates an art gallery and working studio. Trained at the Slade School of Art, her bold paintings offer a contemporary take on the human figure. She has a special interest in the mind/brain and is currently working on a football-dementia awareness project. Rebecca offers private commissions and art classes; she has taught at the Guardian and Mayfair Arts Club. www.rebeccaivatts.com, @rebeccaivatts

Nick Grove’s Evening Light in Red Lion Square, Stamford, £1,500, 12” x 16” oil on board.

Chris Groombridge

These days, South Luffenham-based sculptor Chris Groombridge can usually be found working away in his beautiful studio.

Before settling in Rutland though, the artist worked in film and TV; sculpting sets for the prequel trilogy of the Star Wars franchise, for pop concerts by Kylie and Lady Gaga and on sculptures for Disney film premieres, or for the entrance lobby of Claridges, for instance.

Today Chris creates bas relief panels and sculptural pieces of horses, human hands and famous faces like Churchill or the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip. A likeness of the Duke was created by Chris as Rutland’s memorial back in April 2021. It is now on display at the Rutland Showground

See www.groombridgesculpture.co.uk.

Belinda Sillars

Raised in Suffolk and now locally based, Belinda Sillars is this year’s Defender Burghley Horse Trials sculptor in residence.

Working alongside the event’s other Artist in Residence, Daniel Crane, Belinda will be given wide access to the event, including behind the scenes, with a view to creating a piece of sculpture that captures the spirit of Burghley, from 5th to 8th September.

Belinda creates sculptures in bronze and has undertaken many significant commissions including pieces for World Series Racing Championships, Hickstead Dressage and Chatsworth and Bramham International Horse Trials. Belinda has also exhibited at Burghley since the 1990s.

See www.belindasillars.com.

Left: Rebecca Ivatts, artist and tutor based at Uppingham’s Queen Street Gallery. Top: South Luffenham­based sculptor, Chris Groombridge was recently honoured to be an approved exhibitor at The Royal Windsor Horse Show. Above: Belinda Sillars, is this year’s sculptor in residence for the Defender Burghley Horse Trials, images by Anthony Morris.

Angela Harding

Fine art painter, illustrator and printmaker

Angel Harding is based in the village of Wing, which is rather appropriate given that birds are a major source of inspiration for her work. Educated at Leicester Print Workshop, Angela uses traditional techniques – linocut artwork using engraving techniques and silk screen printing – to produce block-printed artwork which features the natural world, and reflects the changing seasons.

Angela’s work can be seen on the covers of books in magazines like Country Living and on her own range of notelets, cards, and linens. Her illustrations have also formed the basis of her own books, Wild Light, A Year Unfolding and RSPB Birds Book and 2024’s Wilding, all available from her website. See www.angelaharding.co.uk.

Artists & Designers

Emily Howard

Graduating from university three years ago, Emily Howard was compelled to follow her dreams and go self-employed. Combining her two biggest passions, art and animals, she began offering colourful, characterful acrylic paintings on canvas. These feature native UK animals (hares, Highland cows, game birds) or wild animals from her travels (Emily travelled to Zimbabwe to spend a month volunteering on a safari park). Emily is also available for commissions or pet portraits and sells a range of limited edition and original paintings. She collaborated with Next Home on a range of prints in 2022 and 2023. Emily is currently renovating her first house, and is turning an outhouse into a beautiful little studio which she is looking forward to working from!

See www.emily-howard.co.uk.

Katie Cardew

London? An office job? Nope... that just wasn’t right for Katie Cardew. Instead, back in 2013 she quit the smoke, moved back in with the folks, and began her career as an illustrator. Ten years, two children and three shops later, Katie enjoys continued success as one of the area’s most renowned illustrators, with stores in Stamford, Lincoln and Oakham.

Working with her business partner Emma Marsh, the brand has grown considerably with Katie’s work on prints, linens, wallpaper and stationery. Katie also offers personalised prints and undertakes bespoke commissions. Her work has been featured in Country Living, The Field, the Telegraph... and her previous clients include the Historic Royal Palaces, Bettys Tearoom and Estée Lauder.

See www.katiecardew.com.

Above: Emily Howard in her studio with ‘Ferguson the Fox,’ £260, hand­embellished giclée print, A2 on canvas.

Below: Katie Cardew’s Stamford map, fine art print, £170, framed A1 with personalisation.

Tuesday 3rd September to Thursday 26th September 2024

Thirteen at Stamford Arts Centre

THIRTEEN will next month see like-minded artists, drawn together to explore contrasting themes of nature, landscape, surface pattern and abstraction.

Under the umbrella of the Northants and Rutland Open Studios arts festival this group of local artists have got together to produce an exciting and diverse exhibition of paintings, textile work, printmaking and sculpture. Some of the artists will also be opening their studios in September and participating in other exhibitions and events throughout the region.

The work itself ranges from bright and bold to subtle and delicate. Inspiration is drawn from the natural world, art history, and the urban landscape, and may be produced in paint, stitch, felt, print, stone and bronze. THIRTEEN will take place at Stamford Arts Centre, from 3rd­26th September from Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm. For more information see www.nros.co.uk.

1. Andrea Naylor

A professional artist based in Cottesmore, Andrea has 20 years of experience capturing pets, people and wildlife in pastels. Andrea provides tuition and undertakes commissions. 07590 678468, www.andreanaylor.co.uk.

2. Josette Carroll

Josette works from her garden studio in Ketton, producing paintings and sculptural pieces inspired by her interest in the abstract and surrealist artists of the 20th century. 07890 408452, www.josettecarroll.com.

3. Sue Johnson

Based in Uppingham, Sue loves creating paper and mixed media collage. Exhibiting with Jackie Cheetham at Cuckoo Farm, Exton on 7th/8th and 14th/15th September. 07525 142334, www.johnsonstudio.co.uk.

4. Shani Wray­Jenkins

Shani worked as a fashion designer before retiring to pursue her life-long dream of becoming an artist, producing still life and abstracts in acrylics and mixed media. See www.artbyshani.co.uk.

5. Heather Harrison

Graphic designer turned professional artist, Heather paints in oils and acrylics, choosing themes that resonate deeply with her and she especially enjoys creating garden art. See www.heatherharrisonart.co.uk.

6. Eve Marshall

For Eve Marshall, it all begins with a bit of fluff and a lot of imagination! The textile artist uses a bold colour palette, plus the layering of wool fibres with silks and other textures to represent woodlands and gardens. See www.evemarshall.co.uk.

7. Jackie Cheetham

Above: Jackie Cheetham, In Indigo.

Opposite: Andrea Naylor in her studio. Carol Pairaudeau’s Type/Write, 30cm. Four Swallows bronze by Joel Walker. Opposite: Sue Johnson, mixed media artist based in Uppingham.

Exton artist and former archaeologist, Jackie also spent 20 years in the Greeting Card industry working with talented artists and designers. The mixed-media artist now makes bright, atmospheric semi-abstract landscape paintings about memory and place. 07973 911179, jackiecheethamartist.com.

8. Alyssa Robinson

Textile artist, cartographer and geologist, Alyssa is now a mixed-media textile artist creating bold semi-abstract panels featuring landscapes, birds, and our local landscape. See www.alyssarobinsontextiles.com.

9. Donna Drouin

Donna is a printmaker, poet and painter whose work stems from an almost daily plein air practice of using inks, watercolours, pencils and natural media. See www.instagram.com/donna_a_drouin.

10. Glenda Gibson

Canvas-based artist working in oils and in acrylics to create colourful abstract pieces. www.glendagibson.com.

11. Joel Walker

Local Sculptress Joel Walker has been working in clay and casting in bronze to make detailed sculptures of people and animals for nearly 35 years. Her work has been chosen for statues, gifts, awards and as trophies. Joel also has her work cast in UK foundries, including at Le Blanc in Saxby 01664 454987, www.animalsculpture.co.uk.

12. Carol Pairaudeau

Carol Pairaudeau is a mixed-media artist producing contemporary work incorporating traditional printmaking techniques. See www.carolpairaudeau.co.uk.

13. Robert Fogell

The focus of Robert Fogell’s current work is its simplicity. He explores the interaction of sculptural geometry, symmetry, and proportion in experimentation with positive and negative space. In each sculpture, organic forms converge in an interplay of rhythmic harmony. Building up from small maquettes, Fogell’s works utilise a combination of bronze, stone, steel, and mixed media. Exhibiting with The Nine British Art, London, since 2016, Fogell is now represented solely by the gallery. 020 7930 9293, theninebritishart.co.uk.

Galleries and Studios in Rutland & Stamford

T his month we’re celebrating the wealth of talent available to view and own in Stamford and Rutland with a look at a few of the area’s best local galleries. All of our featured galleries are privately owned and really friendly, aways willing to introduce you to the talent behind the work they exhibit!

GLADWELL& PATTERSON

High Street, Stamford from August 2024

Exciting times for Gladwell & Patterson, which has specialised in fine art since 1746. In August, the business’s local gallery is relocating from Oakham into the former HSBC premises on Stamford’s High Street. The new gallery will afford space for both oil and watercolour canvas art as well as sculptures and design-led furniture.

