Rutland Pride April 2019 by Pride Magazines Ltd

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RUTLAND’S FINEST MAGAZINE

Spend Easter in Rutland Family activities and celebrations

Burley on the Hill

A Magnificent Palladian Mansion

Dining Out in Spring The area’s best restaurants

£4.50

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WELCOME

s spring coming and what’s it like? Posed the writer Frances Hodgson Burnett in her children’s book, The Secret Garden. “It is the sun shining on the rain and the rain falling on the sunshine...” replied her character Mary. Quite so. I don’t mind a little rain - April is supposed to be the month for showers, after all - but please, mother nature, intersperse those showers with a little sunshine. As I write this in early February temperatures remain baltic and skies remain grey, save for the ever-so-occasional sliver of sunshine, peeping through the murk. And oh my goodness, what a welcome sight it is. To celebrate the coming of blue skies and pretty gardens, we enjoy an exclusive interview with Burghley House’s Miranda Rock to find out about the highlights of the stately home’s 2019 season. We also meet Adam Frost and ask for his advice on creating a kitchen garden this season, and find out the story behind Burley on the Hill’s Palladian mansion. Elsewhere we’ve spring dining from top local restaurants, delicious ideas for enjoying local asparagus, spring home ideas and much more besides. With best wishes for a great month,

Executive Editor rob@pridemagazines.co.uk

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ConTEnTS nEWS & EvEnTS

HoMES & InTERIoRS

WHAT’S ON Rutland and Stamford’s best events for families at Easter.

HIGHlIGHTS 26 34

NEWS A roundup of good news stories from across the area for April.

MY TOWN An exclusive interview with Burghley’s House Director Miranda Rock.

LUXURY BRAND Fabergé eggs, for a really rewarding Easter egg hunt.

EYE IN THE SKY A bird’s-eye view of

Burley on the Hill’s Palladian mansion.

Food & dRInk 52 62 67

DINING OUT A roundup of local restaurants’ spring dishes. RECIPES Local asparagus.

WINE A toast to world Malbec day.

WELCOME HOME A country property on the market now.

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GARDENING Curating a productive kitchen garden is easy with help and advice from Stamford’s Adam Frost.

SPRING INTERIORS Interior design, rugs and quality set in stone.

lAdIES & GEnTlEMEn 120 WEDDINGS Melissa and Aaron 129

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FASHION Blush fashions for this season’s

marry at Exton’s Fort Henry.

special occasions with John Charles.

BEAUTY Spring skincare with a blue hue.

142 MISCELLANY April trivia.

147 THE HIGH LIFE Opera with

Nevill Holt at Hambleton Hall.

152 MOTORS Porsche’s Macan SUV.

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THE WEAlTHIEST PEoPlE In THE AREA REAd PRIdE MAGAzInE

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

THE lIFESTylE MAGAzInE FoR HIGH QuAlITy HoMES

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

lEGAl dISClAIMER

By supplying editorial or advertising copy to Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk. In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalent sized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion. This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available. Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

THE PRIdE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson. Production Director: Ian Bagley. Sales Director: Zoie Wilkinson. Sales Manager: Charlotte Aiken. Executive Editor: Rob Davis. Editor: Tilly Wilkinson. Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray. Distribution: Joe Proctor. Office Managers: Sue Bannister and Melissa Trestrail. Aftersales Managers: Hannah Boyle and Carissa Clay. Sales Executives: Cassy Ayton and Emily Brown.

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NEWS & EVENTS

Rutland ‘still a great place to live!’

“SURVEY RECOGNISES OUR MANY GREAT QUALITIES” SAYS COUNCIL LEADER

RUTLAND Council leader oliver Hemsley has welcomed a national survey which ranks Rutland as the uk’s third best place to live. The annual Halifax Quality of Life Survey uses a number of different measures to produce a list of the best places to live. This includes work, housing, education, health and how people feel. Rutland topped the quality of life survey for the first time in 2015 and was listed third in this year’s rankings, behind Richmondshire and orkney, which were number one and two respectively. “Rutland is a fantastic place to live and will always be number one for those of us who are lucky enough to call it home,” says oliver. “The quality of life survey recognises our county’s many great qualities. We have wonderful traditions and heritage, close-knit communities, good schools and two unique

market towns in oakham and uppingham. People who live in Rutland are some of the happiest and healthiest anywhere in the country and are rightly proud of their rural roots.

lovelorn wallaby hopping for a mate in Wymondham STREWTH! ANTIPODEAN ANIMAL HOPPING - SORRY, HOPING - FOR LOVE IN RUTLAND BREAKS OUT...

We’re also home to leading businesses, great food and drink, and attractions like Rutland Water which drew in almost 2,00,000 visitors last year.”

“We have a lot to be grateful for in Rutland and I fully expect to see us high up in next year’s survey, if not at the very top,” says Cllr Hemsley. n

RUTLAND local police officers were called to Wymondham to literally ‘tie a kangaroo down, sport’ as the Antipodean adventurer hopped out of his paddock looking for love. Police officers were a little baffled after receiving calls about a missing marsupial hopping around the village of Wymondham in search of a mate in the village, between oakham & Melton. The animal is legally owned and licensed by vernon Moore, a keeper of exotic pets, and it’s thought that the lovelorn ‘roo, Thumper, was simply looking

for love. Fortunately an unfazed village police officer, PC Joe lloyd, leapt into action to ensure the safety of the wayward wallaby and returned him to the safety of his paddock. “I’ve been to some strange jobs in my time...” Joe tweeted alongside a picture. native to Australia, rather than the arid sunny plains of Wymondham, rock wallabys are similar in appearance to a kangaroo but much smaller. Whilst the former can reach two metres in height, wallabies are around half the size. Strewth! n

£500,000 FUNDING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

The official launch of a new charity aimed at supporting young people’s mental health in Rutland took place last month as Resilient Rutland announced the official launch of its three year project. Resilient Rutland was started as a project in 2014 as a direct response to feedback from young people in our county - their overwhelming concern was that of mental health and well-being. The Resilient Rutland Steering OAKHAM

group will answer questions posed by the young people on how the project will identify and meet their needs. Resilient Rutland’s new programme will help to improve young people’s mental health and wellbeing, by providing support in schools and breaking down stigmas. The project has received £484,700 of national lottery funding from the Big lottery Fund, which officially started on 29th Jan 2019 and will run for three years. n

Teaching Career Takes off STUDENT BECOMES TEACHER AT ROYAL AIR FORCE WITTERING AS A FORMER ROYAL NAVY PILOT JOINS 16 SQUADRON TO INSTRUCT A NEW GENERATION

new Stamford map project for local illustrator katie Cardew...

STAMFORD local artist katie Cardew is currently working on a new version of her Stamford town map. The illustrator recently asked for suggestions as to which landmarks and buildings to include. Having been inundated with suggestions, the artist says she’s now able to update her original Stamford map in the same style as last year’s Rutland map. The new piece of artwork is due for release in summer. n

100 Extra Officers

Resilient Rutland

EVENIN’ ALL...! you’ll be hearing that more in Rutland and leicestershire this year as funding has been welcomed by the area’s Chief Constable for over 100 extra police officers on the beat. 80 of the officers will take up post this year; 27 more in 2020 alongside digital and crime bureau specialists. n

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STAMFORD From student to teacher! RAF Wittering’s Flight lieutenant Andy latchem flew lynx helicopters with the Royal navy before transferring to the Royal Air Force. Having arriving at RAF Wittering in July 2018 to begin the six-month course to become a flying instructor, he’s now taking to the skies to teach a new generation of pilots to fly. “I love it! There’s so much variety and a tremendous sense of achievement when a student reaches a milestone in their training! In the longer term, Andy plans to fly the Poseidon aircraft when they are delivered to the Royal Air Force in 2020. n

LOCAL

NEWS In Brief OAKHAM

THE PIECES ARE FALLING INTO PLACE FOR THE COUNTY’S FIRST JIGSAW FESTIVAL... Suddenly all of the pieces are falling into place... for Rutland’s first ever jigsaw festival. So far, 52 puzzles have been assembled, with a further 150 waiting to be worked on by a team of volunteers who will display and sell them over the Easter weekend at the event, from 19th-22nd April. The team behind the event have found a sponsor in the form of Gibsons Games, which is 100 yeas old and makes over 250 jigsaws. The festival will take place in oakham Town Council Chamber from 10am - 4pm, and proceeds from the sale of puzzles will go to oakham In Bloom. Attendees of the festival are also invited to buy or donate a jigsaw puzzle, directly. n Call 01572 755718 for details.

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NEWS

Engraved trowel for nGS Heroes

10 YEARS OF GARDEN EVENTS CELEBRATED AS FUNDRAISING INCREASES BY 28% WING Congratulations to david and Jeffy Wood this month, who received an engraved trowel from the national Gardens Scheme for opening their garden in Wing for 10 years. The celebration come just after news that a tremendously successful 2018 for the nGS in our area resulted in fundraising that was 28% higher than previous years hard work. “We raised a record £22,763.18 for nursing and health charities plus an additional £4051 to our local churches and community projects in 2018.” “This is an amazing 28% increase on 2017’s figures. not only are there great gardens to see in the area but also great cakes to enjoy... your visits help change lives!” “2019 sees the opening of several gardens new to the national Gardens Scheme

LOCAL NEWS In Brief

FIRST FAST CHARGING POINT IN THE AREA FOR ECO-FRIENDLY MOTORISTS

Following the news that sales of electric vehicles have increased 26% last year, Rutland has gained its first fast-charging point for electric vehicles. Based in the village of Whitwell, it has been installed by Alfa Power and can charge an electric or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in under an hour. n

including Exton Hall on Sunday 12th May; The Hollies in Manton on Sunday 2nd June and Berrybushes in Market overton on Sunday 16th June,” says Jane Alexander-orr. This month will also see our current nGS coordinator Rose dejardin stepping down from her role with the charity after many years promoting the enjoyment of beautiful gardens, fundraising and homemade afternoon teas! The nGS charity gives visitors access to 3,500 private gardens across the uk and has raised £55m for nursing and health charities. The nGS’s beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie and Hospice uk. n Enjoy visiting a local garden by using the charity’s Garden Finder on www.ngs.org.uk or by downloading the NGS app on your mobile phone.

Get your Growing Going! YEAR-LONG COMMUNITY PROJECT UNDERWAY AS PART OF ACTIVE RUTLAND WILL BRING GARDENERS TOGETHER

RUTLAND do you enjoy gardening? do you see the value in growing your own food? If so, a new year-long community project which aims to promote a healthy lifestyle will be of interest. Grow Together will connect Rutland residents to inspire local people of all ages and abilities to create a community garden-based project and organise events around it. These might be plant swaps, planting events, harvesting or apple pressing. There will also be county-wide events such as the launch event at oakham Castle and a presence at the Rutland County Show. n See www.activerutland.org.uk.

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DAIRY HOUSE, WOOD NEWTON £550,000

Dairy House Barn is a stunning stone barn conversion with south facing views over open rolling countryside. The property’s contemporary interior features light ﬁlled rooms, beamed vaulted ceilings, open plan living spaces and architectural glazing. Situated on the edge of the conservation area of the village, discreetly tucked off Main Street in an area of special landscape, this character property offers versatile living and ﬂexible bedroom accommodation, as well as an enclosed garden, vegetable garden, paddock and an oak framed double car port and workshop.

Tel: +44(0)1780 750200 Email: stamford@ﬁneandcounty.com

Tel: +44( 0)1572 335145 Email: rutland@ﬁneandcounty.com

ﬁneandcountry.com

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225 oﬃces across Great Britain Plus 75 oﬃces globally

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Barnsdale House, Great Easton

An immaculate and superbly restored Grade II Listed House within one of Leicestershire's most popular villages.

Guide Price Â£2,000,000

HALL | GAMES ROOM | DRAWING ROOM | SITTING

ROOM | BREAKFAST KITCHEN | DINING ROOM | SNUG

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

BEDROOMS WITH EN SUITES | DOUBLE CARPORT WITH GARAGE TO EITHER SIDE | GARDENS AND GROUNDS IN ALL ABOUT 1.8 ACRES

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NOAIN CH

ASHWELL

W E N

£795,000

A beautiful Grade II listed detached Country House oﬀering extensive family accommodation with a wealth of character throughout and set within very private, glorious gardens and grounds of approx. 1.0 acre in the centre of this desirable village. 3 Rec. Rooms, Farmhouse Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms; Dbl Garage, parking. EPC Exempt.

STONESBY

£550,000

Substantial Barn Conversion oﬀering spacious and tastefully presented accommodation with a wealth of character features set in a picturesque village location. 2 Reception Rooms, Garden Room, Study, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, 4 Double Bedrooms, Master Dressing Room, 3 Bath-/Shower Rooms, Dbl Garage, Parking, Enclosed Gardens. Energy Rating: TBC.

W NE ICE PR

WHISSENDINE

£565,000

A charming substantial detached character property with a detached Annexe, lovely gardens and outbuildings set in the heart of a sought-after village. The property oﬀers spacious, well-proportioned family accommodation which requires a degree of modernisation and refurbishment. 3 Reception Rooms, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bath-/Shower Rooms; dbl Garage, ample parking. Energy Rating: E.

GRETTON

£490,000

Stunning semi-detached cottage retaining a wealth of period features, including stone mullioned windows, revealed stonework, exposed timbers and Inglenook ﬁreplaces, and enjoying far-reaching views over the Welland Valley. Sitting Room, Dining Kitchen, Clkrm, 4 dbl Bedrooms, En-suite, Bathroom; Garage, parking, lovely landscaped gardens. Energy Rating: E.

W E N

TALLINGTON

Oﬀers Over £375,000

Delightful Grade II listed 17th C thatched cottage set on a private plot of approx. 1/3 A with mature gardens, ample parking and barn/store. Retaining an array of character features throughout, the cottage has been recently rethatched and rewired, features new central heating, reﬁtted kitchen and bathroom and oﬀers scope for further renovation and development, STPP. EPC Exempt.

OAKHAM

£350,000

An attractive double fronted mid-1800’s property situated close to town centre and overlooking the town's Cricket Field. The elegant, beautifully presented accommodation includes 2 Reception Rooms, Study, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Cloakroom/WC, 3 Dbl Bedrooms, En-suite Shower Room and Family Bathroom. Dbl Garage, front and rear gardens. Energy Rating: TBC.

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D L SO

An exceptional, well equipped, Jacobean country house set in 19 acres • Reception Hall, Cloakroom • 6 Reception Rooms • Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Pantry • Laundry and Utility Rooms, Cellars • Principal Bedroom Suite, 8 Beds, 3 Baths • Attic Rooms, Oﬃce/Gym Suite, Dbl Garage

• 3 Bed Coach House, 2 Bedr Cottage • Swimming Pool, Tennis Court, Helipad • Walled Garden, Greenhouses, Stables, Stores • Orchard, Topiary Garden, Ponds, Parterre • Lawns, Paddocks, Riparian Ownership, River Frontage

STIBBINGTON – GUIDE PRICE £2,950,000

D L SO

An exceptional, neoclassical house constructed in 2006 to exacting standards, oﬀering versatile living space, and set within beautifully landscaped gardens. • Sitting Room • Master Suite • Dining Room • Five Further Bedrooms • Study • Family Bathroom • Kitchen/ Breakfast Room • Double Garage • Conservatory • Landscaped Gardens

FOTHERINGHAY – GUIDE PRICE £1,400,000

A Georgian former Rectory set in private landscaped gardens with apartment, stables and pastureland. • 4 Reception Rooms • Stabling, Outbuildings • Kitchen, Oﬃce/Playroom • 1 Bedroom Apartment • Utility Room, Boot Room, Cellar • Tennis Court, Paddock • Principal Bedroom with En-suite • Driveway and Garaging • 7 Bedrooms (2 En-suite), Bathroom • In all about 4.2 acres.

MEDBOURNE – OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £2,000,000

D L SO

A substantial Georgian Grade II listed country residence situated within 7 acres of landscaped gardens, equestrian facilities and paddock. • Reception Hall, Kitchen • Ironing Room, Laundry Room • Dining Room, Drawing Room • Games Room, Wine Store • Snug, Rear Hall, Cloakroom • Boiler Room, Stables • 8 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms • Tack Room, Gardens • Play Room, Store/Pantry • Paddock, In all Approx 7 Acres

CAREBY – GUIDE PRICE £895,000

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PROPERTY FINDERS

THE GREAT BRITISH STAND-OFF Kate Vincent, local property ﬁnder at Garrington discusses some of the factors that are currently aﬀecting property prices around Rutland and Stamford. I recently had the pleasure of sharing a day with my fellow Garrington search consultants from across the UK and as is usual for these events, we shared our views of the property market in our respective regions. This is always a fascinating insight into our nation’s property market diversity with typically, one reporting property market mayhem as others report more subdued activity. Indeed, despite what the media headlines like to suggest, England’s property market is made up of a series of ‘microclimates’ that only local property expertise can unravel.

Where properties are being launched at a realistic price, the healthy demand from buyers in the area is leading to some deals being agreed. Indeed, recently a prime property was launched on the internet and within 24 hours had a close to asking offer from a cash buyer.

What’s happening in Rutland and Stamford?

Not everyone is holding back

Where is the property stand-off happening in the Rutland and Stamford property market?

Amongst my colleagues, however, a common theme ran through all of our reports – yes there are still differences on how the prime, investment and second home sectors are performing but, in all regions, there are signs of a buyer/seller stand-off.

At the top end of the market (£1m-£3m), there are a number of properties which have been on the market for some time but remain unsold. From keeping close tabs on these prime properties, I understand that they have received quite a lot of interest and viewings but have yet to shift. The reason for this is often the buyer/seller stand-off and the opposing perceptions on what constitutes a fair price in todays market.

My report to colleagues was that despite the Brexit uncertainty there is still healthy demand from buyers to look for property, but the shortage for-sale stock is frustrating many. Most agents are reporting that they have continued to be invited by homeowners to value their properties but afterwards there is a frequent reluctance to ‘sign on the dotted line’ and list their homes.

