Rutland Pride January 2023

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Thank you so much! This month I’ve had the pleasure of venturing out into Rutland and Stamford to award some of the county’s best restaurants, pubs and food producers with our annual Good Food Awards titles. It’s only possible for me to do so because our readers have been so keen to vote for their favourite local businesses, and to give us their unbiased opinions on where to enjoy dining out, a long lunch or comfortable accommodation. It really has been a privilege to visit the winners, who have themselves been touched by our readers’ recommendations, so we hope you’ll enjoy seeing the smiling faces of our winners and we hope you’ll continue to support the area’s best local businesses, as we hope to, by holding our annual awards.

Elsewhere? Well, this month we’re presenting our Good Spa Guide with the area’s finest health and beauty treatments, we’re visiting Uffington’s Bertie Arms for some good old fashioned hospitality, and we’re meeting local fundraisers on our High Life pages. Best wishes for a Happy New Year!

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk

This month’s covers show an experience we hope to repeat in 2023; a bracing dog walk in the snow last year, and a shot of Burghley House in the snow, with a friendly looking deer, photographed by John Lawrence, supplied by Burghley House. We’re always looking for scenes of Rutland and Stamford to feature on our covers and in the magazine. If you’re a budding photographer, email your pictures to the address above!

CONTENTS

NEWS & EVENTS

08 NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford, including a new dry ski slope investment at Tallington Lakes.

28 WHAT’S ON Live events, music and theatre productions this January.

HIGHLIGHTS

19 THE GOOD SPA GUIDE New Year relaxation with some of the area’s finest spas for a day visit or an overnight stay. 33 EDUCATION Schools & Colleges.

FOOD & DRINK

42 DINING OUT Vibrant dining in a cosy village pub: we visit The Bertie Arms in Uffington.

47 THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS After inviting nominations from our readers, we reveal the winning restaurants, coffee shops and food heroes in this year’s awards.

62 RECIPES & WINE Delicious treats for winter and some sparkling wines to see in the New Year.

HOMES & GARDENS

68 WELCOME HOME A village property in the heart of Kings Cliffe which provides period home style and a modern living space.

77 HOMES Warm up your winter with cranberry red shades and warm mustards.

LIFESTYLE

100 MOTORS Is bigger always better? We climb aboard a new all-electric Hummer to find out.

104 WEDDINGS The stylish and elegant wedding of Wayne and Jo Pearson. 108 FASHION New Year’s Eve party dresses. 115 HIGH LIFE A special guest at the Lord Lieutenant’s Festival of Remembrance and celebrating tourism in Rutland.

THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the area. Our circulation is to homes in the top three council tax bands, which are predominantly worth over £300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content.

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

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

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

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

THE PRIDE TEAM

Retirement Made Easy

Retirement or ceasing to work is a big milestone in anyone’s life, and it means different things to different people. Planning for your retirement is one of the biggest financial decisions of your lifetime. There is a lot to consider; the fact that people are living longer, higher inflation rates and the huge number of choices, all result in not knowing what decisions to make...

Whatever you want to do in retirement, the more time you give yourself to prepare and the earlier you start putting money away, the harder your savings can work for you... ultimately, to help you to enjoy a prosperous retirement. Planning for the future always begins with understanding what you can save, what you have saved and whether you’re getting the best from it.

How can you save for your retirement?

A way that you can save for your retirement is through pensions. You can start to and continue to contribute into pensions at any working age. It’s never too late to start to save through pensions. You won’t be able to access the money you save until you reach the age of eligibility, around 55 – but this gives you the opportunity to save the fund for your retirement.

Importantly, many people are not aware that there are many tax benefits when it comes to pensions. There are several benefits to pensions, for example did you know that there are pensions tax reliefs when you save for your retirement?

Essentially, what this means, is the government rewards you for saving for your retirement. The government will top up your retirement savings and this is based on tax reliefs and on the highest income tax you pay.

Most people can utilise the £40,000 annual allowance for pensions and earn tax relief, any contributions above this allowance will be subject to income tax at the highest rate you pay.

There is also the potential for benefits when it comes to inheritance tax. For example, in most cases, any pension pots you have can be passed on and fall outside of your estate.

Unlike your property, savings and other investments, your pension does not form part of your estate on your death, and therefore it won’t be subjected to inheritance tax.

Pension consolidations

If like most people you may have changed jobs over the years and have several pension pots. It may be beneficial to consolidate your pots and by combining your pensions you can see your pensions in one place, and you’ll be able to see how your pension is performing. We can help you get to grips with what is where and how this helps with your plan.

Why should I speak to an adviser about all this? Individual advice remains very important because everybody’s needs vary when it comes to planning for retirement. There are many ways to create your retirement income using the pension types that are described and an adviser can help you to create a retirement plan that you can utilise in the most efficient way possible.

There is often a balance to achieve the right mix of certainty and flexibility to suit your retirement plan.

Pensions are a great way to save for retirement for most people as they offer tax benefits and tax reliefs as you save. It can be confusing

navigating the complexities of pensions and we are here to help it make sense.

At BCM Wealth Management, we look at your whole situation, including how you feel about different considerations, your future financial aspirations and help you to identify and build a plan that is right for you.

We help you understand what tax benefits and reliefs are available to you, how much you are going to need, and then where appropriate we help you to achieve this.

Speaking to a financial adviser is a good idea for building an understanding of your investment goals and what level of investment risk you are prepared to take.

Our approach to planning your retirement is transparent, honest, and designed to meet your requirements. We want to support you with all your retirement planning needs and help you to maximise the potential growth within your pension funds over your chosen timescale.

You can book a face-to-face chat with our pension review service, to see if you’re on track to meet your retirement goals.

The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up.

You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. n

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 product 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.

Chat to BCM Wealth Management’s specialist team, based at 5 Ironmonger Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1PL, www.bcmwealth.co.uk, 01780 437500.

Slope off for some fun this winter...!

NEW DRY SKI SLOPE IS NOW OPEN AT TALLINGTON FOR FAMILY FUN

If you fancy ‘sloping’ off for some family fun this winter, you’ll be thrilled to know that Tallington Lakes has fitted a brand new surface to its 120m dry ski slope to ensure visitors have the most modern, snow-like experience possible.

“Our outdoor dry slope offers a chance for those who want to try something a bit different this winter to get out there to give it a go,” says Chas Shrosbree, manager of Tallington Lakes.

Tallington has BASI (British Association of Snowsports Instructors) tutors to help novices take to the slope for the first time, or to refine your technique if you’ve already booked and want to hit the ground running or skiing, as the case may be.

The site comprises 205 acres of clean spring water fed

lakes, for those who want to water ski, wakeboard, jet ski, dinghy sail, windsurf, or canoe, as well as its dry ski slope, and a 15 metre climbing tower on the park.

In addition, Tallington has a touring park with 83 pitches, and it is home to over 400 luxury lodges and park homes for sale which enjoy stunning lakeside views. More than 700 people have purchased a lodge on the site, which cover over 300 acres in total, with some keeping them to use for family and friends or for leisure pursuits in the summer, and others purchasing them as an investment.

“Now is the best time to learn to ski and snowboard in style. Skiing and snowboarding provide an exhilarating way to exercise during the colder months, with private or group lessons available,” says Chas. n See www.tallington.com.

Burghley’s New Playground

Work on an exciting new adventure play attraction has begun at Burghley House.

Due to open in spring 2023, the play area will offer a new outdoor play destination for families in the local community and add a child friendly attraction for families visiting Burghley from further afield.

The team at Burghley have worked closely with worldclass playground designers, Capco Adventure Play, to create a wonderfully imaginative design, packed with playability which is sure to delight and excite children of all ages.

The company responsible for the build of the new play area, is an award-winning company who specialise in creating exceptional, narrative led play experiences beautifully crafted to complement their unique surroundings.

The play area will be situated in an area of the garden adjacent to the Sculp ture Garden that up until now has been closed to the public.

The adventure play area will be supported by one of Burghley’s other development projects – a purpose-built car park also scheduled to open in the new year. n See www.burghley.co.uk.

STAMFORD

STAMFORD

Image: Tallington Lakes.

A home for veterans

The first recorded veteran statistics from the 2021 Census coincides with the launch of the Government’s first ever UK veterans survey, prompting South Kesteven District Council to urge all military veterans and their families to use the survey to have their say.

The data confirms that South Kesteven is home to almost 8,700 military veteransan estimated 7.37% of the

district population, so the Office of Veterans’ Affairs is inviting local veterans to share their views and help shape the future of support services.

“We have always known that South Kesteven has a strong veteran population, and so we urge all our veterans and their families to take part in the survey, to ensure that we can adapt services to meet their needs.”

n See www.ons.gov.uk/veteranssurvey.

Making plans for Barnsdale Lodge

Local art teacher’s inspiring new book...

UPPINGHAM

An Uppingham teacher has achieved a lifelong ambition, having published her own book, to give teachers like her inspiration on how to ensure pupils enjoy studying art.

Adele Darlington has published her contribution to Bloomsbury’s 100 Ideas for Primary Teachers series, with, as the title suggests, inspirational projects for teachers to set their pupils to stimulate their creativity. n

STAMFORD Stamford’s Kiwani raised £15,000 for local charities recently thanks to their bonfire and fireworks event held at Welland Academy. For our 40 years the charity has been organising the annual event, which this year has supported Evergreen, Second Helpings, Stamford Housing Essentials Project and a number of local schools. n

Work will begin this winter to update one of the most beloved hotels in Rutland, Barnsdale Lodge, ready for spring 2023. The 46-bedroom hotel with its courtyard, kitchen garden and Vettriano-themed dining room has been purchased by Signet which was established in 2020 and has already reimag ined two other historic boutique hotels, The Mitre Hampton Court and The Retreat at Elcot Park.

Signet’s Hector Ross says he set his sights on Barnsdale five years ago and, having now purchased it, will give it a full makeover and create a spa, bike hire facility and café. Staff have been retained and have already visited Signet’s other sites. n

£15,000 Raised

LOCAL NEWS

In Brief RUTLAND New venue for Rutland Good & New Sale

It’s one of the most eagerly anticipated events of early spring, and this year the Rutland Good & New Clothes Sale will have a brand new venue in the form of the Rutland Showground. In recent years the sale has been held at Barnsdale Lodge, which is due to undergo a refurbishment very soon. The sale sees around 300 visitors each year and good quality pre-loved clothing and accessories sold to benefit For Rutland which funds Specialist Advisers who provide help and advice to people of all ages in the area.

The sale will take place on 24th and 25th March. see www.for rutland.org.uk. n

EXTON

STAMFORD

Image: RAF Wittering

Tiny trousers sell for ten thousand!

OAKHAM COURT DWARF SIR JEFFREY HUDSON’S TROUSERS

COMMAND FIVE FIGURES

OAKHAM

Looking for a pair of smart trousers? Some Prada denim jeans in navy perhaps? That’ll be just under a thou sand pounds, please... reason able value when you consider that Oakham resident Sir Jeffrey Hudson’s trousers recently sold for £10,000 at auction, despite having substantially less material than those Prada ones.

Born in 1619, Sir Jeffrey Hudson was a court dwarf of the English Queen Henrietta Maria of France, presented to the Duchess of Buckingham in 1626 as a ‘rarity of nature’ before Charles I and his young French wife, Queen Henrietta Maria were gifted the court dwarf somewhat oddly in a pie which Sir Jeffrey jumped out of, wearing a suit of armour, surprising the Queen, to say the least.

Sir Jeffrey became a trusted confidante of the Queen and was popular at court beyond the novelty of his height just 18 inches.

He was a bit of a scrapper, too, having fought with the Royalists in the English Civil War and fled with the Queen to France but was expelled from her court when he killed a man in a duel.

Sir Jeffrey was later cap tured by Barbary pirates and spent 25 years as a slave in North Africa before being ransomed back to England.

Having returned he lived in England and was later implicated in the Popish Plot, dying in the town around 1682.

The green brocaded trousers were in possession of the Late Eila Grahame (19352009), proud descendant of the Grahams of Duntrune and Claverhouse and were recently auctioned by Sworders. n

20 Years of Local PCSOs

Brief

TRY, TRY AGAIN FOR OAKHAM RUGBY PLAYER BRIAN, STILL ON THE FIELD AT AGE

75!

Oakham Rugby Club recently celebrated the 75th birthday of Brian Sampson, who is still a regular player, believed to be the sport’s oldest active player. Brian spent four seasons with Leicester Tigers before joining Oakham RFC in 1966. n

& BARLEYTHORPE’S LAUREN LYALL STARS IN DOCUMENTARY MARKING 20 YEARS OF PCSOS...

At 21 years old, Lauren Lyall was still an infant when Leicestershire Police introduced PCSOs, which have become invaluable to helping the community in the 20 years since. Lauren’s mother, father and stepfather were all in the police and Lauren followed in their footsteps last year.

“I love it,” says Lauren. “Talking to people and helping people out and essentially making it a safer and better place for people to live.”

Reflecting on her role, Lauren has recently starred in a documentary marking 20 years of local PCSOs available to view now at www.leics.police.uk. n

OAKHAM

OAKHAM

Image: Sworders.

A superb, 18th century, Grade II listed property sits in the very heart of the highly sought after, conservation village of King’s Cliffe, equidistant from Stamford to the north, Oundle to the south and Uppingham to the west. The stone house, presented in beautiful order and set over three floors, is the perfect blend of charm and character in the predominantly old part and modern living in the new kitchen and contemporary garden room created at the back. With five bedrooms in total, four very generous doubles, recently refitted bathrooms are on each of the two upper floors. Outside, the completely enclosed, walled garden stretches from the patio up steps onto a lawn with a further patio for al fresco dining or relaxing in the sun. In addition, at the end of the garden, an outbuilding offers an excellent home office as well as an opportunity to convert into a self-contained annex, for instance, subject to the necessary planning consents.

Tel: +44 (0)1780 750200 Email: stamford@fineandcounty.com Tel: +44 (0)1572 335145 Email: rutland@fineandcounty.com Tel: +44 (0)1832 808 008 Email: oundle@fineandcountry.com fineandcountry.com

A high quality development of executive homes masterfully blending a traditional style with contemporary living, sits along the banks of the River Gwash in the desirable village of Great Casterton just a couple of miles north of Stamford, and a stone’s throw from the A1. This exquisitely designed property is constructed by using superior materials and heated by an economical, environmentally friendly, air source heat pump. Set over three floors, it provides expansive ground floor space with two front rooms, a garden room and a spacious kitchen diner. A central, oak and glass staircase rises to the first and second floors. The first floor landing leads to the four bedrooms and a family bathroom. On the top floor two bedrooms share a bathroom. The garden is a courtyard style garden with flagstone patio terrace with access from the garden room. There is also an integrated double garage and the property is accessed via a private, shared drive.

UPPINGHAM

£475,000

Charming, stylishly presented period townhouse with enclosed garden ideally placed for Uppingham School and access to Uppingham town centre. The versatile and flexible accommodation is arranged over four levels and includes Sitting Room, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Cellar/Music Room, 4 Dbl Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms. Energy rating: D.

