Stamford Pride October 2018

PRIDE

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STAMFORD

STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

£4.50

Fungi Foraging in Stamford

Our guide to discovering and identifying mushrooms

Autumnal Spooky Stories in Stamford

A few tall tales from this historic market town to keep you up at night

BUMPER

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WELCOME

W

ell, this year is just whizzing by, isn’t it? It seems like only yesterday that we were talking about visiting The Rutland Show. Suddenly, here we are in October talking about ghosts & ghouls and all things autumnal.

We’re easing you in gently to the cooler months. There is a lovely floristry feature to keep things bright; are you aware of just how many sunflowers are grown across the county each year? It’s phenomenal!

We’ve also had a catch up with Her Grace, the Duchess of Rutland about the latest news from Belvoir Castle and we have gone absolutely mushroom mad. After possibly the driest summer ever, the mushrooms took a little longer to appear, but thankfully, after a few healthy downpours we have seen them cropping up everywhere in all their magic.

You will also be able to feast your eyes on a very exciting revamped Wisteria Hotel in this issue. The new owners, Chris Newsham and Kristy Carey, have quite literally gotten rid of the old and transformed the new with an exciting new Hunter’s Bar and some simply stunning interiors.

Have a lovely October...

Editor, Rutland & Stamford Pride georgie@pridemagazines.co.uk 3

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CONTENTS

70

NEWS & EVENTS

HOMES & GARDENS

40

103 GARDENS The beautiful garden of

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4

WHAT’S ON Rutland & Stamford’s

best events.

HIGHLIGHTS 20 30 52

136

NEWS Our roundup of good news in and around the area.

FLOWER POWER The art of floristry

with Harriet Fenn.

THE BIG INTERVIEW Duchess of Rutland at Belvoir Castle.

MAD ABOUT MUSHROOMS We

look into the world of foraging.

136 SPOOKY STORIES A few local

FOOD & DRINK ghost tales.

46 58

DINING OUT The exciting new food

at The Wisteria Hotel, Oakham.

RECIPE A mushroom themed dish to get your teeth into this month.

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HOMES A seriously impressive property in North Luffenham.

Sandra and Jonathan Blaza.

LADIES & GENTLEMEN 112

WEDDING A couple who seemed to have their path written in the stars.

120 LADIES FASHION Stunning 128

coats and jackets from British company Butler Stewart.

BATHING IN STYLE A few stimulating bath products for you.

MOTORS

148 MOTORS The Mercedes AMG V8 is as impressive as it sounds.

BUSINESS & FINANCE

144 BUSINESS NEWS Local success.

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THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county.

Our circulation is to properties in the top three council tax bands - homes which are predominantly worth over ÂŁ300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content. In addition the magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents including Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, WHSmith Tesco, Asda, Co-Op and Morrisons.

Our in-house distribution team also works hard to hand-deliver the magazine to selected hotels and restaurants, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs.

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

Our magazines also have more social media fans than any other local magazine, and we are available to read free of charge, online on your tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website and via the Readly and Issuu platforms.

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

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

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

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

By supplying editorial or advertising copy to Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalent sized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion.

This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available.

Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

THE PRIDE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

Production Director: Ian Bagley.

Advertising Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

Telesales Director: Emily Brown.

Field Sales Director: Roberta Hall Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

Editor: Tilly Wilkinson.

Editor: Georgie Fenn.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Distribution: Joe Proctor.

Office Manager: Sue Bannister.

Account Manager: Lauren Chambers.

Sales Executives: Hannah Boyle, Charlotte Aiken, Tamer Hodgson

Pride Magazines Ltd., Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington, Boston, Lincs PE20 3QF

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

www.pridemagazines.co.uk | enquiries@pridemagazines.co.uk

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NEWS & EVENTS

Katie Cardew’s Magnificent Map A MAP OF RUTLAND FROM STAMFORD’S FAVOURITE ILLUSTRATOR...

RUTLAND Katie Cardew has released a print of her fantastic new map of Rutland featuring all of the county’s highlights. Katie Cardew Illustrations produces premium fine art prints, homewares and greeting cards, all starring Katie Cardew’s fantastically unique and stylised illustrations. Based in a studio nestled between the Rutland/Northamptonshire border, Katie has been producing beautiful illustrations for five years.

Katie started the business producing commissioned illustrations of houses, families, weddings, and illustrations for businesses and magazines. Her popularity went from strength to strength and the fine art print and homewares range grew organically, sitting beautifully alongside the commissioned work. n www.kcillustrations.co.uk

More players needed for local club in Stamford

FOR A LITTLE BIT OF FITNESS AND SOCIALISING, WHY NOT GET INVOLVED WITH A LOCAL SPORTS GROUP...

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STAMFORD A local sports group is on the lookout for new members as it plans to launch a second weekly night of 5-a-side indoor football. Stamford Indoor Football launched in January this year offering a weekly game of football but without the commitment to a league or team. Matches are held at the Borderville Sports Centre every Tuesday, but the group has become so popular that the organisers are looking to expand to a second night.

Danny Morgan, who founded the group, said it was a great option for those who want a casual game of football with

like-minded individuals.

“For some people, joining a team is a little intimidating, but sometimes you just fancy a casual game of football with others who don’t take it too seriously and to keep fit.

“There’s about 30 active members which means the 12 spaces on a Tuesday fill up pretty quickly. I’d like to open a second night so more people have a chance to play and so there’s a bit more choice around which night and time you want to play.” n For more information contact www.stamfordindoorfootball.co.uk danny.morgan4@btinternet.com

DATING APP REVEALS NEW STATISTICS

A new dating app called Toffee has revealed that many of the most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes in the UK have been to school in Rutland. Toffee Dating describes itself as 'the world's first dating app for people who were privately educated'. And it has just released a league table showing UK's most 'right-swiped' former students.

The app - essentially Tinder for private students - has picked out two schools from Rutland in its RUTLAND

top 20. Uppingham School made second on the list with 24,377 'right-swipes', while Oakham School came in at 10th with 20,484. The app was created by professional matchmaker Lydia Davis and has only been live for six weeks.

So there's still lots of potential for change in the rankings as it rises (or falls) in popularity. n Sound like your sort of app for dating? You can download it on the App Store at your own risk today!

Ros Canter for GB Team

LINCOLNSHIRE EVENT RIDER ROS CANTER IS HEADING TO THE WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES IN AMERICA

Huge success for the Stamford Library summer campaign!

STAMFORD Stamford Library has been forced to order some new children's books after the Summer Reading Challenge proved to be a huge success.The library manager Lea Rickard said 430 children had signed up to the challenge, which this year has been Beano themed and rewards pre-school and primary school aged children for reading six books during the Summer holidays.

The number who have signed up matches the library's previous record which is reassuring. n

RUTLAND It has been an exciting month for local event rider Ros Canter after the team was selected for the World Equestrian Games. Ros Canter will be heading to this year’s World Equestrian Games in Tyron, North Carolina with Caroline Moore and her own Allstar B. Equestrian Team GBR is supported by the UK Sport National Lottery funded World Class Programme; the British teams are very grateful to the support they receive from the British Equestrian Federation Fund and official partners Dodson & Horrell.

n For more information and to follow WEG news www.britisheventing.com.

£300 Raised...

Rutland in the ranks...

SEVEN YEAR OLD Amelia Barwell has raised £300 for Peterborough Hospital’s Children Ward to ‘give something back’ after all the care she’s recieved. Amelia suffers from congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscle. Her eye muscles are fixed and she is unable to look up, down or sideways. Her eyes are also highly sensitive to light forcing her to wear sunglasses. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD

STAMFORD IS BEING LOOKED AFTER...

South Kesteven District Council wants to introduce an Article 4 Direction covering Stamford Conservation Area.The move is in response to the gradual loss of traditional features from unlisted buildings such as traditional timber windows and the removal of traditional roofing slates and chimneys, which are resulting in the erosion of the character of the Stamford Conservation Area. Owners of unlisted properties currently have permitted development rights to make minor alterations including changing the style and material used for alterations such as replacement doors, windows and changes of roofing materials or to put up a satellite dish. n For more information visit www.southkesteven .gov.uk

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Your property in Park Lane Showcase your property to the lucrative London market For more information on promoting your property in our Park Lane office or for a free valuation please contact Fine & Country Stamford on 01780 750 200 or email stamford@fineandcountry.com | fineandcountry.com

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

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

fineandcountry.com

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t Sitting in an elevated position, surrounded by private grounds and stunning landscaped gardens, with lovely views of St Mary’s church, The Manor House is an imposing stone residence with superb reception space and extensive accommodation fitted to the highest standard throughout. Sympathetically renovated and extended over the last few years by the present owner, the property has been restored using traditional methods and tradesmen to create a stunning example of an Elizabethan property dating back to 1571. The interior combines a wealth of period features and traditional detailing with modern fittings of the highest specification; a particular highlight is the stunning bespoke hand crafted Kitchen with Wolf cooking appliances and Sub Zero refrigerator. In parts digitally controlled under-floor heating and cast iron radiators make this a truly stylish home.

The property is accessed by a sweeping tree lined driveway which leads to 1.15 acres of private enclosed grounds that include several formal landscaped gardens and a large courtyard at the rear of the property which adjoins the kitchen.

A large range of original farm buildings offer further potential with full planning permission to convert if desired. With all the benefits of an enviably private location and excellent facilities, The Manor House is a unique, impressive country home.

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

ThE ManoR houSE, oRTon WaTERvillE £2,450,000

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COTTAGE FARM, HALSTEAD

GUIDE PRICE £950,000

• Kitchen/Family Room

• Master Bedroom, Dressing Room & Ensuite

Jo Walker

• Dining Room

Lauren Rees

Caroline Leonard

Henry Burgess

A substantial character family home with generous and flexible living accommodation sitting in a plot of approximately six acres in a quiet location on the edge of the village.

James Sellicks

S A L E S • L E T T I N G S • S U R V E Y S • M O R T G A G E S

• Reception Room

• Four Further Double Bedrooms

• Office

• Two Bathrooms

• Utility

• Formal Lawns & Terraces

• Two WC's

• Three Paddocks

• Boot Room

• Stable Block

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Apt 2 The Coach House, Burley, Rutland

A lovely first floor apartment in part of a Palladian Mansion providing stunning views and ease of living

ENTRANCE HALL

SITTING/DINING ROOM KITCHEN

2 BEDROOMS

FAMILY BATHROOM

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

GARAGE

RIGHTS OVER 67 ACRES OF GROUNDS PARKLAND AND WOODLAND

OIEO £325,000

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NOAIN CH

ASHWELL

NOAIN CH

No Chain £795,000

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

ER AT WS W IE V

HAMBLETON

Guide Price £750,000

NOAIN CH

Guide Price £699,000

An attractive semi-detached Barn Conversion set on a good sized plot, located approximately 1/2 mile to the east of the village of Hambleton, on the peninsula and enjoying panoramic views over Rutland Water. The property offers flexible, spacious family accommodation with abundance of character. Sitting Room, Living Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 5 dbl Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms. Energy Rating: E.

W NE ICE PR

OAKHAM

CLIPSHAM

Elegant period property sympathetically extended to offer spacious, well-proportioned accommodation requiring some routine updating situated in the heart of this prestigious Rutland village. 4 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 3 dbl Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms; Dbl Garage, attractive Gardens. Energy Rating: F.

BARROW

No Chain £625,000

Substantial detached period property, former chapel house, set on a good sized plot in a rarely available location, surrounded by established gardens and enjoying panoramic rural views.

3 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 4 Bedrooms, Bathroom, large loft space.

Dbl Garage, ample parking, lovely gardens. Energy Rating: TBC.

W E N

GUIDE PRICE £655,000

Executive detached family home offering beautifully appointed & superbly equipped accommodation set on the new sought after Spinney Hill Development, a short walk from the town centre. 3 Rec. Rooms, Dining Kitchen with Garden Room, Clkrm, Utility, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms; dbl Garage, private garden. Energy Rating: B.

GRETTON

£595,000

Individually built detached house with annexe barn set on a large plot backing on to open fields and enjoying countryside views. Constructed to a high specification and beautifully appointed, the house provides spacious 3-/4-bedroom accommodation to the main house with a further 1-bedroom apartment above garage within the barn. Energy Rating: C.

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O

R DE ER UN FF

A rare opportunity in the heart of Stamford offering seclusion, parking and potential within walking distance of the station, town centre, meadows and other local amenities • Entrance Hallway • Further Double Bedroom • Cloakroom • Attic floor with Bathroom • Drawing Room & Sitting Room • Rear Courtyard Gardens • Kitchen/Diner with Pantry • Garaging • Principle Bedroom with En-suite • Listed Grade II

STAMFORD - GUIDE PRICE £795,000

A spacious and desirable property moments from central Stamford in a peaceful location with large gardens and private parking • Reception Hall • Three Further Bedrooms One with • Kitchen with Separate Breakfast Room Ensuite • Sitting Room • Dining Room • Family Bathroom • Office/Fifth Bedroom • Principle Bedroom with Ensuite • Driveway and Double Garage and Dressing Room • Mature Landscaped Gardens

WINDMILL LODGE – GUIDE PRICE £985,000

A substantially extended semi-detached cottage offering flexible living accommodation, off street parking & garaging, gardens & stunning views • Entrance Hall • Study • Kitchen / Dining Room • Sitting Room • Breakfast Room • Utility Room • Garden Room • Principal Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom

• Additional Study Room • Guest Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom • 2 Further Bedrooms • Shower Room • Double Garage • Gardens

UPPINGHAM

A 5 Bedroom Contemporary Family Residence Situated in a Pretty Rutland Village • Reception Hall • Cloakroom • Guest Bedroom with En-Suite Shower Room • 3 Further Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Drawing Room • Dining Room • Double Garage with Room above with • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Utility Room En-Suite facilities.

• Principal Bedroom with En-Suite • Landscaped Gardens Shower Room

EMPINGHAM – GUIDE PRICE £1,150,000

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PROPERTY FINDERS

BUYING IN A TOUGH MARKET

Kate Vincent Garrington

With many homebuyers finding it increasingly hard to find and buy a sensibly priced new home, Kate Vincent, property finder for Garrington, explains what is driving this difficult market and how to get some help.

In stark contrast to much of the UK, house prices in Rutland, Stamford and the East Midlands have largely bucked the trend and continued to rise over the past 12 months.

For homeowners this is welcome news but for buyers, property price inflation in our region is a symptom of a difficult and confusing market where finding and buying a home has become increasingly challenging.

So why are prices continuing to rise?

We have talked previously in these articles about the growing popularity of this area and how an increasing number of people are discovering that our beautiful countryside, attractive towns and villages, excellent transport links, popular schools and the affordability of property – particularly in the context of London and the South East, means that this is a great place to move to.

Add to this a very content incumbent population who appear reluctant to move from our wonderful area, then the simple answer to this question is that demand is outstripping supply.

The impact of this situation is twofold: Nothing to buy

A quick look at Rightmove reveals that at the time of writing, there are only 24 properties

being advertised for over £800k in Rutland with more than a third of these having been available for over six months. Around Stamford, there are only 12 in this price bracket.

Looking at the Land Registry data at what has sold in the prime market in the last year, we can see that the residents of the most prestigious villages such as Hambleton, Edith Weston, Ketton and Empingham have been reluctant sellers. Typically, a mere 1, 2 or 3 top end properties have changed hands in recent times.

In Stamford, a number of prestigious housing developments have been built and proved to be very popular, largely selling quickly – but not everyone wants a modern home with a modest garden.

Price confusion

The relatively low number of homes sold and for sale means that it is easy for properties to be overvalued. Indeed, there are regular examples of sellers ‘trying their luck’. For example, I was recently sent a brochure for a pre-market property pricing it at £600k but the property portal subsequently advertised it at £680k – when this was queried, the response was that the vendor had just decided to try for the higher number. No real justification. Also, when

tracking prime properties sold in the last year, it is interesting to note two period properties which were originally asking £2.25m and £1.4m but ended up being sold for £200k less. Indeed, my latest purchase for a client resulted in a £150k reduction off the asking price.

How to buy well in a difficult market

The shortage of stock and blurred pricing means that many buyers are becoming increasingly frustrated by this difficult market. As a result, it has arguably never been more important than now for buyers to get proper independent property advise. A local property finder such as myself will introduce buyers to a larger pool of potential properties to buy by sourcing off-market opportunities, provide independent advice on the realistic pricing of local properties and frequently save you money through our experienced factually backed negotiations with a seller.

If you would value some independent property advise to help you buy more effectively locally, Garrington offer a commitment free meeting.

To arrange, please call: 01780 408377 info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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THE POWER OF

FLOWERS Flowers have been scientifically proven to

make us happier, and when scientists make all that effort to prove a point, you know

you’re onto a good thing. We catch up with full-time florist Harriet Fenn and chat to

some of our fantastic British growers about

the world of floristry & why you should buy British. We also look into how to get into

flower arranging and growing your own...

Words and Images: Georgie Fenn.

Main: We visited Harriet in August when sunflowers were in season.

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“I picked it up again by myself when I joined the local Young Farmers Club...”

Right: Harriet wears a jumper from Cavells collection with a bouquet of roses.

Far Right: A bouquet that includes Miss Piggy roses.

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It all started at St Mary’s and St Augustine’s church for Harriet Fenn, owner of Harriet Floral Design and full time Designer at MM Flowers. “I’d help my mum with the flower arranging at Church,” says Harriet. “Particularly at busy periods such as Christmas and Easter.” After picking up the key skills from various window sill arrangements, the occasional pedestal and even an impressive archway, Harriet found she had a new found passion for flower arranging.

“I picked it up again by myself when I joined the local Young Farmers Club,” she says. “I started entering the competitions I ended up getting through to the Young Farmers Nationals at Malvern Three Counties Show,” she says. “I would also do the table arrangements for our Harvest Festivals and Christmas Dinner Parties which would then get auctioned off and the money was donated to charity. It was my friend Lil from Young Farmers who asked me to do her wedding flowers and after that I handed in my notice at work, says Harriet.” With a taste for floristry,

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Floristry SO YOU WANT TO LEARN

For the Love of Dahlias

Monday 1st October 2018 10am-4:30pm Stamford, Miss Pickering “It is no secret that dahlias are my favourite, and growing our own has enabled us to fill our arrangement with varieties that are not grown commercially. The dusky tones of café au lait, and the bright jewel tones of Labyrinth are in abundance.