I recently met someone who had relocated back to the UK with their family and is living in a rental property whilst looking to buy a substantial country property. Typical of meetings I have with potential buyers, we discussed their property requirements, their family’s lifestyle, local property market - and inevitably, the question of how Brexit may impact the future property market.

Of those who do decide to put their property on the market, a rising number of homes are being advertised at over inflated prices and as a result of this, we are seeing subsequent price reductions advertised on websites.

With my property knowledge and their global business/economic acumen, we had a lively and thought-provoking debate closing with them concluding that despite the economic uncertainty, there is no reason

Kate Vincent Garrington

why they shouldn’t proceed with purchasing their next home. The rationale was that although things are likely to be rocky in the next few years, this purchase is a long-term investment and about establishing a home for a family so it’s not all about pounds and pennies or second guessing the market.

Never more important to obtain expert advice Given the uncomfortable political news and gloomy ‘if the worst happens’ statement by the Governor of the Bank of England that UK house price could (but are highly unlikely) to drop by up to 30%, It is understandable that sellers and buyers alike are nervous about making a ‘wrong move’. None of us have a crystal ball but life must go on with many people still having, needing or wanting to move home – so getting expert advice on pricing, negotiations and property assessment has never been more important. As an independent property buyer and consultant, I provide clients with unbiased and fact based advice which lacks the emotions which often bubble to the surface whilst buying and selling homes. Please get in touch and I would delighted to help you move home with clarity and confidence. If you would value some objective property advice to help you buy more effectively locally, Garrington offer a commitment free meeting. To arrange, please call:

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

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STAMFORD MY TOWN >

MIRANDA ROCK BY

HOUSE DIRECTOR OF BURGHLEY HOUSE

How long have you been in Stamford and how did you arrive here?

Stamford has always been part of my life. Burghley was my grandfather’s house before he set up the charitable trust that now owns and oversees it. I lived here as a child whilst my mother was custodian before coming back with my family in 2007 to work as the House Director, looking after the house and collections for the Burghley House Preservation Trust. Tell us about your career?

Growing up in this extraordinary building and surrounded by beautiful works of art had a profound effect on me. I studied History of Art at University and after a post-grad decorative arts course and two years working whilst studying Spanish in Madrid, I was lucky enough to get a job at the Royal Collection Trust. This was probably the position that gave me the best insight into the role I have now; overseeing the challenges of managing the conservation, inventory and display of works of art. After a spell in New York working for an art dealer, I returned to London and did an MA in Arts Policy and Administration before returning to Burghley with my family to take up the position of House Director. What makes Stamford unique and what do you miss when you’ve been away?

Stamford is such an exceptional town, something about the way the town sprawls elegantly around the river, the colour of the stone, the layers of history and the proud Georgian architecture makes it hard to beat. History here is so tangible and visually there is so much to enjoy. There is never a dull moment when you are walking or stuck at traffic lights in Stamford, the roof-lines, the spires, the little quirks in the masonry and the clues of what has gone before, we all get to enjoy that.

Above: Miranda Rock took up a position with Burghley House in 2007 to become the Elizabethan stately home’s House Director, working under the Burghley House Preservation Trust.

Who inspires you around Stamford?

There are some exceptional voluntary groups in Stamford supporting and improving the lives of those of us who live here and I am constantly reminded of the incredible work they do – I find this truly inspirational. The Evergreen Care Trust, the Stamford Foodbank, the work done through the Hub of St George’s, The Friends of Stamford Hospital, Alternatively, the Kiwanis; our wonderful Scout and Guides groups; the list could go on! >> 27

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Miranda Rock: Miranda lived in the house as a child and her mother, Lady Victoria Leatham, created Burghley Houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gardens of Surprise back in 2007 as a final project before handing over to Miranda, husband Orlando (pictured) and their family.

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M Y

TOW N

S TA M F O R D

>> I admire everyone who works to keep Stamford looking so beautiful, the local litter picking groups, the Civic Society, we all have a responsibility to care for and preserve the place where we live. It’s almost time for our annual Burghley staff litter pick and over 100 of us will be heading out, clearing the verges and roads into Stamford. It’s immensely rewarding and we all take pride in the mountain of rubbish bags that we fill in a day. What’s Stamford like in spring and where should we visit?

Spring is time to get outdoors and we are lucky to have so much accessible green space. of course I will recommend that everyone comes to Burghley! The park is really an exceptional place at all times of the year, but the gardens in the spring, with thousands of spring bulbs are a sight to behold. The Meadows and the bird life along the river is all at its best, and the Stamford Rec, where I was honoured to be asked to open the play area a few years ago, is looking wonderful. Where would you take friends and family to dine or have a drink?

There are so many places to eat and drink in Stamford and the range of restaurants is there to suit all tastes. But the place with the best view has to be the Rose Garden in our orangery Restaurant looking out over the gardens and lake. When the weather is balmy there is nowhere more beautiful. The George has the best atmosphere and the William Cecil has a wonderful terrace. We have always enjoyed Café Black, a great spot for a bacon sandwich while reading the papers or watching the world go by. Which shops and businesses would you recommend to visitors?

The shopping in Stamford is remarkable because we have such a range. We have many unusual independent shops as well as some more high-end brands, but the independents are the most interesting. I have an absolute weakness for Arch label Agency, the family-run Anand Shoes is great and the Antiques Centre is a treasure trove. The great pleasure of shopping in Stamford is the exploration of the streets and lanes and the discovery of a hidden gem. My father always said that ‘you can buy anything you need in Stamford.’ It’s changed over the last 20 years, but mostly that’s still true. Burghley House has 35 major

Burghley House

What are the best views by day and the best by night?

rooms on the ground and first floors. There are over 80 lesser rooms and numerous halls, corridors, bathrooms and service areas.

The view down High Street St Martins as you come into Stamford is still the most iconic view of Stamford, but it’s also nice to stand on the Meadows and look back at the town. like many historic towns, the ground floors of many buildings in the town centre have been adapted over time so you should always be looking up to remind yourself how the buildings are layered in history. The views in the park at Burghley mustn’t be missed. The effect of the house in the landscape was carefully choreographed by Capability Brown, he sculpted the land so that the House is seen best as you move through the parkland and is revealed by degrees. If you walk from Bottle lodges or Station Gate towards the House you get this wonderful view throughout the seasons. >> Right from Top: Burghley House was the setting for the fictional stately home of Rosings in the 2005 adaptation, whilst the town of Stamford itself was used as the town of Meryton. Miranda and Anthony Bradbury of Jaguar Land Rover presents 2018 Burghley Horse Trials winner Tim Price with his cup.

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Below: The Burghley estate’s orangery Restaurant, Arch Dress Agency, Stamford’s Meadows and St Martins.

What about nature or a quiet place to escape to in the area?

like many other people who live in the area, I enjoy the park and every day is a little bit different. If you want to go for a run, walk the dogs, ride a bike, take the children out, take photographs or just sit and soak it up, I really don’t think there is anywhere better. nature brings a tranquillity and peace and a feeling of escape that our busy lives need. Would you change anything about Stamford?

Stamford will continue to evolve. It must to survive. The way we live our lives - where and how we get to school, work and shop and the pressures on our infrastructure - continues to be a concern. The number of cars moving through town, over the bridge and needing to park is a challenge. It will be most important that in the future we are mindful of preserving what is so special about this place, valuing our history, our heritage and our tremendous community above all. And finally, what’s happening at Burghley House in 2019?

M I R A N D A’ S P E R S O N A L T O U R Best Place for Food Miranda and the family love a bacon sandwich at Café Black by morning, and enjoy lunch at the estate’s Orangery Restaurant with its views over the Rose Garden. For evening dining, Miranda says that The William Cecil and The George of Stamford are to be recommended. Favourite Shop Miranda declares a love for Arch Label Agency and Anand Shoes, which offers traditional, handmade English shoes from a family business dating back to the 1950s. Best Place for a Glass of Wine The terrace at The William Cecil is a favourite when the sun’s out and you’ve the weekend newspapers to look through. Favourite View “I love the iconic view of the town as you come into it from High Street St Martins, and we all love the Meadows. But as with all historic towns, the ground floors of many buildings have been adapted over time so you should always look up to see how the buildings are layered in history.

Favourite place to see at night Twilight over the Burghley House parkland is really lovely. The best times of the year to enjoy sunset over the house are at the music concerts the house hosts each year this year will see Billy Ocean and Heather Small perform (see panel opposite) - and at the Battle Proms in July.

Favourite way to spend a weekend? “One of my favourite weekends of the year is the Horse Trials. There’s a really hard-working team who each year managed to transform the parkland into the equivalent of a small town. Liz Inman and her team host a world-class sporting event and manage to cope with the influx of 150 000 visitors. It’s a really fun, enjoyable event every single year.” n

Plans are underway for 2020 to mark the anniversary of the birth of William Cecil – Elizabeth I’s most trusted minister who designed the house as a grand tribute to his Queen – which will include a high-profile lecture series, new exhibition and education programme. A record-breaking season last year attracted more than 120 000 visitors to the House and Gardens. Burghley has a host of events lined up for 2019.

The House and Gardens re-open on Saturday 16th March with this year’s exhibition ‘Treasures from the East’ focusing on beautiful treasures from the Far East from the Burghley House collections. Spring also sees the annual opening of the South Gardens, with magnificent seasonal displays of narcissi and spring bulbs while the Burghley Easter Egg Treasure Hunt returns on 21st April. This year no-one should miss the opportunity to enjoy the dramatic improvements in the Sculpture Garden including new planting schemes, many new beds, thousands of new plants and areas previously lost that have been restored over the winter. If you’re feeling energetic don’t miss the Rat Race, quite simply the world’s biggest assault course followed by epic after-party of festival proportions. other 2019 highlights will be a summer concert by Billy ocean on 8th June when the parkland will echo to the sound of ‘Caribbean Queen’ alongside special guest Heather Small. And for more summer celebrations, the Battle Proms Concert in July will bring music, Spitfire displays, cannons, cavalry and fireworks to the park. In July we have the now well established Burghley Film Festival with five days and nights of fabulous films. later in the summer we all prepare for the excitement that the land Rover Burghley Horse Trials brings. It’s a really hectic time, but it’s an event that is world-class and has put Stamford on the map since it came here in 1961. n

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Three to See: Don’t miss these events at Burghley House in 2019...

n Easter Egg Treasure Hunt, 21st April: Follow the treasure hunt around the Gardens of Surprise and solve the riddle to claim your full size chocolate egg from the Easter Bunny. All entries will go in to the prize draw for Burghley House’s giant chocolate Easter Bunny! www.burghley.co.uk

n Billy Ocean, 8th June: Britain’s biggest Caribbean recording stars comes to the parkland of Burghley House in the summer courtesy of Live Promotions. ‘Red Light Spells Danger,’ but rearrange the letters of Billy Ocean and you’ll spell out a great night of live music. www.burghley.co.uk

n Burghley Film Festival, 24th-28th July: Family cinema and fresh air... a perfect combination and a great place to enjoy the estate’s annual film festival. Films to be confirmed but as always take along a picnic or - new for this year - enjoy freshly flipped American burgers! www.burghley.co.uk

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Truly Independent Financial Planning • Efficient Portfolio’s Charlie Reading • Author of The Dream Retirement

Ready to Secure Your Retirement and Financial Future for Good? If retirement is looming on your horizon, how prepared do you really feel? Will you have enough money for the future? Will you be able to tick oﬀ that bucket list? Or will you end up with too much wealth that leaves a heavy tax -burden on your loved ones?

EOPLE ALWAYS ASK ME what they should be doing now for a better tomorrow, but the answers are never black and white. Planning your finances can be quite a complex beast, with many factors to consider. However, there is one truth that applies to everyone: ‘an investment in knowledge pays the best interest’.

Create a Legacy for Your Future Generations We all want to be remembered by our families and loved ones, whether that is through the ﬁnancial inheritance we leave or by making your mark on the world. I help people leave a long-lasting legacy, rather than a liability, by helping to create the personal side of retirement.

My passion in life is helping people fulﬁl their goals. I love giving people the peace of mind of knowing they have something special to look forward to, and I’ve found that the most empowering way to do this is through education.

You can learn these techniques and more at my free seminar called ‘Setting Up Your Dream Retirement’, which is taking place on ursday 14th March 2019 at 18.30, where I will show you:

So, what do I teach my clients?

• How to make your money grow above inﬂation

How to Save SMART Not Hard Understanding how to maximise your money will help you to save SMART. You need to build a back-up plan, in case things go wrong, and utilise the most suitable systems to boost your wealth. By saving in the right way now, you will have the freedom to ﬁll your future with what you love.

• How to reduce the risk of your investments

A Clear Vision of Your Financial Future Non-one wants to worry about running out of money in retirement; however, you equally don’t want to end up as the richest person un the graveyard. A successful retirement is founded on the ability to look into the future, see what you need, and then plan how you can get there, including what you can afford today. is aspect in particular is the key to having peace of mind in your financial life. Without it, you will feel uncertain and worried about what the future holds. If you are failing to plan, you are planning to fail! How to Get Your Money Growing Saving money is important, but if you don’t get that money working harder for you, you’ll have to save twice as much, or work twice as long. To combat this, you’ve got to get your money growing; but not just any growth, growth over and above inflation.

“

• How to map out your ﬁnancial future so you don’t have to downgrade your lifestyle

Saving money is important, but if you don’t get that money working harder for you, you’ll have to save twice as much, or work twice as long.

• How you can enjoy an exciting and adventurous retirement without having to worry about running out of money

”

n To book your place, please call 01572 898060 or email charlotte@eﬃcientportfolio.co.uk. I look forward to seeing you there.

How to Build a Flexible Income, Which Could Maximise Your Money and Minimise Tax How would you like to maximise your hard-fought savings and turn them into a ﬂexible, dynamic income that can deliver what you want, when you want it, so you can have an amazing retirement? I can show you can you can have choice of how much income you take, and how you can draw what you need without paying more tax than you need to, and still do all those amazing things you’ve dreamed of.

Charlie Reading created Efficient Portfolio to offer entirely independent financial advice and helping people clarify and realise their dreams and goals through financial planning.

Call 01572 898060, see www.efficientportfolio.co.uk or visit Portfolian House, 30 Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AY

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T H E

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B R A N D

FABERGé

As part of a new series in Pride Magazine, we’re looking at the fascinating stories behind luxury designer brands, and what better brand to start with than one that creates diamond-encrusted Easter eggs fit for a Tsar... Words & Images: Tilly Wilkinson.

Fabergé is a brand often associated with luxury and its story is one

that even someone not interested in antiques would find fascinating. We’re starting this series of features - ‘The luxury Brand’ - with Fabergé in celebration of Easter and, well, eggs.

The first Fabergé egg was crafted for Tsar Alexander III, who had decided to give his wife, the Empress Maria Feodorovna, an Easter egg in 1885, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their betrothal.

Although there is no official record of the Tsar’s inspiration for it, many believe that he was moved by an egg owned by the Empress’s aunt, Princess vilhelmine Marie of denmark, which had captivated Maria’s imagination in her childhood and of which the Tsar was well aware. known as the Hen Egg, the very first Fabergé egg is crafted from a foundation of gold. Its opaque white enameled ‘shell’ opens to reveal a matte yellow-gold yolk. This in turn, opens to reveal a multicoloured gold hen that also opens. The hen contained a minute diamond replica of the imperial crown from which a small ruby pendant was suspended, but these last two elements have unfortunately been lost and remain so to this day. Maria was so delighted by the gift, Alexander appointed Fabergé a ‘goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown’ and commissioned another egg for the following year.

After that, Peter Carl Fabergé was apparently given complete freedom for the design of future imperial Easter eggs, and their designs became more elaborate. According to the Fabergé family, not even the Tsar knew what form they would take.

The only requirements were that each contain a surprise, and that each be unique. once Fabergé had approved an initial design, the work was carried out by a team of craftsmen.

After Alexander III’s death on 1st november 1894, his son, nicholas II, presented a Fabergé egg to both his wife, Alexandra Fedorovna, and his mother, the dowager Empress Maria Fedorovna. Records have shown that of the 50 imperial Easter eggs ever made, 20 were given to the former and 30 to the latter. Eggs were made each year except 1904 and 1905, during the Russo-Japanese War.

The imperial eggs enjoyed great fame, and Fabergé was commissioned to make similar eggs for a few private clients, including the duchess of Marlborough, the Rothschild family and the yusupovs. Fabergé was also commissioned to make 12 eggs for Alexander kelch, though only seven appear to have been completed.

Following the revolution and the nationalisation of the Fabergé workshop in St. Petersburg by the Bolsheviks in 1918, the Fabergé family left Russia. The Fabergé trademark has since been sold several times and several companies have retailed egg-related merchandise using the Fabergé name. The victor Mayer jewellery company produced limited edition heirloom quality Fabergé eggs authorised under unilever’s license from 1998 to 2009. The trademark is now owned by Fabergé limited, which makes egg-themed jewellery.

In 2015 the owners of this trademark announced the creation of a new Fabergé egg, one styled by them as belonging to the ‘Imperial Class’ of eggs and

A Costly Easter Egg Hunt: e ree Missing Imperial Eggs...

1889: NÉCESSAIRE EGG “A fine gold egg, richly set with diamonds, cabochon rubies, emeralds, a large coloured diamond at top and a cabochon sapphire at point. The interior is designed as an Etui with thirteen diamond set implements.’

1903: ROYAL DANISH EGG “The surface is in light blue and white enamel with ornaments in gold and stones. On the top are the armorial bearings of the Danish Royal Family, and it is supported by Danish heraldic lions. Pictures of the royals inside.”

1909: ALEXANDER III COMMEMORATIVE EGG “Divided into five sections with vertical lines of rose-cut diamond laurel leaves. Diamond clusters are positioned around the middle of the egg. Rose-cut diamond wreaths centered with diamond-set stars of Bethlehem.”

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L U X U RY

An Egg Hunt: Our Five Favourite Easter Eggs...

