Rutland Pride November 2020

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PRIDE RUTLAND

RUTLAND’S FINEST MAGAZINE

£4.50

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.

Robert Laurence Binyon (1869-1943)

FREE ONLINE

WELCOME

H

istory isn’t about the past. It’s about the future. Only by looking back with pride or shame, with a sense of triumph, or a resolution not to repeat past mistakes, do we use the lessons of the past to craft the future.

That’s why, even in 2020, when it’s unlikely we’ll be able to gather in the usual fashion to commemorate Remembrance Sunday, we must find a way to remember those who fought in two World Wars for the freedom that we have today.

Many this summer and autumn have grumbled about the necessity of adhering to rules pertaining to masks, social distancing and so on.

And yet if those minor curtailments to our freedom are bothersome, imagine the compromises to liberty we’d have to endure if those who died for the freedom that - in ordinary circumstances - we have, and take for granted, had not been as successful. Today, our freedom would be compromised beyond anything that 2020 has thrown at us.

This month we’re telling the stories of the heroes of Burghley House who played their part or gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy today.

In their memory, wear those masks, keep your distance, and have faith that soon we’ll be free again to enjoy the liberty that those same heroes fought for… and on Remembrance Sunday, remember them.

Best wishes for a wonderful month,

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk 3

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96 CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS 06

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NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford including news of the possible return of Rob Persani to the airways.

HOMES & GARDENS 60

WELCOME HOME A beautifully presented Barrowden farmhouse.

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STRING THEORY A new business for Stamford as Libby Summers opens her specialist violin-making studio.

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HOMES & INTERIORS This month we’ve soft furnishings, kitchens and cutting-edge architecture, too.

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MURDER ON HIS MIND

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NATURE Animals which will enjoy hibernating in your garden this month.

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UPPINGHAM FATSTOCK A look at the history of the Uppingham event with its Chairman, Charlie Mason.

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RECIPES & WINE From Christmas pudding to local tipples, enjoy food and drink at home.

HIGHLIGHTS

Foul deeds afoot as Rutland crime writer Adam Croft explains why he set his new novel in the county.

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BURGHLEY HEROES Stories of heroism from Burghley House.

LADIES & GENTLEMEN 109 FASHION The latest winter ranges from Oakham’s Land’s End.

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COSMETICS Look and feel great this autumn and winter.

FOOD & DRINK

AND FINALLY...

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120 MOTORS Mercedes Benz’s S-Class

DINING OUT Enjoying the hospitality of Barnsdale Lodge.

limo and Range Rover’s new Evoque.

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THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

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Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county. Our circulation is to homes in the top three council tax bands, which are predominantly worth over ÂŁ300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content.

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.

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

Our titles also have more social media fans than any other local magazine. In addition we have over 30,000 online readers each month who view the magazine free of charge, online, on their tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website, our app, and via the Readly and Issuu platforms.

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

Amazing new app out now: You can read our magazines on any device anywhere.

Read Pride Magazine free online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk or by downloading our free iOS and Android App. 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 Daubney.

Sales Supervisor: Cydney Dyson.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

Illustrator: Jocelyn Lawman.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Web Developer: Joe Proctor.

Office Managers: Sue Bannister.

Sales Executives: Cassy Ayton, Grace Mumford and Sami Millard.

Pride Magazines, Boston Enterprise Centre, Enterprise Way, Boston, Lincs PE21 7TW

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978 www.pridemagazines.co.uk | enquiries@pridemagazines.co.uk

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NEWS & EVENTS

A return to the radio for Rob?

FORMER DJ APPOINTED PROJECT MANAGER FOR FEASIBILITY STUDY INTO STATION RUTLAND Former Rutland Radio presenter Rob Persani has been appointed to lead a new project looking at whether it is feasible to establish a community radio station for Rutland.

Rutland County Council confirmed last month that it would be launching the new project following a rebranding of the county’s existing local radio station, which includes a move towards more nationally-focused content.

Rob has spent more than two decades working in the radio industry and will oversee the project to establish if a community radio station could be set up and sustained locally.

“It’s already evident that there’s lots of support for a radio station that focuses solely on the local community.”

“I’m proud to have helped do that here in Rutland over the past 21 years or so.”

“As the county’s existing radio station heads in a new direction, I’m excited to get underway with this project and find out what is possible.”

Award for Wittering ATC AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS AT WITTERING RECEIVE AWARD FOR PROFESSIONALISM....

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“A great many people feel very strongly about the important role that local radio can have in representing communities,” says Council

Leader Oliver Hemsley.

“We’re fortunate to be able to draw on Rob’s experience – not just of the radio world but also Rutland as a county.” n

STAMFORD Air Traffic Controllers at Royal Air Force Wittering in Cambridgeshire have received a special award for their outstanding levels of aviation support and professionalism.

With around 45,000 individual take-offs and landings every year, RAF Wittering is one of the busiest flying stations in the Ministry of Defence. In addition to keeping the airspace safe for elementary flying training, the Air Traffic Control Team regularly manages activity with heavy transport aircraft, jets and helicopters.

Unusually, the Air Traffic Control team is a combined military and civilian organisation. The visual control room, with its view of the airfield, is manned by personnel from Babcock International.

The radar room downstairs, which sees aircraft beyond the airfield, is manned exclusively by Royal Air Force controllers.

Flight Sergeant Katie Mason said: “Our aim is to provide a safe operating environment, and it’s a privilege to be recognised for our cohesive working practices.” n

RUTLAND Rutland Foodbank has been awarded a £500 grant to help them continue providing support throughout the pandemic. The charity was nominated by local MP Alicia Kearns for Western Power’s ‘In This Together’ community matters fund.

Rutland Foodbank will use the cash donation to continue providing essential food items for families in crisis.

Heather Armstrong, from Rutland Foodbank said: “We’d like to say thank you

very much to WPD. During the crisis it has been harder for our generous donors to find certain items to donate.”

Rutland and Melton MP, Alicia Kearns, said: “Rutland Foodbank has continued to be a pillar of support to Melton’s community throughout the pandemic and I am so very grateful to them for their hard work – which really does change lives. I’m pleased this funding will assist them in carrying out their phenomenal work.” n

Sigma Sports open in Oakham SIGMA SPORTS HAS OPENED ITS NEW 4,000SQ FT RETAIL SPACE ON SOUTH STREET IN OAKHAM

SOUTH LUFFENHAM Losing her locks to raise lots, Rutland’s Vicky Laing recently braved the shave to raise over £4,000 for three local charities. 20 years ago Vicky suffered a serious riding accident and was taken to hospital by the Derbyshire, Leics & Rutland Air Ambulance with a broken back and crushed pelvis. Via a sponsored head shave and her Just Giving page Vicky has rased £2,725 for our two local air ambulance services and a further £1,265 for the Matt Hampson Foundation. n

OAKHAM Sigma Sports has opened its new Oakham store on the town’s South Street from which it will stock premium cycling, MTB, triathlon and running gear as well as providing a space for local cycling, running and triathlon communities, becoming a hub for the active outdoor community in the area.

Ian Whittingham says: “We are very excited to bring our retail offering to Oakham.

The expansion will allow us to engage with the cycling community around Leicestershire and beyond. n For more information see www.sigmasports.com.

NEWS

£100,000

ALICIA SECURES £500 GRANT FOR CHARITY

LOCAL

STAMFORD Stamford Arts Centre is to benefit from £100,000 of funding to create a new digital access point to the building which will include a new coffee shop, box office and tourist information point. The plans will include new computers for council customers to provide an in-town location for council users to pay bills, gain access to council services and so on. n

Food Bank Grant

Vicky braves the shave to raise cash for care in the air...

In Brief OAKHAM x

NIGHT RUN SHINES A LIGHT ON FITNESS Christmas is just around the corner and that’s time when as all indulge a little... so why not go into the festive season fit and healthy? Kick start your fitness regime with a Friday NightRun or Saturday NightRun with likeminded folk on 13th and 14th November.

The two 10km NightRuns have been organised by Run Rutland and are social events for those of all fitness levels. Both events take place from Normanton from 6pm, with refreshments at the end.

For more details see www.therutland marathon.co.uk.

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Carefully selected artists from the Royal Academy, Royal Institutes, Federations and Societies

Laurence Stephen Lowry RA RBA | The Old Junk Man, 1963 | 9” x 12.5” | Original Pencil Drawing

New Fine Art Gallery Now Open in Stamford 5-8 The Mews • The George Hotel • Stamford • PE9 2LB Tuesday - Sunday from 11am to 5pm | 01780 480800

Also at Lees Yard • Holt • Norfolk | Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm | 01263 713883

w w w. a d r i a n h i l l f i n e a r t . c o m

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Who would be a nurse?

Well, who would? Particularly during the COVID pandemic we have all been living through. However chatting to Liz, Cat and Chrissy, the Nursing Team at Oakham Grange, we hear that nursing isn’t a ‘job’, but much more of a calling…

“And now a new adventure begins for the three of us as nurse practitioners working together to provide nursing care at Oakham Grange. This is very exciting!

To be able to work as a professional with friends who you have the utmost trust and belief in is very special.”

“I wanted to be a nurse from a young age,” says Cat. “I don’t actually remember wanting to be anything else. Maybe a hairdresser popped into my head for a short period of time but I was soon back to wanting to nurse.”

“I’m the same,’ shares Liz. “From a young age I always knew I wanted to be a nurse, I worked as a support worker in my teens and loved being able to help and empower people helping to make a difference to people’s lives. I have always been an outgoing and thoughtful person, wanting to make a difference. I feel being a nurse does make a real difference to the level of care people receive, enabling everyone to live their best possible life, no matter what health needs they have.”

“I helped out during Leicester local lockdown with increasing testing, I worked with the army to provide testing walk in stations across the city to attempt to control the outbreak.”

“Well,” says Chrissy, “I originally wanted to be a paramedic, but was advised to go into nursing first as it’s easier to transfer over, however I did my community nursing placement and loved it, so knew that was what I wanted to do.”

Cat joins in: “When the pandemic began, I very quickly had to learn new ways of carrying out the nursing care to support patients whilst following the strict guidelines put in place to keep both the patients and us safe.”

Liz: “During the COVID 19 pandemic nurses have been under extreme pressure, I feel proud of how quickly I was able to adapt to the government guidelines and assist throughout this time.”

“I learned that I can quickly adapt to situations that are completely out of the norm, and how important the support of colleagues and senior management is during a very challenging time.”

“That’s nursing,” says Chrissy. “You just got on with it, you have to learn to adapt to the current situation.”

“As a nursing team our aim is to provide the highest standard of nursing care to our residents, based on the individuals needs at any given time. We have many years of experience between us and pride ourselves on our skills and knowledge and the experience we can bring to Oakham Grange.”

Chrissy says: “We are an integrated nursing team that believe communication is key to providing up to date evidence based nursing care, we understand that moving into care is a massive decision and want our residents to feel supported through that transition, we want them to feel safe and understand that they can approach us with any issues/concerns they may have and know that they will be treated with respect and dignity.”

“Our aim is to empower our residents to feel safe, secure and reassured that the nursing team are highly skilled, competent, confident and even available for a cuppa anytime!” smiles Liz. n

n Open now for viewings, Oakham Grange is based on Wheatfield Way, Oakham. To find out how you can arrange a free Dementia support session call Catherine on 01480 273273 or see www.ardale.co.uk.

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BARROWDEN, RUTLAND O.I.E.O £725,000

Located in the heart of the attractive Rutland village of Barrowden, is an attractive, four bedroomed stone-built period property. Beautifully restored and maintained, this peaceful place offers a charming landscaped garden. Inside, the house is light and airy enhanced by the neutral décor and with considerably large windows. The living space includes a spacious reception room, dining room or study and a bright garden room with panoramic views of the garden. Upstairs is equally as bright and airy thanks to the very high ceilings throughout. The principal bedroom benefits from an en-suite bathroom whilst the further three bedrooms share a family bathroom. Outside, the gorgeous garden is a true asset to the property. The central lawn area is surrounded by flower beds and shrubs and features a magnificent Redwood tree.

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

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

fineandcountry.com

COLLYWESTON, RUTLAND Guide Price ÂŁ1,800,000

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

On the edge of Collyweston, stands a magnificent country residence with breathtaking views over the rolling landscape of Rutland. The property was built in the early 1980s using local stone and materials. Set over three floors, it boasts four reception rooms and an impressive kitchen breakfast room on the ground floor. First floor accommodates a superb master suite with a dressing room, a bathroom and a balcony with a hot tub, as well as further three bedrooms and a bathroom and there are three more bedrooms on the second floor. Outside, the separate games room / studio building, adjoining a double garage, is an extremely beneficial asset and could serve many purposes.

NO CHAIN

ASHWELL

£745,000

A beautiful period cottage situated on an enviable plot in the heart of a premium Rutland village. The property offers extensive family accommodation with a wealth of character and is set within very private, glorious gardens and grounds of approx. 1.0 acre. 3 Reception Rooms, Farmhouse Kitchen, 5 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms; Dbl Garage, parking. EPC Exempt (Grade II listed).

LYDDINGTON

NEW

GREETHAM

£560,000

A substantial modern detached property offering flexible and well proportioned family accommodation with ample reception space, five double bedrooms, four bath/shower rooms and useful ancillary accommodation set on a good sized plot within this well regarded Rutland village. Single Garage, off-road parking for a number of vehicles, attractively landscaped rear garden. Energy Rating: TBC.