Gladwell & Patterson also has a gallery on Knightsbridge’s Beauchamp Place in London and will continue to exhibit larger sculptural pieces at Deeping’s Molecey Mill (viewing by appointment). The gallery will enjoy a presence at The Game Fair from 26th-28th July and will exhibit for the third time at the Burghley Horse Trials in September.

Shown below is Morning Light, St Martin’s, oil on canvas, Peter Van Breda, £5,950.

High Street Stamford, 07767 824245, or see www.gladwellpatterson.com.

THE RUTLAND GALLERY, 27 HIGH STREET EAST, UPPINGHAM

Open Every Day, 10:30am to 4:00pm. Call 01572 510048, see www.rutlandgallery.com

The Rutland Gallery opened in December 2022 under the ownership of John Jolley, who has collected art for over 40 years. The gallery is located in the heart of Uppingham and shows an eclectic portfolio of contemporary paintings and sculpture by renowned British artists. The artwork is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Uppingham with the oldest part purported to date back to 1472. The gallery with its beams, and ancient wooden floors is a stunning space to showcase contemporary art. Its light-filled interior provides the perfect backdrop for its exhibitions of contemporary landscapes, figurative paintings and so more. The gallery’s rotating exhibits ensure there’s always something new to captivate visitors, drawing art enthusiasts from all over the country. Whether you're an avid art collector or a curious passer-by, The Rutland Gallery promises an enriching experience, merging the charm of Rutland with the dynamism of contemporary art.

ADRIAN

HILL

FINE ART

The Mews, Stamford PE9 2LB

Adrian Hill Fine Art celebrates the fourth anniversary of its Stamford gallery this month. It showcases original paintings and works of art such as this mixed media example Valentine’s Day, by Rosa Sepple Call 01780 480800 or see www.adrianhillfineart.com.

TRENT GALLERIES

Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA. Call 01572 722790, see www.trentgalleries.co.uk.

Trent Galleries has been selling original and limited edition fine art for over three decades and in addition to its gallery on Oakham’s Mill Street, the company also has galleries in Newark and Lincoln as well as Beverley. The gallery features some of the world’s top artists including Doug Hyde, whose contemporary work is colourful, bright and distinctive, and Christian Hook, whose cityscapes and equestrian images are rooted in tradition, yet brim with freshness and vitality. 11th August will see a new release of Doug Hyde’s latest collection and Christian Hook’s new work on display throughout July and August. Below is Shinme Saku, (17” x 22”), £1,250.

GOLDMARK GALLERY, UPPINGHAM

14, Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ, Call 1572 821424 or see www.goldmarkart.com

GALLERY STAMFORD

Maiden Lane, Stamford PE9 2AZ. Call 01780 753737 or see www.gallerystamford.co.uk

Gallery Stamford will host a new exhibition of work by Julia Whitehead, running in July, until 3rd August. The Gallery has been established since 1993 and offers bespoke framing along with a diverse range of both original artworks and prints.

Based at Witham on the Hill, artist Julia has a particular interest in human crowds and moving figures.

Using a variety of photographic reference material collected on regular trips to London and other towns and cities, plus her own imagination, Julia captures impressionistic figurative crowd scenes and the spirit of society on the move.

Shown above is Amalphi, an original oil, 40 x 40, £450, the exhibition runs throughout July and until 3rd August.

ROBERT FOGELL FINE ART

Northampton & Rutland Open Studios, 1st­22nd Sept, Stamford Arts Centre

Robert has developed his artistic practice over many years in conjunction with curation and teaching art and design.

He has been represented by The Nine British Art, Pall Mall London, since 2016.

Robert began his career training as a sculpture conservator working for clients including English Heritage, Chatsworth House, Government Art Collection and many museums and churches across the UK His work explores form, geometry and symmetry sculptural works utilising a combination of bronze, steel, stone and mixed media.

Robert Fogell will participate in Northampton and Rutland Open Studios (NROS) from 1st­22nd September at Stamford Arts Centre. His studio is based at Kennel Yard, Burghley House, Stamford, PE9 3JY. Call 07519 247833 or see www.robfogell.co.uk.

Specialising in contemporary art and ceramics, Goldmark Gallery has been an ambassador for art in Uppingham for over 50 years and holds over 50,000 items in stock. From 27th July, ‘The Unseen Works of Phil Rogers’ will be on show at the gallery, including 200 previously examples created by one of the giants of British ceramics.

What’s On

July and August

The Stamford Shakespeare Company

Enjoy a trio of theatrical treats at Tolethorpe this summer as July & August sees audience favourite A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set in the Edwardian era, until Saturday 27th July. Also in summer, enjoy Farquar’s The Recruiting Officer, from 1st-17th August. And then, from 2nd July to 20th August, Sense & Sensibility takes place with Regency-era romance from the Dashwood Sisters.

Enjoy outdoor theatre under a weatherproof auditorium, take along a picnic or enjoy The Fig Tree restaurant, new for 2024.

Call 01780 917240 or see www.tolethorpe.co.uk.

Cirquoise at Gates Garden

From 26th July – 11th August Gates Garden Centre

Bring the whole family to the big top at Gates this summer and be amazed and astounded by the skills of Cirquoise, a new style family circus with all the acts we love, from laughter-filled clowns to death-defying acrobatics, breathtaking jugglers, and awesome contortionists. Enjoy candyfloss, popcorn, doughnuts, slush and drinks ringside.

Hour­long shows run from 11am, 2pm and 4:30pm, Gates Garden Centre. Tickets are £8 to £10. See gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

Monday 12th AugustSaturday 17th August

An Officer and A Gentleman

Luke Baker and Georgia Lennon take on the roles made famous by Richard Gere and Deborah Winger in the 1982 romantic drama. This time around though the story is set to a smash-hit soundtrack featuring the songs of Madonna, Bon Jovi, Cyndi Lauper, Blondie... and of course, it culminates with Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes’ (Love Lift Us) Up Where We Belong

Tickets from £10­£52. Curve Theatre, LE1 1SB, call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

Friday 16th August, Saturday 17th August, Sunday 18th August Outdoor Theatre

A trio of outdoor performances performed by Illyria in Leicester:

Friday 16th August 2024

Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Gondoliers.

Saturday 17th August: The Adventures of Doctor Dolittle.

Sunday 18th August: The Hound of the Baskervilles. Take along a picnic, a blanket and some chairs, gates from 6pm, bar available.

Adults £20, from 7pm, at De Montfort Hall, Leicester, LE1 7RU. Call 0116 233 3111 or see www.demontforthall.co.uk.

Send your press releases and events to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

Saturday 24th AugustMonday 26th August

Burghley Summer Fine Food Market

Shop for and enjoy local produce in the stunning surroundings of the Chestnut & Stable Courtyards at Burghley House this August at the Summer Fine Food Market. Featuring a wide range of exhibitors including

dishes from around the world, handmade cheese, soft and alcoholic beverages, sweet treats and rare breed meat.

Admission to the market and parkland is free, with additional charges to enjoy the house, its gardens and the Hide & Secrets adventure playground.

Call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

Live at Kilworth

A carefully chosen and eclectic programme of the very best of British tribute acts at Kilworth House Hotel

Saturday 31st August

André Rieu: Power of Love

Live from his home town of Maastricht, André Rieu, ‘the King of the Waltz,’ presents a big screen spectacular.

Accompanied by his famous orchestra and a cast of hundreds André’s repertoire combines classical, musicals, pop and rock, set against the backdrop of the historic Vrijthof Square. Beautiful waltzes, tear-jerking ballads and unexpected chart hits, it’s a concert for the whole family to enjoy.

Stamford Arts Centre, live screened event from Maastricht, from 7pm, tickets £10­£15, call 01780 763203 or see stamfordartscentre.com.

Totally Tina: Wednesday 7th August

Simon & Garfunkel: Thursday 8th August

A Country Night in Nashville: Friday 9th August

The Carpenters Experience: Sat 10th August

Talon, To the Limit: Sunday 11th August

Abba Revival: Tues 13th, Wed 14th August

The Sound of Springsteen: Thu 15th August

Thursday 5th SeptemberSunday 8th September

The Defender Burghley Horse Trials 2024

The world’s greatest five-star FEI eventing competition will return to the parkland of Burghley House next month, with dressage, cross-country and showjumping rounds.

As well as the competition itself, there’s the opportunity to enjoy luxury shopping courtesy of 600 carefully chosen trade stands and the event’s food walk.

175,000 spectators will enjoy the event, which take place across 530 acres and features over 350 horses.

For advanced tickets, prices and for further details see www.burghley­horse.co.uk.

ELO Again: Friday 16th August

Lost in Music (disco): Saturday 17th August

Last Night of the Proms: Sun 18th August

Twist and Shout (1960s): Tues 20th August

Magic of Motown: Wednesday 21st August

The Bohemians (Queen): Friday 23rd August

Legend Live (Bob Marley): Sat 24th August

Live at Kilworth tickets £39­£45. Optional packages with dining and accommodation, see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk or call 01858 881939, Kilworth House Hotel, Leicestershire LE17 6JE.