B R A N D

Kelch Chanticleer Egg: On the first full page, you’ll see the Kelch Chanticleer egg. It’s a jewelled, enameled Easter egg made by Michael Perchin under the supervision of the Russian jeweller Peter Carl Fabergé in 1904. It was made for the Russian industrialist Alexander Ferdinandovich Kelch, who presented the egg to his wife, Barbara Kelch-Bazanova. It’s one of the largest. Surprise: Upon the hour, a diamond set cockerel pops up from the top of the egg, flaps its wings four times, nods his head three times, crowing all the while during this routine. This lasts fifteen seconds. Pearl Egg: The inset on the first page is the Pearl Egg made by the Fabergé brand in 2017. It harnessed 20 highly skilled workmasters, 139 fine, white pearls with a golden lustre, 3,305 diamonds, carved rock crystal and mother-of-pearl set on white and yellow gold. Each pearl was hand-selected by Hussain Ibrahim Al-Fardan from his private collection. Surprise: An ingenious mechanism enables the entire outer shell to rotate on its base, simultaneously opening in six sections to unveil its treasure. Duchess of Marlborough Egg: The image on this page to the far left is of the Duchess of Marlborough Egg made for Consuelo Vanderbilt at the occasion of her visit to Russia in 1902. It is now owned by Prince Albert of Monaco. Made of multi-coloured gold, rose-cut diamonds, pearls and translucent pink and white guilloché enamel, the clock has a revolving dial, with a diamond-set serpent indicating time. Surprise: No surprise on this one, simply the clock. Coronation Egg: This, perhaps Faberge’s most iconic egg, was presented on 26th May 1897, the day of Nicholas II’s Coronation in the Uspensky Cathedral. Its outer shell is made of multi-coloured gold, embellished with translucent yellow guilloché enamel and black enamel double-headed eagles set with diamonds, a design recalling the heavy Cloth of Gold robe she wore at the ceremony. Surprise: The egg opens to reveal a surprise in the form of a diamond-set enamelled gold miniature replica of the original 18th century carriage by Buckendahl which once contained an emerald drop, later replaced by a yellow briolette diamond (both lost). Lilies of the Valley Egg: Far right, this pink guilloché enamel egg is virtually smothered with pearl and diamond-set lilies of the valley sprays, Empress Alexandra’s favourite flower, and is designed in her most-liked style Surprise: Three miniatures of their eldest daughters surmounted by a diamond and ruby-set Imperial Crown appears when one of the pearls is twisted.

therefore the first Imperial Class egg in 100 years - the Fabergé Pearl egg - was sold in Qatar following a five-day exhibition.

The Pearl Egg is accompanied by a sumptuous Fabergé necklace of white pearls, diamonds and mother of pearl featuring a scallop motif, and finished with an exquisite 19.44 carat white pearl drop.

of the 65 known Fabergé eggs, 57 have survived to the present day. Ten of the imperial Easter eggs are displayed at Moscow’s kremlin Armory Museum. of the 50 known imperial eggs, 43 have survived, and there are photos of three of the seven lost eggs: the 1903 Royal danish Egg, the 1909 Alexander III Commemorative Egg, and the nécessaire Egg of 1889. The previously lost Third Imperial Easter Egg of 1887 has since been found in the uS and bought by Wartski for a private collector.

After the Russian Revolution, the Bolsheviks nationalised the House of Fabergé, and the Fabergé family fled to Switzerland. The imperial family’s palaces were ransacked and their treasures moved to the kremlin Armoury on order of vladimir lenin. In a bid to acquire more foreign currency, Joseph Stalin had many of the eggs sold in 1927, after their value had been appraised by Agathon Fabergé. 14 imperial eggs left Russia. Many of the eggs were sold to Armand Hammer, president of occidental Petroleum and personal friend to lenin, and to Emanuel Snowman of the london antique dealers Wartski. n

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EYE IN THE SKY

Burley on the Hill The story behind Rutlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive Palladian mansion Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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Ask anyone to identify the area’s most recognisable landmarks and the usual suspects of Rutland Water, normanton Church, oakham Castle and Burghley House are likely to be at the top of the list.

Below/Right: Humphry Repton restyled the parkland of Burley on the Hill at a cost of £2,500 and is regarded as the spiritual successor to the great Lancelot Capability Brown as a landscaper.

But what about Burley on the Hill’s Palladian mansion? It’s visible from across oakham and stands rather proudly on the county’s skyline even though it’s now a private dwelling, rather than a country park and no longer hosts the Rutland Show.

The current house was built on the site of an earlier dwelling around 1690, mimicking the style of Sir Christopher Wren. Its earlier owner, Sir John (later lord) Harrington sold Burley to George villiers for £28,000, first duke of Buckingham, in 1620.

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unfortunately, Buckingham was assassinated in 1628 whereupon the property passed to his son. In 1644 the place was burned to the ground by Roundheads. Burley may have been somewhat unlucky for the Buckinghams, but when Secretary of State to William III, daniel Finch, second Earl of nottingham took on the property in 1689, its new owner managed to overcome the house’s unlucky history.

nottingham served largely as his own architect but enlisted Humphry Repton to restyle the grounds and create a landscape park befitting a country house. Works were estimated to cost about £15,000 but actually came in at double that sum - Repton’s landscaping accounted for over £2,500 of those costs. The house itself carries a Grade II* listing, as do some structures in the grounds such as the east lodge’s stone archway and iron gates created by Josiah lord in 1700, and the two symmetrical sets of stone steps and retaining wall with stone recesses on the south front.

A gothic folly on the estate created in 1807 burned down in 1965, and also at this time the kitchen garden also had a very exotic-sounding melon ground. In 1881, Burley necessitated 21 staff to work in the place. Today, the mansion might be a country club and golf course if fate hasn’t dealt a crushing blow to the property’s next would-be owner, Turkish Cypriot entrepreneur Asil nadir. >>

Opposite: The hamlet of Burley on the Hill is Rutland’s highest point, and at its centre is a Grade I listed 17th century Palladian mansion. It’s set within 65 acres of grounds and woodlands with a deer park.

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“Partnering with Country life Editor Marcus Binney, kit Martin co-wrote The County House: To Be or not To Be. When published in 1982, it became the bible for wellheeled yuppies seeking to purchase big run-down country houses!” >> nadir was a keen businessman within the clothing and fashion industry. He swooped through the 1980s as the talented head of a portfolio company which swelled to take in many different sectors from electronics to packaging. He was the 34th richest man in Great Britain and the company had over 24,000 shareholders but in a terrible case example of the old adage ‘the bigger they are, the harder they fall,’ Polly Peck collapsed in 1990 and when nadir returned to the uk in the early 2000s, he was sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment. Having purchased Burley on the Hill around 1990 with the intention of building a golf course and club house, nadir abandoned his plans and sold Burley on the Hill to kit Martin. Architecture was in kit Martin’s blood. His father Sir leslie Martin was Professor of Architecture at Cambridge, and kit joined the family firm but found himself struggling to be architect and property developer at the same time. He left the family firm in 1976 and paid £38,000 for northamptonshire’s Grade I listed dingley Hall.

Partnering with Country life Editor Marcus Binney, kit Martin co-wrote The County House: To Be or not To Be, which, when published in 1982, became an instructive bible for well-heeled yuppies seeking to purchase big run down country houses. kit found a niche in serious restoration projects and purchased Burley on the Hill from nadir for £3m - a snip, as nadir had paid over £7m.

kit partnered on the project with Joss Hanbury, the original owner of the house, joint master of the Quorn, who also contributed 700 acres of farmland to the estate.

Builders moved in and began to transform the mansion - with its 250 rooms - into six individual homes, with a total of 20 dwellings on the estate. They would sell around 1992 for between £140,000 and £600,000 (for a property within the main house) and even before obtaining planning permission, kit had already re-employed the estate’s gardener and introduced 30 deer into the park. 40

Today the parish of Burley on the Hill is spread over about 3,000 acres, with the four storey mansion’s residents enjoying rights over about 67 acres of parkland, as well as communal rooms which can be borrowed for occasional use, including the Tapestry Room, Garden Salon and Ball Room so that owners can throw family parties in a seriously swish setting. Today, Burley one of the most recognisable sights on the horizon of Rutland, and certainly one of the most desirable places to live. For anyone whose sights are set on waking up each morning in a mansion, it’s one of the county’s most impressive buildings! n

Above: Burley on the Hill circa 1800 and 1964.

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WHAT’S ON

What’s On... LEICESTER

OAKHAM

MONDAY 22nd APRIL TUESDAY 23rd APRIL

SUNDAY 7th APRIL

KINGS & QUEENS: ENGLISH TOURING OPERA PRESENT VERDI’S MACBETH AND ROSSINI’S ELIZABETH I

RUTLAND FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Celebrate The County of Good Taste at the Rutland Food & Drink Festival in Oakham. Taking place in Oakham Castle, on the Castle grounds, in the Market Place and along Mill Street, there will be hot and cold food stalls celebrating local producers and a great atmosphere throughout the town. Organised by Oakham Town Partnership, local suppliers bring the very best food and drink to the town to show off the very best produce with that most special of ingredient - quality. The event will include Rutland Charcuterie (pictured) Hambleton Bakery and many many others.

English Touring Opera present a season of kings and queens in the battle for love, loyalty and power with each opera featuring a large chorus and live orchestra. Follow Verdi’s Macbeth in a blood-soaked journey to the throne and watch a guilt-ridden Lady Macbeth descend into the depths of despair in this new production. English with surtitles. Meanwhile, this is the first fully staged professional production Elizabeth I to tour the UK. Rossini’s opera contrasts the private and public spheres of her life and culminates in a virtuosic showdown between The Virgin Queen, her councillor, her lover and his wife. Sung in Italian; English surtitles.

n 11am - 3pm, in and around Oakham Town Centre. See www.discover-rutland.co.uk.

The Amazing Bubbleman

A MIX OF ART, MAGIC, SCIENCE AND THE FUN OF BUBBLES IN A UNIQUE AND QUIRKY SHOW FOR THOSE OF ANY AGE

STAMFORD

FRIDAY 12th APRIL

THE AMAZING BUBBLEMAN

Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences worldwide for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. An Edinburgh Fringe favourite, he has sold out there for the last twelve years. Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation. From square bubbles to rocket bubbles, tornado bubbles to flying saucer bubbles, The Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps from all ages. Tickets £11, from 1.30pm. n Stamford Corn Exchange, Broad Street, PE9 1PX. Call 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

n Curve Theatre, Rutland Street Leicester, LE1 1SB. Tickets £32.50 7.30pm for pre-show talk. Call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

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

DINGLEY

KILWORTH

Saturday 20th aPril

Sunday 28th aPril

the woodland Pytchley meet

The greatest musical era of the 20th century comes alive with a nostalgic and fun-packed musical journey through the sights and sounds of the swinging 60s. Sing along with a cast of leading performers to the music of The Beatles, Hermans Hermits, Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Rolling Stones, Cilla Black, Manfred Mann, Dusty Springfield, Lulu, Sandy Shaw and many more. This musical powerhouse of a show starts with the explosion of Brit Pop in 1962 through to the era of Flower Power and Free Love of the late sixties. Featuring incredible performances and bespoke costumes, Twist & Shout will transport you back to the sights and sounds of the 60s.

A great day out for all the family. Watch high quality racing over steeplechase fences. Easter Saturday Meeting. Great views of the course plus a wide variety of trade stands, bookies or tote to place your bet and fully licenced bar to celebrate your win! Gates open 11am, racing from 2pm. STAMFORD

tueSday 9th aPril

PhiliPPa maSSey talK - Stamford St martin’S ShoPS & buSineSSeS It’s home to businesses like The George Hotel and it’s a gateway to Burghley. And yet, St Martins remains both part of the town and yet divided from it, how did people in St Martin’s shop and carry on

their businesses? Local historian and hugely knowledgeable local Philippa takes a look at commercial dealings south of the river in Stamford Baron. With at one point two railway stations, many pubs and shops and various large businesses, it has always been a thriving area, even if its commercial character has changed.

n Stamford Arts Centre, from 7.30pm, tickets £5. St Mary’s Street PE9 2DL, call 01780 763203. stamfordtouristinformation.com.

The Stilton Cheese Classic Vehicle Run

OVER 350 CLASSIC VEHICLES TAKE TO THE ROAD

n Dingley, Market Harborough LE16 8PJ, 01858 545709, www.dingleyraces.com STAMFORD

Saturday 6th aPril, Sunday 7th aPril

burghley houSe ngS Scheme

The South Garden’s magnificent displays of narcissi and spring bulbs will be available to visit in aid of the National Gardens Scheme. n Burghley House, from 11am.

UPPINGHAM

Sunday 28th aPril

the Stilton cheeSe claSSic Vehicle run

With the sad death of organisers and fundraisers Jim Barry and Joy Barry in 2018, the future of Uppingham’s classic car run was in doubt until quite recently. Thankfully, the event will take place for 2019 and in view of the hard work and dedication that Jim and Joy put into the event in previous years, future runs will be titled the ‘Jim Barry Memorial Run and Stilton Cheese Classic Vehicle Event.’

twiSt & Shout

n Kilworth House, £65/person with welcome drink, and three course dinner. From 6.30pm. Call 01858 881939 or see www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk.

Over 350 vehicles will recreate the original route of 39 miles which made deliveries of cheeses at the various villages and towns along the route including Billesdon, Skeffington, East Norton, Allexton, Wardley, Uppingham, Seaton, Harringworth, Bulwick Southwick, Oundle and Lutton. This was one of the longest commercial carriage rides until cars took over from horse-drawn carriages. The event coincides with the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Club’s ‘Drive it Day.’ n 9.30am, from Uppingham’s Market Place. To participate, see www.stiltoncheeserun.webs.com. 45

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WHAT’S ON

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

An Evening With Alfie Boe...

DEMONTFORT HALL LENDS US A TENOR AS ALFIE BOE POPS IN FOR A PERFORMANCE WITH VIP MEET AND GREET AVAILABLE LEICESTER

thursday 11th april

sJM concerts and live nation present an evening with opera’s alFie boe

one of the world’s greatest classical singers Alfie Boe comes back to the uk, announcing a 2019 tour in what is becoming another landmark year for the much-loved tenor. last month, Alfie revealed his return to the solo spotlight with

the release of his vibrant and instantly classic album As Time Goes By. The record celebrates the golden era of music from the 30s and 40s, a time that is often overlooked - sandwiched as it is between the roaring twenties and rock ‘n’ roll. Alfie is one of the best-loved vocalists of his generation and a hugely successful, multi-platinum selling artist. Alfie has triumphed on theatre stages and in concert halls around the world and has two recent uk number one albums under his

belt for albums Together and Together Again, made with his great friend Michael Ball. The duo also won two Classic BRIT Awards earlier this year for Best Album and Group of the year. “I’m excited to get back on the road, especially with a new record I’m so proud of !” says Alfie.

n Prices £36-£66.50. Doors 7pm. VIP meet and greet £176.50 inc seats in the first two rows exclusive and very limited photo opportunity to meet Alfie Boe in person. DeMontfort Hall, Leicester LE1 7RU. Call 0116 233 3111 or see www.demontforthall.co.uk.

STAMFORD

saturday 6th april sunday 7th april

burghley Fine Food Market

Spring time means days out and if you’re seeking to stretch your legs, early April sees not just one but two great reasons to visit the town’s Burghley House.

As well as a dazzling display of spring bulbs in aid of the national Gardens Scheme (See previous page), the estate also hosts its spring Fine Food Market. The event will feature over 30 local suppliers of produce like handmade cheese, artisan breads, organic vegetables, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats. The event includes both treats to enjoy on the day but also food to take home and prepare in your own kitchen, flying the flag for all local farmers and producers. n 01780 752451 or visit burghley.co.uk

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PRIDE MAGAZINES

THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ

RUTLAND & STAMFORD PRIDE MAGAZINES ARE DELIVERED FREE OF CHARGE, VIA ROYAL MAIL, TO HIGH VALUE HOMES RIGHT ACROSS THE COUNTY... Our unique circulation is to properties in the top three council tax banded homes which are predominantly worth over Â£300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content. In addition the magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents and our in-house distribution team also works hard to hand-deliver the magazine to selected hotels and restaurants, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs. If your business would benefit from being showcased to the wealthiest people in the area, please call our friendly sales team on 01529 469977 or email sales@pridemagazines.co.uk. Alternatively, you can view our media pack online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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Alec Stephens presents his Hayloft hotpot with lamb loin, curd, new season carrot, confit beets and wild garlic jus at The Coach House. Featured dishes are representative examples of our featured chefsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change frequently so dishes remain subject to availability. Check each restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website prior to your visit for an up-to-date menu to avoid disappointment.

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FOOD & DRINK

local chefs

spring into action As blue skies and lighter evenings pay us a visit, the restaurants of Rutland and Stamford have a fresh new palette of ingredients from which to create delicious dishes...

When spring arrives it brings with it warmer temperatures, colour and new growth in the garden and a new wardrobe. It will also bring a host of fresh new ingredients for the county’s chefs to use.

From local asparagus and new potatoes to spring salads and spring lamb, there’s a renewed sense of optimism about the season which also permeates the area’s best dining rooms. This month we’re featuring spring dishes from some of our favourite restaurants across Stamford and Rutland, offering a flavour - visually if not literally - of how the county’s most talented and creative chefs can make the most of the season.

Each month in Pride we feature locally owned independent restaurants that support local farmers and food producers, so a visit to any of our featured restaurants is also a delicious way to support the area’s rural economy. Every time we visit a local restaurant we’re always keen to meet the chefs themselves and to find out what dishes they enjoy cooking, and what qualities they believe help to create a really good dining experience. We’ve pictured the chefs responsible for these thoroughly delicious works of art later in our feature to give them their ‘five minutes of fame!’ >>

Below: Some of the county’s most talented chefs, Hambleton Hall’s Aaron Patterson; Mark Gough of The Finches Hambleton; Karl Dovey, Executive Head Chef of Kilworth House; Nick Evans, Head Chef of The Olive Branch; David Buckowicki, Head Chef of Barnsdale Lodge; Alec Stephens, Head Chef of The Coach House, South Luffenham; Frazer King, Head Chef at Paten & Co, Stamford; Adrian Coulthard, Head Chef of Rushton Hall Hotel; Craig McCready, Head Chef of The William Cecil, Stamford. n

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“Spring dining means mouthwatering dishes, lighter and healthier, with local vegetables, locally reared spring lamb and new potatoes...”