£535,000

Stunning period cottage offering fully refurbished accommodation with lovely garden in one of Rutland's premium villages. The accommodation is appointed to an exceptional standard and includes a wealth of features, such as exposed stonework, oak beams, handmade English oak skirting boards, bespoke window shutters and balcony with panoramic views. Sitting Room, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Clkrm, 3 Bedrooms, ES Shower Room, Btrm. EPC Exempt (Grade II listed).

UNDER OFFER

SEATON

£575,000

A charming detached village property with dbl Garage, ample parking and established, private gardens enjoying southerly views over the Welland Valley. The property has been refurbished throughout and offers flexible and spacious accommodation with 2 Reception Rooms, open-plan Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm, Utility, 5 Bedrooms, ES Shower Room and Family Bathroom.

Energy Rating: D.

NEW

SKILLINGTON

£465,000

Superb barn conversion beautifully appointed with good quality fittings and immaculately presented throughout. Accommodation is of flexible layout and provides potential for a g/f guest bedroom. Sitting Room, Dining Room, Study, Kitchen, Utility, 2 Dbl Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms; single Garage, lovely landscaped Garden. Energy rating: TBC.

STRETTON

£225,000

Elegant 2-level apartment within a 17th century Grade II* listed mansion house standing in magnificent grounds surrounded by open countryside. Ground Floor: Entrance Porch, Hallway; First Floor: open-plan Living Room/Diner, modern Kitchen, generously proportioned Master Bedroom, further Bedroom, Bathroom. Energy Rating: F.

Guide Price £250,000

Offers in excess £375,000

Park Cottage, Somerby

Honeysuckle Cottage, Pickwell

A well-presented three bedroom cottage style property sitting on the edge of this popular village with beautiful countryside views.

A quintessential, two-bedroom stone cottage with beautifully manicured gardens and a one-bedroom annexe, sitting in a quiet corner of this Leicestershire village.

Guide Price £550,000

Guide Price £575,000

Chater Cottage, North Luffenham

Devonshire Cottage, Wymondham

A fully renovated, four bedroom character cottage with modern, open plan living spaces, stunning views to the South and mature gardens.

A deceptively spacious, four-bedroom ironstone cottage, sitting in a quiet position within this popular Leicestershire village.

Find out more about how Stacks Property Search has been helping clients locate and secure the ideal property in their desired location for over 35 years.

Charlie Rearden

Rutland and The Shires +44(0) 7779 261744 | +44 (0)1780 678770 charlie@stacks.co.uk

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HIGH SPECIFICATION TO INCLUDE: Oak stairs with oak newel, handrail & spindles or glass balustrades. Quartz, granite or Corian worktops and upstands.

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Call 01733 558505 or visit www.oakwoodhomesltd.co.uk REGISTERED DEVELOPER OTHER DEVELOPMENT LOCATIONS: ROYSTON, FOLKSWORTH, HOLBEACH...

STAMFORD’S LUTHIER

STRING

THEORY This month we celebrate the opening of a brand new business in Stamford as Libby Summers opens the door to her violin making, repair and renovation shop. It’s another string to the town’s bow...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

“I set up a business producing hand-knitted bags and alpaca wool hot water bottles which were commissioned by John Lewis and sold by the retailer at Christmas time. I even commissioned my own alpaca wool from Peru and sold it online, alongside DIY knitting kits and craft projects.”

THE SUN WAS SHINING, the morning mist had burnt off the fields as I drove through the countryside and the pupils of Stamford Endowed Schools were filing neatly into their classrooms. The start of another Monday, but it was a morning unlike those which preceded it for Libby Summers, as the teacher turned luthier – or violin maker turned around the sign of her new shop, Stamford Strings, to read ‘Open.’

“But this was around 2012-2015 and online retailing was maturing at a fierce rate and those businesses that were best placed to compete were huge retailers who could sell cheaper and throw hundreds of thousands of pounds at things like SEO.”

It would be particularly apt to state that the new shop is another string to Libby’s bow, given the metaphor’s relevance to her role as a creator, repairer and seller of violins, violas and cellos, now with her own dedicated premises on St. Leonard’s Street.

“I had a wonderful teacher called Jane Page at Stamford High School who made learning the instrument really enjoyable,” recalls Libby. “My grandfather was a musician and tried to pass on the joy to my father, but he was more of a mathematician… and he didn’t really get to grips with it!”

“The same scheme still exists in the school today, which is really commendable.”

“That’s fine because I inherited my grandfather’s instrument instead and in hindsight that was really important.

You’ve more passion for an instrument if you’ve a really nice example of one to play, right from the start. I always had a tremendous love and respect for my first violin.”

Whilst studying Libby also lead the university’s chamber orchestra and upon graduation, moved to Cambridge to take up a research position in the city, eventually meeting her husband and then moving to Surrey.

“Stamford Endowed School had a brilliant scheme when I first started to play at 11 years of age whereupon each child could learn a stringed instrument.”

Libby was raised in the town but left to study towards a MA (Hons) in Social Anthropology at Fife’s University of St Andrews in the early 1990s.

“I fell into teaching the violin,” Libby admits.

“We lived in the quintessential Surrey village where many of the other ladies in the area had founded cottage industries. We were surrounded by textile artists, artisan bakeries, craft business and other rural enterprises.”

“I had already undertaken a teaching qualification and at the same time I was picking up lots more violin tuition. I visited Newark’s School of Violin Making – a leading place for the craft, one of the best five places in the world to learn the skills needed – and with just one sniff of the wonderfully scented workshops, bristling with the chafing of a plane and murmer of craftsmanship, I knew I’d found a way to combine my two passions; crafts and music.”

Covid has made the completion of Libby’s course a little more difficult. Ordinarily around 18-20 students work alongside one another on the timed creation of their magnum opus; a violin made over five weeks to be judged by Peter Beare. For the uninitiated, that’s the super-posh home of stringed instruments on London’s Queen Anne Street established in 1865 and now home to Beare’s International Violin Society. >>

Above: Libby opened her new violin shop on St Leonard’s Street recently. Cutting the ribbon on opening day were Stamford’s Mayor Bill Turner and Deputy Mayor Gloria Johnson.

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>> Along with her peers, Libby has spent 2020 crafting half a cello and over a five week period her final year instrument too, ready to be judged in December – something which usually takes place in July.

Her instrument is judged in the white; in other words, unvarnished, as that final coat can cover a multitude of sins which betray a less than deft touch with the hand tools and 200 plus hours it takes to make a violin, a whistlestop tour of which we’ve provided over the page.

It’s possible to pick up a cheap violin online for less than a hundred pounds. They’ll sound every bit as cheap as their price tag suggests, but at least when the present Mrs Davis tires of my clumsy efforts to learn the instrument and eventually re-purposes it as a blunt instrument - as opposed to a musical one – it may be considered as a more disposable object.

For the more invested, modern factorymade violins such as those from Hidersine, Eastman and Primavera cost anywhere from 20

£100 to £1,000, with a market, too, for older violins whose prices are dependent on provenance and quality, roughly £500£3,000. Libby’s shop has around 20 handmade violins from those who can best be described as artisan makers. Libby is one, and her second year instrument has a price tag of £2,000.

Her tutor in Newark was Peter Smith, who has decades of experience as a luthier and whose instruments command £10,000.

Libby shows me one and it’s certainly beautiful, but it takes someone with a more acute ear that mine to discern the difference in sound. Higher grade handmade violins from all eras start at around £3,000 and go up to millions of pounds for the most desirable Stradivarus or Guarneri.

To our mind – and our ears – the sweet spot in the violin market is that of the handmade instrument by Libby or her contemporaries.

With five or six weeks and upwards of 200 hours invested in the creation of each instrument, Libby couldn’t make instruments

rapidly enough to solely stock her own violins, and so provides a boutique for other luthiers’ work. Libby knows, by rote, the dimensions of a violin, the slightly larger viola and significantly larger cellos.

“Many violins are based quite heavily upon the design of Antonio Stradivari – they sell for as much as $16m today - but the instrument I play is based on Giuseppe Guarneri. To the untrained eye – and ear – violins based on each 17th and 18th century maker are similar but there are differences.”

“Choosing a violin you enjoy playing is quite personal, subjective. Different instruments produce sounds more suitable for orchestral, chamber or solo performances and the different woods, variations in shape and string setups are additional considerations.”

“A violin can also vary in weight. Ideally the instrument should be as light as possible without feeling fragile and should have the right thickness and consistency for sound projection – varying from 2.3-5mm.” >>

Main: A couple of examples of Libby Summers’ own violins are on sale in the shop alongside those of other artisan violin makers. Shown above is Libby carving the scroll and planing the piece of maple which will eventually form the back of the instrument.

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How to make a hand-crafted

VIOLIN It takes 200-270 hours over the course of five weeks to craft a violin such as the handmade examples Libby produces. Dimensions usually conform to those of Stradivarius’ or Guarneri’s instruments. The design starts with a mould around which the violin’s sides - or ribs – are wrapped.

Heat, steam and a bit of brute force are used to bend the planed pieces of wood around the circumference of the mould.

From a slightly wedge-shaped piece of maple, around an inch to two inches thick, the shape of the violin’s front plate is gouged out. Arching templates help to create a symmetrical curve both on the outside of the instrument and on the interior, and callipers are a luthier’s best friend. But still it’s judgement and skill which provide a consistent thickness for the instrument’s front and back panels, typically 2.6mm – 3mm to the front and 5mm for the back. The centre of the back of the instrument is slightly thicker for acoustic purposes and the bass bar (a sort of spine attached to the front panel) and a sound post are positioned, the latter under the treble end of the bridge.

Finger boards are typically made of ebony, positioned over the neck, then the scroll, tail piece and chin rest are added, along with strings traditionally in catgut (sheep intestine) but typically nylon or steel today.

Suffice to say the tolerances are submillimetre and the steady-handedness needed would send a shiver down the spine of even the most competent cabinet maker or wood carver.

Once complete, an instrument is glued using a natural hide adhesive, then varnished. Libby ‘sets up’ or adjusts each instrument but in violin schools, the completed instruments of students are judged prior to varnishing (a condition known as ‘in the white’). n

Right: Libby Summers is the violin teacher turned luthier - that’s the proper term for a maker of stringed instruments!

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“For the first time in my life, I drew a roisined horsehair bow gently across a violin. The noise which resulted was like two drunken cats engaged in a heated debate about Brexit...” >> Remarkably some people on Libby’s course in Newark didn’t even play a stringed instrument.

Libby’s understanding of violins and violas meanwhile is unsurpassed and can be described quite legitimately as inside out since making her own instruments also gives her an insight into how tweaking and adjusting even quite inexpensive instruments can help them perform better, as well as helping her in restoring and repairing instruments.

“I’ve only just gained a dedicated premises for my work but when I was working from home I was completing two or three repairs a week, and I usually have one or two restorations on the go at any one time.

I’ve a bowmaker who will be joining me to rehair bows which is a common necessity, and to replace them if the bow has suffered damage or the owner wants to upgrade.”

I’d barely set foot in the door of Stamford Strings before the first walk-in customer greeted her and confessed that his violin had seen better days. The gentlemen confessed that he’d been meaning to have it repaired for some time, but simply didn’t know where to take it. He’d certainly come to the right

place… unlike me, who it’s safe to say won’t be performing in public any time soon.

For the first time ever, I balanced a violin on my shoulder, wrapped my fingers around the string board, and drew a roisined horsehair bow gently across the instrument.

Dear god… the noise which resulted was like two drunken cats engaged in a heated debate about Brexit.

Happily, Libby was happy to take over and delivered an impromptu performance of Elgar. Her repertoire, by all accounts is eclectic, taking in classical, jazz and pop.

The genre, she points out, is irrelevant, against the competence of the performer and the joy one can find in the tune.

Another visitor to pop by during our visit was Stamford’s Mayor Bill Turner with Deputy Mayor Gloria Johnson who cut a ribbon to officially declare Libby’s new business open.

With a snip and a round of applause, the town gained its newest enterprise, owned and run by a true specialist in her field keen to provide a traditional service, and a unique one at that… one might say that the shop is yet another string to Stamford’s bow. n

Find Out More: Libby Summers is the owner and director of Stamford Strings, St Leonard’s Street, Stamford. Call 07818 286538 or see www.stamfordstrings.co.uk.

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Contact the Stamford team on b www.bulleydavey.co.uk

Baldock Oundle

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Corby

Holbeach Spalding

Wisbech

RUTLAND AUTHOR ADAM CROFT

MURDER IN MIND Where better than the idyllic, crime-free, pastoral landscape of Rutland with its gentle folk and even gentler way of life to base a series of crime novels? Practically anywhere one would have thought...

Local author Adam Croft has more than managed it though. Have a read and see for yourself; you’ll be one of the 2,000,000 readers the author has gained since publishing his first book ten years ago.

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

SOMETIMES LIFE DOESN’T GO YOUR WAY. I’d love to say, if nothing else for dramatic effect, that I’m staring into the cold bleak eyes of a sinister individual. But in fact, author Adam Croft is a handsome, neatly turned out, lovely guy; as articulate as one would expect and (seemingly) well-adjusted.

Not ideal for a magazine writer seeking to plumb the depth of cliches and paint the picture of a maladjusted crime writer obsessed with the very darkest deeds... but..

I’ll take it.

Speaking of life not going your way, it wasn’t a great day for one (thankfully, only fictional) individual whose body washed up on the shores of Rutland Water recently. Spoiler alert; this wasn’t a skinny dipping adventure gone wrong - there’s murder afoot and there’s only one Rutland based detective we’d trust to sort out the whole grubby business.