BOWTHORPE PARK FARM

is a farmily farm in south lincolnshire, home to the UKs largest Girthed Oak Tree and farm shop selling Red Tractor farm assured beef pork & lamb all born & raised on our farm and hosts family friendly events throughout the year

Traditional slow maturing breeds, grass fed Lincoln Red Beef, Berkshire Pork, Jacob Lamb

Homemade ready meals, dry aged beef, deli counter, Local milk, fruit & veg, cake, ice cream and so much more

Dining Out

The Nevill Arms at Medbourne, Market Harborough

This month we’re enjoying a brilliant dining experience in a very pretty setting with a visit to Medbourne’s Nevill Arms. Expect pasture-to-plate traceability, dishes prepared with skill and flair, and wonderful outdoor dining provision for when the sun is shining

Words: Rob Davis.

Sometimes, you just can’t help feeling optimistic. Our visit to The Nevill Arms took place on a Friday afternoon. An enjoyable drive to the pub-restaurant, located in the village of Medbourne, took us past rolling fields, beyond Uppingham and through pretty ironstone villages on the way to Harborough.

The scenery alone was enough to lift the spirits, but it was also a really sunny day and the weekend before the beginning of the Euros tournament. England could, the tabloids assured us, go ‘all the way,’ not that you’d bet your life savings on that as we’re all too familiar with our national reputation for failing spectacularly at penalties.

If I was a betting man, I’d have felt more comfortable predicting that The Nevill Arms was going to be a belter of a pub restaurant, absolutely perfect for summer.

The place is part of The Three Goats Group, and we’re already familiar with two of their other premises, namely No. 23 in Uppingham – a spectacularly good Mediterranean inspired kitchen, bar and terrace – and Great Bowden’s really smashing dining pub, The Red Lion.

The company also owns Great Easton’s Sun Inn and its rustic wedding venue, Castle View, near Rockingham. Our anticipation of good things was immediately validated by The Nevill Arms’s setting.

The pub restaurant nestles by Medbourne Brook, one of the little tributaries of the Welland, and after parking up, you cross the little timber bridge and go past the front terrace towards the pub, which looks truly lovely when the late-afternoon sunshine is giving its ironstone frontage a nice warm glow. Above the door, written in 19th century script, is the Grade II listed pub’s name and confirmation of the date it was rebuilt, after a fire.

The eponymous country estate of Nevill Holt dates back to the 13th century and in 2000 it was purchased by opera patron, businessman and philanthropist David Ross who brought an annual programme of live opera to the area.

The Nevill Arms was purchased by The Three Goats Group in 2021 and treated to a comprehensive transformation courtesy of interior designer Carrie Cripps who took her inspiration from Chelsea’s Beaverbrook Town House.

The dark inky tones of Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue are lifted by whimsical woodland wallpaper in the reception, thoughtfully considered lighting and little pops of burnt orange, for instance on the scatter cushions in the restaurant’s banquettes and the leather sofas next to the inglenook fireplace in the bar... it’s all very lovely and welcoming!

The Nevill Arms’s beauty isn’t superficial either. Its offering of quality dining is really impressive.

Opposite: Red mullet with fennel, Jersey Royals, broad beans and tomato butter sauce, £24.

The Nevill Arms, Medbourne

STARTERS

House cured local trout with goats curd, beetroot ketchup, pickled fennel and blood orange, £11.

Half shell Fowey scallops with black pudding and orange in vanilla & cardamon sauce, £14.

Belted Galloway beef carpaccio with hot honey cured egg yolk, ponzu dressing, pickled ginger, and wasabi emulsion, £12.

Leek, potato and lovage soup with thyme croutons and crème fraiche, £8.

MAIN COURSES

Duck leg confit with peas a la Francoise, pancetta, chervil, lettuce, radish, duck-fat roast potatoes, £24.

8oz Belted Galloway ribeye steak with Bordelaise sauce, confit tomato, parsley breaded flat mushroom, french fries and house salad, £34.

Great Easton lamb loin with wild garlic sauce, dauphinoise potato, purple sprouting broccoli, £26.

Belted Galloway beef burger with grilled onion, smoked bacon, Emmental cheese, burger sauce, house salad & french fries, £21.

DESSERTS

Honey vanilla parfait with poached rhubarb, and white chocolate crumb, £9.

Earl Grey tea sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and Madagascan vanilla ice cream, £9.

Chocolate brownie with whipped mascarpone, bee pollen, Madagascan vanilla ice cream, £9.

NB: Sample menu and featured dishes, subject to availability and change.

Dining Out

Group Executive Chef Chris’s remit was maintaining and building upon a reputation for exceptional dishes

Group Executive Chef Chris Bolan is this month celebrating his first anniversary with the company, having returned to his native Leicestershire with his young family after spending a number of years working in London, including a decade at Clapham’s Michelin-starred restaurant Trinity where he was Head Chef.

Already familiar with the pub, Chris had the remit of maintaining and building upon its reputation for offering exceptional dishes, though he’s too modest to express his talent.

“My approach is to source the best quality ingredients and treat them with care, respect and attention to detail. Even if the components in a dish are relatively humble, you can still produce the ‘wow’ factor. Ultimately, it’s not about the chef, it’s about the food. As a chef, I’m really just a middleman between the ingredients and the guests.

“Our vision is to produce as much of what we serve as we can, but to partner with the best (preferably local) suppliers who share our values to source the items we can’t produce.”

The Nevill Arms is supplied by its own 160acre farm at Great Easton and its herd of

entirely grass-fed Belted Galloways, as well as 100 Suffolk Cross Cheviot lambs, whilst a couple of Oxford Sandy Black pigs are hanging in the fridge.

The Nevill Arms is self-sufficient in beef and lamb – not quite in pork – and butchering is done both by Gwilym Owen’s team at Launde Farm Foods, then by the team in the kitchen.

The pub restaurant is also in the process of creating its own kitchen garden to supplement its herb garden in the courtyard, where a Josper grill and bar provides summer diners with al fresco dining options from a quality burger to grilled plaice with Jersey Royals and asparagus, or a pulled lamb dish with charred flatbreads, Tzatziki and feta, to be enjoyed in the sunshine.

Fish is purchased directly from boats – not from a fish market – with artisanal suppliers preferred, such as the Fowey-based family who land the mussels used to create our moules marinière starter, a faithful interpretation of a French bistro favourite with its traditional white wine, garlic, shallot and cream sauce.

Above: Fowey moules marinière, white wine, garlic, shallot and cream, £10/starter, £21/main. Opposite: Cured local trout with blood orange, almond and watercress, £11. Belted Galloway beef carpaccio with black garlic mayonnaise, parmesan, artichoke and roasted pepper, £12,

Dining Out

Another ‘supplier’ of note is Max Woolnough, General Manager and keen fisherman who lands trout at local reservoirs which is then cured and used to create, for instance, our starter dish, with blood orange, almond and watercress. Other local suppliers include a villager and customer whose hives provide gooey honey, plus Hambleton Bakery, and Noel’s gelato.

It’s worth mentioning that Chris and the team also bake their own speciality bread and make the pub-restaurant’s own soft-serve ice creams and sorbets.

The restaurant’s wine list has been curated by Max and Ops Director Will Darby in conjunction with Berkmann Wine Cellars.

It would be remiss of us not to mention The Nevill Arms’s 10 bedrooms, too. Each one is individually decorated and absolutely beautiful, with lovely little touches like

Opposite: Fresh mint ice cream with warm chocolate brownie, £9. Chocolate delice, amaretto syllabub, berry compote, £9.

homemade hedgerow gin and freshly-baked biscuits, plus a handwritten welcome note for each guest. Even locals take advantage of the rooms, enjoying dinner followed by an overnight stay rather than getting a ride home at the end of the night.

Director Raj Uppal is rightly proud of the place and says: “We attract visitors from far and wide, but The Nevill Arms is also very much a hub of village life – the centre of the community for those who live locally, even if they just want to meet a friend for a drink or a quick bite to eat on a midweek evening.

“Above all, we want to offer world-class food, facilities and service, while staying true to traditional pub and country hotel values, such as real fires and a warm welcome for muddy paws in the bar.”

In respect of the above, the team really have exceeded that brief. The Nevill Arms really is a masterclass in what a quality pub restaurant should be. It looks stunning, the welcome is warm... and the food is terrific!

The Nevill Arms Medbourne, Uppingham

The Pitch: “Set in the picturesque village of Medbourne, in the heart of the beautiful Welland Valley. The Nevill Arms is an old stable yard and coaching inn which has undergone a major refurbishment whilst still keeping its original character.”

Opening Hours:

Open seven days for food, Breakfast until 10.30am, lunch from 12 noon, dinner from 6pm. Josper Bar & Grill 12 noon to 8pm Friday­Sundays in summer.

The Nevill Arms, Medbourne, Market Harborough LE16 8EE Call 01858 565288 or see www.nevillarms.co.uk.

Image: Holmes PR Photography.

Elizabeth Tower whisky selected by Sir Lindsey Hoyle

Since Sir Bernard Weatherill in the 1980s, the Speaker of the House of Commons has put their name to a ‘house’ whisky. The only time alcohol can be consumed in the Commons is by a Chancellor as they delivering their budget... although recent chancellors have stuck to water. Sir Lindsey Hoyle selected a Glen Moray single malt (£45, right), but he also offers a boxed limited edition 35­year old single grain which marks the restoration of the Elizabeth Tower in 2022 Just 334 bottles were made! £550 (1­100/334)/ 70cl / 46%.