This Page: Paten & Co of Stamford’s Frazer King presents Pan Fried Fillet of Sea Bass, Red Lentil Dhal.

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Pan fried Atlantic cod with local wild garlic, crispy Parma ham and Rutland Water asparagus at The Finches, Hambleton, home of chef Mark Gough.

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Pan fried sea bass with asparagus and edible flowers at Rushton Hall, Kettering, courtesy of Head Chef Adrian Coulthard.

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David Buckowicki, Head Chef of Barnsdale Lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cannon of Derbyshire lamb, aubergine caviar, caponata, sautĂŠed peppers and new potato fondant.

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OUR FEATURED RESTAURANTS Please note, featured dishes are representative examples of our featured chefs’ skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change often, so dishes remain subject to availability. Check each restaurant’s website prior to your visit for a fresh menu to avoid disappointment.

Barnsdale Lodge: Exton Ln, Oakham LE15 8AH 01572 724678, www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

Hambleton Hall’s Head Chef Aaron Patterson presents Truffled Cauliflower Cheese.

Kilworth House’s Karl Dovey offers this smoked tea-cured salmon with wasabi emulsion and pickled rhubarb.

The Coach House: South Luffenham, Oakham LE15 8NT, 01780 720866, www.thecoachhouseinn.co.uk.

The Finch’s Arms: Hambleton, LE15 8TL, 01572 756575, www.finchsarms.co.uk.

Hambleton Hall: Ketton Road, Oakham LE15 8TH, 01572 756991, www.hambletonhall.com.

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Kilworth House: North Kilworth LE17 6JE, 01858 880058, www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.

The Olive Branch: Clipsham, Oakham LE15 7SH 01780 410355, www.theolivebranchpub.com

Craig McCready’s Blowtorched mackerel, sour leaf, fresh radish, mooli crisp, glazed soy gel at Stamford’s William Cecil.

Paten & Co: All Saints Place, Stamford PE9 2AG, 01780 408647, www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

Rushton Hall: Kettering NN14 1RR, 01536 713001, www.rushtonhall.com.

Nick Evans presents this herb-crusted spring lamb dish at Clipsham’s Olive Branch.

The William Cecil: St Martins, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2LJ, 01780 750070, www.hillbrookehotels.co.uk.

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In the kITCHEn

British Asparagus season begins on 23rd April coinciding with St George’s Day. Here are our to three serving suggestions...!

BRunCH MuFFInS

with Local Asparagus, Egg and Bacon

Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 15-20 minutes. Serves: Four. 2 tbsp olive oil • 12 rashers smoked streaky bacon • Four English muffins, split • 25g butter • 4 large eggs • 200g British asparagus tips • salt and freshly ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 120°C. Add half the olive oil to another frying pan and fry bacon until crisp. Transfer to a plate line with kitchen paper and leave to drain. Spilt the muffins open and toast on both sides, spreading with a little butter if you like. Transfer the muffins and the bacon to the low oven to keep warm.

Fill a deep-frying pan with boiling water from the kettle water and add a pinch of salt, setting over a high heat to bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a minimum so you just see a few gentle bubbles forming. Crack an egg into to a small bowl and slide gently into the water, lowering the bowl as close to the water surface as you can so the egg doesn’t spread out. Repeat with the other eggs and leave to poach until cooking to your liking, about 5-7 minutes.

Bring a pan of water to the boil, add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 until just tender. drain well, drizzle over the rest of the olive oil and season with a little salt and pepper. keep warm with the muffins and bacon if the eggs are not quite ready. use a slotted spoon to lift the eggs from the water to a plate lined with kitchen paper. Allow to drain for a few seconds. To assemble the muffins, start by adding 3 rashers of bacon to each muffin. divide the seasoned asparagus between each muffin and finish with a poached egg. Top with other half of the muffin and tuck in immediately.

Recipes & Dishes: www.britishasparagus.com.

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ASPARAGuS & lEMon FETTuCCInE Ingredients: 250g local Asparagus, trimmed • Finely grated zest and juice of ½ lemon • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 150g De Cecco Fettuccine All’Uovo • 25g pine nuts, toasted (optional) • Grated Grana Padano cheese to serve (optional)

Cook the asparagus in a pan of boiling water for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Remove from the water with a slotted spoon and cut into short lengths. keep warm. Place 100ml of the asparagus cooking water in a small pan with the lemon juice. Return to the heat and boil rapidly for five minutes until reduced and syrupy. Whisk in the olive oil to create an emulsion and season. Cook the pasta in boiling water for four minutes until tender. drain and toss the pasta with the asparagus, lemon zest, pine nuts and reduced stock. Season and serve in warm bowls with the grated Grana Padano cheese, if you wish. n

EASy ASPARAGuS & RICoTTA PIzzAS

Ingredients: 500g Sun-Dried Tomato & Chilli Bread Mix from Waitrose • 250g tub Ricotta • 230g bunch local British Asparagus, halved lengthways • 1 tbsp olive oil • 4 tbsp fresh Green Pesto with Basil

Place the bread mix in a large bowl, setting aside a handful for dusting the surface. Make a well in the centre, add 250ml lukewarm water then bring together to make a slightly sticky dough. knead the dough vigorously for 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. divide the dough into four even-sized balls then roll out to make 26 x 12cm ovals. Transfer to two large, non-stick baking sheets. Preheat the oven to 220ºC, gas mark 7. Spoon the ricotta onto the pizza bases then place the asparagus on top. drizzle lightly with olive oil and leave to rise for 10 minutes. Bake for 15 minutes until the base is cooked through and the asparagus is tender. dot over the pesto and finish with a good grinding of black pepper. Serve warm. n Recipes & Dishes: www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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SPRInG ASPARAGuS & GoAT’S CHEESE TART

Prep time: 30 minutes. Cooking time: 40 minutes. Ingredients: 1 x 230g sheet Shortcrust Pastry, thawed • 230g bunch local Asparagus, trimmed • 130g pack Goat’s Cheese, cubed • 4 medium free range eggs • 150ml single cream • ½ x 15g pack chives, snipped

Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. unroll the pastry sheet and line a 23cm loose-bottomed flan tin with it, trimming the excess to fit. Prick with a fork. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes then line with a crumpled sheet of greaseproof paper over the pastry and weigh it down with baking beans or rice grains. Bake blind for 10 minutes then remove the beans or rice & paper and return to the oven for a further five minutes. Meanwhile steam the asparagus for five minutes until just tender. drain and run under cold water. Pat dry with kitchen paper and cut into 5cm lengths. Arrange over the base of the pastry case and scatter over the cubed goat’s cheese. Whisk together the eggs, cream and chives. Season the mixture and pour into the pastry case. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the filling is set and the top golden. Serve warm or cold. n

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Would a gin by any other flavour be as sweet?

Wine of the Month

Edna Valley Chardonnay,

Floral ranges including colour-changing rose gin from Secret Garden...

US, 2015/16 £15.99 / 75cl / 14% ABV

What a treat for spring - a reminder that summer is just around the corner with a scent of an English country garden. The old Curiosity distillery has launched three Secret Garden gins, with lavender & Echinacea, Chamomile & Cornflower and Apothecary Rose.

The latter changes colour slightly with lemon or tonic and comes with a garnish bag containing rose petals. Subtle and floral in flavour, we have to ask, would a gin by any other name smell - or indeed taste - as sweet...? n £36 / 50cl / 39% ABV.

The Wine Cellar A SUPER SELECTION OF SPRING TREATS FROM AN ENGLISH DESSERT WINE TO A FLORAL GIN AND A TRIO OF MALBEC WINES TO CELEBRATE THE REGION’S DAY THIS MONTH... CELEBRATE WORLD MALBEC DAY: 17th April 2019...

1. Celebrate World Malbec Day in style with this sublime high-end example. Deep purple in colour, blackberry with hints of violets, sweet spices, vanilla and tobacco. It’s full bodied with black pepper spice. £29.99 / 75cl / 14% ABV. 2. Alternatively, for a mid-range Malbec, this Pulenta Mendoza is exclusive to Berry Bros and Rudd, and is a 2017 vintage with a soft hedgerow-fruit aroma, allied to a bright, raspberry freshness. £12.50 / 75cl / 14.5% ABV. 3. And finally, for a midweek Malbec, Waitrose is offering this organic, Fairtrade example for a snip. Intense, rich, pure and ethical. A guilt-free mid-week indulgence from one of the area’s best names. £7.99 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV.

This is one of California’s coolest vineyard areas, and one of the coolest options for a spring Chardonnay, ideal whether temperatures continue to be mild or the warmer weather decides to treat us to a little sunshine. Edna Valley is the ideal location for creating refined, restrained and elegant Chardonnay. The grapes are whole-bunch pressed and fermented in French and Hungarian oak. Combining typically Californian richness of texture with great freshness of fruit and subtle complexity, with crisp acidity cutting through the layers of ripe apple fruit and toasty oak A fine match for roast dinners, we sourced this example from Majestic. n

A Very Cool Dessert Wine

...made in England!

Here’s an unusual prospect. Ice wine is a type of dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. The sugars and other dissolved solids do not freeze, but the water does, allowing for a more concentrated grape juice to develop. To our knowledge, Eglantine north Star is the only English-made ice wine, ideal to accompany fruity puddings or chocolate desserts. A nice blend of acid and sweetness, this wine is actually made in nottinghamshire!

n £34.99 / 35cl / 10.5% ABV.

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

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HOMES & INTERIORS

A Family Home for All Creatures

GREAT & SMAll

For countryside vet turned pharmacology expert Fieke Bennett, her home in Greetham is great for all creatures great - like the llamas which peep over the back hedge - and small, her two sons, aged three and five. With a move elsewhere in the village beckoning, Fi has put her beautifully restored property on the market. Its next owner will enjoy plenty of space and family-friendly accommodation... 68

Words: Rob Davis.

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Rutland and Stamford arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too far removed from the sort of rural idyll that James Herriott espoused in that long-running Tv series All Creatures Great and Small.

Fieke Bennett and her family settled in Rutland after a career in the armed forces, first renting a place in the village from 2009 and having fallen in love with the village, purchasing their home, a renovated former smallholding in 2011. Back then Fi enjoyed being in the saddle, but since the children have come along, now aged three and five, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had to swap great creatures for small ones. Above: The propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen features a wealth of premium appliances and a duck-egg blue colour scheme.

Right: The opposite end of the dining kitchen has a generous lounge/diner for family time.

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No worries for Fi though. The former vet, specialising in equine ailments, is now working in the pharma industry instead but still gets all misty-eyed when she sees locals on horseback heading out around the village for some recreational hacking.

Village life, she says, still holds great appeal for those with four legs or two legs alike, and in particular she praises the area’s schools and the nice safe slow pace of life that Greetham offers.

Whilst its lovely white stonework and neat presentation gives the impression that Fi’s house, on the quaintly titled Pond Lane, may give the impression that its a new property, the house is in fact more than 200 years old, although the family did expand it in 2017,

“Whilst the property’s clean stonework and neat presentation gives the impression that it’s a new property, the house is in fact more than 200 years old...” adding onto the already spacious accommodation a new sitting room, play room, hallway and cloakroom as well as a new large master bedroom suite with dressing room and en suite. Arranged over two storeys and with four reception rooms and four bedrooms and two en suites, there’s plenty of space on a plot

that offers decent space for family life without leaving you at the mercy of a high maintenance garden in the summer months.

The property’s previous owners completed a rather substantial renovation. They were originally planning to use the property as a bed and breakfast hotel, so all of the fixtures and fittings in the kitchen are geared up if not for commercial use then at least for a busy family.

Fi and her family have also put their mark on the house, in particular with a new colour scheme in the kitchen, duck-egg coloured bespoke cabinetry with solid timber toppers. There’s a large gas-fuelled range cooker, no fewer than three fridges and even a built-in deep fat fryer as well as a built in dishwasher. >> 71

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>> Throughout the property’s ground floor there’s Indian sandstone, whilst light oak beams, solid oak doors and exposed timber and stone throughout helps to maintain the country feel of an otherwise modern, well-specified home.

And as in most modern houses, a large open plan living kitchen is the heart of the home, with a breakfast kitchen and lounge diner a great place for family meals Tv and homework.

There’s a formal sitting room, too, with its feature fireplace and wood burner, as well as an entrance hall which would also make a cracking study. Completing the complement of downstairs rooms, there’s a playroom to keep the kids’ clutter at bay.

Main: The open plan living kitchen with its family-friendly layout. Left: The two main bedrooms are generously sized.

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On the first floor the wonderful new master suite in the property’s west wing is complemented by the original master suite in the east wing of the house with its en suite bathroom. With two further bedrooms sharing a Jack ‘n’ Jill en suite, there’s plenty of accommodation on each floor.

Outside, meanwhile, there are delightful views over a generous paddock where your new neighbours, a trio of llamas are in residence, plus south-facing front gardens and a generous terrace. There’s a working well, too, and your summer workload is kept to a minimum by means of an area of artificial lawn, and even the children are kept busy with their own dedicated play area. With a move elsewhere in the village beckoning, Fieke and the family are seeking new custodians for the house, but say they’ll miss the place a great deal. It’s an ideal property, we think, for families with all creatures, both great... and small! n

POND LANE, GREETHAM Style: 200 year old sympathetically modernised family home. Bedrooms: Four, two with en suites, two sharing ‘Jack ‘n’ Jill’ en suite. Receptions: Four currently arranged as living kitchen, drawing room, playroom and inner hall Features: Double garage annexe. Price: £795,000. Find Out More: Pond Lane is currently on the market with Murray, Market Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DY. Call 01572 755555 or see www.murrayestateagents.co.uk.

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HOME FURNISHINGS

botanic and organic Whether you take your inspiration from flora, fauna, or animals, nature provides plenty of inspiration for your spring home, as these collections of leading designers’ best botanical prints prove... Is there a more prolific designer than nature? We can’t think of one, so why not take mother nature’s inspiration when you come to create your own home? As nature unveils its palette of spring colours blue skies, green leaves and new colour in the garden, it can also provide inspiration for your home, with either subtle or more dramatic botanical prints.

We’ve selected floral, botanical or jungle-inspired prints all designed for anything from a welcoming classical hallway to a totally tropical orangery, with a couple of whimsical prints thrown in too, ideal for those who are seeking something a little more eye-catching. From the relatively restrained Romey’s Garden opposite to the bold botanical prints shown overleaf, natural prints against white linen or bold coloured backdrops can look truly impressive whether you’ve a classical or modern room.

We’ve selected fabrics and wallcoverings from the collections of leading brands stocked by the area’s local independent interior designers. These companies can help you to create anything from a bespoke chair or sofa, to window dressings to cushions, and can also help to provide design advice whether you’re simply looking for a few

pointers on one aspect of your room or you need a complete design consultation for anything from a single room to your entire house.

using an interior designer should never end up being a cost as it typically prevents householders from making poor design decisions. The result is a room that has longer lasting appeal, and looks great year after years. >>

Opposite: Ambleside by Prestigious Textiles, curtains in Yarrow Samphire, cushions in Derwent Autumn, Yarrow Hollyhock £12.74/m. Above: Romey’s Garden by Zoffany wallpaper £87/roll.

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Above: Farne Grasses in cream and sage from Sanderson £66/roll; Cushions in Seahouses £48/m; Spindlestone linen £60/m, all from the Embleton Bay collection. Right: Potting Room by Sanderson, cushions in Chervil, Meade, Spring Leaves and Elm £41/m.

Opposite Page, Top/Left: Cushions in Spruce Cedrus, cushions in Laurus Slate and Taxus Steel by Larsen at Colefax & Fowler. Top/Right: GP & J Baker Nympheus Wallpaper £98/roll. Bottom/Left: Cole & Son Fern Wallpaper, £100/roll.

Bottom/Right: Sanderson The Allotment fabric £25.50/m; wallpaper £51/roll.

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“We’ve selected floral, botanical or jungle-inspired prints all designed for anything from a welcoming classical hallway to a totally tropical orangery...”

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Main: Clarke & Clarke Bukhara, cushions in Bukhara, Mitra and Shiraz. Curtains in Bukhara Citrus ÂŁ59m2.

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Top: Sanderson Chiswick Grove fabric in sage £60/m. Above: Clarke and Clarke Exotica Madagascar £29/m. Above: Designer’s Guild Veronese, sofa in Vittoria Antique Jade, cushions in Lauziere Leaf and Melton Moss, £85/m. Right: Harlequin Sakura, cushions in Sorano £44/m and Hanna £33/m.

Local Suppliers...

Cavells Home, oakham 01572 770372 www.cavells.co.uk. Delcor Interiors, Stamford 01780 762579 www.delcor.co.uk. Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors, oakham 01572 722345 www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk. Eye4Design, Covering Spalding, Stamford & Rutland 01775 680109, www.eye4designupholstery.co.uk. Furniture Loft, M/Harborough, lE16 7PT, 01858 435500, www.furnitureloft.co.uk Furleys, Rutland 01572 755539 www.furleys.co.uk. H Works, Stamford 01780 754605 www.hworksdesign.co.uk. J&L Ball, Stamford 01780 481416, www.jlball.co.uk. Oldrids Downtown Boston & Gonerby Junction Grantham, 01205 350505, 01476 590239 www.oldrids.co.uk. Paul Edwards Interiors, Hinckley lE10 0Bl, 01455 616095. Sarah Harding Interiors, uppingham, 01572 823389 www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk. n

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25 large room settings in our extensive showroom • Contemporary, traditional, modern & handmade bespoke kitchens • Design, supply, manage and install

• Affordable, quality kitchens and and the latest designs on display • Over 60 appliances on show

The best quality, best value and best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

Your local appointed Sheraton dealer and Neff Master Partner

Our customers can’t recommend our services highly enough, offering our vision and knowledge that becomes seamlessly transformed into a practical working living space.