Tell us about DI Caroline Hills...

The lead character in a novel is usually the window to the story; the senses, the eyes and ears of the reader. I wanted Caroline to be a normal family woman to ensure she remained relatable. She’s from London and moved to Rutland after working in the Met. It’s been a bit of a culture shock to her, moving to a quieter, more pastoral county, and in my first book set in Rutland, What Lies Beneath, she comes across as a bit brash and insensitive.

She’s softened a little with the publication of the second book, and we find that Rutland has shaped her own personal challenges, helping her to find a little resolution.

Caroline has also found a good ally in the form of DS Dexter Antoine who is able to stand up to her a bit, tell it like it is.

She respects that, and we see that there’s a real friendship developing between them.

Why set your novels in Rutland?

I was born in Bedfordshire but my parents moved to the area about 10 years ago. I’ve spent two or three days a week up here since becoming an author.

There’s something about the area, it has a certain appeal. Whether it’s the scenery, the culture or the sense of community I don’t know, but it makes it really easy to focus the mind. Rutland is the first real location I’ve ever used and I was hesitant to do it for fear of making it seem less idyllic than it is, but I’d like to think I’m doing the place justice, demonstrating all the good that there is here, not turning it into the next Midsomer!

What made you first write about crime?

Ironically it comes from a desire to make people happy. I passed up a chance to go to university and career wise, I was always one of life’s floaters, I’d worked in a couple of marketing jobs, as a web designer and I tried acting too, which was actually a big help in learning how to get into a character’s mind, but armed with A-levels in English, IT,

psychology and philosophy each of which have proved useful, I decided to publish my work independently.

Why publish independently?

A book takes a lot of time to write and you only have to arrive on the wrong person’s desk or on someone’s desk when they haven’t the time to read it properly and the chance of being published could be missed.

I started to write my first book at the age of 22 and it was published two years later. Since then I’ve written and independently published about 30 different titles and I enjoy the freedom of being self-employed but still in a creative profession. I work hard, never taking for granted the fact that I’ve a job I enjoy very much, but it never ceases to be a pleasure!

How do you work?

The ideas and plot take as much effort as getting the ideas down in words. I try to have a rough idea of my next two books and let the ideas ferment in my mind. Stories of course have a beginning, a middle and an end, so it’s a case of knowing where you are, and using waypoints to get to the next destination in small steps that are understandable and natural to the reader.

I’ve an appreciation for psychology and that helps in terms of making people, characters, relatable and realistic in terms of their body language, their non-verbal communication, and their motivation. >>

Main Image: Independently published author Adam Croft has sold more than two million books to date in 138 different countries.

Adam’s Rutland crime series includes What Lies Beneath and his newest novel On Borrowed Time... a third will be published in spring 2021.

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ADAM CROFT

>> Once I know what I want to write, I sit down at my laptop, usually in my office but occasionally in the garden, and try to complete the actual writing in the morning.

Think of it like music; you don’t have to be able to play an instrument yourself to know whether someone is performing something well or badly.

Each book is around 55,000-60,000 words in length so I set myself an informal target of writing 2,000 words a day, over 30 working days. It’s a pacemaker target rather than a hard and fast rule, but I always feel more comfortable knowing that I’m making steady progress - it takes the pressure off.

You’ve expectation and as you listen to a song or a tune you recognise if that piece is concordant, if it’s in the same key. Music has structure, as much as it has variation, and readers have the same expectations.

I’m very lucky as my wife Jo has recently taken on the running of the office, which helps enormously. You could actually be an author who publishes independently and never get around to writing a word... there’s always something to do from liaising with vendors, to marketing and bookkeeping, proof-reading and so on. Having Jo helping to keep me focused is really great!

Do you ever suffer writers’ block?

I don’t think writers’ block is a condition in and of itself. All sorts of things can get in the way of writing, from distractions to having a section of the story which isn’t clear in your mind or isn’t planned as well as the rest of the story.

It’s definitely easier when you’re in the right frame of mind to write, but if it’s not quite flowing it helps to take a step back and work out why.

How do you write a good crime novel?

People always enjoy knowing ‘why.’ The crime writer Agatha Christie wrote a series of books founded on the premise that there are a total of just seven motives to murder.

The inherent pleasure of a good crime novel is to keep the reader guessing. Some readers take pleasure in figuring it out; others like to be fooled or kept guessing.

I think it’s akin to the craft of a good sleight of hand magician who keeps you wondering and misdirects you!

“I’m very grateful to Rutland for providing such a great location in which to set my novels, so I’m always keen to favour local retailers...”

The murderer has to be one of the characters you’ve introduced... you couldn’t have a crime novel in which the perpetrator is someone random, someone you’ve never ever met.

So let’s assume there are 20 characters in a book, you’ve less than a one in 20 chance of guessing the correct person assuming the lead character, fellow police officer etc., isn’t going to act out of character and without prior warning.

I’ve discovered that Tibetan bowl music or meditation music as a track in the background can help the writing process!

I’ve also taken to lighting incense sticks... both together can actually double the number of words I can write in a day! It’s become quite a Pavlovian reaction; I seem to smell the incense and start to write!

Not so much a rule but you can get away with a lot as an author as long as there’s a reason or a motivation for a character’s actions. It’s the old convention for writers that if you introduce a gun on a shelf, chances are it’s going to be fired at some point. Readers accept that.

I’ve also produced a series of stories under the Knight & Culverhouse and Young Culverhouse set which is a bit grittier, quite a bit darker.

The Rutland crime series is a little more accessible, with none of the bad language and gore, two things which are dramatic, but shouldn’t be used gratuitously.

Have we seen the last of crime in Rutland?

Things appear to have settled down in the county for now, but I have a feeling that somewhere, something is happening that will keep Caroline busy in 2021... and my readers too.

Where do we find your books?

But you sometimes have a little help?

Is that a ‘rule’ of writing?

I’ve completed the next novel in my Kempston Hardwick Mysteries series, which is a ‘cosier’ series of novel, a little more akin to an Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmes mystery - like something from the golden age of crime fiction.

Yes... sometimes it’s too quiet. We’ve a three year old son and occasionally it’s nice to have a bit of background noise, but when he’s not there it can feel a little too eerie.

Are your stories standalone novels?

Each book can be read independently, but the Rutland crime series does have an arc which continues across the first two books and the third one, which will be published in spring 2021.

I’m very grateful to Rutland for providing such a great location in which to set my novels, so I’m always keen to favour local retailers. I like to make sure that books purchased in local bookshops are sold at the same price or cheaper than on Amazon, and that local retailers receive signed copies.

There’s a full list of stockists on my website.

And we can hear you speaking about you craft online too?

I’m really lucky to be deemed one of the world’s leading experts on independent publishing, and I’ve been featured on BBC Radio 4, on BBC TV, in The Guardian and on the Huffington Post. I’ve sold 2,000,000 books to date in over 138 different countries.

In March 2018 I was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts from The University of Bedfordshire and I present Partners in Crime, a podcast with fellow author Robert Daws.

If you believe you have a book inside you, there’s no point in waiting. Whether it’s the first of many drafts and whether you independently publish your work or it’s something you do just for pleasure I think writing is one of the most creative and rewarding processes... it gives me an enormous amount of pleasure and I’m so grateful that I’m able to share my work with others who appreciate it! n

n Adam Croft is the independently published author who has found Rutland a great inspiration... his books are available from good local independent bookshops or online from www.adamcroft.net.

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UPPINGHAM’S FATSTOCK

Uppingham’s

FATSTOCK

Alas, Covid has claimed another scalp as this year’s Uppingham Christmas Fatstock Show, due to be held on 25th November and the 114th event in its history, has been cancelled.

Instead, we’re speaking to Charlie Mason about the Show’s history and why it’s more important than ever to continue the event and celebrate high welfare standards in livestock farming...

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Dean Fisher and Charlie Mason.

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>> ALAS, the curse of Covid claims another scalp. This year’s Uppingham Fatstock Show has been cancelled, much to the dismay of all those who enjoy its presence in the town in the run up to Christmas.

Indeed, it’s the Fatstock Show Committee which also donates Uppingham’s Christmas tree each year, a tradition it will uphold despite the cancellation of the Show itself.

Nobody is more disappointed than Chairman of the Show, Charlie Mason.

Charlie has been attending the show for nearly 60 years and has been a part of the team organising it each November/ December for nearly 40 years.

A true countryman, we joined Charlie in Uppingham just as the decision to cancel the show was taken and just as his winter horde of bramble jelly was reaching boiling point on the stove.

Flanked by Parson Russell Terrier Zeppelin, Charlie sat down to explain over a cuppa the historic importance that fatstock shows had to local communities just prior to Christmas.

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“Fatstock shows usually ran concurrently with conventional livestock markets around Christmas time,” he says. “Unlike other shows, which now take place in the summer months in our area, the animals shown generally aren’t pedigrees or rare breeds… with a few exceptions these days in Uppingham.”

“The animals tend to be cross-breeds – bred for the quality of their meat – and entries are presented finished and all ready for slaughter. The original purpose of a fatstock show was to enable stockmen and farmers to present their very best animals to local butchers, who could then purchase by auction the very best fattened stock for their Christmas trade, allowing time to slaughter and hang them ready for the festive table.”

“When butchers purchased animals, they would also take the rosettes to display in their windows, so customers would know they were purchasing the best prize-winning meat. The owners of the animals of course gained status, plus prize money, rosettes and silverware.”

“The original purpose of a fatstock show was to enable stockmen and farmers to present their very best beasts to local butchers prior to Christmas...”

Traditionally, animals at a fatstock show would be auctioned off, following the awarding of prizes, in the cattle market which ran alongside them.

Although most, if not all, livestock markets run fatstock shows on their premises, usually alongside a normal weekly market; as far as we are aware there are only three that still take place as stand-alone events in temporary penning: Uppingham, Dartmouth and Winslow.

Many of the cattle which appear at Uppingham are then shown again and sold at Melton Mowbray’s Fatstock Show which takes place a week or so later.

There are fourteen classes in total: seven for cattle, four for sheep and three for pigs.

In 2019 the entries comprised around 20 cattle, 200 sheep and 25 pigs.

“At least one class is reserved for animals sired by a native bull and we’re really happy that native breeds are thriving. Waitrose, Morrisons and other retailers are favouring

native breeds and people are beginning to question where their food comes from, which is perhaps why we’re all acknowledging the link between high-welfare farming and food quality.”

Born in Stamford, Charlie’s parents ran the Wheatsheaf Inn from 1953 to 1970 – the pub in which he was raised – and the Cross Keys Inn from 1970 to 1985.

Having worked on farms both locally and as far away as Shropshire, Charlie worked in livestock marketing before taking up a post in 1988 with the Humane Slaughter Association (HSA), a charity which works to improve the welfare of food animals during marketing, transport and slaughter.

Initially his role was carrying out assessments of livestock markets and he became the group’s Technical Director in 2001.

Having served as Uppingham Fatstock Show’s secretary between 1997 and 2008, and as its Chairman from 2013 to the present day, Charlie is conscious of how

Top: Charlie Mason, Fatstock Chairman.

Above: These are the hand-written minutes from the meeting held in 1949 in which the committee decided to resume Uppingham Fatstock Show. The event recommenced on 15th December 1949.

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UPPINGHAM’S FATSTOCK SHOW

Right: In 1911, top prize for the best beast was £84, or £10,000 in today’s money!

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unconnected consumers have become from their food and how high welfare in farming and caring for livestock has a direct benefit, not just to the animals themselves but to the consumer too, in terms of the quality of their meat.

The cancellation of this year’s Show was made with a heavy heart, given that so few of these events now take place even in rural communities like ours.

The first Uppingham Fatstock Show took place in 1889 and just 18 shows have been cancelled since, owing to the two World Wars and three outbreaks of notifiable disease. It was back in 1949 that a committee got together the resurrect the tradition of Uppingham Fatstock Show post-war.

Chaired by John Blood, the group decided to hold the event a little later than usual on Thursday December 15th 1949. Charlie is still in possession of the note book with the

“Former patrons of Uppingham Fatstock Show include the Duke of Rutland and Marquess of Exeter...” initial minutes recorded in it, which reads: “It was reported that a balance of £51.11.10 was on deposit at Barclays Bank,” and that the show would be “Open to all those feeders of stock who had been grading stock in Uppingham up to the point of August 1949.”

2005 saw the celebration of the 100th Uppingham Fatstock Show with the Rt Hon Lord Vestey being the Chief Guest. It was an especially vigorous celebration that year at the annual dinner, which is held at The Falcon Hotel in the town’s Market Place at around 2.30, following the event.

Recent years have seen the last of the old wooden pens replaced with new metal infrastructure and, with an aim to grow the show when it returns in 2021, the group is looking for more local farmers and landowners to support the Uppingham Fatstock Show to ensure the tradition is kept alive and well.

Former patrons include the Duke of Rutland and the Marquess of Exeter, so perhaps today’s nobility will offer a similar degree of support to the Show for its return next year.

“We’re hoping to be able to do something this year and discussions around that are still taking place,” he says.

“But we remain proud that Uppingham is one of the very few towns left which can still hold a fatstock show like ours.