These statement blooms will be combined with other seasonal flowers and fruits.

This course is for any ability, free reign of a shop stocked with flowers, we will create 2 hand tied bouquets using two different methods and a beautiful wild tablecentre.

Everything you need is provided, all flowers, vessels and tools.” n www.misspickering.com

Floristry Workshop

Various Dates - Get in touch “This workshop is run to discuss and create seasonal floristry displays. Each meeting costs £30.00 and all materials are included the construct of two large or three smaller displays. All workshops are three hours long. Please enquire about locations and date availability.” n www.bloomingcrafty.com

Halloween Flowers

Saturday 27th October 10:30am - 12:30 pm Rose Cottage, Harby

“Come and carve a pumpkin and fill it with seasonal flowers and foliage. This will look fabulous at Halloween either indoors or on your porch.”n

www.rosecottagefloristry.co.uk

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We chat to Sue Lamb of Lamb’s Flowers ...

It’s been a tricky summer for the flower industry just as it has been for farmers. “We have 15 acres under glass, it’s been too hot for the flowers and too hot for the workers,” says Sue. Sue Lamb runs the show at Lamb’s Flowers along with husband Roger and son Gareth and as you’d expect, she is an very driven and forward thinking individual. With sustainability at the forefront of every decision, they have to think about best time of day to irrigate and quantity to give to their flowers.

“Once the plants have established in the soil we no longer overhead irrigate we then use low level drip tape giving water direct to the plants roots, we only use recycled water to water the plants that need it,” Sue tells us. “The water is harvested from glasshouse roofs and stored in reservoirs so we’re starting to run dry.” It’s tough when the demand is still high, but the resources are running low, the story of agriculture throughout the summer of 2018. Sue grows a variety of British Seasonal flowers in-

cluding Mattioli, Lisianthus, Antirrinhum and Campanulas.’ They also pack sunflowers for Morrisons, “We pack inexcess of 20,000 sunflowers each day that will go off to Morrisons depots,” says Sue. These sunflowers are grown in Spalding over an area of around 600 acres in total. As well as Morrisons, Waitrose is one of Sue’s biggest clients and they supply them directly with cut and wrapped flowers. The best thing about British flowers is that they have two days of freshness over flowers from elsewhere in the world. Waitrose will only support companies who have a deep understanding of sustainability. At Lamb’s Flowers, they have biomass powered by local woodchip for heating and the chillers are powered by solar panels. In the winter, Lamb’s Flowers will be focusing on tulips. They grow an enormous 20 million tulips, all grown hydroponically.

So, if you’re buying your flowers from Waitrose, Morrisons, maybe Asda or even Ocado, Moonpig or Interflora thank Sue!

Above: A field of sunflowers. Sue Lamb supplies Morrisons with 20,000 sunflowers into their depot every day in season.

Right: Buckets of flowers waiting to be arranged. The Roses on the left with the orange tint are called Miss Piggy and the pink roses in the foreground are called Oops.

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Harriet packed in her career in the world of insurance and began looking into how she could make her passion a full-time career. “I started to do weddings, dinner parties and gift flowers full time but also worked at an event company doing the large arrangements for the Grand Nationals, Lords Cricket, Ascot Racecourse and Jaguar Land Rover,” says Harriet. “It was great fun going to all of the wedding fairs and I absolutely love doing the flowers for excited brides but I was approached by a recruiter for a great o pportunity with Marks & Spencers.” A year into the role as Junior Designer for Marks & Spencers and Harriet had helped win their fifth Gold Medal for their Floral Market stand at the Chelsea Flower Show and develop exciting new designs for their supermarket range. “I still do the occasional wedding but just in my spare time now,” says Harriet.

“I love my job as it’s giving me so much more experience in the commercial world of floristry. I’d love to go over to Kenya and see the our growers in action out there.” The flower industry is extremely fast-paced, the bouquets have to be simple enough to be made on a mass scale but beautiful enough that the shelves are left bare at the end of the day! “It’s great keeping up with making bouquets at home and for weddings as I can be as creative as I like, there’s no holding me back!” However, the challenge of meeting a specification is part of what makes Harriet’s job so rewarding. “It’s similar to meeting a bride’s budget, you’re creating a bouquet within a certain price bracket that still matches the correct colour schemes and style,” says Harriet. “At the moment I’m finding a lot of brides are going for a more relaxed look with lots of greenery and seasonal flowers. Then of course the classic peachy pinks and white roses are still really popular with weddings.” Harriet has done the flowers for lots of farmer’s wedding where wheat has been a strong feature throughout the arrangements. “If you cut yourself some and hang it to try it can transform something as simple as a button hole into a really personal style statement.”

Harriet tends to buy her flowers from the dutch flowers markets, or early trips down to the Covent Garden flower market, but has also been trying her hand at growing flowers

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for arranging in the garden on the farm. “You can easily grow cut flowers such as Larkspur, Tulips, Gladiolus, Dianthus, Peonies, Gypsophila and Sunflowers at home,” says Harriet. “It’s just a case of being really strict with yourself and making sure you water and cut regularly so that you can more than one flower each time.” With flowers, the more you cut them back, the more determined they become to grow back! “I think because I have a farming background, the growing side of floristry really interests me, it’s amazing how cheap and easy it is to grow your own flowers at home, everyone should try it!”

Harriet says her signature style quite possibly developed from a bit of bravery at the start, “You have to be prepared to take big risks and just go for it with the confidence that it will turn out fabulous at the end,” says Harriet. “I’m quite a creative person so I have a flair for creating unique ideas.”

In the future, Harriet is looking forward to the ever-changing environment of the fast-paced environment of MM Flowers and learning as much as she can. “I’d love to go over to Holland to meet our growers,” she says. “I’m also keeping up my own business, it’s great to be able to give brides the flowers for quite possibly one of the biggest moments of their life.” There are lots of great courses in this area if you’d like to try your hand at flower arranging, it’s as sociable as it is rewarding. If you’d prefer to leave it to a professional for now, get in touch with Harriet for bouquets, wedding flowers, Christmas wreaths or flowers for your party or event and she will be able to help. www.harrietfloraldesign.com n

Above: Mrs Nath with a bouquet designed by Harriet Floral Design.

Right: Cutting flowers at home in the garden.

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Six Blooming Beautiful British Grown Flowers

Words: Georgie Fenn.

Cosmos: These beautifully flowers add a delicacy to arrangements. They’re particularly easy to grow at home in the summer so can be used in a wild flower arrangement at home. Cosmos lasts a long time and can grow very tall making it perfect for dramatic bridal bouquets. n

Sweet William: These are really fun flowers bursting in colour and giving arrangements a big wow factor. They have increased in popularity since the Duchess of Cambridge chose to include them in her wedding bouquet to Prince William in 2011.

Sweet Williams are also edible! n

Sunflowers: Almost everyone loves seeing sunflowers. They add huge impact to a room and take very little effort to arrange. They’re best to ‘plonk and go’ and all you really need to do is cut the stems to the right length and you’re good to go. There is a huge sunflower market in the UK in the summer. n

Alstroemeria: The beautiful flower of the alstroemeria is a versatile flower for arranging. It looks beautiful with eucalyptus in particular, plus the scent of eucalyptus is to die for. Make sure you condition alstroemeria well before arranging and remove any dead stems before they affect the other flowers. n

Foxgloves: The enchanting bell shape of foxgloves can transform a bouquet. As foxgloves tend to grow at fairly different angles, letting them twist and bend around an arrangement makes it look more natural and dramatic. Foxgloves come in many different colours now, the peach tones are stunning. n

Allium: These flowers are part of the onion family and therefore, quite strong smelling so make sure you change the water regularly. The large ball mass that is the allium, is made up of hundreds of small star shaped flowers, not only are these flowers beautiful fresh but they look great dried too. n

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T H E

I N T E RV I E W

Duchess of Rutland THE HUNTRESS

Pride magazine recently met with

Her Grace, The Duchess of Rutland

to discuss Belvoir’s fantastic new business, The Engine Yard. We even got to see

Belvoir Castle’s personal shotgun designed

by Grulla Armas and fantastically modelled by the Duchess herself...

Words: Georgie Fenn.

Images: Georgie Fenn and Belvoir Castle’s Collection.

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“If it wasn’t for people like the Duchess of Rutland, the landscape we see in Britain today just wouldn’t exist. Some of the most beautiful properties in England are only kept alive by the sheer grit and determination of this certain breed of extraordinarily passionate people.”

If it wasn’t for people like the Duchess of Rutland, the landscape we see in Britain today just wouldn’t exist. Some of the most beautiful properties in England are only kept alive by the sheer grit and determination of this certain breed of extraordinarily passionate people. Belvoir Castle is no exception, when David Manners, The Duke of Rutland inherited his dukedom and was handed the keys they thought they’d better start by figuring out what needed to be taken care of at the castle almost immediately.

This was in 2001 and the bill came back at a startling £6.5 million, and that was just the basics! From 2001, it was worked out that after the initial repairs, the Manners family would need to spend a minimum of £100,000 annually on the restoration of the castle for the next 20 years. Thankfully, nature tends to look after the wider grounds of the castle. Tie this in with the tax bill of £9 million that the Duke of Rutland had to pay when his father died in 1999 and you begin to realise that running a castle is no mean feat.

So what does someone like Emma Manners do when it comes to making Belvoir Castle work? They open it up to enterprise and thankfully for us, we’re all invited! The latest extremely exciting venture that is already open to people to enjoy is The Engine Yard.

It will be officially opened on Sunday the 2nd September by none-other than Liz Hurley, a friend of the Duchess. The Engine Yard is going to be a classy, country-chic designer outlet offering everything from delicious chocolate to the Duchess’s favourite clothing and you can even go there for your weekly shop.

The Engine Yard is steeped in history. It was originally constructed by the Victorians in 1850 as the hub of the estate to produce furniture, doors and windows for the castle. You can almost see the Right: The Duchess of Rutland chatting to her friend, the infamous Liz Hurley.

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T H E I N T E RV I E W THE DUCHESS OF RUTLAND

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“

T H E I N T E RV I E W THE DUCHESS OF RUTLAND

”

e aim is to bring people together from all works of life through shopping, dining and even going for a few drinks at e Gin Bar...

former mechanics in the new design, imagine the saw mill working, picture wagons being delicately constructed, because every brick has been retained and reused, there is a lot of the former character there.

The building also house the pump that is used to pump water up to the castle. It’s believed that the eagerly awaited shopping village has cost around £2.5 million to develop. Due to the snow earlier in the year (hard to imagine now) the two year project was set back a couple of months but the Duchess has got everything back on track now.

“I want it to have its own heartbeat,” says the Duchess, who took quite a long time to track down at Belvoir Castle for obvious reasons. “Musicians, actors and artists are all invited, it’s open to anyone and everyone.” The Duchess would like to create a community, not just for local people but further afield too. “We’re going to have a Countryside Speakers Corner,” she says. “A place where people can learn more about the countryside by debating about countryside issues. Our family chaplain will also lead a Songs of Praise style evening on Sundays to bring everyone together.”

The Duchess describing The Engine Yard as having a heartbeat is resonant because she is literally supplying everything that makes us healthy. Whether it’s plants for gardening to help with our wellbeing, meditation classes for our mental health, quality meat for our diet and even Muddy Matches evenings for our love life. The aim is to bring people together from all works of life through shopping, dining and even going for a few drinks at The Gin Bar. You can guarantee that whenever you visit, there will be something going on and someone new to meet.

The Engine Yard will host the Idle Mole plant centre, butcher and farm shop The County Victualler, a homewares shop Margo and Plum, coffee supplier Cherizena, chocolatier Cocoa Amore, Jorge Artisan Foods, Belvoir Casa Spa, Crafts4Kids, the Duchess’ Gallery, the Fuel Tank café and the 45 West Bottle Shop and Bar. The Duchess’ Gallery will include all of her favourite brands and artists Left: The Duchess of Rutland giving her daughter Eliza a shooting lesson at home.

including Duke & Dexter, Really Wild Clothing, Bora cashmere and a range of their own candles.

The gin bar, 45 West Bottle Shop and Bar will be opening in October but there will be a trailer on the open day. You’ll be able to look forward to enjoying some fantastic Burleighs gins which are all produced in Nanpantan, Leicestershire, from their signature London Dry Gin to the floral Pink Edition. It’s the second 45 West Bottle Shop and Bar, following on from the bar in Hotel Street, Leicester, which opened in November 2015.

I asked the Duchess how she keeps her energy up overseeing so many branches of the Belvoir’s many businesses, “I practise Reiki, so I sort of recharge myself,” she smiles. The Duchess is a very calm person to be around, she talks quietly and gives the impression that she’s reserving her energy for when she’s back out of the castle managing people and putting ideas into action. “I’m on my level two Reiki, it’s really interesting,” says the Duchess.

With a passion for natural healing, the Duchess is hoping to bring this aspect of her life to The Engine Yard with her revamped, absolutely delightful gypsy wagon to be known as The Wellness Wagon. “We’ll have natural healers working in the gypsy wagon,” says the Duchess. “Everybody from acupuncturists to mindfulness experts will be there to help people with whatever they need.” The interior of the Wellness Wagon is breath-taking with hand painted artwork by a local artist called Jennifer Bell who painted some of the murals at The George Hotel in Stamford too.

There will lots going on with the restaurant and garden centre too.

Local Masterchef champion Simon Spooner will be running the show with the restaurant and there will be cooking demonstrations and lessons that you could go to. Equally, the flower arranging workshops at the Idle Mole garden centre sound fantastic. As well as The Engine Yard, Belvoir Castle has recently joined forces with Grulla Armas to launch the London gun. Based on the Grulla 35

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THE

T H E I N T E RV I E W DUCHESS OF RUTLAND

London Gun Model, the shotgun has been developed exclusively for Belvoir Castle and has its name engraved on the bottom of the frame. Explaining more, Phil Burtt, estate director and shoot captain, said “This is an exciting opportunity for us to celebrate our passion for game shooting, and I’m delighted that Grulla Armas has creates a pair of bespoke 20 bore guns in the Grulla London Gun range for us.”

“These distinctive shotguns are the perfect balance between a basic weapon and a top-of-the-range model, and are made using high-quality Turkish walnut. Belvoir Castle has an exceptional relationship with the family that run Grulla Armas. Her Grace, The Duchess of Rutland visited the factory in Eiber, northern Spain, and while there, she helped to develop our model.”

“Grulla Armas has a long history, and this gun will certainly appeal to those who love traditional craftsmanship and country pursuits.

Above: Belvoir Castle on a warm summer’s day.

Right: The Duchess out hunting, The Duchess on a shoot, Handdrawn illustrations in the wellness wagon. Planning & recent shots of The Engine Yard.

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We took the new shotgun along to The Game Fair, held at Ragley Hall at the end of July and received some fantastic feedback on its design, quality and value.”

As you may already know, Belvoir Castle is home to fine-quality pheasant, partridge and duck, all reared on the estate, and Phil and his team run regular shoots for first time visitors and veteran enthusiasts alike. If offers a number of hospitality experiences, over one day or a few, where guests can enjoy meals prepared by the in-house chef using local ingredients, roaring log fires, evening entertainment, such as whisky tasting and an overnight stay in the state bedrooms.

So don’t forget, the official launch of the Engine Yard on the 2nd September will feature cooking demonstrations from leading chefs including Rachael Green and José Suto. There will also be performances from musicians and entertainers, a pop-up gin wagon

by Leicester bar and bottle shop, 45 West, as well as a VIP appearance from actress and model, Liz Hurley. There will also be a Prosecco trailer and a Pimm’s stop off incase gin doesn’t hit the spot and don’t forget to take your handbag so that you can shop your socks off in all of the delightful boutiques… n

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On...

BURGHLEY

PETERBOROUGH

27th-28th octobeR

11th August 5th NovembeR

RutlANd fARm PARk Activities

tim PeAke's sPAcecRAft

Rutland Farm Park will be running activity days for children in the October half term. This will include children’s Tuesdays at 11am where it will be story time for pre-school children. For slightly older children, parents can accompany them to animal petting and craft time in the barn. Then, on the 27th and 28th you’ll be able to celebrate halloween on the farm, dress up and join in the witch hunt, face painting, apple bobbing and more.

Tim Peake with the Soyuz spacecraftIt will be displayed in the Cathedral from Saturday 11th August until Monday 5th November 2018. It is also expected that Tim Peake’s own spacesuit will also be part of the display, as well as the parachute used in the spacecraft’s return to earth.

The announcement was made at the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester on Friday 9th March. It follows an open competition last year to win the opportunity to be the sixth location on the spacecraft’s national tour. The Soyuz TMA-19M spacecraft was used by Tim Peake for his mission to the International Space Station in 2015–2016.

n For more information visit www.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk or call 01572 722122.

EXTON

suNdAy 7th octobeR

AutumN biRdwAtch iN RutlANd

n This event is free, contact 01733 355315 for more information.

Get Your Growing Going

AN INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC VEGETABLE GROWING AT BARNSDALE GARDENS WITH PROFESSIONAL NICK HAMILTON

BARNSDALE

moNdAy 1st octobeR

oRgANic gRowiNg

Led by Nick Hamilton, this course is aimed at both gardening novices and those who want to find out more about growing and 'pest-proofing' their vegetables the natural way. You'll learn all about organic principles, soil types, organic fertilisers, pest and disease problems and how to cope with them organically, and ways to rotate your crops to get the best from your plot. The course includes classroom learning with practical, 'on the allotment' discussions, lunch in the Barnsdale Tea Room and a full set of printed notes to take home. n The course costs £76, call 01572 813200 for more information.

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Meet expert spotters and take a special tour of the Barnsdale Gardens with local naturalist Phil Rudkin. You can chat with the clever makers of bird boxes and bug hotels or make a simple bird feeder yourself to take home.

