PRIDE STAMFORD
STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE
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nother month in (semi) lockdown and another beautiful magazine available to read online and on our new App.
As everyone continues to isolate and distance themselves from one another, you would think putting the magazine together would be a struggle, but there is so much to shout about in Rutland and Stamford that this month feels like any other month (perhaps with a few more trips to the fridge than usual). We’re shouting about the superb efforts of Stamford’s Andy Smith who has dedicated his life to helping people on the front line whether that’s at war or during a pandemic. We’re also shouting about some of the fascinating histories and features of this great area in our A-Z of Rutland and Stamford for your enjoyment. Also for your enjoyment, we have a fascinating interview with Bunny Guinness, Chelsea Flower Show champion and landscape architect, who dispenses her tips and tricks of budding gardeners. If you’re a little more experienced in the garden, you may be looking to ‘Dig for Victory’ and plant your very own vegetable patch. We have the how-tos later on in this magazine as well from experts in the field. You may prefer indoor activities - if this is the case, we have a fabulous homes section this month filled with inspiration from a grand home on the market in Billesdon to a glorious French Chateau managed by a Stamford family. Best wishes and good health,
Julian Wilkinson, Managing Director, Pride Magazines Ltd.
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NEWS & EVENTS
Supporting ‘For the love of Scrubs’ SCHOOL STEPS IN TO WASH DONATED FABRIC TO BE MADE INTO SCRUBS OAKHAM SCHOOL Are proud to be supporting the local ‘For the Love of Scrubs’ team who are producing PPE for the NHS. The School’s industrial washing machines are now ‘on’ with the important task of cleaning all the donated fabric prior to it being made up into scrubs.
“Originally we were just asked for materials from Gill Hayes, who is co-ordinating the local ‘For the Love of Scrubs’ appeal,” says Estates Manager, Patrick Trower. “But we realised that we could do more than just provide fabric; including taking on all the laundering they need. Our industrial machines have sped up this process considerably; enabling a quicker turnaround and allowing those who can sew to spend more time making the scrubs rather than washing and ironing.” As well as raiding the School’s own supply of fabric, from the
Textiles department to that of their resident Seamstress, all staff members have been asked to donate any fabric along with the accruements needed to make the Scrubs. There’s now a safe drop-off point for the fabric, which is then laundered and delivered to the team of volunteers who then make it into scrubs. “It’s wonderful, at this time, to offer practical support,” concludes Patrick who is co-ordinating the School’s support. “We are just one small part of the ‘For the Love of Scrubs’ team, but we’re proud to help our local NHS workers to stay safe at this time. It’s also fantastic that the ‘For the Love of Scrubs’ sewing team have made Oakham School a supply of re-usable face masks and laundry bags for volunteers who are making face visors. The community is coming together.”
Capturing National Hero
ANDREA NAYLOR PAINTS CAPTAIN TOM MOORE IN PASTELS FOR ALL TO SEE ...
COTTESMORE Local artist Andrea Naylor, has created this wonderful painting of our National Hero Captain Tom Moore.
Lockdown has unfortunately meant that she cannot hold her usual workshops, lessons or demonstrations so she wanted to channel her artistic energy into creating her latest portrait of ‘Our NHS Hero’ Captain Tom Moore, who raised over £32,000,000 for the NHS by walking laps of his garden. Andrea will be donating it to her local GP practice, 6
Empingham Medical Centre, where people can be reminded of his amazing contribution to the NHS. Andrea was also involved in the Tom Croft project, offering a free portrait to the first Frontline NHS worker that contacted her. This was won by Clare Haines who works on the Medical Ward at Stamford Hospital. It was Andrea’s way of saying thank you to the NHS. ! If you would like to make a donation to the NHS go to www.nhscharitiestogether. justgiving.com.
Local wedding photographer Lizzie Adams found herself with no work with weddings being cancelled due to Covid-19, so she decided to spend time photographing portraits of her neighbours instead. OAKHAM
She has been combining her daily exercise with ‘lockdown photo-shoots!’ Her five-yearold daughter Elsie has been helping by shouting out directions to the ‘models.’
OAKHAM Gates Farm Shop near Oakham is offering customers a personal Call and Collect service during the Coronavirus lockdown. When customers call to place an order, one of the friendly team of personal shoppers then call them back to ‘walk’ them through the store, shopping as they go. After paying by phone, customers arrange to collect at a time convenient to them and,
on arrival, staff will pop the shopping directly into the boot, meaning they don’t even have to get out of the car! As the service is entirely contactless, it is the safest way to shop. Owner Nigel Gates says, “Over the years our customers have been good to us and we want to give something back.” ! Call 01664 454309 or visit www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.
Creating & Sharing Resources RESILIENT RUTLAND HAVE BEEN CREATING RESOURCES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES...
Lizzie is trying to ensure the portraits capture households in Oakham as people cope with being stuck at home in these unprecedented times. “It was really wonderful to speak to everybody and they said it was so nice to see a different face,” Lizzie says. “I think the value of making connections at the moment is really important.” All of Lizzie’s images are taken in return for donations to Rutland Foodbank.
RUTLAND Living in strange times and the uncertainty is having an impact on us all at the moment. Resilient Rutland have worked hard on their website to provide trusted information on where to get help and advice. Adding specific Covid-19 information for young people which has been created by the charity YoungMinds. Having worked collaboratively with Brooke Hill Academy’s ELSA Paula Reeves to develop and share activities to try at home. ‘Resilient Moves’ can be used by parents. Ideas for a wellbeing walk and breathing activities are just a snapshot of what is available. ! www.resilientrutland.co.uk
STAMFORD LIBRARY has seen a huge increase in the use of online services. This has meant more people have enjoyed popular books, newspapers and magazines, thanks to the Council’s library services team during lockdown. They are adding new content all the time including books for children for e-learning at home.
FREE CONTACTLESS CALL & COLLECT...
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Personal Shopper
Photographing the neighbours during lockdown
LOCAL
NEWS In Brief RUTLAND
LOCAL DAIRY FARMERS
Welcomed the Government’s new hardship funding to bolster them through COVID-19. Dairy farmers produce over 49 million litres of milk every day but have seen decreased demand as bars, cafes and restaurants have had to close. The new hardship fund will provide support for the most in need farmers. Eligible dairy farmers who have lost more than 25% of their income over April and May will be able to access this funding of up to £10,000 each for those qualifying months. The UK dairy sector and the Government have launched a new £1m campaign to increase the consumption of milk too. 7
L O O K I N G TO J O I N A
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Bespoke Property. Bespoke Advice. ER R D E UN FF
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A superbly appointed detached house with versatile accommodation and attractive gardens, set in a popular village, conveniently located for Oundle, Stamford and Corby.
Four bedroom attached barn conversion, situated down a quiet lane in the popular conservation village of Tinwell.
• Built in 1999 but significantly improved • Close to Oundle and Stamford • Good access to towns and cities with train links into London • Stone built home set centrally within its grounds • Spacious sitting room with French doors
• Popular village location next to Stamford • Kitchen with large utility and boot room • Dining room, sitting room and garden room • Entrance hall with WC and cloaks cupboard • Three double bedrooms and family bathroom • Principal bedroom with ensuite shower room
• Breakfast kitchen, separate dining room & utility • Principal bedroom with ensuite shower room • Guest bedroom with ensuite shower room • Two further dbl bedrooms with family bathroom • Double garage and further off-road parking • Beautiful landscaped garden with dining terraces
TINWELL – GUIDE PRICE £750,000
DEENETHORPE – GUIDE PRICE £585,000
ER R D E UN FF
• Beautiful garden with views over grazing land and church • Garage with access into the rear garden • Communal grounds to the front, including a duck pond • Potential for modernisation
ER R D E UN FF
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Attractive 5 bedroom detached house with stylish interiors, south facing garden and A substantial detached residence set in the heart of a popular village with swimming pool double garage set in an enviable village location within easy reach of transport links. and grounds of approximately two acres. • Large breakfast kitchen and separate utility room • South facing Orangery with access to garden terrace • Sitting room with wood burning stove • Second sitting room/playroo /separate wine room/office • Master bedroom suite with dressing area and en suite bathroom
• Vaulted guest bedroom suite • Three further bedrooms with family bathroom • Landscaped gardens, dbl garage & off-street parking • Edge of village location, extensive countryside views • Modern stone property recently refurbished throughout
NASSINGTON – GUIDE PRICE £795,000
• Over 5,000 sq/ft of internal accommodation • Gated driveway leading into a dble open garage • Breakfast kitchen, drawing room & garden room • Separate dining room, study & utility/boot room • Principal bedroom suite, dressing room & en suite
• Guest bedroom with own staircase & en suite • Three further double bedrooms & cinema room • Family bathroom and separate shower room • Swimming pool with terrace and changing room • Grass tennis court, paddock and alfresco dining with bar/BBQ
GLATTON – GUIDE PRICE £1,550,000
NEW
LANGHAM
NEW
£1,150,000
A superb, substantial, individual family residence set on a private plot of approx. 0.5 A on the edge of a highly regarded village enjoying countryside views. The property was constructed using many reclaimed quality materials and offers spacious, exible accommodation full of character. 2 Rec. Rooms, farmhouse Kitchen/Diner, ample Ancillary Accommodation, 5 Dbl Bedrooms, 5 en-suite Bath/Shower Rooms; Outbuildings, Garaging. Energy Rating: TBC.
SOMERBY
£875,000
Stunning individual house providing high-standard, substantial, exible character accommodation (including Annex) with south-facing garden, extensive garaging and car port in a picturesque village location with far-reaching rural views. 3 Rec. Rooms, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Wine Cellar, Clrkm, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bath/Shower Rooms. Energy Rating: D.
NEW
SOUTH LUFFENHAM
£575,000
Character Barn Conversion set in a popular village and enjoying stunning countryside views. The spacious accommodation features a full two storey height lounge with exposed roof timbers, stone Inglenook-style fireplace and partially vaulted ceilings. 2 Rec. Rooms, Brkfst Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower Rooms; dbl Garage, Gardens. Energy Rating: E.
SOMERBY
£420,000
Delightful period 3-storey property dating back to 1818 and offering substantial accommodation with incredible character and a host of original features set in a sought-after, picturesque village. 4 Reception Rooms, Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm, 5 Dbl Bedrooms, Bathroom; single Garage, private cottage Garden. Energy Rating: G.
NEW
Cottesmore
£395,000
Delightful new-built, detached stone cottage under thatched roof appointed to an exceptional standard and occupying an attractive plot enjoying views over open countryside to the front and village church to the rear. Sitting Room, Dining Kitchen, Utility, Clkrm/WC, 3 Bedrooms, En-suite Wet Room, Family Bathroom; 2 Parking Spaces, south-facing rear Garden. Energy Rating: B.
NORTH LUFFENHAM
£325,000
Beautiful Victorian townhouse providing elegant, stylishly appointed accommodation arranged over three oors and retaining many original features. Open-plan Sitting Room and Dining Area, Breakfast Kitchen, Clkrm/Utility, 5 Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, separate small Shower Room; walled, hard-landscaped rear Garden with summerhouse. Energy Rating: F.
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PROPERTY FINDERS
AGENTS OF CHANGE Kate Vincent, local property expert and buying agent explains what moving home is now likely to involve and shares some early trends being seen in the market The government’s shock announcement on 12th May that the English property market had been released from lockdown created a quiver of excitement amongst those frozen mid-purchase and frustrated new buyers. Whilst a number of estate agents had continued to work remotely during lockdown, inevitably most buyers had to wait patiently for the market to re-activate before being able to progress moving plans. New beginnings The government suggests that approximately half a million buyers were stalled mid-process and based on the flurry of activity already seen in the market, many of these movers have been on the phone to their agent and advisors immediately to push through a purchase before a possible second wave threatens to suspend activity. At Garrington, we have a number of retained clients whose searches were paused in the early stages and many of these have now instructed us to proceed with haste. Whether this sample of the buying public is typical of a wider trend is not yet clear, but one thing for sure is, that anyone moving will be cautious of this new norm and fearful of getting it wrong. Education, education, education In light of the understandable air of caution surrounding our industry, new ways of transacting are already emerging requiring an education process for all parties involved in the move. Selling properties off-market has always appealed to a relatively few high-end property sellers, but there are already signs that this type of selling is to become more popular across the entire market. This method of sale
reassures homeowners that their home is only going to be offered to fully proceedable buyers whose buying criteria closely matches the property on offer. This will reduce the number of viewings and limit the number of strangers entering their home. Homeowners looking to sell their property are also likely to reduce the number of agents visiting their homes for valuation. Gone are the days it would seem when three plus estate agents are invited round for tea and a tour. This is already being replaced by a virtual interview using Zoom and the likes, followed by more controlled rollout of essential visits by one agent to prepare the property for market. A handful of agents have experimented with virtual viewings/videos in recent times and these are likely to become more commonplace based on guidance from government. However, when using these techniques to assess a property, buyers should be mindful that like the glossy photos used extensively, an agent’s material is there to sell and promote the most attractive aspects of a home. Agents’ videos will never show the less desirable aspect of a property such as next door’s yappy dog or other possible blights surrounding a home. Virtual becomes reality In the same way that the car industry has evolved in recent years most buyers now enter the showroom with an in-depth knowledge of their products gleamed from extensive online research and YouTube videos, property buyers will become similarly more informed before they even contact estate agents, having carried out virtual tours
Kate Vincent Garrington
and research online. However, whilst buying from the safety of your own home, may sound eminently attractive, in a rapidly changing market the need for trusted advice and a real-world perspective has never been more important. How we can help Having a local expert representing you as the buyer in these uncertain times can provide invaluable reassurance and value. Local knowledge of how Stamford property prices will differ from those to say in Oakham will be ever more important in these turbulent times. Different property types and locations will respond differently to the global changes that have taken place. At Garrington, we offer clients trusted and well substantiated advice as well as real-world ‘warts and all’ videos of viewings taken place on behalf of our clients, removing the need for them to visit property in person until they know it really offers what they are seeking. In this uncertain and somewhat scary world, we offer support and reassurance to make buying property a safe and well considered purchasing experience. Garrington work on behalf of private clients who want to buy, rent or invest in property throughout the UK. They also provide a negotiation only and overseeing of sales service. If you are thinking of moving this year and would like further information on how Garrington can assist, contact Kate Vincent: Tel: 01780 408377 Email: info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk
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The Interview:
BUNNY GUINNESS Until you see the work of a professional landscape architect like Bunny Guinness, you can feel content with your own handiwork! Her gardens are works of art, a skill that she has mastered over a 50 year career. Bunny can be seen across the BBC’s garden shows and has taken a handful of golds home from the Chelsea Flower Show... Photo: Bunny Guinness, courtesy of Horatio's Garden Oswestry.