“It shows the area is proud of its farming heritage, proud of its welfare standards and committed to upholding rural traditions.” n

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UPPINGHAM FATSTOCK, 1900 to 1920s: The First Uppingham Fatstock Show was held in 1889, but prior to this there were of course livestock markets held in most rural towns. Up until the railway arrived in Oakham around 1848, Uppingham’s market was always larger than Oakham’s, though this dwindled a little as a result of it being bypassed for rail transport. Our top images show one of the first photos of Uppingham Fatstock Show, circa 1900, and below we see a 1905 image of the market place with The Falcon Hotel in the background. Shown here is Mr Staples with his prize-winning pig circa 1920. Unhappily, many of the young men attending the shows in the early to mid-1910s would be lost to the Great War. n

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UPPINGHAM’S FATSTOCK SHOW - THROUGH THE DECADES

WARTIME, 1930s and 1940s:

FATSTOCK, 1970s and 1980s:

The advent of the Second World War saw 10 annual fatstock Shows cancelled. During times of rationing, the Ministry of Food appointed graders to allocate meat to local butchers. Livestock markets continued to function, but the annual shows didn’t take place.

The hiatus in fatstock shows continued throughout the 1940s, until 1949 when it was decided the town should once again have a show. John Blood was the event’s chairman when the Fatstock Show resumed on 15th December 1949. The image below shows the champion beast of 1936 or 1938 shown by Henry Griffin of Egleton. n

Our image from the 1970s shows a wide view of the event with its wooden pens, now replaced by modern metal penning. Below our image shows Geoff Green & Jim Thraves with the Champion Beast in 1984. n

Fatstock Will Return 2020 was supposed to be the 114th Uppingham Fatstock, but with Covid preventing the event happening, the show will return in 2021.

NOW 114 YEARS OLD, the 1990s and 2000s: In 2005, Uppingham held a celebration for its 100th Fatstock Show. 2001’s Foot & Mouth outbreak had once again caused the event to be cancelled but the 100th Show was a huge success with 14 livestock classes and hundreds of people attending. All being well, the Fatstock Show will return, stronger than ever, in 2021. n

BRAVE NEW WORLD, 1950s and 1960s: Above, we see Albert (Ab) Shephard, Tommy Johnson, Matt Thraves and Mr Bradshaw (Tinwell) happily accepting their prize, we think in 1951. During the post-war era, from 1949, Uppingham Fatstock Show resumed and in 1954 rationing came to an end. There was no sale of stock until recent years, though. n

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BURGHLEY HOUSE AT WAR

Burghley House’s

WARTIME HEROES The Marquess of Exeter and his Marchioness ensured that during The Great War they did all they could to support the effort of those fighting on the continent, and those left behind...

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Burghley House.

WITH ITS ELIZABETHAN ARCHITECTURE, and its deer-grazed parkland, Burghley House is the epitome of a peaceful English stately home. With the exception of families enjoying walking in the grounds, perhaps the clinking of teacups in the Orangery restaurant or the giggling of children in the Garden of Surprises during the summer, there are few noises to disturb the happiness and idyll, but it wasn’t always so.

Even Burghley House fell under the shadow of The Great War and the aristocratic Marquess of Exeter and his Marchioness were as compelled as the rest of the population to do their bit to help the country survive what would prove to be a long and horrific conflict. But from the horrors of war come the tales of heroism, and the efforts of those who lived and worked around Burghley have been documented over a century on by the property’s historians.

The 5th Marquess of Exeter...

William Thomas Brownlow Cecil, the 5th Marquess of Exeter - for the sake of our word count we’ll refer to him simply as the Marquess from this point on - lived from 1846 to 1956, sadly long enough to witness both World Wars.

The Marquess was a Territorial Army Officer prior to the outbreak of war and held

the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the 54th (East Anglian) Artillery Division. Whilst at Burghley the Marquess and his Regiment were given emergency orders just one day after Britain declared war on Germany, and told to mobilise for ‘full time war service.’

The regiment established coastal defences in Norfolk and Suffolk to prevent incursion by U-Boats, but left England for Northern France on 17th November 1915. Thereafter the regiment were sent to Mena Camp in Egypt prior to Gallipoli and were involved in battles in Gaza, Jaffa and at the Battle of Sharon prior to returning to England in January 1919.

Burghley’s Staff at War...

Charles Betts was a soldier in the Marquess’s regiment, serving with him in Egypt. Betts had previously worked on the Burghley estate and later undertook officer training in Cairo. During this period he wrote a letter back to his wife in which he acknowledged the gratitude of Lord and Lady Exeter who continued to pay half of his wages to his wife whilst he was away on active service.

It was a similar story for Arthur Groves who was Under Butler at the stately home before signing up to serve with the Royal Garrison Artillery in June 1917. Groves returned to Burghley and was promoted to Butler,

working for the family until his eventual retirement in the early 1960s.

Major Vivian Horsman Bailey was Adjutant to the 5th Marquess from 1916 until the end of the war and was awarded the Military Cross for acts of gallantry. Upon his return to Burghley he became the Marquess’s Personal Assistant and lived at the Dairy Farm on the Burghley Estate.

Another of Burghley’s wartime heroes was Edgar Cunnington who was employed in the estate’s saw mill from 1908. He joined the Marquess’s regiment in June 1911 aged just 17 years and six months. Edgar fought with the regiment in France, Egypt, Mesopotamia and in Syria, Basra and Baghdad, chiefly protecting oil pipelines.

Edgar Cunnington, was in charge of what was broadly termed transportation, which at that time meant taking care of horses and camels more than motor vehicles.

On returning to Burghley he resumed his work in the saw mill and retired in 1965 after 57 years of service.

As a final act of service to his old wartime commander Edgar Cunnington made Lord Exeter’s coffin when he died in 1956 with timber set aside for the purpose a number of years earlier. >>

Main Image: Burghley House was used as a hospital during the First World War. Seen here is Commandant and Matron Mildred Cathcart, with Lady Exeter seated.

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BURGHLEY’S WARTIME HEROES

>> Of course, many of the young men who left Stamford to fight weren’t as lucky, and Private Victor Barrett joined the 7th Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment and was sent to France to fight.

Victor was killed in the Battle of Ypres on 20th December 1915 and is buried in the Menin Road South Military Cemetery in Belgium.

The Hospital at Burghley...

During both wars, large privately owned buildings were frequently requisitioned for wartime purposes and Burghley was no exception, serving asa hospital. The first soldiers to return from fighting for a period of convalescence were 15 Belgian officers in October 1914.

At first there were just 15 soldiers but from 1916 this increased to 20. Initially it was proposed that the soldiers would recuperate in the servants’ quarters, but additional beds and plumbing for sinks were installed in the Orange Court - now known at the Orangery Restaurant - and the soldiers were accommodated there.

Soldiers recovering would wear Hospital Blues - blue uniforms with red ties - and were treated as though still on active service.

They would have to obey orders and needed a signed pass to leave the hospital.

On Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays they were permitted to leave the hospital and visit Stamford ‘to get fresh air and exercise, not to spend time in the streets...’

Whilst staying at Burghley, the soldiers would eat porridge for breakfast and were given rabbit pie, mutton chops, boiled eggs and sausages on alternating days too. Lunch included dishes like stewed hare, rabbit, and cold beef. Supper was usually cold meat, bread and cheese.

Many patients took advantage of their stay to have dental treatment, especially extractions and false teeth. This lasted from 1914 to 1916 when ‘unnecessary’ dental treatment was stopped.

Naturally gunshot wounds and shrapnel accounted for many of the injuries, but pneumonia, trench foot and the effects of gas attacks were also seen. The Commandant and Matron of the facility was Nurse Mildred Cathcart, with records showing 44

Mary Cathcart, Musgrove, Jones and an Orderly named Partridge helping to run the hospital too. Medical care was administered

by Dr Greenwood.

The Marchioness of Exeter...

Lady Exeter was also committed to helping out with the war effort. Myra Rowena Sibell Cecil, Marchioness of Exeter, to give her the proper introduction, lived from 1879 to 1973 and took over management of the estate whilst the Marquess was away.

Lady Exeter supported Stamford’s Red Cross fundraising efforts, attending endless meetings and also spent time with soldiers who were recuperating in the hospital.

She would take soldiers to concerts and would even give them the opportunity to go for a ride in her car - a real novelty. She would also send parcels to soldiers serving in Europe comprising soap, tooth paste, shaving soap, Oxo cubes and writing pads and pencils so they could sent letters back home.

As well as helping to run the estate, the Marchioness also gave birth to her daughter, Romayne in March 1915. n

“Lady Exeter supported Stamford’s Red Cross fundraising efforts, attending endless meetings and also spent time with soldiers who were recuperating in the hospital...”

Above: Soldiers recuperating in what is now the Orangery Restaurant.

Opposite: Patients and staff at Burghley.

Bottom photo shows Mildred Cathcart, Partridge, the Orderly, Lady Exeter and nurses Musgrove and Jones.

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DINING OUT BARNSDALE LODGE

Going Back to BARNSDALE Celebrating autumn dining at one of the area’s most well-respected dining rooms, Barnsdale Lodge...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

There’s some real talent in the kitchen of Barnsdale Lodge. It takes not just technical ability but real creative flair to devise menus which reflect the different customers who pass through the doors of the hotel.

To some Barnsdale Lodge is a country retreat.

To others it represents a place for more formal dining and to others still, it’s a meeting place for coffee and a sandwich or slice of cake.

The most recent à la carte menus at the hotel have had to cleverer still. The hotel delayed its reopening past July and instead reopened in early September with fewer covers and a smaller brigade in the kitchen, for reasons of social distancing.

That means its latest menu has had to be efficient, enabling a smaller brigade to produce food to the same standard without diners having to experience any delays.

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Summer produce at the time of our visit was on its way out and autumn ingredients were yet to make an appearance.

It’s a tall order to produce a menu that’s still appealing in those circumstances, and yet, by golly, Barnsdale Lodge’s latest menu is a triumph of taste, a celebration of local ingredients and a paragon of efficiency too.

There can be few in the area who have yet to enjoy the dining room of Barnsdale Lodge but if it’s been a while, we’re glad to provide a refresher course. The oldest bits of the hotel, a former farmhouse, date back to about 1760, and in 1989 the place was converted into what is now a hotel deeply ingrained in Rutland’s dining culture.

The hotel has 46 bedrooms, and work on a rolling programme of refurbishment for all of those continued during summer when no guests meant not having to worry about creating a disturbance. Every cloud...?

In recent years Rutland’s own wallpaper artist Annie Allison has also contributed a bespoke design to some of the hotel’s dining rooms too like the Cottage and Pheasant rooms, which are ideal if you’re dining in small groups this festive season.

Central to the Barnsdale Lodge experience is the look and feel of the conservatory with its views over the courtyard, and the Vettriano room, with its eponymous artwork on the walls and its traditional feel.

With the addition a couple of years ago of the garden room adjacent to the conservatory, all three rooms provide a comfortable place to enjoy meeting up... or at least they do in usual circumstances.

In the current climate, the hotel has opted to close to non-resident diners who would normally book in on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday evenings. The dining room remains open during both daytime from Tuesday to

The country estates of Exton and Easton provide game during the winter and Rutland Water is, of course, the only place the brigade would go to source their trout...”

Sunday and in the evening for those wishing to book a table and diners enjoy a choice of an à la carte menu, or a daily-changing specials menu with three options per course.

During our visit, the à la carte menu provided dishes such as our starter of smoked local partridge served with poached Williams pear, and roasted hazelnuts, and our main course, a thoroughly patriotic Rutland Water trout dish served with roasted fennel, artichoke risotto and rock samphire.

Our pudding of choice was a very autumn Braeburn apple & blackberry crumble with granola crust and crème Anglais.

Local ingredients are used extensively by David and the team right across the menus.

Game during autumn and winter is shot on the adjacent Exton estate, at Easton, or on nearby farms. The hotel’s own flock of hens and ducks provide its eggs.

There’s also a productive kitchen garden, providing vegetables and herbs, whilst trout comes from, where else, but that estimable pond slap bang in the middle of Rutland.

And of course, bread, desserts, sauces, petit fours and all of the other elements of your meal are made in house. Even the hotel’s vinaigrette is made by David’s uncle. >>

MEET THE CHEF DAVID BUKOWICKI

Food History: “I’ve worked in the Square in London; a restaurant in Devonshire and in Leeds each of which had one or two Michelin stars.”

Food Heaven: ”Seafood and fresh fish is my food heaven. I used to work in Spain so I love tapas too!”

Food Hell: ”Food that has been thrown together in a pile, like a really bad carvery!” n

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on the MENU FROM THE À LA CARTE MENU AT EXTON’S BARNSDALE LODGE Starters Smoked local partridge with poached pear William and toasted hazelnuts £8.25.

Easton estate venison bon bon with Cumberland dressing and watercress £8.95.

Cromer crab cakes with chilli, lime and oriental vegetables £9.95.

Main Courses Rutland Water trout fillet with roasted fennel, artichoke risotto and rock samphire £17.95.

Lemon and thyme chicken schnitzel with truffle parmesan fries and rocket salad £16.95.

>> During the summer, the wedding market has been sadly barren, with all of Barnsdale’s 2020 events rescheduling for next year.

Also suspended are the usual Barnsdale Lodge events in the run up to Christmas, including a whole series of Christmas parties and the hotel’s popular Christmas Day lunch and New Years Eve events.

With this lull in larger festivities though comes the opportunity to enjoy Barnsdale Lodge in more intimate groups, for which its private dining rooms are especially ideal.

OPEN FOR FOOD Lunch: Tuesday – Saturday 12pm – 2.30pm.

Sunday Lunch: 12pm – 2pm.

Dinner: Monday – Saturday 6.30pm – 9pm.