Barnsdale provides a home for a huge variety of garden birds, with guest appearances by the residents of nearby Rutland Water, so there'll be plenty to see, and even the youngest visitor will be able to get a great view on the woodland webcam.This is a great day out for the whole family that is both entertaining and extremely informative. It will particularly help peak your children’s interest in biology and the natural world and may even help them when they’re back at school.

n To book, call 01572 813200 or alternatively for more

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

STAMFORD

17th octobeR 31st octobeR

sPooky touRs

The popular Spooky Tours are returning at Burghley House, with local ghostly expert Martin Tempest, from Wednesday 17th to Wednesday 31st October. The tours are designed to be scary but fun.

Although not recommended for children under 11, it’s up to parents to decide as you know your children best!

OAKHAM

28th octobeR

RutlANd food ANd dRiNk festivAl Celebrate The County of Good Taste at the Rutland Food & Drink Festival on 28th October.

Taking place in Oakham Castle, on the Castle grounds, and in the Market Place running down to the Victoria Hall on the High Street, there will be hot and cold food stalls celebrating local producers and a great

atmosphere throughout the town. Expect fantastic cheese, gins, jams, cakes, fresh pies and butchers with some of the most outstanding meat you’ll ever taste in your life. Go and show your support of your local businesses and stock your freezer up for the winter with delicious goodies.The event is organised

by Oakham Town Partnership, offering three throughout every year in April, June and October.

n For more information on this event call 07974 810771.

The First Rutland Ball

EVENT ORGANISERS HOPE THE FIRST RUTLAND BALL WILL PROVE A SUCCESS AT THE FALCON

The tour takes place in the evening with low level lighting across uneven surfaces, steps and in the open air in all weathers. n For more information or to book visit www.burghley.co.uk UPPINGHAM

19th octobeR 21st octobeR

beeR festivAl

Uppingham Beer Festival is returning at The Vaults, save the date and don’t miss out!

nwww.thevaultsuppingham.co.uk

UPPINGHAM

suNdAy 28th octobeR

RutlANd bAll

The ball has been 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, places to eat and so much more. Maybe a chance for your colleagues to get together before the Christmas chaos begins?! But it is an open event for anyone to enjoy. Many local businesses and suppliers

STAMFORD

thuRs 25th octobeR

RetiRemeNt PlANNiNg eveNiNg

The George of Stamford is hosting Smith Eliot’s evening of Retirement Planning.

You’ll be able to have a few drinks and canapés and listen to advice that might just change your life! n The event runs from 6:30 9pm. To reserve your place call 01572 759759 or email victoria.king@sjpp.co.uk.

STAMFORD

thuRs 25th octobeR

chARity sociAl eveNiNg foR the hARley stAPles cANceR tRust This will be an evening of fun to raise money for this fantastic charity. Tickets will be £20 with 100% going back to the charity! n The event runs from 7- 11pm.

To reserve your place call 01572 759759 or email simone.harley@sjpp.co.uk.

are sponsoring elements of the Discover Rutland Ball to make it a fantastic value for money evening. All profits will go directly to Discover Rutland for the purposes of promoting this special county. Viva Vino will be providing arrival drinks The Olive Branch providing canapes, Whipper-In providing wine , All Purpose cleaning & catering supplies sponsoring dessert wine & port, Otters Fine Foods providing cheese Hambleton Bakery providing bread, Danny Hern/Rutland Radio providing entertainment and more. n Call 01572 823535 to book.

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NEWS & EVENTS

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

A Fungi Foray and Lunch After

HAMBLETON HALL RUN A MUSHROOM HUNTING DAY IN THEIR WOODS WITH A FUNGI-THEMED LUNCH AFTERWARDS HAMBLETON

sAtuRdAy 29th sePtembeR

fuNgi-foRAy

Any day out at Hambleton Hall is a particularly good day, it’s just such a gem in the county of Rutland. This September, you can go on a little adventure there looking for mushrooms and fungi’s that are edble. Paul Nichol, field mycologist, botanist, author of a guide to identifying mushrooms and toadstools and adult tutor, will be leading the mushroom hunt. He has been doing it for some years now and his enthusiastic and knowledgeable approach has been a huge success. After coffee

you will drive from Hambleton Hall to Burley Wood, where you will spend the morning foraging mushrooms, such as Lepista nuda – Wood blewit, Clitocybe geotropa – Trooping funnel cap, Macrolepiota procera – Parasol mushroom & Boletus badius – Bay bolete. They may all same like completely mad names now but once you’ve spend a bit more time with Paul, all will become clear and you’ll soon be a fungi expert! Lunch back at Hambleton Hall will be created by the head chef and include a mushroom themed three-course meal aside from, of course, dessert. You will be treated to; Three clear tastes of

Wild Mushroom cooked in different ways paired with 2017 Simon and the Huguenots, Stellenbosch. For main you will be eating, Roast Guinea Fowl with wild mushrooms and tarragon flavoured jus paired with the delicious 2016 Château Fontarèche, Corbières and finally for dessert, Caramelised Peach and Raspberry terrine with the refreshing but sweet 2015 Coteaux du Layon “Chaume” Domaine des Forges. This truly is a spectacular day out. n For more information or to book this event, visit Hambleton Hall’s website www.hambletonhall.com or if you’d prefer you can call 01572 756 991 and they will be happy to help you out.

STAMFORD

THURS 1ST SAT 3RD NOV

GOOD NIGHT MR TOM AT STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE

This musical version of the award-winning book by Michelle Magorian is the story of William Beech, an artistically gifted but abused young boy, who escapes his brutal home life when he is evacuated to the countryside and taken into the care of Mister Tom, during World War II. When he is called back to blitz stricken London by his sick mother is all lost, or can Mister Tom rescue him?

A touching, powerful story with moving ballads, humour and foot tapping numbers, this show is suitable for all. Watch in the comfortable setting of Stamford Art’s Centre where you can have a civilised glass of wine from the cellar bar. n For more information visit www.stamfordartscentre.com

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Join us for a fun day on the farm...

• Working family run farm set in 19 acres • Rare breed animals • Tots on Tuesday: story time at 10.30, pet an animal & lunchtime deals • Join us for a Hallowen Weekend of fun on 27th & 28th October • Half term fun from 21st to 23rd October, story time, pet an animal and craft activities • Tea Room serving hot and cold food, drinks, cakes and snacks • Gift Shop

OPEN: Tues - Sun 10.00 - 5.00 FREE PARKIN G

RUTLAND FARM PARK Uppingham Rd, Oakham LE15 6JD 01572 722122 • enquiries@rutlandfarmpark.co.uk www.rutlandfarmpark.co.uk

We are the best travel friend you could ever wish for, in fact, our customers want to keep us a secret! Your holiday is such a precious time and it’s important it’s just perfect.

Talk to us and let us showcase to you our expert knowledge in arranging and planning your experience.

Call 01778 338530 or 01733 210687 www.travelcounsellors.com/clare.lockett clare.lockett@travelcounsellors.com

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FOOD & DRINK

The Wisteria Hotel

in Oakham

The mysterious Wisteria Hotel has been quiet for some time. In fact, the front door hadn’t opened to customers walking in off the High Street for several years! It’s practically unrecognisable now, full of exciting decor, delicious food and the vibrant new owners, Chris Newsham and Kristy Carey...

Words & Images: Georgie Fenn.

Chris and Kristy took The Wisteria Hotel on at the end of March and it has literally been out with the old and in with the new over the last six months. What they have done with the place is nothing short of outstanding, the décor is coming together beautifully and they have created interesting and stylish spaces for people to relax, eat, have meetings, read or just take a pause on a busy day.

The Wisteria Hotel is now a place that is very welcoming, whether you’d like a coffee or a three-course meal of delicious food paired with exceptional wine.

“We’ve called the restaurant area Hunter’s Bar & Kitchen,” says Chris. “This part of the building dates back to 1604 where it would have been a hunting lodge. The décor and menu will reflect this too.”

This means they hope to have game on the menu when it’s in season and you’ll notice the wallpaper is hunting themed.

“IT DATES BACK TO 1604 WHEN IT WAS A HUNTING LODGE. THE DÉCOR AND MENU WILL REFLECT THIS TOO.”

meet the CHEF NEIL HORNSBY

Before taking on The Wisteria Hotel, Chris and Kristy worked for the Marriott group together in hotels, they’ve been in the industry for 20 years but had always dreamed to take somewhere on for themselves.

“This hotel came up and it ticked all the boxes, we didn’t have to make any sacrifices,” says Chris. “It’s in a small market town, the ideal location, has 25 rooms, anevent space, a restaurant and bar area, it’s just perfect!” Perhaps dreams do come true!

Expect great tasting food from Hunter’s Bar & Kitchen with plenty of locally sourced ingredients. In the future there will also be gastronomic experiences, steak nights, and more for you to enjoy delicious food. It really is an exciting new start for The Wisteria

Food History: Neil has been catering for 30 years this year.

Over the years he has run several businesses with wife Karen. Previous to this they had The Barn, then before that they were at Rutland Water and also had the King’s Arms at Wing. It all started in 1988, bistro called Lancers which is what Hungry Birds is now.

Food Heaven: Classic French cuisine, steak!

Food Hell: Foam. n

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Hotel and we can’t wait to watch Chris and Kristy become the talk of the town as the new kids on the block.

After being treated to several courses, I can confirm that Neil knows what he’s doing. I’m not a huge fan of terrine usually, but Neil’s fresh take on the homemade rhubarb and ginger chutney paired with it so beautifully that it was a refreshing dish rather than just meaty and wet like it can be.

The star of the show was the Tomahawk Steak, the dish that is suggested for two people to share but if you’re feeling brave,

OPEN FOR FOOD Hunter’s Kitchen Opening Hours Tuesday to Saturday 6pm to 9pm, Sunday 12pm to 2:30pm / 5:30pm to 8pm, Monday - Closed.

Hunter’s Bar Opening Hours Monday to Thursday 6pm to 9pm, Friday and Saturday 2:30pm to 11pm.

Sunday 12pm to 10pm

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on the MENU FROM THE RESTAURANT MENU AT THE WISTERIA Starters Pan seared woodpigeon breast, blackberry jus, cassis macerated blackberries, walnut mash.

Heritage tomatoes, basil, basil oil, aged balsamic syrup glaze, pesto.

Grasmere farm pork and smoked duck terrine, roasted red peppers, pickled ginger, homemade rhubarb & ginger chutney, lambs lettuce.

Main Courses

Roasted locally shot pheasant, roasted Oakham root vegetables, game jus.

you could definitely tackle it on your own.

The beef (and lamb) comes from Raddlemans Farm in Braunston which is only down the road from Oakham, totally cutting out those extra miles and meaning the meat is definitely fresh and from a trusty supplier who takes good care of their cows.

“There are three-generations at Raddlemans,” says Neil. “It’s really good meat and nice knowing you’re getting it from a family.” As for the pork, that’s from Grasmere Farm, another well-known local supplier maintaining exceptional standards.

Neil tells me that the game they use comes from people who shoot it on their own farms but sometimes Peterborough Game Company too. When it comes to flavour, it’s all about having the best local produce and that’s really important to Neil. The only thing that isn’t local is the seafood!

There are also the 25 bedrooms at The Wisteria Hotel that Chris and Kristy are working on modernising for guests. Bed & Breakfast is really popular at the hotel and they have made the eating areas really

comfortable for people who are staying. “In the future, we hope to knock through and expand on the Hunter’s Bar & Kitchen area,” says Chris. There are lots of ideas in the pipeline and with such a transformation in only 6 months, I don’t doubt that by Christmas, Chris and Kristy will have themselves a thriving hotel and restaurant.

The busy married couple actually live in the hotel themselves with their little one, Freddie.

Currently, the back of the Wisteria Hotel provides ample parking space and a small garden area. The couple hope to landscape this area and provide decking so that guests can enjoy a tipple outside in the sunshine next summer. The Wisteria Hotel has three private rooms available for weddings, events and meetings. This includes The Barn Suite that can seat up to 80 people for weddings, parties and other functions. Then there is the Barn Lounge that can seat around 40 people and finally the Georgian Suite that is perfect for large meetings or functions with the option to split it into different spaces. We can’t wait to visit The Wisteria again!

Grilled rib-eye tomahawk steak, proper homemade chips, beer battered onion rings, baked greenhouse fine tomatoes, watercress and portobello mushroom.

(Two person share) Trio of fish - baked Scottish salmon fillet, smoked cod loin, king prawn shellfish, vermouth & dill sauce.

Dessert

Neil’s meringue, allotment & hedgerow berries, thick double cream, viola flowers, coulis.

Pecan nut, sultana & Glayva whisky tartlet, baked figs, caramel sauce, maple syrup.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change.

n The Wisteria is based on 4 Catmos Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6HW. Call 01572 722844 or email them at enquiries@wisteriahotel.co.uk.

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Celebrating 'Pub of the Year' weekly specials...

Monday: Whole Beercan Chicken with veg & gravy or salad & mayo £13.99 Tuesday: Johns Curry Night with naan, rice and chutney £14.99 Wednesday: The Proper Pie Night £9.99 Thursday: Mixed Grill £12.99 Friday/Saturday: 6 course tasting menu only £35.00 Sunday: famous home-cooked carvery (kids now just £2.99) EVERY NIGHT INCLUDES VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN OPTIONS!

North Side, Thorney PE6 0RW

01733 202256 • www.doginad.co.uk

PUB • RESTAURANT • OUTSIDE CATERING • ACCOMMODATION

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The Magic of the

Mushroom Nature providing wild food is every chef ’s dream.

Here, we look at the humble mushroom, and what you need to know about foraging... words: georgie fenn.

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“There are only around a dozen that are poisonous,” says Paul.

It also turns out that these poisonous types are fairly rare and come under names such as Destroying Angel and Death Cap...”

I love the idea of foraging. Heading into the forest with a little knapsack, the doggies and perhaps a camping stove in tow, to pick wild mushrooms and feel totally self sufficient.

Doesn’t that sound blissful? I’d probably fry the mushrooms up with some complementary flavours, then pile them onto a thick slice of fresh sourdough from Hambleton bakery, what bliss.

When you hear the words Boletus badius, Clitocybe geotropa, Macrolepiota procera and Bay bolete, you might think we’re talking about Harry Potter spells, that is, unless you’re into your foraging. October brings damp weather, cool nights, moist detritus and combined, the perfect conditions for delicious wild mushrooms.

If you’re a mushroom fan, you will struggle to find anything more delectable than a hand picked Parasol mushroom, cooked within an hour of picking, as fresh as fresh gets.

However, pick a poisonous mushroom instead of a Parasol and you’ll be out of luck.

Mushrooms aren’t like wild garlic or blackberries where you can pick away, eating as you go, never having to worry about whether you might drop down dead as a doornail. You have to take a lot of care, consult a manual and if in doubt, don’t take the risk.

First things first, picking for commercial use is not allowed in most woods, always check before foraging that it’s actually allowed before you get yourself into trouble. Next, it’s a good idea not to do any picking until you’ve invested in an identifcation book.

Professional expert Paul Nichol runs the Fungi-Foray at Hambleton Hall at the end of September and has his own guide, An Initial Guide to the Identification of Mushrooms & Toadstools and would be the perfect book to refer to upon picking. You’ll learn to take into account the cap, stem, flesh, gills, spores and habitat until you know exactly what an edible mushroom looks like.

PAUL NICHOL

Paul Nichol is the charming chap leading the Fungi Foray at Hambleton Hall. Paul is a field Paul Nichol says that our European mycologist who has neighbours actually call us mycophobes due spent the large to our unusually high suspicion towards majority of his fungi. “There are only around a dozen that professional life are poisonous,” says Paul. It also turns out teaching groups of adults the skills that these poisonous types are fairly rare and needed for the come under names such as Destroying identification of Angel and Death Cap. There are another 50 mushrooms and to 60 or so that might give you stomach ache toadstools in Britain. and only around 50 that are what Paul calls Paul’s interest in the edible.

Just because a mushroom isn’t edible world of fungi it doesn’t mean it’s poisonous, it stemmed from essentially just means that it studying Botany at University. isn’t worth cooking.

He is now a Paul has retired from trustee of teaching field mycolThe Fungus ogy full time but he Conservakeeps his hand in It is estimated that there are tion Trust recording sightings of 4,000 different types of and is a fungi in the UK alone, out fungi and running the founding of this, only around a courses at places like chair of The dozen are poisonous!

Hambleton Hall. “There Nottingis an increasing number of hamshire and people who are interested,” says Cumbria fungus groups.

Paul. “At Hambleton, we find lots of

Facts about

the mushroom

Above: Paul Nichol, mushroom and toadstool expert.

mushrooms, some of which are edible and people get very excited when they go out to collect, plus there’s a great lunch 53

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>>

“If in doubt, don’t take the risk when it comes to the mushroom...!”

afterwards.” Paul says that foraging shouldn’t be all about looking for mushrooms you can eat, but discovering the mushrooms in your area and figuring out why they’re growing there. Mushrooms release millions of spores every hour, but the reason they don’t grow everywhere is because they’re very particular about where they grow. “For example the truffle is part of the symbiotic association whereby the truffle is nourished by the tree while it supplies the tree with water and minerals,” says Paul.

“This is called mycorrhiza and otherwise known as the ‘The World Wood Web’.”

Fascinatingly, Paul goes on to explain that fungi can send signals and tell other trees that their tree is sick, it’s a fascinating subject that is still lacking in research. Despite fungi providing so much to trees, it is the mycelium, the white threads that they leave behind, that is important. So don’t worry that by picking mushrooms, you’re taking away the trees life source.

There’s certainly a lot to know about mushrooms and people ought to be made more aware about the importance of conserving fungi, Paul tells me. “The greatest threat is the destruction of their habitat,” says Paul. “I was following a family

Top Left: A gathering of wild Boletus mushrooms.

Right: Boletus badius mushrooms.

Far/Right: The gathering from Hambleton.

Top/Right: Yellow chanterelles, an easy to identify mushroom.

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through some woodland recently and they were telling their children to stamp on the mushrooms saying they were ‘bad’,” says Paul. It only takes a little bit of education to see that mushrooms aren’t bad and if the children were taught not to touch but to respect fungi, it would provide a lot more benefit to the eco-system. the best places for mushrooms to grow are essentially left to their own devices, no chemicals, not too many people or interference.

