Stamford Pride February 2022 by Pride Magazines Ltd

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PRIDE STAMFORD

STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

The Best Local Churches

Celebrating what’s on Stamford’s skyline...

Fine Art Comes to Stamford

High profile artists, right here in the town...

FREE ONLINE

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WELCOME

ecause our January edition was published just before Christmas, I’m now able to bid you a warm welcome to the first Pride Magazine of the year! A new year typically brings a sense of optimism, but for 2022 that feeling of anticipation is heightened by a hope that we’ll be able to get back to the sense of normality denied to us in 2020 and 2021. It won’t be long until we can venture out and enjoy spring in Rutland and Stamford once more, but in the meantime, we’re delighted to bring you some fireside reading. This month we’re bringing the stories behind a few of our favourite local churches; those with particular architectural, historical or cultural significance. We’re also meeting a few of Stamford’s most famous residents following the news that three of those we’re featuring will be honoured with a blue plaque in the town. It’s the first time since 2018 that Stamford’s Civic Society has approved the creation of new plaques. Elsewhere? We’re celebrating the arrival of Fairfax & Favor in the town, attending the VIP opening of the retailer’s new store in Stamford, we’re enjoying quality dining out on Uppingham’s High Street at The Crown, and we’re enjoying a selection of fine art from Adrian Hill’s superb gallery. Our best wishes, for a great month!

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk

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126 CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS 08

NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford. This month, a Royal visitor to Rutland and the return of the CiCle Classic.

WHAT’S ON February’s live events.

HIGHLIGHTS 18

08 4

SIMPLY DIVINE Celebrating the area’s most historically, culturally or architecturally significant churches.

BURGHLEY’S INTERIORS We examine some of Burghley House’s most beautifully furnished state rooms and bedrooms.

HOMES Cool, calm and collected neutral colours to give your home a relaxed new look.

102 WILDLIFE An appeal for Rutland and Stamford’s gardeners to look out of the window and help with the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.

STAMFORD’S MOST FAMOUS

FASHION & LIFESTYLE 110

MOTORS A small but perfectly

THE FINEST ART A peek behind

115

HIGH LIFE Celebrating the arrival of

FOOD & DRINK

DINING OUT Enjoying relaxed dining at The Crown in Uppingham.

As three of Stamford’s most famous sons are to be honoured with blue plaques, we’ll meet the town’s most famous inhabitants. the scenes at one of the area’s finest fine art galleries.

HOMES & GARDENS

RECIPES & WINE For Valentine’s Day.

formed SUV from Porsche. luxury lifestyle brand Fairfax & Favor on Stamford’s High Street.

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FASHION Skiwear that’s as smart as it is practical, plus winter cosmetics.

126 WEDDINGS Stacey & Tim prove that the best things come to those who wait.

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Pride Magazine is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, to high value homes in the county. Our circulation is to homes in the top three council tax bands, which are predominantly worth over £300,000. This guarantees the magazine has an affluent readership commensurate with our content. The magazine is also sold in supermarkets and newsagents and our in-house distribution team also works hard to hand-deliver the magazine to selected hotels and restaurants, doctors, dentists, executive motor dealerships and golf clubs. This helps to ensure we have a continued presence, right across our catchment area. Our titles also have more social media fans than any other local magazine. In addition we have over 30,000 online readers each month who view the magazine free of charge, online, on their tablet, computer, laptop or mobile phone via our website, our app, and via the Readly and Issuu platforms. If your business would benefit from being showcased to the wealthiest people in the area, please call our friendly sales team on 01529 469977. Amazing new app out now: You can read our magazines on any device anywhere.

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

THE PRIDE TEAM

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

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson. Sales Director: Zoie Wilkinson. Sales Manager: Cydney Buck. Executive Editor: Rob Davis. Illustrator: Jocelyn Lawman. Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray. IT Manager: Ian Bagley. Web Developer: Joe Proctor. Accounts Manager: Sami Millard. Senior Accounts Manager: Paul Robinson-Marsh.