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Managing Director Ed Burrows and GM Warren Browning are both still keeping their fingers crossed for the hotel’s enormously successful Burn’s Night event.

Even in bubbles of six diners there’s a great atmosphere and a warm welcome at the hotel. We love the place; always have and always will. Why? Because it’s an everyman venue, with ladies enjoying morning coffee together alongside gentlemen walking the dog in the surrounding countryside and businesspeople holding very important meetings, discussing very important things.

You can’t put a price either on this sort of continuity or such comfort in this day and age, which is why we were overjoyed to revisit Barnsdale last month and discover the same old place with the same old welcome.

This month, if you’re seeking great autumn dining, delivered by a team determined to keep up their high standards and provide the same Barnsdale Lodge you know and love, we can’t help but recommend a visit! n

Grasmere farm pork fillet and belly with whole grain mustard, Bramley apple and Cavolo Nero £18.95.

Desserts Lemon verbena pannacotta with poached raspberries £7.95.

Braeburn apple and blackberry crumble with granola crust and crème Anglaise £7.50.

Dark chocolate delice with poached figs and Chantilly cream £8.95.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change.

n Barnsdale Lodge Hotel is based at The Avenue, Exton, Oakham Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

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15 BULBY ROAD, IRNHAM, NR GRANTHAM NG33 4JG 01476 550201 | griffininn@irnhamhall.co.uk | www.thegriffinirnham.co.uk

Look forward to seeing you at The Griffin Inn Irnham 52

In the KITCHEN This delicious dish uses Rutland Water trout for a brilliant and very quick midweek meal...

RUTLAND WATER TROUT & DILL FISHCAKES Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 20 minutes. Serves: Four.

Ingredients: 280g Rutland Water trout fillets • 400g mashed potato • 5 salad onions, finely chopped 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and roughly chopped • 35g cornichons, finely chopped • ½ x 20g pack dill, snipped 2 lemons, 1 zested and juiced, the other in wedges • 1 tbsp olive oil 220g runner beans • 150g broad beans, steamed, to serve

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Place the trout on a foil-lined baking tray and grill for eight minutes. Set aside to cool, then thickly flake, discarding the skin.

In a large bowl, mix the mashed potato with the salad onions, capers, cornichons, dill, lemon zest and two tbsp juice.

Fold through the trout, shape into eight cakes and chill in the

fridge for 15 minutes. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan or saute pan over a medium heat.

Gently cook the fishcakes in two batches for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and warmed through.

Serve the fishcakes with the steamed vegetables and lemon wedges.

Recipes & Dishes: Find thousands of recipes online at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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In the KITCHEN Sunday, 28th November is ‘Stir-up Sunday,’ the day when families would gather around the kitchen table and prepare their Christmas pudding. Here’s our luxurious but traditional take on a festive favourite...

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS PUDDING Preparation Time: One hour. Cooking Time: Six hours.

75g semi-dried cherries • 2 x 75g dried cranberries • 150g raisins • 150g sultanas • Finely grated zest and juice of one orange ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp ground mixed spice • 200ml stout • 2 tbsp brandy, rum or Madeira, plus 75-100ml for serving • ½ x 250g pack Vegetable Suet • 50g self-raising flour • 100g fresh breadcrumbs 1 medium Bramley apple, peeled, cored and grated •225g dark brown soft sugar • 2 large eggs, beaten Place the dried fruit, orange zest and juice, spices, stout and brandy, rum or Madeira in a large bowl. Mix well, then cover with a clean tea towel and leave to stand in a cool place for at least six hours, or preferably overnight.

Once the fruit has plumped up, stir in the remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Transfer to a lightly greased 1.2-litre pudding basin or heatproof bowl, packing it down well to ensure it all fits and there are no gaps.

Cut two squares of baking parchment, about 20cm wider than the basin, then cut a piece of foil about the same size. Place the parchment squares on top of the foil, then fold the three layers in half. Fold one side back, making a crease about 2cm from the first fold, to make a pleat. This allows room for the pudding to expand during cooking. Place on top of the basin, foil side up.

Take a long length of string, fold it in half and wrap it around the basin to secure the parchment and foil. Thread the ends of the string through the loop, then pull tight and knot to secure. Use the excess string to make a handle across the centre of the bowl for lifting. Place a trivet or heatproof plate in the bottom of a large pan.

Place the pudding on top, then carefully pour boiling water into the pan to reach about halfway up the side of the basin.

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and bring the water to the boil. Reduce the heat and steam for six hours.

Check the water level regularly, topping up with boiling water as required. After six hours, turn off the heat and leave the pudding to cool completely. Use the string to lift it from the pan, then wipe down the outside of the bowl, undo the string and remove the foil and parchment. Cover the basin with a new layer of baking parchment, foil and string, then store in a cool, dark place for up to two months, until required.

To reheat, steam as directed above for two hours or remove the foil and heat in the microwave (850W) for about five minutes.

To serve, remove all foil and paper. Run a knife around the outside of the pudding and invert onto a serving plate.

To flambe, gently warm the brandy in a small pan, taking care not to allow it to boil as it may burst into flames.

Transfer into a warmed jug and pour over the pudding.

Carefully light the brandy with a lit taper. Once the flames have died down, cut into wedges and serve with your choice of brandy butter, brandy cream, fresh custard or cream. n

Recipes & Dishes: Find thousands of recipes online at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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Wine of the Month

There’s a rum going on, this November...

Blue Aurora English Blueberry Wine, Oundle, Northants 2020 £11.95 / 75cl / 11% ABV

Special edition sailors’ rum celebrates England’s maritime heritage...

Docks Beers has launched a new spiced rum called Stevedore.

The arrival of rum follows the success of the Grimsby based brewers’ Maritime Gin and is a collaboration with Lincoln’s Unconventional Distillery. It is billed as a special blend of spices; vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and finished with a fresh peel of seville orange and a pinch of sea salt to give a hint of the ocean. Stevedore spiced rum is sold in individual 70cl bottles for £32 and is immediately available to buy from the Docks Beers webshop, www.docksbeers.com. n

The Wine Cellar A STUNNING SAINT-ÉMILION, THREE BEAUJOLAIS IN TIME FOR NOVEMBER’S NOUVEAU DAY PLUS A COUPLE OF LOCAL TIPPLES TO MAKE BONFIRE NIGHT GO WITH A BANG...

NOUVEAU NOVEMBER: Say ‘salut’ to a brace of Beaujolais for Nouveau Day...

1. Moulin-à-Vents is one of the finest Beaujolais Crus, using the area’s Gamay grape to create a medium-bodied wine with cherries and berries galore on the palate. £26 / 75cl / 12% ABV.

2. Winner of a Decanter award in 2020, Domaine des Pierres Dorées’s Beaujolais has summer berries, sweet spices and a lighter than usual palate with light tannins and a distinct freshness. £10.29 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV.

Midnight is an intense, full bodied blueberry wine. Made in the same way as a red grape wine. Each bottle is made from 1.5kg of fresh blueberries.

The juice sits on the blueberry skins in the tank for six weeks to give the wonderful deep dark colour. This wine also has oak added to give the lovely soft smoky vanilla notes.

It is intense, oaky and beautifully rich. It goes great with steak, mushroom risotto or to accompany a cheese board. Produced by Lutton farm; a family run farm just outside the picturesque town of Oundle by the Long family.

Call 01832 273300 for stockists or see blueaurorawine.co.uk

Ovens Farm Wines Enjoy this award-winning English Bacchus...

This 2019 Bacchus pours a pale gold with aromas of summer hedgerow and cut grass. The palate yields more herbaceous character with notes of lime blossom, gooseberry and samphire; Dry, crisp, delicious finish of good length. Pair with contrasting flavours, such as goats cheese or oily fish, or complement with herby dishes particularly basil and coriander leaf.

Medal winning in Wine GB awards 2020. £14/bottle, buy online at ovensfarmvineyard.com.

3. And finally, this Fleurie AOC from Domaine de LeyreLoup is the result Jacques and Christophe Lanson’s labours; plum, cherries and floral notes. £14.39 / 75cl / 12.5% 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 FARMHOUSE WITH

CHARACTER

This month we’re enjoying taking a look around Manor Farmhouse, new to the market and brimming with character. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a character property in Barrowden beautifully presented inside and out...

Words: Rob Davis.

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“I wish my wife had shares in Farrow & Ball!” says the owner of this month’s house, Tim Blake. “I can just about name every shade on the colour chart. Jayne is the property’s very own interior designer but if I do say so myself she’s done an amazing job!”

Absolutely... we agree! Manor Farmhouse is beautifully presented, spacious, sitting on a perfectly-sized plot and in the lovely village of Barrowden… there can be very few people who wouldn’t be thrilled by the prospect of living in the C17th former farmhouse.

And the couple have certainly spent enough time in the house this year. Tim has worked from home during lockdown, running his company which specialises in creating software for distribution firms, juxtaposing Main: The property’s sitting room features a Stanley wood burner and lots of lovely exposed beams.

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his technological job with a life lived in this period property in one of Rutland’s most prestigious villages with its dry stone walls and limestone properties.

Nobody is sure of the exact age of the house but happily it has escaped a Grade II listing, meaning it’s a good deal easier to undertake work on the house. The couple did just that when they expanded the property back in 2000, giving it a sort of millennial treat.

The extension blends seamlessly onto the south wing of the house and provides an extra reception room that Tim uses as his library and study, plus the master bedroom suite with its en suite. Upstairs there are three more bedrooms, plus a family bathroom.

At one time the property had a thatched roof but this was replaced with a rather more practical Collyweston slate roof some

“Manor Farmhouse is beautifully presented, spacious, and located in the lovely village of Barrowden...” years ago. The couple themselves arrived at the property 24 years ago and replaced the old concrete floors with solid oak flooring and fossil stones. The couple reckon they spend the majority of their time in the farmhouse’s living kitchen, which comes as little surprise since there’s plenty of space to cook, dine and socialise together.

The gorgeous farmhouse kitchen itself was created by Suzi Farrell of Willowbrook Handbuilt Kitchens and features bespoke timber cabinetry painted in… well…

Farrow & Ball, obviously.

There’s a two oven gas-fired Aga Rayburn plus integrated appliances including a Bosch dishwasher and Liebherr larder fridge, as well as a double butler sink.

The couple also enlisted local master builder George Smith to utilise reclaimed local stone to create the property’s very pretty garden room. It’s one of three reception rooms in the home and just one of the rooms in the property that Tim says is surprisingly rich in natural light despite the property’s age, character, its beams and stonework.

Manor Farmhouse’s garden is the perfect English ‘cottage garden;’ it is lovely and mature, perhaps the perfect size to ensure a sufficient amount of garden to be able to do something with, but not so overwhelmingly large that you’re tied to gardening every weekend. >> 63

>> Again that’s all credit to Jayne, who is just as talented when it comes to designing the outside of the property as the inside spaces.

The enclosed, sunny and mature garden is sheer delight with a central lawn surrounded by well-stocked beds and sheltered by a high evergreen hedge, with a majestic Redwood tree at the far end.

With paved terracing from the garden room as well as from the double doors from the study, there are plenty of places to sit in the sun or shade; there is also a greenhouse and delightful garden shed. “Barrowden is not only a very pretty conservation village, but a super village to live in,� says Tim. Top: The garden room was added by the couple during their 24 year tenure. It overlooks a lovely garden with mature planting.

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“The church is lovely, there’s a village store and a little coffee shop and that helps to create a real sense of community.”

“The Exeter Arms, the village pub, was taken over just before lockdown and the new owners have made it very welcome.

We dined there the other week and it was superb… the new owners are doing a great job and definitely deserve the support that we know the village will give them.”

“We really do wish we could pick up the property – the whole village, in fact – and take it down south with us. Our sons have both left university and are now living and working much further south, so unfortunately we are forced to move to be a little closer to them, but we’ll miss Barrowden enormously.”

“It’s a very functional but peaceful residence, it’s well-maintained and perfect for anyone wanting a character home in the best village in Rutland. We are moving to be closer to family and it will be heartbreaking to leave such a fabulous home and superb village with so many friends.” n

MANOR FARMHOUSE CHAPEL LANE, BARROWDEN

Location: Barrowden; Oakham 13 miles, Uppingham 6.2 miles.

Style: 17th century limestone cottage with three receptions and four bedrooms.

Guide Price: OIEO £725,000.

Find Out More: Fine & Country, Seaton Grange Barn, Grange Lane, Uppingham LE15 9HT. Call 01780 750200 or see www.fineandcountry.com.

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FULL DESIGN SERVICE, ALL MANAGED UNDER ONE ROOF

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens • Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display • Over 60 appliances on show • Review our recent jobs on our website www.qksstamford.co.uk or visit our Facebook page • 25 large room settings in our extensive showroom The best quality, best value and best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

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

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

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

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01572 823389

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HOME FURNISHINGS

GOING GREY

GRACEFULLY Cool, calm and collected, this month we’re championing the softer side of silver and grey as a neutral palette for your home...

This Spread: Stocked by most local independent furniture retailers, Parker Knoll’s Wycombe is a Chesterfield-style sofa updated to reflect the art deco era, with scroll arms and deep upholstery.

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Each of our featured fabrics are stocked by the area’s leading independent interior designers...

Top: W Morris Strawberry Thief wallpaper in silver and stone colourway.

Above/Right: Jane Churchill’s Stellar, Moonbeam, Monty and Enigma ranges.

Right: Hoyland sofa from Duresta in velvet fabric.

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Natura fabrics by Clarke & Clarke, 34 colours including silver, blush and charcoal.