THE AREA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT KITCHEN SHOWROOM The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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

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ELIZABETH STANHOPE INTERIORS

e Finest interior design in the area

With over 20 years experience as an interior designer, Elizabeth Stanhope is the creative lead for a team dedicated to providing the area’s finest homes with outstanding interiors; classic, understated and elegant spaces to fall in love with... After 20 years in the world of interiors, Elizabeth Stanhope is the creative lead for a tremendously talented team dedicated to creating the finest interiors in the area.

Immersed in a world of good taste, practical design and innovative products, her passion for classic design shines through from oakham to Tuscany, Belgravia to new york and in all of the residential and commercial projects she has completed in-between. And the designer sincerely believes in creating not just homes that reflect the unique tastes of her client, but spaces which function well too. “using a good interior designer to recreate a room in your home, or to help you to refurbish an entire property should help you to avoid costly mistakes - like creating a room you’re not completely happy with, or one that looks good but doesn’t function well for your family.”

“People very often lack confidence in how their space should look, how it should feel, and importantly the best approach to layout and lighting. our job is to inspire, to read between the lines, and ultimately to listen.”

“one of the most important qualities of an interior decorator, other than an eye for design, is an ear to listen - to really understand what a client is searching for.”

Born in Tur langton, Elizabeth purchased the business from her mother in 2002, after returning from an interior design career in london and subsequently from her freelance work in and around the capital. >> Opposite: The company can provide a whole range of interior design services and can source furnishings to give your room a complete and cohesive look. 84

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>> The business is based in oakham’s former fire station on Mill Street with an additional Grade I listed showroom and project office studio further along the street.

Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors offers new and antique products demonstrating the breadth and quality of bespoke furniture, lighting, stock fabric, gifts, tabletop and lifestyle products. From locally restored chandeliers to bespoke sofas and chairs made to your exact dimensions, the team’s ‘sourcing’ service is unequalled.

Elizabeth Stanhope’s original showroom houses among the largest collection of fabric, wallpaper and trimmings from brands such as Mulberry, GP & J Baker, Colefax & Fowler and lewis & Wood.

“Elizabeth and the team’s ability to deliver the finest interiors for her clients’ is unsurpassed...” The Elizabeth Stanhope team are always on hand to help, advise and most importantly make a nice cup of tea or coffee whilst you take your time.

The ES team are a wonderful reminder of quality customer service, and are always available whether for a quick piece of advice, to provide sample cuttings from one of their many stock fabrics, to discuss a window treatment or an upholstery project, or to arrange a full design service for anything from a single room to a whole home. Elizabeth and the team’s ability to deliver the finest interiors for her clients’ is unsurpassed.

Expertise is valuable, but inspiration is priceless, and yet that most valuable quality is available in abundance, courtesy of Elizabeth. n

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get the LOOK THE TEAM PICK THEIR FAVOURITE PRODUCTS FROM THE ES SHOWROOMS

Blue Stripe sofa two-seat £999; three-seat £1399. Ornamental Tin bath tub £299. White Hydrangea Plants in Garden Pot £199.99.

Geometric Lamb wool throw £89.95 Clifton Ball glass lamp with shade £179. Abba, Blue: Stock fabric £27.99 per metre.

n Elizabeth Stanhope is based at 17 and 27 Mill St, Oakham LE15 6EA. Call 01572 722345 or see www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk. 87

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HOMES

Parrot & Palm Azure Cushion Exotic palms, colourful parrots. A large statement cushion by John derian £75.

Peonia Chartreuse Cushion

layers of white create majestic detail perfect for enhancing sofas and chairs £138.

Chimney Swallows Sky Blue

Composed skies and swooping swallows pair gracefully in this tranquil scene £95.

So-Good FoR SoFAS Dragonfly Over Clouds

Bold detailed dragonfly set on a vintage engraving of an ethereal sky £95.

Rose Swedish Blue

deeply romantic and inherently inspiring, in cool tones of chalky blue £90.

Sofas only look so good without the love of a comfy statement cushion or two! Here are our favourites from luxury brand Designer’s Guild...

Exquisite painterly roses in white and duck egg tones £95.

Arjuna Leaf Viridian

Paeonia Albiflora Celadon

Highly detailed study of a peacock on luxurious velvet £90.

Carrara Fiore Verde

Exquisite and highly ornate illustration of peonies in bloom £95.

For more information see www.designersguild.com.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

FRoM RuGS To RICHES

The Rug Studio retails, repairs and restores! uppingham’s Rachel Simpson has the world at her feet - quite literally. The tradition, culture and international significance of an antique or contemporary rug is vast, with designs giving away a huge amount of information. And where should your rug go if it’s seen better days...? To a true expert!

Rachel Simpson’s ‘three Rs’ are not reading, writing and arithmetic, but retailing rugs; repairing rugs and restoring rugs! A seemingly innocuous home staple, warm and comforting underfoot, rugs are actually an elaborate and culturally specific product from the country and era in which they’re produced. on a practical level, though, rugs are subject to a fair bit of wear and tear when families walk all over them, so having an expert who can guide you through choosing a rug that both suits your taste but can stand up to your practical needs, and suits your room too is nothing short of an art. Fortunately Rachel has over 10 years experience retailing and repairing rugs, and can quickly impart a huge amount of knowledge about a rug’s provenance, its country and year of origin... even the mood of a weaver during its creation!

This richer knowledge allows Rachel to direct clients towards the perfect rug for them, and to advise on how to add a potentially huge amount on to the value of an antique rug with sensitive restoration.

Whilst some rugs can retail for tens of thousands of pounds, Rachel has many examples from just a few hundred pounds which will prove beautiful, but also last for decades and prove a great investment.

With professional surface cleaning and deep pile washing too, Rachel can also help to protect your investment or secure the value of an antique rug. From fine flat-weave geometric kilims to thick, hand-spun Gabbehs from Persia, to contemporary rugs like those by uS artist Rex Ray, Rachel can advise on any style to suit both the spaces within your home but also your own tastes. “It’s a huge subject, and there’s so much ‘hidden’ information within a rug,” says Rachel. “This month we’re relaunching our website and we’re incorporating into it a sort of beginner’s guide to the different countries, cultures, methods of construction and different ages for the collections we stock.”

“We think it’s really important that everyone understand and appreciates what’s beneath their feet, taking their knowledge from rug to riches!” n

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1. Ikat rug from a portfolio of antique and semi-old rugs in Uppingham.

2. Contemporary rugs are available from modern designers like Rex Ray.

3. Rachel’s rugs range in size from doormat-size to 7m x 5m

Above: Rachel Simpson retails, repairs and restores antique, semi-old and contemporary rugs in Uppingham. She’s vastly knowledgeable and has rugs from doormat-size to 7m x 5m and from £40 to £60,000. The Rug Studio is based on High St East, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9PZ. Call 01572 829927.

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Main: Mirrored tray £30, Brass Resin Bottle Opener, £12, Gold Base Martini glasses, £24/pair, Pink Cocktail Shaker, £15, Serene Rounded Platter, £18. From Marks & Spencer, Queensgate.

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HOMES

Orla Kiely Vase

orla kiely layered vase, Pink, 27cm, £50, John lewis.

Gold Trinket Box

John lewis & Partners Butterfly Round Trinket Box £15.

A RuSH oF

BluSH

Brushed Gold Manhattan 16 Piece Cutlery Set M&S £́49.50.

You’ll be in the pink with this season’s most on-trend colours. Look out for an influx of pink and gold products for your home... like those we’re showing off here!

Cupcake Armchair

Large Wire Globe

Gold Cutlery

By loaf at John lewis, Clever Softie Tuscan Pink, £1,199.

£39.50, M&S.

Relaxed Country Throw Pink, 200cm x 250cm, £25, John lewis & Partners.

Table Lamp

zaina Table lamp, Gold £120, from John lewis & Partners.

Smeg Kettle & Toaster

kettle £120; Four-slice Toaster£120, from John lewis & Partners.

John Lewis & Partners and Marks & Spencer are based in Queensgate Shopping Centre alongside 100 other retailers. For more information on the centre see www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk.

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OLYMPIC MARBLE

Quality set in

STonE

For the ultimate in luxury, practicality and style in your new kitchen or bathroom, nothing beats the cool solid feel of granite, quartz and marble. Specialists Olympic Marble can provide greater choice and exceptional value, direct from the quarry... Words: Rob Davis.

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Solid work surfaces or beautiful, naturally veined wall or floor tiles add a sense of luxury, quality and solidity to your new kitchen or bathroom. Cool to the touch, resistant to day-to-day family use, it’s the material engineered by nature over millions of years designed to make your new room look and feel absolutely premium. Most kitchen and bathroom providers can offer both natural and engineered surfaces. But consumers, architects and interior designers now have another option in the form of Peterborough’s olympic Marble. The specialist stocks over 200 slabs and many more available direct from quarries in locations like Italy and Greece.

“olympic Marble provides luxury marble, quartz and engineered stone for kitchens, bathrooms, walls or floors...”

For over 12 years, nick Polychronidis and his 15-strong team have been sourcing and processing marble, granite, quartz and engineered surfaces to order. no job is too large nor too small; no project is too ambitious and the firm can provide their materials direct from the quarry at a price that’s highly competitive compared to other suppliers. The team have sophisticated computercontrolled CnC machines to cut pieces with

sub-millimetre accuracy, and because they specialise in their products, the company can offer a greater range of choice as well as some unusual and very beautiful options for your next project. With each slab in their studio weighing in at between 400kg and 900kg, the firm are heavyweight experts in helping customers to find just the right material for their projects, and installing their products with precision. Customers choose from a range of beautiful, resistant and hard-wearing materials that have been millions of years in the making. n Olympic Marble is based at Wainman Rd, Peterborough PE2 7BU. Call 01733 687414 or see www.olympic-marble.co.uk.

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Look through any window... Roy Wakeman, OBE, is Chairman of The New Window Company and a champion of energy efficient, attractive and secure timber windows and doors. 1960s group The Hollies inspire him to ask, as you look through any window, what do you see...? You may ask, what has the first line of a famous Hollies single got to do with the windows and doors market? But then again what do you see? looking out through your windows gives you a view of the street, garden or a neighbourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property and of course the state of the prevailing weather.

If you are unlucky not to have the benefit of modern windows with double glazing and weather seals, you might very well hear the activities going on outside and even feel the draught through your old frames where the sash meets the window frames.

Switch the view now, looking at the windows and doors from your street or front lawn and you will immediately be struck by how important these are to the look of your house and in some cases can recognise the era in which the house was built if a period property. In a survey carried out in 2008 estate agents, commissioned by a leading building society, it said that the most important feature that could affect the value of the house was the design and quality of the windows and doors, if they matched the style of the house and which material had been used to make them.

Few would argue that the street presentation of the house is the biggest selling feature, and nothing adds more to

this than well designed and made windows and doors. Modern fenestration products whatever the material used to build them are fully tested to all the extremes of weather and offer the benefit of less money spent on energy, and having a safer, warmer and quieter house in which to live and enjoy. If you live in a period property that might be listed, there will be some restrictions about design, material and glazing applications. However local authorities look kindlier now on the use of timber products with double glazing units.

Modern examples are built from laminated engineered sections, treated against twist and rot and they can be finished with modern factory applied paint systems. All modern windows and doors now must conform to the very best performance standards and new security legislation.

So next time you look out of your windows and doors or from the street at your house, think about the value of your house and how much that depends upon what you have installed. The new Window Company has extensive showrooms at Frieston Heath near Grantham where all the products mentioned here can be viewed as full size working models in a range of different materials. n

Find Out More: New Window Company is based at Elms Farm, The Old Barn, Frieston Heath Lane, Grantham NG32 3HD. For a free no obligation discussion about your propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs call 01400 272538 or see www.new-window.co.uk.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

More space, More style and a great investMent For your hoMe What household wouldn’t make good use of more space, or enjoy adding style to their living space? What property owner would object to adding value to their home? Satisfying all of the above and providing many more benefits besides is ketton’s Bespoke design...

Space is a luxury, but what happens when you’re craving more living space even though you love where you live? When you adore your village or don’t want to leave your property? Extending your home could be the solution, but that’s often impractical or fraught with expense and hassle.

Imagine, though, a new reception room; modern and fit for purposes, one that’s designed to offer you a spacious, temperate place to relax or entertain.

Imagine a structure that blends beautifully with your period property and seamlessly fuses together your home and garden. Imagine a provider who can take the work away from extending your home and simply craft a bespoke orangery at a fraction of the price of major building projects and with none of the hassle of moving home.

That’s just what Bespoke design’s craftspeople have been doing for a number of years. When families need more living space for a reception room, when a new room is required to house a state-of-the-art kitchen and when an older property can no longer accommodate a modern family, people turn to Bespoke design and their team to mitigate space with style. Bespoke design is part of a larger group, Bespoke developments, which specialises in larger civil projects working alongside architects and property developers. However, their company’s expertise also filter down into the domestic market with a range of beautifully crafted orangeries with the latest glazing and hardwood structures. >>

Opposite: Bespoke Design is based in Rutland, supplying and installing beautiful orangeries, conservatories, roof lights, windows and doors across the region. 103

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“no two properties and no two households are the same so Bespoke design’s service is, as the firm’s name suggests, tailored to each individual client. Prices range from just £30,000 but can reach six figures...” >> “our hardwood orangeries and conservatories blend traditional workmanship and time-honoured construction with up-to-theminute technology like thermally efficient glazing to ensure your room is temperate all year round,” says the company.

“The era of poorly constructed, discoloured and stifling plastic conservatories are long gone. Today we know how to create structures that suit even listed properties or those in conservation areas and to ensure that they’re usable spaces all year round.” no two properties and no two households are the same so Bespoke design’s service is, as the firm’s name suggests, tailored to every different client. Prices range from just £30,000 but can reach six figures. Typically the initial investment is simply recouped by a corresponding increase in the value of your home, but the structures are designed to last decades, so whether you’re remaining in your home or expecting to move on in a few years, the initial cost is often a shrewd investment in your home. Bespoke design’s service is turnkey, too. Rather than liaising with different tradespeople there’s a single accountable point of contact, with the firm’s sister company Max Studios providing a sophisticated CGI visualisation of how the structure will look against your home.

A tailor-made service sees the company visiting your site to determine a customer brief and assess technical feasibility. With in-house architects and build managers offering a totally free design service, the firm not only handles the formal design process but liaises with your local council’s planning and listed building departments before taking care of construction and if required, the firm can also work with kitchen contractors or interior designers.

“our experienced architectural designers will walk you through the whole process from start to finish so you know what’s involved. They will talk you through the benefits of using certain materials and what design will best suit your property.”

“In most cases where possible it is useful if all interested parties are present at the first meeting as the initial design briefing is very important to get your design right first time. We’ve completed so many jobs for customers who have praised not just the spaces we 104

create and the difference they make for families in their properties day to day, but also the service we offer, from turning up promptly, to our employees minimising disruption for the client and tidying up during work.”

“The aim is to offer a service and a space that will look great, function well and increase both the use and value of your home. If you are considering an orangery, conservatory, garden room, windows, doors or a roof lantern, just choose your material and the leave the rest to us. We’re market leaders in creative design, with the flexibility, expertise and flair to create a space that’s completely bespoke, personally tailored to you and to your home.” n

Above: Bespoke Design specialises in both traditional but also contemporary spaces. Opposite: The company works with both hardwood timber and aluminium products.

Find Out More: Bespoke Design specialises in orangeries, garden rooms, conservatories, windows & doors and roof lights. The company is based in Ketton with visits to their showroom by appointment. For a free, no obligation discussion about your project, call 01780 722401 or see www.bespokerutland.co.uk.

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PETER’S Perfect Paintings PETER DE WINT Landscape artist Peter De Wint (1784 – 1849) is synonymous with the Lincolnshire countryside and this international heavyweight in the world of 19th century painting remains as popular as ever.

Born not in Lincolnshire but probably in Hanley, Staffordshire, his father was no artist but a doctor from Dutch ancestry.

De Wint quickly became educated and highly talented under the tutorage of the renowned engraver John Raphael Smith during his apprenticeship in London from 1802 to 1806. Smith was obviously impressed and as a condition of apprentice freedom, De Wint had to supply him with 18 oil paintings, however by this stage he had become a master in this discipline and more especially in watercolour. It was around this time he visited Lincolnshire, with another artist William Hilton, whose sister Harriet, De Wint married in 1810. The three continued to live in London but had a house built for her parents in Lincoln and it was this association coupled with the beautiful landscape of the surrounding area as to why so much of his work depicts the county. He did travel throughout the United Kingdom though with Cumbria and Wales popular areas and went abroad once, to Normandy in the late 1820s.

The watercolour illustrated is a view of Newark, showing the bridge and castle, it is a blueprint of De Wint’s style and made £3000 at our Lincoln saleroom

in 2018. It is unsurprising we have had great success with his works and have recently sold images of Cirencester, Caldicot Castle and Levens Park at remarkable levels with huge worldwide interest. He was accepted during his life as much as he is now as a highly accomplished master; exhibiting at the Royal Academy in 1809, becoming a fully fledged member of the Old Watercolour Society in 1811 and also spending time teaching.

He rarely signed or dated his works and limited his palette to ten colours, often stating his signature was ‘all over’ what he did. Works by Peter De Wint continue to grace the walls of major collections and museums alike and interest from buyers will never wane. With major collections on show in Lincoln, London and nearly any city you choose to mention, Peter De Wint’s legacy as one of the greatest landscape painters only continues to flourish. n

With best wishes, Craig Bewick, MRICS. Auctioneer Golding Young & Mawer, Grantham.