IF YOU’RE INTO GARDENING then Bunny Guinness is someone you will know and love. She is an award-winning landscape architect and runs a busy landscaping business with her daughter Unity. As well as designing and implementing gardens, Bunny’s an author of several books, writes a regular column in The Sunday Telegraph and she’s one of the knowledgeable voices of Radio 4’s Gardener’s Question Time. With nearly 50 years of experience in the gardening world, Bunny is the person to answer all your horticultural queries. Have you always had an interest or been involved in horticulture?
“My uncle is the late David Austin and my mum owned a large nursery which she worked on until her 90s, so I have always been surrounded by horticulture,” says Bunny. “Growing up in this environment, I was often given endless boring gardening jobs which I loathed for peanuts! I decided I wanted to move away from the horticultural world so I chose to study food science at Reading University.” What made you get back into it?
“Whilst at university, I met someone who was studying horticulture and it sounded
much better than my degree. I realised that I didn’t want to be stuck in a lab every day and I wanted to be outside. I swapped to studying soil science and the land.” “After completing my horticultural degree, I did a postgraduate course in landscape architecture. I spent seven years in total studying and working for various landscape architects which gave me experience as well as knowledge.” When you were first starting out were there any landscape designers you admired?
“Yes, lots! To name a few, I loved the work of Russel Page, John Hodgson, Capability Brown and John Brookes. I think John Brookes was a very influential designer and the first to make garden design something that was innovative and modern.” “Before John, gardens followed the ‘washing machine design’ - when your clothes are in the washing machine, they go to the outside of the drum leaving space in the middle. 70s gardens had plants glued to the outside of the fences with lawn in the middle.” “John’s designs totally rethought the outdoor space, using curves and structures. This was a big change for the way we used gardens. Also, my uncle would get me tickets for the Chelsea Flower Show and the gardens there are particularly inspiring.”
THE INTERVIEW
Was it difficult being a woman in a predominantly male industry?
“I think gender does have some influence on the gardening world which is a shame. Whilst studying for my post grad diploma, there were 3 females on the course and 17 men. There are more female landscape architects emerging, but it’s still predominantly male. When I was on the judging panel, I was often one of the only women.” After graduating, Bunny worked in the private sector for several years and started her own firm in 1986. Having worked in landscape design for nearly 50 years, Bunny has plenty of experience including working on reclamation sites, renovation of inner city housing estates, planning appeals, sheltered housing schemes, pedestrian precincts, golf courses, farm and estate planting, public roof gardens and many different private gardens. Bunny has designed a total of nine show gardens, winning six golds at the Chelsea Flower Show. Out of all your show gardens which was your favourite and why?
“You can make a really ugly house look stunning by the way you treat the garden. Just a series of plants in pots, creating a line of green foliage at eye level, won’t block anything but is enough to deflect your eye from any awful architecture.” Who are your clients?
“Anyone can be my client. I work with everyone from premier league footballers to small suburban house owners. I haved landscaped small gardens in the UK to 30 huge garden projects in Japan.” “Many of my clients are returning customers - I have done three generations of gardens for one family. They all wanted something very different for very different houses, but it is helpful when your clients know the sort of thing you do, what you can do, and they have the confidence in you.”
“My favourite Chelsea Flower Show garden was the 2011 M&G garden. I only received silver but I think it was better than the gardens I received gold for!”
“My personal favourite is the M&G Garden in 2011. I received a silver guild for the garden, but I think it was the best I have created. It was very technically challenging as it featured a large, floating glass platform. Underneath the space was an area with a glass roof, a huge fireplace and sunken seating areas. Above the glass roof you could climb up the stone staircase and view the whole garden. It was definitely the most stressful garden I have completed!”
Why do you think it is important to have a well-presented garden?
“Many people have something in their house which might not be perfect like the kitchen’s too small, or the hallway is too narrow. There is usually something all householders would change if they can but a garden, if designed cleverly, can be exactly what you want.” “You can make the outdoor space your sanctuary, hide all the things you want to hide and even design an enjoyable ‘room in the garden like an outside sitting room or garden kitchen.” “Designing a garden is different to designing something inside like a kitchen. When designing a kitchen, you are restricted by some elements or can only have so many choices, but when designing a garden, your choices are limitless.”
How often do people change their gardens?
“The gardens I design are created to be that person’s sanctuary so they do not change as much as you might change your kitchen or bathroom.” “However, they do move on; only yesterday I received an email from a client whose garden I designed 30 years ago. Their outside furniture is now wearing a little and asked what I would suggest. I enjoy seeing how the gardens I designed 25 years ago have transformed.”
Are there any frequently asked for garden trends?
“As all my clients are different, I do not think there is a commonly asked for design. Every space is very different, and I work all over the UK and the world, so my work is vary vast.” “Clients do not usually ask for the same thing, but they will often show me examples of what I have done and say I like this and then we will change it to suit them and their needs.” “Being self-sufficient is popular, especially with the lockdown, so I have been asked to input kitchen gardens for my clients to give them the space to grow their own herbs, fruits and vegetables.” Are there any new trends that you are wanting to try?
“I am always playing with design, experimenting and developing new ideas. I am currently creating a green cathedral out of plants and
Opposite: Two beautiful examples of Bunny’s work. The above photo is a professional large scale garden whilst the below is a private plot Bunny has designed.
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“If I had to choose just one thing for my garden, it would be quince trees. They are lovely - I have four in the courtyard outside my office and they’re fantastic all year round!” Below: Bunny has had to design all sorts of gardens from enormous plots (below is Thyme - thyme.co.uk) to small city retreats, working with such a range of sizes and styles.
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metal work. I always like to move on and use different, unique designs. I experiment at home first and then build prototypes.” “I like to move on all the time and my daughter who I work alongside with has a background in design and is very good at keeping up to date with trends and what is going on all over the world which is quite interesting.” If you could only have one thing in your garden, what would it be?
“That would change for every week of the year! If I had to choose just one thing, it would be quince trees like Cydonia Oblingas. They are lovely trees. I have four in the courtyard outside my office and they are fantastic all through the year.”
Could you give our readers some top tips for summer gardening?
“When potting plants in containers I suggest cutting the bottom out of the containers to make them bottomless. I do this a lot, because it raises the plants, giving them a frame and making them more important.” “They’re better for frost resistance as water doesn’t pool in the base and freeze. Even if they are in a paved area, the paving comes out underneath the pot so they will root through meaning you do not have to water them after the first year.” “They will grow much bigger, be healthier and you can design the containers to match the house. Paint them the same colours at the doors or use terracotta or steel.”
“Secondly, I am always in favour of creating bespoke outside furniture. If you are wanting to add a bench or table to your garden, try designing it yourself and take your design to a joiner or metal worker.” “There are lots of amazing suppliers you can use, and it will often be a fraction of the cost of a mass-produced item. It may take longer to create but it will be worth it when you have your own design in your garden that you will never see anywhere else.” “Upcycling is also an easy way to renovate your garden. I recently updated a green oak table I created over 20 years ago. The top was rotting so I used acid etched galvanized sheet metal and put studs around the edge and just popped it on top. It looked fabulous and we had a new, individual table.”
Throughout your career you have published several books. Which have you found most valuable?
“I think the whole business of health in the garden is very interesting and I learnt lots from the book I wrote with physiotherapist Jacqueline Knox - Garden Your Way to Health and Fitness.” “The idea for the book started over coffee and Jackie explained that she has a peak in clients in the spring usually after someone has been out in their garden and twisted or sprained a muscle.” “Gardening is an all-round health booster, it is emotionally rewarding, getting outside, drawing on those sun rays and all those hours spent weeding, raking, digging, and
planting serve to increase stamina, build muscle tone, and burn calories. However, you can injure yourself if you bend or lift something wrong, so our book explains how to garden whilst avoiding stresses and strains.” “I no longer have any problems with my back when gardening and the book really helped. It also dips into how to physically and mentally look after yourself in the garden with exercise ideas and hints and tips on how to create a beautifully designed garden.” “Another of my favourites is the collaboration with his Royal Highness, The Prince Of Wales - Highgarden: A Garden Celebrated.” “This was a true privilege to write and it was extremely fascinating as I had the opportunity to study Highgrove and how the garden has
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Images: Above is Bunny and her daughter and work partner Unity. Other images on the page are all examples of private gardens and professional gardens Bunny has designed and created. Each is unique and creative and beautiful in its own way.
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“Prince Charles was going to plant leyland cypress hedges for privacy. Luckily, Lady Soulsby directed him to a yew hedge instead, and he now has world class examples!” transformed over 30 years. I was able to wander through each part of this astounding garden through the different seasons, whilst Prince Charles described the thinking behind each garden, his mistakes and the triumphs and his plans for the future. The garden is always moving on.” What was your favourite part of Highgrove?
“I thought his topiary hedges were fabulous and they also had a fantastic story behind them. Prince Charles bought Highgrove at a time when the press was crazy! A camera lens was always watching his private life and he wanted to put up a fence around his garden to protect his privacy.” “As he wanted this fence to go up quickly, he was going to use leyland cypress hedges. However, any gardener will tell you that leyland cypress hedges are a disaster! They grow wider and wider, blocking all the light, they are impossible to contain, and you can’t chop them back as you are just chopping into dead wood that never regrows.” “At the time Prince Charles didn’t know any of this as he was new to gardening but Lady Soulsby managed to persuade his Royal Highness to go for a yew hedge instead and explained if the hedge was looked after, it would still grow quickly. Later on, the yew hedges were topiarised and they are now beautiful designed with scallops, balls and birds flying over them all in topiary!” “They are phenomenal and inspirational. It’s ironic that the Prince started off wanting the most awful hedge in the world and he has ended up with world class examples of yew hedges.” ! If you enjoyed reading this article and would like to find out more or glean more handy tips and advice from Bunny, feel free to subscribe to her Youtube channel where she dispenses regular tips and tricks or follow her on Instagram or Twitter at BunnyGuinness1. Her contact details are available on her website www.bunnyguinness.com. 25
Kneeler
This Sophie Conran kneeler offers superb comfort for knees, even on gravel. It’s a product you don’t realise you needed so badly, £19.99.
Harvesting Basket
This attractive handcrafted wire basket is perfect for harvesting from the kitchen garden or greenhouse. It’s also ideal for eggs, £16.99.
Bird Food Tin
A galvanized pest proof tin to store your bird food with handy scoop - it fits neatly under your arm and stops spillages and mess, £19.99.
GARDEN GEAR
to get you going
Garden’s Gubbins Pots
These gorgeous tins bring a pleasing order to all your bits and bobs and save hours of hunting and unravelling, £9.99.
Compost Scoop
The compost scoop enables you to shovel just the right amount of compost into your pots without the ensuing mess, £19.99.
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If you’re inspired by Bunny Guinness and her wonderful work, here are some fantastic tools to get you going with your own garden projects. They are all of the highest calibre, and will ensure you have all the gear (and hopefully some idea) to ensure you’re on your way to being a top gardener... Products: Sophie Conran and Burgon & Ball.
Everyday Gardening Gloves
These stylish soft gloves are perfect for keeping by the back door to slip on when you pop out for a spot of gardening, £17.49.
Tool Bag
This stylish tool bag is the perfect size for gardening; not too heavy and bulky to carry as you garden, even when fully loaded, £24.99.
Herb Garden Seed Set
Grow fragrant herbs and leaves to bring your cooking alive with fresh flavour, including basil, rocket, thyme and coriander, £10.99.
Truly Independent Financial Planning • Efficient Portfolio’s Charlie Reading • Author of The Dream Retirement
Creating a Legacy by Minimising Tax Why do we want to build wealth? Is it so we can buy plush homes, drive fast, sleek cars or sun ourselves in exotic climes? Or is actually for a far more personal reason?
F
OR SOME PEOPLE, filling our lives with luxury is a key motivation to make money; however, most of us also want to help those who we love by leaving behind a legacy that will give them the best start in life, or enable them to continue to live out their lives with confidence and certainty.
it is important that any plans you make are lawful, accurate and fair. Achieving the balance between what you want to do and what you have to do is a little bit of a minefield, so we have created a lunchtime talk to demonstrate what your obligations are, and what options are available to you. Our event will explain key areas and show you how you could: ! Avoid hefty Inheritance Tax Charges. ! Ensure that your house and capital are protected against third-party risks. ! Take measures to prevent your assets disappearing if a divorce in the family were to happen.
But is just making money enough to guarantee this? Inheritance Tax is currently set at 40%, meaning that, if your estate exceeds the threshold (currently £325,000 for a single person and £650,000 for a married couple) you could end up giving away nearly half of your wealth to the Government. I’m sure that you don’t want them to become the single largest beneficiary of your hard-earned money! That’s why protecting your wealth in later life is becoming more and more poignant. Historically, Inheritance Tax has been the preserve of the super-wealthy, but this is changing. The ever-evolving world of tax, especially Inheritance Tax, is not just targeting the very rich; in fact, it is beginning to hit the average family too. Last year alone, we saw HMRC collect £5.1 billion in Inheritance Tax - a rise of 9% from 2016 . And with the conventional Nil-Rate Band is fixed at £325,000 until April 2021, this trend looks set to continue. But what can you do? Careful planning around your finances is one of the key steps to take now in order to protect your wealth for the benefit of your loved ones. A former Chancellor once said, that “Inheritance Tax is paid only by those who distrust their family more than they dislike the Inland Revenue.” But was he right? To use a palatable analogy, this planning is very much like
Understanding these areas could be the difference between you leaving your family ‘a life changing sum’ and a ‘life changing lesson’.
Tax, is not “ Inheritance just targeting the very rich; in fact, it is beginning to hit the average family too...
”
! The event will take place on Wednesday 16th September at 1200 at Portfolian House, 30 Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AY. To book your complimentary place, please contact us on hello@efficientportfolio.co.uk or 01572 898060.
baking a cake. First, you need to identify what could ‘spoil the mix’- in this case Inheritance Tax. Next, you need to choose the best ‘ingredients’ to minimise the amount of tax you pay and ensure that your loved ones will receive the most they can. Only then can you ensure that you are in the best position to financially feed your own future as well as that of your loved ones; so, you can have your cake and eat it! Any planning around tax can be confusing, time-consuming and controversial! In the UK, we all have to pay tax in some form, so Charlie Reading created Efficient Portfolio to offer entirely independent financial advice and helping people clarify and realise their dreams and goals through financial planning.
Call 01572 898060, see www.efficientportfolio.co.uk or visit Portfolian House, 30 Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AY
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EXPERT CARE FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY Antenatal preparation classes for groups and couples. Hypnobirthing tuition. Postnatal support in the home.
Maternity Nursing. Baby Massage. Breast-feeding support. ‘Surrogate Granny’ Service.