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Selection of fabrics

by Jane Churchill - Zelda, Monty, Fresno and Linear.

Above: Jane Churchill’s Atmosphere fabric in grey.

Right: W Morris Bachelor fabric, shown here in curtains and cloth.

Above/Right: Colefax & Fowler Byram linen in silver and ivory.

Havana and Nevada fabrics by Clarke & Clarke.

Local Suppliers...

Delcor Interiors, Stamford 01780 762579 www.delcor.co.uk.

Furleys, Rutland 01572 755539 www.furleys.co.uk.

H-Works, Stamford 01780 754605 www.hworksdesign.co.uk.

Hunters Interiors, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD, 01780 757946 huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

Lumison Lighting, Oakham, 01572 724600 www.lumisonlighting.co.uk.

Sarah Harding Interiors, Uppingham, 01572 823389 www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk. n

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Solar Solutions for Power or Heating Air & Ground Source Heat Pumps Home Charging for Electric Cars

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PDA KITCHENS

SIMPLY DELICIOUS

KITCHENS

If festive entertaining is set to become the nightmare before Christmas, now’s the time to get the ball rolling on a brand new space to provide state of the art cooking appliances, plenty of storage and room to stuff even the largest turkey...

Words: Rob Davis.

Fashion is ephemeral but style is timeless.

That’s why you’ll find some of the finest looking kitchens at PDA Kitchens, based in Peterborough, chosen thoughtfully enough to ensure they’ll look great for years to come.

The company is owned and run by Simon Jennings who established PDA Kitchens back in 1991 to help people choose designs that not only work well, but look great too.

Six years ago the company relocated to its current Werrington premises where you’ll find one of the city’s largest selections of kitchen displays allowing you to pull open cabinets, feel for yourself the quality of the ranges Simon has selected and really get the best impression possible of what your future kitchen can function.

“Christmas is a time which reveals how well or betrays how badly a kitchen has been planned,” says Simon. “We’ve installed hundreds of kitchens for clients and have a reputation in the area for the thought and common sense we put into our rooms as well as the creativity with which we plan them.”

“Modern kitchens are complicated spaces.

They have to be suitable for cooking, dining, socialising... and this year many families have used them as a school or office, during lockdown.”

“What’s more, installing a new kitchen in your home is one of the most expensive home improvements you can make but also one of the best ways to add not just financial but intrinsic value to your home when you come to put the property on the market... that’s why it’s important to get it right.”

“We typically work with budgets of £15,000 to £25,000 but kitchens are such diverse spaces that we can usually prove competitive with any firm offering quality and have designed and installed kitchens for much less and much more.”

“Our selection of kitchen styles range from handleless stone-effect designs that add a clean, sleek dimension to newer properties, to in-frame shaker kitchens which have a timeless look and work well in country properties.” >> Left: Clarendon is one of the company’s best-loved ranges - which is no surprise. With elegant in-frame shaker lines and the availability of 30 different colours including this sage shade, it’ll suit any home and look great year after year.

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KITCHENS

“And finally, we’re keen to ensure that your investment in a new kitchen is as hassle-free as possible. That’s why we always provide full project management so you have just a single point of contact...” >> “We’ve updated the look of these with painted finishes from calming neutral tones to sage greens and bolder blues for a striking look, which we especially love in properties with exposed brickwork or in rustic barn conversions with large expanses of white walls and soaring ceilings.”

“Ensuring a kitchen works well for the family involves getting to know clients and their needs and lifestyle, prior to designing a layout. It’s a collaborative design approach which helps to ensure plenty of storage and ensures that keen cooks are well-equipped with everything to hand.”

“Add to that a dimension of technology and you create a space that functions well; one that you’ll enjoy working in. In terms of appliances we specify brands that we know prove reliable from Neff to Siemens, Bosch and Miele with products like boiling water taps and integrated coffee machines to take clutter off your work surfaces or

steam ovens to ensure that whether you’re steaming vegetables, baking bread or cooking a Sunday roast your food is cooked evenly and retains beautiful texture.”

“And finally, we’re keen to ensure that your investment in a new kitchen is as hassle-free as possible.”

“That’s why we always provide full project management with experienced tradespeople we know and trust, so from building work to electrical, plumbing and gas installation, to the fitting of your kitchen right down to the decoration, tiling and flooring work, your kitchen is well planned, well-structured and installed without a fuss, providing you with just a single point of contact.”

“Creating a kitchen you’ll like takes skill and flair, but with our help, we’ll provide you with a room that looks great and works well year after year... after all, a kitchen is for life, not just for Christmas.” n

Find Out More: Simon Jenning’s PDA Kitchens is based on Papyrus Road, Peterborough PE4 5BH. Call 01733 894422 or see www.pdakitchens.co.uk.

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Peterborough’s Premier Kitchen Design & Installation Specialists...

Papyrus Road, Peterborough PE4 5BH JUST ALONG FROM THE BMW & AUDI MOTOR DEALERSHIPS

01733 894422 | www.pdakitchens.co.uk 80

Sh a Sh nd ow op C r o o o p o ffe m en e ...

Make your home the best it can be

At Hunters we aim to reflect your individual taste and to ensure that all details work in harmony with the rest of your home. Whether you prefer florals or stripes, traditional or contemporary, bold or subdued, you can choose from a wide range of paints, wallpaper, fabrics and John Sankey furniture.

Serving excellent coffee, delicious cakes and light lunches.

Open Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 4 pm.

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

Call 01780 757946 or pop in for a visit, we would love to see you www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

Showroom and Coffee Shop Open Monday - Saturday 9.30 am - 4.00 pm

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NATURAL STRUCTURES

Naturally Cool It’s hard to believe, but just over a year ago, this cool contemporary home was just a tired old barn standing on farmland on the Rutland and Leicestershire border.

Its transformation is down to Simon Lewington and the team at Natural Structures...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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“Quite aside from the fact that the existing structure itself was huge its location was great.

We felt it had great potential as the starting point for a spacious, modern family home...”

DRIVE AROUND Rutland & Leicestershire and it won’t be long before you come across unloved old farm buildings which have seen better days. Even in their formative years these were utilitarian structures, intended to be practical, not pretty.

“The owner and I both loved the building and saw its potential right from the start,” says Simon. “From a planning perspective it would have been difficult to gain permission to remove the building and start again with a conventional development.”

But where the rest of us see function, Simon Lewington sees form... and potential. That’s because he heads up Natural Structures, the Leicestershire-based design-led building firm which specialises in the creation of unique buildings with the latest building methods combined with materials like French oak, glass, steel and stone to create beautiful buildings from concept to completion.

“Quite aside from the fact that the existing structure itself was huge, its location was great. We felt it had great potential as the starting point for a spacious, modern family home.”

Traditionally when we’ve shown off Simon’s talent, it’s been to demonstrate his team’s ability to create oak-framed extensions, usually on period properties, to add modern usable spaces to older buildings, typically in conservation areas and adjacent to listed properties - in other words, achieving modern structures whilst ensuring these remain in keeping with their surroundings.

This project, though, along with two other similar projects now complete, is designed to show how Simon and his team can create an entire structure and a stunning contemporary home in even the most utilitarian setting.

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“Because it was an old farm building we were able to achieve planning permission on the basis of the Permitted Development rules (known as ‘Class Q’) which apply to rural buildings.”

“One of the many parameters that the existing building must fit with in is the rule that stipulates that the property created must be of the same footprint and utilise the existing structural elements of the building.

Suits me!”

“The underlying structure was a concrete portal frame, which meant there were no material intrusions into the large vaulted ceiling space. However it also meant that the roof structure had to be lighter than those created with conventional building materials.” >>

Natural Structures created this stunning contemporary property from an old barn, retaining the concrete skeleton and augmenting the existing structure with Super Insulated Panels and French oak.

“The client wanted to keep the concrete skeleton of the building exposed and make the most of the building’s clean lines and pared back look...”

Main: The property’s clean lines were enhanced with black metal doors and windows for contrast, plus large expanses of glass.

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“That plays into our strengths as we have a keen understanding of the structural demands of these utilitarian farm buildings. The roof structure we designed was well within the advised weight calculated in pounds per square inch, despite having no fewer than 11 layers.”

“We stripped away much of the existing construction, so now the property is created with modern energy efficient equivalent SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) that provide excellent insulation.”

“Together with the lightweight roof design, concrete portal trusses, oak-clad roof, and the bespoke windows engineered especially for us, the whole structure is strong, light and doesn’t compromise the architectural drama or the practicality of the huge space. It also remains warm in winter and energy efficient - despite its size and open plan nature - with just underfloor heating required in the very coldest months.”

Right: The property has three bedrooms, with dressing rooms and en suites including this master en suite with its indulgent round bath.

“The main structural element was also the main visual element, that being the concrete skeletal trusses which have purposefully been left exposed, this makes most of the building’s clean lines and pared back look with large expanses of windows providing natural light, polished concrete floors and no skirting boards or architraves.

Even door handles were hidden to avoid them breaking up the property’s clean lines. Its location provides a 180° panoramic view of the surrounding farmland and natural light, which is another aspect of its success.”

“We styled the property with powder coated metal doors and window frames, a monochrome colour palette with black, white and natural oak, plus neutral linen fabrics to diffuse hard light.

The whole house is around 460m2, and took less than a year to create. It has four bedrooms with en-suites and dressing rooms plus a separate utility, open plan living space and a separate snug and additional mezzanine reception room to the first floor.”

“I believe a space can be designed in such a way as to stifle or to inspire and I wouldn’t want to create a space that doesn’t feel special.

What’s more, the way we’ve minimised material choices, used the latest construction methods along with contemporary materials means we’ve managed to ensure continuity through minimal design.

It has far better environmental credentials and offers more space than a conventional barn conversion. The whole building works structurally and practically whilst feeling inspiring and beautiful.

The client expectations were exceeded and we’re proud of it too!” n Find Out More: Natural Structures specialises in creating unique buildings with traditional materials and building methods. For a free no obligation chat about your project call 01858 545518 or see www.natural-structures.co.uk.

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Sales & Commissions www.groombridgesculpture.co.uk 07775 992056

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STAMFORD STONE

MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME WITH

STAMFORD STONE Words: Kate Cadman

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It’s the practical, stylish and on-trend way to turn your house into a home and ensure it looks great prior to Christmas and ready for winter. Employing natural stone on your floors, walls and everywhere else will achieve a unique and special look, and choosing from a huge range just became easier with Stamford Stone’s new e-commerce site!

Stamford Stone at Home is celebrating the launch of its sparkling new e-commerce website which could provide the answer to all your last minute woes about getting your home décor Christmas-ready.

Along with the ability to buy stunning natural stone flooring, paving and fireplaces online, you can now browse a new, bold and exclusive range of on-trend decorative natural stone, ceramic and porcelain wall and floor tiles from tiling specialists, Ca’ Pietra.

The handpicked edit by Stamford Stone at Home includes over 70 handcrafted designs in exquisite colours - all inspired by the beauty of nature. The tiling collection has been chosen to complement Stamford Stone at Home’s natural stone flooring range.

“We’re excited to be part of Ca’ Pietra’s trusted network of hand-picked retailers,” explains Luciana Ciarla, Stamford Stone at Home’s Showroom Sales Manager.

“As a fellow family-owned British business, they hold many of the same values as Stamford Stone at heart, and we’re looking forward to a long, successful partnership,” “We love the bright designs and variety of tiling textures. They work brilliantly with our own stone fireplaces and flooring and together these products will bring elegance, permanence, quality and warmth to any home setting - traditional or contemporary.”

“And choosing natural stone is a practical choice; not only does it always looks incredible wherever it’s used, it can add value to your home and quality to your life in so many ways. The qualities of stone are that it is incredibly hardwearing - and actually improves with age!”

“It’s also easy to clean and keep dust-free, perfect for households with allergies and as a natural conductor of heat - it works well with modern, underfloor heating systems.”

“It’s also really unique. Every single piece is different in colour and markings, making it extra special to have in your home,” adds Luciana. n

n Transform a space in your home into a design statement with Ca’ Pietra’s stunning tiles pared with natural stone flooring. Browse, buy or order samples online at www.ssathome.co.uk. If you’d rather view any of the collections up close and personal, call to book a showroom appointment with Luciana on 01780 740970.

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NATURE

TIME FOR

BED We can all agree that 2020 has not got to plan. And it isn’t over yet, with the colder months just around the corner. Little wonder many animals are this month choosing to give the rest of 2020 a miss and sleep through the winter… sounds like a good plan to us!

Words: Rob Davis.

AS THE NIGHTS DRAW IN and temperatures drop, this is the month I’ll be curling up in front of a log fire with a mug of Horlicks and a decent book. I’m not the only one, either.

November is the month that a number of our native species enter hibernation or torpor… and incidentally, there’s a difference between the two.

In a state of hibernation, animals like hedgehogs enter a state of inactivity, slowing their heart rate and breathing, lowering both their body temperature and their overall metabolism to preserve their energy reserves.

Of course they do wake up periodically to search out food or to toilet, and will also awaken if their bodies detect that the temperature has dropped to such an extent that they are in danger of freezing to death… their bodies will prevent ice crystals forming in their blood.

Only hedgehogs, dormice and bats truly enter a state of hibernation. Rabbits, shrew and mice, meanwhile, enter a state of torpor, which is a more temporary state and one which appears an involuntary state dictated by hormonal changes and an animal’s response to shorter periods of daylight. In a state of torpor, an animal’s metabolism slows to around 5% of its normal rate.