One very valuable tip that Paul offers is to always carry a kitchen fork and a pen knife with you when you’re foraging for mushrooms. “It’s important to dig the whole stem out as it often contains clues,” says Paul. “The yellow stainer looks just like a normal field mushroom, but if you slice right at the bottom of the stork and it goes bright yellow, it’s actually a yellow stainer!”

When it comes to cooking mushrooms, you should wash and prepare them and then cook on a high heat to get rid of the water and dirt within. The water may fill the pan and you can cook through until the mushrooms are a little dry. They’re then ready to add to other dishes whether you’re opting for basic mushrooms on toast or a stronganoff.

So what’s the point of all this effort you might be wondering. Well, seeing as these mushrooms have grown out in the wild, they’re likely to be much more nutritious than your average supermarket button cup.

All types of mushrooms contain varying degress of protein and fibre.

They also contain essential B vitamins as well as a powerful antioxidant called Selnium which helps to prevent damage to cells and tissues. Mushrooms are also one of the very few non-animal sources of vitamin-D which has shown to have potential in protecting against cancer. There is also some evidence that they may be beneficial in the treatment and management of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. There’s a lot of power in a mushroom, they’re not just tasty, they’re great for you! If you would like to learn more, Hambleton Hall’s Fungi-Foray is on the 29th September where you can go foraging with a group and be treated to a mushroom ensemble after. n For more information and to see more events, visit www.hambletonhall.co.uk or call 01572 756991.

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HIGHLIGHTS

MUSHROOM

for improvement

A better understanding of fungi will allow you to hugely expand upon the flavour potential of mushrooms... that’s this month’s ‘morel’ of the story!

Words & Image: Rob Davis.

1. Shiitake Mushrooms...

Whilst quite meek and mild in their fresh form, drying shiitake mushrooms really concentrates their flavour, giving them a bold meaty flavour. ey go well with pork and steamed fish but can be mixed with other ‘ordinary’ mushrooms too.

2. Yellow Chanterelle...

Foraging the yellow chanterelle is tricky given its similarity to the jack o’lantern and false chanterelle. Best avoided unless you’re absolutely certain of the variety, but generally lighter in colour than undesirable lookalikes.

Ideal in soups and duxelle stuffing or sauce.

3. Puffball Mushrooms...

One of the most common wild species, puffballs MUST be pure white, marshmallow-ey, with no gills to prevent confusion with lookalikes. You can fry slices of puffball in butter and dip them in beaten egg and breadcrumbs and fry again, then serve with garlic mayonnaise and foraged hairy bitter cress.

4. Porcini (Cep) Mushrooms...

Soak and enjoy in porcini risottos, add flavour to stews, soups and stocks, or use them in pasta dishes. One of the most intensely flavoured and versatile mushrooms available.

5. Chestnut Mushrooms...

Chestnut mushrooms are best used raw or cold in salads, pasta dishes, and quiches. ey can be sautéed, used in soups or omelettes, with a stronger taste than button mushrooms, a darker appearance and pink or brown gills.

IT’S THE MOREL OF THE STORY

The golden rule when foraging for mushrooms is to never pick anything you can’t identify with 100% accuracy.

There are many misconceptions, including the idea that ‘prettier’ mushrooms are safe whilst ugly ones are toxic. That simply isn’t true. Take the True Morel (below) for example... it’s hardly attractive looking but is, in fact, one of the most prized foraging delicacies! n

6. Forestiere Mushrooms...

Interestingly Forestiere is the newest strain of mushroom to be cultivated. ey’re much sweeter than other varieties, and their colour doesn’t seep away, making them ideal for dishes like risottos where a dark colour is desirable.

7. Girolle Mushrooms...

Apricot yellow in appearance, perfect with heavy meat dishes like bone marrow, and especially good with game. Nutty, peppery flavour, best used in a cooked breakfast as an accompaniment to bacon and eggs. ey can also accompany pasta dishes.

8. Pied de Mouton Mushrooms...

Also known as hedgehog mushrooms, their name translates into ‘sheep’s foot,’ alluding to its ideal use to accompany lamb dishes.

Lighter taste than other varieties, use them in casseroles, cooked slowly. Usually one of the later varieties in the year to pop up in the countryside for foragers to enjoy.

9. Button Mushrooms...

Mass-cultivated mushrooms, with a mild taste and versatility. eir small size makes them ideal for use in bolognese and other tomato-based sauces where texture is more important than overall flavour.

10. Black Trumpet Mushrooms...

e dramatically named Black Trumpet is also known as the Trompe de Mort or Horn of Plenty. You’re unlikely to confuse this with other varieties, and they’re readily found among leaf litter. Smoky taste, great in soups or as a vegetarian meat substitute. n

Find Out More: With thanks to John Dorrian of Smithy Mushrooms; www.smithymushrooms.co.uk.

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In the KITCHEN

is month we take to the kitchen to make a meal out of marvelous mushrooms...

CREAMY MUSHROOM SOUP with garlic toasts Preparation time:15 minutes. Cooking time: 30 minutes

2 tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, roughly chopped • 2 celery stalks, chopped • 2 sprigs thyme • 500g foraged mushrooms 1.2 litres vegetable stock, hot • 2 tbsp dried porcini nushrooms • 1 half ciabatta loaf, cut into 8 slices • 1 large clove garlic, halved • 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley • 100ml single cream Heat one tablespoon of the oil in a large saucepan and cook the onion, celery and thyme for five minutes until softened.

Add the fresh mushrooms, cook for two minutes, then stir in the stock and dried mushrooms. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat a ridged griddle pan and cook the slices of bread for one or two minutes each side until bar-marked.

Rub the toast with the cut surface of the garlic, drizzle with

oil and sprinkle with parsley. Remove the soup from the heat, discard the thyme stalks, then using a stick blender, whizz until smooth.

Divide among serving bowls, drizzle with the cream and serve with the garlic toasts on the side.

Try swapping the parsley for fresh tarragon – its aniseed flavour works really well with the mushrooms and cream. n

Recipes & Dishes: Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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RISOTTO with CHICKEN & PORCINI MUSHROOM

Prep time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 30 minutes.

Ingredients: 30g Porcini Mushrooms • 2 tbsp olive oil 350g Chicken Breast • 2 Echalion shallots, very finely chopped 2 x 28g Knorr Chicken Stock Pots • 1 clove garlic, crushed 2 sprigs thyme • 250g risotto rice • 150ml dry white wine 50g Parmesan grated, plus extra to serve

Soak the mushrooms in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain. Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a large, wide saucepan over a medium heat, then add the chicken and fry for about 4-5 minutes until cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Add the remaining oil to the pan, then add the shallots and fry for 1-2 minutes until softened and just beginning to colour. Stir the stock pots into 1 litre of boiling water.

Add the garlic, thyme and risotto rice to the pan and stir well for a further minute, until the oil has coated the grains of rice. Pour in the wine and allow to bubble, then add ladles of the stock. Simmer, and allow each ladle to be absorbed before adding another. Add the mushrooms & chicken, cook for a further 6-8 minutes. Stir in the butter and cheese. n

STEAK, MUSHROOM & ALE PIE Prep time: 30 minutes. Cooking time: 2 1/2 hours.

Ingredients: 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 800g Beef Diced Braising Steak • 2 large onions, chopped • 4 rashers smoked streaky bacon 4 tbsp plain flour, plus extra for dusting • 300ml Theakston Old Peculiar 400ml beef stock • 2 tsp muscovado sugar • Thyme or rosemary 2 carrots, cut into chunks • 200g button mushrooms 500g shortcrust pastry • Milk for brushing

Heat half the oil in a large saucepan and brown the diced steak then set aside. Add the remaining tbsp of oil to the pan and cook the onions and bacon for five minutes until softened.

Add the flour and cook for a minute then stir in the ale, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Stir in the stock, sugar, herbs, carrots and browned meat, cover and simmer very gently for 2 hours until the beef is tender.

Preheat the oven to 220ºC, gas mark 7. Stir the mushrooms into the filling then transfer to a pie dish. Dampen the rim of the pie dish with a little water. Roll the pastry out place over the filling. Trim the edges, pressing down well, use the trimmings to cut out leaves to decorate the top. Make a hole in the centre of the pie then brush all over with milk. Place on a baking tray and cook for 30mins until the pastry is golden. n

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AUTUMN TARTLETS WITH BACON & MUSHROOM

Prep time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 30 minutes.

Ingredients: 1 tsp olive oil • 150g smoked back bacon, trimmed of fat and cut into bite-sized pieces • 1 onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed • 300g chestnut mushrooms, sliced 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves • 1 x frozen Puff Pastry Sheet, defrosted • 2 tbsp half fat crème fraîche • Green salad, to serve

Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and add the bacon. Cook for two minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon starts to brown.

Transfer to a bowl using a slotted spoon. Add the onion, garlic and mushrooms to the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden, stirring occasionally. Add the thyme leaves and cook for another minute. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Cut the pastry into quarters and transfer to a baking sheet.

Using the tip of a sharp knife, score a 1cm border around the edges of the pastry, taking care not to cut all the way through.

Spread the crème fraîche over the pastry, inside the border. Top with the bacon and mushroom mixture and bake for 20–25 minutes until risen and golden. n

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The Champagne of the Möment

Feeling Frivolous...

Krug Collection 1989

Möet & Chandon have been really smart with their marketing over the last few years, not that they particularly need it. In 2013 they launched the #MöetMoment campaign, a hit for social media sites. It was the perfect way to make sure people chose Möet over other respected brands so they could be part of the club. The latest offering from Möet & Chandon, the 2009 Grand Vintage Brut boast the highest proportion of Pinot Noir since 1996, it was a real fruit driven harvest. Expect a fun and fruity taste, bumped up with all of that juicy fruit.

Pinot Noir 47%, Chardonnay 29%, Meunier 24% £580/75cl/12%

The Wine Cellar n £50/75cl/12.5%

IT WAS WINSTON CHURCHILL IN 1946 WHO SAID THOSE VERY FAMOUS WORDS ‘I COULD NOT LIVE WITHOUT CHAMPAGNE. IN VICTORY I DESERVE IT. IN DEFEAT I NEED IT.’ WE LISTENED...

THREE CHAMPAGNES THAT WILL BE THERE FOR YOU WHEN YOU NEED THEM MOST 1. Billecart-Salmon, Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart, Champagne, 2002 is a pale, elegant champagne that has a lot to give. Ready for drinking now. Described by Antoine Billecart as ‘still a baby’.

Rich start and not that frothy. £106/75cl/Marketplace Purchase

2. 1995 Charles Heidsieck, Blanc des Millénaires, Champagne. This champagne has a complex nutty nose of toast and brioche followed by crisp lemon acidity, mineral and saline notes, and crushed oyster shells, infused with mature tropical fruit with butterscotch and toasted nuts. Beautifully refreshing. £149.50/75cl/Old Bridge Wine Shop

3.It’s only right we include Pol Roger when we’ve mentioned Churchill. This magnum is perfect for celebrating with friends. Delicate aromas of ripe fruits, white flowers, sweet spices, toast and brioche. Great depth of fruit. £195/150cl/Tanners

Krug Collection 1989 is a true example of time sublimation; maturity reveals more facets and depth, new flavours surprise while old ones have gained structure. Krug Collection 1989 has a new adventure to live and share.

This champagne sparks new sensations that develop under time’s magical influence, expressing an outstanding new facet of this Champagne.

Krug 1989, originally part of the only trilogy of Krug Vintages in the history of the House. It was presented before Krug 1988.

Krug 1989 not only tells the story of the year captured by Krug but now as Krug Collection, reveals a totally unprecedented personality. It is expressive and opulent. Pair with autumnal fruits, dripping honey-raosted figs, barely-set apricot marmalade, poached pears steeped in their vanilla hinted sweetness... ? n

In the Pink

Everyone’s Favourite Rosé This is one of the world’s most favourite pink champagnes of all time. It comes in the beautiful feminine shaped salmon pink bottle. Unusually for a rosé, this champagne is made by allowing the wine to get some colour from the grape skins, rather than blending in a bit of red wine, something that other wine makers don’t often risk doing. There’s excellent precision along with tasty strawberries and cherries. It’s a refreshing fizz, perfect to pair with fish dishes or to simply enjoy with an extra large bar of chocolate. n £54/75cl/12%

n Our featured wines are available from

the best local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary from those stated.

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Christmas Day at

The Old Barn At Wadenhoe

Arrive at 12.45 to Canapés

STARTERS King prawn cocktail in rose Marie sauce

Old barn chicken liver pate served with rustic toast, garnish and Christmas chutney

Parsnip soup, parsnip crisp and walnut bread MAINS Local turkey with all seasonal trimmings, roast potatoes, parsnips, green beans, brussels

and spiced red cabbage Beef in port shallot sauce, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables Luxury fish pie with prawns, haddock and scallops all served with seasonal vegetables Vegetable Wellington served with seasonal vegetables DESSERTS Old Barn Christmas pudding served with brandy sauce Trio of desserts

Christmas pudding cheesecake Lemon posset Sherry chocolate trifle Cheese board served with local cheeses biscuits and crackers

ALL THIS FOR £65 PER PERSON WE ARE NOT LICENSED SO IT'S BRING YOUR OWN ALCOHOL, WE PROVIDE GLASSES AND ICE BUCKETS

Mill Lane, Wadenhoe, Nr Oundle PE8 5XD

01832 721129 • www.theoldbarnatwadenhoe.co.uk PUB • RESTAURANT • THEME NIGHTS • PRIVATE EVENTS

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YEAR 2018 Restaurant of the

Rutland & stamford Pride’s annual Restaurant of the year Awards are back and with a twist. ere are six categories to vote in this year; send us your vote and dine for fRee at all of our recommended restaurants...

Words & Images: Tilly Wilkinson.

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The Olive Branch

WIN MEALS

Clipsham, Rutland

FOR TWO

Next year, you could be dining at the beautiful Olive Branch in Clipsham. This pub grows their own produce and are renowned for a wonderful selection of meats from local butchers and farmers.

Not one, not two, but vote in our Restaurant of the Year awards to dine for free in ALL of our recommended restaurants featured here...

Dine out for free in 2019, as we invite you to nominate your favourite restaurants to be in with a chance of winning.

It’s time to launch our annual Restaurant of the Year competition, and the way it works is simple.

We ask our readers to vote for Rutland and Stamford’s best restaurants, then we randomly select one of our voters to enjoy free dining out at our seven prize partner restaurants throughout 2019.

■ The Olive Branch Main Street, Clipsham, Rutland, LE15 7SH. Call 01780 410 355 or visit the website.

The Coach House

South Luffenham, Rutland The Coach House has recently been taken on by new owners with an exciting take on pub food. Expect fine wines, delicious dishes including lobster and plenty of seasonal dishes such as game.

■ The Coach House Inn, 3 Stamford Road, South Luffenham, LE15 8NT. Call 01780720866 or visit the website.

The Wisteria Hotel Oakham, Rutland

“We ask our readers to nominate their favourite restaurants for a very simple reason,” says Rob Davis, Executive Editor. “It gives us a much more objective, comprehensive overview of where our readers like to dine, and frees the awards from any commercial bias.”

The Wisteria Hotel has recently been taken on by new owners, a young happy couple who are now living above the bar. The Hunter’s Kitchen and Bar area is sure to be a hot new eating place in Oakham, it’s definitely one to watch!

■ 4 Catmos St, Oakham LE15 6HW Call 01572 722844 or alternatively you can visit the website.

“You can vote for any restaurant, regardless of whether they advertise or not, and because our readers are based right across the county, and have a wide range of budgets, we’ll see entries from all over Lincolnshire, from village pubs to fine dining restaurants.”

“This year, you can vote for your favourite restaurant, the best place for steak, best for fish, best for Sunday lunch, best for afternoon tea and best for desserts.”

“These can be pubs, restaurants and hotels offering daytime and evening dining.”

One of our lucky voters will enjoy a meal for two at ALL of our seven partner restaurants featured on this page.

You can vote by post by filling out the entry form overleaf or on our website. Good luck!

The Petwood Hotel Woodhall Spa

The Petwood Hotel is in a glorious setting with rich heritage. It’s a country hotel with a difference and acres of gardens to stroll around after your meal. The oak-panelled dining room is fantastic and the food is incredible too.

■ Stixwould Road, Woodhall Spa LN10 6QG. Call 01526 352411 or visit www.petwood.co.uk.

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The Falcon

Uppingham, Rutland

The Falcon has a history of offering the perfect place for people to meet and enjoy good food and wine. The menu is exciting and diverse and features many dishes created with only the freshest local ingredients.

■ Market Place, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY Call 01572 823535 or visit the website www.falcon-hotel.co.uk.

Barnsdale Lodge Barnsdale, Rutland

Barnsdale Lodge is a stunning restaurant close to the shores of Rutland Water. It’s beautiful setting combined with delicious food makes for the perfect foodie location in this area. No matter what the weather, you can relax at Barnsdale Lodge.

■ The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH Call 01572 724678 or visit the website www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk

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ENTRY FORM (cut out)

Best Steak

Where is the best place in the county you have visited for a classic steak dish?

Best Sunday Lunch Where is the best place for a Sunday roast? Preferably after a long walk!

Restaurant of the Year

Vote for your favourite place to dine in and visit in Stamford & Rutland?

Best Dessert

Whether your tastes are chocolate or fruit-inclined, where’s best for pudding?

Please provide your name, address, and number (we will need to contact you if you’re our lucky winner!): Name:..................................................................................

Address: ............................................................................... ............................................................................................

Postcode: .............................................................................

Telephone: ...........................................................................

Best Fish Dish

This can be shellfish, fish dishes or even your favourite fish and chips.

Best Afternoon Tea

There are many places to enjoy tea and cake, but which one is the best?

Alternatively, you can vote in the Restaurant of the Year Competition on our website by visiting www.pridemagazines.co.uk/Rutland/vote.

Closing Date: Friday 2nd November 2018

Send your entry to Rutland & Stamford Magazines, Restaurant of the Year Awards 2018, Pride Magazines, Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington, Boston PE20 3QF. Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Photocopies/multiple entries will not be counted.