GRETTON

£525,000

Tastefully refurbished character cottage with high quality fittings throughout, a large detached double Garage and good-sized Gardens situated in a desirable village location. The property is available with NO CHAIN and internal viewing is highly recommended. 2 Reception Rooms, well-equipped Dining Kitchen, 3 Double Bedrooms, refitted En-suite Shower Room and Family Bathroom. Energy Rating: F.

GRETTON

£790,000

Substantial detached family home with 3 well-proportioned Reception Rooms, 4 Double Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms occupying a splendid elevated position, with large, private rear garden and enjoying magnificent 180 degrees views over the Welland Valley. The property has been refurbished to a demanding specification with an array of improvements and features a superb high-tech kitchen equipped with exceptional range of appliances. Energy Rating: D.

BRAUNSTON OFFERS OVER £610,000

A delightful character property set on a select development of seven mews-style houses set in the heart of a fine conservation village. The well-proportioned and tastefully appointed accommodation sympathetically combines period features and charm with modern high-quality fixtures and fittings. Sitting Room, Conservatory, open-plan Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm/WC, Master Bedroom with en-suite Shower Room, 2 further dbl Bedrooms, Bathroom. Energy Rating: E.

SEATON

£595,000

Immaculately presented barn-style character property with established gardens enjoying countryside views situated in a picturesque Rutland village. The property was built in 2008 and offers well-proportioned accommodation tastefully appointed and equipped to a high standard throughout. Sitting Room, shaker-style Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm/WC, 3 Bedrooms, en-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; off-road Parking. Energy Rating: C.

OAKHAM

£565,000

Attractive five-bedroom 1950's detached house occupying a large plot with beautifully maintained gardens situated on the very edge of town, a short walk of amenities therein. Requiring routine modernisation, this imposing property possesses immense potential to create a stunning family home in a much sought-after location. 3 Reception Rooms, 5 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms, Tandem Garage. Energy Rating: D.

Offers Over £950,000

Offers Over £600,000

Main Street, Lyddington

A deceptively spacious and beautifully-presented, four-bedroom iron-stone property sitting in an elevated position in one of Rutland’s most sought-after villages.

Offers Over £600,000

Schofield Road, Oakham

An immaculately presented, four-bedroom, detached family home, sitting on a generous plot with off-road parking and a detached double garage.

Offers Over £525,000

Church Street, Ashwell

A unique and characterful, four-bedroom home, situated in an enviable raised position of the village with views of the church in the popular village of Ashwell.

Bridge Street, Langham

A well-proportioned, four-bedroom detached home, with off-road parking and garaging sitting in the heart of Langham, one of the area’s most popular villages.

THE GOOD SPA GUIDE

A cold spell? The winter blues? No matter! We’ve something to warm your body and soothe your mind in the form of the area’s most luxurious and well-appointed spas...

Words: Rob Davis.

Woolfox Lifestyle Members Club

The area’s new Lifestyle Members Club has just opened in Rutland, just a ten minute drive from Stamford & Oakham...

FITNESS & WELLBEING is just a stone’s throw from Stamford and Oakham with the opening of Woolfox Lifestyle Members Club just off the A1 between Stretton and Casterton. Created in place of old farm buildings which have been transformed and brought back to life, the club’s facilities include a 20 metre indoor swimming pool.

Surrounding views of rural Rutland and a poolside sauna and relaxation room leave members with nowhere else they’d rather be, and there’s an adjacent sauna with views over the countryside, and a relaxation room with heated loungers too.

There’s a gym with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and studio space with a variety of specialist yoga and wellness experiences. With options for group sessions or one to one tuition, make time to relax and redis cover what makes you feel your best.

Providing coffee, cake and much more is Fika. Sister cafés in Stamford and Oakham already enjoy a great reputation, so Fika at Woolfox which is also open to the public – is

Lifestyle Members Club

Woolfox Lifestyle Members Club is now open to members, with 2023 due to see new treatment rooms, a Zen garden, tennis courts and bespoke homes set to be created on the site.

everything you know and love... Enjoy a fresh juice or smoothie, the famous healthy Fika bowl or fuel up with the café’s Fika fry.

In the New Year, Woolfox will begin their luxury Residence & Stay development, with the first phase of 19 plots for sale.

This will be a lifestyle investment for those searching for a luxury second home, a place to reset, unwind and make memories.

Owners will have the option of bespoke builds with a finished value of between £1.5m – £2m. These will comprise of eco homes offering open plan living, making the most of the site’s beautiful views. n

Find Out More: Woolfox is only open to members and annual packages are being offered now, call 01780 460 330 or see www.woolfox.uk for details.

The Stableyard Spa at Stapleford Park

STAPLEFORD PARK is a really beautifully located country house hotel between Grantham and Melton Mowbray.

The 500-acre country estate has impeccable dining thanks to its two AA-rosette Grinling Gibbons dining room, plus beautiful grounds and a spa in the former stableblock created in 1899 and modelled on Buckingham Palace with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi in the main house.

Stableyard day experience with 60 minute treatment from £140 including lunch. Overnight spa break experience from £295 with three course dinner and 60 minute

treatment, and two-night package with 60 minute treatment £502. Other treatments include Drift Away, a calming aromatherapy massage for £75, Champagne facial and truffles £115, or mani cures and pedicures from £45. n

Find Out More: The Stableyard Spa at Stapleford Park is located just off the A1 at Grantham, LE14 2EF. For details of treatments and availability, call 01572 787000 or see www.staplefordpark.com.

Overnight Spa Breaks

Overnight breaks at Ragdale Hall begin at £353, with Simple, Classic and Luxury room grades available. A 40-minute treatment is included, plus three course lunches and evening meals.

Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire

BACK IN 1990, Michael Isaacs and Penny Nesbitt opened one of the earliest and probably still the largest spas in the area, with both day spa and short break provision.

Ragdale Hall installed a Rooftop Infinity Pool back in 2017 and during Covid, created a Twilight Bar cocktail bar and lounge, as well as a new industrial-style gym and two studios: Heart & Soul. This year it has rebranded and its owners are restyling the spa in more ‘earthy’ colours for a bit more of a modern luxe image. The spa has also celebrated being awarded the Best Spa for Guest Expe rience title in the 2022 Good Spa Awards.

The 13-acre spa has 50 treatment rooms, eight relaxation rooms and over 100 treatments.

Twilight Taster evening available from £109, an Experience Day costs £130... seven night ‘Ultimate Experience’ is from £1,281! n

Relaxing at Ragdale Hall.

Find Out More: Ragdale Hall is based in the village of Ragdale, Melton Mowbray LE14 3PB. Call 01664 434831 or see www.ragdalehall.co.uk.

Eden Hall, Elston, Newark

EDEN HALL was originally a private country house owned by Robert Middleton, who built Middleton House in 1875. What was once the family chapel is now the day spa’s restaurant, following Eden Hall’s transfor mation into one of the most popular local spas, back in 2002.

Facilities include a Vitality swimming pool of 25 metres, outdoor hot tubs, a thermal spa suite with six temperature experiences, plus a slumber lounge and a conservatory. In the warmer months, take advantage of a rooftop terrace and gardens.

If you’re feeling especially disciplined there are activities and classes from high-impact cardio to meditation, as well as a number of outdoor activities for the spring and summer months. Personal trainers, too, are on hand to help with health and fitness goals.

Otherwise, if you’re of the more hedonistic persuasion, Eden Hall has 30 treatment rooms with luxury body and face treatments powered by Elemis and Voya. There are 10 body treatments from £85, six facials from £85, deluxe manicures and pedicures from £55 and additional holistic treatments like Indian head massage and reflexology.

Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea are all available, the latter from £25 although it must be pre-booked. There’s a Shepherd’s Hut in the grounds too, serving ice cream and Pimm’s in the summer. n

Find Out More: Eden Hall is based at Elston near Newark, NG23 5PG. For availability call 01283 576522 or see www.baronseden.com.

The Waterfall Pool at Ragdale Hall.

Swimming pool at Eden Hall.

The Grange Spa at Pointon

CREATED IN 2008, and run by Matt & Emma Craven, The Grange Spa is smaller than super-spas like Eden Hall or Ragdale Hall, but that’s no bad thing because, actually, the place feels a lot more intimate and relaxing... just what you want from a spa!

Visitors aren’t left wanting in terms of facilities either, with a refurbished 12 metre swimming pool, heat experiences and a well-equipped gym.

There are six treatment rooms, with nine body treatments, seven face treatments, plus manicures and pedicures

Choose from a half-day package from £70, an all-day experience from £97, or push the boat out and enjoy The Ultimate Grange Experience for £256, which includes three and a half hours of treatment time.

There’s also provision for hard-working folk in the form of twilight spa experiences and packages for couples for men and for pregnant women. n

Find Out More: The Grange Spa, is based on Millthorpe Road, Pointon NG34 0NF. For availability, call 01778 440511, or see www.thegrangespa.co.uk.

Revive Skin & Spa at Market Harborough...

REVIVE SKIN & SPA is based in Market Har borough and its facilities include jacuzzi room, infrared sauna, steam room and relaxation room. Afternoon tea and twilight experiences are available, with a treatment and afternoon tea from £60, to a full four and a half hour spa experience for £115. Additional treatments range from manicures and pedicures from £45, to HiFu, RF and microneedling. n

The Grange’s Online Shop

The Grange Spa at Pointon has launched its new Online Shop with spa-quality Pinks Boutique products, Thalgo cleansing and moisturising products, and Proverb skincare for men.

Nu-u Skincare, Empingham

Find Out More: Revive Skin & Spa is based on St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough, for details of treatments and availability, call 07759 130108 or see www.reviveskinandspa.co.uk.

SKINCARE SPECIALIST Portia of Nu-u Skin provides Profhilo skin boosters, non-surgical bottom lift and tummy tightening, microneedling, RF facials, IPL skin rejuvenation as well as IPL hair removal and tattoo removal from her Empingham clinic. n

Find Out More: Nu-u Skincare, LE15 8PZ. 07368 971630, www.nuuskinspecialist.co.uk.

ESC Studio, Stamford

ELECTROLYSIS & SKINCARE STUDIO is based in The George Hotel Mews and provides skin blemish (e.g.: skin tag) removal, and treatment for verruca, warts, milk spots and thread veins. Practitioner Caroline Claypole has 28 years clinical experience. n

Find Out More: Stamford PE9 2LB. Call 07888 837036 or see escstudio.co.uk.

Somewhere between the scrabble and the wrapping paper, there is a blissful little lull... to enjoy with a good book

If ever there was a time to sit down and give yourself permission to enjoy a book that has absolutely nothing ‘gritty’ or ‘challenging’ about it, then surely this must be it! These stories are gloriously gentle; charming, nostalgic and surprisingly insightful. Presented in beautifully crafted hardback books, with original commissioned artwork cover, ribbon marker, soft-tint paper and generous font size...

Book 1: All for Overalls: “Just because you’re out of the way doesn’t mean you’re not in the middle of it!” The news from Dunkirk in the summer of 1940 finds a small Lincolnshire village adapting to wartime ways and the new RAF hospital, as characters and best-intentions abound! A 14-year old errand-boy called Gertie, is spurred into action and inspires a young gang of Salvage Scamps to join him in ‘The Effort’. Equipped with bicycles, wheelbarrows and buckets, they manage to bring half the village in to their scrapes along the way.

Book 2: If the Sock Fits! “You get them to believe they can fight back … and they stop feeling beaten.” This second book in the Trilogy moves on to the autumn of 1940 and the harsh reality of harvest time in the countryside as the Battle of Britain rages in the skies overhead. The Greatest Generation rises to the challenge and, of course, there's Gertie ... as determined and inventive as ever!

Book 1: ‘All for Overalls’ and Book 2: ‘If the Sock Fits!’ are available NOW from Walkers Bookshops (Stamford and Oakham) and from purchases@GertiesPath.co.uk

Book 3: ‘Raids, Rallies & Reserves’ (due out early 2023, can be reserved directly through GertiesPath.co.uk).

What’s On...

PETERBOROUGH

WEDNESDAY

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25th JANUARY

SUNDAY 29th JANUARY KATHARINE OF ARAGON FESTIVAL

This Tudor-themed festival commemorates the date in January 1536 when King Henry VIII’s first wife was buried at Peterborough Abbey. It will take place from 25th to 29th January 2023.

Events include a Tudor tour of Peterborough Cathedral, online talk Portraits of Katherine by Prof Theresa Earenfight, and events like At Court with the Tudors, At Home with the Tudors, Old Scarlett (Tudor grave digger) tours, and a special commemoration event led by The Very Revd Chris Dallis ton, Dean of Peterborough. n For the full programme, see www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.

Classical Music in Stamford

LAURA VAN DER HEIJDEN & JÂMS COLEMAN PERFORMING MUSIC FROM ARTISTS INCLUDING DEBUSSY & BEETHOVEN

STAMFORD SATURDAY 14th JANUARY CLASSICAL MUSIC IN THE BALLROOM, WITH LAURA VAN DER

HEIJDEN & JÂMS COLEMAN

Live performance in Stamford Arts Centre Ballroom, including Beethoven 12 Variations on Bei Männern welche Liebe fühlen; Britten Sonata in C For Cello and Piano and Debussy Cello Sonata, plus short pieces by Swanson, Boulanger and Fauré. n Tickets £20/adults, from 7.30pm, Stamford Arts Centre, PE9 2DL, 01780 763 203, www.stamfordartscentre.com.

LEICESTER

TUESDAY 31st JANUARY

SATURDAY

11th FEBRUARY

THE OCEAN AT THE END OF THE LANE

From the imagination of author Neil Gaiman, comes the National Theatre’s major new stage adaptation of The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

Returning to his childhood home, a man is transported to his 12th birthday when his remarkable friend Lettie claims the garden’s body of water isn’t a pond, but in fact a magical an ocean.

Plunged into a fantasy world, their survival depends on their ability to reckon with ancient forces that threaten to destroy everything around them. n Tickets from £10-£40.50, performances at 2.15pm, 7.30pm, Curve Theatre, Leicester, 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

PETERBOROUGH

FRIDAY 27th JANUARY GOOD EVENING MR BUBLÉ

Breathtaking concert spectacular, featuring powerful performances of his hits including, Home, Feeling Good, Haven’t Met You Yet, Crazy Love, Cry Me A River and many more all performed live by ‘Michael’ and his incredible orchestra. This show has it all, the power, emotion, musicianship... and above all the voice!

n Tickets £26.50, from 7.30pm, Cresset Theatre Peterborough, PE3 8DX, 01733 265 705,

STAMFORD

SUNDAY 29th JANUARY MASTERS OF CHANT UK

Performing some of the greatest songs of all time from artist’s such as Queen, The Beatles, Abba, AC/DC and Michael Jackson. Immerse yourself in some of the greatest compositions ever written, uniquely transformed! Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody, John Lennon’s Imagine,

The Beatles’ Yesterday and Let It Be, Robbie Williams’ Angels, Coldplay’s Viva La Vida, plus Hallelujah, Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven and many many more!

Hand-picked professional musicians and choir singers cleverly combine the genre with modern day music.

n Tickets £25/adults, from 7.30pm, Stamford Corn Exchange, PE9 1PX, call 01780 766455 or see www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

Let there be light at Belvoir!

