Rutland Pride March 2024

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FRES H OK

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RUTLAND’S FINEST MAGAZINE

CHRIS GROOMBRIDGE’S FINE ART SCULPTURE

EVERY MO

NEW LO

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THE B ES NG YI

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£4.50

DINING OUT AT THE

VISITING THE SCULPTOR’S SOUTH LUFFENHAM BASED STUDIO

Chubby Castor

RUTLAND WATER

ENJOY LUXURIOUS DINING AT THIS STUNNING FINE DINING RESTAURANT

FRESH AIR AND GLORIOUS SCENERY AT RUTLAND WATER IN MARCH

Rutland’s Queen Edith OAKHAM’S ALL SAINTS CHURCH CELEBRATES THE LOST QUEEN

WHAT’S ON GUIDE

LUXURY HOMES

SPRING FLOWERS

A ROUNDUP OF MUSIC, THEATRE AND LIVE EVENTS IN MARCH

THE LARGEST SELECTION OF LUXURY HOMES IN THE AREA

SPECTACULAR DRIFTS OF SEASONAL WOODLAND FLOWERS

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Welcome T

here’s joy to be found in every season, of course, but spring always feels particularly optimistic. Grey skies are replaced by much nicer bright blue ones, the trees are once again adorned with greenery and temperatures are a little more tolerable if you’re out and about.

One of the spring rituals that we enjoy is a bracing walk around the parkland of Burghley House – which opens again in March, as detailed in this edition – or a trek around Rutland Water. Something about the sight of snowdrops, aconites and crocus makes us all feel a little more energised!

Elsewhere in this edition, we’re enjoying some really stunning dining at The Chubby Castor in the village of the same name. Chef patron Adebola Adeshina has created a stunning dining experience, one that we’re really happy to recommend!

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/rutlandpride www.facebook.com/stamfordpride Find us on Instagram: @rutlandpride @stamfordpride Download our App: Search for Pride Magazines in Apple’s App Store and on Google Play.

Also this month, we’re meeting the incredibly talented local sculptor Chris Groomsbridge to discover more about his work, we’re finding out about Rutland’s Queen Edith, namesake of Edith Weston, and we’ll look around a beautiful property nestling in a pretty location next to the Welland Viaduct.

Please do remember that we’re always happy to receive your news, suggestions for features and to receive invites to your black-tie balls and charity events, so please do keep us up to date so we can continue to report on all the good things that are happening right across Rutland and Stamford this year!

Our best wishes for a wonderful month!

Julian Wilkinson Publisher, Pride Magazines

This month’s covers show Billy the Border Collie who enjoys spring almost as much as us.

He especially enjoys looking cute in a patch of bluebells! We also see Stamford’s Paten & Co. We’re always looking for great images of the area so please feel free to email us your best photos of Rutland or Stamford to robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.

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66 Contents 11

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LUXURY HOMES Enjoy the largest selection of luxury and countryside homes in Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding area.

MARCH 2024

Food & Drink 52

DINING OUT Celebrating the sixth anniversary of The Chubby Castor, Adebola Adeshina’s dazzling fine­dining restaurant.

including the return of Rutland’s Good and New Sale for 2024.

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RECIPES & WINE A teatime treat and three Chablis recommendations.

WHAT’S ON Live music and theatre.

Homes & Gardens

LOCAL NEWS Good news stories

106 WALKING A Rutland refresher.

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WELCOME HOME A beautifully­ presented country house adjacent to The Welland Viaduct.

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HOMES Spring interiors and sofas from Stamford’s Delcor.

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GARDENS Snowdrops and spring joy.

Highlights 37

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FINE ART SCULPTURE We meet Chris Groomsbridge at his Rutland studio to discover more about his fine art bas relief work.

Lifestyle

QUEEN EDITH This month Oakham All Saints Church reveals a new exhibition featuring Rutland’s

110 MOTORS Jaguar’s F­Type.

influential Queen Edith.

126 WEDDING ALBUM Laura & Tom’s day.

112 FASHION & COSMETICS designer bags.

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Offers in Excess of £500,000

Offers in Excess of £650,000

Meadow View, Main Street, Barrowden

Crown House, Wakerley Road, Barrowden

A charming three-bedroom stone cottage set over three floors, offering characterful accommodation and countryside views, all nestled in the heart of the ever-popular village of Barrowden.

Originally built in the 1800s, Crown House is a beautifully-presented, threebedroom limestone cottage with flexible and spacious accommodation, a southwest facing garden, private driveway, and a newly built double garage, all sitting in the heart of the sought-after village of Barrowden.

Offers in Excess of £650,000

Guide Price £850,000

4 Stockerston Road, Uppingham

Paddock Plot, Kirby Road, Gretton

Originally built in 1901, this impressive, six-bedroom character home offers expansive and flexible accommodation, a private driveway, and a courtyard garden, all sitting in within a stone’s throw of Uppingham town centre.

A newly-built, five-bedroom, detached family home with flexible accommodation, off-road parking, and a large west-facing garden, all sitting in the popular Northamptonshire village of Gretton.

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Luxury Homes

Find Your Perfect Home The largest selection of luxury homes on the market in Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding area

Above: Alwalton Hall, Peterborough, currently on the market for £2m with Hurfords, see www.hurfords.co.uk

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Highbrook House Egleton, Rutland Picturesque five-bedroom house with significant array of commercial buildings, located near the stunning Rutland Water Nature Reserve. In all extending to 15.78 acres

Asking Price: £2,950,000 Carter Jonas Cambridge 01223 346600 | jamie.elbourn@carterjonas.co.uk 01223 346600 | jasmine.holland@carterjonas.co.uk Shouler & Son Melton Mowbary 01664 786375 | r.cleaver@shoulers.co.uk 01664 502953 | h.baines@shoulers.co.uk

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Alwalton Peterborough This Grade II listed home offers vast accommodation over 2 floors, boasting 9 bedrooms, a multitude of formal reception rooms with stunning original features. Externally there is an outdoor swimming pool with 2 sets of changing rooms & a bar, stables in the garden and is positioned on a 4 acre plot.

Guide Price: £2,000,000 Hurfords 5 The Barns, Milton Lane, Castor, Peterborough PE5 7DH. Call 01733 380956 or see www.hurfords.co.uk

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Cecil Square Stamford Situated on the edge of the exclusive Cecil Square development just a few moments' stroll from the renowned George Hotel, Burghley Park and the train station, this fabulous town house offers the perfect fusion of elegant proportions with modern, convenient living.

Offers in Excess of: £700,000 Digby & Finch 8 St. Marys Hill Stamford PE9 2DP. Call 01780 758090 or see www.digbyandfinch.com

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Waterford House Twyford Waterford House is a substantial country home boasting a self-contained annexe, positioned on a generous plot of approximately 3.75 acres accompanied by a Victorian stable block with several stables, workshops, garaging and office rooms.

Guide Price: £1,350,000 Moores Estate Agents Goodwood House, Hackamore Way, Oakham LE15 7FS. Call 01572 757979 or see www.mooresestateagents.com

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Garden Farm Wardley, Rutland Originally built in the 1800s, Garden Farm is a substantial, stone-built family home standing in approximately 1.7 acres of grounds and offering extensive and spacious accommodation with outbuildings and a private driveway, all sitting at the edge of the quiet and well-located village of Wardley.

Offers in Excess of: £1,250,000 James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com

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Whitwell Road Empingham Escape to a rural sanctuary at No. 10, Whitwell Road, a cleverly renovated and extended home offering easy flow and spacious, modern living, sat on the cusp of Rutland Water.

Guide Price: £950,000 Pelham James 3 Saddler's Court, Oakham, Rutland LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk

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Townhouse Market Deeping A beautifully refurbished, grade II listed, family home stands in a conservation area in the attractive town of Market Deeping, on the borders of South Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire. The fabulous, 6 bedroomed house with its tranquil rear garden, dates to the late 1700s and is a masterful blend of old and new with a contemporary style and palette highlighting the building’s traditional features.

Guide Price: £1,000,000 Fine & Country The Old Jewellers, 30 High Street East Uppingham LE15 9PZ. Call 01780 750 200 or see www.fineandcountry.co.uk

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Grove House Bourne Grove House is a wonderful grade II listed former farmhouse situated in a peaceful hamlet location yet within easy access of Bourne, Stamford, Grantham and Peterborough. This beautifully proportioned period home offers very generous living space along with extensive and very private south westerly facing gardens of over half an acre with far reaching views across the countryside.

Guide Price: £875,000 Digby & Finch 8 St. Marys Hill Stamford PE9 2DP. Call 01780 758090 or see www.digbyandfinch.com

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Rutland Terrace Stamford This stunning town house is set overlooking the Welland valley with views across Stamford and over to Wothorpe. This Regency Grade II Listed home has flexible accommodation set over four floors and comes with numerous original features, an open plan kitchen diner and a superb sitting room with two Juliet balconies and the open views.

Guide Pride: £1,150,000 Sowden Wallis 8 Star Lane, Stamford PE9 1PH. Call 01780 754737 or see www.sowdenwallis.co.uk

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LUXURY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

A SMALL COMPANY WITH A LARGE AMOUNT OF EXPERTISE, USING LOCAL SKILLED CRAFTSMEN AND ARTISANS. DELIVERING INCREDIBLE PROPERTIES WHETHER IT BE NEW BUILDS OR OUR SPECIALTY OF CONVERTING AND RESTORING BARNS. Sustainable and energy efficient homes that enhance their setting. Every home is unique and thoughtfully designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing in order to enhance the lives of the people who live in them.