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

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OUNDLE MILL KITCHEN & BATHROOM DESIGN

Consultation by appointment oundlemill.co.uk Oundle Mill | Barnwell Rd | Oundle | Peterborough | PE8 5PB

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NEWS & EVENTS

A Royal visitor enjoying Rutland

RUTLAND RECENTLY WELCOMED HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF GLOUCESTER... RUTLAND His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester was welcomed to Rutland last month. On The Duke’s first visit to Rutland since November 2019, His Royal Highness travelled to six official engagements around the County, the first of which saw him plant a tree to complete Rutland’s newly created Duke of Edinburgh Memorial Orchard, located at The Rutland County Showground. From The Rutland Showground, His Royal Highness travelled a short distance into Oakham to meet representatives of local charity ‘For Rutland,’ which raises funds to provide free advice and support for people living with long-term health conditions. Next, His Royal Highness was invited to meet representatives from Rutland-based business The Woolroom and

journeyed to Exton-based Hambleton Bakery to meet the company’s owners and discuss the importance of locally-based farming and food businesses.

School’s in fine voice... ACTORS FROM OAKHAM PUT ON A SHOWSTOPPING PERFORMANCE OF HIT MUSICAL

The Duke’s trip to Rutland culminated in a visit to Uppingham, where His Royal Highness stopped at the Falcon Hotel and to the town’s Community College

where Principal Ben Solly invited him to plant a tree in the school’s garden. The Duke was accompanied by Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness. n

OAKHAM Talented drama students from Oakham brought the old Hollywood classic to life at the School’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre for an audience of friends, family, and members of the local community. In one of the biggest casts the school has ever seen, the production was a roaring success, with each musical number and dance routine wowing the audience. Whilst the classic song ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ hit all of the right notes with the audience, other musical numbers such as ‘Good Morning’ and ‘All I Do is Dream of You’

went down a storm, with the impressive choreography and vocals each ending in minutes of applause. Throughout each show, all of the students impressed the audience with their acting, singing and dancing skills, whilst the set, lighting and production were professionally executed. The production was supported by many departments at the School, including Oakham School Music, who performed alongside the cast with a really fantastic band made up of pupils and staff. n See www.oakham.rutland.sch.uk.

RUTLAND-MELTON CiCLE CLASSIC IN APRIL

RUTLAND The local economy will enjoy a £250,000 boost in spring thanks to the return of the Rutland CiCLE race, taking place in April for the first time since 2019. The event was founded by Wymondham resident Colin Clews in 2005 and remains a popular international event for cycling teams and riders, despite having been cancelled in 2020 and 2021. The 16th event in CiCLE’s history will take place on Sunday 24th April and will

provide a boost for the hospitality and tourism sectors who will take care of competitors and spectators. “We’re really pleased that the race is able to move forward once more in so many respects,” says Colin. “Certainly the race should, as always, offer a strong boost to the local economy during race weekend.” The event will also feature a new sprint award for the first cyclist to cross the Rutland border at Teigh. n

Nine Awards for Agents UK PROPERTY AWARDS WERE A SUCCESSFUL NIGHT FOR STAMFORD AND RUTLAND’S FINE & COUNTRY...

Stamford locomotive to remain in Rutland COTTESMORE The steam locomotive Rutland will remain in the county thanks to a fundraising effort by the Cottesmore based Rocks by Rail ironstone museum. The locomotive was built in 1927 and worked in the county before ‘retiring’ to East Sussex’s Bluebell Railway in East Sussex. It was later loaned to the museum but a £5,000 fundraising effort has resulted in the purchase of the engine, securing its future in Rutland. n

LINCOLN Fine & Country Rutland, Stamford and South Lincolnshire walked away with nine awards at the United Kingdom Property Awards. The office won awards for its marketing and for its single agency work in Rutland, Lincolnshire and the UK. Jan von Draczek, Director of the agency said: “We are thrilled to be recognised for our hard work and dedication over the past year. These awards are a culmination of our efforts throughout the last 12 months and a symbol of our commitment to excellence and achieving the best possible outcome for all of our clients.” n

£2,000,000

Rutland race returns

STAMFORD & RUTLAND The Greater Lincolnshire Enterprise Partnership has £2m funding for businesses in Stamford & Rutland which are developing environmentally friendly business innovations. The Clean Growth Accelerator Fund aims to support innovation and R&D when businesses are decarbonising their operations and making efforts to counter climate change. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief OAKHAM x

New yoga studio is bending over backwards to provide classes... If you’d like to enjoy the benefits of yoga – core strength, flexibility, stress reduction and weight loss – The Loft is a new yoga and pilates studio open above Sigma Cycles in Oakham. Owner Tash Davidson says that opening the studio is a life-long dream following 20 years as a pilates instructor. She said: “I’ve been teaching for many years and have long been aware of the need for a yoga centre in Rutland. “I’m really excited to be able to offer a place of peace and tranquillity and can’t wait to see everyone enjoying classes in such an amazing space.” n 9

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NEWS & EVENTS

Will’s Walks are back for 2022...