Everyday Hero If there is any positivity to come from the current situation, it’s that we’re recognising the true superheroes of society, wearing scrubs, overalls and uniform rather than capes. Our everyday hero is Stamford’s Andy Smith...
MY OCCUPATION
>> POSITIVITY ISN’T EXACTLY IN AMPLE SUPPLY right now. Each day is now measured in death counts and new cases, and family and friends are sorely missed. Frustration is in the air with the constant debate of ‘to be released or not to be released’ on loop.
Andy forms part of the Magpas Air Ambulance medical team, comprising a specialist doctor and critical care paramedic. Andy works at least one clinical shift per week and is also the Clinical Operations Manager for the air ambulance group.
But that’s not despite Britain’s best efforts. Heartwarming stories are rising from the ashes from the fabulous Captain Tom Moore to the weekly clap for our carers. We’re starting to recognise the true superheroes of society and they don’t wear capes. You’ll see them in scrubs, overalls and uniform, putting their lives on the line to save others, and not just during a pandemic.
“Every day is different, and you are at the forefront of medicine. In my clinical role, I work with the doctor, pilot and crew. We respond to emergencies, practice skills, check the ambulance kit and go through any aviation briefs.”
Andy Smith from Stamford is one of our local heroes. Not only does Andy work full time, saving lives with Magpas Air Ambulance, he was also the founder of the Support our Stamford support group, formed with the help of paramedic David Stafford and teacher Vickie Bracken to help the people of Stamford during the outbreak of Coronavirus. Andy has always been passionate about helping people. His career began working for the Royal Air Force as a paramedic on the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT). Andy has served our country in Afghanistan on MERT five times, and served in Bosnia and both Gulf Wars. “I have always wanted to be on the front line, treating and evacuating those most in need of help on the battlefield. I worked in a variety of helicopters as a paramedic during my service.”
“When in the management role, I look after day-to-day operations, development of Standard Operating Procedures for staff, order medicine, fuel, anything needed for the air ambulance and clinical equipment in the response bags. I also chair Operational Management meetings and sit on the Clinical Governance Committee.”
“I have always wanted to be a paramedic on the front line, treating and evacuating those most in need of help on the battlefield...”
After three years in the United Kingdom Special Forces Medical Group, Andy became the inaugural Defence Specialist Advisor for paramedics. This involved managing all Her Majesty’s Forces paramedics and advising the Surgeon General on policies, strategic decisions and writing lots of development papers. Andy was first introduced to Magpas Air Ambulance by two of the charity’s medics he knew through the military. After completing Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine training with Magpas in 2013, Andy started volunteering as a Critical Care Paramedic. In May 2019, after a 34 year career in the Royal Air Force, an opening arose for Andy to work with the Magpas Air Ambulance full time. “I love my job and what I do,” says Andy. It is really hard to get an opportunity to work full time with the air ambulance so when the opportunity came up, I jumped at it.” Magpas Air Ambulance provides urgent lifesaving care by land and air, 24/7, across the community. Based in Huntingdon, Magpas covers Lincolnshire, Stamford, Rutland, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, caring for a population of over 10 million. 30
“The governance within Magpas is fantastic; there are lots of checks and rules to comply by to ensure the service is superb.”
As Magpas Air Ambulance receives no state funding, they are entirely dependent on donations. Andy and his team liaise with other companies and spend much time fundraising. As well as this, the team have visits from expatients, teach first aid and teach free CPR to children and adults as part of the hearts matter community. “I’m very busy, but I really enjoy what I do; doing this job is my way of doing something for other people and giving back to those who need it most.”
“For me, Magpas Air Ambulance’s greatest strength is the continuous education and training for staff. We’re always making sure our patients come first and receive the highest standard of care, but we couldn’t make such a difference without the public’s continued support, and for that I am thankful.” Prior to the pandemic, the service typically received between four to five jobs a day treating around 1,200 patients in life-threatening emergencies each year. The air ambulance’s primary role is in trauma incidents like car or motorcycle accidents. There have been less people on the roads which fortunately has meant a lot less accidents. The most common call out currently is providing advanced A&E level care for cardiac arrests and the medical team has also been on the Coronavirus frontline, transporting patients from intensive care units to other hospitals. Andy explained that it can involve up to six hours in full PPE in very hot conditions usually. Andy has always had a passion for helping those in need which is one of the many reasons he started the group Support Our Stamford with help from East of England Leading Operations
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MY OCCUPATION
Manager paramedic and Lives volunteer David Strafford and secondary school teacher, Vickie Bracken. Support our Stamford is a group that was dedicated to helping the people of Stamford but has now evolved, helping more and more people in the outlying villages. The group started with Andy writing a post on Facebook offering his help to any vulnerable people in Stamford. His post received a great response with lots of other people also volunteering their help. Vickie and David both messaged Andy directly to help and decided a group should be formed to coordinate these volunteers and the people who needed support; thus Support our Stamford was born. The three had never met before but they realised they were like minded, and by coincidence, all had military backgrounds; Andy served in the RAF for 34 years, David is an Army veteran (Regimental Sergeant Major) of 22 years and Vickie is an Army Reserve Officer. The group has over 300 volunteers and in the first month completed 301 requests. They have now broken the 1,000 mark having completed a total of 1,100 requests. Everybody works in their own zone with each zone having their own coordinators and a Whatsapp group. The group works through micro networks allowing volunteers to help those in their immediate neighbourhood; the people right on their doorsteps. The volunteers help the people of Stamford by collecting shopping for the vulnerable, delivering medicines, walking dogs for those in isolation and offering friendly telephone calls to those who are lonely in isolation.
The group is now self-established and has daily requests coming in. The group has even expanded further than Stamford with the volunteers helping people out of the town. Vickie personally does the shopping once a week for 10 elderly residents and as a school teacher, she has connected her two worlds. “I go into school once a week to teach the students of key workers. When I go into school, the children ask me what I have been doing with my time so I told them about the support group.” “I think it is important to teach children to help others and they came up with the idea to write cards to the group of residents I was shopping for which was really special.” “One of my favourite parts about helping these people is that I’m connecting with people I never normally would, and each person their own unique story. I have spoken to a 97 year old Normandy war veteran, a WWII evacuee and a lady who was part of the Royal Ballet School. There are so many interesting people in Stamford, right on our doorstep.”
“Support our Stamford has over 300 volunteers putting their lives on the line to help the most vulnerable members of Stamford’s community...”
“We do not have a criteria for who we help,” says Vickie. “Income and background are irrelevant, and we will do our best to support anybody who needs it during this unprecedented time.” The group had a shared vision that everything would be free, and they would help the most vulnerable. The biggest challenge for the group has been making sure they had their name out there before the lockdown. Many of the elderly and most vulnerable do not have the internet, so the group printed over 7,000 leaflets and distributed them within three days. “Time was of the essence,” explains David. “We all knew that we would have to go into lockdown soon, and we wanted to make sure the most vulnerable in our town knew about the group to ensure they could reach out if they needed any help or support.” “I remember finishing handing out leaflets at 10pm one night and then getting up at 4am the next morning to go to work! It’s certainly been a challenge but these people need support.”
“The children now have their own individual pen pals and I will be picking up the children’s replies on my next shopping trip.” It is so heartwarming to hear that despite all the negativity, Stamford’s community still thrives thanks to this incredible group. If anything good was to come out of this awful outbreak, it’s that it has brought us closer together - despite being separated by social distancing - and we’re recognising the importance of helping others.
“Without the volunteers the group would not be possible. It is their kindness and good spirit that has made this group a success. We have also had amazing support and donations from local businesses. We even have had a mystery donor who donated thousands of pounds in food hampers.” “Everyone can help someone and it really pulls on my heartstrings to think about our volunteers, possibly putting themselves in harms way, to queue at the supermarket and do the shopping for someone they do not know,” says David. The three have discussed the outcome of the group after all this. Firstly, celebrations are in order! After that, the three would like the group to continue in some form, and the community network the group has created to remain. It connects the old with the young, helping those most in need and educating others to help vulnerable members of society. We hope the efforts of David, Vickie and Andy and all of the volunteers - the everyday superheroes in our modern society - is recognised, continued and we thank them very much.
! If you need help from Support our Stamford or know someone who does, visit www.supportourstamford.weebly.com or email sosStamford2020@hotmail.com. 32
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AN A TO Z OF
Rutland & Stamford We’re celebrating the area this month with an alphabet of history, heritage, nature and culture. From history to horseshoes, Rutland has so many great stories, legacies, traditions and so many great people. This month we’re putting great meaning to the county motto ‘multum in parvo...’ A is for Almshouses. Almshouses are referred to as hospitals and is a house founded by charity, offering accommodation for poor people. Stamford has two almshouses that remain; Browne’s Hospital and Lord Burghley’s Hospital. The most imposing, Lord Burghley’s, was founded and endowed in 1597 by William Cecil for 13 poor men, one of whom was to serve as warder. B is for Burghley. How could we leave Burghley off this list? Burghley is one of the largest and grandest surviving houses of the 16th Century and a magnificent example of the great Elizabethan ‘prodigy’ houses. Conceived by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I between 1555 and 1587, Burghley is a testament to the ambition and vision of the most powerful courtier of the first Elizabethan age. C is for Castle. The Great Hall of Oakham Castle is the finest surviving example of Norman domestic architecture in Europe. It was built between 1180 and 1190. The surviving structure is the impressive Great Hall of the Castle used for banquets. D is for Daniel Lambert. Daniel was a gaol keeper and animal breeder in the 18th century famous for his unusually large size. He was a keen sportsman and extremely strong; on one occasion he fought a bear in the streets of Leicester. He was widely respected for his expertise with dogs, horses and fighting cocks. In 1809, he died suddenly in Stamford. He weighed 52 stone and 11 pounds, and his co n required 112 square feet of wood! Main: Normanton Church, Rutland. This lovely little church was rescued by the people of Rutland before the valley was flooded. Words: Tilly Wilkinson.
>>
“The George of Stamford would be a welcome stop for any weary Great North Road travellers...”
E is for Empingham. Empingham is one of the many pretty villages dotted around Rutland. It lies close to Rutland Water. During construction, Rutland Water was originally know as Empingham Reservoir but it was renamed to preserve the name of the county as it merged with Leicestershire. The Battle of Empingham was fought in 1470 as part of the Wars of the Roses. F is for Fly Fishing. The sport is prolific around these parts! It’s an angling method in which an artificial fly is used to catch fish. Casting a nearly weightless fly requires casting techniques significantly different from other forms of casting. G is for George. The exact age of The George of Stamford is unknown, but it’s likely to have existed in some form for over 1,000 years. The Great North Road was a popular highway for centuries, used by the Ancient Britons, Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Normans. The venue provided a break from the long and weary travel south/north. H is for Horseshoes. It remains a unique tradition that peers of the realm should forfeit a horse shoe to the Lord of the Manor of Oakham on their first visit. 230 shoes now decorate the walls of Oakham Castle.
Above: The stones of Stamford are certainly a highlight. Right: Tolethorpe Hall hosts Shakespeare productions (usually). Opposite: U is for Uppingham!
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I is for Independence. Rutland is now an independent county but it hasn’t always been so. From 1974 until 1997, Rutland was part of the county of Leicestershire. However it is now a proudly independent county and in 2007 celebrated a decade of independence. J is for Jeffrey. Jeffrey Hudson was as an English court dwarf at the court of Queen Henrietta Maria in the 17th century. He was known as Lord Minimus, and he grew up in Stamford! Read the column on the next page to find out more about Jeffrey. K is for Ketton. This lovely village in Rutland was originally Chetene meaning ‘on the banks of the River Chater.’ Robert of Ketton was an English medieval theologian, astronomer, translator and Arabist. He was the first person to translate the Qur’an into Latin. The translation was complete by 1143. L is for Lyddington Bede House. This historic is owned and opened to the public by English Heritage. The existing Grade I listed building is a part of a former palace of the Bishops of Lincoln, situated next to the church in the village of Lyddington, before it was transformed into a Bede House. M is for Multum. Rutland is well known for being the smallest historic county in England. Because of this, the Latin motto Multum in Parvo was adopted by the county council in 1950. The motto means ‘much in little’ meaning Rutland, although small, can offer so much. N is for Normanton. This village is mainly known for its church. In the 1970s much of the parish was flooded for the construction of Rutland Water. St Matthew’s Church was a private chapel for the Normanton Estate, but it was de-consecrated in 1970 and was to be demolished. However, following a public outcry, an embankment was built around the church leaving it a prominent feature on the water’s edge. O is for Ospreys. Rutland Water is home to the first Ospreys to breed in England for 150 years, after a translocation programme. They’re observed from their arrival from Africa in Spring, through to their Autumn migration. You can learn more about the magnificent bird of prey at Rutland Water Nature Reserve. 39
J IS FOR JEFFREY: The Queen’s Dwarf... Sir Jeffrey Hudson has quite the tall tale for such a short man! Hudson was a court dwarf of the English queen Henrietta Maria of France. He was famous across the 17th Century, often referred to as the ‘Queen’s Dwarf ’ and ‘Lord Minimus,’ and was considered one of the ‘wonders of the age’ because of his extreme but well-proportioned smallness. Hudson was baptised in Oakham in 1619. His whole family were all of typical size. Hudson’s father John was keeper of the baiting bulls for George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham. Hudson’s marvellous smallness and normal proportions became apparent in early childhood. Various theories existed for his size, including that his mother choked on a gherkin while pregnant, but he probably
suffered from a growth hormone deficiency caused by a pituitary gland disorder. In 1626, Jeffrey’s father presented him to the Duchess of Buckingham as a ‘rarity of nature’ and she invited him to join the household. A few months later, the Duke and Duchess entertained King Charles I and his young French wife, Queen Henrietta Maria. The climax of the lavish banquet was Jeffrey, served in a large pie in a miniature suit of armour. The Queen was so delighted that Hudson was given to her as a gift! He spent his life beside the Queen, fought with the Royalists in the English Civil War and fled with the Queen to France but was expelled from her court when he killed a man in a duel. He was captured by Barbary pirates and spent 25 years as a slave in North Africa before being ransomed back to England!