Development possibilities, with or without planning permission undertaken, if you have a property with development potential or land please do contact us.

Unit 5 - 6 Picks Barn, North Luffenham Road, Lyndon, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8TY 07813 838402 info@kaybeedevelopments.co.uk www.kaybeedevelopments.co.uk

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Local News The Barnsdale prepares new events venue Building has commenced on Exton hotel The Barnsdale’s new wedding and events barn promising to be a luxurious venue like no other...

Great news for anyone planning a wedding or event in 2024! This month will see the unveiling of a beautiful new space adjacent to The Barnsdale hotel, in which to create your special occasion.

We’ve already been really impressed with the new look hotel, formerly known as Barnsdale Lodge and now owned by The Signet Collection.

Following on from the reopening of its restaurant and bedrooms last year, the hotel’s wedding and events barn have been treated to an investment of time and creative effort, providing a new wedding venue unlike any other, complete with bifold doors onto the croquet lawn, a brand new bar, and The Pamper Room, a bespoke dressing room where brides can get ready.

See www.barnsdalerutland.com.

Good & New Clothes Sale Organised by the charity For Rutland, the Good and New Sale returns this month for 2024 at the Rutland Showground with a VIP night on Friday 22nd March It’s back, and it’s set to raise lots of money for a charity close to the heart of many Rutlanders. For Rutland’s Good & New Clothes Sale returns on Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd March and will be held at the Rutland Showground.

Admission on Saturday is £5/door, but to avoid disappointment, we’d recommend you purchase an advance ticket for Friday night’s VIP event which provides first dibs on the best clothing and also provides a glass of Champagne and canapés generously provided by Hambleton Hall...

The event features good quality pre-owned clothing including plenty of desirable designer outfits and accessories. Organisers are still keen to receive donations of women’s men’s and children’s clothing.

For more information on the sale, visit www.forrutland.org.uk.

Image: For Rutland model Lottie Crooke, photo by Elli Dean.

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

Lions Club supporting EMICS

Lunch for Even Less in Rutland

East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme (EMICS) supported with donation from Rutland’s Lions

Six superb local restaurants are pairing up to offer great value daytime dining in Rutland this month

Rutland’s Lions Club last month presented a cheque for £1,000 to the East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme (EMICS), a group of volunteer medics who cover 4,000 square miles and are available to Rutlanders in need, 365 days a year.

Dr Tim Gray accepted the group’s donation at a recent meeting held at Oakham’s Admiral Hornblower and gave a talk to the group, explaining how it now answers up to 1,500 calls a year. For more on the service, see www.emics.org.uk.

It’s back and it’s as delicious as ever! Half a dozen of Rutland’s finest dining rooms are once again offering the chance to enjoy Lunch for Even Less in February and March.

Hambleton Hall is offering two courses for £48.50 until 29th February during lunchtime service on weekdays. A third course is also available for £12.50, see www.hambletonhall.com.

Clipsham’s stunning gastropub The Olive Branch offers two courses for £25 until Saturday 9th March with a third course for £6.50, see www.theolivebranchpub.com.

Date confirmed for Burghley The world’s greatest 5* equestrian event will return to Stamford’s Burghley Estate from 5th-8th September The Defender Burghley Horse Trials will return from 5th to 8th September.

2023’s event was won by Oliver Townend riding Ballaghmor Class, with all of the event’s riders helping to draw a crowd of over 180,000 spectators.

The event features over 600 exhibitors, contributing £20m to the local economy each year.

Image: Phil Nixon.

The Wheatsheaf at Greetham is also participating in the promotion with two courses for £21 until Saturday 23rd March, www.wheatsheaf-greetham.co.uk, whilst The King’s Arms pub restaurant based in Wing provides two courses for £21.95, see www.thekingsarms-wing.co.uk. Oakham’s Hitchen’s Barn is offering two courses for £22 until 30th March, see hitchensbarn.co.uk, and Burrough-on-the-Hill’s Stag & Hounds, stagnhoundspub.co.uk is offering diners two courses for £22. Offers are subject to available at each restaurant, Sunday dining or Valentine’s Day is excluded.

And Finally... Happy 100th birthday to Stamford resident and former nurse Mary Hodgkinson. One of the longest-standing members of the congregation at Sy Mary’s Church, Mary moved to the town from Norwich to be with husband and soon settled in the town. sitting on the parochial church council and working on the Hurst Ward at Stamford Hospital.

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TAILOR & CUTTER Bespoke Tailors & Shirt Makers

Gentlemen’s Suits, Jackets, Overcoats and Tuxedos all beautifully tailored from a choice of over 6000 fine cloths.

Please Telephone for an appointment

11A High Street St Martins Stamford 01780 762544 35

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Sculpture

Chris Groombridge’s

Fine Art Sculpture

From his studio in South Luffenham, renowned Rutland fine art sculptor Christopher Groombridge produces his spectacular work, every example of which has a wonderful story behind it...

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The catwalk of an haute couture fashion show featuring John Galliano; a West End film premiere; the lobby of Claridges; a live pop concert starring artists like Kylie or Lady Gaga; an exhibition promotion in Trafalgar Square; or even the far-flung underwater city of the Gungan species in the Star Wars universe.

Those are just a few of the places you’ll have seen the work of Rutland-based sculptor Chris Groombridge. High profile work aside though, the best place to appreciate Chris’s work is in your own home as several local families have found after commissioning the artist to create sculptures of their family, animals or other subjects.

Raised in East Sussex and with a degree in Design Representation in 1991 from what was The Hertfordshire College of Art & Design, Chris has spent much of his professional life working as a sculptor for theatre, film, TV and architecture, as well as promotional pieces for media and retail. Some of his early work included commissions seen in music videos of bands like Tears for Fears.

Recently he was contracted to carve a 5 metre tall statue of Freddie Mercury for the We Will Rock You stage show, which ultimately went into Brian May’s garden!

Examples of Chris’s public sculpture too, can be seen at various locations around the country, as well as on a more local level (such as the portrait of HRH Prince Philip in The Oakham Memorial Orchard).

“I graduated right in the middle of a recession,” says Chris, “But I soon found some good contacts. Some of my early training was several years of working with a former assistant to Henry Moore, giving me the basics for scaling up large pieces in polystyrene”.

“Though you’re only ever as good as your last contract, I’ve now gained a reputation as a safe pair of hands for completing commercial work, for even the most particular customers (such as Disney) - work which is both varied and rewarding.”

“Running parallel to my commercial work, the more private, fine art commissions are

more fulfilling; they mean so much more to clients than a simple design brief. Portraits of humans or animals, interpreted in a sculptural form, are a very tangible way to preserve the memories they hold.”

Chris moved from Welwyn Garden City to Rutland in 2015.

The fine artwork that he now produces takes the form of 3D sculptural pieces or semi-3D, bas-relief panels.

The latter are a bit deeper than a framed canvas and a judicious use of levels within the piece encourages highlights and shadows to fall on the surface to accentuate the 3Dappearance, thus giving a real sense of depth.

When creating the large commercial pieces, Chris usually begins with a range of architectural drawings, photographs and other reference material and uses polystyrene blocks to realise the design, beginning by cutting a rough profile of the piece with a hot wire tool, then manually carving intricate detail and texture according to a client’s brief.

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Sculpture

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Sculpture Typically for TV, film, theatre and live music, clients have a dedicated set painter to apply paint effects to the finished piece. A good example is the octopus tentacled set that Chris created which crept around the signage for Disney’s Little Mermaid film premiere in Leicester Square.

For his privately commissioned bas-relief panels, Chris still works from a visual, usually a good quality photograph, to create them in clay, whilst sometimes making a miniature version (known as a maquette) of the piece first.

Each panel takes the equivalent of about two solid weeks. The clay is dexterously manipulated by Chris’s own hands, then refined using his own handmade tools to achieve both a texture (fur, for example) and the desired style.

Interestingly, when carving large, scenic sculptures Chris tends to listen to some upbeat music – perhaps something effecting an electronic audio landscape, “with a good carving rhythm,” but his more sensitive basrelief panels usually necessitate something a little more slow-paced, acoustic or folky.

Chris commissioned his own purpose-built studio in the grounds of his cottage near South Luffenham, adjacent to the railway line. A timber-framed building with good natural light, a log burner heating up an old stovetop kettle for great coffee, and a spiral staircase leading to a mezzanine level reading room. There are, of course, wonderful views over the Rutland countryside too.

Chris has an innate feeling of how a 3D form should look, underwritten by a knowledge of anatomy that’s crucial for any sculptor.

It’s an important skill to master, and few subjects are more demanding in this respect than horses, which are especially well-suited to Chris’s medium – the combination of a powerful but elegant muscular form is inspiring...

“I see the process of sculpting (especially in bas-relief) any human or animal as a

“It really is an enjoyable profession. There’s something very mindful and enriching about working in clay...” landscape to be explored, with hills and valleys, plains and contours. A way of mapping out its rich surface.”

Once happy with the clay form, Chris creates a silicone mould of the piece, then uses acrylic plaster or resin for the final cast.

By default, this results in a lovely chalky white colour which allows the highlights and shadows alone to bring out the detail in the subject. With the addition of metallic pigments, plus various polishes and special finishes, Chris’s work can also take on bronze or aluminium tones enhanced with different patinas.