The Wine Cellar

Order! Order! Order some of these! If General Election fever is enough to drive you to drink, we’ve ‘house’ wines and spirits from the Palace of Westminster... ideal if you’re an MP with something to celebrate!

Outstanding 2016 claret from Chateau Rouquette La Tour aux Palombe, Cab Sav/Merlot/Cab Franc, red berries and good structure, £18 / 70cl / 14% ABV.

Light­bodied white produced from 100% Sauvignon Blanc with lime, lemon and grapefruit on the palate and a long, lively finish, £15 / 70cl / 11.5% ABV.

House of Lords Champagne rosé: Pinot Noir/Pinot Meunier/Chardonnay grapes, red berries and grapefruit with orange, £39 / 70cl / £12.5% ABV.

Wine of the Month

At the time of writing, the 2024 General Election is yet to take place, so we’ve no idea who will be celebrating (or drowning their sorrows). For the victor, the spoils... and perhaps a glass of this fizz: the House of Commons’ house sparkling wine from Digby Fine English in Arundel, Sussex. Chalky soils yield green apple fruit & biscuit flavours. And incidentally, it’s named after Sir Kenelm Digby, 17th century philosopher and pirate (!) inventor of the modern wine bottle! £35 / 70cl / 12%.

Lord of the Gins

House of Lords Gin created by small Cornish distillery

Margaret Thatcher’s favourite drink was a Bell’s blended whisky. David Cameron favoured bitter, and Gordon Brown preferred Champagne. Rishi Sunak is teetotal, but Tony Blair said in his memoirs that he liked a G&T before dinner.

The House of Lords’ gin, is made by Cornwall’s Rosemullion Distillery and uses coriander and angelica botanicals, £45 / 70cl.

Featured wines and spirits available by mail order from the Houses of Parliament shop, see www.shop.parliament.uk or call 020 7219 3890.

‘House’ Wines: All available in the House of Lords...

Welcome Home

Estate A Handsome Country

A grand and substantial white stucco-fronted country property with no fewer than 20 bedrooms and eight reception rooms, currently seeking new custodians

Words: Rob Davis.

In 1704, Sir Isaac Newton published the follow-up to Principia, in which he defined his three universal laws of motion. But Opticks was instead concerned with light, specifically the theory that light is composed of particles and may be split into constituent colours by means of dispersion.

Newton’s family home was not far from Colston Bassett, where in the same year, Edward Golding was building a new home on the site of a manor awarded to the Bassett family by William the Conqueror.

A Royalist during the civil war, Edward’s brother, Colonel Francis Hacker had misjudged the likely outcome of the turmoil and signed King Charles I’s death warrant, earning a hanging, drawing and quartering in return for his rash assessment of 17th century winds of change.

Edward inherited the Manor of Colston Bassett and built the present property in 1704, landscaping the estate, planting hundred of trees and enjoying the property for the next 100 years. The estate then passed to the Martin family who owned Colston Bassett Hall until 1864, to the Le Marchant Family, then to the Knowles Family and eventually to its current owners, custodians of the property for the past 30 years or so.

Reception rooms include the 50ft drawing room with its bespoke handcrafted plasterwork..

320 years after the property was built, a new chapter in the property’s history is about to begin, with the currently owners putting Colston Bassett Hall onto the market, seeking new custodians.

To say that Colston Bassett Hall is vast would be somewhat of an understatement. Set in 12 acres of parkland, the Hall offers 25,000sq ft of accommodation, at least eight reception rooms and 20 bedrooms.

Those reception rooms currently include a 50ft drawing room with handmade plasterwork six sash windows on two south-facing aspects, and two fireplaces. Other principal reception rooms include a formal dining room, ballroom, and sitting room, plus a morning room and orangery, then the Hall’s billiards room and a breakfast room too.

Broaden your definition of what constitutes a reception room a little, and there’s a breakfast kitchen with dining table, a couple of studies and a large, impressive reception hall.

In addition to the main kitchen, there’s a scullery, and an annexe kitchen, as well as four storerooms. Below ground, the Hall also benefits from cellars underneath the whole footprint of the property, a total of 22 individual cellar areas in fact.

Bedrooms are arranged across the two upper floors with the first floor providing nine bedrooms, an en suite and walk-in wardrobe to the master suite, and four further en suites. The second floor provides 11 further bedrooms, bathroom plus a selfcontained apartment for live-in housekeepers or similar.

For such a large property it’s rather surprising that Colston Bassett Hall has remained a private residence. With its scale, though, comes scope for making changes to its layout. Lose a few of the second floor bedrooms, for example, and those cellars could easily be reimagined as a wellness area, with indoor pool or gym.

The Hall also has great potential for those seeking to establish a country house hotel, wedding venue or a spa.

Under the custodianship of the Le Marchant family in the mid-19th century, the property was remodelled to provide its current stucco façade and to create the property’s orangery.

The grounds also feature a southfacing terrace with a formal pavilion terrace leading down to a swimming pool, tennis courts and large expanse

Welcome Home

of lawn ideal for conversion to accommodation for horses. The Hall is approached by its own long driveway approach through formal lawns with mature specimen trees.

Currently seeking new custodians, Colston Bassett Hall is graceful, substantial and offers much in the way of adaptability whether is next owners are seeking to retain the property as a private residence or to create a hotel or similar on the site.

Vernon Moore, founder of Country & Equestrian and Moores Estate Agents in Rutland is marketing the property and says: “Colston Bassett Hall really is a handsome house in a great location. Its next custodians will no doubt enjoy putting their own mark on the property and ushering in a very new chapter for a unique estate.”

Colston Bassett Hall, Newark

Location: Lincolnshire/ Nottinghamshire border, Newark 16 miles.

Provenance: Grade II listed country home created in 1704 with 1860s alterations. Set in 12 acres, with swimming pool and tennis courts.

Rooms: 20 bedrooms and at least eight reception rooms plus studies etc.

Guide Price: £3,950,000.

Find Out More: Country & Equestrian by Moores Estate Agents, Oakham, Rutland. Call 01572 757979 or see mooresestateagents.com.

6 MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH 01572 823389

www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd Sarah Harding Interiors (@sarahhardinginteriorsltd)

Image courtesy of Ian Sanderson

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Home from Home

Property finder and buyer Kate Vincent from Garrington discusses some of the matters people should consider when buying a second home.

As matters stand, buying a ‘home from home’ comes with two major advantages. Firstly, and most obviously, is the pleasure of having somewhere to escape normal life and secondly, is its potential as a sound investment.

Whilst Stamford and Rutland are not what most people would think of as typical holiday retreat locations, there is a healthy demand in some niche areas for buyers looking for a second home. These include Uppingham and Oakham where parents of boarders sometimes like to own a pied à terre, villages close to the recreational facilities at Rutland Water, holiday lets in Stamford and recently, the new swanky Woolfox development.

Buying as an investment

Whilst there are no guarantees that property prices will rise, as a long-term investment, history suggests that it is one of the soundest. Over the last few years, the government has reduced tax incentives associated with Buyto-Let properties diminishing their appeal to ‘hobby’ landlords, but furnished holiday homes could have rental income offset by many of the associated costs thus improving the tax position. However, the furnished holiday lettings tax regime will be abolished from April 2025 (if not sooner by the new government) so keep an eye on any imminent changes that may concern you.

So, if you are interested in buying an additional home what are practical matters that should be taken into consideration?

Lockup and Leave

The very nature of this type of property is that it is not being inhabited continually throughout the year, so it is important to consider matters such as security and maintenance whilst left empty. Indeed, unless you have someone close by who can regularly visit and maintain the property, you should choose somewhere with a low maintenance garden, perhaps add an alarm system and consider the potential costs of major renovations such as the roof or windows. It is also advisable to purchase a specialist insurance policy which recognises the property will be left empty more than a standard home and accommodates your requirements if the property is to be let.

Location

Of course, foreign buyers will inevitably have to travel long distances to visit their ‘home from home’ but for UK buyers it is worth considering travel times. Be clear (and honest with yourself!) on how far you are willing to travel to regularly visit the property because if it is too long, particularly after the novelty has worn off, the appeal of visiting will quickly diminish. Likewise, do think about the location of the property in relation to the local

area – are there shops, a pub, restaurant, and recreational facilities within easy reach? Are you happy to drive to these or would you prefer to abandon the car whilst staying in your retreat? How near are neighbours and are you used to living in this proximity? Is the bandwidth adequate for home-working?

What is a good buy?

If your main home is outside the area, you may not really understand the local property market or have connections to local tradespeople. A local property finder will advise a property buyer on suitable areas, help them weigh up their priorities and match these with potential homes. They can also introduce you to local suppliers and people who can help you feel more settled in your ‘home from home’.

If you would value some expert advice on buying property in Stamford or Rutland, Garrington offer a commitment free meeting. Please get in touch: Tel. 01780 408377. Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

Kate Vincent Garrington

1. Pacific Blue by Royal Doulton, £230 for 16-piece dinner set comprising 4 x 28.5cm dinner plates, 23.5cm side plates, 15cm cereal bowls, mugs, 01782 282651, www.royaldoulton.com.