“Q is for Queen, but not the one you may think! Queen Isabella was gifted the county of Rutland in the 13th Century by husband King John...” P is for Prison. HM Prison Stocken is a Category C men’s prison located in Stretton. The prison today has a regime that includes education, training courses, gardens, recycling and a maintenance department. Q is for Queen. Queen Isabella actually owned the county in the 13th century. Rutland first appears as a unique entity in 1155, and as a county in 1204, when King John gave it as a dowry to Queen Isabella. R is for Reservoir. Rutland Water is one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe. By surface area it is the largest reservoir in the whole of Britain. It’s primary use is water storage, but now there are many uses of the reservoir. S is for Stone. The county of Rutland and the town of Stamford is fairly well known for its fabulous sandy stones, making a chocolate box look in every village. It benefits from the fabulous local quarries. T is for Tolethorpe Hall. The Hall and its gardens are used as an outdoor Shakespearian theatre. The auditorium is permanently covered. The Stamford Shakespeare Company presents three plays season each summer. U is for Uppingham. This is the second largest town in Rutland, alongside Oakham which is about six miles north. The market square is transformed once a year into the only fatstock show still to be held in temporary penning in a traditional market town. The first recorded show was in 1889. V is for Viaduct. The Welland Viaduct also known as the Harringworth or sometimes the Seaton Viaduct, is a railway viaduct which crosses the valley of the River Welland between Northamptonshire and Seaton in Rutland. The first brick was laid in March 1876 and the last was in July 1878. It has 82 41
arches, it is the longest masonry viaduct across a valley in Britain and it’s also a Grade II listed building. W is for Welland. The River Welland is some 65 miles long and flows through Rutland and Stamford. It drains part of the Midlands eastwards to The Wash. X is for Expatriates. of Uppingham School and Oakham School are plentiful. To name just a few, Hugh Jackman was a teaching assistant at Uppingham, Rowan Atkinson studied there and so did his Blackadder friend Stephen Fry. Other Uppinghamians include chef Rick Stein, property expert Phil Spencer, and presenter and doctor Christian Jessen. Old Oakhamians include actor Matthew Macfadyen, comedian Miles Jupp and producer Andy Harries. Y is for Yew Tree Avenue. The topiary at Yew Tree Avenue, once the carriage drive to Clipsham Hall, is now renovated and maintained. The avenue stretched for 500 metres with some 150 differently shaped yew trees leading towards the Hall, a Grade II listed mansion set in a landscaped park. Z is for Zoo. And finally Z! Bugtopia is a family owned small zoo. It was formed in 2012, taking over the former butterfly centre. It’s not just a zoo for bugs though, with crocodiles, lizards, frilled dragons and scorpions sharing the space. There are some birds there such as java sparrows. Visitors can hear them tweeting throughout the zoo. Other animals include the civet, related to the fossa and binturong. Some of the bugs you’ll see include leaf cutter ants, bumblebees and other creepy crawlies. Above: V for Viaduct. This is the longest masonry viaduct in Britain. Roundel: TV chef Rick Stein studied in Uppingham! Main: Beautiful Stamford and the Welland.
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The History of Rutland...
Words: Tilly Wilkinson.
1030: Edward the Confessor bequeaths Rutland to his wife Edith, which explains why one of Rutland’s villages is called Edith Weston. 1190: Walkelin de Ferrers builds Oakham Castle. After centuries, Oakham Castle still stands (as the main hall).
1548: Archdeacon Johnson establishes Uppingham School. This is one of the oldest schools in the country and it’s still there and is still used as a school to this very day. Check X for Expatriates to see what stars have stayed here.
1740: The Cottesmore Hunt is created. It’s the oldest foxhound pack in Britain. Its name comes from the village of Cottesmore where the hounds were kennelled. The original hounds were bought by Sir William Lowther.
1970: Parliamentary approval is given for the creation of Rutland Water, destroying Normanton Hall (above). Despite opposition from local farmers, the River Gwash valley is flooded and is now used today as a thriving nature reserve.
1974: Rutland ceases to be England’s smallest county in 1974, after the decision is made to merge it into Leicestershire, though the county’s road signs remain. Rutlanders weren’t particularly happy with their loss of independence.
1997: The county of Rutland, and the city of Leicester gain unitary status. Oakham is again Rutland’s county town, and Rutland is finally again recognised as a county and remains so to this day offering ‘Multum in Parvo.’
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PRI
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Barnsdale Lodge s David Bukowicki presents a lemon verbena posset with toasted meringue and biscotti.
FOOD & DRINK
Sweet Tooth:
Local Chefs’ Desserts Last month we looked at some of the top mains provided by the county’s best restaurants, and this month we’re having dessert. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, look forward to enjoying these soon... As the restaurants across the county are still closed currently - at the time of writing - we aren’t able to enjoy these lovely treats in our favourite restaurant settings!
So much effort and detail is put into the last dish of your three course meal, combining all sorts of elements from mousse and meringue to sorbet and crumbled biscuits.
If you are particularly proficient in the kitchen, you might be able to give these dishes a go at home (although it’s probably best left to the experts!).
It results in a combination of flavours and textures that is incredibly hard to recreate, and one that will leave you thinking about it for weeks to come.
The dessert dishes that we’ve had the pleasure of trying across Rutland and Stamford are simply works of art, so we thought we’d feature a few of our favourites this month that were particularly impressive, using the highest level of skill.
Our top chefs featured below are from across the county, cooking up a storm in our favourite restaurants. From deconstructed cheesecake to the most perfect creme brulée we hope you keep these in mind when visiting restaurants again...
Below: Some of the county’s most talented chefs, Fuel Tank’s Chris Ansell; Tom Hall of The Petwood Hotel; Chris Huggett of The White Hart, Ufford; Sean Hartnett of The Admiral Hornblower; Tony Fitt of Stapleford Park Country Hotel; Michael Prescott, Head Chef of The Griffin Inn, Irnham; David Bukowicki, Chef at Barnsdale Lodge; Holly Withers of Hoppi Dorri.
“If you’ve a sweet tooth like me, these dishes will be making your mouth water. Although a little too technical for home baking, we can’t wait to enjoy these culinary delights when the restaurants are open once more...”
Sean Hartnett presents his iced orange parfait with blood orange compôte and orange sorbet at The Admiral Hornblower in Oakham.
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Michael Prescott presents this chocolate ganache with pistachio, honeycomb and blood orange sorbet at The Griffin Inn, Irnham.
The Olive Branch at Clipsham presented us with beetroot curd, white chocolate & horseradish ice cream, frozen blackberries and beetroot meringue.
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Tony Fitt dishes up an assiette of apples from the estate (tartin; sorbet; panna cotta) at Stapleford Park Country House Hotel.
OUR FEATURED RESTAURANTS Please note, featured dishes are representative examples of our featured chefs’ skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change often, so dishes remain subject to availability. Check each restaurant’s website prior to your visit for a fresh menu to avoid disappointment.
The Admiral Hornblower: Oakham, LE15 6AS, 01572 723004, www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk.
Barnsdale Lodge Hotel: Exton, Rutland, LE15 8AH, 01572 724678, www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.
Blackberry sorbet with liquorice syrup, lemon cream and chocolate soil at The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa, home of chef Tom Hall.
A selection of beautiful homemade cakes at The Fuel Tank based at Engine Yard at Belvoir Castle.
The Fuel Tank: Engine Yard at Belvoir Castle NG32 1PA, 01476 247059, www.engineyardfueltank.co.uk.
The Griffin Inn: Irnham, NG33 4JG, 01476 550201, www.thegriffinirnham.co.uk.
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You will find this beautiful dessert served up by Chris Huggett at The White Hart, Ufford.
Hoppi Dorri: Stamford, PE9 2AR, 01780 766 772, www.hoppidorri.co.uk.
The Olive Branch: Clipsham, LE15 7SH, 01780 410355, www.theolivebranchpub.com. A delicious pear dessert served up by the Olive Branch.
The Petwood Hotel: Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QG, 01526 352411, www.petwood.co.uk.
Stapleford Park Hotel: Stapleford, LE14 2EF, 01572 787 000, www.staplefordpark.com.
The White Hart: Ufford, PE9 3BH, 01780 740250, www.whitehartufford.co.uk.
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In The KITCHEN If you’re craving a hearty meal, Sunday lunch or even ‘pub grub,’ there’s no reason why you can’t recreate a delicious restaurant dish at home! This incredible recipe will tick every box...
BAVETTE STEAK with Porcini mushrooms Preparation Time: 10 minutes. Cooking Time: 15 minutes. Serves Two. Ingredients: Two British beef bavette steaks, 1tsp Porcini mushroom powder, 2tsp sesame oil, mashed potato, sprouting broccoli, thick stems halved lengthways, 1tbsp unsalted butter, 1tbsp soy sauce, plus extra to serve, mixed exotic mushrooms and two garlic cloves, thinly sliced Take your steaks out of the fridge 30 minutes ahead of cooking.
Preheat the oven to very low and warm three plates. Rub the steaks with the Porcini powder and a teaspoon of oil. Season and set aside to marinate for five to ten minutes. Meanwhile, make the mashed potato. Steam the broccoli for for four to five minutes until tender. Put a non-stick pan over a high heat. Sear the steaks for two minutes on each side, depending on thickness, flipping after
each minute. During the last 30 seconds, add a knob of butter to the pan, melt and spoon over the meat. Lift the steaks onto a plate, splash with soy sauce, cover loosely and put in the oven. Add the remaining teaspoon of oil and butter to the hot pan, then toss in the mushrooms and garlic; season. Fry over a high heat for two minutes until golden. Slice the steaks across the grain and serve with the mushrooms, resting juices, the mash and broccoli, and a dash more soy sauce, if liked.
Recipes & Dishes: Find thousands of recipes online at www.waitrose.com/recipes.
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TIME FOR
Quarantinis Whether you’re looking to learn something new and expand your skills and knowledge during quarantine, or you’re just in need of a tipple or two, we present a guide to making cocktails at home. Locktail hour doesn’t have quite the same ring to it but we promise it’ll taste just as sweet...
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COCKTAILS
COMPLETED YOUR 1000-PIECE PUZZLE for the ninth time? Knitted yourself nuts? Watched everything there is to watch on TV? Maybe it’s time to do something a little different in quarantine. With bars, hotels and restaurants shut, we’ve had to make do with odd concoctions of whatever is in the drinks cabinet.
to make. Our cover stars come with quite interesting stories so take your pick on your favourite! The Tuxedo, more than any has had a lot of changes since it was created in the 1880s. The cocktail was named after the Tuxedo Club in New York where it was first made.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. How great would it be if you could shake up your favourite cocktail not just now, but after lockdown when you can impress your friends at a dinner party with your new found skills?
An English and French bar compete over who invented the Sidecar for a customer who arrived at the bar in the sidecar of a motorcycle. However, Bar veteran Dale DeGroff said that the name comes from the mixture that is left in the shaker, served in a shot glass on the side.
Well, before you get shaking, do read the side column to this piece to ensure you have all the necessary gear to get going. Once you’re kitted out, you need to have an idea of what
The Mint Julep is the drink of the Kentucky Derby. On the first Saturday of May, 80,000 Juleps are
Jug of Pimm’s No.1
Add 200ml of Pimm’s, 600ml of lemonade, sliced fruits and mint sprigs to a jug filled with ice and voila! No need to miss this summer staple.
All the Gear:
TOOLS YOU
WILL NEED You’ll need a cocktail kit to get you started. This isn’t vital, but a cocktail shaker ensures your drink is ice cold and mixed well so we would definitely recommend it. Set yourself up for success with a cocktail shaker, a strainer (some shakers come with this already attached), a spirit measure, a muddler or long spoon and a zester. You should be able to find all of this online along with lots of other fancy cocktail equipment. Now it’s time to decide on ingredients. Obviously, there are different spirits and mixers in each, but there are a few staples to add to your cabinet to suit a wide array of requests. We recommend a dry and sweet Vermouth and bitters, preferably Angostura bitters to start with. We also have to be clear on cocktail lingo. Most people can master cocktails but they see words they don’t know and close the recipe book.
Above: We all love a glass of Pimm’s in summer. The name of the spirit - Pimm’s No.1 - is not shameless self promotion - they tested all sorts of different concoctions but found their very first gin liqueur hit it out of the park! Left: Fresh fruit and herbs are vital to upgrade your drink from just a drink to a fancy summer cocktail.
served at Churchill Downs in Louisville, and countless more are enjoyed by the fans watching the race throughout the country. The Whiskey Sour was first published in a newspaper in Wisconsin in 1870. However, Elliott Stubb created the drink in Inquique in 1872. The history of the Screwdriver is somewhat debateable. Some claim it was made popular by American aviators. Others claim that it was made popular by American oil workers; they mixed it first with a screwdriver. It’s simply vodka and orange juice!
If martinis have always confused you, ‘dirty’ simply means adding olive juice and ‘dry’ simply means no vermouth so it’s just straight gin or vodka. A jigger is basically a measure, the hourglass shaped tool used to pour accurately. When a reciple tells you to ‘muddle’ something it’s basically asking you to mash the ingredients up a bit using the ‘muddler’ or a long spoon.
The Rusty Nail was invented in 1937 for the British Industries Fair trade show. It’s simply 50ml Scotch whisky and 25ml of Drambuie. This is derived from Gaelic, meaning “the drink satisfies.’ The same has been said about the Rusty Nail despite its unflattering name. 61
The Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail. Its combination of sweetness, citrus and mint flavours is intended to compliment the rum. It’s one of the most popular summer drinks. Believe it or not, the Moscow Mule did not originate in Russia. It was first created in Los Angeles in 1941 by a bar manager and a Smirnoff executive, hoping to sell Vodka to the Americans. This cocktail is very popular among the Hollywood elite. The Porto Flip was originally named the Coffee Cocktail on account of its appearance. It first appeared in Jerry Thomas’s Bartender’s Guide in 1962. The name Pina Colada literally means ‘strained pineapple’ in Spanish. This is a reference to the freshly strained and pressed pineapple juice used to prepare the drink. It originates from Puerto Rico. The Stinger is traced back to the 1890s in the US. It remained extremely popular until the 70s. It was seen as a drink for the upper class. It’s just brandy and white creme de menthe. There are of course many other cocktails that we haven’t included in this feature -
“Get creative with your cocktails - garnishes can make all the difference from a sugared rim to fresh fruit, herbs and flowers...”
A Champagne saucer is similar to a Martini glass although it’s round like a bowl rather than like the letter V. A Margarita glass is like a combination of the two - it starts off as a Martini glass and then curves like a Champagne saucer.
that’s why there are books on the subject but these drinks are a good starting point and hopefully inspire you to get a little creative at home!
Never overlook the power of a glass! Holding a Martini glass comes with an aura of elegance and sophistication that your plastic drinks cup simply can’t match. They’re not too pricy either, although we would recommend LSA if you are looking for a good set.
The last thing to consider is the glass. It may seem unimportant but it can have quite a profound effect on the enjoyment of the drink. Martini glasses are a trumpet shape, best for, well, martinis and some of the drinks we’ve presented like the Paradise cocktail. A highball glass is a long tall glass ideal for drinks like Mojitos and Planter’s Punch. An Old Fashioned glass is designed for - you guessed it - Old Fashioned’s and other whisky or brandy-based cocktails, or neat alcohol.