Despite looking like they’re solid metal, each sculpture is strong but lightweight, and weighs just a few pounds, so even the largest can easily be hung on a wall.

One of Chris’s sculptures in a clean white aesthetic is ideal in an open-plan kitchen or reception room, such as a barn conversion; the larger the piece, the better.

Alternatively, his bronzed or metallicized patinas really suit Georgian or Victorian living rooms. Some work can also be installed outdoors, as was the case for one client who wanted their young children immortalised as bronze life-size sculptures in the garden to forever remind them of just how little they used to be!

“It really is an enjoyable profession,” says Chris. “There’s something very mindful and enriching about working in clay.”

“It’s a slow but very deliberate process and the material has terrific scope for expression.

Commissions are incredibly fulfilling to do, so is the process of peeling back a mould to reveal the sculpture.”

“Undoubtedly though, the best part of the whole process is the moment the piece is finally revealed to the client. If it’s a portrait of an adult, a beloved child, or animal, it’s often an emotional reaction that makes every second of the journey worthwhile!”

Christopher Groombridge creates sculptural works for private clients typically portraying humans and animals, plus an ongoing variety of other rich subject matter. These range from £1,000 to £5,000, for more information call 07775 992056 or see www.groombridgesculpture.co.uk. Chris can also be found on Instagram @groombridgesculptureanddesign.

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History

Royal Rutland, the story of

Queen Edith This month, Oakham’s All Saints Church commemorates the life of Anglo-Saxon Queen Consort Edith of Wessex, one of the influential figures in 11th century succession and namesake of Rutland’s Edith Weston...

Words: Rob Davis, Professor Pauline Stafford.

H

ow is your knowledge of medieval history? Mine was distinctly rusty, I must admit, but fortunately for me, for historical accuracy and for the whole of Rutland too, Pauline Stafford, Emeritus Professor of Medieval History, formerly of the University of Liverpool, quite literally wrote the book on somebody that we’ll all be getting to know a little better in March.

The life of Edith of Wessex will be recognised this month at Oakham’s All Saints Church with a series of events including a visit to the church for school pupils followed by a church open day for the unveiling of a new illustrated exhibition, ‘Royal Rutland, the story of Queen Edith,’ including an accompanying book and a series of activities.

This month’s events have been planned by Rev’d Stephen Griffiths, Team Rector at All Saints, who wants to tell the story of a remarkable medieval figure with whom we’re largely unfamiliar, even in this area.

“Queen Edith is woven into the history of Rutland as as the Queen who held many of the manors of our county as her personal possession,” says Stephen. “Her legacy gently echos down the centuries to the present day, with her name preserved in one of the Rutland villages she held, Edith Weston.”

Born around 1020 and known as Gytha, later renamed Ealdgyth or Edith, her father was Godwine, Earl of Wessex who served under Danish King Cnut ‘the Great’ from 1016 to 1035 then under Harold Harefoot from 1035-1040 and Hardicanute from 1035 to 1042.

Born to a Danish mother and an Anglo-Saxon father, Edith was brought up at Wilton Abbey, where she was well educated; it is thought that Edith spoke five languages.

When Edith was in her early 20s, she found herself the subject of a strategic alliance and in 1045 she was married to Edward the Confessor, son of Æthelred the Unready and Emma of Normandy, another forceful medieval woman.

Edith became Queen Consort, anointed/consecrated, although it’s uncertain whether she was ever officially coronated. Like Emma of Normandy and grandmother-in-law Queen Ælfthryth, Edith was granted much of Rutland as her dower.

Prior to this period, England was divided into many smaller ‘kingdoms,’ from which the main kingdoms emerged; Bernicia, Deira, East Anglia (East Angles), Essex (East Saxon), Kent, Lindsey, Mercia, Sussex (South Saxons), and Wessex (West Saxons).

Because Rutland was a dower for successive medieval queens right up to the Norman conquest, it escaped division into shires, whilst the counties around it eventually became Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Cambridgeshire etc.

Rutland would have been strategically significant given the difficulty in ruling the Midlands and more northerly territories, so Queen Edith’s land would have been a royal presence, especially when her fathers and brothers were in exile in 1051. The etymology of Edith Weston – i.e.: Edith’s west ‘tun’ or settlement – may be a reference to the fact that Rutland was to the west of Stamford, and to the Great North Road, both of which are likely to have been strategically significant.

It’s thought that Edith commanded respect in Edward’s court, having her old convent rebuilt in stone, replacing an older timber structure, and transforming King Edward’s regalia, with a new crown and seal.

Image: In Westminster Abbey the shrine of St Edward the Confessor is where both the monarch and his Queen Consort Edith are buried. The latter is celebrated at All Saints Church in Oakham with a series of events this month.

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History

Edith seemed pragmatic enough to accept the Norman Conquest and Rutland is likely to have provided her a dower right up until her death in 1075 Edith’s mixed heritage, Anglo-Saxon and Danish, is a reminder that England had already been conquered by the Danish Cnut and that her entire life was lived in a period when Anglo-Saxon, Scandinavian and Norman rulers were all competing and vying for succession to the throne. The role of a queen at such a time was usually to support of her own sons.

But Edith’s marriage, though successful by medieval standards, was childless. Queen Edith nonetheless emerges as an astute and diplomatic survivor. However her mother-in-law, Emma of Normandy, had already experienced a contested succession and recognised the difficulty this could present.

Upon Edward’s death in 1066 the crown was contested by both Edith’s brother Harold Godwinson and by Normandy’s William the Conqueror. At the Battle of Stamford Bridge and the Battle Hastings, Edith lost her four of her brothers, Tostig, Harold, Gyrth and Leofwine whilst another, Wulfnoth, became a prisoner of William.

Edith’s mother Gytha fled England, as did most other members of the Godwine family.

The Bayeux Tapestry depicts Edith sitting at the foot of Edward’s bed.

This is the only contemporary portrayal of her. It is a reminder that by now she was Edward’s wife perhaps more than Godwine’s daughter. Her fate after 1066 reflects that. William the Conqueror respected her as the widow of the relative through whom he claimed the English throne.

Edith seemed pragmatic enough to accept the Norman Conquest and Rutland is likely to have provided her with a dower right up until her death in 1075. Until this point she is thought to have studied the lives of the English saints and worked with hagiographers to record their lives. Upon her death, Edith was buried in Westminster Abbey next to Edward with a state funeral arranged by William.

Rutland has been the dower of the Queens of England since 964.

After Edith’s death, King William took the biggest share of Rutland, amounting to 14 manors, plus 24 caracates (a unit of land area approximating the area a plough team of eight oxen could till in a single annual season) and 39 hides (the amount of land sufficient to support a household)... it also including the town of Oakham.

Other beneficiaries of the land included Countess Judith, widow of the late Earl Waltheof following his execution in 1079 for treason.

Judith gained 16 manors, 19 caracates and 13 hides. Four further tenants-in-chief gained land along with the church, specifically the Bishops of Lincoln and Durham, the Abbot of Peterborough and Godfrey of Cambrai.

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Above: Queen Edith based on the coronation from Aelred's 13th century 'Life of Edward' by Rutland’s Paul Wiggin.

The event this month will be attended by Queen Edith – or at least a talented actor playing the part – and displays from leading educational groups and re-enactors such as Kindred, based in Corby.

Also attending the event will be Mia Hansson from Wisbech, who has been labouring since 2016 to create a replica of the Bayeux tapestry which will measure 230ft long.

A town treasure trail and other activities will all help to create a fascinating day that will celebrate the launch of the panels, created with artwork by Paul Wiggin, who has also helped to produce the accompanying book. Together, Rev’d Stephen, Pauline and Paul are hoping to ensure that the life of Queen Edith is better understood and commemorated in Rutland.

‘Royal Rutland – The Story of Queen Edith’ takes place in Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th March at All Saints Church in Oakham. See www.discover­rutland.co.uk for more details.

Professor Pauline Stafford is the author of ‘Unification and Conquest, a political and social history of England in the tenth and eleventh centuries’ (1989) and ‘Queen Emma and Queen Edith: Queenship and women’s power in eleventh­century England’ (1997).

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What’s On Saturday 9th March Sunday 10th March

Throughout March

Burghley House reopens for 2024

Queen Edith: The Rutland Royal

Burghley House reopens this month with the Burghley7 Road Race taking place on 10th March. As its name suggest, it’s a seven-mile road race along a traffic-free St Martins via private areas of the estate.

Around 1000 years ago a remarkable woman was born, whose story has largely been forgotten. This month, Royal Rutland will tell the story of Queen Edith and how she is woven into the history of the county. Saturday 9th March sees a church open day with illustrated exhibition and special guests. Sunday 10th from 6pm sees a service of celebration marking 1,000 years in the life of the medieval monarch.

Then, from 16th March into April, the estate’s south gardens open with wonderful views of the lake and Lion Bridge, plus swathes of spring snowdrops and nodding daffodils.

The house itself, gardens and adventure play area are all open too with an Easter Egg Hunt and Easter craft workshops in March and in April.

Oakham All Saints’ Church, see www.discover­rutland.co.uk

For more information see www.burghley.co.uk.