2. Lobster Jug collection, by Rick Stein, £82.50/half pint, two pint, four pint, 01841 556077, www.rickstein.com.

3. Blue Haze by Denby, 12-piece set to include 4 x 26cm dinner plate, 17cm side plate, 17cm cereal bowl, 01773 740700, www.denbypottery.com.

4. Spode Steccato cereal bowl 19cm £20, side plate 18cm £17.60, Blue Italian side plate 20cm £14.45, Steccato dinner plate 28cm, £20, 01782 743 427, www.spode.co.uk.

5. Le Creuset Teapot chambray £58, 0800 373 792.

7. Portmerion Merion mugs, blue and white stripes £12.50/ea, 01782 743 427, www.portmeirion.co.uk.

8. Denby Kiln Blue collection, e.g.: 12-piece set to include 4 x 26cm dinner plate, 17cm side plate, 15cm cereal bowl, 01773 740700, www.denbypottery.com.

9. Royal Doulton 1815 side plate, 24cm £14/ea, 01782 282651, www.royaldoulton.com.

10. Le Creuset Chambray, e.g.: 12-piece set to include 4 x 27cm dinner plate, 22cm bowl, 22cm side plate, 0800 373 792, www.lecreuset.co.uk.

11. White Company Alnwick table runner in blue/white, £50, 020 3758 9222, www.thewhitecompany.com.

12. Spode Steccato mug, narrow/wide stripe, £18.40/ea, 01782 743 427, www.spode.co.uk.

HUNTERS INTERIORS HUNTERS INTERIORS

Super Ceramic Services Ltd

Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you

Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you

The Largest Selection of Wall & Floor Tiles in Rutland

The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD

The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD

SERVICES

Grouts and Accessories

Visit our showroom 01780 757946

Visit our showroom 01780 757946

See our website www.huntersinteriors.co.uk

See our website www.huntersinteriors.co.uk

Established since 1984, We celebrate our 40th year this year. Visit our showroom for ideas and experienced advice. Suppliers of tiles, adhesive, grout, tools and accessories, plus fitting service with free estimates. We also serve the construction industry with competitive trade prices. 01572 821119 OPEN MON-FRI 9am-4:30pm www.superceramicservices.com superceramicservices@live.co.uk

40 North Street East, Uppingham LE15 9QL

Wall & Floor Tiling

Suppliers of Porcelanosa, Verona, Ca’Pietra, Johnsons, RAK etc

Fortune Favours the

BUILD

If you’re keen to embark on the creation of your new home, partnering with an expert is wise. Here’s everything you wanted to know about working with a professional to bring your dream to fruition

Words: Rob Davis.

Nothing could be better than designing and building your own home. But neither could anything be more expensive, stressful and time-consuming. As the expression goes, fortune favours the bold, so even if you’ve never embarked on your own self-build or custom-build project, there’s more support out there than ever before if you’re seeking to create a property built to your exact specification.

Last year 204,530 dwellings were completed in the UK. 63,662 individuals joined their local council’s self-build register, but planning permission for only 6,374 serviced plots was granted for self-built and custom-build purposes.

Another figure states that of all the self-build homes created in the UK each year, only 10% or so are built with the direct involvement of the property’s owner. The distinction between self-build and custombuild is that in the case of the former, an individual directly organises the design and construction of their home, whether completing the construction on a DIY basis or employing a builder.

A custom-build home, meanwhile, sees an individual or a group working with a developer to deliver one or more homes, possibly with that developer securing a plot and arranging finance.

Both are subject to 2015’s Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Act, which also required local authorities to establish a register of interest comprising those who wish to express an interest in beginning a self-build or custom-build project.

Finding a plot

There are three types of plots; serviced plots, with infrastructure like roads and access to services already in place, i.e.: in a ‘ready to build’ state. A permissioned plot, meanwhile, lacks those services but has valid planning consent.

Otherwise, land is simply amenity land without any viability for development. Sources include private sellers, bidding at auction and negotiating through an estate agent.

Local authorities are required to maintain registers of brownfield sites suitable for residential development, and there are also dedicated websites like www.plotfinder.net.

In addition to obtaining planning permission and complying with building regulations, some projects will require additional consents, not least among which are those projects which are in a conservation area or those requiring the modification of adjacent listed buildings. Some other issues are unsurmountable, e.g.: sites with covenants or private rights, so approach such situations with caution.

Designing your project

Architects are not just responsible for giving a visual impression of your project, they also provide a basis for a planning permission submission and they allow you to calculate the costs of a project. An architect will typically produce three sets of drawings if they work on a project to its ultimate conclusion. Their initial sketch is a concept.

Once approved by the client, this is developed into drawings which are submitted for planning permission indicating, for instance, materials, rooms and specs. These two stages constitute about 40% of an architect’s fees. These developed plans then allow for the creation of much more technical working drawings, the use of which allows materials to be ordered and creates millimetre-accurate measurements. This accounts for another 30% of their fee.

Finally, an architect can produce a detailed specification and tender allowing you to approve your tradesperson or main contractor. This accounts for about 15% of an architect’s overall fee. And finally, if your architect manages the build too, about 15% of their fee will cover time spent on site, liaising with trades and contractors.

Alternative projects

The TV series Grand Designs has 20 seasons under its belt. Back when the series was created each run featured a ‘token’ eco-home, but as the technologies have proliferated, the term is now all but redundant and most new projects tend to incorporate some features to some degree. A full discussion with a renewable energy professional can help to clarify the best technology to incorporate into your build.

Housebuilding

Alternative materials to conventional brick/stone construction include timber-framed dwellings, and those using SIPs (superinsulated panels) which can be partly-fabricated off site then installed in situ, or Huf Haus-style properties which are prefabricated ready for assembly.

In the case of Huf Haus, the properties have a cult following, although many of the designs on offer are standardised, all tend to be designed in the same style with lots of glass. Only 20 or so Huf Haus properties are created in the UK each year, with costs estimated at £300£350/ft2.

Appointing a professional

Project managing your own main contractor and tradespeople if you’re a novice is a terrible idea. Hence a better option for anyone embarking on a project with a lack of experience or technical insight would be pursuing a Custom Build route with a local building contractor or developer whose skill set includes not only technical knowledge of construction but a bulging contacts book with

associated trades in plumbing, electrical work, plastering, decoration, and so on. Building contractors and developers also have the talent of being able to address challenges proactively as the building progresses, advising for instance on the implications of materials that aren’t delivered quite on time, or what happens when the weather interrupts the build. Furthermore, experience of implications on budgets means your building contractor or developer is a key ally in ensuring your budget remains on track.

Staying on track

If budget is one challenge, then time scales are another peril of the self-build journey, again, one that a good developer or building contractor can help you to manage and mitigate where necessary.

As a very rough guide, the average time scale purely for the construction of a property is 12 months. That’s assuming the plot has been acquired, designs have completed by your architect and planning permission has been granted, with a main contractor appointed – though ensuring your main contractor or developer is

Building contractors and developers have the talent of being able to address challenges proactively as the building progresses, from materials that aren’t delivered quite on time, to the weather interrupting the build

already familiar with the project before this stage is typical. Firstly a site is cleared and pegged-out (i.e.: the perimeters defines as per your architect’s technical drawings). Once completed foundations can be dug out, and blockwork/concrete footings installed.

At this stage services may be taken to the property ready for connection to the property itself at the first fix stage. Months two and three see the first and upper floors being constructed, with a roof structure created and an aim of making the build weatherproof by month four or five. Around the halfway mark, internal walls are constructed, first fix electrics and plumbing are installed and plastering begins. Windows and doors can be installed, ready for fixtures (e.g.: kitchens, bathrooms) to be made from about nine months. Snagging and decorating takes at least a month, ready for sign-off of the property, assuming your developer is providing a turnkey service.

No two projects are the same

As the expression states, it’d be boring if we were all the same... but it would certainly help to provide consistent information for budgeting, timescales and so on though. Opposite, we’ve broken down the likely cost of construction for a typical property of around £312,000... the problem is, there’s no such thing as a typical property.

That’s another reason to seek out a developer or key contractor who can offer guidance tailored to your project, and bring their technical expertise and their experience to your build, saving a good deal of stress, and saving both time and money too.

Names to know:

David Greaves Buildings & Construction: Offering the full range of landscaping, building and renovation works, 01664 823588, www.davidgreavesdesign.co.uk.

Natural Structures: Designing and building bespoke new build properties using timber­framed construction methods. 01858 545518, www.natural­structures.co.uk.

Harris McCormack Architects: RIBA chartered architectural practice with an established reputation for high quality, design led domestic and commercial projects. 01780 433334, www.harrismccormack.co.uk.

Phi Architectural Design: Design­led practice dedicated to producing high­quality architecture, from a large scale residential scheme to a bespoke private home. 07809 575 090, www.phiarchitecturaldesign.com.

Rutland Developments: Personal and bespoke building service from design though to completion on new builds and developments, renovations and extensions. 07557 772798, www.rutland­development.com.

How much should I budget?