Find Out More: Craig Bewick is an antiques specialist with Golding, Young & Mawer: The Bourne Auction Rooms, Spalding Road, Bourne PE10 9LE, 01778 422686; The Grantham Auction Rooms, Old Wharf Road, Grantham NG31 7AA, 01476 565118; The Stamford Valuation Office, The George Mews, Station Road, Stamford PE9 2LB, 01780 751666 or The Lincoln Auction Rooms, Thos Mawer House Station Road, North Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 3QY, 01522 524984. Alternatively, see www.goldingyoung.com.

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SHOW GARDENS

Award-Winning Gardens

In addition to designing and creating beautifully landscaped spaces for the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes, david Greaves has been involved in the construction of an RHS Chatsworth Silver Gilt Garden and Co designed and constructed Belvoir Flower Showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2018 best in show garden Images: David Greaves & Tim Howell Photography.

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G A R D E N I N G

Below: David designed in conjunction with Karen Gimson, to create this show garden to raise awareness for the Rainbows Hospice at last year’s Belvoir Flower Show. It was awarded Best in Show by Her Grace the Duchess of Rutland.

Bottom Right: Rainbows Garden wooden drum kit made by Pete Brown and sold with the money contributed to Rainbows

Creating amazing spaces... that’s the aim of david Greaves landscape design and Construction. Specialists in hard landscaping, design and planting schemes. The couple work both independently but also in collaboration with leading RHS garden designers. The company has both domestic and commercial clients but have also worked on a number of show gardens and experienced particular success last year.

“Two of our favourite projects of 2018 were constructing a Centenary Celebration garden for John deere’s 100th anniversary installed at RHS Chatsworth, designed by Elspeth Stockwell and Joe Fairfax.

“The garden illustrated the feel of a local farmyard, with path ways leading to a circular granite cobbled area with a bespoke charred oak curved bench, designed and constructed by Paul Stockwell, in amongst the swaying grasses, planting and tractor sculptures representing the different machines.” “The garden was enclosed with a back drop of Charred oak screening to set off the planting style and colour to represent the John deere trademark colours.

“These stood around the circular seating area amongst the grasses to create height and differing shades within the show garden.”

david also designed and created a show garden at the Belvoir Flower Show to raise awareness for Rainbows Hospice.

“We designed in collaboration with karen Gimson Garden design and created a space to reflect the thoughs and emotions when parents first visit Rainbows and are dealt such tragic news about a loved one.” “The garden entrance with the curved stone and oak seat set among the planting gives the form of a hug and is designed to put parents and children at ease as they enter the tranquil space. The area has subtle fragranced planting and an Adezz water feature to give parents a space for thought and peaceful times.”

“A pathway walks under an archway beyond a perspex screen into a more vibrant area with children activities, planting, natural musical instruments to keep them entertained and busy when feeling so poorly.” “We have over 25 years of experience designing, producing and project managing garden projects, working within any space, large or small. We offer 2d concept and 3d visual design service to create your dream garden. All of our gardens are well-engineered, with high end materials to provide quality outdoor living and enjoyment” n

Find Out More: David Greaves Landscapes provides bespoke landscaping and garden design services. For a free no obligation quotation or to discuss their bespoke design fees call 07852371873, email info@davidgreavesdesign.co.uk, or visit www.davidgreavesdesign.co.uk.

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Making the most of your garden

We design every type of garden... large and small, town and country, formal and wild, potted and planted. And all of our designs are different, except for two very important details - they all make the most of your outdoor space, and every design we do is within the budget set by you, our client. So you spend what you want and we give you the best garden for your investment.

What do we do?

Whatever is required. We take on full design and build projects to advice on container planting. We love upgrading flower beds and borders or help with specific areas of your garden.

What do you get?

• An achievable design, based on your style and needs • An affordable garden scheme, based on your budget • A useable space to give you year-round pleasure • A design which makes the most of your site and location • An extra room filled with colour, texture, scent and style

What next? Contact Soo on 07545 007323 for an initial chat. www.soospectorgardens.co.uk Email Soo via soo@soospectorgardens.co.uk or see our work on Facebook and Instagram...

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KITCHEN GARDEN

A SPRING PROJECT: CREATE YOUR OWN

ADAM FROST WITH

OF BBC TV’S GARDENERS’ WORLD Have you ever stopped to consider whether the future will be better? For every decade since the mid-20th century, futurists gazed into their crystal balls and predicted that we’d be living on the moon. We’d wear tin foil, they said. We’d have flying cars, they said. We’d be popping nutritionally complete food pills eliminating the need to shop, cook and eat whilst consigning both starvation and food wastage to history across the globe.

It hasn’t happened. Instead some families even in this country struggle to feed themselves whilst others throw perfectly good food away from their larders, cupboards and refrigerators. Meanwhile our diets are poorer than ever, food intolerances are rife, obesity levels have reached unprecedented levels and our food arrives via increasingly complicated supply chains and everything we eat is the subject of industrialised processing. Supermarkets and Groceries

33p in every pound spent on food in the uk spent in Tesco, which has a 27.8% market share of all supermarkets. Its three main competitors, accounting for a further 15.8% (Sainsbury’s), 15.3% (Asda) and 10.4% (Morrisons) share of the supermarket sector; just four companies controlling nearly 70% of all our £28bn food and grocery supermarket shopping. Seasonality no longer applies; we can eat strawberries in January and game in June. The farming industry has had to resort to industrialised processes to keep us fed, whilst food producers have to incorporate preservatives, emulsifiers, antioxidants, bulking agents and flavour enhancers. A reward for convenience?

of course, being able to simply pick groceries up from the supermarket means we now have plenty of spare time as a society. But that’s time which is increasingly spent in a sedentary state; in front of Tv screens, smartphones and tablets or working longer hours in front of your work computer. In short, our diets are worse than ever, our activity levels are lower than ever and our stress levels are through the roof.

If only there were a way to address all three issues. To enable us to eat healthily, get some fresh air, relax and enjoy achieving something more constructive. We can think of nothing better to address all of the above than curating your own kitchen garden. >>

Above: Adam Frost established his kitchen garden in Barnack in July 2016. Today, he provides garden design and kitchen garden courses over one or two days throughout the year.

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C R E AT I N G

K I T C H E N

G A R D E N

>> To be fair, we’re perhaps overstating matters. There’s no single silver bullet to solve all of the above problems in a single fell swoop. For a start we don’t all have the space and large country homes no longer employ permanent staff - as was the case in years gone by - and we’re all time poorer by virtue of the increasing demands of our lifestyles. A Happy Medium

But there’s always a happy medium. Even if you can’t dedicate space, time and energy to creating a full kitchen garden, there’s always a compromise to be achieved between growing some of your own food and enjoying the sense of achievement that brings. From herbs on a window sill or tomatoes in a pot or growbag, to a single raised bed, or a few fruit trees in a corner of your garden. So what are the questions you need answering if you’re considering getting your growing going? We’ve sought the advice of Adam Frost, who moved to his domesday-era stone Barnack patch in 2016 but has lived and worked in the area since he moved here to work with Geoff Hamilton at Barnsdale Gardens when he was in his 20s. With in the three acre garden, which the broadcaster is gradually renovating, Adam has created a stunning kitchen garden. He has also been busy setting up The Adam Frost Garden School and now runs regular day or two day-courses on topics ranging from garden design, to gardening with edibles - fruit, veg and flowers. Adam’s Expertise...

our first advice is to dive in - to just get started - as any initial degree of success will encourage you to go further; like salad leaves in a pot in spring leading to strawberries in the summer and so on. And there’s no ‘wrong’ time to start your efforts.

“March and April are wonderful months to start growing your own food,’ says Adam. ‘The hedges come alive, the birds start singing and you can get out in the veg garden and get stuck in. It’s important to make sure the area you have put aside for growing is prepped, so free from weeds and dig in some compost, or RHS Ambassador Adam Frost is a landscape designer who has won well- rotted manure to put lots of goodness into seven gold medals at the Chelsea the ground. Weeding is one of those jobs all Flower Show and has written gardeners wish they didn’t have to do, but weeds two books. He moved to the area to work with Geoff appearing in spring is a good sign that the soil is Hamilton at Barnsdale warm enough to germinate seeds. In April, you can Gardens. plant out chitted potatoes in the ground or in grow bags and many seeds can be sown straight into the ground as the risk of frosts has hopefully past.”

Adam Frost

Pots and Containers...

Grow bags planted up in summer are ideal for germinating herbs and salads leaves, especially in a glasshouse or sunny spot. Grow cut-and-come-again crops for a supply of homegrown leaves all summer. Pots and troughs are ideal too, but make sure they are deep enough for the veg you are growing. you don’t need any special soil for growing veg, just a good quality, peat-free compost. However, you can buy special fruit and veg soil which contains extra nutrients to help your crops to grow. >> Opposite: Adam is a gardening presenter on BBC television, including Gardeners’ World as well as offering gardening and design courses from his Barnack plot.

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>> Crops like carrots, lettuce, peas and potatoes can be grown easily, as long as you take care not to let crops dry out or scorch in the summer and leave plenty of root space for crops. While fruit trees, vines and bushes can be planted in containers at any time of year, March and April are especially good months as there is plenty of time for the roots to establish. “A really quick, easy and rewarding thing that I love to grow are micro-herbs. you sow them as normal and harvest when the first set of true leaves have grown - these appear after the first set of leaves, which are called the seed leaves. Peashoots, coriander, mustards and radishes are good ones to try. you won’t believe how much flavour they have and are great to add to salads or as a garnish!”

Below: Adam’s brand new book will be available to buy from 4th April.

Making the most of space...

ADAM’S BRAND NEW BOOK... "Creating a garden doesn't need to be complicated.” This is the promise from Adam Frost, BBC Gardeners’ World presenter and winner of multiple Chelsea Flower Show gold medals. Regardless of your experience or budget, with Adam’s help and know-how you can design your dream garden, whether it's a small urban garden, a classic cottage garden, a suburban front garden, a low-maintenance space or a city roof terrace. Adam’s practical, no-nonsense approach strips away complex garden design concepts and focuses on your needs and preferred garden style to help you plan and build a garden that works for you. Starting right at the beginning, Adam takes you step by step through the whole process, inspiring you with simple garden design ideas to tackle a full garden makeover or a simple revamp of just one part of your garden, perhaps a tired herbaceous border, the patio, or a water feature. Learn how to design a garden that reflects your practical needs, lifestyle,

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budget, personality, soil, and climate. Build it yourself following the clear, uncomplicated step-by-step instructions that show you everything from laying turf to terraces, planting trees or building a raised bed or water feature. Enjoy it month by month with his simple checklist of what to do and when to keep your garden in shape. Creative by nature, Adam loves to connect each garden design to its natural landscape and surrounding architecture as well as to the people who are going to enjoy it. RHS How to Create your Garden is about designing an outside space that is real, achievable, and right for you. n RHS How to Create your Garden: Ideas and Advice for Transforming your Outdoor Space, 256 pages, is published by Dorling Kindersley. RRP £20, from good local bookshops from 4th April.

Just a few beds and canny rotation of crops throughout the year are sufficient to create a productive kitchen garden that can keep feeding a family throughout the year. Crop rotation also assists with soil fertility and weed control, and helps to control pests since most pests and diseases tend to attack specific plant families. Rotating beds through the year to grow legumes, onions and root vegetables, then brassicas in the autumn and winter followed by potatoes in the spring will enable you to ensure there’s always a crop heading towards a harvest. And so, to beds...

“one of the benefits of raised beds is that, if you don’t have the best soil in your garden, you are making space to add new soil and organic matter, which will create a good basis to start growing. For me, they’re brilliant.” “In my kitchen garden, which I built in 2016, I’ve used halfsleepers, about 6in deep and 50mm wide to maximise space. Most importantly they’re made of pressure treated timber, which means they are less likely to rot and because they’re not as wide as full-width sleepers, there’s more space to plant.”

“I’ve used rope too, so I can put net or fleece over the top. Two other advantages are that when you drag a hose pipe around the garden, corner posts prevent you dragging a hose over your crops, and when you’ve been weeding all day, they give you a bit of a hand getting up!”

“I’ve painted my raised beds grey, which ties them into the greenhouse and creates a nice finish. I’ve also got a table and benches next to the greenhouse. as it provides as useful place to work, as well as sit and enjoy the space. Just because it’s a working garden doesn’t mean it can’t be a beautiful space too!”

lastly, if you’re determined to maximise your available space and to yield as many crops as possible, or if you’d like to achieve the ultimate goal and become self-sufficient, professional advice is always available. Adam’s courses cover not just garden design, but planning and ways to maximise your resources, from kitchen garden to orchard to every last pot and container. Small class numbers make each course a fun and interactive experience, with emphasis on spending as much time outside, as in the classroom. n

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C R E AT I N G

K I T C H E N

G A R D E N

Get Your Growing Going: Advice for Creating a Kitchen Garden in Stamford & Rutland...

n Soo Spector Garden Design: From concept to completion, Soo Spector can plan and build your kitchen garden, working to any budget and on any size of plot, from single beds and courtyards to large gardens. Call 07545 007323 for a free, no obligation consultation on your project.

n Adam Frost: Gardening with Edibles Fruit, Veg & Flowers, Friday 26th April: Spend a day with Adam and find out how to get ready for the year ahead growing delicious crops. The day will centre around what to sow and grow ÂŁ185. Call 01780 740531 or see www.adamfrost.co.uk/courses.

n Barnsdale Gardens Spring Vegetables Week 20th - 26th May: Adam Frostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former home opens up all the productive areas normally off-limits to visitors with expert growers available to advise you on your kitchen garden. Call 01572 813200 or see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

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ENJOY RUTLAND PRIDE AND STAMFORD PRIDE, PLUS 3,000 OTHER MAGAZINES, EVERY MONTH ON YOUR TABLET OR MOBILE PHONE... Download Readly onto your iOS, Kindle or Android device to read and download over 3,000 magazines...

VISIT THE APP STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY STORE, AND DOWNLOAD READLY TODAY. UNLIMITED MAGAZINES, NO FIXED CONTRACT. 119

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WEDDINGS

Moving Mountains

This month’s featured bride and groom were hoping the rain would hold off for their special day... and it did. Unfortunately, the weather turned when they were half way up a mountain on their honeymoon! Photographer: Rebekah Robert Luxury Fine Art Photography, 07736 931496, www.rebekahrobert.com.

“Try not to worry.” That’s the advice of this month’s featured bride, Melissa Hull reflecting on the secret to planning a really successful wedding.

It’s good advice too, because some things just fall into place and work out for the best. Take the weather, for example. for the week running up to Melissa and fiancé Aaron’s wedding, thunderstorms were forecast and fingernails were nibbled worrying about whether the weather would capitulate.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS MELISSA AND AARON

The couple needn’t have worried. Far from bringing thunderstorms, the couple’s wedding day brought baking hot temperatures of 32°c when they married in July in Exton at Fort Henry.

Melissa is from Rutland whilst Aaron is from Peterborough. The two met in the sixth form of king’s School as young sweethearts and have been together ever since. Melissa is a motion capture engineer and Aaron works as a chemical engineer in the oil and gas industry. His work has seen him travel all over the uk before he was finally able to base himself permanently in Rutland.

The couple got the keys to their first house shortly before Christmas and Melissa remarked that it would be nicer if they were engaged before moving in. The couple went away skiing in the new year and Aaron had planned a romantic mountainside proposal.

unfortunately that was scuppered when Melissa accidentally found the ring. of course she kept quiet about her discovery but a guilty face gave it away and Aaron guessed she’d sussed out his plan! It didn’t matter; on the final night of the holiday Aaron still managed to pull a phenomenal proposal out of the bag with a sparkly ring and breathtaking views over Mont Blanc!

Wedding planning began in earnest and though Melissa and Aaron had never discussed potential wedding venues, both were familiar with the Exton Estate, where Melissa in particular had enjoyed many family dog walks and fun days out. Fort Henry, the estate’s lakeside fishing folly, is managed by the adjacent Barnsdale lodge hotel, and Melissa describes this as a marriage made in heaven. The hotel’s staff, she says, can’t do enough for their guests, with service that’s professional and second to none. In the baking heat and with the couple having opted for an outside ceremony, the hotel ensured a plentiful supply of water and ice to keep guests cool. “The first decision we made though was the photographer,” says Melissa. “Rebekah was amazing and has captured some really lovely photographs of us all... not just the day itself but the atmosphere and the expressions and feel of our wedding.”

Wedding Ceremony & Reception: Fort Henry and Barnsdale Lodge, Exton 01572 724678, www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk. Wedding Dress: RS Bridal Melton Mowbray, 01664 668076.

Groom’s Suits: Moss Bros 0333 3206677, www.mossbroshire.co.uk. Wedding Photographer: Rebekah Robert Luxury Fine Art Photography, 07736 931496, www.rebekahrobert.com. Wedding Video: Zade Film 07545 270496, www.zadefilm.co.uk.

Wedding Styling/Accessories: Lola Rose 07944 655995, lolarose-venuedressing.co.uk Flowers: Clare Banks, 07816 028434, www.claresweddingflowers.co.uk. n

“We decided we wanted her, and Fort Henry with a reception at Barnsdale lodge, and from there we liaised with both to find a date that suited everyone.”

Melissa found her dress, a fit-and-flare column gown by Essence, at RS Bridal Collection in Melton Mowbray. The groomsmen wore light grey which proved a sensible choice in the heat. Aaron’s mum and dad were also conscious of the climate as they battled on to create a wonderful ‘naked’ wedding cake decorated with flowers.

“We wanted an elegant but understated, wedding, classical but not too traditional, and above all, we wanted a really happy day celebrating with our friends and family.”>> 121

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- WEDDINGS -

“The ceremony was perfect, we exchanged personal vows as butterflies fluttered all around the flowers...!” >> The couple followed their outdoor ceremony with a champagne and canapé reception in the courtyard of Barnsdale lodge, which would also be the reception venue. Following the wedding breakfast the guests enjoyed a party in the hotel’s barn, with dance and am dram fan Melissa’s friend Sarah Bell working secretly to create a flashmob dance at the reception to entertain guests.