A BREATHTAKING WINTER WALK THROUGH LIGHT, COLOUR AND FANTASY AT BELVOIR CASTLE...

LEICESTER

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

OAKHAM

DECEMBER UNTIL SUNDAY 8th JANUARY THE WIZARD OF OZ

Click your heels together three times and say, ‘there’s no place like Curve.’

The much-loved and magical story of The Wizard of Oz, spectacularly retold in a Made at Curve musical. Directed by Curve Artistic Director Nikolai Foster and featuring additional music and songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice alongside the iconic originals from the MGM film, join Dorothy and Toto as they are swept up from Kansas and transported over the rainbow to the wonderland of Oz… n Tickets £10-£45, performances at 2.15pm, 7.30pm, Curve Theatre LE1 1SB, 0116 242 3595, or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

GRANTHAM

FRIDAY JANUARY 27thSUNDAY FEBRUARY 19th

SPECTACLE OF LIGHT AT BELVOIR CASTLE

A breathtaking walk through light, colour and fantasy will welcome in the 2023 season at Belvoir Castle, brightening the winter evenings with a magical after-dark experience for visitors.

Beautiful installations will showcase the Capability Brown gardens, its formal features and sculptures as well as lighting up the Regency castle exterior as never seen before.

WEDNESDAY 25th JAN

BURNS NIGHT SUPPER

Burns Night party with the Selkirk Grace, followed by a Piper, piping in the haggis which is then served with tatties and neeps!

n Grainstore Brewery, Oakham, LE15 6RE, 01572 770065, www.grainstorebrewery.com.

2023 will also be the first time the gardens have been opened to the public during early spring as snowdrops carpet the woodland floor.

The trail around the Castle grounds will allow visitors to discover some amazing light installations like Curve, Carpet of Colour and Paraluna.

Hot chocolate and mulled wine will be available on the Castle terrace to enjoy along with street food and sweet treats.

n Tickets £19.20/adults, £9.60/child, entry slots from 5.30pm, Belvoir Castle, 01476 871001, www.belvoircastle.com.

Schools & Colleges

Here, we profile some of the best independent schools and colleges, across Stamford and Rutland, offering the very best education the region has to offer...

Words: Rob Davis.

Brooke Priory School

Laxton Junior School

“Innovative approach to play & child-led learning”

Established in 1989, Brooke Priory is an independent co-educational Preparatory School based in Oakham. Brooke Priory creates a unique environment where childhood is cherished and children are encouraged ‘to be the best they can be.’ Family pervades all we do within the school by valuing hard work and ensuring each day is spe cial for every child.

We teach children to become independent, reflective learn ers. We foster excellent rela tionships with our pupils who succeed and thrive in an envi ronment of mutual respect. Our small class sizes promote a supportive culture in the classroom and whilst children remain competitive, they also celebrate and encourage each other’s success.

Whilst academic distinctions are always a priority we focus on the ‘whole child’ in all as

pects of school life. Sport is high profile at Brooke Priory, we offer a full and varied list developing a lifelong love of competitive sport. We have a thriving music and creative arts department, mindfulness activities and an unrivalled extra-curricular programme. We encourage a healthy mind and body promoting nutritious snacks and outdoor country side pursuits via ‘Welly Days.’

We recognise that some children will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others. Children perform better if their emotional needs are addressed, we have an ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) programme and we also have our Emotional Support dog Elsie! n To find out more or to request a prospectus, contact Admissions on 01572 724778 or email: communications@brooke.rutland.sch.uk, www.brooke.rutland.sch.uk.

Teaching our youngest children is really special. It requires a particular passion and skill…and a desire to enter the amazing world of their imagination. Our small classes and one-to-one approach en able us to get to know each child really well from the out set, building both trust and confidence.

We respond to their brilliant ideas and interests, working with them through play to wonder where, what, why and how. We call this the Power of Play because is it through play and without any inhibitions, limitations or expectations, that four-year-old children truly fall in love with learning. This is, without doubt, the strongest possible foundation for their future development.

Supporting this vision for learning is our brand new, state-of-the-art Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) space which opened in

September. Working closely with specialist architects, the existing classrooms have been reimagined to become a dynamic, open plan indoor and outdoor learning space that maximises opportunities for learning through play.

Sustainability has been central to the development, with the space making use of natural eco-friendly materials, con necting with nature and the environment.

We would love to show you around and bring to life our innovative approach to play and child-led learning. Please contact Rachel Waterhouse, Assistant Head Admissions, to have a chat and to arrange to see LJS at a time that suits you and your family best.

n Laxton Junior School (part of Oundle School).

W: www.laxtonjunior.org.uk

E: admissions@laxtonjunior.org.uk

T: 01832 277275

Instagram: laxtonjuniorschool

“We’re encouraged to be the best we can be…”

Stamford Endowed Schools

The Schools are woven into the tapestry of the town...

Oakham School

Year 6 is a ‘Hidden Gem’ at Oakham School...

At Stamford, our purpose is to give young people the opportunity to thrive. Our aim is to help them become the best version of themselves, to become rounded and grounded individuals ready for the next chapter of their lives.

Stamford strives to offer an out standing, contemporary educa tion in which students develop the ability to think for themselves and to interpret the world around them. Our Schools have a long and prestigious heritage, but everything we do at Stamford is focused on preparing young people to lead happy and fulfilling lives in the 21st Century.

Stamford Endowed Schools encompass the Nursery, Junior, and Senior Schools, as well as Sixth Form. The current Stam ford School and Stamford High School will be fully co-educa tional from September 2023.

At Stamford our passion and drive for the best in our students is often coined ‘Stamfordian Spirit’. The atmosphere of a house sport event or a spine tingling musical recital in the Oswald Elliot hall is second to none. Our core school day starts at 8.30am and finishes by 4pm Monday to Friday, but our schools are busy and buzzing long after the end of the day with a vast array of sporting activities, co-curricular clubs, music events – the list is endless! Our new Wothorpe Sports Centre has also recently opened, offering a multi-million pound sports complex to the west of our site for all Stamford students to enjoy. This complements our already extensive provision of sports facilities for students n For more information or to book a personal tour to Discover Stamford, please contact our admissions team on 01780 750311 or visit www.stamfordschools.org.uk.

Oakham School is known for its academic excellence and outstanding pastoral care, Oakham School is an outstand ing co-educational day and boarding school for 10 to 18 year olds located in the heart of Rutland’s historic county town.

Within the 70-acre campus and outstanding facilities is the ‘hidden gem’ of the Lower School, offering a first-class education to the youngest pupils at the School. Children can join Oakham from Year 6 (aged 10), giving them an early introduction to the vast range of opportunities available.

Lower 1 (Year 6) pupils at Oakham School follow a timetable that is grounded in primary teaching with a pri mary specialist class teacher and a classroom base where they’re taught their lessons. They also benefit from being taught by subject specialists for

French, Science, the Creative and Performing Arts subjects, and Physical Education (PE), as well as taking part in several exciting trips and activities.

A former Lower 1 parent said: “All three of my children joined Oakham in Lower 1 and it re ally helped to ease them into the rhythm of School life. They loved starting at ‘big school’ a year early and enjoyed all the social and academic advan tages, whilst benefitting hugely from being taught in small classes in their own classroom.”

Joining Lower 1 means that pupils can immediately benefit from the broad Oakham cur riculum that swiftly embeds them into the rounded experi ence of life at Oakham School.

n Find out more by contacting Oakham School’s friendly Admissions team: admissions@oakham.rutland. sch.uk or 01572 758758.

Copthill School, Stamford

Lincoln Minster School “Providing an inspiring education for life...”

There really isn’t another school like Copthill in the area. In an age where parents worry constantly about how much exercise their children are getting, or how addicted to their phones and iPads they are Copthill School, near Uffington, is a perfect solution to those concerns.

It has the most amazing 300acre grounds, which hide the sorts of delights and challenges which will make any child forget Fortnite in an instant.

Whether its building rafts on its gorgeous stretch of the Welland, learning about World War I in a purpose-built trench, or playing all sorts of sports on its astroturf pitch, Copthill provides opportunities for children that inspire their imaginations and kick-starts a passion for learning.

But it’s not just about the Forest School, wooden fort,

farm with live animals, outdoor kitchens and any other number of other outdoor marvels. Academic attainment and Copthill’s indoor educational resources are of an extremely high standard too.

There’s a fully kitted out laboratory for science, all the classrooms have state-of-theart digital teaching facilities, while music pods and a studio cater for the arts and of course, as you would expect at a school with such a strong health the dinner hall is a bastion of fresh, healthy eating. The school is available to view by appointment, so please call, as the Copthill children will enjoy the opportunity to show you around their school!

n Copthill Independent School for children age 2 - 11 Years, Barnack Road, Uffington, Stamford PE9 3AD Tel: 01780 757506 or visit www.copthill.com.

Lincoln Minster School is an independent co-educa tional HMC day and boarding school for pupils aged 4 – 18 years based in the heart of Lincolnshire.

The Lincoln Minster School experience provides an en riched education that consis tently creates high achievers with purpose, ambition and character.

The relatively small class sizes allow us to give each student the attention and individu alised nurturing needed to sup port their development as they reach their full potential.

Our pupils and parents have the opportunity to help curate their learning experience, with the option to take advantage of our 150 co-curricular clubs, our excellent sports and music facilities, our peripatetic music specialists or through life-

changing, character-forming overseas travel opportunities. When our pupils and parents join us, they join the rich Lincoln Minster School family, a close-knit community that stays connected beyond graduation.

We aim to provide an environment that sets high expectations, facilitating stretch and challenge, where each child is stimulated to fulfil their potential in preparation for the next stage of their edu cation and future employment.

Through an inspiring curriculum, exciting clubs, activities and trips, excellent academic and pastoral support, and dedicated and caring staff, we provide each and every one of our pupils with an ‘education for life.’

n For more information visit www.lincolnminsterschool.co.uk or call 01522 5551300.

“Curiosity, excitement and desire for over 50 years!”

What The Dickens?

Three Property Ghosts of Past, Present & Future

In line with the seismic changes experienced in the economy and the country as a whole, homebuyers’ attitudes are undergoing a notable shift, manifested in changes to expectations, confidence and the market itself. Over the festive season Kate Vincent from Garrington a firm with over 27 years of experience of finding and buying residential property is visited by the ghosts of property markets from her past, the present and the future...

AS KATE VINCENT prepares to settle in for the evening, a ping from her laptop hails the arrival of a welcome email and in front of the fire she opens the a festive message from a satisfied homeowner whom she has helped to relocate. Pleased with the feedback she settles down to warm her feet by the fire. Soon drowsy, Kate is roused by a youthful, otherworldly figure in the flames, one from years gone by, when homebuyers’ attitudes to finding a new property were quite different.

The

Ghost

of

Property Markets Past...

The past couple of years have seen an unprecedented set of circumstances that have conspired to churn the market, says Kate Vincent, of Garrington who has over a decade of experience working in property in this area.

Kate acts on behalf of buyers helping them to find their ideal property and guide them through the process of negotiation before securing a price and overseeing the transaction through to completion.

Her aim is to make the process easier, less stressful and ensure a buyer – often making arguably the most significant financial investment of their lives – is guided through the process, securing the right property at the right price.

“In the aftermath of Brexit and the pandemic the property market sprang into action, buoyed by a rush of buyers willing to stretch their budgets; confident, willing to make quick decisions and determined to win in competitive bidding situations..”

“Many buyers were often frustrated that in such a keen market their money was going less far.”

“A property that might have been marketed at, say, £950,000 a year or two before might have been selling for as much as £1.2m, which was a harsh reality check for those with a finite budget.”

The Ghost of Property Markets Present...

After that brisk period for the market though, much has changed. From the still smouldering ashes of the pandemic came a change in Government leaders, then another change after a disastrous mini-bud get which rocked the market and worsened fears around an impending ‘cost of living’ crisis and the global consequences of a war in Ukraine.

As the figure in the flames fades, from the shadows comes a jolly figure, reassured, perhaps, by a more predictable and watchful property market. ‘Look upon the market and know it better,’ he declares.

“There is a very distinct air of caution in the market,” says Kate. “But some pragmatism too. My clients are not willing to pay over inflated prices but typically regard a property as a long-term investment so are less concerned with the threat of prices dropping in the following years. Many are not reliant on mortgage lending so they are less concerned about dramatic changes to interest rates. It’s a good time for dialogue and negotiation between sellers and buyers, with both keen to make sensible deals in a less frantic – but still productive – property market.”

The Ghost of Property Markets Yet To Come...

As the bellow of a jolly figure turns into the more uncertain and foreboding figure of a new year, a third spirit joins Kate, this time opaque, as though less certain.

“The winter typically sees fewer people engaging with property transactions, but in the New Year people begin to make plans, and in the build-up to spring, if you’re planning to move, it’s a good time to make sure you’re in a position to move and to have your finances in place.”

“Spring 2023 is likely to see new properties come onto the market when properties look more appealing. I’m expecting property prices to steady and to see increased interest in off-market properties, discreetly marketed, to which we have access.”

“In this part of the country, our unique properties, attractive villages and towns with, good schools and transport links, supports the perception that it’s a great place to live and will hopefully cushion us from any dramatic shifts in the market.”

“With a possible move to more of a buyer’s market, we anticipate a greater scrutiny of prices, but with opportunities to enter into negotiations on a collaborative basis, working at a pace and to a price that suits both parties. It’s a good time to engage a property finder, one who can bring experience and local knowledge, as well as calm, impartial advice to your search for a new home.”

As the third spirit fades, and the fire glows, Kate reflects on a new year rich in opportunities for those seeking a new property.

Specialising in brokering off-market deals and supporting both parties, the role of a property finder is a way of ensuring good outcomes and a less stressful experience during property transactions, a process that blesses both parties... each, and every one. n

www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk.

Find Out More: Kate Vincent is part of Garrington Property Services which, for over 25 years has sourced, negotiated and secured properties on behalf of its clients, acquiring private residences, second homes, or properties for rental or investment, and on many occasions, before the property has even come onto the open market. For a no obligation discussion of our circumstances, call 01780 408 377 or see

Dining Under a Thatched Roof at THE BERTIE ARMS

Even a rainy November day can’t blunt the appeal of Uffington’s Bertie Arms, a cosy pub restaurant for all seasons, run by Katie and James Genever...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

SEE THAT PICTURE BELOW? The one of the outside of Uffington’s Bertie Arms? Well, it looked exactly like that during our recent visit. Apart from the dark skies, siling rain, lack of people sitting outside and generally terrible weather.

But that’s OK, because most fortuitously, The Bertie Arms is a real pub for all seasons. Our exterior photograph was actually taken on a glorious spring day, with folk sitting outside, enjoying some fresh air.

Fast forward eight months and this time around, the pleasure was in the squashy sofas, roaring log burner, a pot of tea and some really nice winter dishes prepared by chef Ben Howling.

The place is home to James Genever, a third generation farmer born and raised nearby, and Katie Genever, who’s warm and welcoming at front of house to visitors who come in from the rain.