Helping Out the ‘Hogs The area’s rural hedgehog population has halved since 2000 according to figures by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. Creating a hibernaculum in your garden can help, but at least check piles of leaves and bonfires before setting light to them to prevent scorching a poor hedgehog’s bottom. Providing food – dog food or cat food, not bread and milk – for around October will help hedgehogs to build up their fat reserves prior to hibernation which usually begins in November and lasts until mid-March. >> 96

Let sleeping hogs lie; this month our spiky friends will curl up into a ball to sleep out the winter... given how rotten 2020 has been, we’re tempted to do likewise!

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>> Bats take to the Bedroom

The winter months are the most common time to discover bats in your belfry.

They usually begin to hibernate slightly earlier than hedgehogs, in October. The UK has 17 breeding species of bat, the most common of which is the small Pipistrelle, which is about 5cm in length. Because bats can’t burrow or make holes to hide in, they tend to roost in existing hiding places, with barns and attics particular favourites.

If you’re embarking on home improvement projects during this time, be careful not to disturb them. And if you’ve space in your garden, a bat box will prove welcoming to the animals as long as your box is around five metres off the ground, sheltered to prevent damp, draft-proof and as long as the box receives a bit of sunlight during the day to warm it up. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s illegal to open up a bat box once it’s occupied and that disturbing bats in your attic, roof or barn is also illegal.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Reptiles possess the ability to hibernate in a particular fashion, known as brumation, specific to cool-blooded animals. It’s observed by turtles, tortoises, snakes and similar animals. Frogs and newts will also hibernate at the bottom of ponds, but underneath a layer of ice, decomposing leaf litter and plant matter can release toxic gases which are harmful to the creatures, which is why it’s important to keep ponds clear of detritus and to prevent ice from building up.

Smashing ice isn’t a good idea either, since the shock wave from doing so can upset fish and shards of ice can damage liners. Floating two or three tennis balls on top of the water - which will move continually over the surface - can help to prevent ice from forming.

Insects in Winter

Insects, especially those in wetland environments, sometimes hibernate in larvae form. Honey bees, too, huddle together to make use of the collective warmth of the swarm to combat chilly temperatures. Most butterfly species, says the Woodland Trust, spend winter in the larval stage, but some species hibernate as adults. These include the brimstone, peacock and comma. >>

Main: Seeing red?

The native red squirrel is usually less visible in winter.

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HIBERNATION

“Most butterfly species, says the Woodland Trust, spend winter in the larval stage, but some species hibernate as adults. These include the brimstone, the peacock and comma butterfly...”

>> Dormice on Diets

Late October also sees the hibernation of the dormouse, which slow their heartbeat & breathing and remain in their nest until April.

Their bodies, during hibernation, remain at just above freezing and the creatures will lose half their body weight during winter, and so make gluttons of themselves towards the end of summer, growing to twice their usual size in preparation for a winter nap.

Badgers Sett off to Sleep

Rather than hibernating, badgers enter successive cycles of torpor, usually lasting for 29 hours. This period can vary though and badgers can remain in their setts when conditions are really cold, remaining there for days. Badgers can mate at any time of the year, but January and February are common months – perhaps because there’s little of interest to badgers on TV during these months. They usually emerge from

their cycles of torpor in March, but cubs will remain underground until April or May. Red & Grey Squirrels

Interestingly, there’s a slight difference between the activities of the native red and nefarious invading grey squirrel.

Grey squirrels were introduced the UK in the early 1800s and established their first wild colonies after escaping around 1876.

They now number around 2.5m compared to around 140,000 red squirrels.

Red squirrels prepare for winter by storing surplus food, says the Woodland Trust, and are therefore less visible. The grey, on the other hand remains out and about during winter, albeit reducing the number of hours it remains active.

Both are crepuscular and spend time around other colonies in larger dreys, advantaging themselves of the warmth of other squirrels and using their own tails to keep warm. n

The Common Dormouse.

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1

2

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- 2021 WEDDINGS -

Find The Dress

8

4

1. Wendy, Ronald Joyce: Fit and flare, floral lace overlay.

2. Geometric, Lillian West: All over geometric lace fit and flare dress with plunge V-neck.

3. Jennifer Wren: Ballgown style with an off-the-shoulder neckline, long sleeves and an illusion lace bodice.

4. Olivia Rose, Elderflower: Modern mermaid style with a V-neck and lace waist band.

5. Winona, Silhouette: Classic A-line with V-neckline.

6. Lillian West: Long sleeve crepe romper with lace detail and slit.

7. Countess, Romantica: Fairytale ballgown style with illusion lace shoulder straps, a lace bodice.

8. Mori Lee, Alessia: Fit and flare dress with frosted embroidery. n Local Stockists: www.ronaldjoyce.com, www.justinalexander.com (Lillian West), www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk (Jennifer Wren, Olivia Rose, Romantica), www.morilee.com.

7

6

5

Save the Wedding, Change the Date Last minute availability for 2020 weddings, subject to government guidance.

T: 01572 787 016 E: weddings@staplefordpark.com www.staplefordpark.com/weddings Stapleford Park Country House Hotel, Stapleford, Leicestershire, LE14 2EF

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Belle & The Peacock’s Feather...

10% OFF NEW DESIGNER BALL GOWNS FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY APPOINTMENTS ONLY - WE ARE A COVID-19 SAFE BOUTIQUE

79 High Street, Lincoln LN5 8AA Tel: 07728 981568 www.bellemode.co.uk • belleandthepeacocksfeather@mail.com

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LET’S GET

COMFY Oakham’s home-grown fashion brand Lands’ End reveals its new autumn winter ranges, with all you need to stay snug in style...

Women’s Faux Fur Hooded Down Coat, from £185, 519027.

Women’s Squall 3-in-1 Waterproof Coat.

From £205. 502948

Women’s Fleece Jacket.

From £45. 500872

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Women’s Down Gilet. from £50. 518678. Denim Jacket. £75. 499147. Insulated Duck Boots. £54. 511645.

- FASHION -

Top/Left: Women's Faux Fur Hooded Down Coat in Rich Red, £185, 519027. Top/Right: Men’s Insulated Hybrid Parka, £200, 519754 Bottom/Left: Men’s Squall Parka, from £160, 518640. Bottom/Right: Men's Down Jacket in Radiant Navy, £100, 518638.

Lands’ End is based on Lands’ End Way in Oakham, where the firm has an Outlet Store.

For full details of all the styles shown and many more, visit www.landsend.co.uk, don’t forget to use your code (OCT40) to get 40% off full price styles online (not valid in the Outlet Store).

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AUTUMN BEAUTY

‘Round Midnight AS THE NIGHTS DRAW IN WE’RE TAKING THIS MONTH’S BEAUTY AND MAKEUP TIPS FROM LUXURY COSMETICS BRANDS WHO ARE AT THEIR BEST ‘ROUND MIDNIGHT

1. Spend autumn and winter with Hermês...

Hermês presents two scents for winter in the form of Èpice Marine and Cologne Hermês.

The former is a stunning autumnal scent with a spicy fragrance reminiscent of cumin, hazelnut, vetiver, cinnamon and oakmoss.

Woody and invigorating, it retails at John Lewis for £189/100ml.

Meanwhile, Cologne Hermês is spicy and dry, with lemon, black tea and Guaiac wood on the nose, retailing for £81/100ml. n

2. Dr Hauschka lip colour...

Just what the doctor ordered... 18 intense colours for your lips this autumn, courtesy of Dr Hauschka. Rather than painting over your lips, each one of these 18 shades blends seamlessly with their natural luminosity. The formulation combines mineral pigments, medicinal plant extracts, oils and waxes to provide intense colour with a soft sheen too, Amaryllis shade shown, £20/4.1g.

3. Five star mascara...

MAC’s Extended Play Gigablack Lash mascara is a good investment for those seeking 16 smudge-free hours of wear.

A lightweight curling, lifting Mascara in a glossy shade of Endless Black, £17/5.7g

5. Autumn treat or a great gift...

Dr Hauschka’s Radiant Rose set is an ideal autumn pick-me-up, and a great gift idea for Christmas.

The set comprises 30ml of Rose Day Cream, Soothing Cleansing Milk and Facial Toner, to calm and hydrate skin. The brand is renowned for its natural and organic products and use of medicinal plants, £30.50.

6. A great solution after a brush with autumn...

A Tangle Teezer is a handbag essential this season, with blustery autumn winds set to play havoc with your hair. This particular example, as well as looking sharp in its blue ombre, is more compact than the original and has a click-on cover. Use wet or dry to de-tangle and smooth your hair without causing damage, £14.

4. Helping hand...

Autumn and winter are tough on hands, so invest in some protection courtesy of Floris, whose Chypress Luxury Hand Lotion has sweet almond and jojoba to soothe and nourish skin, £24/250ml.

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

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ALL IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME Suitable for those with Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, stroke, brain injury and chronic pain conditions.

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MOTORS

FIRST CLASS It may look a little less ostentatious than a sports car or a hulking SUV with a six-figure price tag, but seen here is one of the most important cars in the world. Why? Because it’s the new Mercedes S-Class, progenitor of the next generation of in-car tech...

Words: Rob Davis.

IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO OVERSTATE the importance of the car you see here. It may be a fairly discreet looking saloon, but the Mercedes S-Class is the car that the whole industry - indeed, the whole world - looks to in order to gauge the future of motoring.

The last generation of S-Class debuted ‘magic suspension’ which uses cameras to detect then mitigate broken road surfaces in conjunction with its suspension and dampers. It also introduced active night vision assist and even heated armrests.

The S-Class was the car which either debuted or at least popularised features like anti-lock brakes, ESP, power steering, airbags, adaptive cruise control, voice control, and night vision.

Now, there’s a new generation of S-Class and the whole motoring industry was intrigued to see what new technical offerings would move the car on at its world premier in September.

Whatever you see on the S-Class today will become standard on all cars within a decade or so; it’s the firm’s flagship, and the model which gains all of the firm’s latest innovations before other models.

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Highlights of the new model include rear airbags, rear wheel steering and greater autonomous driving technology which will be ‘switched on’ as legislation permits in each territory the car is sold in. >>

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Rear wheel steering assists in reducing the car’s turning circle by two metres - handy in a city or car park - and the car will park itself, remotely, after the driver has climbed out of the car.

The enhanced Distronic adaptive cruise control, meanwhile, will allow the driver to completely let go of the steering wheel on what’s described as ‘suitable sections of the motorway’ taking over acceleration, braking and lane keeping, even slowing down for sweeping bends.

Another new safety feature is E-Active Body Control suspension, which upon detecting an imminent side impact, raises the car by up to eight centimetres to spread the impact and protect the driver and passengers.

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“With ever greater autonomous driving functionality and more technology than ever, the Mercedes S-Class represents the future of motoring; it’s luxurious, economical and smart...”

From launch the car will be available with a 3.0V6 petrol engine in two states of tune, badged the S450 and S500. S350d and S400d diesel units will be available too, whilst an S580e model will combine a 3.0V6 petrol engine with an electric motor and plug-in hybrid range of 62 miles.

Front passengers enjoy the latest version of MBUX, Mercedes’s voice control and tablet control system, also providing an integrated ‘wellness’ system which integrates fragrance,

mood lighting and climate control functions to relax, energise and so on.

The new S-Class is an evolution of the executive saloon, and though 4x4 vehicles reign supreme in our part of the world, commuters and those who live on the motorway should definitely take a second look. With ever greater autonomous driving functionality and more technology than ever, the S-Class represents the future of motoring; luxurious, economical, smart. n

Executive Saloons: Perfect for motorway miles...

Rolls Royce Ghost, £208,000: The Ghost is Rolls Royce’s smallest model... but small in this instance is relative.

There’s nothing dinky about its 5,549mm length, or its whopping 6.75 litre V12 engine. The last version of the Ghost used BMW 7-Series underpinnings but this model is all new, right down to the aluminium chassis.

Described as ‘post-opulence,’ the car has four wheel drive and four wheel steering, just like the S-Class. n

Bentley Flying Spur £168,300: More modest than Bentley’s Mulsanne flagship, the firm’s Flying Spur sits somewhere between an S-Class and a Rolls Royce Ghost in its price point. With a cabin lifted from the firm’s Continental GT we actually think it’s more soulful than an S-Class and more attractive inside and out than the Ghost. It’s hand-made in Britain, with a 6.0W12 engine, though a 4.0V8 engined model or plug-in hybrid model may soon be added to the range which will offer better value and just as much usable power. n

MERCEDES S-CLASS S350D Price: £80,000 (est, on sale Dec).

Drivetrain: 3.0 V6 twin-turbo, diesel with 9-speed auto gearbox.

Performance: 0-62 mph: 6.4 seconds. Top Speed: 155mph.

Economy: 42mpg, 176g/km CO2.

Equipment: Leather upholstery, electric heated seats, auto parking, MBUX voice control and nav, powered boot, cruise control, parking sensors and camera.

Porsche Taycan: If on the other hand you’re in the market for an executive saloon which is a bit more left field and certainly more engaging, Porsche’s Taycan is essentially an all-electric version of its Panamera saloon.

At £140,000, its not cheap and specification isn’t quite up to Bentley or S-Class level, but the silent, powerful and effortless drivetrain yields 254 miles and a 60mph time of just 2.8 seconds. Range topping versions provide all wheel drive by utilising a motor per axle. n

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MOTORS

The Story of Autobiography Priced at £55,000, the range-topping Range Rover Evoque Autobiography encroaches on the price point of the firm’s Velar, Discovery and Defender models.