The couple’s wedding flowers were by Colsterworth’s Clare Banks, and included cream and red roses, dahlias, eucalyptus and herbs to provide a gentle scent in the bride’s trailing bouquet. “Aaron and I are both in agreement that the best thing about the day was that first glimpse we caught of each other as I began to walk down the aisle.” “The ceremony was absolutely perfect, we exchanged personal vows and as we did so there were butterflies fluttering all around the flowers, it was like something out of a movie; very magical!”

Indeed, magical should be a word that every couple uses to describe their day. Rather less magical, though, was the weather when the energetic couple opted to tackle the Three Peaks Challenge on their honeymoon. At Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben nevis wind and rain made an energetic endeavour even more exhausting. “We’ll tackle it again for our first anniversary,” says Melissa. “And this time we hope we have better weather... though not as warm as it was on our wedding day...!” n 122

Photographer: Rebekah Robert 07736 931496, www.rebekahrobert.com.

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OUTDOOR VENUES

Funky SPACES FoR

PARTy PlACES

Based in Uppingham, Funky Tents provides contemporary outdoor structures for events with up to 600 people... but they’re not just for weddings or village fêtes - even if you’ve a birthday party or family bash for 30, 50 or 100 people, Stuart Low can create funky spaces for use as party places... Picture a marquee. you’re imagining something square, white, probably a bit bland looking, right?

now imagine something more... well... funky. A venue that’s hexagonal, diamond-shaped or an outdoor space with open sides and a paraboloid roof. Think of a space that’s suitable for the weather you hope for, but that can be adapted to the weather that arrives on the day, too!

“That’s what Funky Tents is all about,” says Stuart low. “We’re not just here for big weddings and corporate events - although we can handle those too - but for family gatherings, summer parties and so on.” “our ‘Party Packs’ include our marquee, lights, dance floors, bar areas and furniture designed for parties with about 40 guests for £995, or 80 people for £1,995.”

“They’re designed to make your summer parties, garden events and birthdays really great. We can also provide our low-power lEd illuminated tables and chairs, ‘standing up’ tables, bean bags, dance floors plus luxury self-contained toilet blocks, silent generators and we can suggest outside caterers, or entertainment providers if you require them too.” “Some firms simply provide a structure. our service is more about event planning and helping to provide a space that’s in keeping with the style and character of the event you’re hosting.”

“We understand the psychology of where people gravitate to, and we plan chill-out, dining, or party areas accordingly.” “Simply put, we’re essential for creating a funky event in a funky tent and we can work with you to make your event a complete success!” n

n Funky Tents is based on Glaston Road, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9EU. Stuart and his 10-strong team provides a full, free, no obligation site survey and can create totally tailored spaces for your family party, birthday, village fête or for events like weddings. Call 0808 169 1690 or see www.funky-tents.co.uk. 125

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FloWERS Blooming Marvellous Wedding

Your wedding flowers are a really great tool for conveying your chosen colour scheme and they transform a room or a venue, into a wedding venue. Start thinking about them right from the moment you begin to look for your dress and choose your wedding venue to ensure you create a consistent look for your whole wedding. Perhaps the most traditional style of all wedding bouquets, the shower bouquet is the epitome 126

Create your colour scheme and carry through the look and theme of your wedding by taking advantage of independent florists. Find your floral designer on www.ukbride.co.uk...

of elegance and sophistication and is designed to gracefully flow out of the bride’s hands, with a natural look in many of the bouquets we’re seeing in the wedding world currently.

This cascading style was made popular by Princess diana in the 1980’s and has enjoyed something of a revival in recent years. Almost any type of flower can be included in the typical style of this arrangement,

which is often enhanced with trailing ivy and fresh foliage. Typically round in shape, the posy bouquet is a popular choice for modern brides as it is easy to handle and often small enough to be carried in one hand.

Alternatively, a great alternative to the traditional bouquet is a beautiful corsage worn on the wrist - a wonderful way to accessorise your wedding dress.

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Collate as many images as possible of your preferred floral style and consider looser styles for rustic weddings, incorporating raffia ties, or tighter styles incorporating Swarovski crystals and pearls for more formal styles.

To style your venue, consider flowers for your tables, with taller arrangements to prevent guests having to ‘look round’ your centrepieces, and don’t forget buttonholes for the groomsmen to tie in with the rest of your floral scheme.

depending on how much you’re looking to invest in your wedding flowers, we recommend setting aside a large chunk of your budget if you want to make your wedding stand out. In all cases, look for a local florist and take advantage of their flair and expertise. n

Floral Ideas... 1. It doesn’t just have to be flowers; add pinecones and succulents to create texture and contrast. Arrangement by Great British Flowers for Dan & Liz. 2. The all natural look has taken the wedding world by storm in the past year. To create this look, use a variety of different green tones and a loosely-fitted, ‘overflowing’ style as pictured. 3. These bouquets follow a loose-fitted style and create a vintage look by using dahlias and hydrangeas. Photo: The Garden Gate Flower Company. 4. Roses are timeless and are always in trend. 5. Looking for something different? Use bright colours that match your bridesmaids. Ideal for summer. Photo: Great British Flowers. 6. Work closely with your florist to see how you can incorporate your wedding flowers into your day in different ways. Visit www.ukbride.co.uk for florists.

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PLAN YOUR WEDDING PROPERLY WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM OUR 780,000 MEMBERS

NOT JUST FOR WEDDINGS... From our Rutland base, Funky Tents can help clients visualise and create wonderful and bespoke marquee spaces for all occasions.

We are the Number One wedding website in the UK -

Win a Â£25,000 dream wedding Browse through 14,000 wedding dresses Free wedding planning tools like our table planner Claim a free engagement photoshoot Win monthly wedding related prizes Talk to like-minded brides in your area for support

Join now for free at www.ukbride.co.uk

0808 169 1690 www.funky-tents.co.uk

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To advertise your wedding business to 43% of brides-to-be in your area, call us on 0800 112 3 112.

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PInk TICklEd

IF YOU’VE A SUMMER WEDDING, GARDEN PARTY OR OTHER OCCASION TO LOOK FORWARD TO THIS YEAR, CONSIDER JOHN CHARLES’ 2019 OCCASIONWEAR Words: Mandy Bray.

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Inspired by Old Hollywood, this stretch jacquard dress is defined by its exquisite shape, which is classically feminine and fitted. Shown in Blush. Available in Champagne, Powder Blue, ÂŁ475.

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A dress to be remembered. Featuring a low cowl back in crepe over a beaded illusion detail, the detailing is divine. Beautifully beaded leaf shapes adorn the shoulders, before flowing into the fitted shape. A perfect statement. Shown in Blush. Available in Ivory and Lavender, ÂŁ812.

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Contemporary flair and classic taste meet in this romantic design. With a glamorous asymmetric neckline and cap sleeve feature, this dress benefits from beaded illusion sleeves. Shown in Blush, ÂŁ805.

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Crafted in chic crepe, this John Charles dress features flattering half sleeves and a belt waist detail. The bodice is adorned with tonal diamond beading, further embellished with beautiful pearl details. Understated and timeless, this is a dress made to be adored. Shown in Blush. Available in Ivory, Lavender, Silver, Taupe, ÂŁ784.

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This simply sensational divine crepe style benefits from artfully pleated waist detailing and beaded belt to shape the figure. Contrasting the strikingly simple form is the sumptuous lace decorating the illusion neckline and half sleeves. Available with coordinated crop jacket. Shown in Blush. Available in Ivory, Lavender, Silver, Taupe, ÂŁ920.

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Left: This stretch jacquard dress features a softly textured floral pattern in a flatteringly feminine shape. The expertly constructed wrap bodice with pleat detailing contours the figure while maintaining comfort. The illusion tulle above the V-neckline is adorned with intricate ombré beading for a look that is timelessly glamorous, £799. Right: This divine stretch jacquard dress creates an enviable silhouette. Contouring the curves of the body to flaunt and flatter your shape, the fishtail skirt flares to balance the narrowest part of your figure. Shown in Antique. Available in Sea Mist & Silver, £799. For more information on our featured outfits, and to find a Rutland or Stamford stockist, see www.johncharles.co.uk.

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BEAUTY

TRuE BluE

THIS MONTH WE’VE LUXURY COSMETICS WITH A SLIGHTLY BLUE HUE DESIGNED TO MOISTURISE, CONCEAL AND PROTECT YOUR SKIN ALL THROUGH SPRING...

1. Gucci perfume is heaven scent...

Gucci’s Song for the Rose perfume is heaven scent for mid-spring, with Bulgarian rose, sweet musk and wood notes. As the scent’s name suggests its notes are an expression of absolute femininity. Rose is presented in the fragrance as the eternal queen, with the alchemy of regeneration and rose blended to create an olfactive duality and melody or floral and musk. It’s also suitable for men to wear! £240/100ml.

3. dewy Skin Primer

Cover FX’s rich primer nourishes and hydrates skin and imparts an instant dewy finish. Providing ultra-hydration with anti-ageing properties, this is a cruelty-free paraben-free product ideal for normal to dry skin types. £30/30ml.

4. lip Service

La Mer’s lip balm is a more luxurious prospect than regular lip balms, but worth the investment with a refreshing mint taste, moisturisers and sea kelp to ensure your lips are soft and moisturised against spring winds and chilly temperatures. £50/9g.

5. For Beautiful Eyes Estée Lauder’s targeted system of high-performance formulas customised to your needs, including a full-size new Advanced night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex to help the entire eye area look brighter and visibly revived. £49/set.

2. luxuRy EyE ColouR

Chantecaille’s luminescent Eye Shade shown here in Mare provides a uniquely sheer, gel-powder shade which washes the eye with a gentle, pearlescent shimmer. Created by industry expert Sylvie Chantecaille, it combines refreshing botanical extracts with innovative ingredients to harness the power of both science and nature. Cruelty free, no parabens, phthalates or scent. £42/2g.

6. Luxurious as Caviar

La Prarie is a luxurious cult skincare brand, and its Skin Caviar Concealer Foundation is designed to provide instant, natural-looking perfection floats onto your face SPF15 and a luxurious cream emulsion that provides full natural-looking coverage while the concealer helps to camouflage under-eye darkness and deeper flaws. Firming with legendary caviar extracts. A brilliant fusion of science and cosmetic artistry available in four different tones. £170/30ml.

n All our beauty products are available from local high quality independent stockists unless otherwise stated, prices are RRP. Visit each makeup brand’s website for more information on local stockists. 137

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PRIVATE HEALTHCARE WITH AVICENNA

DR HANY ELMADBOUH, SENIOR CONSULTANT, AT AVICENNA CLINIC EXPLAINS A STRESS FRACTURE

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, or severe bruising within a bone.

Most stress fractures are caused by overuse and repetitive activity, such as repeatedly jumping up and down or running long distances. They occur over time when repetitive forces result in microscopic damage to the bone. The repetitive force that causes a stress fracture is not great enough to cause an acute fracture. Bone is in a constant state of turnover â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a process called remodeling. New bone develops and replaces older bone. During remodeling, bone tissue is destroyed (resorption), then rebuilt. Bones subjected to unaccustomed force without enough time for recovery resorb cells faster than body can replace them, which makes the bone weakens and becomes vulnerable to stress fractures.

The most common cause of stress fractures is a sudden increase in physical activity either in duration or intensity such as trying a new exercise, suddenly increasing the intensity of workouts, or changing the workout surface (jogging on a treadmill vs. jogging outdoors).

Conditions that decrease bone strength and density, such as osteoporosis, and certain long-term medications can make it more likely to experience a stress fracture-even when performing normal everyday activities. Poor conditioning; meaning doing too much too soon is also a common cause of stress fracture. 140

The most common locations of stress fractures are the second and third metatarsals of the foot. Stress fractures are also common in the long bones of the lower leg.

The most common symptom of a stress fracture is pain. The pain usually develops gradually and worsens during activity and diminishes during rest. There may be a swelling and usually tenderness on applying gentle pressure directly to the site of the fracture. On X-rays, the fracture may not be visible until several weeks later when it has actually started to heal. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) usually can visualise stress fractures within the first week of injury, and can visualise lower-grade stress injuries (stress reactions) before x-ray shows changes. A MRI is preferred in many cases because there is no radiation exposure and it is better at diagnosing different types of bone and/or soft tissue abnormalities. If a stress fracture is not properly treated, the fracture can get worse and eventually, it can become a complete break.

When stress fracture is suspected a RICE protocol is advised. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In addition, anti-inflammatory tablets such as ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and allow the fracture to heal. Treatment will vary depending on the location of the stress

fracture and its severity. The majority of stress fractures are treated non-surgically. It typically takes from 6 to 8 weeks for a stress fracture to heal. During that time, switching to activities that place less stress on the bones is advised. Swimming and cycling are good alternative activities. Some fractures such those of the fifth metatarsal bone (on the outer side of the foot) take longer to heal and a cast to keep the bones in a fixed position and to remove the stress on the involved leg may be needed. Use of crutches to keep weight off foot or leg until the bone heals may be used. Some stress fractures require surgery to heal properly especially those that occur in areas with a poor blood supply. Surgery also might be an option to facilitate healing for elite athletes who desire a more rapid return to sport or workers whose work involves the stress fracture site. The surgery is called internal fixation. Pins, screws, and/or plates can be used to hold the bones together during the healing process. To help to prevent stress fractures, start new sports activities slowly and gradually increase the time, speed, and distance and stop the activity that is causing pain. n To book a consultation or for more information on treating your pain and explore the other available services to help you, contact Avicenna Clinic on 0330 2020597 or see avicennaclinic.com. Or visit North Street, Peterborough PE1 2RA.

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Miscellany

Introducing Miscellany. This new feature in Pride includes snippets of information about the county you may not have known, monthly features and interesting locals... Enjoy! BLuE pLAquE

Nelson Ethelred Dawson

Arts & Crafts artist, (1859 – 1941): This month marks the first anniversary of one of Stamford’s lesser-known sons being celebrated with a blue plaque by the town’s Civic Society. Nelson Dawson was born in Stamford, the son of Edwin and Emma Annie Dawson (née Harris). Educated at Stamford Grammar School he studied architecture on Scotgate with Joseph Corby who designed St Martin’s Burghley Estate office. Latterly, he undertook a lot of metalwork and soon co-founded the Artificer’s Guild, describing himself as a metal-worker, enameller and designer. Dawson was prominent in the emerging Arts & Crafts movement whose works include the foundation stone of the V&A Museum and casket presented to Woodrow Wilson at the 1919 Versailles peace Conference, and the silver salver in Stamford’s town regalia. n

BOOk Of tHE MOntH: Secret rutland Historian and fan of criminology and folklore, Daniel Codd promises to go ‘beyond the façade of the familiar’ to discover a few of the secrets of Rutland... Secret Rutland goes behind the façades of the familiar to discover the less-well known parts of the county’s long and illustrious past. Join Daniel J. Codd on a journey through the hidden secrets of Rutland, its deserted settlements, history, folklore, antiquities and street names with interesting stories to be told. Daniel is a lifelong student of history, criminology and

folklore, believing that truth (even possibility) is often way more intriguing than fiction! Daniel’s work follows similar books about Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and Northamptonshire. It’s well worth a look; knowledgeable, readable, light and entertaining.

n Paperback, 96 pages, 100 illustrations, colour throughout, £14.99.

ApriL BriEfing: Folklore, fools & fun...

Back in 2005, The Rutland Mercury fooled the county by claiming seismic activity was caused by a volcano under the county. Hilarious... but false. Bonus points, though, for giving the story the byline ‘Lori Polaf’ - only easily spotted by those who enjoy anagrams. In fact, you’ve that foul-mouthed 14th century yarn-spinner Chaucer to thank for April Fools. In the writer’s Canterbury Tale, The Nun’s Priest’s Tale’s vain cock Chanticleer is tricked by a fox on Syn March bigan thritty dayes and two. Readers apparently understood this line to mean 32nd March (i.e. April 1st) and a silly tradition of tall tales was thus born. n

‘Little April Showers’ are rarer than October’s monsoons

April is far from the wettest month according to rainfall averages in Rutland & Stamford January: 45mm, 16 days of rain, three days of snow. February: 32mm, 14 days of rain, four days of snow. March: 43mm, 15 days of rain, three days of snow. April: 50mm, 14 days of rain, two days of snow. May: 51mm, 13 days of rain, zero days of snow. June: 54mm, 14 days of rain, zero days of snow.

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July: 60mm, 14 days of rain, zero days of snow. Aug: 50mm, 13 days of rain, zero days of snow. Sep: 55mm, 14 days of rain, zero days of snow. Oct: 64mm, 16 days of rain, zero days of snow. Nov: 42mm, 16 days of rain, one day of snow. Dec: 54mm, 11 days of rain, two days of snow. n

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MISCELLANY: WASTE SOME TIME in SEASOn, in BLOOM, in tHE gArdEn... In Season: April brings with it a wealth of local produce. Our favourite is asparagus, particular from Rutland Water Farm Park. New potatoes are a treat too, and if you’re out foraging (with care) look for wild rocket, wild nettles and sorrel.

Cut daffodils from the stalk for a cheerful kitchen table display, and if you’ve indoor forced bulbs, they can be retained for planting again in autumn. In The Garden: Deadhead violas and pansies, buy fuchsias from gardens centres (we recommend Gates at Cold Overton) and if you’ve a sunny patch, of bare ground, plant a wildflower meadow.

In Bloom: April brings a wealth of bulbs with the last of the daffodils as well as hyacinths, and tulips.

quick BitES: Pea & Ham Soup

A really simple soup for spring! you should always have a good quality stock in your larder, preferably homemade after a roast. vegetable or chicken should be your go-to base for this delicious spring soup. Heat a knob of butter then add a chopped onion and a medium potato diced up. Pour over about a litre of stock. Add a 500g of peas - about half the volume of pea to stock - and remember that whilst frozen peas will suffice, those you pick and pod from your own garden will always be best. Add about 300g pancetta or roast ham and enjoy with sourdough bread! David Bukowicki, Barnsdale Lodge, 01572 724678.

kEEping cHickEnS: A Beginner’s guide What could be better than collecting fresh eggs from your own flock each morning? It’s one of the simple pleasure in life, says the area’s poultry guru Andy Payne...