Most of the other glasses you will be familiar with - glasses for wine, pints for beer, flutes for sparkling wines etc.
Enjoy making your favourite cocktails at home and feel free to experiment especially with decoration! Rub a slice of lemon around the rim of a glass and dunk it in sugar for even more of a cocktail feel! Finally, please drink responsibly. One or two delightful cocktails is more than enough. When the bars open again, we can enjoy a delightful cocktail made by a professional with more than just a concoction from the kitchen cabinet!
Sidecar
Coat the rim of a Martini glass with sugar. Shake 50ml Cognac, 20ml Cointreau and 20ml lemon juice. Strain into the prepared glass.
PiĂąa Colada
Blend half a diced frozen pineapple, 175ml coconut cream, 75ml coconut milk, 225ml white rum and tbsp lime juice. Freeze before serving.
Tuxedo
Stir (don’t shake) 75ml gin, 25ml Fino sherry and two dashes of orange bitters with ice. Strain into a chilled Champagne saucer or Martini glass.
COVER
COCKTAILS
Mint Julep
Muddle five mint sprigs and two sugar cubes in a julep cup or Collins glass. Add 75ml Bourbon and fill the glass with crushed ice.
Whiskey Sour
Shake 75ml Bourbon, 30ml fresh lemon juice and 30ml simple syrup vigorously. Strain into a Martini glass and garnish with a cherry.
Get creative with your cocktails! Here are our cover stars, from tropical mixes to stronger flavours. When shaking, always add lots of ice to the cocktail shaker, shake until the bottom of the shaker is too cold to hold and then strain... Feel free to garnish your drinks with whatever you feel is appropriate. We have some visual ideas for you on this page.
Mojito
Muddle the juice of one lime, one tsp sugar and a handful of mint leaves in a Collins glass. Add 60ml white rum and top with soda water.
Moscow Mule
Squeeze 20ml lime juice into a mug (optional: add the lime shell too). Add 75ml vodka, and 175ml ginger beer with ice. Stir.
Porto Flip
Shake one large egg, 50ml ruby port, 25ml brandy and 10ml simple syrup vigorously. Fill with ice and shake again. Strain and serve with nutmeg.
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THE BLACK HORSE GOSBERTON RISEGATE
HOMEMADE, BEAUTIFUL, CLASSICAL DISHES
See our website for updates on opening days and times. Come and sit in our large garden due to re-open very soon (social distancing guidelines will be followed)
01775 840 995
www.theblackhorse-gr.co.uk 64
Wine of the Month
When life gives you lemons, drink Italian lemon gin
Ovens Farm, Solaris, Louth, Lincolnshire. £78 case six / 75cl / 13%
Because lemonade is so pre-quarantine... As we dream about walking along the Amalfi Coast or dining on a sunset-lit balcony looking over the sleepy mountains of Sorrento, a large glass of Malfy Con Limone Gin is simply vital.
You don’t always have to go far for a good wine - Ovens Farm is a local vineyard tucked away in the Lincolnshire Wolds! This month, they present a pale gold white wine with elegant aromas of passion fruit and rose petal.
This beautiful tipple’s key botanical addition is lemon peel sourced from the Italian coastline. The flavour is a refreshing zesty citrus while still maintaining complex gin flavours.
The palate gives a fruit forward rush of delicious, juicy, grapey character, with citrus notes lingering on the finish.
We recommend pairing with a Mediterranean tonic or lemonade and garnishing with lemon peel or lemon wedges. £25.79 / 41% / Lazio
The Wine Cellar THIS MONTH WE HAVE SUMMER TIPPLES FROM THE FIELDS OF ITALY. DISCOVER ITALIAN WINES THAT WILL WHISK YOU OFF TO THE GRAPE ESCAPE... ITALIAN TRIUMPHS: From Tuscany to Lake Garda, these wines will impress... 1. San Martino Toscana IGT is a warming red with a bold and dry flavour. Perfectly paired with cured meats. San Martino Villa Cafaggio has a bouquet of berries. £25.99 / 14% / Tuscany
2. An absolutely superb Italian white made by Stefano Inama, with an enticing, lifted nose, showing succulent aromas of honey, apricot and herbs. Enjoyed with appetisers and shellfish. £19.99 / 12.5% / Veneto
Bright acidity, but balanced well with fruity depth of flavours. Partner with spicy Thai dishes or try with prawns or lobster. www.ovensfarm vineyard.com.
A Real Corker: the Bollinger release after 30 years!
A bubbly treat for sunshine celebrations, a truly stunning Champagne, toasty and crisp and very dry. Bollinger Rosé Brut NV was the first Bollinger release for over 30 years and it’s a truly stunning Champagne. This is a seductive, toasty and crisp rosé showing flavours of summer berry fruits with a soft texture and a long finish. Grapes include Pinot Noir, Meunier and Chardonnay. £52 / 12% / Champagne
3. Gorgo Chiaretto Organic Rosé Bardolino is an elegant, bright rosé with aromas of wild red berries and spring flowers and a hint of citrus. Ideal with pasta and pizza. £11.99 /12.5% / Lake Garda
! Our featured wines are available from
the best local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary from those stated. 65
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The magic of the movies in your home
Let us design and build your ultimate home theatre with big-screen action, fully-immersive sound and luxurious seating
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HOMES & INTERIORS
Cerise Forest Japanese vintage silk with a punchy cerise hue, £155.
Kingfisher Blue Created using beautiful silks and a delicate colour palette, £70.
Silver Jubilee Designed by Liberty of London in 1977 for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, £185.
VIBRANT &
VINTAGE
Hera The front is 60s paisley and the reverse is a design called Hera, £120.
Botanical Bouquet Vintage silk on the front and a rose Jacqmar silk on the reverse, £185.
A great way to add a splash of colour to your home is through throw cushions, and we don’t think we’ve seen any finer examples than those of Nicholette Yardley Moore’s wonderful collection of vintage cushions... Visit www.vintagecushions.com for more information. Main is the Winter’s Tale, £140.
2nd June 1953 Very rare Jacqmar silk designed for the Coronation of the Queen in 1953, £250.
Golden Pheasant The silk for this cushion is a Japanese vintage, £155.
The Paradise Forest Soft silks depicting a beautiful paradise bird purched on a branch, £155. 75
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ESCAPE to the
CHATEAU The Pays de la Loire region in France is undisputedly beautiful with panoramic countryside, old country buildings and an abundance of wildlife. In fact, it’s very similar to our local area albeit with more baguettes and escargots. For Rebecca and Tim Jones of Stamford, their idyllic petit chateau in this area of France was just the challenge and the life they were looking for...
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“We got married, had kids, renovated the house and found ourselves looking for the next exciting challenge in our lives. We wanted a project that we could work on together and quit the nine to five...” IF YOU’RE AT ALL FAMILIAR with the TV show Escape to the Chateau, you’ve probably dreamt about your own French fairytale, living it up in a tastefully decorated country mansion surrounded by beautiful French countryside and living off a diet of wine, cheese and baguettes in no particular order. If you’re not familiar, the show follows quirky couple Dick and Angel as they work on their beautifully restored 18th century Chateau de la Motte Husson. You also see the couple meeting other Brits attempting and in many cases struggling - to restore their own crumbling castles. Escape to the Chateau certainly goes to show that there are plenty of ups and downs to owning a grand historic French castle, so is it all worth it? Rebecca and Tim Jones decided to follow the dream after watching the show in their home in Stamford. 80
“I’m originally from Cambridge and Tim is from London,” says Rebecca. “We met at university and planned to live in London but I didn’t like London quite as much as I expected...we lived in Bourne for some time and then we lived in Stamford for 10 years.” “We didn’t have any plans to move from Stamford and saw ourselves living there forever as we loved being close to Burghley and loved the community. We also have two boys aged eight and ten so it was a great area for them.” Rebecca was a journalist for a womens’ magazines and Tim worked in engineering. They loved their lives in Stamford but they were looking for a new challenge together “We got married, had kids, renovated our house in Stamford and we were now looking for something exciting to do together as a family. We came up with all sorts of different ideas, but most of them would mean that
The Meadow Suite was the third room to be completed in the Chateau back in 2019.
one of us would have to stay within their current job and we couldn’t do it ‘together.’” Rebecca was flicking through the channels one night when she came across an episode of Escape to the Chateau. She was hooked, and immediately started to do some research. To her surprise, they could get a Chateau in France for the price of their four bedroom house in Stamford! It ticked all the boxes - a Chateau would allow them both to work on a new and exciting project together and they could both leave their jobs as long as they were able to make it profitable. “It was very exciting to find such a fabulous place and a new project for us both to work on, although I don’t think we really knew what we were getting ourselves in for! They are quite the challenge.” The Chateau that they chose to invest in was Chateau de la Rûche. It’s a magical 18th century petit chateau set in 15 acres of 82
secluded private parkland and woodland in Le Mans in the Pays de la Loire region of France. “It was filled with potential but we had so much to do. When we first visited, it was a lot more tired and run down than the estate agent’s pictures illustrated, and the amount of rooms seemed to overwhelm us.” It was the structural features that Rebecca and Tim fell in love with from the original shutters and panelling to the garden full of stunning trees. It had so many elements that you couldn’t just create somewhere else, so they simply couldn’t walk away. When they first moved in, the conditions were liveable but the electrics and plumbing were faulty at best. The family spent the first winter predominantly huddled in the kichen with an inefficient log burner, wearing lots of clothes and blankets. It’s still not finished completely and the couple believe that it’s a project for life. It
“We wanted our guests to feel spoilt but not stuffy, so we designed the rooms to feel luxurious but to also have quite a down-to-earth edge...”
took about 18 months to do the initial renovations in order to get the business up and running. The couple first opened with just one bedroom in August 2018. The second bedroom was complete in October and then the meadow suite was complete in May the following year. Rebecca and Tim have recently renovated the kitchen after realising that this would be a vital component for the business to add value to their service. They are currently renovating one of the outbuildings too to turn into holiday letting. “We had our first elopement wedding in October last year and had some booked in for Summer this year. However, with the current Coronavirus situation we are having to get these rearranged.” They only offer small, intimate weddings currently but are planning to offer the option for bigger weddings in the future. They seem
to attract laid back couples who aren’t really looking for a massive party but more of a long, relaxed French lunch surrounded by very close family and friends. “The countryside around the Chateau is quite similar to Stamford - wide and flat open spaces,” says Tim. “In our immediate area, we’re surrounded by trees. It is so peaceful and tranquil. The roads certainly seem to be a lot quieter than Stamford!” In addition to weddings and accommodation, Rebecca and Tim also offer slow living, signature retreats. This is a three night stay with mornings spent foraging for seasonal foliage and flowers across the park, gardens and woodlands. Photography tuition takes place with fine art photographer Kim of Maru Photography and various visits to local French markets are arranged to collect fresh produce in order to create evening feasts.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in French culture, go back to basics and learning something new, this is a fantastic experience. “When we set out with the interior design, we wanted guests to feel spoilt but not stuffy, so we opted for a luxurious look with more of a down-to-earth edge. Every room will feature a stunning antique bed made with crisp cotton sheets and wool duvets.” So the couple have spent over three years at Chateau de la Ruche now and find themselves well suited to the French way of 83
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FRENCH CHATEAU
“To be able to take on a project such as this, it’s crucial to fall in love with the building. It gives you the passion and determination to continue...”
Top: The Honey Suite features a stunning antique bed and luxurious woollen blankets.
life. If you find yourself inspired by the incredible journey this family has been on and you’re now busily researching Chateaus of your own, Rebecca has some wise advice. “Just do it. If you really want to do it, you’ll do it. However, you need to understand that you will have to work extremely hard and you will need to have plenty of dedication.” “I’ve discovered that it is crucial that you fall in love with the building to give you the passion and determination to continue. It’s a long process and a very enjoyable one, but it’s not without its hardships!” “It was definitely a shock to the system for the kids but I grew up on a farm and had a wonderful childhood. The feeling of being able to roam free is something that I really wanted my children to experience.”
“Before the move however, there was one request from the children - we had to bring along the trampoline!” “If we had our chance again, I don’t think we would change a thing! It would be great to have more pennies, but when the budget starts to run out, it allows you to be more creative and that is half the fun of it!” Rebecca and Tim started out looking for something they could work on together, and a project that would allow them to quit the mundane nine to five, and that’s certainly what their wonderful find in the Pays de la Loire region has given them. We wish them all the best for the future and look forward to seeing their home evolve! ! For more information about Rebecca and Tim’s Chateau de la Ruche and to book a future visit yourself, please go to www.chateaudelaruche.com. 85
FULL DESIGN SERVICE, ALL MANAGED UNDER ONE ROOF
• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens • Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display • Over 60 appliances on show • Review our recent jobs on our website www.qksstamford.co.uk or visit our Facebook page • 25 large room settings in our extensive showroom The best quality, best value and best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981
THE AREA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT KITCHEN SHOWROOM The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855
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HOME STYLING
URBAN INFLUENCE We’re a little biased towards grand country kitchens, farmhouse styling and rich fabrics in this magazine and whilst this style of decorating is beautiful in homes in the countryside, it’s worth taking a few styling notes from big cities too...
The best thing about interior design is that there are no limits. Everyone has different tastes, preferences and styles and they can all look beautiful in their own unique ways.
cluttered and messy. They’ve chosen punchy patterns where necessary and toned down background items.
This month, we’re taking on a more urban styling from John Lewis in their SS20 homes collection called Urban Renewal. The modern furnishings, fabrics and decorations are very chic, practical and would suit a small London apartment or a grand country mansion.
The ‘60s revival’ trend seems to be growing and growing over recent years, but the brand has gone about it in a much cleverer, subtler way; instead of throwing orange all over the place, they’ve picked just the smallest of elements from the 60s to give you that retro feel without leaving the current decade.
What we love most about this collection is its simplicity and subtlety. It’s not shouting in vibrant colour nor is it a complete wash out; it’s not void of all decorations nor is it
Satisfyingly, they’ve also used lots of house plants - another growing urban trend - without overdoing it and creating an indoor jungle that needs watering all the time.
Above: Fluted glass storage cabinet, £599, Oak dining table, £999 and Scandi dining chair, £299. Right: Belgrave two seater sofa, £1,599, Tri coffee table, £350 and Swoon Rubin side table, £199.
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Elements like the fluted glass cabinet and reed sideboard add a touch of the 60s whilst still looking modern...
Left: Skye Jute rug, £140, Java II leather armchair in Selvaggio Green, £2,399 and fluted glass cabinet, £599. Above: Reed sideboard, £899, Broste Copenhagen Arild Stoneware Vase, £80 and matching flower pot, £12. Right: No.206 cushion in evergreen, £60, cotton velvet cushion in ivy, £25, quilting cushion, £30, rib knit throw in navy, £50, and finally, Belgrave two seater sofa, £1,599.