Friday 1st March

Life of Pi at Curve Theatre

Spring at Barnsdale Gardens

Theatrical adaptation of Yann Martel’s novel, adapted first for cinema by Ang Lee and now at Curve Theatre

From Tuesday 12th March

Life of Pi at Curve Theatre After an epic storm in the Pacific Ocean, Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors: a hyena, zebra, an orangutan, and a Bengal tiger.

Based on the Yann Martel novel, winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over 15m copies, Life Of Pi is the hugely popular story of endurance and hope.

2.15pm, 7.30pm, based at Curve Theatre, LE1 1SB. Call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk

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Where better to celebrate the coming of spring than at Exton’s Barnsdale Gardens?

1st March sees a free talk delivered by Nick Hamilton, and entitled Spring into Spring.

Look out, too, for Mothers Day at Barnsdale Gardens with free entry for mums on Sunday 10th March and events celebrating Easter at Barnsdale Gardens from 29th March until 1st April, including an Easter Egg hunt.

For more information see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk.

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

Monday 18th March Wednesday 20th March Thursday 21st March

Revision on Tour for GCSE students

Wednesday 6th March

Kinky Boots: The Musical Live screening of Kinky Boots, The Musical, filmed live at the Adelphi Theatre in the heart of London’s West End, is strutting onto the big screen! Inspired by true events, this huge-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common... or so

they think. Charlie is a factory owner struggling to save his family business, and Lola is a fabulous entertainer with a wildly exciting idea: why not create leather boots for the cabaret performer and drag act market? Featuring heels, hilarity and Great British grit.

Stamford Arts Centre, PE9 2DL. Call 01780 763 203 or see www.stamfordartscentre.com.

Film scores and much more Tribute to Hans Zimmer and cinema’s most iconic music with a live orchestra illuminated by candlelight!

Sunday 23rd March

Kings, Queens & Coronations

Coinciding with this year’s GCSE English syllabus, the Dickens Theatre Company debuts at Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre in Spring 2024, doing what they do best, putting their unique stamp on GCSE English literature texts. Macbeth, Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde and Romeo & Juliet are all being staged with a view to providing live insight into each performance and its characters.

Uppingham Choral Society presents its spring concert, inspired by the coronation ceremonies and reigns of HRH Elizabeth I, George II, George VI, Charles II, Elizabeth II and Charles II. The performance will include the Handel Coronation Anthems, ‘I was glad,’ Purcell ‘All Creatures Now,’ John Bennett, ‘Gloria,’ Stanford, Crown Imperial, Walton (Organ solo), ‘Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,’ Wesley (Elizabeth II) and ‘I was glad,’ Parry. Organist John Wardle.

Stamford Corn Exchange, Broad Street, PE9 1PX. Call 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

Tickets £12/door, from 7.30pm, Uppingham Parish Church, for information see uppinghamchoralsociety.uk.

Thursday 7th March

Hans Florian Zimmer has won two Oscars and four Grammys, and has been nominated for three Emmys and a Tony. Zimmer was also named on the list of Top 100 Living Geniuses, published

by The Daily Telegraph.

Hans Zimmer’s Film Favourites Illuminated Experience cinema’s most iconic music performed by The London Film Music Orchestra illuminated!

An hour and a quarter that’s jam-packed with some of cinema’s most iconic music, beautifully performed by a live chamber orchestra. Score includes: ET, Jurassic Park, Jaws, Harry Potter, Star Wars and Indiana Jones and Schindlers list.

This concert takes place in Peterborough Cathedral, with the nave gently and beautifully illuminated.

Tickets from £34.74, performances at 7pm and 9.30pm, PE1 1XS. Call 01733 355315 or see www.peterborough­ cathedral.org.uk.

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Dining Out

The Chubby Castor

Spring dining in style this month, as we enjoy a return visit to The Chubby Castor to help Adebola Adeshina’s dazzling restaurant to celebrate its sixth anniversary...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

As this month’s magazine thuds down onto the area’s finest doormats, you really ought to find yours truly embarking on a Valentine’s Day charm offensive aimed squarely at the present Mrs Davis.

We’re both fine with this conspicuous lack of romance on the day itself, because we each recognise that real effort isn’t just about an extravagant annual gesture but genuine consideration and attention throughout the year.

No effort ought to be spared in making a restaurant booking, procuring a dozen red roses, purchasing the most embarrassingly large diamond, arranging fireworks and perhaps serenading her with chanson d’amour.

The same is true of running a restaurant. It’s no good having a great looking dining room or a lovely looking building presiding over a lacklustre offering of food, or failing to provide consistency. Happily, The Chubby Castor is mindbogglingly fabulous in every respect, from its great looking dishes with compelling flavours, to assiduous service and the very pretty looking building, both inside and out.

In reality though, she and I are rather laissez-faire about the whole thing, and will probably just grunt a begrudging greeting as we each head off to work.

Opposite: Scarlet prawns with soy mayo, £17. Above: Three Pacific rock oysters with chilli oil, nasturtium oil and smoked oil, £15.

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Dining Out

The Chubby Castor, near Peterborough À LA CARTE MENU £80/THREE COURSES ALL ABOUT THE SEA Imperial Caviar 10gr £25.

Ossetra Caviar 10gr £35.

Pacific Rock Oysters 3pcs £15.

Scarlet prawns, soy mayo £17.

STARTERS Lobster with mackerel bean cake, lobster bisque.

Loch Duart salmon with nori, beets, horseradish ice cream Braised neck of lamb with smoked aubergine and Alsace bacon Delica pumpkin tart with chili jam, winter truffle.

MAIN COURSE

Each element is prepared in the kitchen with bread, ice creams, sorbets and petit fours all made by the team It’s little wonder, then, that as the restaurant celebrated its sixth anniversary on 10th February, the place now enjoys a reputation for excellence and consistency that’s founded

Monkfish with cauliflower cous cous, Shetland mussels and curry velouté.

on owner Adebola Adeshina’s pedigree.

Sea Bass with crab agnolotti, fennel and sauce Vermouth.

Gordon Ramsay (at Maze and Aubergine)

Venison with sweet potato, hen-of-the-woods and chestnut.

Wiltshire beef Jacob’s Ladder with sand carrot, bone marrow mash.

DESSERTS Soufflé with pear, caraway, cider & cinnamon.

Chocolate with Castor honey, blood orange parfait, hazelnuts.

Rhubarb tart with vanilla custard and passion fruit.

Ade has worked in restaurants right up to three Michelin-star level, among chefs like and John Torode, in between working in prestigious kitchens like those of Claridges.

Samuel Johnson reckoned that ‘when a man tires of London, he tires of life.’ I reckon he just tires of crowded Underground trains and people refusing to engage in conversation with strangers, preferring to live somewhere prettier and substantially cheaper.

When Ade came to this conclusion he and partner Alina searched for a place to establish a new business and created The Chubby Castor in 2018. The idea was to offer the very best dining, with a smart but relaxed

Selection of British and French cheeses

atmosphere, offering a warm welcome and attentive service, but without those frightening London prices.

Petit fours served with ‘Essensia’ Orange Muscat.

In that respect Ade and his team, including

NB: This is a sample menu, and featured dishes are subject to availability and change.

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À la carte menus comprise four starter, four main course and four dessert options, for £80/head, whilst five-course and seven course tasting menus (the latter actually ends up providing about 10 courses with treats and palate cleansers) are available for £50/head and £105/head respectively.

Two flight of wine options are also available, and have been carefully chosen to suit the team’s daily-changing menus by the Chubby Castor’s sommelier, Stephen Andrei Neagu.

Dedicated plant-based tasting menus and non-alcoholic drinks pairings to accompany tasting menus are also available, which is a lovely touch to ensure the restaurant’s wonderful dining is available to all.

Each dish is prepared in the kitchen with everything from bread to ice creams and sorbets to petit fours made by the team.

Suppliers of butchery include Price & Fretwell and Owen Taylor of Derbyshire, Keltic Seafoot for lobster, oysters and prawns, and Gem Caviar which provides The Chubby Castor’s branded Ossetra caviar.

manager Sylwia Atton, Head Chef Cory White and his brigade, Pavel Vieru, Joe

Meanwhile Hallgarten and Cambridgeshire’s EJM wines have helped Stephen to curate a

Cooper and Jack Jennings really have surpassed themselves.

wine list in excess of 120 bottles plus some really special wines available by the glass.

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Opposite page: Bass with squid ink crab tortellini. This page: Selection of canapés including (top) beetroot tapioca with goat’s curd; smoked salmon & caviar, (middle) wild garlic pillow; chicken liver parfait, (bottom) smoked salmon mousse with broccoli & celeriac; Lincolnshire Poacher croquette with chilli aioli.

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Dining Out

A word, too, about the luxury dinnerware upon which our dishes are presented. It’s a design-led collection created as a partnership between Ade and Goodfellows, available to purchase if you’d like to give your own dishes a similar contemporary look.

Along with the smart stemware and neatly pressed table linens, including napkins bound in polished silver rings, the restaurant looks very lovely indeed. Adjacent to the dining room is the open kitchen, enabling diners to have a peek at the chefs as they work. It’s a very nice looking kitchen too, with dark granite surfaces and very shiny ranges, a bit posher than you’d expect from a usually more utilitarian-looking commercial kitchen!

As I hope we’re establishing here beyond any reasonable doubt, though, The Chubby Castor isn’t style without substance but rather a

dining room in which each dish has been meticulously presented but well-conceived in terms of ingredients and flavours too.