Katie spent a number of years working as a nurse before running local pubs including Stamford’s Periwig, now known as Paten & Co. In 2007 the two moved into Uffington and very quickly found themselves falling head over heels in love with village life.

Uffington has remarkable community spirit and there’s always plenty going on, so it stands to reason that the pub is the centre of its social scene.

But when the chance arose in 2017 to purchase their village pub and run it themselves, Katie and James jumped at the chance, recognising the potential there was to create a place that was still beloved by locals but would also become a destination pub restaurant for those seeking casual but still really good dining.

“Even if it’s not your local, the aim is to make you feel as though it is,”says Katie. “The place is so friendly and the locals are so welcoming that everyone feels at home here.”

“We definitely make no claim to be a fine dining restaurant with table linens or dress codes. In fact, we make point of saying that you’re welcome in walking boots and wellies, with a soggy dog fresh from a walk. And you’re equally welcome if you’re a villager who wants a pint, or a visitor from further afield who’s come for a meal.” >>

MEET THE CHEF

BEN HOWLING, HEAD CHEF

History: After the longest gap year in history in France and Italy (17 years!) Ben returned to the UK years ago and started at The Bertie Arms in spring.

Food Heaven: Fish in any form... I love the fish stew we ha on the menu!

Food Hell: Processed food. n

DINING OUT AT THE BERTIE ARMS AT UFFINGTON

White chocolate cheesecake with passionfruit curd and coconut ice cream, £8.

on the MENU

Starters/Sharers

Rosemary & garlic baked Camembert with chilli jam and focaccia, £8/£14. Homemade soup of the day with focaccia, £6.

Small Plates/Tapas

Crispy Asian pork belly, £9. Thai curry mussels, £8. Pigs in blankets, £8. Truffle mac ‘n’ cheese, £8.

Chef’s Choice

Grilled sea bass with Thai red coconut curry, pickled Asian vegetables, cashews and coriander, £19.

Roasted pork belly with black pudding mash, baby leeks, crab apple chutney, cider jus, crispy onions, £18.

Bertie fish stew with hake, crevettes, whole mussels, chorizo, samphire, toast and aioli, £20.

Corn fed chicken breast with wild mushrooms, fondant potato, baby leeks, tarragon, brandy cream, £18.

Bertie Classics

Chish & fips £17. Bertie burger £17. 10oz bavette steak, £21.

Bertie Classics

Warm treacle tart with blackberry coulis and salted caramel ice cream £8.

White chocolate cheesecake with passionfruit curd and coconut ice cream £8.

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

>> That’s not to say, though, that Katie and James, or Ben, are complacent about the standard of food they produce. A casual setting, they say, doesn’t mean you can fail to offer customers the very best dishes.

To do so, chef Ben brings to bear his 22 years of experience and local suppliers to create a single menu which operates during both lunchtime and evening service.

It comprises of three starter/sharing dishes and then a further selection of small plates which can be mixed and matched into a sort of mezze or taken as starters.

For main course, there’s a choice of five Chef’s Choice options which are more à la carte restaurant oriented, plus nine rather more defiantly pub restaurant dishes includ ing the Bertie burger; a couple of steak

options including a nice bavette cut with triple-cooked chips; sausage ‘n’ mash; chish ‘n’ fips; plus a homemade pie with roast gammon and mushroom. Also on the menu are four dishes for children and eight side dishes.

Lunchtime diners can also choose from a selection of five sandwiches or a couple of club sandwiches and a trio of flatbreads. Ben works alongside chefs Emily, Christian and Alison, and utilises local suppliers where there’s no concession made to quality.

Derbyshire butcher Price & Fretwell may be a little further away but its reputation for excellence definitely precedes it among chefs. RP Meats and Ritter Courivaud are two other suppliers as are Moorcroft and Direct Seafoods who provide fish, landed at Grimsby Docks, daily.

“Rubbish weather outside, if anything, makes the inside of The Bertie Arms even more enjoyable, but if the setting is great, the food surpasses any expectation by a country mile...”

DINING OUT AT THE BERTIE ARMS, UFFINGTON

Thai Curry Mussels £14.

Bertie Fish Stew £20.

Collins provides fresh fruit and veg, whilst local shoots will yield game this winter and some Chefs Choice dishes have been known to make use of meat from the family farm too.

There’s a dedicated Sunday lunch menu as well, plus a steak night and a pie night once a month, which will be joined by a fish night once a month beginning in 2023.

On the wall is Sanderson and Mulberry wallcoverings with deer and pheasants. The thatched roof and flagstones, wood burner and rustic pine tables all create an instantly welcoming feel that’s just right for winter.

Rubbish weather outside, if anything, makes the inside even more enjoyable, but if the setting is great, the food surpasses any expectation by a country mile.

Generous dishes, wonderful composition, cheerful plates and bowls and a very warm welcome make The Bertie Arms a great dining out recommendation this month.

“Serious food, in an unserious way,” is the way Katie describes The Bertie Arms’ offering of really nice food but in a setting that puts you immediately at ease. n

DINING OUT AT...

The Bertie Arms, Uffington, Stamford

The Pitch: “Dating from 1681, The Bertie Arms is a cosy and charming free house promising a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for all. Situated at the heart of the village, ‘The Bertie’ makes every customer feel like a local...!”

Opening Times: Seven days a week, Monday-Saturday 11am-11pm, Sundays 11am-9pm.

The Bertie Arms, Bertie Lane, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4SZ. Call 01780 766400 or see www.thebertiearms.co.uk.

Crispy Asian Pork Belly, £9.

Warm treacle tart with blackberry coulis and salted caramel ice cream £8.

This month we reveal the winners of our 2022 Good Food Awards. Back in October we invited our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, coffee shops and food & drink producers... and now, the results are in!

Words: Rob Davis.

In October we asked our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, cafés, food and drink producers. The votes have been counted and the results are in...!

Rutland & Stamford’s Restaurant of the Year

Located in the centre of Stamford, Paten & Co take this year’s flagship dining out award...

IN RECENT YEARS Paten & Co has received quite a few votes in our awards, but this year, it has managed to secure to top spot: a nice way to celebrate its fifth anniversary.

Originally home to a wine and spirit merchant, Alfred John Paten arrived in the area in 1838, opening up the place and trading off experience working in his family’s wine business, Bradings, based in London. Paten & Co became The Marsh Harrier pub in the 1970s, then The Periwig before closing in 2016.

The Grade II-listed building, which dates back to early C19th, was then purchased by Michael Thurlby and it reopened in November 2017 after Michael and his Executive Chef Nick Buttress stripped back the building to its shell and conducted a sympathetic restoration.

The work included the creation of an open kitchen and the installation of a charcoal oven, as well as introducing an industrial theme to the look and feel of the place.

Paten & Co’s parent company Knead Pubs also owns The Crown Hotel and The Tobie Norris, plus a 250-acre farm four-miles east of Stamford from which it’s able to raise its own beef and lamb from its 100 heads of Lincoln Red cattle and 450 sheep.

Doing so affords Paten & Co the ability to vouch for the quality and provenance of its ingredients, and to ensure that BBQ and grill options feature prominently on its menus. Examples of this include its BBQ braised brisket, Lincoln Red ‘Provenance’ burger using its own home-reared beef, and its Fried, Braised and Skewered platter, among many other very popular dishes.

Elsewhere there are tapas-style ‘small plates’ with big flavours, eight main courses as well as the grill options, and a good provision of vegetarian and vegan options to ensure everyone can find a dish they like.

Lunchtime diners have a choice of subs, and there’s a Sunday lunch menu too, with a whole roast chicken for two option and BBQ beef brisket.

In addition to a rather large selection of wines with a broad range of prices, there’s a selection of cocktails, and gins to choose from, as well as craft beer.

Michael’s philosophy is to create ‘really good pubs’ using his own produce where possible and to support other local businesses, which chimes well with locals’ love of Stamford, so it’s little wonder that Stamfordians regard it as a satisfying, relaxed and enjoyable dining experience, worthy of our top title. n

“Michael’s philosophy is to create ‘really good pubs’ using his own produce where possible and to support other local businesses in Stamford...”

Find Out More: Our Restaurant of the Year for 2022 is Paten & Co, based on All Saints’ Place, Stamford PE9 2AG. Call 01780 408647 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

Also highly commended...

n Hambleton Hall: Of course Hambleton Hall had to be hugely praised in our flagship category, being synonymous with exceptional dining in the area. Tim & Stefa Hart’s former hunting lodge a country house hotel since 1980, and in possession of a Michelin-star since 1982 as well as holding four AA rosettes offers its guests a stunning setting. Aaron and his brigade’s exceptional cuisine and warm, welcoming service from its unfailingly lovely team all underwrite its recommendation.

Tel: 1572 756 991, www.hambletonhall.com.

n The Olive Branch, Clipsham: A year after a fire devastated their old kitchen, Luke Holland and his brigade have left their temporary Portacabin behind and moved into a brand new, state-of-theart kitchen in which to produce its ridiculously good food. Warm, welcoming, deter minedly pub-like and dripping in charisma and charm... we absolutely love the place. Tel: 01780 410 355 www.theolivebranchpub.com.

n The George of Stamford: Traditional coaching inn with oak-panelled dining room and stone mullion windows for a grand feel. Head Chef Gareth Thorpe’s treats include Dover Sole, Sirloin of Beef plus Woodbridge Duck and Beef Wellington options. Tel: 01780 750750, www.georgehotelofstamford.com.

n The Lake Isle: Located in Uppingham, with two AA rosettes and set in a pretty C17th Grade II building. 20 years old with unmistakeable fine-dining. Tel: 01572 822951, www.lakeisle.co.uk.

In October we asked our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, cafés, food and drink producers. The votes have been counted and the results are in...!

Café, Coffee Shop or Bistro of the Year 2022

The Hayloft Café at Hunters Interiors has been named the area’s best coffee shop for 2022...

HUNTERS INTERIORS was faced with a nice problem to have back in 2020. Its visitors enjoyed popping in to appreciate, and feel inspired by, the studio’s bespoke furnishings, and accessories.

The trouble is, they had nowhere to sit and just take it all in... that is, until the creation of The Hayloft Coffee Shop.

It’s been an incredible success, serving excellent coffee, delicious cakes, Hambleton

Bakery bread and tea cakes plus savoury light lunches, which include a soup of the day and a salad of the day.

Traditional afternoon teas are available and in the warmer months, the place is even more popular thanks to a south-facing patio area, becoming a destination venue in itself as well as somewhere to mull over design decisions if you’re planning to introduce some high-end interior design into your home. n

Also highly commended by our readers

n The Garden Restaurant: Gates Garden Centre opened its 360 seater Garden Restaurant in Nov 2014, now open seven days, from 10am to 4.30pm, serving brunch, lunches from sandwiches and paninis to salads and home made desserts. After enjoying a meal in the restaurant, don’t forget to visit the garden centre’s Farm Shop, which opened in September 2019.

Tel: 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

n Otters Fine Foods, Oakham: Deli and coffee shop serving platters of meat, fish and cheese, sandwiches and salads. Tel: 01572 756481, www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk.

n Lamberts, Stamford: Brunch menu, then sandwiches, salads, burgers and afternoon teas. Open six days from 8.30am-4pm.

Tel: 01780 767063, www.lamberts-stamford.co.uk.

n Central Tea Room, Stamford: Set in a pretty and traditional C15th building, Central Tea Room claims to offer ‘the best breakfast in Stamford’ along with sandwiches, paninis, burgers and homemade cakes. Tel: 01780 763217, www.centraltearoom.co.uk.

Find Out More: The Hayloft Coffee Shop at Hunters Interiors is open Mon-Sat, 9am-4pm, 01780 753351.

Best

In October we asked our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, cafés, food and drink producers. The votes have been counted and the results are in...!

WE RECKON there has been a pub on the site of the current Marquess of Exeter since the early C17th, and under its last custodianship the place was very wellregarded as a traditional British gastropub.

Since spring 2022 though, The Marquess of Exeter has undergone rather a transforma tion under its new owner Krishnapal Negi, who has created a hybrid dining experience with two menus, one offering carefully-crafted classic pub fare, and at the same time, a menu of exciting, modern Indian dishes.

Krishnapal’s appreciation for North Indian cuisine is derived from recipes that he loved as a child growing up in the Indian Himalayas. Fast forward to 2004 and he

made a name for himself as a chef in Rich mond Upon Thames when he launched Tangawizi, catering for celebrities like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie... Krishnapal even turned away George Clooney when there were no tables available... sorry George!

Having earned a Michelin award, he went on to work under Michelin-starred Vineet Bhatia then was worked as executive chef at acclaimed London Fitzrovia restaurant ‘1947 London,’ before settling in Rutland.

Highlights include Lamb Rogan Josh, Chicken Jalfrezi and Biryani... all very recognisable, but brilliantly executed and nicely presented, making the Marquess of Exeter a worthy winner in this category! n

Also highly commended...

n Orbis, Stamford: ‘Encapsulating flavours from around the World’ is how Orbis describes itself. We say it’s varied and eclectic, with menus including pan-Asian, Mediterranean and US influences. Everything the restaurant produces is 100% gluten-free, too.

Tel: 01780 669950, www.tastetheworld.uk.

n Fika, Oakham & Stamford: Fika describes itself as a ‘vibey brunch café’ and is run by brother and sister duo, Ivo and Tia. Fika, refers to the Swedish philosophy of enjoying ‘the little things in life,’ like great coffee, an amazing brunch dishes and Scandi cinnamon buns. Brunch options include plum crumble porridge a lovely winter warmer and smashed avocado, but the place is also open on Friday evenings offering ‘small plate’ dishes and cocktails.

Tel: 01572 352935 or 01780 723514, www.fikacafe.co.uk.

n The Crown, Uppingham: A super traditional-looking pub in the centre of Uppingham, but offering flatbreads, pizzas and tapas.

Tel: 01572 822302, www.crownuppingham.co.uk.

n Sarpech, Oakham: Fresh quality ingredients, an excellent dining space. Sarpech is a fine dining restaurant with an Indian flavour, says owner Aditya Sinha. The place offers ‘British Classics,’ e.g.: Korma, Tikka, Rogan, Madras, Jalfrezi, as well as 18 Chef’s Collection dishes created with imagination, quality and authenticity in mind.

Tel: 01572 842888, www.sarpech.co.uk.

In October we asked our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, cafés, food and drink producers. The votes have been counted and the results are in...!

Rutland & Stamford’s Best ‘Restaurant with Rooms’

HAMBLETON HALL is easy to recommend for dining, but those who live close enough to visit it may overlook the potential for an overnight stay in one of its 17 bedrooms.

The hotel was transformed by Tim & Stefa Hart back in 1980, when Stefa was express ing her talent for interior design working alongside Nina Campbell.

Today, Stefa has exclusive responsibility for keeping all of the hotel’s bedrooms and communal areas updated and redecorated, ensuring their look and feel is commensurate with Hambleton Hall’s reputation as the area’s indeed, one of the UK’s most enjoyable country house hotels for those seeking luxury and comfort.

Meanwhile, Tim is responsible for the design and upkeep of the hotel’s beautifully

kept gardens, and well-stocked wine cellar, working alongside sommelier Dominique Baduel. Graeme Matheson is the hotel’s Restaurant Director and alongside General Manager Chris Hurst, each member of the team is responsible for ensuring the welcoming, friendly feel of the place.