Competition is available to anyone in the county or surrounding area. You must not be personally or professionally allied with nominations. Votes received for each venue will be counted up to determine the eventual three winners for each category and seven runners-up. The Editor’s decision as to our competition winners is final and further terms and conditions may apply.

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PETS

Becoming Part

of the Family

Karin Webber grew up around labradors, dogs were always just part of her family.

However, as Karin left the nest and started out on her own career, she had to leave dogs behind. “Juggling a full-time career alongside having children meant it just wasn’t fair to have pets,” says Karin.

He is already ruling the roost, lying down like a professional puppy for treats and galloping about in the garden.

Thanks to the success of Muddy Mutts & Pocket Pups, Karin is now working from home, completely self-employed. With this, Karin has fulfilled her dream to have a canine companion to keep her company.

Karin has a husband Keith and two beautiful daughters, one is currently studying at University and the other has graduated and is an actor living away from home in Liverpool, but since the arrival of Odie, we think they might be visiting home a little more often than usual. Karin set up Muddy Mutts & Pocket Pups in October 2017 predominantly as an online shop to sell luxury dog products.

Odie’s kennel club name matches his majestic presence, Lord Odie Wolfsbane, and he is going to be the family pet.

n Visit www.muddymuttsandpocketpups.co.uk.

The bundle of joy is a labrador puppy called Odie, a handsome chap who behaved impeccably when we visited even though he’d only been at his new home for three days. Odie came from a friend of a friend who had decided to breed from their labrador.

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However, if you’re local to the area, you may know Chloe Crowther from Rutland Dog Grooming who stocks Karin’s products in her shop in Uppingham. On Muddy Mutts & Pocket Pups website you’ll find very high-end products, most of which are hand made in the UK. Brands such as Hunter feature. Keep an eye on the website for new products sure to please your pooch (and maybe you too).

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Online

What you’ll find A few of the fantastic products that you’ll find online at Muddy Mutts & Pocket Pups....

Explorer Collection This collection includes the dog sofa from £74.25, cushion £62.65 and blanket £56.25.

Anti bacterial and water and dirt repellent due to Silver Plus and Bionic treatment.

Explorer bowls from £15.90 and splat mat at £22.05.

Luxury Blanket The luxuriously super soft Konstanz blanket is ideal for travelling or at home, perfect for keeping the sofa pet free or even a warming blanket for your lap so that you can snuggle down with your pup. Machine washable. From £39.90.

Pampeano Polo Collars These beautifully stylish collars and leads are hand made in Argentina. The collars are available in three colourways and six sizes £35.

Leads available in standard or skinny width at £39.

Capri Collars The finest quality smooth nappa leather lined with contrasting soft leather. Available in five vibrant colours and six sizes from £27.50.

Matching leads available in standard width at £42.50 and skinny leads at £37.50.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

If Walls Could Talk

There is some seriously impressive history in this enormous property in North Luffenham.

The home has been in the same possession for over 30 years but now, Mr and Mrs Robinson have decided it’s time for another family to enjoy this home’s quirks...

Words: Georgie Fenn

Andrew Robinson bought Stonecroft 30 years ago when he was working in Leicester. “Andrew had two daughters and he wanted to move to this area because it’s surrounded by really good schools,” Andrew’s wife Kathy tells me. From the original photographs of Stonecroft, you can see how much the whole area has changed.

Before Andrew, there were only rose bushes in the gardens and hardly any trees. Now, you’ll find Stonecroft rich in trees and plants as you wander around the extensive garden area.

Kathy and Andrew have been married for ten very happy years and enjoyed every single aspect that this home has to offer. The photos truly do not give the house justice. It’s enormous, with so many quirky historical features, endless gardens and even its very own Voysey bedroom complete with Voysey fireplace. There are also some charming outbuildings including a very tucked away shed in the gardens. Outbuildings can be adapted into whatever you like!

You could even have a little cosy outside for a private place outside of the home if you so wished, the options are endless. With such

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“It’s enormous, with so many quirky historical features, then endless gardens and even it’s very own Voysey bedroom complete with Voysey fireplace.” an established garden, this property is ready for someone to enjoy it and relax. Stonecroft has a formal entrance hall giving access to the principal ground floor rooms. These include a drawing room with paneling to the walls, a feature fireplace with a log burner and a stone mullion bay window looking out to the garden.

The large kitchen has a gas fired AGA, a good number of cupboards and drawers under solid wooden worktops and stone mullion windows looking out to the garden.

Off the kitchen is a walk-in pantry providing useful storage which then flows through to a rear boot room/utility, with a door out to the garden. The utility room has ample white goods space and also houses the gas central heating boiler.

The dining room has a stunning Inglenook fireplace with a working Victorian fireplace inset. This room, like the drawing room, has paneling to the walls and lovely features such

as the old salt cupboards. There are many original features from when Dr Newman, an eminent physician and surgeon to Stamford and Rutland Hospital, lived at the property.

Dr Newman lived in Stonecroft from approximately 1891, when it was called ‘The Cottage’.

The accommodation continues with a snug that also has a working Georgian fireplace and a stone mullion window. Kathy tells me they have this fireplace going all winter and it creates a lovely cosy atmosphere. There is a downstairs lavatory & shower and a substantial dry cellar, suitable for wine storage. The first-floor accommodation comprises five bedrooms, four of which are good sized double rooms and one generous Left: The master bedroom has stunning built in wardrobes that provide plenty of space.

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single. The two principal bedroom both have stone mullion windows looking over the garden, and built in wardrobes. The bedrooms are all served by two bathrooms on the first-floor level. From the landing the staircase continues up to the second floor where there are two attic rooms, ideal for storage but also usable as bedrooms or an office.

North Luffenham is a delightful village ideally located for the market towns of Oakham, Stamford and Uppingham. Rail stations are close by in Oakham and Stamford with connections to the Midlands and Peterborough offering links to many London stations. This historic and characterful village property was last on the market 30 years ago. It really must be viewed to be appreciated, perfect.

STONECROFT NORTH LUFFENHAM Location: North Luffenham Style: Grade II Listed Stone Bedrooms: Six bedrooms and beautiful views over the garden.

Receptions: Three, two of which have open fires.

Other Features: Outbuildings, Utility & Pantry, Aga, Huge Gardens, Parking, Cellar, Fireplaces and Voysey Room.

Estate Agent: James Sellicks Guide Price: ÂŁ1,250,000.

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Interior Design Soft furnishings Re Upholstery Bespoke Furniture

Fabric Wallpaper Paint Lighting Furniture Carpet

www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk

17a and 27 Mill St Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA 01572 722 345

Colefax and Fowler Crucial Trading Charlotte Gaisford Christopher Farr Designers Guild Fermoie G P and J Baker Jacaranda Jane Churchill Kate Foreman Larsen

Nina Campbell Osborne and Little Pierre Frey Porta Romana Ralph Lauren Roger Oates Romo Sahco Thibaut Vanessa Arbuthnott Villa Nova Voyage William Yeoward Zoffany

Alternative Flooring Andrew Martin Anna French Arte

Linwood Manuel Canovas Mark Alexander Mulberry

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HOMES & INTERIORS

GEBERIT STYLE What’s new at Orchid Bathrooms?

When you look at your bathroom, what do you see?

Orchid Bathrooms see an inspiring space full of possibilities.

Like the liberating and hygienic enhancing shower toilet technology of Geberit, Europe’s leading luxury bathroom innovator...

Thanks to this innovative technology from Geberit, cleaning with water will soon become second nature. New to the showroom, the Geberit AquaClean Mera offers a unique well-being experience, packed with revolutionary comfort features.

The patented WhirlSpray shower nozzle ensures a particularly thorough and gentle clean whilst using the smallest volume of water.

With just the touch of a button, the AquaClean guarantees freshness and cleanliness all day long. Equipped to a very high standard, the model includes highly effective odour extraction, an intelligent warm air dryer and user-friendly remote control, which allows you to operate the various functions in an intuitive way to suit your personal preferences.

Experience the luxury of a working Geberit AquaClean for yourself now in the Orchid Bathrooms showroom, plus purchase the AquaClean shower toilet and receive a free Geberit flush plate*.

Whatever your requirements, Orchid Bathrooms, situated in the heart of Peterborough is your go-to, offering a full service solution from showers and wet rooms to toilets and tiles.

Whether you’re creating a brand-new bathroom or revamping your existing room, Orchid Bathrooms offer the widest range of bathroom furniture designs to make the very best use of the space available.

Designing bathrooms since 1998, the family-run Orchid Bathrooms, owned by Daniel and Jemma Irvine will guide you through the process of creating your bathroom Right: Geberit AquaClean Mera Comfort, wall-hung WC: gloss chrome - £5,853. Geberit AquaClean Mera Classic, wall-hung WC: white - £3,392.

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of dreams, from design to installation, the team will be with you every step of the way offering a bespoke and truly personal service.

With Orchid Bathrooms you can guarantee that your bathroom design will be as unique as you are, individually designed with your input, to make your bathing utopia a reality.

The free planning service, available to access online, is a great place to start, helping you to map out your vision, explore bathroom ideas and experiment with different layouts before choosing what products are right for your room.

Begin building your bathroom of dreams with Orchid Bathrooms today, visit the Peterborough showroom on Mount Pleasant, Stanground, PE2 8HW, log on at www.orchidbathroomsltd.co.uk or call the team direct on 01733 569226 to get started.

n Receive a free flush plate when you purchase a Geberit AquaClean shower toilet from Orchid Bathrooms. Choose from either a Sigma 50 White Alpine flush plate or a Sigma 50 jet black flush plate.

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l Full interior design service available

l Made-to-measure curtains and blinds l Bespoke sofas, chairs, and footstools

l Re-upholstery service to bring tired furniture back to life l Curtains with poles and tracks

l Suppliers of Little Greene Paint, paint and paper library l Fabrics and wallpapers from Cole & Son, Linwood, Romo, GP & J Baker, Mulberry, Voyage, Clarke & Clarke, Abraham Moon and many more

Visit our showroom or call to make an appointment for a home visit...

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HOMES & INTERIORS

SHOWSTOPPING

SURFACES

A lot of people are afraid at the prospect of using a fine material such as granite, but Olympic Marble, an exciting company based in Peterborough, show us just how simple it is to transform a very average room into a showstopping masterpiece by just adding some natural texture...

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Olympic Marble has been working from Peterborough since 2004 after the company moved over from Greece to bring their expertise to a new clientele. The fabulous trio behind this business, John, Nick and Van are all family, passionate about marble and extremely experienced in the world of stone masonry. Whether you’re looking to turn your kitchen into a piece of art, or you’d simply like to add a bit of marble to the surface of your bathroom sink, no job is too big or too small for these guys and they would only be too happy to help. The materials come over from Greece, Italy and the rest of the world and include marble, granite and quartz. They also lay natural stone tiles, something that is becoming more and more popular in this area as an attractive alternative to the regular wooden or laminate flooring.

Whether you’re from Stamford, Rutland, Peterborough or much further afield, the team at Olympic Marble will be happy to work with you to create your dream home. They’re also totally open to ideas, so no matter how whacky the design is that you’ve discovered, they’re there as a friendly face to help you make it a reality. The projects they work on are often kept private, but these photos only show half of what they’re capable of. Simply adding a bath surround with double edging can transform a bathroom and make it seem very grand. They have even built entire swimming pools with their materials. There are always over 150 slabs in stock for the general public to go and view to find inspiration or to choose for their own project. They use CNC machines and diamond-edged blades for the perfect finish on their marble. This truly is a luxury product that you should add to your home where you can to turn your home from ordinary to extraordinary with the help of natural materials. n

NO JOB IS TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL, YOU CAN ADD A LITTLE LUXURY TO YOUR HOUSE WHEREVER YOU’D LIKE TO...

Find Out More: Olympic Marble 15 Wainman Road Peterborough PE2 7BU 01733 687414 www.olympic-marble.co.uk

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Famous

ER

WINT

LouE A S t on c is nlaced p 20% D

rders ALL o 1st October! by 3 ing you the ...sav alent of equiv r VAT! you

DISTINCTIVE HOME

BATHROOMS

Providing Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding areas with a quality bathroom service...

We only supply top brand components and install to impeccable standards.

High quality family bathrooms, en suites, wet rooms and shower rooms, and mobility bathing solutions, all at affordable prices.

DH Bathrooms’ small team of hand picked, master craftsmen will amaze you with their ability and attention to detail...

01526 830058 07971 293682

We provide free advice, designs and a competitive, no obligation quotation...

www.dhbathrooms.co.uk

Your local cabinetmaker specialising in bespoke furniture commissions

Contact us to discuss your ideas or visit the website to find out more

www.simplywood.co.uk 07977 236353 sales@simplywood.co.uk

NAMES ANTIQUES How do you make a mundane item interesting?

One way is let a top designer put their mark on it.

A pair of Brian Asquith (1930 - 2008) candlesticks offered in our Grantham auction, emphasises the importance of attaching a name to an object to enhance interest in it.

Born in Sheffield and studying under the tutorage of Frank Dobson with frequent trips to France and the backdrop of the 1951 Festival Of Britain, this 20th century powerhouse of design was both the top of the tree academically: teaching throughout an extinguished career at esteemed locations from The Royal College Of Art, Sheffield College and the College at Barnsley amongst others, he was also at the top of the tree creatively: with the remodelling of his hometown Peace Gardens, the re-designing and enhancing of various churches and cathedrals – with the church at Ruislip being a notable achievement and a basic influence in so much 20th century design from introducing drop in Magnet kitchens to the full design and execution of religious interiors.

Never mind these larger studies, the candlesticks at just over 8cm high, ooze Post Modern futuristic design. They are dated 1971 and 1972, but could so easily be 2018 or even 2030. They are so before their time, they are a traditional artefact which has been taken and modernised so it can juxtapose in the modern household… this is very clever stuff in deed.

They tick boxes in terms of desirability too: they are design classics, are a pair, useful, stylish and most importantly are associated with a good name.

Similarly the pair of Archibald Knox (1864 – 1933) candlesticks in Tudric Pewter in the same sale puts emphasis on the importance of a name further: produced by a leading figure in a desirable style years before their time, they suddenly become desirable items not just for how they look, but who thought up their idea and creation.

There is nothing more normal than a candlestick, but a Knox or Asquith candlestick? Now you are talking! n With best wishes, Craig Bewick, MRICS. Auctioneer Golding Young & Mawer, Grantham.

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

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The New Window Company:

How to Reduce Your Annual Energy Bills...

This month, Roy Wakeman OBE and chairman of the New Window Company discusses the way new windows and doors can contribute to reducing your annual energy bills...

THE NEW WINDOW CO.

The high demand for double glazing in the late 1970s and through the 1980s was driven by poorly maintained windows and doors that were installed in the post war building boom. The motivation for the purchase was driven by the increase in home ownership and the deterioration of existing windows which were single glazed wood or steel framed, drafty and kept little heat in the house. Keeping up with the neighbours was also a driver with little thought other than the added insulation from double glazing was evident.

Aluminium was the first material used for frames by double glazing firms that initiated the sale and then came uPVC which by the end of the last century was the dominant material.

Improvements in the development of engineered timber components have now made wood a suitable material for the frame to give longer life expectancy and other key benefits, like security and ability to meet conservation requirements.

Today the world has moved on and we now must face up to the changing climate, cost and replacement of fossil fuels and the need to conserve energy. We are being told every day how to insulate our houses, reduce our energy bills and prepare for the future by recognising the change being made in the Building Regulations and Codes of Practice.

A deposit guaranteed scheme is available and a fully trained competent team of fitters will install your new windows and doors and take away the old for re-cycling.

Today’s Windows having been tested and assessed by the British Fenestration Energy Rating Council and can have an energy rated label just like a fridge does. The ratings are classified as A being the best down to E.

Double glazed and factory finished windows and doors offered by the New Window Company can meet all levels of ratings, in casement and sliding sash models. Also, we have products available for listed properties.

On the back of the awareness now of global warming, the carbon foot print is all important. For housing the goal had been set by the Government under The Code for Sustainable Homes that by 2016 all new housing being built will be Zero Carbon. This means that any energy consumed in the process and the ongoing running must be offset by carbon gains and renewable energy resources. There’s doubt that this was achieved as the government dropped the Code.

The windows are also tested to the very latest security performance standards to the latest building regulations.

Flush cottage style and lipped storm proof casement, sliding sash for contemporary and heritage houses plus a full range of performance doorsets to suit all the styles required.

So not only will you be helping to get your energy costs down, but you will also add considerably to the value of your property.

Most manufacturers of building products have been working on new product areas and development to tap into this growing demand. It’s not surprising then, that the leading quality brands in the window and door market offered by the New Window Company are at the forefront of this technology.

Chairman: Mr Roy Wakeman OBE. For more information: All are available from the New Window Company Ltd, with large showrooms at Freiston Heath near Grantham.

Website: newwindow.co.uk.

Call: 01400 272538.

Email: enquiries@new window.co.uk.

One thing is for certain; you can now get modern windows and doors that are built to satisfy the future energy and ECO standards from the New Window Company at Freiston Heath near Grantham.

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Soho House

Soho Home Renwick cushion in duck egg blue, £50.

Laura Ashley

Belvedere Embroidered Midnight Cushion, £50.

Mynn London

The Soho cushion in blue and white, £65.

BRIGHT &

BLUE-TIFUL

Jonathan Adler

Jonathan Adler’s retro Milano concentric loops cushion, £128.

Laura Ashley

Peacock Beaded Cushion to match the Belvedere collection, £50.

Add a touch of cobalt or periwinkle to your home with these luxury display cushions from designer home brands...

Michael Murphy

Michael Murphy Home Furnishing’s Moonstruck navy cushion, £35.

Bluebell Gray

The Tom Square cushion with navy frill, £65.

Elizabeth Scarlett The Palmier cushion in Chambray, £50.

To purchase any of the cushions featured here, visit each designer’s website: www.sohohome.com, www.lauraashley.com, www.mynnlondon.com, www.uk.jonathanadler.com, www.bluebellgray.com, www.michaelmurphy.ie and www.elizabethscarlett.com.

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A fresh look to YOUR home

Visit our showroom at: Unit 1 Titan Drive, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5XG

Tel: 01733 897679

www.freshwaterbathrooms.co.uk

25 large room settings in our extensive showroom

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens • Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display • Design, manage, supply & fit • Over 60 appliances on show The best quality, best value & best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

"Overjoyed with the transformation; with the practicality of the working kitchen and the way that the project was managed seamlessly.”