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Above: Reed sideboard, £899, velvet orange pouffe, £65, Gooch luxury hand knotted rug, £1,500. Top/Right: A selection of coloured crockery available online Above/Right: Canvas, £250, Jute rug, £140, Serax Inis black pot, £64, and Cello Hi-Fi music system, £199. Right: John Lewis’s designer glassware brand LSA offers a fantastic range of glass decorations. Tilt LED marble table lamp, £85. For more information visit the website www.johnlewis.com.
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House plants add so much to a home, but don’t overdo it. You don’t want to create an indoor jungle, and you don’t want to spend all your days watering plants....
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GARDENING
A Taste of the Med Enjoy the sweet smell of lavender and orange blossom in this beautiful Stamford garden. Steve and Karen are hoping to open for the National Gardens Scheme for the first time this year to show o their labour of love and raise money for important charities...
AS YOU STROLL AROUND Steve and Karen Bourne’s garden in Stamford, it’s easy to lose yourself amongst the sweet smell of lavender and the tree-lined avenues. Home Farm has a Mediterranean feel but looks over the area’s beautiful countryside instead of crashing waves.
Raised Vegetable Beds Raised beds are ideal for low maintenance vegetable growing; you don’t need to dig, you can add fresh, weed-free soil, and it won’t get walked on or compacted.
It boasts the ability to look beautiful in all four seasons which is quite the task. Steve, Karen and their family moved to Home Farm in 2007 and their desire was to create a family garden, but also to encourage diverse wildlife.
“We needed to create habitats that attracted more nature into the garden,” says Steve. “With an acre of garden and nine acres of grassland, this was an extensive learning curve for us all. We had to work out what would work well and where.” “We planted a woodland around the field to start with, and opted for 700 native trees including chestnut, field maple, oak, sycamore, lime, rowan, alder, birch, cherry, pine, walnut, plum, apple, hazel, holly and woodland shrubs. We also planted wild flowers and a lot of bluebells, creating a woodland walk. It’s now well-established and a pleasure to stroll through, especially in spring. ”
as colour. In winter frosts, the yellow and red stemmed cornuses are a focal point.
“A key feature, that was here when we moved in is the ha-ha wall,” adds Steve. “This ‘traps’ heat and so the beds in front of it are ideal for early rhubarb and asparagus. Soon after arriving here, we also planted an avenue of cherry trees. This links the formal garden with the field, and adds a burst of spring colour.” Moving into summer, the garden displays a wide selection of roses. “We included many old English varieties but there is always something new to tempt us. Leaping Salmon is one of our favourites and a successful recent addition is David Austin Harlow Carrs.”
To add a burst of colour in summer and autumn, the couple have recently planted a rugosa rose hedge that boasts white flowers throughout summer and red rosehips in autumn that are a great source of food for birds. Tibetan cherry trees have been integrated into the hedge for their interesting peeling red bark year round.
Creating different heights and textures with roses, delphiniums, foxgloves, salvias, dahlias, a few grasses and ferns has been important in the garden’s development.
Just like most gardens, Home Farm is at its most colourful in spring and summer but to ensure it still looks attractive in colder months, Steve and Karen planted two big shrubbery areas. These include plants like amelanchier, ribes, cherry, buddleia, crab apple and philadelphus or orange blossom, which adds fragrance as well
The garden’s autumn colour comes mainly from the trees. To create elegant shape as well as colour, Steve chose to replace a dead poplar, which was in a prime position on the lower lawn, with a pin oak. Pin oaks are one
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Above: A newly planted oval bed designed for height and colour (and Steve and Karen’s beautiful black lab). Right: There’s a multitude of avenues to guide you through the garden. Steve Bourne, Gardener at Home Farm.
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Main: Sarah’s garden features an unbelievable amount of beautiful elements from the tulips and fountains to the topiary and handmade greenhouse.
of the most rapid growing oaks, shooting up to 15 feet within five to seven years. Their brilliant lime green leaves turn a beautiful range of scarlet in autumn. To keep the family supplied with fresh fruit and vegetables, two raised beds were added along with an orchard and fruit cage. Interestingly, the orchard is inspired with varieties seen at Stamford Apple Growers. Stamford has at least 44 local varieties of apple, most of which were introduced in the late 19th century by Richard Gilbert, head gardener at Burghley and two nurserymen, Richard Brown and Thomas Laxton. “We also inherited some old plum trees. They produce cherry-sized yellow and red plums that are delicious and sell like hot cakes at the gate.”
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“We’ve inherited some old plum trees. They produce delicious cherry-sized yellow and red plums that sell like hot cakes for fundraisers!” With such a large garden, maintenance is a hefty job. That’s why Steve and Karen have regular help with the lawns and flowerbeds, particularly in the growing season and autumn. Home Farm’s next adventure is to introduce a wildflower meadow. This will hopefully create a carpet of colour beneath the ha-ha wall and towards the winter garden, adding to the variety of colour in spring and early summer, as well as encouraging more wildlife.
The couple have also now joined the National Garden Scheme. “We’re really excited about joining. We see this as a perfect opportunity to let others enjoy the garden we’ve created, which is a combination of hobby and hard work, and contribute to some great charities.” In 2019 NGS donated £3,000,000 from its open garden scheme to leading national nursing charities. Steve and Karen are really looking forward to adding to that fund. “We hope to open this year, on 5th July, but if we do, it’s likely to be by appointment. Hopefully, we can open properly in 2021. By then the next project - the wildflower meadow - should be underway.” ! For more information on this garden and to check whether it is open this year, visit www.ngs.org.uk.
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WILDFLOWER MEADOW
The Guide to Growing
WILD FLOWERS If you’re looking to bring more nature into your garden, a wildflower meadow is a great way of doing so. Attracting an abundance of busy bees and butterflies, a meadow can ensure the rest of your garden is very well pollinated and buzzing with life. Chris Neave at Brightwater Gardens tells us a little more about the task of establishing one that looks impressive... 105
“The best wildflower meadows look natural without looking unruly or unintentional. They’re quite the challenge but they can be very satisfying if you get it right. Beware - patience is necessary!”
Wildflower meadows make for an enchanting feature to any garden, illustrating an almost ethereal fairytale; you almost expect to see ladies in long dresses singing as they wander amongst the tall stems and fairies hanging from petals. Not only are they picturesque, peaceful spots, wildflower meadows are wildlife havens, filled with bees and butterflies, whic is why it’s so important to have one of your own. With a beautiful wildflower meadow of his own, Chris Neave at Brightwater Gardens is quite the expert, mastering the natural look without it looking unruly or unintentional.
“Wildflower meadows are one of the more challenging aspects of gardening but are one of the most worthwhile and satisfying if you get it right.” “The key factors for establishing a long-term meadow area is patience and lots of it! Ours took around 10 years before it started to look really good. There is of course the annual meadow which you reseed each year and consists of annual wildflower seed.” Where is the best place in the garden to grow a wildflower meadow?
“A sunny open site is always ideal, although wildflowers grow in a variety of locations in the wild. It’s best to have a soil that is low in nutrients, and lighter soils make it easier to cultivate. When selecting your area, make sure it has good drainage and it’s free of weeds.”
“Establishing a wildflower area is something that can be done either from a small area of a few square metres, or a larger area of up to several hectares, so you don’t need football fields of land to create one,” says Chris.
How do you prepare the ground?
It’s also worth noting you don’t need to make an entire meadow - bees and butterflies love flower beds full of wild flowers too!
“If the area is already an infertile area of lawn but weed free - perfect and rare - seed can be scattered directly onto the surface
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and raked in with a spring rake. Alternatively, cultivate the ground really well during the spring and summer months and remove pernicious weeds like couch grass, nettles and docks.” What time of year is best to sow wildflowers?
“The best meadows are sown in September as there is less competition from any pesky annual weeds and most wildflowers really need a period of cold to germinate which is a process called vernalisation.” How do you choose the right seed mixes?
“Purchase a good quality seed from a reputable supplier. The internet is filled with information on wildflowers and we buy all our seed from Emorsgate Seeds.” “Choose seed to suit your soil and aspect; good seed suppliers have specific mixes for the type of soil and aspect you have at home. The alternative is the annual mix which ideally needs reseeding every spring. We use Pictorial Meadows for the annual mix. If you struggle with patience, it’s always good to add annuals so you have something of interest to look at until your meadow comes into its full fruition!” “Wildflower meadow mixes contain slower growing finer grass mixes as well as wildflower seed.” What do you advise when it comes to actually sowing our seeds?
If you have a larger area, it’s wise to sow the seeds with a lawn seeding hopper.” Is there a lot of maintenance involved?
Types of Wildflower
“Cultivate the ground thoroughly by digging with a spade or fork, rotovate larger areas, then rake thoroughly and create a firm but not too compact seedbed.”
“In the first spring, your meadow area will look quite bare, but don’t be tempted to scatter more seed and do not add any fertiliser.”
There are around 1,600 species of wildflower in Britain and Ireland. We’ve listed some of our favourites here.
“Then before sowing, it’s advisable to mix the seed with dry sand to bulk the quantity up for seeding by hand. The seed mixture should be sown in two opposite directions to get good coverage. Do not use too much seed as this is both wasteful and not effective.
“When the grass gets about 75mm in height, mow it lightly and keep it short through the rest of the summer and autumn. Ensure that arisings are removed and composted. Don’t mow annual mixes.”
Autumn Hawkbits are dandelion-like golden flowers that appear from rosettes of leaves from June to October. Small clustered purple flowers and scalloped leaves of Betony are ideal for growing in damp, sunny or lightly shaded sites.
“The best wildflower meadows are sown in or around September as there is less competition from pesky annual weeds and wildflowers need a period of cold to germinate...” 108
“Remove any pernicious weeds like docks and thistles by hand weeding. Mowing should remove nettles.” “In the Autumn, sow some yellow rattle seed across the area at about 0.5 - 1g per metre. This is a wildflower that is a parasite of grass and reduces its vigour, allowing wildflowers to flourish with less competition.” “When it gets to year two of your wildflower meadown, the exciting bit begins!”
Burnet Saxifrage are small, delicate plants found in well-drained, grassy places. The vivid red colouring of poppies also make for a wonderful addition to a vibrant wildflower meadow.
“Continue to weed out pernicious weeds by hand. Allow the grasses and the wildflowers to grow through the spring and summer, and hopefully the very first pioneer wildflowers will start to emerge (most likely oxeye daisy, sorrel, knapweed, campion, burnet etc). You will have to wait quite a while longer for other flowers.” “In early Autumn or when the majority of flowers have senesced, cut the meadow and lead it off and either compost, or make it into hay. This is especially important as it reduces the fertility of the soil.” “Each year, with your continued patience and diligence, the meadow will get better and more exciting and you’ll start to see a bigger variety of wildflowers such as cowslips.” “After about eight years of our wildflower garden growing, we started to see our first common spotted and pyramid orchids appearing. Like I’ve said, this gardening project takes patience!”
What wildlife can you expect to attract?
“Wildflower meadows are incredibly important for wildlife providing food for many insects, particularly and most importantly bees and butterflies” “In time, the abundance of insects now enjoying your wildflower garden attracts more interesting bird species to your garden too.” “Our bee and butterfly populations have definitely increased massively over the past
15 years. A friend who knows a lot more on the subject of bees counted over 15 types in under 10 minutes! We frequently see common blue, small tortoiseshell, red admiral, meadow brown and brimstone butterflies. They add to the beauty of a wildflower garden.” So if you are considering growing wildflowers in your own green space, keep in mind that patience is a virtue! Despite the years of growth, maintenance is relatively minimal so it’s a manageable addition to a busy garden.”
Find Out More: Chris Neave’s beautiful wildflower meadow is a feature of his eight acre patch of land. It’s filled with formal gardens, lawns, meandering walks, paths wildflower meadow and woodland. There is interest all year round, and it opens for the National Gardens Scheme too. To visit, please call 01673 878820 or visit the website www.brightwatergardens.co.uk.
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BIRDS
Estate BIRDS
If you have a large estate or perhaps you’re just interested in keeping beautiful birds, then you might be interested in learning a little more about the likes of peacocks, swans and guinea fowl. They’re all fascinated creatures that we enjoy gazing upon but what are they actually like? ALL BIRDS ARE BEAUTIFUL but we seem to put native British birds into categories. For example, there are the sweet little garden birds chirping away throughout the day, the birds we’re not so fond of like blackbirds, seagulls and pigeons, and there are the more regal birds you’ll find strutting around an estate or farm proudly. One of the most colourful birds of the latter category that everyone recognises is the peacock. The male’s tail feathers are covered in striking vibrant eyespots which he shows off to attract females or peahens. He will displays his tailfeathers and quiver them which creates a low frequency sound that humans cannot hear but attracts other peacocks. All baby peacocks are born identical no matter the sex. It isn’t until the males are around two years old that peacocks will start to grow their first tail, taking three years to grow a full train. While we no longer take part in the eating of peacocks today, in medieval times it was not only eaten but its body was reconstructed as a centrepiece for the table! Most of us will have seen the beautiful bird parading around parks, but they’re actually one of the largest flying birds in the world (yes they fly!). Most choose short bursts of flying rather than long distances which is probably why not many of us can say we have seen this rare act of flight.
If you have a pond or lake nearby, you might prefer a mute swan or two. For centuries, mute swans were known as ‘Birds Royal’ as only the King or a few favoured subjects could keep them. Even today, unmarked mute swans across the country are technically owned by the Queen. You can always pick out a mute swan by its red-orange bill with a black bit of skin at the base. With their long-curved neck and graceful presence, they are a regular sight on our waterways, feeding on waterweed. Mute swans start out in life covered in grey fluff, which turns into brown feathers. After two years, their pure white feathers start to appear becoming the bird we recognise. Swans can live up to 50 years but most live no more than seven in the wild. There are six other species of swan in the world, but the mute swan is the only one you 111
ESTATE BIRDS
Right: The beautiful, bright Mandarin duck. Above: Quail are lovely little things! Top: The mallard, the most recognisable duck. Main: A graceful swan, gliding along the surface of the water of a lake.
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will see in Britain all year round. They choose to not travel far from their homes. Something that is particularly charming about mute swans is that they typically mate for life! Guinea fowl are also spotted waddling around estates. They’re a funny little bird, perfectly capable of flying but choose not to. They prefer to walk everywhere, sometimes walking up to six miles a day! They’re quite striking in their appearance; they have a bony structure on top of their red, blue and white head. Some have a wattle; that flap of loose skin that dangles beneath their jaw. Guinea fowl are very social birds but are also fiercely territorial and protective of their young. They’re actually quite ‘chatty’ too with a number of different calls and sounds. Pride HQ was home to several and although their screechy sounds were once quite the annoyance mid-article, they’re now sorely missed while we all work from home!