It’s easy and fun to keep chickens, says the area’s Andy Payne. He began keeping his own flock at the age of 12 and is now responsible for looking after 25,000 egg layers producing 150,000 eggs a year! Based in Ketton, equidistant between Uppingham and Stamford, Andy is all about welfare rather than volume despite the size of his flock - also farming arable crops and beef cattle. Andy loves introducing novice poultry keepers to the joy of keeping chickens, and sells

quote of the Month

Eggs-traordinary EAStEr EggS

everything you need to get started, from the chickens themselves - Rutland Rhode Island, Rutland Light Sussex and Rutland Blues at £17/each; 16 weeks old and vaccinated.

n Egg-stravaganza: Visit the egg-cellent Rutland Farm Park for easter fun, egg hunting and to see real life chicks hatching too! A terrific family day out! 01572 722122, LE15 6JD www.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk

n Osprey Eggs: Females begin to lay their eggs in April. The eggs are blotched reddish-brown about the same size as a large hens’ egg. See the ospreys return to at Rutland’s Lyndon Nature Reserve and see www.ospreys.org.uk.

He also provides practical, well-built and easy to clean houses for three to 50 birds, like the Lyndon, a des res for up to six large fowl chickens. Andy can advise on feeding, welfare, and accessories to make sure your chickens remain healthy and happy! For more information call 07971 997334; www.rutlandpoultry.co.uk.

we should taste every fruit of every tree in the garden at least once. it is an insult to creation not to experience it fully. temperance is wickedness... Stephen Fry, expelled from Uppingham School in 1972 for ‘a variety of misdemeanours.’

n Chocolate Eggs: If, you prefer your eggs made of cocoa, Stamford’s Hotel Chocolat’s Ostrich Egg has a whopping 1kg chocolate and 27 chocolates! £80, High Street, Stamford, 01780 762063

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Give the Gift of Stamford & Rutland

It’s easy to subscribe to the area’s Finest Magazines, either to enjoy yourself, or to be delivered to a friend or loved one as a Gift Subscription throughout 2019. Six months for £18, 12 months for £36, both delivered by Royal Mail.

Call 01529 469977 and pay by credit or debit card, or subscribe online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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E MA GA Z I N

tHE County’s Lord LIEutEnAnCy • nEvILL HoLt At HAMbLEton HALL

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dEPuTy lIEuTEnAnTS The county’s lord lieutenant dr Sarah Furness recently hosted a drinks and canapé reception at oakham Castle to honour her new deputy lieutenants’ appointments...

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to feature your event call 01529 469977 to speak to our events desk, or email editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

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nEvIll HolT oPERA

Hambleton Hall last month hosted An Evening with nevill Holt opera. A champagne and canapĂŠ reception included a performance of arias by the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s young talent...

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MOTORS

TIGER FEAT

Named after the Indonesian name for tigers, there’s a new Porsche Macan, heavily updated with more bite for keen drivers. A compact SUV ideal for negotiating town, it also promises performance and a really engaging drive...

It’s safe to say that Porsche’s Macan - named after the Indonesian word for ‘tiger’ - has earned its stripes. Its larger brother the Cayenne quickly silenced critics who scoffed at the idea of an SUV with a Porsche badge when it was launched in 2003. The firm quite correctly foresaw the boom in SUV sales with Cayenne and followed it up with a smaller sibling - the Macan - in 2014.

Since then the market has become considerably more crowded and with a swollen model range from Land Rover, Macan now has to fend off the Range Rover Evoque, Velar and Discovery Sport as well as models like Audi’s Q5; BMW’s X3, X4 and X5, the Mercedes GLC, Jaguar F-Pace, Lexus RX, Maserati Levante... Long story short; Porche’s second generation Macan has a lot riding on its high haunches to hold its own in a competitive sector. Happily, it’s highly likely that it’ll be up to the challenge. The outgoing Macan sold over 100,000 cars worldwide during its life - four times the number of 911s which roared out of the showroom. Another example of Porsche keeping its beady eye on the motoring zeitgeist is its removal of all diesel engines from its lineup. Your new entry level Macan will come with a 2.0 four-cylinder petrol engine. >> 152

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>> The Macan’s has 245PS of power. There’s plenty of power with a track or autobahn top speed of 139mph and overtaking oomph in the form of a 6.7 second 0-60mph sprint.

That puts it roughly on a par with a larger and more expensive v6 Range Rover Sport. The engine is a fettled version of the unit you’ll find in a volkswagen Golf GTi or Audi TT and it’s a unit that’s proven to offer performance when you need it, but enough restraint for the school run and around-town errands - a great compromise between powerful and practical.

Economy is on a par with other petrol engines of its size, so you can expect 35mpg - not as frugal as a diesel but less agricultural sounding and not bad for a car that weights in at 1,800kg. 154

The newly updated Macan still offers a ‘best in class’ driving experience with a beautiful chassis and that Porsche badge too... Those seeking more grunt can opt for the Macan S with its 3.0 v6 engine. It reaches 60mph in 5.3 seconds, reaches 157mph and has 354PS of power. The premium for the S model is only a couple of thousands pounds, and whilst we don’t think the extra power is necessary, the extra styling it brings and likely better resale value probably makes this the sweeter model.

Whilst Macan and Macan S weigh in at £46,344 and £48,750 respectively, you’ll need to remember that with all cars these days, you’ll only have to glance at the options

list to add another £10,000 to the price, and this being a Porsche you’ll doubtless like to take advantage of the available options. leather seats, park assist, reversing camera, adaptive cruise and heated seats are all extra.

Still the Macan offers a ‘best in class’ driving experience, a beautiful chassis, a premium badge and, at 4.6m long, it’s shorter than a Mondeo and so easier to park, with a higher ride. It might wear a sporty badge but this Porsche is more practical than you’d expect. Perhaps that make this tiger a little more civilised than its sharp teeth would suggest! n

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Three of the Best: School-run friendly, town-taming SUVs...

Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic SE D180 £55,495: The R-Dynamic Range Rover Velar features sportier styling, but even the entry level D180 model will provide plenty of performance. There’s a decent amount of boot space and five good-sized seats in this thoroughly modern Range Rover, even if it sits below the Range Rover Sport in the company’s portfolio. In SE trim you gain a powered tailgate, heated leather seats, navigation and park pack. 0-60mph 8.5 secs, 36.6mpg... oh, and it’s a class leader off-road too! n

Maserati Levante 3.0 V6 £59,300: An unusual badge and worthy of consideration for those seeking to be a little different from the crowd. Standard equipment isn’t as generous as the Velar and you’re unlikely to take the Levante off road, but it’s an exotic option and is undoubtedly impressive in terms of its styling. There are also plenty of options to customise your interior with alcantara headlining, red leather seats and a chrome interior package. 0-60mph in 6.0 secs, 36mpg. n

PORSCHE MACAN Price: £46,344. Motor/Drivetrain: 2.0 v4. Performance: 0-60mph 6.5 secs 139 mph top speed. Economy: 34.9mph, 185g Co2. Equipment: Electrically adjustable alcantara seats, navigation, Apple Carplay, dAB radio.. Seven speed automatic gearbox, four wheel drive, traction control. n

Jaguar F-Pace S, 30D £54,030: The F-Page has been terrifically well-received by the motoring world and since its launch, the car has been joined by a smaller E-Pace and electric I-Pace. In this company, a 3.0V6 diesel with twin turbocharging provides plenty of pace, whilst all wheel drive and an automatic gearbox are standard. S spec provides electric leather seats, keyless entry and a rear camera. 0-60mpg 6.2 seconds, 36.6mpg. n

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30 years old in 2019

LAND ROVER’S ‘ANNIVERSARY EDITION’ CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF DISCOVERY...

LAND ROVER land Rover will this season mark the 30th anniversary of discovery with a limited-edition exclusively for uk customers. Based on the discovery Sd6 SE, the ‘Anniversary Edition’ features 22” wheels, fixed panoramic glass roof, privacy glass, a 380W Meridian sound system and a choice of metallic paint as standard. A total of 400 Anniversary Editions will

be available in Santorini Black, Corris Grey loire Blue or Indus Silver. Since its launch in 1989, discovery has become synonymous with adventure. The car has been put to work in the most extreme of global locations and proving time and time again that capability does not come at the sacrifice of comfort. Anniversary Edition discovery is priced at £59,995. n

uk Car of the year 2019 FIRST EVER ELECTRIC CAR WIN SEES KIA E-NIRO TAKE TITLE

MOTORS

A record year for Rolls Royce with best ever sales figures...

ROLLS ROYCE Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has achieved the highest annual sales in the marque’s 115-year history, with 4,107 cars delivered to customers in over 50 countries around the world in 2018. Its most popular model remains its flagship Phantom limo, but there are already huge orders and a long waiting list for its most recent addition, the Cullinan 4x4, on sale for £250,000 before would-be owners begin the ‘anything you wish’ process of customising their vehicles. n

KIA What Car? Magazine’s Car of the year is the uk’s ‘official’ car of the year title and for the first time ever it has been awarded to an electric car. kia has seemingly come from nowhere to suddenly selling over 200,000 vehicles uk-wide. uniquely its 2019 Car of the year model is electric, the e-niro with its 282-mile range, zero-emissions, seven year warranty, and £32,000 asking price. The first time a korean manufacturer has won the title, kia came away with a total of five titles at the awards, including City Car of the year, Electric Car of the year and Best Family Car. n

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

VEHICLE COLOURS

2018’S MOST POPULAR CAR COLOURS REVEALED... last year 21% of uk cars (495,127 in total) were ordered in grey, knocking black off the top spot in a list of the uk’s most popular car colours. Black was the next most common colour (20.2% market share) followed by white (18.3%) then blue (16.1%) and red (10%). The least popular colours were bronze and beige with just 0.4% market share. The best-selling uk cars last year were the Ford Fiesta, volkswagen Golf and vauxhall Corsa, all most commonly ordered in grey. In 2017 black was the most common colour whilst the most popular colour from 2013-2016 was white. From 20092012 black was the most common colour. It’s common these days for car manufacturers to charge extra for ‘premium’ shades of white rather than offering white as a no-cost option, which may account for the decline in popularity of white cars. other losers in the world of car colours were yellow, which saw a 17% decline in popularity, katie Price’s garish pink shade which fell to just 1,300 registrations and mauve, the popularity of which declined by 32%. The information was provided by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders which represents the uk car industry, surveying a total of 2,367,147 vehicle registrations, down by 6.8% in 2017. n

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MOTORS

THE BEST oF

BRuTISH

Still handmade, still built in crewe and still one of the most desirable gts in the world. You can say ciao to your gauche italian hypercars. keep your impeccably engineered Mercedes AMgs and Audis and BMWs. following Brexit weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re celebrating a great British brand and enjoying sporting luxury in a comfortable, luxurious and brutishly quick Bentley... Words: Rob Davis.

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2019 is a very special year for Bentley. at’s because the crewe based car maker celebrates 100 years. to mark the milestone the company will be creating special centenary editions of its limos and its gt, the continental. it will also oﬃcially unveil this, the all new convertible version of the continental gt, available to order now with ﬁrst deliveries pencilled in for early summer. e coupé version of the gt is already sublime. Assuming you don’t specify silly exterior colours, wild-looking wheels and garish hide colours, it’s more subtle, less shouty and somehow more mature than Mercedes’s AMg models, or M-Series BMWs. But this! e convertible. it’s... it’s, well it’s just beautiful. Subtle as though the redesign of the gt was, it has really done wonders for the car which is, in our opinion, now one of the best looking motors on the road.

With an automatic gearbox, four wheel drive and statesmanlike manners, courtesy of rollcontrol and air suspension, it’s a brute when you want, and a gent when you don’t. regrettably, very few of the features and specs of the gt matter, because the car - and in particular the convertible variant - will be chosen solely on the basis of its looks. it’s a shame, because to think of the gt convertible as just a pretty car is to underestimate its performance, quality, relative value in its class and its sublime manners. is is not a sports car and not a true driver’s car - porsche fulﬁls that remit better. rather this is a luxury car. if i had a blank cheque and a remit to purchase the uk’s best gt, i’d choose the Bentley continental and especially the convertible version every single time. n

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL

GT CONVERTIBLE

Price: £175,000 (on sale now, with ﬁrst deliveries due summer). Drivetrain: 6.0 W12 48v twin turbo engine, with four wheel drive and eight speed automatic gearbox. Performance: 0-60mph 3.8secs, max speed 207mph. Economy: 22.8mpg (combined). Equipment: Heated electric leather seats, electric hood, sat nav, parking camera. n

e convertible only builds on that visual appeal and with huge scope for customisation, you can create exactly the look you’re seeking for your £175,000. e Bentley’s beauty isn’t simply skin deep, either. its 6.0W12 engine is overkill, but it’s handmade and delivers its power effortlessly so you never have to work it hard. e new model brought about substantial upgrades to the cabin, too, with new technology like adaptive cruise, around view camera and powered boot lid, as well as the odd aesthetic flourish like its sat-nav screen which rotates electrically to reveal three old-school analogue dials or its lovely two-tone wood veneers. And being a Bentley, controls finished in real aluminium have metal knurling solidity and impeccable fit and finish.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

Stamford students oxbridge-bound

OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE ARE BOTH BECKONING FOR STAMFORD’S SMARTEST STAMFORD Three students at the Stamford Endowed Schools have received offers from oxford and Cambridge universities. Head Girl Holly Farrow, of Stamford High School, aims to read Engineering at Emmanuel College, Cambridge. From Stamford School, Charlie kidd has received an offer to study Maths at Somerville College, oxford, and Jonathan Mason has been offered a place to read Chemistry at Jesus College, Cambridge. Will Phelan, Principal of the Stamford Endowed Schools, said: “our students have worked tirelessly to prepare for their oxbridge entrance examinations, and it is testament to their hard work and dedication that they have been rewarded with these offers. They should be immensely proud of their achievements.”

Pictured (Left to right): Holly Farrow, Charlie Kidd, Jonathan Mason and Principal, Will Phelan.

“These will be the first of many offers which our Stamfordians will be receiving at a wide variety of universities and courses,” “our focus at the Stamford

Trade stands now available for 2019’s Rutland Show...

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR THE AREA’S SUCCESSFUL COUNTRY SHOW...

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Endowed Schools is on preparing young people for the jobs and priorities of the future, and I am delighted that these offers from oxford and Cambridge reflect the passion

and enthusiasm that our pupils develop for pursuing these vital skills at the highest level. My congratulations to them.” n For more information see www.ses.lincs.sch.uk.

OAKHAM Summer may seem a way off but it’ll be here before you know it, and with it will come the 2019 Rutland Show. Trade stands for this year’s event are now open and organisers are encouraging early booking thanks to a record-breaking show last year. “The 2018 Rutland Show enjoyed another successful year with perfect weather ensuring even more visitors than ever before,” says Show & Events Secretary liz Wackett. “Right now we’re planning the 2019 show, so if you’d like to be part of this exciting event, then you can apply for a

trade, craft or community stand right now.” “once again, we are offering Community Stands to local clubs, societies or associations in the dedicated Community Area. Meanwhile if you’re an artisan food or drink producer, we’ve a dedicated area we call The larder, and we’ll be offering craft stands for small scale artisan makers and designers in a dedicated area.” “We were over-subscribed last year, so it’s really important to booking as early as possible.” n The show takes place on Sunday 2nd June 2019. See www.rutlandcountyshow.com.

Pupils in trades

DRIVE NEEDED TOWARDS PRACTICAL SKILLS

new guide to Stamford and South kesteven now available...

STAMFORD Almost 500 students from local secondary and primary schools recently tried their hands at a range of construction skills during a have-a-go event designed to inspire the tradesmen and women of the future. new College Stamford teamed up with a wealth of local and regional employers from the construction industry, to offer 320 primary school and 170 secondary school

students the opportunity to explore a variety of technical, professional and trade career opportunities available within the construction industry. Gary McPartland, of new College Stamford, said: “over the next five years the construction industry will need to recruit over 220,000 additional people to meet the skills challenge and sustain the future economy.” n See www.stamford.ac.uk.

laxton Junior School open day

LAXTON JUNIOR SCHOOL IS AN INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL WITH 260 CHILDREN...

£1,500,000 Saved

STAMFORD A new guide to promote Stamford and South kesteven has been launched, with 64 pages designed to showcase the 365 square mile region and its tourism potential. Tourism is now worth over £178m to the area, with 3,400,000 visitors annually securing 2,500 jobs in the area. n

RUTLAND COUNTY COUNCIL has published its draft budget, aimed at saving £1.5m each year without cutting services. Almost half of Rutland’s £36.4million budget for 2019/20 will be used to pay for adults and children’s social care with £2.48m for waste and recycling and £1.01m for maintaining roads. n

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OUNDLE Part of the Corporation of oundle School, laxton Junior School is an independent day school which provides an education of the very highest class to children between the ages of 4 and 11. open mornings are an ideal way to find out more about the School, meet the teachers and pupils and ask any questions you may have. The next open Morning is Monday 8th May (Bank Holiday Monday), but a personal tour with the Head is also available. n To find out more, please contact the Registrar, Ms Lesley Taylor, by telephone on 01832 277159 or by email at lat@laxtonjunior.org.uk.

BUSINESS

NEWS In Brief

LEICESTERSHIRE

LEICESTER RANKED AMONG TOP 25 UK UNIVERSITIES TARGETED BY LEADING EMPLOYERS The uk’s 100 best-known graduate employers are targeting students from the university of leicester according to a report on the graduate job market. The university of leicester is ranked in the top 25 universities by the Times Top 100 Graduate Employers. In an evercompetitive graduate recruitment market, more emphasis is placed on return on investment and the universities in the top 25 offer the best opportunity to do that. vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Boyle said: “We are delighted that the uk’s leading graduate employers are continuing to recruit from the university of leicester.” “This ranking is a testament to the quality of our students and our award-winning approach to developing skills that has led to an employability rate of over 94% for our students. n See www.le.ac.uk.

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