Your local appointed Sheraton dealer and Neff Master Partner

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

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

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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

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LUXURY BEDROOMS

DREAMS THE BEDROOMS THAT

ARE MADE OF Words: Rob Davis.

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“We are such stuff as dreams are made of...” declared Shakespeare, and if you dream of a luxury bedroom, we’ve some stunning beds and linens to ensure you enjoy a really sweet dreams...

Left: Revival Beds’ Ambassador, a superb addition to the oldest country cottage or farmhouse. Natural oak, four natural wax finishes or 10 painted options, also available as a four poster. £1,127 - £3,720 call 01777 562037 or see revivalbeds.co.uk.

Above: Martello and Willersey £995£1,755 set, Barker & Stonehouse www.barkerand stonehouse.co.uk.

Right: Willis & Gambier’s Louis Philippe bed £1,184; wardrobe £1,020, bedside cabinet £249; 01733 318400, willisgambier.co.uk.

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Below: The beautiful Hypnos Pillow Top Sapphire Diamond storage divan from Portess Furniture in Oakham. To check stocks and enquire, call 01572 722052 or visit Portess.Furniture.

Bottom: Hoxton contemporary luxury brass or nickel four poster by And So To Bed, King £5,652; Super King £5,940. Contacts as above.

Opposite: This stunning bedroom features the Hypnos Penthouse Room bed with drawers from Portess Furniture in Oakham. To enquire, call 01572 722052 or visit Portess.Furniture.

The Best Mattresses

Choose a pocket spring mattresses over open spring ones, latex if you suffer from allergies, or memory foam if you don’t mind the ‘sinking’ sensation; Tempur Contour Luxe £3,349/S’King.

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PURE WHITE LUXURY LINENS

Luxurious pure cotton bed linen you can snuggle under this season...

Camborne, The White Company

400 thread count Egyptian Cotton Sateen bed linen for comfort and enhanced sleep. Double to Emperor, £110/Double duvet, £125/King duvet cover, £30/P’Case, 020 375 89 222, www.thewhitecompany.com.

Autography, Marks & Spencer

Made from 750 thread count Supima, the world’s finest cotton, these sheets are unbelievably soft, smooth and comfortable to sleep in. Single to Super King, £145/S’King duvet cover, £25/P’Case, www.marksandspencer.com.

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1,200 Thread Count, John Lewis

These 1,200 thread count duvet covers and pillowcases are made from 100% ultra-fine quality cotton, woven to produce a satin finish. Single to Emperor. £190/Single duvet, £325/S’King duvet cover, £45/P’Case, www.johnlewis.com.

Belledorm Sateen Weave, Oldrids

Luxurious Belledorm 1,000 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Bedlinen is one of the finest ranges of bed linen available, silky smooth touch helping towards a great night’s sleep, £80/King Flat Sheet; £20/P’Case, www.oldrids.co.uk.

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OUTDOORS

The Old Vicarage

e Old Vicarage is positioned so that it overlooks the parkland of Burley estate but sits within its own private tranquility. It’s truly remarkable what Sandra Blaza and her husband Jonathan have achieved with the space, we catch up on the latest additions to the garden...

Words: Georgie Fenn. Images: Sandra Blaza’s.

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GREAT FIGURES

The Old Vicarage is a beautiful garden spread over three carefully plotted acres, overlooking This year alone, hosting open the Vale of Catmose at the front and the garden days throughout May parkland belonging to Burley House at the and June, The Old Vicarage back. By the mid-1990s the garden was mainly has raised an impressive which provide the drainage laid to grass with only some established trees and £8,000 for the NGS. needed for herbs. The beds snowdrops to break up the view. However, over the surrounding this centrepiece last fifteen years, the garden has been transformed grow various vegetables, herbs and into a fairly classical beautiful British garden. cutting flowers including peonies, phlox, There are different areas with their own themes, clearly separated euphorbia and wallflowers. by yew, beech, hornbeam and box hedges. There are two rose gardens, one dedicated to the white rose 'Rosa Macmillan Nurse' and the other complete with old roses and some hardy geraniums, peonies, a clematis and Siberian irises.

There is a terrace that links the two rose gardens, which reaches it’s peak in the spring with white standard wisteria trees and purple irises behind neat lavender edging. This corner of the garden is completed by a rill which runs out from a circular pond through an avenue of mirrored beds and wisteria. Paths lead from the rill, through to the white rose garden on to a lawn surrounded by borders in various different colour combinations.

Within the walled garden, they have created a hub for vegetables and cut flowers. There are four pairs of vegetable beds and a vine house that shelters grape vines, peaches, nectarines and a delicious selection of tomatoes, aubergines and peppers. The walled garden is 33m long by 25m wide and used to be an overgrown paddock, full of nettles and brambles and crying out for some help. “We intended just to replace on the low stone wall at the south end,” says Sandra. “But somehow we ended up rebuilding and squaring off the whole garden so that we could turn it into a more ornamental vegetable patch.” To draw the eye in to the centre of the garden, they have positioned an interesting David Harber armillary sphere sundial. It is surrounded by four raised stone beds 104

“The vegetable beds are divided into four pairs, which we rotate on a four-yearly basis to reduce problems with pests and low nutrient levels,” says Sandra. “The beds are edged with step-over apple trees. Each pair of beds is joined by simple galvanised arches with plums, pears or apples trained over and has half standard soft fruits (gooseberries, red and white currants) in the outside corners.”

Another new section of the garden is the ‘New Orchard’ as it is known. “It was so neglected that it was surrounded by odd trees which we eventually identified as a massively overgrown privet hedge. The surface had been covered with boiler waste which the yew hedge we later planted grew through very happily,” says Sandra.

“The area served for many years as a yard to store surplus stone, soil and building materials.” These days however it is a different story. The area has been cleared and

Above left top Rosa Gloire de Dijon, a beautiful apricot old rose which looks very good against the local stone Right The latest addition the garden, a pizza oven!

Close Right Sandra and Jonathan planning their next pruning patch.

Above left below Rosa Macmillan Nurse, a beautiful creamy white which flowers until Christmas.

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plums, gages and cherries have been planted within a wild-flower meadow. During the summer months, a path is mown through the orchard and you’ll notice full size wicker sheep grazing, a design made by Caroline Gregson.

One of the most exciting additions is the new wood-fired pizza oven on the terrace planted with Mediterranean species.

“We wanted something that looked like a traditional Mediterranean bread oven, and would cook well.” The pizza oven was installed in the Spring, “It takes a bit of practise, but it cooks pizza in a couple of minutes. It gets extremely hot and you can't leave food to cook on its own, but it has been very exciting experimenting with pizzas, flat-breads and various fish and meats.” It sounds like a lot of fun and extremely rewarding as a lot of what Sandra and

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“No matter how small the changes, everything is different year in, year out, you’ll face new challenges each time...” friends have been using as toppings comes from their very own vegetable garden. “It’s been a fantastic year for aubergines but after the drought the raspberries have been small this year,” says Sandra. “Then we’ve had an endless supply of plums and the blackberries don’t seem to have been affected, it’s so interesting.” Isn’t that the beauty of gardening? No matter how small the changes, is different year in, year out.

THE OLD

VICARAGE Price: Tickets will be £5 each for the Open Garden on May 26th next year (children free). There will be a plants stall, and tea and home baked cakes will be available with all proceeds going to the NGS, who distribute the money to some fantastic charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Parkinson's UK and various hospice charities.

Find Out More: 01572 770588 www.theoldvicarageburley.com n

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Autumn & Winter

GARDENING TIPS As the cooler months approach, now is the time to get your garden ready to face whatever this winter throws our way.

It’s especially important after such a dry summer...

October is the month for preparing the garden for a sleepy winter and continuing to help it recover after the dry summer months.

Cut everything back earlier than you normally would so that it doesn’t have to work so hard to keep itself healthy.

This includes tidying up hedges so that they’re ready for the first frost. Sandra Blaza, the owner of our featured garden this month also suggests that you should start mulching lots of compost.

This means mixing compost with other textures andputting it over the soil you already have down in your garden as a protective layer. Not only will the mulch last

Right: October is a month where you should be focusing on pruning the garden to prepare it for winter.

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well throughout the winter but it will be there in the summer where it will help the soil retain some of its moisture incase we endure another scorching summer.

Essentially, October is a month for clearing up; rake leaves up off the lawn, clear gutters and ponds, sort your greenhouses, finish your harvest and protect your furniture and potted plants.

Finally, if you want a colourful spring to look forward to, now is the time to plant your bulbs, move shrubs around and just generally make sure that when the ground starts to thaw, those beautiful daffodils can start poking up their green shoots up. n

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Harvest

Pick Your Own

Now is the time to pick your pumpkins.

Considering we have had such a dry summer, pumpkins are thriving this year! You can make soup, pumpkin pie or simply use your pumpkin to celebrate halloween by carving a spooky design. Hill Farm PYO www.hillfarmpyo.co.uk

Beetroots are a little bit like marmite, some people love them, some people absolutely hate them. October is prime beetroot harvesting time, they’ll taste so much better out of the ground than they will from the supermarket. You can either boil or roast them, delicious!

For carrots like you’ve never tasted before, you ideally want to source them from your own garden. It’s a little bit late to plant them now so your second best option is to go to the local market to get some delicious homegrown carrots.

Enjoy in a carrot and coriander soup.

n Every Friday, there is a market in Stamford and Rutland selling everything from fresh vegetables to high-quality fabric.

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Making the most of your garden

We design every type of garden... large and small, town and country, formal and wild, potted and planted.

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

What do we do?

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

What do you get?

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

What next?

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

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WEDDINGS

Written in the Stars

The stunning wedding of Mark and Daniella Benton at the beautiful location of Kilworth House.

Photographer: Chris Hanley www.chrishanleyphotography.co.uk.

The beautiful marriage of Mark and Daniella really seems to have been a matter of fate. The couple met at University, Daniella was 18 and Mark was her first boyfriend, first love and now husband! “I was studying medicine and he was studying Law,” says Daniella. “We got together in Cardiff while at University but we realised we both came from the same area in Nottingham”. It was only when Daniella was going through old nursery photos that they realised they’d been friends as tiny tots and even had some photos together. It also turned out that their parents knew each other…fate had worked her magic.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS MARK & DANIELLA

“After Mark’s disastrous proposal he gave me free rein on the wedding,” laughs Daniella. “The most important thing for us was finding a venue and deciding on everything else from there. Like lots of brides, Daniella had a Pinterest board full of all her ideas and inspiration, “I always wanted quite a big wedding, I knew it wanted to be elegant and classic.”

“I knew I wanted an orangery and that the wedding needed to be fairly local so that all the grandparents could get there with minimal hassle,” says Daniella. They were stuck between choosing Stapleford Park and Kilworth House when Mark helped make the decision, they were to get married at Kilworth two years after the proposal.

The couple decided to return home to their family after University and so moved from Cardiff back to Nottingham after University. “For one year, I was still at med school and Mark had started working for a solicitor’s firm,” says Daniella. After a year of long distancing, Daniella started working at the Royal Derby. “I want to go into Respiratory medicine, I’m currently a core trainee working in respiratory medicine.”

As proposal’s go, Mark went for the classic ‘shock proposal.’ “It was our sixth anniversary and we’d booked a weekend away in London,” says Daniella. “I was getting ready in the morning and when I came out of the shower, a very nervous Mark appeared in front of me,” bearing in mind that Daniella is in her dressing gown at this point with a towel turban on. “He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him,” Daniella managed to keep a cool head and asked if Mark had asked her Mum for permission. “That was something that was really important to me,” she says. He hadn’t and wasn’t going to let that stop him so dived in the car and drove to her Mum’s place of work, stopping at a florists on the

way to buy a big bunch of flowers.

Thankfully she gave him the go ahead and they managed to get to London and have a beautiful romantic weekend.

Daniella and Mark decided to hire the venue exclusively so they had all the rooms at Kilworth too. “We had the cellar bar afterwards for the after party,” says Daniella, who clearly knows how to throw a party!

Wedding Venue: Kilworth House.

Dress: Bridal Suite, West Bridgford.

Flowers: Floral Deco, Rebecca Caddell.

Photography: Chris Hanley.

Hair and Makeup: Allison Jenner doing hair and Hannah Dora doing makeup.

Cake: Katie Sanderson, Couture Cakes.

Invitations: Cartelier Wedding Invitations.

Band: Mansfield Avenue.

As for all of the details, what you’ll notice from this wedding is that everything is very fresh feeling, light and airy, to follow the feel of the beautifully open orangery. “We wanted light pink and blue flowers originally but I decided they’d been a bit overdone and I wanted something a bit different,” says Daniella.

The flowers did really well on such a hot day, Daniella puts it down to the expertise of the florist. “I also chose the suits because I wanted something a bit unusual,” says Daniella. “Mark wears a three-piece suit everyday for work so we went for these pale suits in the end and my Nana did all the alterations,” says Daniella.

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- WEDDINGS -

“Nana went to all of the dress fittings, she used to be a dressmaker so it meant a lot to have her there each time...”

“Nana went to all of the dress fittings, she used to be a dressmaker so it meant a lot to have her there each time.” Daniella’s dress was from Bridal Suite in West Bridgford. “It was actually the first dress I tried on,” she says. “I went to thousands of shops but in the end, I went back to the shop closest to home.”

Daniella says throughout our chat that brides shouldn’t put too much pressure on themselves to have that ‘moment’ with the dress, the venue, the flowers and everything else where they get really emotional.

As well as Daniella’s Mum and Nana, she says she couldn’t have done the wedding without her Maid of Honour Sarah. “She really kept me on track and even set me wedding homework,” says Daniella.

“Stay true to what you want. Lots of people have opinions about what they think you should have. It’s not about anyone else, it is your day, just do what you want!

Just chill out, and on the day you won’t find it important,” Daniella’s advice to other brides is certainly a breath of fresh air from ‘buy everything otherwise you’ll regret it!”

Following the wedding, Mark and Daniella took a break from their high-pressure jobs and went off to the beautiful Seychelles for ten days.

They had their very own private beach and took the time to completely unwind after all the excitement of the wedding and take some well deserved time off. n 114

Photographer: Chris Hanley www.chrishanleyphotography.co.uk.

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NOT JUST FOR WEDDINGS...

From our Rutland base, Funky Tents can help clients visualise and create wonderful and bespoke marquee spaces for all occasions.

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

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TWEED THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT

AS WE TRANSITION FROM A VERY LONG HOT SUMMER TO MORE AUTUMNAL WEATHER, THESE LOVELY COATS FROM BUTLER STEWART ARE THE PERFECT RESPONSE...

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This page: Tania coat in Willow green. This coat features a striking hot pink undercollar felt and a stunning amber inner lining to show off.

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This page: The gentleman wears the Christopher waistcoat in Brown Oak with the Watson jacket.

The lady is wearing the Joanna jacket.

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This page: Country Coat, ladies waterproof coat in Greenfinch, perfect for dog walks, smart enough for shooting, the perfect versatile coat for the winter months.

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BEAUTY

Shaquda

Suvé Body Brush Short - Soft £140. www.net-a-porter.com

Aromatherapy Associates Polishing Body Brush £25. www.aromatherapyassociates.com

BATHE

Dilly Daydream

Shower Cap, Made in the UK £19.95. www.dillydaydream.com

LIKE A QUEEN

Hemp Body Mitt £7. www.thebodyshop.com

Baths have been proven to help with depression, weight loss, skin conditions, help relieve muscle pain and they even aid sleep. Here are a selection of pamper products to take your bath to the next level!

The Soap Co.

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

The Body Shop

Exfoliating Soap Pebble £14. www.thesoapco.com

SpectraLite Eyecare Pro £168 www.drdennisgross.com

Hydréa London

Olive Wood Body Brush £37.97. www.hyrdrealondon.com

Croll & Denecke

Japanese Sisal Back Strap £8. www.crolldenecke.com

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

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A NEW LEASE OF LIFE:

AN MBST PATIENT STORY

MBST may be something you’ve heard of or come across, but what is it?

In a nutshell: MBST is a therapy that transfers energy directly into the cells of the tissue we treat to stimulate the regenerative processes. This can reduce pain, improve movement in joints and remove the need for surgery.

To give you a better idea of how it works, we asked a patient to tell his story…

I’ve always been an active person. I’ve enjoyed a long career as a soldier, and at 65 I still enjoy an active lifestyle.

Like many people, not just military men, I’ve had a few injuries along the way and suffered from the inevitable wear and tear on various parts of my body, but I just learned to live with it.

However, in 2002, x-rays confirmed compressed L4 and L5 discs and in 2007, significant wear on both knee joints, led to an Arthroscopy to alleviate my pain.

I continued to “manage” my ongoing pain situation with exercises and aids, albeit knowing that conditions attributed to wear and tear would never get better by themselves.

This all changed when one day I was playing golf with a gentleman who mentioned MBST. It occurred to me, the best course of events was to consider MBST right away based on “building on what remains” rather than waiting until there was little left to build on further down the line – a sort of preventative maintenance.

I contacted Cell Regeneration and arranged for a consultation, along with a round of treatments. From the moment the treatment finished I began to feel better and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that my condition has since improved significantly.

The sessions are completely relaxing, there’s no need for undressing, no special garments required, and the treatment couch is comfortable enough for you to either take a nap or read a book. When you consider the non-invasive benefits of MBST over surgery, there really is no competition.

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n If you would like to know how MBST can be used to treat your pain then please email liz@cell-regeneration.co.uk or call 01780 238084.

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KNEE MENISCUS INJURY DR HANY ELMADBOUH, LEAD CONSULTANT AT AVICENNA CLINIC EXPLAINS KNEE MENISCUS INJURY

The knee is the largest joint in the body.

The knee allows the leg to bend where the femur (thighbone) attaches to the tibia (shinbone). There are a variety of structures that surround the knee and allow it to bend and that protect the knee joint from injury.

The quadriceps and hamstring muscles are responsible for moving the knee joint.