Managing the Finances

n The average budget for creating a self­build property including plot (i.e.: not a custom build) property in the UK is £479,578.

n The average budget for a plot is £253,000, and land survey costs are typically £500­£1,500.

n Self­building a property necessitates and average budget of £312,000, excluding furnishings, including kitchen/bathrooms.

n In England, the fee for an outline planning application is £462 for each dwelling. The cost of submitting a full planning permission application in England is £624.

n Architects in the UK typically charge between 3% and 15% of the total construction costs. However, this varies depending on factors including their level of involvement, the complexity of the project and the architect's experience. Some architects may also offer a fixed fee or hourly rate. (Source: Checkatrade).

n Another one way to measure a potential cost is to look at a breakdown per square metre. Build costs range from £1,750£3,500/m2 on average (ex VAT). DIY self­builders can reduce this by 40­50%. (Source: Homebuilding & Renovating).

Kitchens by Lewis & Hill

Kitchens Fine Handmade

The transformation by Lewis & Hill of a kitchen in an Edwardian property has seen dark tones introduced and a ‘modern country kitchen’ style emerge... it’s an increasingly popular look in the area says Simon Lewis

Go all in. That’s Simon Lewis’s advice for anyone seeking to pursue the latest look for their kitchen. The use of light cabinetry in a kitchen will continue of course, but an increasing number of people are approaching Lewis & Hill seeking to introduce darker, more dramatic colours in their home.

“This particular property was an Edwardian end of terrace town house for a family who entertain frequently and enjoy cooking. It’s not a vast space, which might automatically compel you to go for the lightest tones available,” says Simon.

“But in fact, with some considered design there’s no reason you can’t achieve exactly the look that this family were seeking; a contemporary country kitchen with modern colours and drama, plus lots of technology and tactile elements built in too.”

Founded in 2011 by Simon Lewis & Gordon Hill, the company specialises in fine handmade kitchens and bespoke interiors, and the 13-strong team worked collaboratively with the property’s owners to bring to fruition their vision for the kitchen, with full design and project management.

The company created handmade cabinetry from accoya and tulip wood with a classic in-frame shaker profile and classic beaded detail. The kitchen was hand-painted in Farrow & Ball’s Studio Green and paired with work surfaces in König Quartz engineered stone in a Portofino colourway, which is a dark surface with changing hues of rich cherry and chocolate.

Appliances including built-in cooking equipment from Fisher & Paykel, including combination and conventional ovens and an induction hob plus a built-in dishwasher from Miele and boiling water tap by Quooker

The island features a stained oak work surface to match the stained solid oak flooring whilst the cabinetry was accented with tactile ironmongery from Henkel & Henkel in a lovely brushed brass finish.

‘The idea was to replicate the intimacy of a Victorian parlour for evening dining, but to introduce a sense of luxury,” says Simon.

“The client’s choice of accent lighting supplemented our LED in-cabinetry lighting and downlighters which provide good task lighting when cooking, so despite the lovely deep dark tones, it’s still a surprisingly easy kitchen in which to live and work.”

“The sitting room area features matching drinks cabinets with antique glass mirrors and LED lighting, as well as a space for formal dining, supplementing the breakfast bar seating.”

“It’s a dramatic looking room but light and stylish in the day, with a surprising amount of natural light, too, from the window.”

“The clients were great to work with, sharing our vision for a collaborative and bold design that would prove cohesive. And because our approach to good design and bespoke craftsmanship are both intrinsically linked, we also ensure that quality and longevity are

Kitchens by Lewis & Hill

built-in to everything we make, from using quality timbers – accoya, tulip, oak, walnut –to construction that is screwed, dowelled and then glued cabinetry for durability or traditional mortice and tenon joints.”

“With materials like Silestone, Caesarstone or granite surfaces and appliances from brands like Sub Zero, Wolf, Lacanche and Gaggenau, plus premium brightware – taps and handles – from names like Perrin & Rowe and Armac Martin for example, every aspect of our work from common touchpoints to the hidden bits are engineered to last.”

Skilled cabinet makers and design specialists, Lewis & Hill are based at their 6,000ft2 premises in Rearsby and provide kitchens, bedrooms, dressing rooms and freestanding furniture for clients with design and full project management, and a free, no obligation initial consultation about your project.

SPRAY KITCHEN ELITE

2024 see’s our 28th year in business, refurbishing and painting kitchens on a nationwide basis.

What started out as hand painting kitchens in the 1990’s, has progressed to a much greater business, offering all aspects of the kitchen refurbishment services.

As well as removing kitchens to prepare and paint in our factory, we offer our clients a full repair service as well as the manufacture of damaged items to match the originals. We also have our very own range of hardware which covers contemporary ranges in Nickel, Chrome, Brass and Copper too.

Last year we had the pleasure of announcing our partnership with a natural stone supplier who manufacture and fit new worktops, and also for those clients seeking an alternative, a product called Corian – amazing durability, non-porous and seamless fitting!

This year will see us continuing to build on our business, refurbishing and painting more furniture and kitchens.

Trends and colours change, and we like to be able assist our clients with up-to-date ideas and examples of how they improve their kitchens at a fraction of the cost of a replacement.

01780 756666

enquiries@qks-ltd.co.uk qks-ltd.co.uk

In harmony with the Hornbeams

A magnificent old Hornbeam tree in the client’s garden was the inspiration for Robert Johnson Garden Design’s recent project in Ketton. Layered structural interest at different heights and evergreen hedging creates an architectural backdrop against which a modern formal planting scheme can thrive

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Howard Rice.

Garden Design

London College of Garden Design graduate, Robert Johnson talks us through his latest project, the creation of a family-friendly garden with a formal planting scheme near Ketton...

Horseshoes are rather prevalent in this area. Oakham Castle has 240 of them, for example. And a horseshoe-shaped lawn was one of the starting points for a beautifully designed garden, conceived and constructed in Ketton by Stamford’s Robert Johnson Garden Design and built by Alfresco Landscaping, based in Barnack.

“I approached the owners of the property when I was nearing completion of my Garden Design Diploma course at the London College of Garden Design, based at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew as I wanted to use their site as a garden design case study.” says Robert.

“The south-facing site is adjacent to a handsome stone property built in the 18th century. The family have young children and a dog, so whilst they were seeking a formal theme, it also needed to be family-friendly and incorporate an area for games of cricket and football.”

“The site also has a slope to it and we wanted to retain a few of the existing features, such as the raised beds and greenhouse. The biggest consideration, though, was the protection of the large hornbeam tree – and its roots – adjacent to the house.”

Robert submitted his design and achieved his qualification... but the couple were so pleased with the proposed scheme that they kept the plans and having completed the renovation of the property itself, asked Robert to return and carry out the project, albeit with a few tweaks, refining the design to make it a little more formal.

“There were two main phases of the project,” says Robert. “Phase one focused on the existing garden to the side of the property with formal lawns, vegetable plots and a wild flower meadow. Phase two looked at the grand rear aspect of the house with a large

Garden Design

terrace, facing an incredible vista across the valley and gravel pathways from the driveway entrance. Instead of fighting the geography, I utilised the slope to introduce terraces with two sets of steps that repurpose the original period coping stones with their lovely established look.”

“The property had a terrace area with existing Yorkstone paving, which had a lovely established patina, so we wanted to retain these and use them to create the new terrace with a new complementary path of Sandstone setts next to it.”

“There were also 35 pleached hornbeam trees in the existing garden which we wanted to retain but move to new locations, so we also used a machine to scoop these out and successfully relocate them. We retained the existing greenhouse and raised beds which helped shape the design overall. Adjacent to

the new kitchen garden, we created a serpentine path which meanders it’s way through a wildflower meadow dotted with edible and ornamental apple trees.”

“For the children in the family, I made sure there was a sizeable area of lawn for games, adjacent to the main lawn.”

“The formality of the latter was enhanced with linear hedging and architectural planting in a predominantly white and purple colour scheme.”

“Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ is a woodland sage which is ideal for attracting pollinators, whilst the hydrangeas provide late summer interest and evergreens like Ilex crenata and buxus ensure year-round structure throughout the garden.”

“I used Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’ trees in various forms throughout the garden,

standards as a focal point to the lawn, roof-form to provide shade within the main terrace and pleached for their architectural quality in the driveway entrance.”

“The aim was to open the view and maximise the effect of the planting. The lawn has been centred on the property’s new extension giving it a formal, symmetrical vista,” says Robert.

“A focal point of ornamental Pear trees has been added, beautifully illuminated at night, which gives the garden a wonderful feeling after dusk. The clients are thrilled and it’s been a joy to work with them collaboratively to bring the project to fruition!”

Robert Johnson is based in Stamford and is available to discuss your garden design projects, for a free, no obligation chat about your project, call 07730 510047, or see robertjohnsongardendesign.com

At Stamford Domes we believe that function should always be combined with beauty. Our domes allow you to make the most of your existing garden and create a space which is uniquely you. They offer the perfect setting for a meal and drinks in the garden with friends, for a romantic glass of wine with a loved one or even some time alone simply reading a book.