If you’re more romantically-inclined than my wife and I, there are very few places more conducive to Valentine’s Day dining, but with spring coming along soon too, we’ll also advise that to the rear of the restaurant is The Yard, which offers relaxed homemade bistro-style dishes under a covered and heated terrace.

Ade has worked with some of the country’s most well-known chefs, but at The Chubby Castor, he’s also brought to life his own vision, shared it with a diligent team and ensured that together, they offer one of the most polished, enjoyable and creative dining experiences in the area... it really is very wonderful and highly recommended!

Opposite: Apple sorbet with honeycomb and tuile. Blood orange sable.

Above: Ossetra caviar, 10g, with blinis and crème fraiche, £35.

The Chubby Castor, near Peterborough The Pitch: “A gourmet lovers magical mystery tour, by award winning Chef Adebola Adeshina and his talented team...”

Wednesday to Saturday 12.00pm ­ 2.30pm, 5.30pm ­ 9.30pm Sunday 12.00pm – 2.30pm Closed Sunday evening, Mondays & Tuesdays.

The Chubby Castor at The Fitzwilliam Arms, Peterborough Road, Castor PE5 7AX, call 01733 380 801 www.thechubbycastor.com.

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Recipe

Blueberry

LOAF with Lemon Glaze

Preparation Time: 20 minutes, then 60 mins baking time plus cooling.

225g unsalted butter, softened • 225g (1 cup) granulated sugar 4 large eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 300g plain flour 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon salt • Zest of 2 lemons 120ml whole milk • 200g fresh blueberries, washed and dried For the Lemon Glaze: 150g icing sugar • 3 freshly squeezed lemon juice plus the zest of 1 lemon

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Grease and flour a loaf tin.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Gently fold in the lemon zest and fresh blueberries until evenly distributed in the batter.

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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.

Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving, with optional garnishes of blueberries and with cream.

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Wine of the Month

Say yes ‘peas’ to a non-alcoholic spirit with a difference

We’re quite partial to a really good Châteauneuf­du­Pape, but they are rather pricy when they appear on restaurants’ wine lists.

Happily this example weighs in at much less than you’ll pay when dining out, so put your feet up in front of an open fire and enjoy a smooth, fragrant full­bodied red.

Outstanding wine evocative of the rolling hills and the stony terroir of the Rhône.

A trio of non-alcoholic spirits, but Seedlip’s Garden 108 is intriguing Seedlip is careful to ensure its products are not described as non­alcoholic gins, since there’s no juniper base.

Interestingly, though, peas, hay, hops and rosemary & thyme help to provide its fresh taste.

Citrus and spice versions are also available. £22 / 70cl / 0% ABV seedlipdrinks.com

The Wine Cellar A trio of wines from the Chablis appelation making the most of Chardonnay grapes, plus an intriguing non-alcoholic spirit and a really top notch whisky made in collaboration with Stella McCartney...

Chablis-lutely Fabulous: Chardonnay at its best...

Great value Chablis boasting a rich minerality with crunchy orchard fruit notes, hints of citrus fruit and fern. £16.50 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV, www.tesco.com.

Mid­range organic Chablis from Les Domaines Brocard, redolent of crisp, clean Chardonnay minerality. £19.99 / 75cl / 13.9% ABV, www.waitrosecellar.com.

Push the boat out with this Montée de Tonnerre, 1er Cru from Berry Bros & Rudd, or lay down until 2026­2028. £50 / 75cl / 13% ABV, www.bbr.com.

£25 / single; £150 / six, 75cl, 14.5% From Marks & Spencer.

Stella McCartney and Macallan in harmony Third release in collaboration with Stella & Mary McCartney for Macallan distillery...

The third release in Macallan’s Harmony Collection has been created in collaboration with Stella and Mary McCartney to celebrate the fertile lands of Scotland.

Rich warm citrus and barley with seasoned oak and bourbon casks providing a warm and distinct joyful character. £160 / 75cl 44.2% ABV themacallan.com

Our featured wines are available from local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary.

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Welcome Home

Welland House It’s beautifully presented, versatile and it’s located in wonderful grounds, next to the historic Welland Viaduct from which it takes its name... this month’s featured property is something very special indeed!

Words: Rob Davis.

Welland House really will be looking at its best this month. It’s owned by Debbie and Steve Waterworth.

The former is an artist who works mostly in oils, favouring contemporary botanical portraits of flowers.

landscaped the gardens and planted thousands upon thousands of spring bulbs from daffodils to tulips, alliums, hyacinth and crocus, not to mention the drifts of snowdrops when we spoke to the couple.

Given the motivation for her work, (examples of which can be seen throughout the house) Debbie felt it was prudent to have a lot of inspiration close by. Therefore when the couple moved in back in April 2017, they

Welland House dates back to 1745, and it’s set within an acre of grounds right next to the Welland Viaduct.

Like the grounds themselves and the setting of the house, the property’s interiors also look rather wonderful.

In 2014, Welland House was subject to a redevelopment under its previous owner who took the place to second fix stage, enabling Debbie and Steve to move in and put their own mark on the property, which they’ve done very successfully indeed.

Created in local stone and topped in slate, the property has an oak canopy over its front door with oak and limestone floors throughout, plus large bespoke windows for plenty of

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Welcome Home “The heart of the home is the ground floor’s open plan living space with an entrance hall and dining area...” natural light as well as Gent glass staircases, all contributing to the property’s bright and modern feel.

Arranged over two floors, the heart of the home is the ground floor’s open plan living space with an entrance hall and dining area. Overlooking the viaduct, it leads to a large kitchen, living room area and stairs leading to a mezzanine level.

The south-east wing of the property has a large sitting room with oak beams and log burner, as well as a study which is now all but redundant given Steve’s recent retirement from his career in IT. At the opposite end of the house, there’s a utility and laundry room plus a room currently used as a studio for Debbie’s art, but alternatively an ideal candidate for a downstairs bedroom.

The other downstairs bedroom next door is currently used as a boot room, with a built-in hidden bed for guests and its own en suite.

From the entrance hall, the staircase leads to a first floor art library and a master bedroom with en suite, dressing room and Juliet balcony.

There are two further bedrooms each with en suites, offering up to six bedrooms, depending on how you configure the spaces.

The open plan kitchen is the beating heart of the home, with its solid cabinetry created by Wychwood Cabinet Makers painted in French Grey and a Stiffkey Blue shade, to match the electric Total Control Aga. The kitchen has quartz surfaces in white with a slight sparkle, plus a Quooker boiling water tap, and premium appliances by brands like Fisher & Paykel, Miele and Bosch.

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“We don’t hear the trains because of the viaduct’s elevation, but we’ve seen a few impressive steam trains like the Flying Scotsman!”

The kitchen also features a sitting room and a staircase leading to the mezzanine level ideal as a TV lounge, study, library or a lair for teenagers, but currently put to good use as Steve’s music room.

It features 20th century design-led furniture from the couple’s Eames chair as well as more modern pieces

by Ligne Roset and contemporary love seat from Moooi: Stamford’s NGI is a place in which the couple find a good deal of design inspiration.

As for other furniture, such as the fitted pantry or the bookcase in the art library, Steve has designed and built those himself!

A more recent addition to Welland House, too recent to be reflected in our photos in fact, is the kitchen garden adjacent to the oak-framed greenhouse. With six raised beds, it’s ideal for those hoping to get their growing going in 2024.

Upon moving in to the property the couple removed the oppressive 50ft leylandii to open up the gardens.

They’ve also planted ginko, cherries and autumn glories among the more venerable cypress, fir and willow trees as well as an impressive 400-year old oak tree. A wildlife pond has helped to encourage many wild and wonderful visitors including a resident cuckoo, woodpeckers and foxes as well as the odd muntjac.

The wildlife don’t seem perturbed by the twice-daily trains making their way across the viaduct’s 82 arches, 60ft up in the air, and neither do the trains disturb Debbie or Steve.

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Welcome Home “We don’t hear them as they’re above

natural light into the property, which

us, so any sound dissipates quite

is lovely when I’m in the studio with

effectively... in fact its very peaceful

good coffee on the go.”

generally, as we are set back from the village. On occasions when a particular well-known locomotive is due to pass over the viaduct we’ve been known to go onto the roof

Aside from art, music and gardening, the couple’s other keen interest is overlanding in their beloved Land Rover with its roof tent.

terrace above the art library to view

Now that Steve has retired and with

them as they pass over.”

family up in Yorkshire, the couple are

“We’re looking forward to spring when all of the bulbs begin to make an appearance and there’s lots of new growth,” says Debbie. “But before that we’re also to hoping get a little

relocating northwards, and have put Welland House on the market in anticipation of adventures to Debbie’s native Scotland and trips around Europe in the Landy.

covering of snow too because Welland

The couple leave behind a property

House under a white blanket is one of

that’s beautifully presented, practical

my favourite sights.”

and versatile... inevitably, its next

“There are near 360° views around

owners will absolutely love the place!

the house and when there’s snow on

NB: Debbie’s artwork can be viewed at

the ground it reflects even more

instagram.com/debbiewaterworth

Welland House, Harringworth Location: Uppingham 5 miles.

Provenance: Limestone country house dating back to 1745, renovated in 2014.

Rooms: Open plan kitchen, dining, living room.

Mezzanine, sitting room.

Up to six bedrooms, depending on configuration.

Guide Price: £1,500,000.

Find Out More: Pelham James, Oakham LE15 7GH. 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk.