These muscles are also important in protecting the knee from being injured by acting to stabilize the knee and preventing it from being pushed in directions that it isn't meant to go.

In addition, there are four internal ligaments that stabilize the knee joint: the medical and lateral collateral ligaments (MCL, LCL) and the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL, PCL). The articular cartilage lines the surfaces of the bones within the knee joint. There are also the medial and lateral menisci which are two thicker wedge Cshaped pads of cartilage between the femur and tibia surfaces. Cartilage within the joint provides the cushioning to protect the bones from the routine stresses of activities

A torn knee cartilage often refers to damage to one of the knee menisci. The meniscus can be damaged because of a single injury event often occur during athletic activities, especially in contact sports like football and hockey. A forceful twist can cause the end of the femur to grind into the top of the tibia, pinching and potentially tearing the cartilage of the meniscus. Motions that require pivoting and sudden stops, in sports like tennis, basketball, and golf, can also cause meniscus damage. The meniscus may 132

be torn because of gradual wear out as we grow older and because of overuse, causing degenerative tears. It is estimated that six out of 10 patients older than 65 years have a degenerative meniscus tear.

Meniscus tears may be associated with other knee injuries such as tears of the collateral and cruciate ligaments, damage to the articular cartilage, bone bruise or bone fractures.

Sometimes meniscal tears do not cause symptoms. At the time of injury, the patient may actually hear or feel a pop in their knee followed by acute pain. Swelling of the knee due to fluid collection (effusion) may occur but this may take a few hours to develop. There may be sudden restriction of knee movement as the torn meniscus block its full extension. This occurs when a piece of torn meniscus folds on itself and blocks full range of motion of the knee joint. This is referred to as locked knee.

After the injury, the knee joint irritation may gradually settle down and feel relatively normal as the initial inflammatory response resolves. However, other symptoms may develop over time and may include any or all of the following: • Pain with running or walking longer distances • Intermittent swelling with tightness sensation of the knee.

• Popping, especially when climbing up or down stairs • Giving way, that is the sensation that the knee is unstable

• Intermittent knee locking

While physical examination may suspect that the meniscus is torn, further investigation

by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is needed to confirm the diagnosis. It is a noninvasive test that can visualize the inner structures of the knee, including the cartilage and ligaments, the surface of the bones, and the muscles and tendons that surround the knee joint.

The treatment of a meniscus tear depends on its severity, location, and underlying disease within the knee joint. Patient circumstances also may affect the treatment options. It is possible to treat meniscus tears conservatively without an operation using anti-inflammatory medications, injection therapy and physiotherapy to strengthen muscles around the knee to prevent joint instability. Patients involved in sport, whose work is physically demanding or when the pain is interfering with daily activities may require surgery.

At Peterborough premier private clinic, Avicenna clinic, we have a range of specialist consultants and state-of-the-art imaging department including the only open MRI in the area to deal with all cases of acute and chronic pain quickly and to deliver tailored comprehensive treatment plans. n To book consultation or for more information, please contact Avicenna Clinic on Tel 0330 202 0597 or see avicennaclinic.com.

Avicenna is based on North Street, Peterborough PE1 2RA.

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BEAUTY

BIG DAYS OUT, WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND ALL DAY BRUNCHES REQUIRE MAKEUP THAT LASTS ALL DAY LONG, IDEALLY WITHOUT BUDGING AN INCH. THANKS TO THE SLIGHTLY UNRELIABLE BRITISH WEATHER, THIS MEANS BEING PREPARED FOR AN INDIAN SUMMER, OR AN EARLY WINTER...

1. It all Begins with Preparation Without exfoliation, oil, bacteria and dead skin cells stack up on the surface level of your skin, which leads to the uneven texture that shows through when makeup is applied. Exfoliate your skin at least two times a week to keep skin smooth so that your makeup lasts longer.

We recommend the deep cleansing exfoliator from the charming French brand Caudalíe. Its purifying texture, infused with grapefruit, mint and sweet orange, provides a refreshing sensation. £20.

2. Tone your Face

Before you put your moisturiser on, it’s important to use a toner if you’d like your face to keep it’s glow all day. Toners balance the pH of your skin for a smoother and brighter appearance. We recommend Clarins toning lotion with Iris, it smells divine! £17.

3. Hydrate your Skin

After you have applied toner, you need a skin plumping moisturiser to provide a base for your makeup. Lancôme's day cream revives the rosy glow of the skin by acting on radiance, plumpness and firmness, it is tailor-made for women aged over 60. £64.

4. Reach for a Primer

For makeup to last all day, a primer is essential! No matter what the weather, primers give you a blank canvas to work with. Make sure you apply it to your eyes too to make your eye makeup pop! Bobbi Brown’s is a bestseller thanks to its rich feel but light and non-greasy effect on your skin. £43.

5.CARRY A POWER POWDER

Everyone has a favourite foundation or concealer and hopefully you’ll know what suits your skin. However, what you may not be used to using is a powder.

If you have done all your skin preparation, there is no reason why a powder would ‘dry out’ your skin as many people believe. Opt for a mineral based powder to keep your skin looking fresh, like the Pure Touch, Micro-fine powder from Delilah.

This transforms skin for an airbrushed finish. £38.

6. Ready, Set, Go

When you’re happy with your makeup, your mascara is ready for the day ahead and you’re looking gorgeous, finish your makeup with a setting spray to ensure it stays in place.

Marc Jacobs Beauty's Re(cover) setting spray prolongs the wear of your makeup while imparting a fresh, radiant glow. The spray is infused with five forms of coconut, including the cold-pressed water, juice and pulp meaning this lightweight mist hydrates, comforts and conditions the skin. Carry it with you to stay hydrated throughout the day, it may also help to keep you cool. £25.

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

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HIGH QUALITY SKIN TREATMENTS & NON-INVASIVE MEDICAL AESTHETIC TREATMENTS FOR MEN AND WOMEN...

All medical aesthetics treatments by a full-time industry leading and expert Aesthetics Doctor...

HydraFacial six stage bespoke Medi-facials for men and women.

Skin tightening with Forma Plus radio frequency and 3rd Generation HiFu, IPL Photo-rejuvenation with Lumecca, Laser hair removal for all skin types and hair colours using mixed wavelength technologies from DiolazeXL, Acne Clinic, Rosacea and Sun damage treatment, Cellulite reduction, Body contouring, PRP and plasma treatments...

342 Welford Rd, Leicester LE2 6EH

0116 270 0123 www.skintiqueclinic.com

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Skin Regeneration with Plasma & Ultrasound Non-invasive skin regeneration. Skin tightening to repair the skin after a summer of skin damage... all thanks to the technology behind plasma and ultrasound based treatments!

As you start to age and after a summer of

Meanwhile, Skintique’s Doublo Gold 3rd Generation HIFU treatment uses ultrasound energy which is able to target the deep structural layers of the skin.

sun-worshipping, you start to notice all sorts of changes in your skin, from fine or deeper lines to wrinkles, hooded eyelids, or pigmentation and sun spots. Historically the only way to treat such concerns was with surgery, injectable treatments or lasers.

Now though, there’s another option in the form of Plasma BT treatments, a high tech process that uses non-invasive plasma (ionised gas which holds an electrical charge) to target many different skin concerns.

The technology can have an outstanding effect on the skin and is able to regenerate tissue. Plasma increases skin elasticity and collagen production whilst also reducing pigmentation and oil production. It is able to sterilise the skin and destroy bacteria, too.

The treatment can also dramatically increase the absorption of cosmeceutical products by up to 120%, making these work more effectively too. Plasma Shower has an anti-pigmentation effect on the skin by suppressing melanin production. Melanin is the pigment in your skin that can form dark patches or marks.

By targeting heat at specific depths it can kick-start the body’s healing response, this naturally increases the levels of collagen in the tissue.

It’s outstanding for treating acne. The plasma technology destroys the bacteria, it sterilises the skin, has an anti-inflammatory effect and reduces sebum (oil) production by 25%. Plasma Shower technology also increases collagen production and cellular regeneration making it a fantastic skin tightening treatment. Studies have shown a 14.8% increase in skin density after a single treatment. It’s a unique treatment that is an extremely fast procedure with no recovery time, used as standalone treatment or when combined with medical grade cosmetics or aesthetic procedures.

As collagen increases, this leads to a gentle lifting and tightening of the skin. That in turn helps to reduce the signs of ageing, for a younger, refreshed appearance. HIFU is able to reach tissues that other anti-ageing treatments can’t. This makes HIFU a very popular alternative to surgery or more invasive treatments such as thread lifts or injectable toxins and fillers.

It can be used for lifting and tightening the jowls, for mid-face contouring, for ‘nose to mouth’ line reduction and to tighten the neck and jaw line, reducing the appearance of hooded eyelids. n Contact the clinic for details at Skintique Clinic, Welford Road, Leicester, call 0116 270 0123 or see www.skintiqueclinic.com. NB: Results vary from person to person and are based on factors such as age, lifestyle habits and medical history.

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GHOSTS & GHOULS

THEY WALK

AMONG US

Words: Georgie Fenn

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“

Is there anything more Autumnal than sitting around the fire with

”

friends and family, discussing ghosts and ghouls, and seeing who can come up with the scariest tale? Here are some entertaining local stories that might keep you awake at night...

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“Retracing their steps from the Priory to Newstead to check on their treasure...”

Spooks, horror, gore, where do we begin?

The industry has taken off, scary movies are no longer just for a niche group but the entire world and they even win awards!

This October, cinemas will be showing the latest horror movies to celebrate Halloween and supermarkets will be stocking spooky masks, sweets and pumpkins galore. In Rutland and Stamford, there are many who embrace the spooky month. You only have to drive along the Collyweston straight to nearly swerve off the road as an inflatable ghoul flutters in the wind. Whether you embrace this holiday or answer to no trick nor treat, we thought we’d try our best to get you in the mood with these fantastic tales of the surrounding areas. Don’t let them put you off dwelling in these picturesque places, they’re only stories after all, aren’t they?

A Treasure Hunt To begin, take yourself to St. Leonards Priory in Stamford...

The fascinating priory was supposedly on the site of a monastery which was founded by St Wilfrid in 658 but destroyed in the Danish Invasion.

Right: The structure that remains of St. Leonard’s Priory in Stamford. Henry VIII, monks and the road they still travel...

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HALLOWEEN

Local Events Ashwell Prison Ghost Hunts in Oakham

Saturday 27th October 2018 Ghost hunting at Ashwell Prison in Rutland is not for the faint-hearted. Haunted Happenings ghost hunts here are truly terrifying. Ashwell Prison, formerly known as HM Prison Ashwell was a Category C men’s prison in the county of Rutland. The site of the former Ashwell prison is located about two miles south from the centre of the village of Ashwell. The prison is vast with many investigation areas making it one of our most interesting haunted locations. Haunted Happenings ghost hunts at Ashwell Prison have given us so much in the way of paranormal activity particularly in one of the main blocks where objects were seen to be moving on their own. It is no wonder that we keep going back for more. n Call 0115 9720570 or visit www.hauntedhappenings.co.uk to book.

Spooky Tours, Burghley

Wednesday 17th October 31st October The tours are designed to be scary but fun. Although not recommended for children under 11, we leave it up to parents to decide as you know your children best! With local ghostly expert Martin Tempest you’ll be led on a ghostly exploration of Burghley House. You’ll be on your feet for nearly an hour so make sure you’re comfortable on your feet.This is an entertaining outing for adults just as much as it is for children. n Call 01780 752451 or visit www.burghley.co.uk.

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THE STORY OF WOTHORPE...

Wothorpe, for such a small village, carries a lot of history. First and foremost there was a Benedictine nunnery that historians believe may have had foundations existing as early as the reign of Henry I. The earls of Kent were the patrons of the convent, and its superiors, chosen by the community and approved by the patron, received confirmation from the bishop on their appointment. As you can imagine, it was a convent of high importance.Tragically, all the inmates of the priory at Wothorpe, save one, died or were dispersed after the Black Death of 1349. This was so disastrous on the finances of the priory that on 11th March, 1353-4, Sir Thomas Holland and Joan his wife, daughter of Edward of Woodstock earl of Kent, the patrons, obtained from the king a license for the bishop to unite this slenderly endowed foundation with the adjacent nunnery of St. Michael,

Stamford, making over to the latter the appropriation of the church of Wothorpe, together with all other possessions of the deserted house. Many years later, at the dissolution the manor, rectory, and advowson of the vicarage of Wothorpe were granted by the crown to Richard Cecil. Wothorpe Towers was built between 1615 and 1623 by Thomas Cecil, Earl of Exeter as a detached lodge (dowager house) for Burghley House. It was partially demolished in 1790 in favour of a working farm. The ruins have been under threat of demolition but thankfully stood the test of time. After being abandoned for some time, the towers and farm were purchased

by Paul and Janet Griffin from the Burghley House Preservation Trust in 2004; they are in the process of renovating the whole property so that it can be visited and enjoyed by the public. www.wothorpe-towers.co.uk n

Above: The stunning towers at Wothorpe. Right: The George Hotel’s cellars are said to be haunted.

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When the priory was still a practising monastery, it didn’t sit well with Henry VIII when he was on his mission to suppress monasteries in the 1530s. He sent his commissioners to Stamford to confiscate all the Church treasure. The six monks at the Priory pleaded poverty and said they had no treasure. A few nights before (they’d obviously had a tip off) they had taken their treasure to a nunnery at Newstead and buried it. It’s said that if you are on Uffington Road at midnight on New Year’s Eve (get it in the diary) you may see the six monks retracing their steps from the Priory to Newstead to check that their treasure is safe...and that’s where the saying ‘You can’t spend it when you’re dead’ comes from (maybe.)

Ungrateful Guests You may have heard of Kilworth House, just south of the County.

A family had a flat there way back when the building had been turned into flats and there had been many a mysterious ‘going on.’ One of the most unsettling, however, was when one lady had recently given birth to a daughter. On the evening of the landing on the moon, she decided to flick her television on and watch the footage. She took the crib and got settled for the big event. Clearly the ghost of the house also wanted to watch as when she turned round at the end of the reporting, she saw that the crib was rocking and her little girl was fast asleep. It didn’t take her long to find somewhere new to live!

A Furry Friend If you’re a Stamford dweller, you will probably hold a slight sense of pride that we have The George Hotel in our town.

A glorious building that provides divine food, service, a comforting coffee on a cosy sofa, it’s like an old friend, always there when needed.

The cellars at The George are outside within the courtyard area. The staff will tell you that the cellar in particular, shares its wine with ghosts. Apparently, one in particular has a penchant for a certain 2010 Clos de Vougeot.

These are ghosts with taste. It’s no surprise that this particular part of The George is haunted as it’s original purpose was that of a mortuary. The present George still holds much of its original structure. On the south side stook the house of the Holy Sepulchre, a hospital of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, sometimes called Knights

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Hospitallers dating back to around 1112. The staff will occasionally be seen reaching for a bottle of red and letting out a yelp as they feel fur. Alas, these aren’t ghosts with great hair but The George’s resident cats keeping everyone on their toes. It must be quite a fearful moment really, picture it. A dark night, fumbling around in the dark for a bottle and grabbing a sleeping pussycat instead, you could imagine the fear, former mortuary, and a creative mind…

A Bit Sheepish Next, we take you to Stocken Hall in Rutland, a private residence that boasts several of its very own ghosts.

Stocken Hall is a beautiful example of an early Georgian House with neo-Elizabethan additions, it later became an open-prison farm.

Rumour has it that when a few of the occupants were walking into the village, their Jack Russell set off with his ears pricked, back the way they’d come.

He stopped under a tree and woofed furiously before trotting back to his friends.

When they turned to see what he’d been barking at they could see a ghostly figure, hanging from the tree. This is said to be the unfortunate soul of a sheep-stealer who was hanged —in the park for his crimes.

For Stocken Hall, the ghosts don’t end there! The most regularly seen spectre is that of a puppy. An unusual suspect for a ghost story, residents reportedly opened the door for said puppy, to see it had vanished into thin air. There’s also a story that it’s made its way into the house and has brushed past the dwellers legs, leaving a burning chill for hours afterwards. Naughty little pup.

There are also reports of a woman in black rushing through the corridors at Stocken Hall...but it seems all of these ghosts are friendly. There are many many ghost stories in Stamford and Rutland, but for now, sweet dreams and happy All Saint’s Eve!

Above: Stocken Hall Rutland. Roundel: Reading Ghost Stories before bed.

Centre: Spooky Stamford’s cobbled streets, no doubt many ghosts have trodden this path.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

Prepared for the Modern Boardroom STAMFORD ENDOWED PREPARES STUDENTS FOR A 21ST CENTURY BOARDROOM

STAMFORD The Stamford Endowed Schools are three independent schools working together to provide a first-class education to pupils aged three to 18. Structured as a diamond, boys and girls are taught together at the co-ed nursery and junior school before splitting to the respective boys and girls senior schools until the age of 16.

This allows for a more tailored and personalised education at every level, either as day pupils or as boarders, before coming back together in a joint sixth form. This model of ‘single-gender academic and mixed co-curricular’ provides the best of all worlds.

Weekly and full boarding options are popular. With strong historic ties to Burghley House, and set in a beautiful market town, students enjoy extensive facilities both in and out of the classroom.

Stamford Endowed Schools

provide an unusually broad range of opportunities to inspire pupils and instil a love of learning. The Schools take pride in helping to develop well-rounded individuals who

Alto Electrical have been busy supporting charity!

IT WAS A WET ONE FOR ALTO ELECTRICAL IN THE COMPETITIVE DEEPING RAFT RACE...

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achieve their full potential.

Independent minds are at the heart of the three Stamford Endowed Schools, preparing Stamfordians for the ‘21st Century Boardroom,’

wherever and whatever that might be. nTo find out more, attend an Open Day this October. Book your place, by calling 01780 750311 or visit www.stamfordschools.co.uk.

STAMFORD When Alto Electrical aren’t climbing ladders and crawling in lofts, they are out supporting their chosen charity, “Scotty’s little soldiers”, a charity that supports the bereaved children of fallen soldiers. The Alto Electrical team reveal their competitive spirit by entered the Deeping Raft Race, addressing the hero’s and villains theme by dressing in bright pink masks and capes with “Your Local Electrical Superhero’s” printed on the back. After making a fantastic start, the team’s raft filled with water and capsized.