Fully customisable in size, appearance and function. The nature of the domes construction means that each individual panel can be selected by the client to be solid or clear, and can be constructed from a variety of materials. This allows the design to be tailored to suit a wide range of purposes; from stunning timber framed greenhouses to cosy snug spaces to curl up, outdoor social areas or bars, even saunas! Get in touch to find out how we can help you achieve your garden dreams.

Domes

www.stamforddomes.co.uk enquiries@stamforddomes.co.uk 01780 693979 / 07984 489956

Supporting Rural Communities

NFU Mutual Stamford office welcomed a new agent earlier this year in the form of Emma Westley. Committed to working with her colleagues to support local communities, Emma is keen to build great relationships with her clients and find the right solutions to suit their needs

NFU Mutual Stamford Agent Emma Westley is used to having supportive colleagues around her, but during our call, there was one particular colleague who deserves a special mention, cockapoo Molly was keeping Emma company as she works from home, setting aside an admin day to clear up all those bits and pieces that stack up if you don’t keep on top of them.

“It’s not my preferred activity, admin,” she says, “But the company’s OK! I’d prefer to be out and about though, getting to know clients and giving them the kind of proper meaningful face-to-face service getting to know clients and giving them the meaningful, face-to-face service that we know our customers value.”

NFU Mutual has its origin in the NFU itself, but the two remain completely separate organisations, with the Union established in 1908 to represent the farming sector, and NFU Mutual established two years later in order to provide insurance and financial products to all those in rural communities –it’s not just for farmers!

“I used to live in the suburbs close to a fairly large city, but when I gradually moved into a rural area I gained a new appreciation for what it means to live in a rural community,” says Emma. “It soon became apparent that villages and small communities all support and look after one another, so the NFU and NFU Mutual are both extensions of that.”

“I’ve been with the company for over seven years and have come to understand and appreciate how people work together, depend on each other and share core values that underpin a rural community.”

“The purpose of NFU Mutual is to support and protect those communities, helping them to be resilient in difficult times. Particularly with the proliferation of insurance being provided by online firms, the sector has become a price-led purchase.”

“The importance of insurance can be underestimated... until it’s really needed. Then, it becomes something that can help you overcome difficulties and protect your family, your livelihood and your business. I’ve been in the industry for 14 years now, and I’m so happy to be working with NFU Mutual because as a company we have a commitment to providing proper faceto-face appointments to build relationships.”

“NFU Mutual provides insurance cover such as home, contents, motor, smallholder, dog/cat and annual travel as well as protection for local landlords, businesses and farms. The company also offers a range of financial planning products from life cover, business protection, investment and pension products.”

“But in addition, we offer insurance for high value homes with our Bespoke policy to help ensure we can provide tailored support for high net worth individuals, including those with fine art, collections and valuables.”

“A proper consultation allows us the opportunity to help ensure a client is not over or under-insured and provides the peace of mind that comes from knowing your policy will provide the protection and peace of mind when the worst happens. Being able to offer insurance for both personal and business customers helps us to achieve our aim of helping protect our rural communities.”

“I thought that undertaking a business partnership might be challenging, but in fact the whole team has been so supportive, and I’m really enjoying getting to know our clients.”

“It’s been a pleasure to join a warm and welcoming team, meeting some really lovely clients, at the recent Rutland Show. It really did make me proud to be an agent in the agency, working alongside Ashley Oxer and our 17 team members, seeing our clients enjoying the show in the sunshine. I’m really enjoying summer in Rutland, and I can see myself being really happy in the role for many years to come!”

Find Out More: NFU Mutual Stamford is now based at 41 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS. For more information call 01780 762421 or visit nfumutual.co.uk. A Oxer and E J Westley are appointed representatives of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982),and an introducer to NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited, a member of the NFU Mutual group of companies.

Choose BMW’s 4 Series, for

Fun in the Sun

Britain’s love affair with open-top motoring appears to have disappeared behind a cloud, as fewer motorists than ever are choosing convertible sports cars. This month we lift the lid on a car that makes a very good case for going topless this summer: BMW’s 4 Series Convertible

In 2004, British motorists purchased 94,484 convertible cars but last year we purchased just 16,486 of the things, a decline of 83% over 20 years.

It was always very strange, given our climate, that Britain was the second biggest market for convertible cars in Europe (after Germany). Perhaps the fall in convertible sales and the less common occurrence of opening sunroofs is because climate control is a better way to keep cool all summer long (and year round), but still, who doesn’t look at an open top motorist on a hot summer day with a degree of envy?

Given that Germans love their convertibles too, it makes sense that some of the country’s best brands, including BMW, are continuing to champion them with cars like Mercedes Benz’s new CLE, Porsche’s Boxster and 911, BMW’s Z4 two-seater roadster and this, the firm’s 4-Series Convertible.

If you’re looking for open-top motoring, we think it’s one of the best on the market. There are four seats and there’s a 385-litre boot (for context a Ford Focus is 375 litres) so it’s not an impractical car despite its folding roof. The latter is a retractable hard top, raised and lowered electrically in 18 seconds at up to 30mph, giving a coupé-like profile when the sun isn’t shining.

Two models are available; a 420i M Sport version with a 184hp four-cylinder 2.0 engine achieves 39.8-44.8mpg, reaching 60mph in 7.5 seconds. An M440i xDrive with all-wheel drive and a six-cylinder 374hp engine reaches 60mph in 4.5 seconds.

Unless you’re keen to take advantage of allwheel drive or you’re an especially spirited driver, we’d stick with the 420i, at £51,245 (the M440i is £67,345). Both models are well-equipped with electric roof, heated, electrically adjustable leather seats, climate control, navigation plus Apple CarPlay and Android compatibility.

We’d also spec active cruise control (£600), heated steering wheel (£250), and warm air collar (£500) too.

The 4-Series looks smartest in BMW’s Alpine White with Tarcora Red or Mocha leather, or in the company’s Portimao blue with Oyster leather and ash-grey wood trim.

Naturally, as a BMW, cabin quality is unsurpassed, driver appeal is substantial and with a good blend of practicality, performance and economy, the 4 Series is a car you’ll enjoy owning all year round, but in high summer, it’ll prove especially rewarding... all we need now is some Great British sunshine!

The Details

BMW 4 Series Convertible

£51,245, (420i M Sport Convertible) £67,345 (M440i xDrive Convertible).

Top Speed: 147mph (420i); 155mph (M440i xDrive)

0­60mph: 8.2 seconds (420i); 4.9 seconds (M440i xDrive).

Fuel Economy: 38.2­41.5 (420i M Sport).

32.1­34.4 (M440i xDrive).

Seats: Four. Boot Space: 358­litres.

Rose Tinted Cosmetics

Smell the roses this summer with fresh and floral luxury cosmetics for August

Life is beautiful, says Lancôme

La Vie Est Belle has been exclusively created for Lancôme by three of the most renowned French perfumers.

‘A fragrance with a powerful trail, with a perfect balance between the nobility of Iris, the depth of Patchouli, and an alluring Vanilla accord, creati the perfect scent of happiness,’ £125 / 100ml, lancome.co.uk.

Clinique’s Moisturiser

Les Mains Hermès Nail Enamel

Shown here in Rose Porcelaine shade, Hermès’ nail enamel is available in 24 shades and provides radiant colour and a long­lasting lacquered shine. Its fluid texture leaves a fine, smooth film on the nail. £45/15ml, available from hermes.com.

Clinique’s Moisture Surge SPF 25 moisturiser is a cloud­like cream with sun protection, aloe and pro­vitamin D built in. Moisture and sun protection all summer, £44/50ml, johnlewis.com.

Caudalíe Rose de Vigne

A great daily shower gel with a light and lovely fragrance. Soap­free and suitable for sensitive skin, lightly fragranced with notes of rose, rhubarb and musk, £10/200ml, uk.caudalie.com.

Ultranatural Eye Colour

BareMinerals’ Ultranatural Eyeshadow Palette features six richly pigmented cool neutral hues in a range of finishes with taupe, ecru and sandstone tones, £30/7.8g, www.johnlewis.com.

Diptyque’s Roses Scented Candle

The ultimate scented candle from Diptyque, with bouquet of fresh flowers, blooming in the deepest winter. Its porcelain vessel, stamped with the oval of the Maison, is an invitation to make this luminous ritual last.

Gradually, the air fills with fresh, flowery notes.

A tribute to a timeless emblem, £285/1,500g, johnlewis.com.

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

Looking After Your HEALTH

Ramsay Healthcare’s Fitzwilliam Hospital in Peterborough, and its sister facility, Boston West Hospital, are both in the best of health, with lots of good news to share including a glowing assessment from the Care Quality Commission. This is healthcare performing at its very best for local patients

Fitzwilliam Hospital, based in Peterborough and owned by Ramsay Group, recently had a ‘check-up’ of its own with an inspection and assessment by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England.

“We’re thrilled!” says hospital manager Carl Cottam. “The report highlighted that people receive good care and their experiences are favourable, with lots of positive feedback from patients.”

“The report deemed us ‘good’ across the board, and followed our 40th anniversary celebrations last year. So, we’re thrilled to be able to build on our success, with a number of new clinics, consultants and new equipment ensuring that we can offer prompt access to consultant-led diagnostics and care.”