Hambleton Hall’s dining experience remains among the best in the country and its restaurant has held a Michelin star since 1982 in fact, it has retained its star year after year for longer than any other restaurant in the UK. Chef Director Aaron Patterson is an absolute superstar, having trained under Raymond Blanc and now leading a brigade at the top of its game. One of the country’s best dining rooms, excellent accommodation, and a superb feel. Hambleton remains truly magnificent. n

Hambleton Hall remains a favourite for diners looking for comfortable accommodation...

Also highly commended...

n Beech House, Clipsham: The Olive Branch first opened its doors in 1999, two years after its closure. Under Ben Jones though its reinvention created what is easily one of the country’s best pubs. Diners would travel from all over the UK to expe rience The Olive Branch’s food, so creating its six comfortable bedrooms in the building across the road from the restaurant made great sense. Beech House opened in 2003 and provides accom modation commensurate in look, feel and comfort.

Tel: 01780 410355, www.theolivebranchpub.com.

n The George of Stamford: For over 900 years now, The George of Stamford has offered a proper coaching inn welcome to guests travelling up and down what we now know as the A1. The place has 45 bedrooms, classicallystyled, with lots of olde-worlde charm. As for its oak-panelled restaurant, few places feel as comfortable and smart. With its oak panelling and mullion windows, it’s like dining in a private member’s club or in the Palaces of Westminster!

Tel: 01780 750750, www.georgehotelofstamford.com.

n Barnsdale Lodge, Rutland: 46 luxurious bedrooms, a great location and friendly feel are all hallmarks of Barnsdale Lodge, as is its excellent dining which makes the most of local food producers.

Tel: 01572 724678, www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

In

are in...!

October we asked our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, cafés, food and drink producers. The votes have been counted and the results

2022’s

HAMBLETON HALL has already taken this year’s award as Rutland & Stamford’s favourite Restaurant with Rooms and back in 2008 one of its chefs, Julian Carter, approached owner Tim Hart with a sugges tion they go into joint partnership creating an artisan bakery to supply not only the hotel but other businesses in the area, and the public too.

The rest is history, including April’s opening of a new, larger bakehouse adjacent to the A1 on the site of the old Ram Jam Inn. This has allowed the company to scale up production, to satisfy demand for its ‘slow bread,’ which is more flavoursome and digestible, eschewing the mass production

methods which have ruined bread and caused many to struggle to digest gluten since the 1960s when industrial techniques (known as The Chorley Wood method) were developed.

Today Hambleton Bakery has six shops including its previous bakehouse which is still in use producing cakes and teatime treats. Its bread, meanwhile, remains popular with over 150 wholesale customers as well as the public.

“I wanted to be a British baker and make British products,” says Julian. “But I wanted to modernise the way we do it, with artisan bakers, skilled chefs and confectioners.” n

Also highly commended...

n Gates Farm Shop, Rutland: Opening in September 2019, Gates Garden Centre added a farm shop to its already impressive retail space, dedi cating 12,000sq ft of space to over 4,000 carefully chosen products with local provenance and with quality in mind. The butchery is run by Hambleton Farms and sells meat reared on Gates’ own farm. You can also bottle your own milk from a vending machine, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. Elsewhere there’s a wide selection of bread and cakes from local bakeries including Hambleton Bakery, loose-fill nuts, seeds and pulses, plus a ‘squeeze your own’ peanut butter and orange juice service. Tel: 01664 454309 www.gatesfarmshop.co.uk

n Farmer Lou, Rutland: From farm, to you, via Lou... pork, lamb, beef, poultry plus pies, cheese, eggs and more right from the farm gate. Louise Fitzhugh launched the business in 2012 and has seen it grow ever since, probably because locals love it so much! Tel: 07807 748352 www.farmerlou.co.uk.

n Otters Deli, Rutland: Smoked cheese, meat and fish, plus oils, balsamics, pastas and more. Otters was established in 2011 and moved to new premises a year or two later when it outgrew its Mill Street home, and relocated onto the High Street. Otters works with its Suffolk smokehouse partners to produce beauti fully flavoured British food. Tel: 01572 756481, www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk.

In October we asked our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, cafés, food and drink producers. The votes have been counted and the results are in...!

Best

Drinks

WHAT AN AMAZING PROSPECT! Rutland’s very own wine, produced by Tim & Zoe Beaver at The Rutland Vineyard in Ketton.

English wine has achieved huge recognition recently as the climate which was traditionally experienced in the Champagne region of France has gradually moved north to the UK.

The Rutland Vineyard was planted in May 2021, with some 13,500 vines and a further 3,000 waiting to be planted, stuck in a cold storage thanks to Brexit.

Vines necessitate about five years to establish so currently the couple are working with existing vineyards to curate their own ‘white-

label’ blend, before producing their first home-grown wines from 2023’s grapes for sale in 2024. For their first bottling they anticipate about a 40% yield then in subsequent years, they’ll produce their own white, red and sparkling wines here in Rutland.

For now you can sit in the vineyard’s tasting barn, enjoy Tim & Zoe’s wine overlooking rows of vines and toast what is definitely the beginning of something really good indeed!

Find

Also highly commended...

n Belvoir Fruit Farm, Grantham: Pev Manners resurrected a childhood favourite his mum’s elderflower cordial in 1984, and has gradually grown his range to include over 50 premium soft drinks. Tel: 01476 870286, www.belvoirfarm.co.uk.

n Multum in Parvo Gin: About as Rutland as you can get, Multum Gin Parvo is a range of local spirits created by Rutland siblings Chaz Ellis and Hayley Cook, along with Hayley's husband Tim. As well as Rutland Dry Gin, the company offers its Strawberry & Rutland Lavender and Earl Grey & Honey flavours, as well as Migration and Sloe Dance versions too. With Katie Cardew branding and brand photography by Shutterbox, it’s a real local product!

Tel: 01572 498720, www.multumginparvo.com.

n Two Chimps Coffee: Formerly a couple of photographers, Laura and Andrew put down their cameras and picked up on a trend towards really good coffee, founding their business which hand-roasts speciality coffee back in 2016.

Tel: 01572 774389, www.twochimpscoffee.com.

n Warner Edwards Gin: Incredibly popular, with a wide range of flavoured gins, Warner Edwards was founded by Tom & Tina Warner in 2012. www.warnersdistillery.com.

In the KITCHEN

Sssh! Don’t tell anyone, but this is the easiest and most impressive looking showstopper you’ll ever create for visitors over Christmas and New Year!

CHOCOLATE & HAZELNUT SNOWFLAKE

Preparation Time: 25 minutes + chilling. Cooking Time: 35 minutes. Serves: 8. 2 x 320g packs Jus-Rol Puff Pastry Sheet • 100g hazelnut chocolate spread 50g chopped roasted hazelnuts • 1 free range medium egg, lightly beaten • Icing sugar, for dusting

Unroll both of the pastry sheets and cut a 20-22cm circle from each (save the offcuts to make tarts, cheese twists or palmiers). Put one pastry circle on a sheet of baking parchment and cover one side evenly with hazelnut chocolate spread. Sprinkle over 1⁄2 the hazelnuts, leaving a 1cm border around the edge. Put the second pastry circle on top, pressing lightly around the border to seal.

Put the lid of a small jar (about 4-5cm in diameter) in the centre of the pastry (so you don’t cut through it), then use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into quarters (excluding the central circle). Cut down the centre of each quarter and then repeat. You should have 16 equal strips of pastry attached to the centre. Take two strips next to each other and twist them away from each other three times. Press the ends together in a point, to seal. Repeat all the way around the circle – you should now have 8 snowflake ‘arms’. Slide the snowflake, on its parchment, onto a baking sheet; chill for 30 minutes. 4 Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Lightly brush the egg all over the top of the snowflake. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and puffed up. Allow to cool, then dust with icing sugar and sprinkle over the remaining hazelnuts to serve. n

Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

In the KITCHEN

IRISH CREAM FUDGE

Preparation Time: 20 minutes + cooling and chilling. Makes about 30 pieces. 397g can condensed milk • 150ml whole milk • 425g light brown soft sugar 115g unsalted butter • 100ml Baileys The Original Irish Cream • Large pinch of salt 100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped.

Line a 20cm x 20cm baking tin with parchment. Put the milks, sugar and butter in a large, nonstick saucepan and warm over a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Put a sugar thermometer in the pan and turn up the heat a little, bringing the mixture to a moderate bubble. Stir continuously until the thermometer reaches 113-115°C or ‘soft-ball stage’ (this should take about 15 minutes). Take the pan off the heat and set aside for five minutes.

Stir the Irish cream and salt into the mixture. Using electric beaters set to a medium speed, beat for about 10 minutes until you have a thick mixture that’s starting to come away from the sides of the pan. (You can also do this with a wooden spoon, beating for about 15 minutes.) Tip the mixture into the lined tin, spreading it out evenly. Cool to room temperature, then cover and chill for an hour.

Melt the chocolate in a bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water, stirring until smooth. Meanwhile, put a large sheet of baking parchment on the work surface. Turn out the fudge and trim the edges to neaten, then cut into squares about 3cm x 3cm. Dip 1⁄2 of each square of fudge in the chocolate. Leave to set on the parchment, chilling again briefly if needed. n

Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

A delicious festive twist on fudge... you could give this to visitors over the festive season... or you could just pull up the drawbridge, light the fire and scoff this Baileys fudge with a good book!

A Highland whisky to raise a toast to the New Year...

Pure water running down from the Cairngorms and a whiff of heather help to make this a dram to remember!

If you’re looking for a top quality single malt to raise a glass and bid farewell to 2022, this is the one! Distilled at the foot of the Cairngorms, it’s sweet and syrupy, with the taste of honey and heather. Aged 15 years, it enjoys a price point that won’t leave you agonising over whether to open it, but will still give you a real treat. ‘Slainte!’

£44.95 / 70cl / 43% ABV,

The Wine Cellar

5, 4, 3, 2, 1: Count down to 2023 with some fabulous fizz, here are our favourites!

1. Not a year goes by without a blind taste test in the tabloids which declares an Aldi budget Champagne better than more expensive options. Monsigny is actually pretty decent though, £14.99 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV.

2. For a good mid-range Champagne, Mumm’s the word... its Cordon Rouge edition was adorned with a red ribbon that has paid homage to the Legion of Honour since 1876. Fine bubbles and enticing white and yellow fruitiness, £39 / 75cl / 12% ABV.

3. A high-end offering from Waitrose. This vintage Dom Pérignon from 2012 offers apricot, and a toasty finish for those seeking the ultimate expression of Champagne, £195 / 75cl / 13% ABV.

Wine of the Month

Rutland Vineyard’s Sparkling Blanc de Blancs £29 / 75cl / 12% ABV, Wine of the month? Wine of the year, more like...! This spectacular fizz is produced by the Rutland Vineyard, based at Ketton, and has taken two years to create. Bright white gold with a fine, sustained bead and mousse. Clean and fresh on the nose, white pepper and dried herbs, with a vibrant and complex palate of citrus and apple. An absolute must for New Year celebrations! n Available from The Rutland Vineyard, £29, Ketton, PE9 3RJ or buy online at www.the rutland vineyard.com.

Local distillery Warner’s is renowned for its alcoholic spirits, but the company also caters brilliantly for those who want to raise a glass on New Year’s Eve but get a head start on ‘Dry January.’ With no alcohol to cover its modesty, the spicy base, herbal hit, citrus edge and peppery finish gives it the recognisable kick of a top-shelf spirit. Distilled with lemon thyme, lemon verbena and water drawn from the spring on the family’s farm. £18 / 70cl / 0% ABV, www.warners distillery.com.

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.

All the taste, but without a headache!

SPACE FOR A FAMILY to

CELEBRATE

Festive preparations are underway for Kate and Philip’s last Christmas in their village property, an 18th century family home in Kings Cliffe...

Words: Rob Davis.

THE DETAILS

West Street, Kings Cliffe

Location: Peterborough 22 mins; Stamford 16 mins; Uppingham 20 mins; Corby 17 mins.

Provenance: C18th Grade II listed Georgian property modernised by current owners.

Rooms: Three receptions, currently arranged as living kitchen and garden room, living room, snug. Five bedrooms with two bathrooms.

Guide Price: £1,000,000.

Find Out More: Fine & Country, Oundle PE8 4BA.

Telephone: 01832 808 008 www.fineandcountry.com.

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK a lot like Christmas in Kate & Philip Durban’s home in the village of Kings Cliffe. The decorations are out and there’s a tree awaiting decoration in the family room of the property, where the couple spend most of their time.

Located on West Street, it’s a handsome Grade II listed Georgian property, with a datestone indicating that parts of it date back to 1702, although later additions have made, not least from 2000, when Kate incorporated the adjacent property next door and created a new larger kitchen. Most recently, the couple have enlisted Stamford’s QKS to create the garden room adjacent to the kitchen, where they spend most of their time because, Kate says, it’s the very heart of the home.

One of the nicest aspects of West Street is the sensitivity with which the couple have modernised the house without compromis ing its character. Most rooms have been treated to a sympathetic neutral shade enhancing the house’s ability to soak up natural light and making the place feel light and homely.

Main: The property’s red drawing room and its wood burner is ideal for putting your feet up over the season, whilst entertaining is a cinch thanks to the living kitchen.

The exception, though, is the living room, which sports a warm and welcoming cranberry red colour. Though the couple spend most of their time in the de rigueur living kitchen, they’ll retreat to the living room with a glass of Bailey’s to enjoy a festive tipple in front of one of two open fires in the property, enjoying the calm before the festive storm.

With four children now in their 20s, the couple are looking to downsize from their nice big five-bedroom family home with its generous garden to somewhere a little bit smaller, and in the process they’ll be relocating to Norfolk, nearer to a few relatives.

Of course, Christmas is a time when the offspring return home to mum and dad like some seasonal migration because, let’s face it, nobody does Christmas lunch like mum. That means over the next few weeks, the house will be full of festive cheer... and people!

Happily, that big living kitchen is the ideal place to entertain. The Küchen Kraft kitchen is every bit as well-engineered and efficient a place to cook as it umlaut would suggest, having two Siemens ovens, an induction hob, a Fisher & Paykel fridge, plus an additional wine fridge, a Quooker hot tap and an integrated dishwasher so Philip doesn’t get stuck with a load of washing-up.

There’s a smaller snug on the ground floor too, as well as a study. An additional office adjacent to the property is where Philip has his architectural practice, and where he works as a psychotherapist.

The west wing of the property used to be arranged over three floors, just like the rest of the house, but alongside their renovation of the living kitchen, the couple created a double-height vaulted master bedroom with adjacent bathroom and lofty ceilings.

>> There are two additional bedrooms on the second floor of the original property and two further bedrooms plus a shower room on the second floor, too.

To the exterior of the property, there’s a substantial and mature garden, which is completely enclosed, safe and sound for the property’s four-legged resident. Speaking of which, the house is a tennis-ball’s throw from Fineshade Woods with its wonderful dog walking opportunities and a café at the end of a three-mile winter sortie.