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PROPERTY FINDERS

The Great Property Balance Kate Vincent from Garrington Property Finders considers the challenges of buying and selling property in tandem and how best to make it work.

Buyers who register with selling agents are often asked if they are in a position ‘to proceed’. This industry term refers to buyers who are ready and able to move, with finance arranged and either no property to sell or at the very least, are under offer and the sale is progressing nicely. To put themselves in this optimum position some homebuyers in recent years sold and moved into a rental property but for many, this skip and a hop is undesirable. As a result, most homebuyers are relying on the traditional approach of marketing their home whilst looking for another, in the hope that the two align and proceed consecutively.

The challenge with this completely understandable approach is that you are at the mercy of the current market climate.

So how do you navigate selling and buying at the same time?

A quick look at the property portals will probably suggest that there are very few special, rightly priced properties on the market. This inevitably worries homeowners because if they market their home and sell it quickly, they may not be able to find

somewhere themselves. Whilst this concern is understandable, the harsh reality is that if a buyer wants to be taken seriously and have a good chance of securing that special next home, they must at the very least, have their property on the market.

Communicate your plans clearly from the outset When selling your property with the intention of buying another, it is advisable to communicate clearly from the outset with your selling agent that any sale will be dependent on your onward purchase. During any negotiations you can stipulate that you will not complete on your sale until your next property has been secured. With this clear directive, a selling agent can then advise those interested in buying your home, managing expectations to enable productive discussions and offers from buyers who are aware of your objectives.

Get the best help and advice Once you receive an acceptable offer, an experienced and proactive solicitor can be an invaluable asset to help align the transactions and proactively work with the other solicitors to proceed at a mutually convenient pace.

A professional property finder will act solely in your best interests, assisting with sourcing a property, whilst overseeing communications between parties and ensuring things move forward in a timely manner to your benefit.

For those planning to move who have been unsuccessful in their search, it is worth noting that a buying agent will often have access to off-market properties.

If you are struggling to find your next property to buy and would value some independent advice, Garrington offer a commitment free meeting so please get in touch without obligation:

Kate Vincent Garrington

Tel. 01780 408377.

Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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Interiors

Spring Interiors Fresh ideas for updating your home this season, from the area’s best interior design specialists and their newest collections...

New from Prestigious Textiles’ woodblock­style Greenhouse collection. Cushions in Boughton, Elsham and Ragley, chair in Hattie. Curtains in Wollerton. Fennel/Cornflower colours, cushions/curtains made to order by Hunters Interiors, Stamford, 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

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Interiors

Top/Left: Oundle Navy, matte water­based eco­paint, part of a new collection comprising 12 colours from Sophie Allport, call 01778 560256 or see www.sophieallport.com. Top/Right: Delcor’s Valentina upholstered divan, call 01780 762579, www.delcor.co.uk.

Above: Cushions made to order by Hunters Interiors, Stamford, 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

Opposite: Room design from Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors, 01572 722345, www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk.

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Interiors

William Yeoward spring/summer 2024 fabrics. Curtains/Cushion: Kalan in indigo, available at Sarah Harding Interiors, Uppingham, 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

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Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you

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

Visit our showroom 01780 757946 See our website www.huntersinteriors.co.uk

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Homes

The Difference is

Delcor

Based in Stamford, there’s a difference with Delcor that customers really appreciate when searching for a new sofa, chair or upholstered bed. All of the company’s designs are completely bespoke from frame to fabric, ensuring you achieve the soft furnishings that are just right for your room...

Below: New to Delcor is the Fontaine sofa, wonderfully comfortable with deep seating and pillow­edged back cushions. Available in medium, large and extra­large sizes. Current starting price £2,219.

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Homes

A

sofa or chair you’ll settle on, not settle for... that’s the approach of Delcor, based in Northumberland and with a destination showroom on Stamford’s Baths Row. The company’s products are bespoke from frame to fabric, which means if you want you your preferred sofa, chair or upholstered bed to be a few centimetres higher, wider, deeper... the company can accommodate your every whim.

Since 1967, the company has advocated British made quality, an approach expressed today with all of the company’s frames still made from beech timber, hand-cut and underwritten by a 50-year guarantee. The company even offers a refurbishment service for when, a few decades down the line, you might want a refresh.

The Delcor experience begins with a showroom consultation where you can try out different styles, experience different fillings - from springy to squidgy – and then see and feel different fabrics from leading designers whose collections can also be used to create curtains and other soft furnishings, ensuring you can achieve a cohesive looking scheme for your room, with a sofa you’re proud of as its centrepiece. The company also prides itself on consultation, not commission, promising a relaxed and pressure-free experience.

Top: Magnum sofa is a classic Knole­style design with modern comfort. Shown here in Linwood Arcadia Winterbourne, starting price from £3,277 available in sizes, medium, large and extra­large. Above: Deco chair is a new take on a classic wing chair. With fluted back detail and modern minimalist style legs. Shown here in Warwick plush velvet in airforce colourway, starting price currently £1,585.

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Homes

Based in the Stamford showroom, and offering a warm welcome is the appropriately named Andrea Bienvenue, who says: “I love the brand because it embodies traditional principles like quality and craftsmanship.”

“Our designs are built to last and so they become cherished by their owners. We design and craft all our luxury sofas and armchairs ourselves, combining classical design history with the best of contemporary styles.”

“In our Northumberland workshop, we then hand-make each piece individually using specialist skills perfected over generations, so you can enjoy your very own British-made furniture that will last a lifetime.”

“We cut and build the frames ourselves by hand, individually, so nothing is pre-cut or off-the-peg.”

“We believe in doing things properly and that’s why we’re able to happily guarantee all our frames for half a century.”

“Likewise, we retain the traditional skills that a business like Delcor needs because of our refusal to compromise on quality. It’s a value that we all share and respect.”

“Many of our master craftspeople have been with us for 20 to 30 years. They stay with us for decades because they take great pride in their work – they love to work with the finest materials and make things of real beauty.”

“Their dedication and experience mean they’re proud to put their names to every made-to-measure piece that leaves the workshop, and in turn it means our customers love the experience as much as they love their furnishings.”

Above: Welsey Armchair in Riga, Fox. Below: Atlas sofa in Prestigious Textiles Flynn, a Scandi­style sofa with inclusive side cushions and modern styling. Available in medium, large and extra­large sizes.

Current starting price £2,145.

Delcor crafts its British sofas, chairs and upholstered beds to your exact requirements from its Northumberland workshops. The company has five destination showrooms across Britain including one on Stamford’s Bath Row. For a no­obligation design discussion and to see examples of the company’s work, visit Delcor on Bath Row, Stamford, PE9 2QX, call 01780 762579 or see www.delcor.co.uk.

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Professional Interior Design Service Re-Upholstery and Soft Furnishings

Image: Sanderson Fabric

6 MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH 01572 823389 www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

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INSPIRATIONAL SPACES READY FOR SUMMER

01780 756666 enquiries@qks-ltd.co.uk qks-ltd.co.uk

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Homes & Interiors

Striking Lighting Specialists in designer lighting both indoors and outdoors, as well as architectural ironmongery for doors and windows, Broughtons of Leicester presents some of their most striking design-led lighting products

Tracing its origins back to 1888, Broughtons of Leicester is a family-owned business specialising in period accessories for doors and windows plus interior and exterior lighting at impressive showrooms in Anstey.

Here we’ve picked a few of our favourite products from the company’s portfolio of designer lighting products.

Opposite Page: Saddler by David Hunt (www.davidhuntlighting.co.uk) is an eight-light cartwheel pendant, £684; Author table lamp, £276; Hopper table lamp, £252. Top Left: Flambeau Mosaic 10 light chandelier, £303.

Top Right: Dachshund table lamp vintage gold, £96.Above Left: Blenheim Lantern in black, £475.

Above Right: Balance pendant in brown/brass, £178.

Broughtons is based on Cropston Road, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7BP. Call 0116 234 1888 or see www.broughtons.com.

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Gardens

A Celebration of

SPRING The parkland of Burghley House looks superb at any time of year, but with the opening of its gardens for spring, the grounds have a special charm in March Words: Rob Davis.

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Gardens

N

estling on the edge of town, it’s easy to take Burghley House’s grounds for granted, overlooking what’s right there on our doorstep. But at this time of year when winter gives way to spring and we’re all enduring a little cabin fever, we can think of few better places to enjoy a walk.

Whilst the Burghley estate itself comprises somewhere in the region of 2,000 acres, the 12-acre sculpture gardens and 28-acre south gardens are magnificent examples of a formal garden designed to look beautiful in spring… especially against the backdrop of a Capability Brown-landscaped parkland.

The estate itself, remember, was created by Sir William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley, between 1555 and 1587 at a cost of £21,000 (about £9m in today’s money) and was modelled on Richmond Palace. It was when the 9th Earl inherited the estate in 1754 that he enlisted Capability Brown to embark on a 20-year remodelling of the estate’s parkland.

Brown was a land agent who took on his first landscaping commissions around 1740. He’d complete around 170 projects around the country including work at Bourne’s Grimsthorpe Castle, Leicestershire’s Belvoir Castle, Blenheim Palace, Hampton Court and Highclere Castle. Around 30 of his landscapes are still open to the public, and his work continued, latterly alongside a full-time partner and his new son-in-law, Henry Holland.