21 WALKS AROUND STAMFORD AND RUTLAND IN AUTHOR’S SECOND BOOK STAMFORD & RUTLAND Following the success of his first edition, Will’s Walks is back with another 21 walks around Stamford and Rutland. The second edition is available from Walkers Bookshop on Stamford high street and in local shops. In the second edition of this popular book from last year, writer Will Hetherington selects 21 more of his favourite walks around the Stamford and Rutland area. From the imposing Harringworth viaduct in the west to the tranquil charms of the Fenland edge in the east, the region is bursting with great places to explore, and this 68-page guide is designed to unlock some hidden gems. The guide is split into three categories; up to four miles, between four and six miles, and six miles plus. “I was born in Stamford and I love the area. Whether

LOCAL NEWS In Brief

WORKING WITH LOTS OF GRIT AND DETERMINATION

Rutland County Council’s Highways Service say they’re working hard this winter and will be hitting the roads, and gritting the roads, to make sure the public are safe this winter. The council is working with Tarmac who will be gritting major A and B roads in the area to ensure motorists are driving in the safest possible conditions. n

it’s the rolling hills around Oakham and Uppingham or the flatter fields out to the east, there is an abundant variety of walking in peaceful woodlands or along the banks of gurgling streams. With two labradors to exercise there aren’t many paths around here that we haven’t walked down, and it’s a pleasure to share what I have discovered.” The first edition of Will’s Walks was a runaway success through online sales, and particularly through a network of local stores. Jenny Pugh, General Manager of stockist Walkers Bookshops, said: “Will’s Walks has been a terrific success during the last 12 months; a really informative guide to local walks. It has certainly helped encourage the local community to stay active during the strange year in which we found ourselves.” n Will’s Walks is available to purchase for £8.95.

Planting for the future... TREES HAVE BEEN PLANTED ACROSS THE DISTRICT BY COUNCIL TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL TREE WEEK

STAMFORD More than 50 native trees have gone into the ground in Stamford, Bourne and Market Deeping. Cllr Kelham Cooke, the Leader of South Kesteven District Council, launched the celebration by planting four silver birch and six rowan trees. “We have allocated our £20,000 climate change reserve fund towards increasing tree cover, which delivers as part of our wider ambitions regarding the challenges we face,” he says. “This is a valuable step forward, establishing attractive new plantations in each of our towns and creating new wildlife habitats.” n

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LITTLE BYTHAM, LINCOLNSHIRE Guide Price £1,300,000

In the undulating rural landscape of South Lincolnshire stands a former farmhouse, now a superb four bedroomed family home on approx. 8 acres (stms). The stone barn to the rear has been converted into a splendid annex containing a swimming pool. The equestrian facilities are excellent - the large, corrugated barns have been transformed internally to incorporate three Monarch stables. Another barn provides plenty of storage, and grazing is around six acres, fenced by post and rail. There is also a 40 x 20 menage laid with silica sand and topped with rubber. The corrugated barns also include three internal garages, one with a lift for easy maintenance of vehicles, and one with a built-in dehumidifier for specialist sports cars. Viewing is essential to appreciate the calibre of garages and workshop space, as well as the stabling – no expense has been spared either in the stone barn and pool area or in this domain.

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

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

fineandcountry.com

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POLEBROOK, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE Offers in Excess of £1,100,000

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

In a village just east of Oundle, a fine, stone property dates back to the 1700s with well-kept outbuildings, a heated swimming pool, and in total, almost ten acres of land. Generally a light and airy house due to the large windows, it is a blend of quaintness, grandeur and more modern living with exposed stone walls and timber beams and touches of modernity in the conservatory.Not only does the house offer vast amounts of storage, but so too do the outbuildings. The L-shaped block, in front of which is a substantial area for parking, is divided into a large double garage with a connecting room at one end. On the other side are further rooms and stables. The heated swimming pool occupies the area behind the stables with garden views which is a very private and sheltered spot.The first paddock, reached from the gravel drive, is completely fenced and around an acre. Two more fields of pasture connected by gates are further beyond, amounting to over eight more acres.

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Guide Price £220,000

Guide Price £230,000

Somercott Cottage, Caldecott

Grove Cottage, Somerby

A delightful two-bedroom Grade II listed iron-stone cottage that has been sympathetically renovated throughout to retain its character, in a village location close to the historical market town of Uppingham.