“We are right in the very heart of the village surrounded by lovely stone buildings, with everything on the doorstep,” says Kate. “It’s a very vibrant rural community with a lot of amenities such as a primary school, a shop, a bakery, a church and a brand-new modern sports centre, all within an easy walk.”

“It’s a location which offers the chance to live in a friendly village whilst being just a short drive from Stamford, Peterborough and Uppingham. We absolutely love the place and it offers really versatile accommodation, but it’s also a large property for just us, so we’re hoping its next custodians will be a family who will breathe fresh chaos into it and love the place as much as we have!” n

n Main Street, Clipsham

Guide Pride: £850,000

Superbly renovated and reconfigured single-storey village home finished to an exacting standard, with 29-foot open plan living kitchen, master bedroom with en suite, two further double bedrooms, private driveway and large rear garden. www.jamessellicks.com

n Gretton, Rutland

Guide Price: £850,000

Substantial detached family home with three well-proportioned reception rooms, and four double bedrooms. Large, private rear garden and enjoying magnificent 180 degrees views over the Welland Valley to the front. www.murrayestateagents.co.uk

n St. Mary's Street, Stamford Guide Price: £1,700,000

Stunning Grade II* listed, 5-bedroom family home brimming with original features, enjoying a private courtyard garden and separate garage, situated close to the heart of Stamford. Three reception rooms, kitchen, utility. www.kingwest.co.uk

Moving home with clarity

Moving home with clarity

Downsizing, upsizing, and relocating are among the top reasons to move house, and whilst changes to economic and political landscapes might present additional challenges, they are largely background noise for those who need to move in the coming year. This said, buying under pressure when there is uncertainty in the market can lead to mistakes, and paying over the odds can leave homeowners exposed to potential risks.

Downsizing, upsizing, and relocating are among the top reasons to move house, and whilst changes to economic and political landscapes might present additional challenges, they are largely background noise for those who need to move in the coming year. This said, buying under pressure when there is uncertainty in the market can lead to mistakes, and paying over the odds can leave homeowners exposed to potential risks.

With a rapidly moving mortgage market and increasing disparity in property pricing, the market has become a minefield for buyers to navigate with the confidence that they are buying the best property at the best possible price.

With a rapidly moving mortgage market and increasing disparity in property pricing, the market has become a minefield for buyers to navigate with the confidence that they are buying the best property at the best possible price.

Is it a buyers’ or sellers’ market?

Is it a buyers’ or sellers’ market?

Around Stamford and Rutland there is a continued shortage of prime properties for sale and previously this shortage was cited as a reason for rapidly rising prices. However, in the current market, whilst average property prices have continued to grow over the past 12 months, the rate of growth has slowed considerably as the property market reacts to wider factors at play.

Around Stamford and Rutland there is a continued shortage of prime properties for sale and previously this shortage was cited as a reason for rapidly rising prices. However, in the current market, whilst average property prices have continued to grow over the past 12 months, the rate of growth has slowed considerably as the property market reacts to wider factors at play.

As there remains to be a distinct lack of property available on the market this

As there remains to be a distinct lack of property available on the market this

slowdown of property price growth doesn’t necessarily place us in a market where buyers have more power than sellers. It does mean that there might be greater room for negotiation, but as the best properties will always demand a premium, there is a fine balance to strike.

slowdown of property price growth doesn’t necessarily place us in a market where buyers have more power than sellers. It does mean that there might be greater room for negotiation, but as the best properties will always demand a premium, there is a fine balance to strike.

How to decipher what to pay

How to decipher what to pay

With so many external factors at play, assessing the true value of a property, particularly one that is highly desirable and seldom available to buy, can be challenging.

With so many external factors at play, assessing the true value of a property, particularly one that is highly desirable and seldom available to buy, can be challenging.

Certain types of properties, or the specific location they enjoy, are always going to be in short supply in any market and, as such, will always achieve strong prices due to their scarcity value. However, these are the exception, not the norm. It is usually only worth paying a premium price if you are sure that the home you are acquiring truly is ‘best in class’; therefore, the premium paid at the time of purchase should still apply when you eventually come to sell it again.

Certain types of properties, or the specific location they enjoy, are always going to be in short supply in any market and, as such, will always achieve strong prices due to their scarcity value. However, these are the exception, not the norm. It is usually only worth paying a premium price if you are sure that the home you are acquiring truly is ‘best in class’; therefore, the premium paid at the time of purchase should still apply when you eventually come to sell it again.

Navigating the local market

Navigating the local market

Forming sound purchasing decisions in a time of uncertainty is a complex challenge. Buyers need to think about how they are

Forming sound purchasing decisions in a time of uncertainty is a complex challenge. Buyers need to think about how they are

approaching their moving plans and may benefit from seeking independent advice. Before starting a property search and negotiations, having a circle of trusted advisers such as a solicitor, surveyor and property finder can be hugely beneficial. It ensures you receive objective advice from people working in your best interests who can, in turn, give you clarity and confidence that the price you are paying is not too much.

approaching their moving plans and may benefit from seeking independent advice. Before starting a property search and negotiations, having a circle of trusted advisers such as a solicitor, surveyor and property finder can be hugely beneficial. It ensures you receive objective advice from people working in your best interests who can, in turn, give you clarity and confidence that the price you are paying is not too much.

In a rapidly changing market, Garrington offers unparalleled expertise and market insight for clients wanting to make clear and confident purchasing decisions.

In a rapidly changing market, Garrington offers unparalleled expertise and market insight for clients wanting to make clear and confident purchasing decisions.

If you would like to learn more about how a Property Finder can support you in all matters relating to property, please contact Garrington for a no obligation initial discussion.

If you would like to learn more about how a Property Finder can support you in all matters relating to property, please contact Garrington for a no obligation initial discussion.

Tel. 01780 408377. Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

Tel. 01780 408377. Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

Kate Vincent local Property Finder for Garrington highlights some of the risks and challenges facing homebuyers in the year ahead.

Kate Vincent local Property Finder for Garrington highlights some of the risks and challenges facing homebuyers in the year ahead.

Kate Vincent Garrington

WINTER WARM UP YOUR

Mulberry and red shades to warm up your reception rooms, from some of our favourite soft furnishing brands...

Chair upholstered in Pera Linen in Ochre, Cushion, Izmir in Indigo and Curtains Muza in Spice from the East to West collection by GP & J Baker.

Chair upholstered in Pera Linen in Ochre, Cushion, Izmir in Indigo and Curtains Muza in Spice from the East to West collection by GP & J Baker.

To make the best of these fabrics, seek out one of the county’s leading interior design specialists to create bespoke soft furnishings and decoration for your interiors...

Above: Tree Poppy fabric on chair, in red/forest colourway, Colefax & Fowler.

Top/Right: Ravello fabrics from Clarke & Clarke.

Right: Hutton Plaid, Colefax & Fowler.

Blind and chair cushion in Minack Check, brick colourway; Lamorna Check fabric on chair, red colourway; window seats in Hardy Stripe beige and cushion in Sidbury, red. All Colefax & Fowler.

Stamford & Rutland Interiors: Broughtons: Leicester, 0116 2341888,www.broughtons.com. Delcor Interiors: Stamford, 01780 762579, www.delcor.co.uk. Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors: Oakham, 01572 722345, www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk. H-Works: 01780 754605, www.hworksdesign.co.uk. Hunters of Stamford: 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk. Sarah Harding Interiors: Uppingham, 01572 823389, sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

Please note availability of brands and ranges at the above design studios subject to variation.

Cushions in Morris & Co Strawberry Thief fabrics.

1. Aby velvet criss-cross throw, natural 220x230cm, from Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors, Mill Street, Oakham. Elizabeth Stanhope, Oakham 01572 722345, www.elizabethstanhopeshop.com.

2. Brontë by Moon merino throws, 140 cm x 185 cm. From a selection at Sarah Harding Interiors, Uppingham, £various. Sarah Harding Interiors, 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk

3. Kubu

basket

to facilitate easy carrying, 40cm x 28cm, from Hunters Interiors.

Hunters Interiors, 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

4.

Hunters Interiors, 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

log

with finger holes

Kibo Narrow Stool, the perfect place to set your cup of coffee or tea down on, or your copy of Pride. Measures 50x20x46cm.

Beautiful wool blanket in a herringbone print with large cream tassel fringing, measuring 130cm wide by 170cm long. Beautifully presented with a luxury Kilburn & Scott ribbon, from Gates Garden Centre, £59.99, 01664 454309, www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

William Yeoward furniture and cushions including Indus, 95 x 40cm, £95.

Console Lamp

Kristiana lamp in slate, base £495, Empire shade in cream, £215.

Mohair Throw

Brontë by Moon throw, shown here in blue dusk, 185mm x 140mm, £155.

WINTER at HOME

Beautiful design-led products to ensure your winter home is cosy and beautiful throughout the season, all from Uppingham’s Sarah Harding Interior...

Branch D’Olive

Feather/Cloud scent, room spray £21; diffuser £29; soap £6.

Glass Tumblers

In sky blue, £35, for four. candles, £10/ea.

Cereal Bowls

Sky blue and ombre designs, £34.95/four.

Sarah Harding Interiors, Market Place, Uppingham, LE15 9QH. Call 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk.

Rustic Horse Figure

Crafted in wood, approx 30cm tall, £52.50.

William Yeoward Paint

Water based, excellent coverage, £82/five litres, £32/one litre.

SARAH HARDING INTERIORS

Residential Care Dementia Care Nursing Care

Quality of life in the heart of Oakham...

Residential, dementia, nursing or respite care.

Luxury facilites including cinema and library. Landscaped gardens and café/bistro/bar.

Outstanding, personalised care, no hidden costs.

For a personal, no obligation tour around our beautiful new home, call 01572 494770

Aspen Manor Care Home Barleythorpe Road Oakham LE15 6GL info@aspenmanorcarehome.co.uk www.aspenmanorcarehome.co.uk

The Old Station, Wing Road, Manton LE15 8SZ 01572 453116 | info@englishlimestonecompany.co.uk www.englishlimestonecompany.co.uk

Bespoke Architectural stone masonry and building materials in limestone, Ironstone and Sandstone and an excellent advisory service to accompany it.

The premier supplier of stonemasonry for Stamford & Rutland English Limestone Company

YOUR FEET THE WORLD at

Rachel Bassill has the world at her feet, with 28-years experience of advising clients on the purchasing of rugs, providing restoration, specialist cleaning and valuation services too. Each one is a visual reflection of its provenance, expressing the history and culture of the country of its origin...

STAMFORD’S Rachel Bassill has the world at her feet, both figuratively and literally. With over 28 years of experience, an art school degree in woven textiles, with 10 years provenance as a retailer of rugs in Stamford and Rutland, and with the industry’s very best names in her book of contacts. She’s definitely the area’s and probably among the country’s foremost experts in the purchase, restoration and valuation of rugs.

Our interview takes place as Rachel is en route to London, a weekly occurrence to visit clients, other restorers and washhouses with whom she has curated excellent work ing relationships.

This facilitates Rachel’s access to thousands of off-market rugs in addition to the several hundred or so examples she has in stock in her Stamford studio, a larger premises which she’s occupied for four years, having moved from her smaller and quaint but rather impractical previous premises which over looked Uppingham’s Market Place.

“The term rug is overused, really,” says Rachel. “It’s come to mean carpeting that’s loose, rather than wall-to-wall, and to encompass runners, doormats and modern machine-made rugs.”

“A more precise definition from our point of view is a hand-woven rug, in materials like wool, silk or artificial silks cotton or bamboo-based ‘silks’ though not one in man-made fibres like acrylic.”

“‘Real’ rugs are usually from Persia, India, Afghanistan or caucasian in origin, usually over a century old, although there are some modern rugs with a desirable provenance.”

“Historically, the design of a rug was highly localised and intrinsically linked with the culture of its creators. But throughout the 20th century, they became home furnishings in their own right, and stylistically, ceased to stick rigidly to precedents established in their place of origin.”

Rachel works locally in Stamford & Rutland, and in London, but also in Holt, North Norfolk, and around the country too. In the unlikely event that she can’t source the rug

that her client wants from her contacts, she’s also able to commission a bespoke rug too.

Rachel’s rugs range from ‘doormat-sized’ examples to pieces up to seven metres in size and from less than a hundred pounds to tens of thousands of pounds, depending on the provenance.

A couple of days a week Rachel performs restoration work, working to repair holes, missing threads and damaged fringes or discolouration, for example. The work is painstaking, specialised and of course it’s completed entirely by hand.

“All of the rugs we provide are designed to be walked on; enjoyed on the floor day to day. We do, however, offer a professional cleaning service which we advocate every five to 10 years in order to prolong your rug’s life and ensure it retains its value.”

“Cleaning a rug is incredibly specialised and the techniques vary dramatically depending on weave, material and types of dye, so an evaluation and a professional clean also comes with an insight into your rug’s provenance!”

“William Morris remarked that you should never have anything in your home that you didn’t know to be useful or believe to be beautiful. Well, we’re home to products which are as beautiful as they are functional, often hand-made by real craftspeople and often possessing real history and culture, which is literally woven into their fabric.” n

n The Rug Studio is based The Courtyard, just off Brownlow Street in Stamford, and has premises in London and Holt. For more information on the sale, restoration and repair of rugs, call 01780 239594 or visit www.therugstudio.co.uk.

PRACTICAL, SUSTAINABLE, BEAUTIFUL

Images: Dean Fisher, deansaerialphotography.co.uk.

AT THIS TIME OF YEAR, it’s common to look to the future. A new year beckons with its unfulfilled potential and its unrealised possibilities. Oliver and Charlotte Penn are also looking to the future as the order books for their timber-framed structures are already looking really healthy. And their clients, too, are looking forward to enjoying their new garden rooms, extensions, kerb appeal-enhancing porches and carports, all due for completion in 2023 and all made in the company’s workshops from beautiful, sustainable oak.

“It’s 10 years since Oliver set up his business as a joiner,” says Charlotte. She’s speaking to us from the couple’s beautifully converted 100-year old barn, rescued from dilapidation by Oliver using timber-framed building techniques and heritage joinery.

“Whilst he was working as a joiner, he always loved the traditional methods of timber framing, so when we set about transforming the barn Oliver really capitalised on his talent and has built a full oak frame incorporating sling brace trusses to support the roof and remove the stress on the old brick walls. After we’d completed our own home, we set up a new business specialising in the creation of timber-framed buildings.”

“The plan was to keep the general joinery and construction business running alongside. However we’ve experienced such demand and such a warm response to the style and quality of the buildings that we have closed the other business and are concentrating purely on Top Barn Timber Frames.”

“In line with such interest, we’ve taken on a couple of new members of staff and a new partner, James. James learnt timber framing from his Dad and has worked at some of the largest framing companies in the country so brings a wealth of experience with him and enables us to run two teams of staff to keep multiple projects progressing. We’ve now got over 30 years collective experience in the company of creating timber-framed structures, as well as our junior staff coming through the ranks. We’re looking forward to an exciting and busy 2023.”