Private GP Services

“Our Private GP Services provide access to well-respected GPs with the highest clinical standards to discuss both urgent issues and long-term conditions.”

“We’re delighted to welcome our newest GP, Dr Sarah Moran, who is working alongside our existing GPs Dr Donna Hutchinson and Dr Aisha Bashir. Prompt access to our GPs allows patients to discuss ongoing medical care for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, women’s and men’s health issues, and to access private prescriptions or to gain advice and help for ongoing pain.”

Breast Clinic Service

“Another successful service is our Screening and Symptomatic Breast Care Clinic which allows rapid screening, diagnosis and treatment in a single clinic.”

“Around 55,000 women a year are diagnosed with breast cancer, with eight out of ten cases in women aged 50 and over, and 85% surviving for more than five years after diagnosis.”

“Finding cancer early raises the success rate of treatment. So the convenient and prompt access to diagnostic services – for instance, mammography with same-day results – can be a great source of reassurance for our patients.”

Outreach Clinics

“Fitzwilliam Hospital is also extending its provision of healthcare with outreach clinics at St James Medical Practice in South Wootton, St Clements Surgery in Terrington St Clements, Kings Lynn and Acorn Surgery in Huntingdon.”

“Our outreach clinics are of particular benefit to patients with spinal, orthopaedic and pain-related conditions, and further outreach healthcare provision is provided by Fitzwilliam’s sister hospital, Boston West.”

Boston West Hospital

“Boston West Hospital was purpose-built in 2006 to accommodate modern assessment and treatment for day-case conditions.”

“Patients enjoy access to diagnostics like endoscopy day-case treatment for common conditions like cataracts, hernias and minor skin procedures.”

“The hospital’s operating theatre already performs many common procedures, and later this year, Boston West’s throughput will increase from a second theatre due for completion in early 2025.”

Welcoming New Faces

“Both Fitzwilliam and Boston West have always provided excellent care with over 100 consultants including its newest doctors, spinal specialist Dr Girish Swamy and breast surgeons Dr John Mathew and Dr Asad Parvaiz both specialising in the rapid diagnosis of breast cancer.”

A Wide Range of Services

“Fitzwilliam Hospital was built in 1983 and provides five state-of-the-art theatres as well as 48 en suite bedrooms, plus sophisticated medical imaging tools from its 2022 Siemens static MRI scanner to its Fuji and GE CT and Ultrasound units, ensuring fast, accurate diagnosis.”

“With the hospital’s physiotherapy suite and a comprehensive range of medical disciplines, from orthopaedic and ENT, to ophthalmology, gynaecology, medical diagnostics, treatment and surgical procedures, we’re thrilled to continue offering outstanding, accessible care and peace of mind for our community.”

Find Out More: The Fitzwilliam Hospital is one of 35 Ramsay Group­owned hospitals in the UK. The hospital was established in 1983 as a private facility for healthcare with 48 en suite bedrooms, five operating theatres, a dedicated MRI, CT and X­Ray imaging suite and physiotherapy unit. Call 01733 261717 or see www fitzwilliamhospital.co.uk.

At Market Place Dental Practice, we are an independent local dental practice situated in the heart of Rutland, Uppingham established in 1994. We are focused upon providing holistic and preventative treatments to all our patients whilst using the latest in innovative technology. We pride ourselves on being a long-standing member of the local community and this is evident in our ethos to promote good oral health and hygiene.

TEETH STRAIGHTENING IN UPPINGHAM

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

At Market Place Dental Practice we offer a full range of dental services including routine dental check-ups, teeth whitening, implants and cosmetic treatments, all designed to enhance your smile and oral health.

If you are looking to improve your smile, we will listen carefully to your wishes and explain any recommended treatments. We will then create a bespoke, individualised treatment plan just for you and once your treatment plan has been agreed we will book the appropriate appointment(s) for you.

We strive to provide high quality dental care for all our patients. Care that provides as positive an experience for all our patients as possible.

With continuous advances in technology, orthodontic treatment is becoming more popular amongst all ages. The traditional fixed braces in silver, gold alloy and ceramic as well as plastic aligners such as Invisalign are popular choices for straightening teeth.

FIXED BRACES

Fixed braces are made up of small brackets attached to each tooth and connected by a wire. Different wires are placed and adjusted over time, creating gentle pressure which aligns the teeth accurately into the desired position.

INVISALIGN

Invisalign uses removable plastic aligners that are taken off for eating, drinking and tooth brushing. They have a very subtle appearance, are comfortable and convenient. A series of these aligners, in combination with attachments on the teeth, gently move the teeth over time to improve alignment.

Fashion Fresh Linens

Stylish and light, this month, our pick of the most stylish linen trouser suits perfect for summer

www.cefinn.com.

www.hollandcooper.com.

www.allsaints.com.

www.thewhitecompany.com.

www.shop.mango.com.

Opposite: Jamie linen blend blazer, £390; Deacon linen waistcoat, £180; Tyler linen blend wide leg trouser, £290,

Top left: Natural linen Belgravia wide leg trouser, £349; Hampton waistcoat, £349; double breasted blazer, £599,

Top right: Deri Lyn linen blend blazer, £239; waistcoat, £139; trousers, £169.

Above left: Linen stretch tailored waistcoat, £110; trousers, £159; blazer, £189,

Above right: 100% linen blazer, £79.99; waistcoat, £45.99; trousers, £49.99,

Oh, Happy Day!

If music be the food of love, the wedding day of Miranda & Henry was a veritable feast with gospel singers and incognito artists helping to entertain the couple’s guests

Images: Paul Williams, 07702 162 691, www.gingerbeardweddings.com.

Henry was the cool older kid when he and Miranda’s families used to spend time together. Is he still the cool older kid, we wondered? Well, he’s older, reckons Miranda...

The couple met as youngsters and went on skiing holidays with one another, and eventually got together as a couple in 2021. The couple both enjoy sailing on Miranda’s family’s catamaran moored down in Cornwall, and a bit over a year ago, the two were enjoying sailing followed by dinner at their favourite seafood restaurant, when Henry proposed to Miranda.

He had planned to go down on one knee on the boat, but both later expressed relief as they feared one or the other would end up dropping the ring overboard. Happily, no such incident occurred the two settled down to plan their perfect day together.

“I did have a romantic idea about marrying on the boat,” says Miranda. “But the legalities of marrying at sea and the practicalities forced a rethink. I was raised in Lincolnshire and so an alternative idea was to have a ceremony on land near my family home.”

The couple held their ceremony at St James’ Church in Aslackby near Bourne, making their way to the ceremony in a horse-drawn carriage.

“It was really lovely,” says Miranda. “The church has a lovely feel, very peaceful and reverential. The horses were absolutely immaculate, beautifully turned out and it felt very traditional. The marquee was lovely too, situated in one of our fields overlooking a lake.”

Gospel Touch Choir performed ‘Oh Happy Day’ as the couple left church

Weddings

and further musical entertainment was a cause for joy thanks to Alerion String Quartet and Incognito Artists’ performers, who posed as waiting staff working with Beetroot Catering, before bursting into a repertoire of opera and West End hits to the delight of guests, who added to the chaos by embarking upon an impromptu conga line, snaking around the marquee!

“They really were incredible and performed about ten songs. The guests absolutely loved them and couldn’t stop taking about them!”

Also at the reception, the whole wedding party enjoyed cocktails prepared by professional mixologists Mix & Twist, with lots of bespoke cocktails including the event’s signature ‘Mirenry’ cocktail.

The whole day was captured by Ginger Beard Weddings and Lincolnshire Videographers who Miranda and Henry both reckon are outstanding.

“I was really happy to find Naomi at Chapter 21 weddings too,” says Miranda. “She was half wedding coordinator, half wedding stylist and so much more. She worked alongside Sarah Youngman who created the most beautiful wedding floristry, which really impressed us!”

Miranda’s dress was from Courtyard Bridal Boutique. Whilst most brides relish the opportunity to go dress shopping Miranda reckons it was an unfulfilling experience, at least until she discovered Market Harborough’s Courtyard Boutique, and chose a Jesús Peiró gown with pleated sleeves and lace detailing. The bridesmaids wore Martini green gowns from Azazie, whilst the groomsmen’s tailoring was from Vow Bridal of Wansford.

“We’re so grateful to all of our wedding suppliers, to our parents, and to all of our friends and family who all helped to made the day just what we wanted: a really fun celebration!”

Local Suppliers

Photography: www.gingerbeardweddings.com.

Videography: www.lincolnshirevideography.com.

Marquee: Big Marquees, 01283 223191.

Wedding Dress: Jesús Peiró, courtyardbridalboutique.com.

Groomsmen’s Tailoring: www.vowbridal.co.uk.

Floristry: Sarah Youngman, 07500 114625.

Wedding Catering: www.www.beetrootcatering.co.uk.

Wedding Cake: H&R Bakery, www.handrbakery.co.uk.

Horse & Carriage: D K Carriage Horses, 01949 358695.

Singing Waiters/Chefs: www.incognitoartists.com.

Entertainment: trulymedleydeeply.com, light­it­up.co.uk.

Gospel Choir: 0800 6102009, www.gtchoir.com.

Stylist/Coordinator: chapter21weddingsandevents.co.uk.