During the breeding season the male and female guinea fowl will call to each other at the same time. It’s almost like they’re singing a duet together! Their chicks are called keets. Guinea fowl are also guilty of doing ‘egg dumping’ which means they lay their eggs in other guinea fowl nests so they don’t have to have the boring job of incubation! Quail are another little bird you might find hopping about an estate. They’re probably most well known for their beautiful bright blue eggs. They can lay anywhere from 10 to 20 eggs at one time. Unlike guinea fowl and peacocks, they don’t choose to only fly a short distance; they physically can’t fly long distances. They usually live alone but they can form into flocks in autum. Also unlike most bird species, their chicks are ready to run straight out the shell! When they hatch, chicks are already well developed and are able to leave their nest and follow their parents straight away.
Ducks are also a fabulous addition with their familiar bread-pleading ‘quack.’ You can get diving ducks and dabbling ducks; the former dives deep underwater to get their food and are therefore a little heavier, and the latter feed on the surface of the water and sound like a great band. All ducks have highly waterproof feathers. A duck’s feathers are so waterproof that even when the duck dives underwater, the downy underlayer of feathers right next to the skin will stay completely dry. Ducklings are adorably cute, and when they’re less than 10 days old, they huddle together and do not leave their mother’s side. The most common across the globe is the mallard and that’s the most recognised, although there are many beautiful duck varieties in this country. One of our favourites is the brightly coloured Mandarin duck, a breed that was introduced to England from China. Oddly for a duck, it nests in trees high above water. 113
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WEDDINGS
THE PERFECT PROPOSAL After an eight year long relationship, Ben wanted his proposal to be perfect. Little did he know, Leia had also been planning her proposal, including an 11-slide Powerpoint presentation on her dream engagement ring! Their big day was just as magical as Ben’s beautiful proposal story... Photographer: Roo Stain, www.roostain.com.
Thirteen years later after first meeting at school, Ben and Leia’s relationship has grown from strength to strength. From typical teenage shenanigans to attending the same university and later surviving a long distance relationship, it’s safe to say that the newly Mr and Mrs Littlejohn are meant to be.
WEDDING SUPPLIERS BEN & LEIA LITTLEJOHN
Leia who works in travel as a Marketing Campaign Manager and Ben who is the Director of a fashion manufacturing company, have been together since September 2009, marrying just after their 10 year anniversary, and now live happily together in Market Harborough. “Ben proposed in November 2017 in San Marc’s Square, Venice with a string quartet playing in the background,” says Leia. “We had been together for eight years at the time and we had always talked of getting married so it wasn’t entirely unexpected but he had thrown me off the scent a few weeks before by explaining the trip was for my birthday.” “Ben loves to tell people that when he asked me what sort of ring I would like for when he did eventually propose, I created an 11-slide powerpoint presentation showing every detail. The jewellers who made my ring, Pragnell in Leicester, also found it rather amusing when he handed over the presentation to them. This of course makes me sound like a Bridezilla but I knew exactly what I wanted and I had been waiting eight years, so I had enough time to research!” “We started planning almost as soon as we landed back from Venice. I had always dreamt of marrying at Kilworth House for its stunning Orangery, beautiful grounds and fantastic rooms. Ben also loved the
venue and is a favourite within the family for parties. It is also where Ben asked my father for his permission to propose.” “We knew we wanted the venue to be exclusively for us so that our guests could feel totally relaxed on the day. Food was also the second most important thing for us and the dining at Kilworth is fantastic! There was something for everyone on the menu, my favourite being the croissant bread and butter pudding for dessert!” “Finding my dress felt like a dream come true. Having lost three stone ahead of the wedding with the help of my brilliant trainer and friend, Sophie, I wanted to make sure I found the perfect dress to show off my hard work but also one that fitted the venue and my style.”
Wedding Venue Kilworth House, 01858 880058, www.kilworthhouse.co.uk. Florist Chilli Peppers Florists, 01858 468665, www.chillipeppersflorist.co.uk. Cake Melody Cakes, 07941 882406, www.melodycakes.co.uk. Videographer Daniel Yates Films, 07817 584346, www.danielyatesfilms.com. Venue Decoration Princess Occasions, www.princessoccasions.co.uk. Flower Wall Midlands Flower Wall, 0121 7834835, www.midlandsflowerwallco.co.uk.
“I must have tried on about 15 dresses before saying ‘Yes’ to my Rosa gown by Suzanne Neville. The moment I put it on, I burst into tears and I knew I never wanted to take it off.” “My dress was embellished with silk organza roses which felt special to me as it’s the flower of Yorkshire, where my father’s family are from; my grandmother also had similar flowers on her wedding gown. I also had a bespoke veil handmade which had a scattering of delicate Swarovski crystals which glistened over my dress.” For Leia her most memorable part of the day was walking down the aisle with her dad beside her - a moment she will treasure forever. “Taking those last steps with my dad before seeing Ben was a feeling I can’t explain.” 117
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“We honeymooned at Christmas in Dubai and the Maldives which I have to say is the most beautiful paradise I have ever seen...”
Ben’s most memorable part of the day was the speeches as his best men, Jack and Ben, did a fantastic job of embarrassing him. “The speeches were great but I also loved seeing all of Leia’s hard work and dedication,” says Ben. “It made me so proud. The flowers blew everyone away and our vision of the day definitely came true.” “We had a mini-break at Ragdale Hall the day after the wedding and we honeymooned at Christmas where we flew to Dubai and the Maldives.” “I can honestly say the Maldives is by far the most beautiful paradise I have ever seen and I am sure I will never experience anywhere else like it.” “On a final note, to any other couples out there getting married, please remember that it is a celebration of your love, and although you want to put on a day for everyone to enjoy - put yourselves first!” Wise words from a very happy couple. Huge congratulations Leia and Ben! Photographer: Roo Stain, www.roostain.com.
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WEDDING TRANSPORT
Seven Ways to Show Up
IN STYLE
First impressions matter. That’s why when you’re planning your wedding, it’s really important to consider how you’re going to show up! Here we have six ideas to really impress your guests and remember how your day started with a bang... You only get to make your grand entrance once, so make it count. From horse drawn carriages and helicopter rides to super speedy sports cars there are so many options for your wedding transport. It’s time to make the best entrance of your life… Horse-Drawn Carriage: If you are planning a
fairytale themed wedding, then a horse drawn carriage has to be your choice of transportation. Following in the footsteps of Disney princesses and Royalty, what could be more romantic? This is also a great idea for equine lovers. Ultra Cool Campervan: For the seriously cool
and vintage bride, arrive in a VW Campervan. Decorate to your colour scheme, style and imagine the photo opportunities. Not only can they be used for the entrance, but you can start married life driving off into the sunset in your very own campervan!
Tractor: It may be unconventional, but for Lincolnshire and Rutland Brides and Grooms, a tractor seems the fitting entrance. Choose a vintage or modern John Deere and you will have all your guests talking. You can even hire a trailer for the wedding party.
Classic Car: You can’t beat the charm of a vintage car. The quintessentially British car is the ultimate wedding transport for the traditional bride adding a touch of nostalgia to your wedding day. London Bus: What’s more striking than a London Red Bus? Its iconic look makes the famous double-decker red bus the perfect wedding transportation, especially if you have a large wedding party. Dream Car: If your husband to be is into his cars, surprise him on the wedding morning with the car of his dreams! You can book a Porsche, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Maserati; the list is endless.
With self-drive or chauffeur driven options, give your fiancée the drive of his life. From the skies: Well there really isn’t any entrance more dramatic and show-stopping for your wedding day than flying in via helicopter.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, add in a helicopter ride as a surprise to the guests and maybe even your fiancé! It’s a great way to see your reception from the sky too.
Find Out More: Discover all sorts of wedding transport hire on the website www.ukbride.co.uk! It’s filled with inspiration and you can win a £25,000 wedding competition by becoming a member.
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I FEEL LIKE
A WOMAN We’re turning a new leaf in July, looking forward to going out with friends and family again to some of the county’s events, dressing fabulously head to toe in designer dresses from fashion house Vera Mont... This Page: ‘Sun Kissed’ dress, £210.
This page: Magic Flowers Dress, ÂŁ240. Opposite: Minty Breeze Dress, ÂŁ240.
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- FASHION -
Opposite: Sun Kissed Dress ÂŁ210. This page: Beautiful floor length yellow and floral gown, ÂŁ270.
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- FASHION -
Opposite page: Magic Flowers Dress, £270. This page: Top left is part of the Minty Breeze collection, £290. Top right is the Magic Flowers jumpsuit, £240. Bottom left is the Minty Breeze jumpsuit costing £210 and bottom right is the Minty Breeze mint green maxi costing £415.
Vera Mont can be found at House of Fraser, online and other local stockists.
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T H E
L U X U RY
B R A N D
Cartier is synonymous with luxury and is the epitome of high end designer brands. We’ve seen everyone from Grace Kelly to Kate Middleton adorn themselves in Cartier diamonds and rubies, but how did this jewellery giant come to be? Cartier is world-renowned fashion brand, recognised by anybody and everybody, and commonly seen on the luxury fashion streets of London, Paris, Milan and New York. You will also see Cartier on European royalty, Russian princesses, maharajahs and freshly minted US millionaires and billionaires. It’s been worn by everyone who is anyone on the red carpet from Liz Taylor and Grace Kelly to Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian. It is one of the most prestigious jewellery manufacturers in the world, founded by Louis-François Cartier in 1847. The company remained a family enterprise for 117 years. Although Louis-François was the creative heart and founder of the maison, the several generations of different personalities, most importantly his three grandsons, were the key to the enormous success of the Cartier fashion business, with all three sharing the same desire to take the brand to the next level. Louis-François Cartier was born in Paris in 1819 and started his career as an apprentice under master watchmaker Adolphe Picard and worked in Picard’s small store on Rue Montorgueil where he watched his employer’s business struggle to become even moderately successful. Eventually, in 1847 when Cartier was just 29 year old, he bought the store to begin the global empire Cartier is today. It was in 1874, Louis-François’ son Alfred Cartier took over the company and whilst Alfred was much more business-oriented than his father, it was Alfred’s sons Louis, Pierre and Jacques who established the brand name
worldwide. The ‘Cartier Brothers’ are often credited with most of the success of this enormous fashion house. Louis had the skill and imagination to create new things, Pierre had the business mind and took the firm to New York and Jacques the youngest brother, who opened the London store, was a gemstone expert. All three shared a dream; ‘to build the leading jewellery firm in the world.’ Louis, the most well known of the Cartier brothers, ran the Paris branch in Rue de la Paix. He invented the first wristwatch, the Santos, in 1904 to replace the fashionable but unreliable and impractical pocket-watch for men on the move. In 1907, Cartier signed a contract with Edmond Jaeger, who agreed to exclusively supply the movements for Cartier watches. Louis was also responsible for the introduction of platinum into jewellery, making it possible for the platinum to be strong enough to hold gemstones in place yet light enough not to detract from them. “The thick settings of gold, silver and heavy woven strands that had been known since time immemorial were like the armour of jewellery,” said Louis Cartier famously. “The use of platinum, which became its embroidery, an innovation that was introduced by us, produced the reformation.” Pierre was the middle brother and savvy businessman. He established the New York City branch in 1909, and in 1917 moved to ‘one of the finest’ residences in the area, 653 Fifth Avenue, the Neo-Renaissance mansion of Morton Freeman Plant.
Three Facts About Cartier You Didn’t Know.... KING EDWARD CROWNED CARTIER King Edward VII of England was very fond of Cartier’s fabulous work and named Louis Cartier ‘the Jeweller of Kings and the King of Jewellers.’ He was one of many royals to love the jewellers.
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THE HIGHEST PRICED JEWEL The highest auction price for a Cartier jewel sold for $30,335,698. It was the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.6 Burmese ruby sold in a Sotheby’s auction block in 2015. It’s the most expensive non-diamond gemstone in the world.
NEW YORK’S CARTIER SCREW DRIVERS The Cartier Love bracelet is so popular that hospitals in New York have to keep Cartier screw drivers to remove them from a patients’ wrist during an emergency. The bracelet was inspired by chastity belts and are locked.
Cartier’s flagship London store.
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Incredibly, he bought this property by trading it for a $1,000,000 string of pearls and $100 cash - arguably the deal of the century! Pierre may not have been the creative genius his brother Louis was, but he was certainly one step ahead of the game when it came to knowing how to market a business. He managed to get a hold of the 45.52ct deep-blue Hope Diamond, once named Tavernier Blue, discovered in 17th century India and notoriously ‘cursed.’ The bright blue diamond had fallen into the hands of people who were shot on stage, ripped apart by dogs and Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI, who enjoyed the diamond as part of the French crown jewels before being beheaded during the French Revolution! Its name was changed for obvious reasons by a London banking family in the 1830s. Pierre Cartier sold this tremendous jewel with an interesting history to high profile client Mrs Evalyn Walsh McLean. This came with plenty of publicity in many of the headlines of America’s newspapers and gossip magazines. The less known and youngest of the Cartier bothers Jacques, opened and took charge of the London branch. Jacques often travelled in search of high quality pearls and precious stones to exotic destinations such as the Persian Gulf, Sri Lanka and India and it was his eye for exceptional beauty that gained him his loyal clientele in England and abroad. It was these huge orders coming from the East that kept the business alive during the Great Depression and many other financially difficult times for brands such as Cartier. The three brothers certainly had the business acumen to not only keep the business alive during these times, but to grow it.
purchased. When Robert Hocq asks one of his staff members what the Cartier brand stands for, the very proud reply was “Cartier it’s a must!” This prompted the creation of the phrase and the line called “Les Must de Cartier.” This became a spin-off lower-priced line of Cartier with Alain D. Perrin being its CEO. The brand is now owned by Richemont, the Swiss luxury goods conglomerate that also boasts brands like Van Cleef & Arpels and Jaeger-LeCoultre in its portfolio.
In 1972, after the death of Pierre, Jacques’s son, Louis’s son and Pierre’s daughter sold the business, Cartier Paris, to Robert Hocq, thus ending the family business.
With such an interesting story and incredible brand recognised by people across the globe, the brothers certainly achieved their dreams for Cartier.
Shortly after in 1974 and 1976, Cartier London and Cartier New York were also
However, it’s the journey of reaching this dream that we find most fascinating, and
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one member of the family recognised that. Francesca Cartier Brickell, the great grand daughter of the youngest brother Jacques, has travelled the world to research her incredibly interesting family history. Francesca has gained exclusive access to her long lost family archives. Since coming across an abundance of information on the subject, she has decided to tell the story of the Cartier family and their jewellery empire but also how they became the firm favourite of the rich, famous and even royal. It was in her grandfather’s - Jean-Jacques Cartier’s - cellar in 2009 whilst celebrating his 90th birthday when Francesca Cartier Brickell discovered a battered old suitcase full of hundreds of letters and photographs of the family.