Despite this their determination

shined through as they managed to save the children, drag the sodden raft out of the water, empty the water out and carry on their way in good spirits. A very kind local family came to their aid, providing a boat to put the children in whilst trying to get back on stream, also managing to catch the whole episode on camera; you can watch this by heading over to their website. Returning back to the day to day tasks at work they carry on, thankful of dry land. n Call on 01780 693033 to arrange your free consultation or visit www.AltoElectrical.co.uk/blog.

SIMPLY WOOD OPENS IN STIBBINGTON

STIBBINGTON Local businessman Mark Harding has entered the fine furniture marketplace with the opening of his new venture, Simply Wood. “It is very exciting to be entering this market given the revival in the arts and crafts furniture values of good design and exceptional quality. People are moving away from the mass produced and disposable markets and are once again seeking out heirloom quality

furniture,” says the Director, Mark Harding. Working from a dedicated workshop, utilising both modern and traditional tools, the company works with clients to take the smallest inspiration and blend it into the design process for the required piece of furniture.

n To get in touch with Mark Harding and find your dream furniture call 07977 236353 or you can email mark@simplywood.co.uk www.simplywood.co.uk.

Children’s parties made easy with brand new company...

A NEW LOCAL COMPANY PLANS TO TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF CHILDREN’S PARTY PLANNING

Excitement as Starbucks opens in Wittering for A1 stop off

WITTERING The A1 is a tricky stretch of road so the new Starbucks at Wittering will no doubt be a welcome addition to the area. The new store, which is run in partnership with 23.5 Degrees and features a 'drive thru', employs 14 people from the surrounding communities.

The coffee chain was opened in August and has received a steady flow of new customers since. n www.starbucks.co.uk

700,000 people...

Brand New Location

IT HAS BEEN REPORTED THAT over 300,000 people in the UK alone suffer from Autism. This means they are senstive to sounds, smells and contact, essentially experiencing the world at a more intense scale than normal. To help people who struggle with noise, Stamford’s Morrisons are designating a quiet shopping time on Saturdays from 9am until 10am. n

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STAMFORD A new company in Stamford aims to help parents out when it comes to organising their children’s parties. Nisha Patel, the owner of Magical Slumber Parties, said she came up with the concept after doing research online. Essentially, what Nisha will be doing is supplying parents with everything they need from decorations and food to sleeping bags and camping equipment.

All of the equipment will be dropped off on the day of the party and collected the following day so that your house looks like it never had lots of children over, magical! n magicalslumberparties@gmail.com

BUSINESS

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD

LOCAL RETAILER DOES THEIR BIT FOR CHARITY A national outdoor clothing and equipment retailer has launched a campaign that will see its stores across the country support local charities.

Mountain Warehouse has launched a brand new collection of five printed canvas bags available to purchase in all United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland stores.

All of the profits from each bag sold will be donated to over 200 local charities, and each Mountain Warehouse store has nominated a charity to support.

Mountain Warehouse Gates Garden Centre has chosen The Lodge Trust as its nominated charity. The Lodge Trust CEO David Whitmarsh said they were highly appreciate of all donations.

Based in Market Overton the care service is home to 30 residents and also accommodates 15 day service users. n For more information visit www.lodgetrust.org. uk

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“Time is running out!” ...don’t miss it by a whisker!

Don’t miss the 31st October 2018 Paper-Filing deadline for your Self-Assessment. We can help you to prepare your return or switch to electronic filing & gain a 3-month extension!

Payroll, bookkeeping, accountancy, tax services and business advice for individuals, sole traders or companies We’re human (well, apart from Barnstone here), so we promise to talk to you like a human, you know, in a jargon-free, no waffle way!

We’re available during evenings and weekends too, and promise to respond to a client’s queries within 24 hours.

We’re the approachable accountants that make your life easier... so give us a call!

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GENTLEMEN WELCOME TO THE GENTLEMEN’S SECTION. IN THIS EDITION, WE FEATURE DESIGNER MEN’S COATS, A NEW MOTOR FROM MERCEDES, AND THE FINEST LUXURY ACCESSORIES TO FINISH OFF THE GENTLEMAN’S LOOK...

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MOTORS

BETTER

EIGHT

THAN NEVER

For too long Mercedes has let Porsche’s Panamera and Audi’s A7 dominate the four door GT sector, but the firm now has a viable rival with an AMG V8 engine...

Mercedes-AMG 4.0 litre V8, on sale Sept 2018

£160,000 (est)

It happens to the best of us. One minute you’re whizzing around in a two seater GT to the raspy tune of a creamy V8 engine... the next? Other considerations, other priorities. Rear seats. Luggage space. Room for the family. Room for the golf clubs.

Fortunately, of late, keen drivers have had a choice of cars that look very much like a traditional two-door two-seater GT, have all of the executive toys of top Mercedes Benz and BMW models, and, in terms of performance, go like absolute stink.

As Audi’s A7 four door sportback model moves further from its A6 forebear and closer to Porsche’s Panamera; as the latter proves more popular year on year; and as Tesla joins the fray with its Model S sports saloon, Mercedes was starting to seem a little left behind in the sports executive saloon/coupé/GT field. No longer though, for now there’s a four door, four seater version of its flagship AMG GT muscle car. There’s an Affalterbach sourced V8, a swish interior, and most importantly, it looks absolutely phenomenal. >>

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GT? Saloon? 4x4? Our three favourite eight cylinder cars...

Aston Martin Vantage 4.0V8: The GT option for those seeking one of the best V8 engines actually shares a good deal of its mechanical parts with the Mercedes featured here. Aston Martin’s svelte body has two seats and a good sized boot, not to mention a cabin which boasts modern switchgear. Performance tops out at 195mph, and 60mph is reached in 3.6 seconds. Unlike the Mercedes, though, the driving experience is more analogue, with rear wheel drive and an eight speed auto gearbox n

BMW M5 £89,705: The original wolf in sheep’s clothing, BMW’s M5 has evolved to fulfil the brief of supercarkilling beast, and executive saloon. Not only will the M5 reach 190mph when unrestricted and on a track, and achieve 60mph in 3.4 seconds (faster than the Mercedes above!), it also has five seats, a generous 530 litre boot and all of the luxury specification associated with the sobre-suited 5-Series it’s based on. The only problem? You’ll get 90% of the performance and better economy from more modest 5-Series models. n

>> There’s a flowing GT silhouette, frameless side windows, flat windscreen and slim LED headlights, plus a rakish roofline and a high shoulder line for a sports car look. Eight cylinder models have side louvres, tail diffuser and trapezoidal exhaust trims.

Inside you’ll find a dashboard lifted straight from Mercedes’s coupé and roadster GTs, with an oversized transmission tunnel and low slung driving position.

Range Rover Sport Autobiography Dynamic £91,745: Priced at more than some Range Rover Vogues, the Sport Autobiography’s generous specification includes a 5.0 V8 petrol engine, reaching 60mph in 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. There’s also the small matter of seven seats, a huge boot, 4x4 transmission, go-anywhere Land Rover heritage, and a generous spec which includes adaptive cruise and heated & cooled seats. n

150

150

The interior also sports two 12.3” widescreen cockpit monitors, a new AMG performance steering wheel, with touch control buttons that recognise smartphone style gestures. With two rear seats that fold to increase luggage capacity and a 395 litre boot - more than a Ford Focus - there’s a

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“Potential buyers will need little more encouragement to choose the Mercedes than seeing it in the flesh. It’s a beautiful car...” helpful dose of practicality that belies the style and turns the Mercedes AMG-GT four door coupé into a sports car that’s also easy to live with on a day-to-day basis.

The Mercedes will be sold in three derivatives, a GT53 with 3.0V6 engine, and two 4.0 V8 models. All versions benefit from the firm’s 4Matic all wheel drive, nine speed automatic gearboxes and power output of between 435bhp and 639bhp. The flagship GT63S is also good for over 900bhp of torque.

That makes the car every bit a sporting GT

despite its genuine practicality. Configurable driving modes allow you to dial up or down the car’s drivetrain, whilst four wheel steering and a limited slip differential on the V8 models make the extra investment an exercise in bettering the car’s handling as well as its power.

The Mercedes it technically impressive, that’s for sure, but we’re betting most buyers will need little more encouragement to choose the car than seeing it in the flesh... it’s easily the most beautiful car we’ve seen for a long while! n

MERCEDES BENZ

AMG-GT 63S 4MATIC Price: £160,000 (est) from Sept. engine: 4.0 litre V8, twin turbo. drivetrain: Nine speed auto gearbox, all wheel drive and steer.

Performance: 0-60mph 3.2 seconds (est); 196mph top speed. economy: 31.6mpg combined. equipment: Comand sat nav and infotainment, Drive Pilot automation, nappa leather. n

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MOTORS

20 Years of Audi TT CELEBRATING TWO DECADES OF THE ICONIC TWO SEATER WITH AUDI...

AUDI Believe it or not, the Audi TT has been around for 20 years! To celebrate, the firm is giving the current version a mid-life refresh, and launching a special edition TT 20 Years model with a limited production run of just 999 cars.

Styling tweaks, several new paint colours and more powerful engines give the iconic coupé and roadster extra appeal, whilst heated

seats and folding mirrors on Sport and S-Line versions, and fully digital cockpit with new displays help to keep the car looking and feeling fresh.

The 20th anniversary model will feature moccasin leather with custom badges and two unique paint shades, and will go on sale from September with prices to be confirmed.

The current TT range is priced from £29,000 to £54,500. n

A Sound Business Choice MITSUBISHI’S OUTLANDER COMPELLING UNDER WLTP...

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Mulsanne W.O. Edition marks a milestone for Bentley...

BENTLEY Bentley has released a new very special limited edition of the Mulsanne, which pays homage to the founding father of the company.

Inside each of the 100 limited edition cars is a Mulliner illuminated cocktail cabinet.

Its marquetry depicts the geometric front matrix grille and headlight of founder W. O. Bentley’s 8 Litre car. A display window also shows off a piece of the crankshaft from the original vehicle in each of the new cars. n

MITSUBISHI The UK’s best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is even more compelling under strict new economy ratings.

The new WLTP ratings replace the old way of measuring fuel economy and CO2 emissions, to give a more accurate way of determining how economical your next car will be.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV recharges from a household socket and provides an electric-only range of 28 miles, overall fuel economy of 139mph and emits just 46g/km CO2, meaning ultra-low company car bills. The newly facelifted version, on sale from this month will cost from £33,000. n

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

ASTON MARTIN

BRITISH CAR MAKER ASTON MARTIN’S NEW UK FACTORY...

Aston Martin is in the process of creating a state-of-the-art factory in which to create its current and future models.

The facility at St Athen in South Wales will join the company’s Gaydon headquarters and Newport Pagnell sites as the home of the luxury brand in the UK, and will build Aston Martin’s forthcoming Lagonda saloon and the firm’s all-electric Range Rover and Bentley Bentaygarivalling SUV, estimated to appear in 2019.

The St Athen plant is a demonstration of Aston Martin’s continued commitment to the UK and is set to bring up to 750 new employment opportunities to the South Wales region. Of the total workforce, 150 employees have been recruited as part of the pre-production preparations.

Lagonda was founded in 1904 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown.

Under the leadership of Dr Andy Palmer and a new management team, the Group launched its Second Century Plan in 2015 to deliver sustainable long-term growth.

The plan is underpinned by the introduction of seven new models including the DB11, new Vantage, DBS Superleggera and an SUV, as well as the development of a new manufacturing centre in Wales. n

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Car detailing is an obsession and DSJ Automotive & Detailing was created from this obsession. A desire to produce something exceptional, down to the smallest detail, using only the very best materials.

As is the case with many of the early detailers, the profession is entered as a result of a personal drive for perfection on our own vehicles. From there, others approach us and we start down the path of professional car detailing.

Through our detailing design studio we strive to be the best car detailer in Stamford and the wider area, not only through the detailing itself but in the added value services we provide. These include a walk in shop selling the AngelWax products that we work with, affording you the opportunity to watch us work and ask for advice and guidance. Another service that has followed on as a result of being trusted with Clients vehicles, is the car storage facility that we operate. Every vehicle is looked after and more importantly secure and safe whilst at the same time being covered by our insurance policy.

From our discreet unbranded location, DSJ offers classic car storage facilities for short or long term durations. Requested by our clients, we offer a tailor made car storage solution, allowing them to store their classic cars in a secure and fully insured environment.

The car storage is monitored 24/7 by CCTV and checked upon regularly by the DSJ staff as they set about maintaining the vehicles based on the the owners car storage needs. Whether it is a simple place to store and cover the vehicle or the client requires the vehicle to be started and moved on a pre-agreed basis, the service we provide will leave you with peace of mind that your cherished vehicle is truly being looked after.

We hope that you to will commission your vehicle to be detailed by us and through the quality of our work, we look forward to holding onto you as a DSJ Client.

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MOTORS

A big cat... with extra roar!

Enzo Ferrari once described the E-Type Jaguar as ‘the most beautiful car in the world.’ at description is no less valid today. But the technology underlying the car has moved on.

Fortunately, you can now have both a beautiful looking car with modern mechanicals...

Updating the E-Type Jaguar. It’s quite a responsibility. Right up there with touching up the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel or doing a spot of weeding in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. But bless her, the old girl needs it.

Whilst still indisputably beautiful, the driving dynamics and sophistication of modern engines leave any 1960s car - even the sacred E-Type more compelling to look at than drive these days, especially on our crowded, crumbling and pot-holed roads.

Taking on the challenge in 2018 is E-Type UK, which has just released a lovingly upgraded version of the car with modern mechanicals.

And my goodness, their debut dance number was to replace the engine with a very much upgraded powerplant. No fewer than 6.1 litres of displacement, 12 cylinders and 78bhp more than the original car, plus a new exhaust system

means unprecedented power and 346bhp of big cat roar under your right foot.

Mercifully there are no dual-clutch automatic boxes or flappy paddle gear changes; just a clutch, a quaint old-fashioned gearstick and only five of the Queen’s English ratios.

‘Jaguar E-Type’

by E-Type UK Price: Undisclosed, £500,000 est.

Engine: 6.1 litre V12.

Equipment: 16” wire wheels, bespoke Jaguar XJS-sourced leather seats with heating, Bluetooth, remote central locking, air con.

Over 3,000 hours have gone into the restoration of the car – which began life as a Series 3 Coupé - and unlike other specialist coachbuilders such as Eagle the interior looks like an E-Type too, not just a reskinned modern Jaguar XK. ere are heated leather seats, modern air con, remote central locking, and a starter button. e car’s Bluetooth speaker enables drivers to connect a smartphone to provide digital radio or sat nav instruction, but its visual discretion helps to ensure the car looks like, feels like and goes like a new E-Type, not like a compromised original or a mere pastiche. n

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& Booted SUITED

For a simple overcoat, luxury investment or comfortable stylish footwear, our featured designers offer the very best in menswear over these next few pages...

Above: Camel wool Chesterfield overcoat £69 from Burton Menswear.

This simple overcoat is ideal for wearing over a suit and sits comfortably on the body.

Left: Dune London Pyramid shoes £110.

These warm tan coloured shoes fastened with golden buckles are simple yet stylish and will match a darker outfit and the camel overcoat featured above.

Top/Right: Dune London Papyrus £110. For more of a ‘suited and booted’ look, these smart laced shoes are elegant in their simplicity and will go well with a dinner jacket but also work well as a smart casual look as pictured here. Long lasting and durable shoes.

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Right: Ted Baker Dolston Cashmere blend coat, £429 www.tedbaker.com.

Ted Baker is the perfect designer brand to wear if you want a long lasting well fitted and of course, beautifully lined coat.

Make sure to get the matching pocket square to finish off your gentleman’s look.

Far Right: Grey wool Chesterfield overcoat £69.

Easy to wear with any outfit, from very smart to a casual day out. Its neutral tones and soft feel make it a worthy purchase.

Top/Far Right: Ted Baker Lush Herringbone wool overcoat £1,200, www.tedbaker.com.

A guaranteed luxury coat with fur lapels. This is a worthy investment and will last a lifetime.

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2

RED 11

10

This month we present the ideal Gentleman’s accessories from designer brands with a touch of burgundy...

9

8

WELL

1

1. Joules Bamburgh beanie hat, £14.95 (www.joules.com). 2. Breitling Navitimer in red gold £16,460 (www.breitling.com). 3. Barbour Wallet £54.95 (www.barbour.com). 4. Barbour Burghley boots in wine, £81.99 (www.barbour.com).

5. Reiss Jackson knitted tie, £65 (www.reiss.com). 6. Hugo Boss Cufflinks, £65 (www.hugoboss.com). 7. Hugo Boss Atgyle motif socks, £12 (www.hugoboss.com). 8. Mulberry Oxblood briefcase £695 (www.johnlewis.com). 9. Aspinal Pure cashmere scarf, £125 (www.aspinaloflondon.com). 10. Aspinal Burgundy umbrella, £175 (www.aspinaloflondon.com). 11. Pyjamas John Lewis, £38 (www.johnlewis.com).

3

4

Main. For designer bright

6 7

blazers, try Corneliani.

5

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GENTLEMEN

Country Derby Boot

Jarrow R Country Derby Boot in Chicago tan Chromexcel Leather, £375.

Alfred Capped Oxford Alfred Capped Oxford in Black Calf Leather, £350.

IF THE

Arthur III Brogue

Arthur III Brogue in Dark Leaf Calf Leather, £350.

SHOE FITS

Fenchurch Capped Oxford Fenchurch Capped Oxford in Black Calf Leather, £280.

Chelsea Boot

Godfrey D Chelsea Boot in Mocha Calf Leather, £375.

The finest handmade leather shoes and boots from luxury shoemaker Cheaney & Sons...

Loafer

Howard R Loafer in Mahogany Grain Leather, £350.

Wingcap Brogue Country Boot Tweed C Wingcap Brogue Country Boot in Almond Grain Leather, £375.

Threadneedle Chelsea Boot Threadneedle Chelsea Boot in Black Calf Leather, £299.

For local stockists or to shop online, call 01536 760383 or see www.cheaney.co.uk.

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