Capability Brown favoured impressive vistas, ‘avenues’ and lines of trees pointing to landmarks, and large lakes. At Burghley he dug out the Serpentine Lake between 1756 and 1780, cleverly siting the lake over a seam of blue clay and enlarging a nine-acre pond to the current 26-acre lake, with a meandering river running through it.

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An additional feature was the creation of the Lion Bridge seen in many iconic images of Burghley and used as a water obstacle in the Horse Trials, which was commissioned by Brown at a cost of £1,000 guineas.

The South Gardens of Burghley are designed to afford the best views of the Capability Brown landscape and afford wonderful views of the lake, Lion Bridge and the Park beyond, as well as the gothic Summer House.

He also demolished a single-story, northwest wing of the building to create the north courtyard and created the Orangery, adjacent to which is the central fountain and small but pretty rose garden with its David Austen blooms.

The South Gardens are usually closed to visitors but throughout the year, open for groups such as the NGS and for local charity the Evergreen Care Trust, established in 2005 to provide both paid-for and voluntary services for older or vulnerable people.

Spring time sees swathes of snowdrops and daffodils, designed to provide an injection of formality into Brown’s sweeping vistas.

The gardens are dominated by some spectacular trees, the most prominent being the large-leafed lime on the west, believed to be from an original planted in the 16th century and the mature oak, planted by Queen Victoria during her visit in 1844.

2007 saw the opening of the estate’s sculpture gardens, enclosed with yew

hedging and designed to serve as an open-air gallery with sculptural works on display from 30 different artists and meandering natural pathways planted with wildflowers.

Around the same time, work began creating the Gardens of Surprise, a gift to the estate from Lady Victoria Leatham as she handed over custodianship of Burghley to Miranda Rock and her family.

The Gardens of Surprise were given a makeover in 2018 with around 32 features from obelisks to small sculptures.

Burghley House’s grounds, its South Gardens and the property itself open from 16th March… and we can think of few better times for enjoying the estate!

Find Out More: The South Gardens of Burghley House will reopen for the season from 16th March, see burghley.co.uk.

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Cycling

Two legs good, Two wheels better!

What better way to take in the majesty of the reservoir than with a sortie around its perimeter under pedal power...?

Words: Rob Davis.

Distance: 8 to 23 miles, depending on the route you choose.

Route: See map overleaf.

How to Get There: Whitwell, LE15 8BL. More Information: www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk.

Apparently, life begins at 40. For a certain county magazine editor though – now 44 years young – all that particular milestone yielded was a bit of middle-age spread.

Happily the team had a great idea for how to get me out in the fresh air and stunning countryside of Rutland. Having mentioned the popularity of Rutland with walkers and cyclists on many occasions, I must confess to have skirted around the issue a little for fear of getting dragged into physical exercise and so, thus far in my career as the editor of the area’s biggest and best county magazine, I’ve avoided all but a very gentle little stroll around the reservoir with the family.

Now though, it was time to tackle the proverbial full monty, hiring cycles from Rutland Cycling and embarking on a sortie around the water with my publisher and his family cracking the whip behind me.

Cycling around Rutland is a piece of cake even for those unfamiliar with the area, since it’s pretty much a circular route.

What’s convenient about the reservoir, too, is that it affords a number of routes so that those who haven’t cycled for a while, or those with youngsters can start off on the Family Trail which is a fairly easy eight miles beginning at Normanton and heading anti-clockwise to Whitwell.

The peninsular trail is 15 miles and begins at Whitwell, heading anti-clockwise to Oakham, then looping the peninsular before heading back to Whitwell incorporating both roads and a few hills.

The more fit among us may be inclined to try the full Rutland Water lap, which is 23 miles in distance and can begin at Whitwell or Normanton before following the route right around – clockwise or anticlockwise, it’s your choice. The full route includes the peninsular, but omitting the village of Hambleton does enable you to slightly shorten the route to 17 miles.

On the subject of being in your 40s, Rutland Cycling was established in 1981, initially at Whitwell and then on the south shore.

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Cycling

Today, the company has a total of 14 stores in the region, and its founders Dave & Ann Archer’s son Paul and CEO Karen Archer now run the business.

families are more likely to be walking cycling or taking the dog around the water; Rutland Water does feel very busy in the summer months.

Since the business was founded, over one million people have hired bikes to embark on a tour of Rutland Water, and happily it’s not only the business that has matured but the bikes themselves.

Having surprised myself by how enjoyable a cycle around Rutland Water can be, there’s also time to mention the bit that I was confident I’d enjoy too, the aprés cycle; to wit, the numerous pubs and lunchtime venues around the route.

Ours featured power-assistance, which helped to ease the wheeze on the route’s uphill bits. Having scarcely been on a bike since my school days, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the company’s hire fleet was, clearly built to last and not made to a price point as you’d expect from a child’s bike purchased at an automotive and cycling store.

lots of fun along the way with a few mini-races along the route.

Joining us on the trip were our publisher’s two teenagers, Harvey and Joseph, but happily all of us managed to keep up with one another and more importantly, have

One note of caution is to be aware when the routes are more likely to be occupied by serious cycling enthusiasts – earlier in the morning, later in the evening – and when

One of the nicest elements of cycling around the reservoir is that you can not only choose a route suited to your fitness and inclination, but also take as much time as you want and stop regularly.

The best activity for fitness is the one you don’t find a chore, and in this respect, being able to enjoy a drink along the way at the Horse & Jockey at Manton or dinner and a rest at The Barnsdale makes the business or getting the editor back in shape a good deal easier!

For more information see www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk or www.rutlandcycling.com.

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Out with the

Bold The end of an era for Jaguar with a special edition sports car that stands out as the last car the company will ever make with a combustion engine... and there are some distinct nods to the legendary E-Type of the 1960s

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Motors

Apparently all good things must come to an end, including sports cars from Jaguar.

From the XK120 and XK150 to the legendary E-Type, and the XJ coupé and convertible of the 1970s and 1980s, to the XK... keep tracing the lineage of Jaguar sports cars and you’ll end up here, at Jaguar’s F-Type.

Not to be confused with its F-Pace SUV, the F-Type launched a decade ago and the car has thus far escaped the inexorable rise of electrification. Alas, the spiritual successor to the E-Type is to cease production this year as Jaguar reinvents itself as a ‘modern luxury all-electric brand’ after 75 years of sports car production.

Jaguar’s E-Pace and F-Pace SUVs are competing against sister products from the Land Rover and Range Rover brands in the same showrooms, so Jaguar has to establish a point of difference, i.e.: a more luxurious stable of limos and sports cars, not 4x4s.

At the same time, Jaguar is phasing out internal combustion engines (ICE), making this final version of the F-Type its last ever ICE sports car.

Badged the ZP edition only 150 examples of the car will be produced. Coupé and roadster versions will be produced and two special colours will be available; Oulton Blue and Crystal Grey, featuring red and ebony twotone leather or navy blue and ebony leather respectively. The cars will sit on 20” alloy wheels and feature ‘black pack’ highlights.

Apart from making a decision as to whether to go topless, and choosing from blue or grey, there’s not much else to wrangle over with the 5.0V8 supercharged engine generating 700Nm torque and 575ps power, enabling the car to reach 186mph on a closed race track and reaching 60mph in just 3.5 seconds.

There is a problem, though. The F-Type remains, and has always been, a sports car rather than a more luxurious Grand Tourer, but even the standard version of the car (badged R-Dynamic) features a Meridian

surround sound entertainment system, powered panoramic roof or convertible roof, heated seats, screen and steering wheel.

Even with that car’s less-potent P300 engine and rear wheel drive, it’ll still reach 60mph in 5.6 seconds and costs under £68,000.

That makes the ZP150 Edition hard to justify with the head; it’s twice the price for not a great deal more car. Like a wine that you can lay down in the cellar, the ZP150 will be of interest to enthusiasts in the future, but as an ownership proposition, the standard car will give almost as much enjoyment with a more reasonable investment.

The Details

Jaguar F-Type Price: £134,925 (coupé); £138,390 (roadster).

Powertrain: 5.0V8 Supercharged petrol engine, all­wheel drive, eight­speed automatic gearbox, 700Nm torque, 575ps.

Top speed 186mph (limited), 0­60mph 3.5 seconds.

Standard Equipment: Two colour choices with corresponding leather, heated electric seats with heated steering wheel, keyless entry, climate control, 20” wheels.

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Fashion

Bag Influence Luxury accessories in powder blue to ensure storage with style...

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Opposite: Gucci Horsebit chain small shoulder bag, £ 2,630, see www.gucci.com. Above: Alma BB Bag, £2,200, www.uk.louisvuitton.com.

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Above: Miss Dior chain pouch cloud blue cannage lambskin, £2,000. www.dior.com.

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Top Left: Moon cut­out bag with chain, £763, www.givenchy.com. Top Right: Lily heavy grain bag, £1,095, www.mulberry.com.

Bottom Left: Prada Saffiano leather bag, £3,000, www.prada.com. Bottom Right: Bracelet Pouch in nappa, £1,100, www.loewe.com.

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Cosmetics

Spring Blossoms Collagen-powered products and anti-ageing moisturisers too, ensuring fresh, healthy looking skin in spring and summer...

Wind Flowers

by Creed Inspired by the strength and grace of modern femininity.

Wind Flowers Eau De Parfum is a beautiful and sparkling floral fragrance, opening with sweet jasmine, with peach and a soft rose heart and base notes comprising sandalwood, iris and musk.