T H E
L U X U RY
B R A N D
SUMMER SHOES
CARTIER &
ROYALTY Since 1902, when Cartier opened a store in Mayfair London, the British Royal family have worn designs from the French jeweller on many special occasions. It was in 1904 when King Edward VII gave the firm a royal warrant (a document that gives permission and responsibility for the display of the relevant Royal Arms in connection with the business). From then on, the Royal family have continued to shop at Cartier. In 1936 King George VI purchased the Cartier Art Deco diamond and platinum Halo tiara as a gift to Queen Elizabeth I which was then given to Queen Elizabeth II as an 18th birthday present. This is quite possibly the most famous piece of Cartier in Queen Elizabeth II’s jewellery box. It was also the tiara that was worn by Kate Middleton for her wedding in 2011.
“Pierre Cartier managed to get a hold of the beautiful Tavernier Blue diamond, renamed the Hope diamond due to a ‘cursed’ reputation...” Francesca decided she was going to take off on an adventure between London and the French Riviera to track down as many perspectives as possible. After completing her trip and compiling her stories, she released a book called ‘The Cartiers: The Untold Story of the Family Behind the Jewellery Empire.’ The book tells a captivating story behind the
Cartier empire and reveals never before told dramas, romances, intrigues, betrayals and more. The Cartiers also offers an insight into the most recognised pieces of jewellery such as the ‘cursed’ Hope Diamond, the Romanov emeralds, and the classic panther pieces.
In addition to the Duchess of Cambridge, the Queen has also loaned the tiara to her sister Margaret and daughter Anne.
At the end of the book, Francesca reveals a collection of the old real life letters and photographs that she found in the suitcase that prompted her adventure to delve into her family’s past. She decided to publish the book in the 200th anniversary year of the birth of the dynasty’s founder, Louis-François Cartier. Images: The Cartier brothers Pierre, Louis and Jacques (left to right). Above is Louis full length and Pierre at his desk.
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SUMMER BEAUTY
Coloured in Coral CRUSH IN CORAL THIS MONTH WITH A SELECTION OF OUR FAVOURITE PRODUCTS FROM DESIGNER BRANDS, FROM BRIGHT EYESHADOWS TO SHIMMERING BLUSH...
1. Kissing in Coral... Elizabeth Arden is a well known brand for creating long lasting and beautiful products, but their Beautiful Colour Moisturising Lipstick is our favourite. It comes in satin-matte colours with 12 hour lasting power. Glides on with silky smooth comfort and saturates lips with bold, intense colour. Moisturise lips with a single swipe of colour that’s comfortable to wear and sumptuously soft, £22.
2. J’adore Dior... `Discover the new generation ‘Dior Vernis’ and its ingenious formula that plays up the gel effect. ‘Gel Coat’ resins combined with a Techno-Polymer transform each coat of enamel into a film as smooth and shiny as glass. Enriched with organic silicon, the polish strengthens the nail for longer wear, £22.
5. Blush from Beverly Hills... Anastasia Beverly Hills Blush Trio features three shades that can be worn alone or blended together for a variety of different looks. Pick the perfect hues from the brand’s selection of five colours to give your look the addition of glowing radiance. We love the ‘buildability’ of this blush palette allowing you to create a multitude of striking different looks to suit you, £30.
6. Scent of the Summer from Hermès...
3. Luxe Lips...
The scent of the Hermès girls, Twilly d’Hermès is a daring fragrance. Ginger, tuberose and sandalwood are given a new twist. Combined differently, they become searing spice.
Tom Ford’s Gloss Luxe is the evolution of lip gloss with a light-as-air feel and in a sheer-to-medium coverage. Infused with three nourishing oils including avocado, olive and jojoba, £38.
A floral, spicy and oriental Eau de Parfum, each with a unique hand-tied silk ribbon, £49.99.
4. Coral Compact Huda Beauty adds to her Obsessions eyeshadows line by bringing a striking range of neons. Each edited compact comprises of a selection of nine highly-pigmented mattes, creamy metallics and striking shimmers, £27.
! All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, please note that prices stated are RRP and may vary according to retailer. 139
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THE BEST SALOONS
THE SIMPLICITY OF
SALOONS
The sporty style and practicality of a saloon car is underrated these days. Not only is the style of saloon simple and almost sporty, they are as practical if not more practical - than the fleet of fuel-guzzling 4x4s and SUVs... Words: Tilly Wilkinson.
“The long slender style of a saloon does justice to an adaptation of a sports car; if sports cars and convertibles are unruly teenagers, saloons are mature silver foxes...” IN THESE UNUSUAL TIMES, so many of us are having to juggle jobs we’re not quite used to tackling - for me, that means this month’s motors feature. For my colleague Rob Davis, you only have to mention the word ‘motors’ for his ears to prick up, eyes widen and fingers twitch in excitement and anticipation over his keyboard. Horse power, boot space and alloy wheels are not words that thrill me - I’m more of a flagstone floors, bifold doors and inglenook fireplaces kind of writer - but alas, I will try to do Rob’s pride-and-joy feature justice this month with a selection of saloons. Saloons seemed to be all the rage until Range Rover and other classy 4x4s took the limelight, also boasting practicality, luxury and style, but when you compare the two, I think we’ve been hoodwinked. I’m not knocking Range Rovers - they’re still a firm favourite - but I’m not sure we can make the argument that they’re the most practical car without compromising on style and luxury on the market. First of all, saloons are lighter and lower to the ground making them sportier, much easier to drive, smoother on turns and more affordable at the rarer trips to the petrol station. Their lighter load translates in the price tag too - does this mean we’re paying more for a 4x4 to enjoy less performance and worse fuel economy? Ouch. There’s no denying that Range Rovers are beautiful but many of the other ‘stylish’ 4x4s out there aren’t exactly the sexiest hunks of metal on four wheels. Although Porsche, Jaguar and Mercedes are reputable brands, their clunky 4x4s look like someone pumped their classy flagships with steroids. The long, slender style of a saloon is classy and does justice to an adaptation of a sports 144
car; if sports cars are unruly teenagers, saloons are silver foxes. But perhaps size matters? After all, 4x4s usually come with the option of seven seats, ample boot room and a high roof. First of all, unless you’re Steve Martin in Cheaper by the Dozen, the extra seats will always be a waste of money. When it comes to ample boot room, saloon cars are fairly well known for also having this feature and as for a high roof - well it all comes down to whether you’re willing to pay thousands of pounds more just for extra air overhead. And please spare the ‘offroad’ advantage. We both know the most offroading you will be doing is parking on a slightly raised curb outside a village pub or driving over a few potholes down a backroad. As cool as it is that Range Rovers can scale Snowdon like mountain goats, it’s just not a feature you will ever see the benefit of, and yet it’s a benefit you’re paying for. Now we’ve weighed up the advantages of investing in the underrated saloon, which is best? Over the past year, some of the best manufacturers have launched their latest, so we’ve picked options from Bentley, Audi, BMW and Mercedes to suit. First of all, Bentley’s third generation of the luxury four-door Grand Tourer ‘Flying Spur’ has seen some striking enhancements, and there’s no doubt it’s one of the most elegant, stylish and classy saloons on the market. It seems to combine sports sedan agility with modern limousine refinement and of course, it’s fitted with cutting-edge technology and exquisite modern craftsmanship as one can only expect from a Bentley. If you’re looking for something a little sportier, BMW’s M340i xDrive features a six-cylinder in-line engine producing 374hp - apparently a hell of a lot of horse power.
OUR favourite
SALOONS Mercedes AMG E53 Cost: From £65,000 Engine/Motor: 3-litre 6-cylinder with exhaust gas turbocharger. Performance: 0-60mph: 4.5 seconds. Top speed 155mph. Uniqueness: Voice recognition software and modern cabin. Other Highlights: MBUX infotainment system, performance steering, all wheel drive and drive programmes.
Audi A3 Cost: From £26,000 Engine/Motor: Choice of three - two 1.5-litre TFSI units and one 2.0-litre TDI, all majoring on efficiency. Performance: 0-60mph: 8.1 seconds. Top speed 151mph. Uniqueness: Matrix LED lighting with new digital daytime running lights. Other Highlights: Digital cockpit and touch display as standard. Mild hybrid technology in some versions.
BMW M340i xDrive Cost: From £48,000 Engine/Motor: Six-cylinder with TwinPower Turbo technology 374 hp. Performance: 0-60mph: 4.1 seconds. Top speed 155mph. Uniqueness: Aerodynamic design. Other Highlights: Futuristic styling.
Bentley Flying Spur Cost: From £168,000 Engine/Motor: 6.0-litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine. Performance: 0-60mph: 3.8 seconds. Top speed 207mph. Other Highlights: Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Great Britain.
Top/Left: The sleek slender AMG. We love the sloped back feature of this model. Bottom/Left: The BMW has been designed to be aerodynamic, thus reaching speeds of 155mph.
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Brakes and suspension have also been designed with sport and power in mind. It’s just cool and yet practical for everyday life. The Audi A3 Saloon has always been a popular choice, but the model’s reboot in April has given it almost futuristic features and a very comfortable experience. First of all, the look of the A3 is everything we’re looking for - a practical five-door sleek saloon with sports styling and features. It also comes with Matrix LED lighting and a new digital daytime running light (for selected models). The digital cockpit and touch display comes as standard. And finally we have my favourite, the Mercedes AMG E 53 4Matic. It’s the newest of the cars we’re featuring being released in May this year. The three litre engine makes the new AMG fun to drive and the extensively revised suspension makes it comfortable too.
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If Audi looks futuristic, the new Mercedes is futuristic. From the strip lighting to the incredible infotainment system and voice recognition technology - that’s right, it has its own Alexa/Siri - this car comes with everything you could possibly need or want a car to do to aid in everyday life. If you’re going for speed and sport quality, opt for the BMW. If you’re after a saloon that focuses on quality and luxury, the Bentley is the best choice. For a saloon with a ‘younger’ look, the Audi will appeal while the Mercedes is an all round sporty, modern and luxurious car. We’ll still be driving around the county in our 4x4s because let’s face it - they look cool, feel cool and they’re great for families living in the countryside - but we hope you weigh up all your options next time you’re on the look out for a car that combines all your everyday essentials in one classy sleek style.
“For speed and sport quality, we recommend the BMW. If you’re after luxury, go for the Bentley...” Below: The luxurious interiors of Bentley’s Flying Spur. Right: BMW’s sporty M340i xDrive with red interior.
MOTORS
HORSE POWER
Bentley Mulliner has just introduced a new equestrian edition to the Bentley Mulliner Collections portfolio. is collection is the epitome of luxury and class, but the brand new equestrian style is a near perfect design with all of Bentley’s quality fittings and fixtures... THIS ONE OF A KIND Continental GT Convertible embodies a myriad of distinctive features, building on the many strengths of Bentley’s iconic open top Grand Tourer. Inspired by the greatest racecourse in the world and home to the most exhilarating and prestigious event of the horse racing calendar, The Cheltenham Festival, the sole example of the Equestrian Edition has been specially commissioned by Bentley Bristol and hand built by Bentley Mulliner in Crewe, Cheshire. To celebrate the car’s inspiration, it was recently photographed outside Jackdaws Castle - the world-renowned state of the art equestrian training facility and home of Jonjo O’Neill Racing, just 10 miles from Cheltenham Racecourse. Sumptuous embroidery and artisanal marquetry rarefies the Equestrian Edition. Horse and rider silhouettes adorn all four seats, that are finished in the aptly named sustainable Saddle hide. A striking Cumbrian Green secondary hide complements the bespoke equestrian theme. The same horse and rider silhouette accompanies Bentley Mulliner branding in the front fascia, where lavish gold detailing stylishly accentuates the straight grain walnut single veneer and box wood inlays.
The car comes equipped with both suites of Bentley’s state of the art driver assistance technologies. The Bentley Touring specification includes Lane assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Bentley Safeguard Plus, Night vision and Head-up display.
Continuing the interior theme, the diamond quilting now synonymous with Bentley Mulliner is crafted using an authentic Tweed fabric, with a contrasting light blue stitch introducing a modern touch and providing a distinctive feature to the door inlays and rear quarter panels. The iconic Bentley Mulliner team have also applied their trademark branded treadplates to complete the bespoke interior of the Equestrian Edition. To the exterior, a specially commissioned and distinctive shade of green called Spruce is paired with Blackline Specification, which replace bright chrome with gloss black versions to all exterior brightware, bezels, radiator grill and exhaust outlets. Bold 22-inch wheels in gloss black complete the specification.
Bentley’s City Specification incorporates Top view camera, Tra c sign recognition, City assist, Pedestrian warning, Reversing tra c warning, Automatic dimming mirrors and Hands-free boot opening. It really is a one of a kind, beautiful car inside out with a classic Bentley finish and yet all the modern software and technology one can expect in such an incredible vehicle in this day and age. Bentley Mulliner is renowned throughout the automotive world for crafting some of the most individual Bentleys ever created. Bentley Mulliner is actually the birthplace of coachbuilding (designing and building the body of cars as passenger carrying vehicles). Bentley is in fact the oldest automotive coachbuilder in the world. The experienced team, supported by in-house engineers and designers at the headquarters in Crewe, prides itself on an a rather long history of fulfilling the desires
“A striking Cumbrian Green hide complements the bespoke equestrian theme. A horse and rider silhouette accompanies Bentley Mulliner branding in the lavish front fascia...” and demands of all of its Bentley customers purchasing these vehicles worldwide. The new equestrian model is not all that’s new for the brand. A three-portfolio structure sees an expansion of Bentley Mulliner in the coming months. While Bentley Mulliner Collections provides bespoking services to Bentley’s existing model range - which is where you’ll find the equestrian model - Bentley Mulliner Classic will deliver classic car
restorations (such as last year’s 1939 Corniche) and Continuation Series which includes Bentley’s iconic 1929 Team Blower. Finally, Bentley Mulliner Coachbuilt is defining the future of coachbuilding, and debuted the new Bentley Mulliner Bacalar in Crewe a month or so ago. If you want a car that illustrates your own passions, that is the epitome of quality and luxury, the new Equestrian Edition from Bentley Mulliner might be the car for you.
BENTLEY MULLINER Price: Pricing hasn’t been disclosed but the Continental GT starts at £151,800.
Engine: 6.0-litre W12 petrol engine.
Performance: 0-60mph in 3.7sec; 207mph top speed.
Economy: 23.3 mpg (combined). Equipment: Bentley’s City specification and Bentley’s Touring specification.
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