To say that the foundations of Oliver and Charlotte’s company, Top Barn Timber Frames, is rooted in traditional techniques, materials and workmanship, the company is surprisingly relevant to the 21st century. >>

Opposite: Top Barn’s structures are made in the company’s workshops and then assembled on site.

Beautiful, practical, sustainable and affordable... We think that Top Barn Timber Frames’ buildings are the future for many Lincolnshire people looking to enhance their home...

TOP BARN TIMBER FRAMES

“One of the biggest benefits of using traditional timber-framed construction techniques is the ability to pre-fabricate structures off-site in the company’s workshops...”

Right: The couple even married in the oak-framed barn they created for their own home.

>> For a start, there are few building materials more sustainable than oak. The company plants trees to replace those it uses, and the business is run entirely on renewable energy.

In addition, the glazing used in the company’s structures and new building materials that the firm is adopting such as its hempcrete –lime mortar and dense hemp fibre – means its buildings remain breathable, sustainable and energy efficient.

One of the biggest advantages, though, in using the traditional timber-framed construction techniques in which the company specialises is an ability to pre-fabricate structures off-site in the company’s workshops.

“Some clients already have an architect’s drawing ready to go, and other clients want us to produce technical drawings ourselves. Either way, we can produce millimetre-accurate drawings, and design beautiful structures, either adjacent to or completely independent of existing buildings.”

“Our bespoke structures are pre-fabricated in our own workshops, which means we’re free of disruption from bad weather and can do trial build runs, ensuring when we get on site everything will fit perfectly together. We cut traditional mortice and tenon joints, and when we assemble the structure on site, everything is pegged together with timber pegs which are, again, made in house.”

Typically a garden room takes around four weeks to make in the workshop, then its timber frame can be erected in just a day. Roofing and glazing follows, along with other work like plastering, but the disruption on site is kept to a minimum.

Charlotte and Oliver’s own home is testimony to the potential of timber-framed construction methods and with every structure able to be built to completely bespoke specifications, there’s a terrific amount of scope in the construction method.

Timber-framed structures are especially suitable when adjacent to listed buildings, or those in conservation areas, and of course, they blend equally well and look great adjacent to new structures too.

“Our barn must be over 100 years old.” says Charlotte. “Oliver’s skills have enabled us to bring an old, run-down farm building back to life, and though our initial plan was to live here for a few years and move somewhere else, neither of us have any intention of moving anywhere else, we love the place so much!”

“We even hosted our wedding here, and we’ve brought our daughter into the world here. It’s a beautiful family home that we really love and the timber frame is taking all the support from the walls which means it will happily stand for another 100 years.”

“If we can offer the same solutions to our clients too, and create beautiful, high quality, sustainable structures that are energyefficient, and less hassle for our clients than conventional building methods, we think the future will be bright both for our business, and for this approach to construction, too!” n

or see www.topbarntimberframes.co.uk for a free, no obligation, pressure selling-free discussion about your project.

Find Out More: Top Barn Timber Frames produces garden rooms, timber-framed buildings, extensions, porches and carports using sustainable oak and time-honoured construction methods. Call 07501 087593

A supertruck from across the Atlantic Hummer EV

The bigger the better, say American motorists, but until now, the ridiculous dimensions and eye-watering running costs of the Hummer haven’t gone down as well with us. Will an electric version prove any more popular in the UK?

FOR AMERICANS, size is everything. Especially when it comes to cars, and especially especially when it comes to trucks. The Hummer has come to exemplify transatlantic motoring excess, but it didn’t sell well over here. Now, a London-based UK importer, Clive Sutton, is having another try at introducing the Hummer to Britain, but rather than being powered by a six-litre plus, eightcylinder diesel engine, this one is an EV. So it’s more sensible, right?

Not a bit of it. The all-electric Hummer provides 350 miles of range, which is quite practical for the real world. Less practical is the 1,000bhp is generates from its three electric motors. The first drives the front wheels, ideal for cruising. The two rear motors power each of the rear wheels, affording the car a greater ability to direct

power in slippery conditions and affording a total of 1,592 Nm of torque. In addition to its four-wheel drive system the Hummer also benefits from four-wheel steering, in cluding a ‘CrabWalk’ facility to improve low-speed manoeuvrability.

The vehicle also rides on sensible 18-inch alloy wheels, but these are wrapped in very knobbly 35” off-road tyres. In terms of its off-road ability, the vehicle can drive through water 71cm deep, but raising its air suspension into a special ‘Extract’ mode increases this by an additional 10cm, making it comparable in ability to Land Rover’s Defender. Unlike the latter, the Hummer is a strict five seater with no six or seven seat configurations available.

The Hummer EV is available, though, with a five-foot long pick-up truck bed. There’s also a small front-boot under the bonnet, too.

Where the Hummer’s true statement of intent is expressed, though, is its performance figures and cost. 60mph is reached and breached in just 3.5 seconds which, for a vehicle with a kerb weight of four tonnes that’s right, four tonnes is impressive, albeit potentially lethal in a crash, too.

Not only is it heavy, it’s also huge; 5.2 metres long, 2.3 metres wide and nearly two metres tall. For reference a Land Rover Discovery is 20cm shorter, 10cm narrower and 20cm lower. The number that really will cause Britain to shun the Hummer compared to its JLR competitors though, is the US car’s price... to you, just £350,000! Ouch! n

Price: £320,000 (Via import).

Powertrain: All electric, 1,000bhp, 1,592Nm torque, three electric motors, automatic transmission.

Performance: Top speed 171mph, 0-60mph 3.5secs. Range 350 miles.

Equipment: Removable roof panels, SuperCruise autonomous driving aid, Ultravision 18-camera surround view, CrabWalk all-wheel steer, air suspension, Bose audio system, leather, 13.4” driver screen. n

Porsche’s Style Edition

If there’s a nicer looking colour for a Porsche Boxster or Cayman, we’ve yet to see it! This month we’re looking at Porsche’s new 718 Style Edition models...

PORSCHE REALLY OUGHT TO BE CAREFUL Its 718 Cayman (coupé) or Boxster (convertible) models are so desirable, handle so well and offer such exhilarating performance that customers might well find themselves stand ing in the showroom agonising between a (much less expensive) Boxster... or a 911.

And this new Style Edition of the Boxster won’t do anything to quell the car’s immense desirability. It’s finished in Ruby Star Neo, with 20” wheels available in high-gloss white or black paint. Inside there’s black leather with crayon grey contrast stitching and other stylish details like the Porsche logo stitched into the headrests and stainless steel illuminated door sills.

So far, then, stylish details which only add to the Boxster or Cayman’s appeal. But this isn’t just a case of style over substance.

Porsche Boxster

Style

Both models feature the entry-level version of the 718’s engine, a turbocharged, fourcylinder unit generating 380Nm torque and 300ps power. And as standard both models feature Porsche’s six-speed manual gearbox for an engaging driving experience, although if you prefer, the company’s excellent sevenspeed PDK automatic is optional.

Edition 718

Price: £53,600 (On sale now).

Powertrain: 2.0 fourcylinder, six speed man ual or seven-speed auto.

Performance: Top speed 171mph, 0-60mph 5.1secs. WLTP 29.1mpg.

Cayman and Boxster models start at £47,700 and £49,700 respectively, with Style Edition versions commanding a £4,000 premium.

Nothing but nothing in the motoring world handles as well, looks as good, or has been coveted, by so many for so long, as a 911... so arguably, the latter still has the edge in terms of desirability. But if you’re keen to enjoy one of the most authentic and visceral sports cars on the market today, the 718 is just that... and it’s also great value, too! n

Dream of possibilities.

With the Porsche Macan.

Striking inside and out, the contemporary, dynamic and urban Macan stands out where others disappear. With extensive standard equipment, model-specific design features and, of course, typical Porsche performance, the Macan offers simply an irresistible driving experience. Opportunities to buy a car like this do not wait. Neither should you. Contact the Centre today to find out more.

The Gold Standard

The creativity and vision of this month’s couple shines through with a soft Champagne gold colour theme and a Mediterranean twist. Here’s to the vision that Rutland’s Wayne Pearson and Jo Ferraro had for their day!

Wedding Photographer: October James Photography, 07999 699619, www.octoberjames.com.

FROM A QUIET COSY PUB for their first date, to a low key proposal, Wayne Pearson and Jo Ferraro were happy and loved up. But if they were to marry, they’d want close family and friends around them, and a day that was intimate, happy and meaningful.

The thing is, Jo also has outstanding vision and an untamable sense of creativity, especially when given the opportunity to bring to fruition her vision of a day that would impress family & friends and provide lots of fun, smiles and joy as two people and two families came together as one.

The half-Canadian and half-Lancastrian Wayne has been living in the Rutland village of Brooke for a number of years, working as the CEO of several engineering companies for nearly three decades, with past commissions including the Nightingale hospitals created to fast-track treatment of patients during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Jo has worked for a number of high-end fashion clients including Church’s, the English creators of some very smart gents’ shoes, owned by Prada as the PA to the CEO. A superstar PA needs to be quick-thinking, unscrupulously organised and meticulous when it comes to detail.

As it happens, those are the same qualities a bride needs to plan a phenomenal wedding, and so, when Wayne proposed at their home in 2018, presenting Jo with a beautiful engagement ring, all talk of them being ‘happy as they are,’ and the idea of a small but meaningful day were, um, superseded. Instead the couple created a beautiful day with a soft white colour theme accented by Champagne gold and with a Mediterranean hint to reflect Jo’s Italian heritage.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS

WAYNE & JO PEARSON

“I couldn’t believe he was proposing, as we’d spoken about it often and concluded that we were happy as we were. I was stunned and could only giggle nervously, leaving him on a bit of a cliff-edge before replying ‘yes silly, of course!’”

The couple set their heart on a wedding in a small stately home near Northampton before viewing Kettering Park Hotel & Spa and finding themselves seriously impressed with the four-star hotel’s team, and their ‘can-do’ approach to bringing to fruition the couple’s vision for their day.

“I’m super-organised and so I created many briefing documents, spreadsheets and had many meetings to pull it all together,” says Jo.

Jo’s vision extended to her ideal dress and after visiting no fewer than 20 wedding dress shops, she visited Harrogate’s annual show, designed for the bridal industry rather than couples themselves, and found her stunning Demetrios gown, a fitted column dress with overskirt and layers of tulle and lace.

Ceremony & Reception: Kettering Park Hotel, 01536 416666, www.ketteringparkhotel.co.uk.

Wedding Dress: www.demetrios.com.

Bridal Hair: Lucy Locks, 07568 350004.

Makeup: Lucy Whitfield, 07858 316512.

Floristry: The Hiden Collective, Rutland, 01572 337394, thehidencollective.com.

Wedding Cake: Sweet Drops of Heaven, Wellingborough, 07943 170356, www.sweetdropsofheaven.co.uk.

Master of Ceremonies/Swing Vocalist: 07890 813703, www.nigeladair.com.

Harpist: Miriam Wilford, 07874 982934.

Wedding Invite Biscuits: The Kitsch Hen, www.the-kitsch-hen.co.uk. n

The couple’s two daughters, Lucy and Fabiana wore soft gold dresses by Goddiva whilst the groom opted for a bespoke tailored suit with monogrammed shirt and a black bow tie. The couple’s three flower girls looked very pretty in angelic white tulle dresses.

Wayne & Jo’s ‘invites’ were boxed bespoke cookies by Oakham’s Kitsch Hen presented in presentation boxes and iced with a ‘save the date’ message, plus a velvet coated card with details on, printed in gold leaf.

From buttonholes to table flowers and statement blooms, the couple opted for a pure white colour scheme with Old English roses and Chrysanthemums accented by soft green Eucalyptus.

>> The couple’s cake was created by Nasima Alam of Sweet Drops of Heaven, with four tiers and baroque icing. There was another cake of note on the day, too, presented to celebrate Jo’s mum’s birthday the day before the wedding.

Master of Ceremonies and swing singer Nigel Adair ensured all the wedding party entered to their own ‘theme tune,’ from Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop the Feeling for the flower girls and Bonnie Tyler’s Holding Out for a Hero for best man Gary, to Gold and 24ct Gold respectively for daughters Lucy and Fabiana... and finally Natalie Cole’s Everlasting Love for the couple themselves.

Confetti cannons and impeccable choreog raphy thrilled the guests and gave superstar photographers October James plenty of opportunity to capture every glittering detail.

“We loved the presentation of the day and the style,” says Jo. “Kettering Park and Nigel Adair were absolutely brilliant in particular but the very best thing of all was the warmth and happiness as both our families came together and celebrated. It was a very big, very jolly party, just as we wanted and the whole day made everyone smile!” n

Wedding Photographer: October James Photography, 07999 699619, www.octoberjames.com.

The very best thing of all about the day was the warmth and happiness as both our families came together and celebrated...!

NYE

PARTY

Our selection of stylish outfits for your New Years Eve Party

Orianne Sequin Dress,

Sequin Jumpsuit, £149.

Plisse Dress, £89.

Sequin Maxi Dress, £275.

Spot Bell Sleeve Dress, £99.

Sequin Pleat Dress, £179.

Chiffon Sequin Dress, £129.

Sequin Shirt, £95.

Metallic Cowl Neck Knit, £69.

Blouse,

New Year? New Smile!

THE DENTAL HEALTH & IMPLANT CENTRE REINVIGORATES A PATIENT’S CONFIDENCE

If your New Year’s Resolution is to go through 2023 beaming with happiness, take heart from a lovely story we’ve heard recently from a patient of the Dental Health Centre & Implant Centre in Grantham which saw her going from nervous and embarrassed to looking healthier and beaming with delight!

“THEY’RE IN A RIGHT STATE,” said Jo as she shuffled awkwardly in the dentist’s chair. “I’m sorry to say but I avoid the dentist because I’m a really nervous patient.”

Six months later, Jo is back in the practice, sporting a new hair style and beaming with confidence. Even she reckons she looks like a different person!

“It’s not just transformed my smile, it’s transformed my life. I’ve got more confidence and one of my friends didn’t believe the treatment I had was limited to just my smile, she thought I’d had a facelift, too!”

“Wanting a nice smile isn’t vanity; it goes much deeper than how you look. It’s how much you’re willing to smile in photos or when you’re out with friends. It’s about whether you want to express yourself with confidence or hide away.”

“Since I’ve visited The Dental Health & Implant Centre, I’ve even been on a date, and I’d never have dared to do that before. That’s the difference feeling confident brings to you.”

Jo first arrived at the practice with her hand over her mouth, not wanting even the dentist to see her teeth. Six of her front teeth had

previously been replaced with a bridge, and that repair had since failed and fallen off.

Appearance-wise it was obviously effecting her confidence, but it was effecting her in other ways too, not least the fact that she could only eat soft food a baguette or steak was definitely off the menu so there were health grounds for reinstating her smile as well as cosmetic ones.

Paula Parkes has 23 years experience working at The Dental Health & Implant Centre and as Treatment Coordinator, it’s her job to guide patients through the treatments on offer, explaining the difference betweens crowns, bridges, veneers, implants and so on.

Another really important part of her job, though, is reassuring those who have had bad experiences or hate visiting the dentist, making sure they’re sufficiently well-informed and transforming the relationship between patient and dentist from one of fear to one of favour.