But the price is justifiable, says Rob Davis, giving his verdict on the new model...

Less than two years after launching the new Evoque, Land Rover has already given the car a facelift, with a new Autobiography model and the firm’s new plug-in hybrid engine taking the cost of the most expensive Evoque to over £55,000.

With the firm’s Velar starting out at £45,000, the Discovery at £48,000 and even the new Defender 90 providing less expensive at £40,000, that makes the top of the range Evoque seem quite expensive... doesn’t it?

Well, any car in the firm’s portfolio will seat at least five adults in comfort, and at over half a metre shorter than a full-sized Range Rover, the Evoque will prove much easier to manoeuvre and park around town.

What’s more, the Evoque’s plug-in hybrid drivetrain with its all-wheel drive and

Terrain Response system provides a decent 540nm torque, a more than brisk 0-60mph time of 6.1 seconds, a top speed of 132mph, and WLTP economy of 179mph if you keep the car charged up from the mains, with CO2 emissions below 40mpg meaning tax savings if you run the car as a company vehicle.

Range Rover Evoque Price: £52,110.

Engine: 1.5 litre V4 plus electric motor.

Performance: 0-60mpg 6.1 secs, top speed 132mph.

Interior: Leather, sat nav, heated seats, cruise and climate control. n

All that adds up to a car which offers great performance on-road, impressive ability off-road, low urban running costs and compact dimensions. The icing on the cake?

In Autobiography trim the car is absolutely loaded with equipment from adaptive cruise control to heated and cooled leather seats to 360° camera and panoramic roof... which just goes to show that despite its price, the Evoque can offer much in the way of value and should prove a joy to live with. n

MOTORS

A Fab Ferrari...

CLASSIC FERRARI 250 RECREATED BY GTO ENGINEERING IS A ‘60s LEGEND

FERRARI An original Ferrari GT250 recently sold for a cool £52m... making it the most expensive classic car ever sold.

If you appreciate the beauty but not the price tag, GTO Engineering based in the UK may have the answer. The firm can hand-build a replica 1960 Ferrari 250 GT in around 18 months to your personal specification, complete with a hand-built

Columbo V12 engine and four or five speed manual gearbox.

Investing over 300 hours in each car, the replicas sit on 16” wheels, utilise disc brakes and are available in a range of period colours and liveries.

You can even specify air conditioning, sat nav and a stereo system, depending on whether you’re a purist.

The cost? Around £850,000 depending on specification. n

Kia’s flagship 4x4 on sale

TREMENDOUS VALUE AND SATISFIED DRIVERS LIKELY FOR KIA’S LAVISHLY EQUIPPED SEVEN-SEAT ALL WHEEL DRIVE

Volvo sales up last month by impressive 7.2% worldwide...

VOLVO With most of the motor industry reeling from lost sales during Covid, Volvo has reported an impressive 7.2% increase in sales during August. In the first eight months of the year, Volvo Cars sold 383,492 cars, down 13.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. August saw year on year sales up by 7.2%, sales in Europe reaching 17,458 cars in August. The XC60 mid-size SUV was the top-selling model for the company, followed by the XC40 and the XC90. n

Kia can do little wrong at the moment. Its reputation has rocketed from anonymous to very well-regarded in the past couple of years and its new Sorento 4x4 shows why. Top end models cost below £47,000 but provide all wheel drive, seven seats, a huge boot, panoramic roof, heated and ventilated leather seats and adaptive cruise control plus a 2.2 diesel with automatic gearbox that blends economy and performance well, towing 2,500kg and achieving 42mpg.

A plug-in hybrid will join the range later in the year but for now the existing diesel Sorento looks like a great car to us. n KIA

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief RELIABILITY

THE MOST AND LEAST RELIABLE UK CARS BRANDS...

What Car? has surveyed over 13,000 drivers of cars up to five years old to determine the reliability of new vehicles.

The magazine awarded each maker a reliability score based on the occurrence and cost - if any - of a repair, plus the time taken to fix a defect.

The most common faults were non-engine electrics (27%), bodywork (19%) and engine electrics (13%).

Rank Brand

Score

1.

Lexus

98.7%

2.

Mitsubishi

97.9%

3.

Toyota

97.7%

4.

Mini

96.8%

5.

Skoda

96.4%

6.

Hyundai

96.3%

7.

Kia

95.9%

8.

Honda

95.3%

=9.

BMW

95.2%

=9

Mazda

95.2%

11.

Alfa Romeo 94.6%

=12.

Fiat

94.5%

=12.

Subaru

94.5%

=14.

Dacia

94.4%

=14.

Suzuki

94.4%

=16.

Citroën

93.8%

=16.

Volvo

93.8%

18.

Ford

93.7%

19.

Seat

93.6%

20.

Volkswagen 93.2%

21.

Jaguar

91.8%

=22.

Audi

91.5%

=22.

MG

91.5%

=22.

Porsche

91.5%

25.

Peugeot

91.1%

26.

Mercedes

91.0%

=27.

Nissan

90.1%

=27.

Vauxhall

90.1%

29.

Tesla

88.6%

30.

Renault

87.6%

31.

Land Rover

78.2%

n See www.whatcar.com.

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RENBRAC RENEWABLES

10 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ON

RENEWABLE ENERGY Next month Renbrac Renewables in Oakham will celebrate its first anniversary.

The firm provides a single point of contact for a free, no obligation chat about renewable energy as well as the ability to purchase technologies and enjoy project management and installation of energy efficient technology. This month we’re answering the 10 most common questions surrounding renewable energy with Michael and Antoinette Robertson…

Words: Rob Davis.

1. Renewable energy means solar panels and wind turbines doesn’t it?

It’s a catch-all term for a number of technologies. Most common for homeowners and businesses are the different types of solar panels (e.g.: PV, thermal…) of which we mainly install Solar PV, since they’re the most versatile, providing electricity but with a small amount of additional equipment, hot water, too.

We also provide solutions for air-source and ground-source heat pumps which replace fossil fuel boilers (gas, oil, LPG, coal) with super-efficient electric systems which meet all of the heat and hot water requirements of the home. Wind turbines are best kept for grid scale power generation where they have been hugely successful in lowering the carbon emissions of the National Grid.

2. I’m not building a new home, though?

Renewable technology can be easily incorporated into existing properties and new properties alike, there are so many options now, even solutions for properties in conservation areas or for installation in listed buildings; we are used to dealing with all types of buildings.

3. So what are the main benefits?

Once you have installed your system it will be generating power that you can use in any way that suits you, reducing your dependence on the National Grid and slashing your carbon footprint. We can design systems to provide electricity, hot water, electric car charging, heating and we can even build in back up power systems for people who live in areas that suffer from blackouts.

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Although there is no longer a Government backed Feed-in-Tariff to pay back for any power you generate, there are tariffs from energy providers that do this and we can advise what will work best for our clients.

So although the FIT has diminished, the technology has improved, prices have come down as the technology has proliferated, and renewable energy solutions benefit the homeowner more.

300%-400% efficient as opposed to the most energy efficient combi-boilers on the market which are only around 90% efficient – but these cost a little more, with solutions from around £10,000.

Today, the technology is designed around keeping more of the energy you generate in your home and around using batteries or power diverting devices to automatically and intelligently direct power where you need it, at the times you use it.

5. Is the aim to be self-sufficient with energy use?

4. What’s the investment, when will it be repaid?

Every home is different, everyone’s energy use is different. That’s why we undertake a careful evaluation of each customer’s circumstances to give a more accurate answer in each case.

As a rule of thumb our technologies repay the consumer a return on their investment of 5 to 10 % depending on whether they install just panels or add additional technologies like batteries, water heating devices and EV chargers. A typical Solar PV system for the home starts from approximately £6,000, with additional equipment to create hot water around £1,000 and a battery system to store energy around £5,000.

Electric Car Chargers cost from £600 upwards fully installed depending on the model and whether you qualify for a grant, and your running costs after that are incredibly low. Ground and air-source heat pumps are incredibly efficient –

They do however qualify for the Renewable Heat Incentive which will pay back for seven years after it is installed (20 years for non-domestic), recovering much of the cost.

Our clients come to us with different expectations and different demands. Some want to save money, some want to be ‘green’ and some want to go ‘off-grid.’ It is possible to reduce your dependence on the grid but remain connected to it – known as ‘grid-tied.’ This has benefits like being able to distribute energy back to the grid and draw it at peak times. Even mitigating your energy use, though, can be hugely beneficial to your pocket as well as the planet.

6. How can I evaluate any successes?

Happily, smart meters and smartphones have made it possible to monitor the energy use of your household, and you can also use the National Grid ESO app to see the whole country’s energy use. The UK as a whole is moving towards renewable energy, and it’s easier than ever to gain peace of mind and financial advantage knowing where your energy comes from.

7. I’m thinking about getting an electric car – can you help?

Definitely. We actively encourage people to talk to us as soon as they start thinking about an EV as there is a lot of information out there but it’s sometimes confusing and contradictory. We can help demystify the jargon

and provide all the free advice you need to make an informed decision that best suits your needs. In our office we have examples of some of the Home Charging units we install and we run an electric vehicle ourselves, so we speak from experience when we say that the technology has never been easier, more affordable or more beneficial, especially for company car drivers as there is 0% Benefit In Kind (BIK) tax rate for electric cars which can save thousands of pounds a year.

8. Can I run an electric car off my solar panels?

Yes! And there are thousands of people driving around using power generated from their own rooftops. Depending on the car and the property we can create solutions for those who want the benefits of fossil fuel-free motoring. There are more and more plug-in hybrid or fully electric cars coming onto the market and the latter are especially impressive, with far fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel engines and generous ranges.

9. Why did you start Renbrac Renewables?

Simply because we believe in the technology.

We’ve a nine-year old son and we believe it’s ethical to contribute to reducing our carbon footprint now and for future generations.

Clients tell us they want to be greener, but if your justification is economical not ethical, it’s still a good investment. The technology – as well as the industry – has never been more trustworthy and has never had the quality or such a good choice of technology to make available to consumers.

10. Do I need to know anything when I see you?

Absolutely not. In the first instance our role is to provide a non-salesy, no obligation discussion which will dispel any myths, evaluate your circumstances, and give good, honest, practical advice on what’s available.

Any products we supply to customers thereafter are only as a consequence of our knowledge and experience and the good advice that we offer – we don’t need to ‘sell’ to people because the benefits of renewable energy speak for themselves.

That’s why we’re happy to invest as much time as you want, free of charge and with no obligation, to ensure you fully understand what’s available. n Find Out More: Renbrac Renewables provides free, no-obligation advice on all matters around renewable energy. Visit Renbrac Renewables Ltd in Victoria Hall, Oakham, LE15 6AH. Alternatively call 01572 729538 or see www.renbrac.co.uk.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial Flexibility with Equity Release Mortgages Utilising the equity in your home can provide you with cash for home improvements, retirement projects or help you pay off a current mortgage without surrendering ownership of your home...

Enjoying the fruits of your labour is important especially in later life or post-retirement. With a population living longer and living in better health though, as a generation, many older folk are outliving their pensions and investments.

If, however, you’ve equity in your property, BCM Wealth Management in Stamford can help you explore the possibility of releasing that equity for home improvement projects, to fund care or to help the younger generation get a foothold on the property ladder... it can even be used to fund the holiday of a lifetime.

“Some people think you have to move out of the property once you’ve undertaken equity release which isn’t the case.”

“You can stay in the property, sell it (although this may incur an early repayment charge and the loan will need to be repaid or transferred to a new property which meets the lenders criteria), or move into a care environment, depending on your future needs.”

“All equity release products have year-on-year forecasts to show what you still owe, and we have a comprehensive range of lenders each of which has been subject to St. James’s Place’s due diligence processes.”

Equity release is a subject some have viewed with scepticism in the past, either because some providers have employed vigorous sales techniques, because of the comparatively high interest rates, or because of confusion with the products available.

“Your property is often your biggest asset, it’s usually an appreciating asset and it’s usually the one to which you’re most attached.”

Happily, BCM’s mortgage and equity release specialist Jamie Gibson can provide advice on the subject, with a range of mortgage providers offering equity release solutions, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that BCM Wealth Management is a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.

“Inheritance must also be considered, releasing equity from you home will reduce the amount you are able to leave as a legacy.”

“There are some misconceptions, owing to the way the products have been sold in the past,” says Jamie. “There are a number of different products available and providing they are the right thing for the client they can help solve a number of issues, allowing a much more comfortable retirement. Equity Release can provide a tax-free lump sum, smaller sums with more in reserve or even an income.”

“It’s a powerful means of releasing capital and for that reason, utilising the equity in your home can also mean the difference between downsizing to release equity and remaining in your home.”

“Equity release is therefore potentially very useful once you’ve had responsible and trustworthy advice. They’re one of a number of services and products that we offer at BCM Wealth Management. We also offer advice for first time buyers’, cover buy to let mortgages and commercial mortgages.

“That’s in addition to our range of pension and investment planning and wealth management products we offer as an integral part of holistic approach to wealth management.” n

This is a lifetime mortgage or home reversion plan. To understand the features and risks associated with such products, please ask for a personalised illustration.

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

BCM Wealth Management offers a comprehensive range of first charge mortgages from across the market, which lenders make available to mortgage intermediaries. Commercial and some buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

BCM Wealth Management Ltd is an appointed representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and service, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

BCM Wealth Management is based on Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL. Call 01780 437500.

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