The result is a beautiful, dusky, spring fragrance. £165, 30ml, www.creed fragrances.co.uk.

Plumping Collagen Oil Enhance lips using the natural power of collagen, with Rodial’s high­shine lip oil enriched with nourishing botanical extracts that help to visibly plump, hydrated lips, £29, 4ml, from www.johnlewis.com.

Lumene Nordic Bloom From Finnish brand Lumene comes Nordic Bloom, which helps to smooth the under eye area with three types of hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen, to hydrate and diminish fine lines, £26.90, 10ml, johnlewis.com.

The Rich Moisturiser Targeting the delicate under eye area, MZ Skin’s Rich Moisturiser decreases signs of ageing and smoothes uneven texture with peptide­enhanced collagen and HLA, £105, 14ml, www.harrods.com.

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A hero product for ensuring hydration through spring...

Angela Langford’s Thirsty Work is an anti­ageing moisturiser drawing on raspberry and rosehip to provide superb hydration and elasticity. Don’t just take our word for it though; Angela’s website offers free skincare samples at angelalangford.com. £37.50 / 50ml.

The benefits of collagen from the inside out Captivated by collagen? Then take a look at The Skin Rejuvenator duo from Advanced Nutrition Programme.

30­day system that aims to activate your skin’s collagen for visible anti­ageing results, courtesy of Skin Collagen Support with Skin friendly Omegas+.

£50, 30 day supplements (60+60 capsules), Available from www.harveynichols.com.

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

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Co fin mf Wi d ort th ou ab In t a le vis bo , e ali ut ffe gn th ctiv te i s e et re an h s vo d tr lu di aig tio sc h na ree ten ry t in tr – ca g: ea l tm l u en s to t

R YO EDI UR SCO SM VE IL R E

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Teeth Straightening: Discover your smile again using the latest Invisalign technology: removable aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. Comfortable, discreet and removable, you can eat and drink, brush and floss as usual as you gradually achieve a straight, natural smile.

Teeth Whitening: A simple way to transform your smile, improving the overall appearance of your teeth, and bringing a youthful bright smile.

Dental Implants: A safe, well-established way to replace a tooth when it fails, restoring your smile in a permanent, effective way.

New Patients: Going to the dentist shouldn’t be a daunting experience. We take the time to help you feel relaxed and comfortable whilst we care for both your health and appearance.

The Green Oakham Dental Care philosophy is really simple. We are committed to providing you with high quality, personalised dental care...

Call 01572 755260

High Street Oakham LE15 6AS MONDAY 08:30-18:30 TUESDAY 08:30-17:00 WEDNESDAY 08:30- 18:30 THURSDAY 08:30-17:00

FRIDAY 08:30-17:00 SATURDAY CONSULTATIONS

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY SUNDAY CLOSED

www.greenoakhamdentalcare.co.uk

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Bone Joint Pain or Sports Injuries Our specialist team deliver high quality diagnostics and treatment for Shoulder and Elbow, Hand and Wrist, Spinal, Hip and Knee and Foot and Ankle.

For more information and appointments please call: 01733 842 304 or visit:

.co.uk .co.uk

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Health

Rediscover Your

SMILE A great looking smile can improve the way you look, but more importantly, it can provide lots of self-confidence. A consultation this month with Grantham’s Dental Health Centre will start you on the journey to a brand new smile, giving you a spring in your step this season Words: Rob Davis.

We’ve all met people who take proper pride in their work; real, profound pleasure. Well, Colin Sutton of Grantham’s Dental Health Centre is just such a person, and one of the best rewards in his role is his ability to watch his patients walk out of the door with a new-found confidence and an enthusiasm for their smile.

It’s an especially joyful experience when patients previously reported a phobia of the dentist or that they’ve avoided a regular check-up because the thought of being in the chair elicits a shudder of discomfort.

If the latter sounds like you, you’re overdue to discover new dentistry; patient-centred, pain-free and with new treatment options designed to make achieving a healthy smile easier, quicker and more reliably than ever.

Central to the Dental Health Centre’s ethos is ensuring patients feel comfortable and happy enough in the chair to return for regular check-ups and appointments with the hygienist, ensuring a healthy base for any future elective work.

A modern practice has an array of treatments available to patients, and whilst they’re truly transformative, it’s a good idea to have some advice from somebody who truly understands the implications of each option, and what patients can expect from them.

For that reason, the Dental Health Centre has a treatment coordinator to provide a relaxed, patient-centric consultation.

A truly patient-centric experience is central to the Dental Health Centre’s ethos...

This means anyone considering treatments like implants, crowns, veneers or whitening can make an informed decision and remain really enfranchised in their health.

Patients can talk through their aims and any concerns, and they can be guided towards appropriate treatments with a relaxed and pressure-free consultation.

Colin and his team his team have a special interest in the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as permanent crowns, veneers or onlays created on the same-day with Cerec, which takes a 3D image of your teeth then utilises a milling machine to custom-make a quality restoration which is a sub-millimetre-perfect replacement.

Another treatment is Invisalign, which utilises incremental aligners to gradually ‘train’ your teeth into position, enabling the adjustment of overcrowding, widely-spaced teeth of other issues previously corrected using braces... and Invisalign, as its name suggests, remains inconspicuous all through your treatment.

For the last 23 years, Colin has provided implants, using the latest techniques, to ensure a natural look and feel, plus long lasting durability. For multiple missing teeth All-on-4 immediate implantation is a highly effective treatment which can prove really transformative in terms of appearance and confidence... ensuring that anyone can enjoy a new smile and a confident outlook in 2024.

Find Out More: The Dental Health Centre & Implant Centre is based on Avenue Road, Grantham, NG31 6TA. Call 01476 594480 or see www.dentalhealthcentre.co.uk to enquire about the practice’s range of treatments.

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Weddings

Rain Beaus A bit of rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of this month’s couple, who celebrated their day in a tipi near Rutland Water, with everyone welcome!

Images: Gina Fernandes Photography, www.ginafernandesphotography.co.uk.

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You’d think that the end of August would be a reasonably safe time to plan a wedding, in terms of the climate. When Laura and Tom went to the register office the Wednesday before their wedding reception, the sun shone and the party retired to a beer garden afterwards.

But a bit of rain didn’t dampen the spirits of this month’s couple. Quite the opposite in fact.

Tom works in the financial services

“We’d have hoped for better weather but actually the rain ended up making it better because everyone just got into the spirit, laughed it off and just had a great time,” says Laura.

Dorset and is a fashion buyer.

Frustratingly, it wasn’t the same that weekend when the couple had planned their tipi wedding reception on the edge of Rutland Water in the village of Hambleton.

“If you plan a wedding in a marquee or a tipi it’s a risk you take and you can either stress about something you can’t change or just have fun... we chose to do the latter!”

lived with friends, the two moved

profession

and

was

raised

in

Leicestershire, whilst Laura is from Both met whilst skiing in France, introduced by mutual friends before getting together in London, where they both lived at the time. Having back to the area and a proposal ensued on a return visit to the couple’s favourite ski destination back in March 2020.

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Weddings

Laura made her way to Halfmoon Farm in the vintage Mini restored for her by her father The couple rejected the idea of a conventional wedding indoors with a view to hosting a reception in a tipi more reflecting their sense of fun.

They were impressed with Sami Tipis, based in Derbyshire but still needed some land.

Fortunately, both Laura and Tom enjoy walking in the Rutland countryside and were enjoying a walk around Hambleton when they noticed that the village’s Halfmoon Farm is available for bespoke events. Farmer Tom was really helpful and the couple were able to create their reception in a lovely spot adjacent to the water, one that even the weather couldn’t spoil.

Next on the list of really good finds was Anthony’s Catering, which was able to take a menu from Tom’s favourite tapas restaurant in London

and create a bespoke wedding breakfast in the same style.

Being in fashion, Laura had a good idea of what she wanted her dress to look like and was able to find the perfect ethical wedding dress from the brand Grace Loves Lace, relatively unknown in the UK but much-loved in the US and Australia. The men, meanwhile, wore tailoring from Esclot Tailoring in London with pristine white trainers.

Nobody was left out, even the couple’s gorgeous cockapoo Gili was part of the day, and Laura made her way to the church in the vintage Mini that her father restored for her when she passed her driving test.

“It was a really fun day with toffee vodka shots during the speeches, lots of games and lots of fun!” says Laura.

Local Suppliers Tipi: Sami Tipis, 01332 806040, www.samitipi.co.uk.

Land: Halfmoon Farm, Hambleton, halfmoonfarm.co.uk.

Wedding Dress: Grace Loves Lace, graceloveslace.co.uk.

Wedding Hair: Chloe Cross Hair, Market Harborough.

Makeup: Haley Marie, 07852 133546.

Wedding Flowers: The Bloom Project, Leicester, 0116 319 7448,www.thebloomproject.co.uk.

Musician: Benji Williams, www.benjiwilliams.co.uk.

Wedding Band: Hatchland, entertainment­nation.co.uk.

Celebrant: Jodie Blowfield, the Boho Celebrant, www.jodiethebohocelebrant.com.

Photographer: www.ginafernandesphotography.co.uk.

Videographer: www.pristinevideography.com.

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The Directory To advertise here call our friendly team on 01529 469977.

james@jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk Call or WhatsApp

07514 829945 FOR PERSONAL & BUSINESS FINANCE James Murray –FINANCE _

www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk

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