“Dental practices have changed enormously over the years in terms of the technology and treatments we have on offer, but also in terms of how user-friendly they are,” say Paula. “It’s no good having patients who are too afraid to come and see us, and I can’t

think of a single patient we’ve not managed to ‘rehabilitate’ from one who fears the dentist to one who’s happy to sit in the chair.”

A full examination of Jo by practice owner and Principal Dentist Colin Sutton revealed that Jo’s upper teeth were failing, meaning that extractions, dentures or implants were among the options. Dentures, Jo said, were a definite no, and so after consultation, Jo, Colin and Paula together came to the conclusion that ‘All on Four’ creating implants and then installing bridge work onto them was the best option.

Precision implant treatment is a dental specialism, and one that Colin and the team are especially well-versed in. After a temporary fix of the bridge, Jo returned for her permanent implants and bridge to be created in the same appointment... Jo stepped out with a smile that changed her life.

“I’ve moved house since and it’s now a four-hour round trip to the practice, but it’s a trip I’m willing to make because I feel like I’m visiting friends, not just going to the dentist,” she says. “I’m full of confidence, I’m back to my old self and I’m so glad I had my treatment with Colin, Paula and the team!” n

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

THE LORD LIEUTENANT OF RUTLAND’S FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE

Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness (third right) with Dennis Wright, D Day veteran, holder of the Legion d’Honneur and guest of honour (whose 100th birthday was on December 1st). Dennis’s son Mr Richard Wright and Mrs June Wright are pictured, as are Air Marshal Philip Sturley and Mrs Michelle Sturley.

The

Lord Lieutenant

of Rutland’s Festival of Remembrance

OVER 250 PEOPLE enjoyed attending a drinks reception at Uppingham School Memorial Hall prior to Rutland’s first Remembrance Concert organised by Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness and her committee.

“I was delighted that this first Rutland Festival of Remembrance Concert raised awareness about the importance of remembrance, the realities of modern military life and fostered liaison between schools and military and non-military communities,” says Dr Furness.

“We had representatives from our two military barracks, RAF, all Rutland secondary schools, many veterans, leading members of the civic community and people of all ages from across Rutland. Counting performers there were about 500 people who attended the concert itself. The whole event was generously supported by Uppingham School, it was very warmly received and it raised a significant sum for the Rutland British Legion.” n

Images: Rob Davis.

Celebrating Tourism in the County at the Discover Rutland Ball

DISCOVER RUTLAND held its annual ball at Rutland Water Golf Course recently, with a drinks and canapé reception followed by a four-course meal and an evening of entertainment courtesy of Real Monsters and a disco.

Classical guitarist Steve Bean provided music during the drinks reception, whilst sponsors of the event included Oakham Ales, Bellwether Wines, The Olive Branch, Otters Fine Food, Hambleton Bakery, Oakham’s Wisteria Hotel, Multum Gin Parvo and Uppingham’s Falcon Hotel.

“Even event was first held in 2018 and was created to offer local people in the tourism industry an opportunity to come together to celebrate our county and recognise the hard work that goes into providing such a wonderful selection of quality attractions, accommodation, and places to eat,” says the tourist group, which aims to develop and grow a sustainable tourism economy in Rutland through brand awareness, income generation and partnership working. n

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

When Midnight Strikes

AS THE CLOCK STRIKES TWELVE, YOU’LL LOOK GREAT WITH THESE MIDNIGHT-BLUE INSPIRED PRODUCTS

1. Make New Year’s Eve a Night to Remember...

Like the 1980s disco group Shalamar, Guerlain’s Shalimar aims to make New Year’s Eve ‘a night to remember,’ with a floriental scent described as the perfume of temptation. Soft, voluptuous oriental floral notes are enveloped in a creamy vanilla embrace.

First launched in 1925, this special edition flaçon celebrates the scent’s timeless longevity.

£92/90ml, from John Lewis.

2. Midnight Recovery

Kiehl’s invites you to recover and restore your skin as you sleep with its Midnight Recovery cream, infused with essential Omegas 3 & 6 and botanical oils that restores your skin’s lipid barrier for visibly plumper skin by morning, £41/50ml.

3. Deep Relaxation

An ideal gift or a New Year’s Eve treat from Aromatherapy Associates, designed to relieve the mind and calm the body. Pour in a bath and inhale the scent, or use it as a massage oil. Aromatherapy Associates’ spa provenance makes it a proven and popular brand, £12.

4. Double Wear

Our ‘Go-To’ Mascara is Estée Lauder’s Double Wear. Created with Estée’s Smudge-Shield technology, with a Lash-Xtender brush to ensure each lash is able to resist high temperatures, humidity and smudging, £26.50, 6ml.

5. Keep your guy’s beard in check with Murdoch...

Hirsute chaps across the county will benefit from this neat set of beard grooming paraphernalia, which includes beard shampoo, moisturiser, beard oil and a dedi cated beard brush, as well as a guide written by the Redchurch Streetbased gentleman’s barbers shop, £50, from John Lewis.

6. Diptyque hand and hair gift set...

Diptyque presents this gift set, paying homage to its Eau Rose fragrance. The set contains hand cream and hair mist. The brand’s latest collection is in spired by shimmering constellations and starry nights, perfect for New Year’s Eve! £75, John Lewis.

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

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

TEETH STRAIGHTENING IN UPPINGHAM

With continuous advances in technology, orthodontic treatment is becoming more popular. The traditional metal braces and clear brace aligners like Invisalign are the top choices for straightening teeth.

FIXED BRACES

Fixed braces are made up of small brackets attached to each individual tooth and connected by a wire. Thicker wires are placed and adjusted overtime, creating a gentle pressure which gradually aligns your teeth to the desired position.

INVISALIGN

Invisalign offers more comfort and convenience with removable plastic aligners that can be taken out to eat, drink, brush your teeth, and floss. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible when they are being worn, so you can carry out your daily routine with confidence.

FACIAL AESTHETICS IN UPPINGHAM

Sometimes just a subtle change can make all the difference. At Market Place Dental Practice we offer facial aesthetic treatments to rejuvenate your appearance to bring back your smile.

ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS: The toxin is known to help your body ‘naturally’ retrain itself to help further reduce such things as frown lines.

DERMAL FILLER INJECTIONS: When injected with a very fine needle into the crease line, the gel creates volume under the wrinkles, lifting up and smoothing out lines.

BE YOUR OWN KIND OF BEAUTIFUL with

SKIN HEALTH and EMPOWERMENT

Charli Clarke named her business G&T Aesthetics, and those letters stand for Graceful and Tasteful respectively; that’s not the only thing the business stands for. Charli says that via her business she wants to promote skin health, to facilitate beauty from within, to empower women and to correct some of the mis-selling practices that some sectors of the beauty and aesthetics industry rely on…

‘WHAT’S YOUR PROBLEM?!?’ That’s the first question that much of the beauty and aesthetics industry as a whole poses to its potential customers.

It’s an approach which never sat comfort ably with Stamford’s Charli Clarke, who quickly observed that whatever ‘problem’ the industry could identify, or draw attention to, there was usually a magic potion or product backed up with a dollop of pseudo science to ‘fix’ their potential customer.

Charli states: “It’s difficult to separate our self-image from the beauty and aesthetics industry because the way we perceive ourselves is inextricably bound-up in our body confidence to some greater or lesser extent.”

“I pride myself on making it my professional duty to take the mindset of those who come to me and reset that relationship to a celebration of natural beauty, inspiring confidence while enhancing features.”

“I’ve become part-counsellor, part-aestheti cian, because I won’t accept that people are

‘flawed’, we should strive to celebrate our uniqueness.”

“It is for this reason that I don’t advocate the use of products or treatments without ensur ing they’re a perfect fit for each and every one of my patients. That means making sure everyone is aware of what lifestyle factors contribute to good skin health.”

“It also means making sure they’re aware of alternatives, costs, down time, and how long results will last. It’s important to be ethical and honest about the expectations a patient has, and to set a goal, rather than just ad ministering treatments.”

“Often there are several treatments or ways to achieve a particular aim, maybe at a different pace, so it’s important that my patients feel empowered by a thorough consultation; being informed gives you the power to make knowledgeable decisions.”

“Through continued professional develop ment, I offer not only a vast number of options, but also the latest, safest, and most ground-breaking techniques and technologies.”

“I carefully match the rheology of the products and devices implemented to the targeted concern.”

“I’m discerning when it comes to research and ongoing training, I trial everything, only using the products and treatments I can stand behind like Juvederm and Teoxane dermal fillers, adjuvant anti-wrinkle injections, high-quality polydioxanone cogs and threads, and RF micro-needling treatments – to stimulate the body’s own production of collagen – or medical-grade peels or cosmeceuticals from companies like PCA Skin, a cosmeceutical brand that improves the health of skin by changing it on a molecular level.”

“In addition to my consultative approach, I also offer unlimited aftercare, which is why my patients trust me and return time after time. The most valuable assets I can offer is my experience, expertise, and the promise of an ethical practice.”

“My 2023 resolution is to help my patients gain empowerment through results from their beauty and aesthetics experience, not a sales pitch exploiting insecurities.” n

Find Out More: Charli Clarke is the founder of G&T Aesthetics, based in central Stamford. Charli offers a wide range of treatments from RF micro-needling, laser hair removal, anti-wrinkle injectables and dermal fillers to PDO threads, and the use of leading cosmeceutical brand PCA Skin, as well as treatments for a whole array of aesthetic and wellbeing concerns. For a free, no-obligation discussion about your objectives, call 07802 237489 or see www.gtaesthetics.co.uk.

Technology is Revolutionising Healthcare with Robot-Assisted Surgery

It’s a cut above the rest: technology set to revolutionise surgery and transform our expectations of healthcare. Best of all, it’s available right now at The Park Hospital in Nottingham. This month, we speak with Consultant General Surgeon Mr Adam Brooks who is bringing robotically-assisted surgery to his patients, providing greater surgical dexterity and faster recovery times...

Words: Rob Davis.

TECHNOLOGY is at its best when it works in conjunction with the intuition and experience of a human being. Similarly, healthcare works best when a desire for the best patient outcomes is matched by an investment in the best facilities and equipment.

So it’s little wonder that Circle Health Group’s The Park Hospital is enjoying great success with one of its newest investments; robotically augmented surgery.

18 months ago, the hospital group invested in its Intuitive Systems Da Vinci X surgical system, where Consultant General Surgeon Adam Brooks uses the machine to help him perform abdominal wall surgical procedures such as hernia repairs and cholecystectomy (gall bladder removal).

The notion of ‘an operation done by a robot’ is a bit dramatic, and rather misleading. The robot is NOT performing the surgery, but rather works as an interface to enhance the surgeon’s vision and dexterity.

At all stages it’s the surgeon, augmented by technology, bringing to bear their experi ence, knowledge and intuition during the procedures.

“Using Da Vinci we can become technically more precise, well beyond the limitations of human dexterity, whilst retaining everything that makes a human surgeon… human,” says Adam.

“Traditionally, such procedures as those we are increasingly using Da Vinci for, were carried out with open surgery techniques, which give surgeons the whole range of movement.”

“From the early 1990s, surgeons began to favour laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques, with smaller incisions ensuring quicker recovery times and surgeons benefiting from 2x magnification of their vision, ensuring a better view of their patient.”

“Conventional laparoscopic techniques and instruments don’t provide the range of movement that conventional surgery facilitates. Da Vinci takes the best of both previous approaches and combines them.”

“The system utilises 3D high-definition video, so for the first time we can perceive depth. There are more points of articulation too, so we can work laparoscopically, but it’s still like having wrists that can rotate, plus fingers and hands that have a greater range of movement. The system’s magnification factor too is about 10x, so all of a sudden we can see, with incredible clarity, right down to individual blood vessels in the pancreas, for example.”

“One of the biggest benefits of the system, though, is its precision. The movement of the machine’s instruments are much more subtle, relative to my physical inputs at the controls, so we can be very nuanced in our gestures.”

“It is also a much more ergonomicallyfriendly way to work. As a surgeon I’m used to spending eight hours standing up, but with Da Vinci I’m sitting down, absolutely immersed, with close-up, 3D vision. Experiencing less fatigue is definitely beneficial for any surgeon.”

“It is certainly a different way to work, but the benefits are significant. I feel the system is a very good investment for ensuring the best patient outcomes, with smaller ports (incisions) and more nuanced movements meaning less pain and quicker recovery times for patients. That, in turn, will also result in reduced overnight stays.”

“I’ve been working alongside other consul tants, as in addition to general surgery, The Park Hospital also offers robotically assisted surgery for prostate cancer, colorec tal cancer and hysterectomy procedures. I’m very proud that The Park Hospital sees the investment as being good for patient outcomes, and recognise the investment by giving its surgeons the best equipment and facilities to work with.”

Circle Health Group was founded in 2004 and is now the UK’s largest independent hospital group, with 52 hospitals.

The Park Hospital has 66 en suite rooms, five state-of-the-art theatres and an intensive care unit.

Specialisms include general surgery, orthopaedic surgery, cardiac surgery, ophthalmology, gynaecology, urology, cancer care, cosmetic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, private GP services, as well as medical diagnostics with its CT, MRI, ultrasound & Xray services and its cardiac cath laboratory.

Robotically-augmented surgery is just one of the ways that Circle Health Group is

investing in better patient outcomes, and access to its service is now more flexible than ever.

The Park Hospital see patients on an insured and self-pay basis, and offers flexible finance options*, making treatment more affordable. That means accessing high-quality, consultant-led healthcare in a well-equipped modern private facility is now easier than ever. n

Find Out More: For a free no obligation chat call 0115 966 2000 or see www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/hospitals/the-park-hospital.

The Park Hospital, Nottingham, NG5 8RX.

* Terms and conditions apply, please enquire for further details.

WHAT DO THE

PATIENTS THINK?

By the end of January 2023, Consultant General Surgeon Adam Brooks believes the team at The Park Hospital will have performed abdominal wall surgery, augmented by the Da Vinci robot, on over 50 patients. So what does one former patient think of the technology?

“About 20 years ago I had a hernia repair using conventional surgery. Around a year and a half ago, I realised another hernia had developed. I’m a joiner by trade and though I wasn’t in any pain, I didn’t want to risk making it worse as I was waiting for surgery.”

“I’d been quoted a waiting list time of around two years, so instead I went for a consultation with Adam Brookes, who told me that he could repair my hernia the following week, at The Park Hospital, in Nottingham”

“During the consultation he advised that he would be utilising robotically-assisted surgery, and I was quite comfortable with that, reasoning that whilst the technology is very new, it would be accurate down to the sub-millimetre. The experience was the same as conventional surgery, but the scar left behind was much smaller than it was 20 years ago, and recovery was much faster.”

“I was able to walk into the hospital at 11 in the morning and walk out again the same day. I didn’t need to stay over and I felt really comfortable after the procedure.”

Mr W from Lincolnshire

Shown right is the patient cart of The Da Vinci X surgical robot system. The surgeon console provides the controls for the robot’s instruments, and provides 3D HD vision. The surgeon remains in control and benefits from assisted dexterity and a better view of their patient.

Mr Adam Brooks, left.

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