A characterful three-bedroom end of terrace property, fully renovated and immaculately presented throughout, positioned in an elevated position with open countryside views.

Offers In Excess of £300,000

Guide Price £360,000

Cedar Close, Uppingham

Kings Road, Oakham

A detached two-bedroom bungalow in need of modernisation throughout, sitting on a manageable plot and located within walking distance of Uppingham town centre.

This is a truly unique opportunity to purchase a ground-breaking three bedroom property with forward-thinking technology, strong eco-credentials and is one of the very ﬁrst ICF constructed homes in Rutland, within walking distance to Oakham.

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD CHURCHES

SIMPLY DIVINE This month we’re looking at a few of the most historically, culturally or architecturally signiﬁcant churches in Rutland, Stamford and Peterborough... Words: Rob Davis.

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD CHURCHES

n All Saints Church, Oakham...

TOGETHER WITH OAKHAM CASTLE and Oakham School, All Saints Church is perhaps the oldest building in the town. The first building on the site dated back to around 1200 but much of the building we see today was the result of a dramatic transformation in the 1400s. For this reason All Saints is considered to be perpendicular gothic in style – the later of three periods in English Gothic architecture which as its name suggests makes extensive use of both vertical and horizontal designs in the church’s tracery and panelling. Retained from the original building and dating back to the 13th century are the doorway, porch, and north chapel arcade. The font was also created using original stonework, albeit with a much later timber cover. The look of All Saints remained largely consistent until the 19th century. That’s because it was in 1857 that George Gilbert Scott was invited to restore the building. Scott was heavily inspired by Pugin who died just before Scott began working in Oakham. At that time he had been working

as the lead architect for Westminster Abbey – a role which had been established a couple of hundred year earlier – for eight years. During his work on Oakham All Saints Scott would also be working to finesse his designs for the government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on King Charles Street, construction of which began in 1861. Scott’s work included creating a new east chancel window, restoration of the porch, new lighting and high quality woodwork parclose screens. He removed the galleries, pews, and renewed the floor. The gables of the chancel and north chapel were taken down and rebuilt, new roofs were erected over the chancel and south chapel, and the roof was restored. The parish church’s Grade I listed status is justified by Scott’s input into its architecture, but also the intricately designed capitals – animals, birds, figures, foliage and scenes from the Bible – which on the north side are influenced by pagan origins in Christianity such as the ‘Green Man’ which was a pre-Christian symbol of rebirth. n

Left: Oakham’s All Saints is one of the most architecturally significant churches in the area thanks in part to the work of English Gothic Revivalist architect George Gilbert Scott.

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Left: Peterborough Cathedral by Clare Louise Jackson. Below: The modern hanging cross was designed by George Pace in 1975, with the figure of Jesus sculpted by Frank Roper.

n Peterborough Cathedral... YOU’LL POINT OUT, quite correctly too, that Peterborough Cathedral is located neither in Rutland nor in Stamford. Alright, we admit it. However, we’ll justify this magnificent building’s place in our ecclesiastical chart as it’s the Mother Church of Rutland, because of its historical connections to Tudor England as the burial place of Katherine of Aragon, first wife of Henry VIII... and also because the Cathedral is such a welcoming and inclusive environment. The team are tremendously forward-thinking in the respect of bringing events into the Cathedral. Recently, Chapterhouse Theatre performed A Christmas Carol in the nave and earlier in 2021 the Cathedral hosted Luke Jerram’s huge scale model of the moon. In 2022, the team is planning a magnificent summer exhibition which will see large-scale dinosaurs unleashed on the public, in the nave, bringing palaeontology to life! n 23

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD CHURCHES

n St Peter & St Paul, Uppingham... IN THE HEART of the town of Uppingham, you can gain access to St Peter and St Paul’s church via its north porch, squeezed between the busy shops, inns and cafés. Most of the church dates back to 14th century although there was a major renovation in 1861. There are remains of the previous Norman church that once stood where the church is today with two sculptured fragments flanking the doorway. Uppingham church offers a wide range of Sunday and weekday services within the varying Anglican tradition. Uppingham’s church’s place in our list is justified thanks to its pretty architecture, and its four small Norman demi-figures representing Christ blessing, a saint blessing and two angels. They were each rediscovered during work in the C19 and are now placed either side of the south door and the east window of the north chapel. n

n St Andrews Lyddington... TODAY, those travelling across the length and breadth of Britain are accustomed to overnight stays in roadside motels. Unfortunately, just after the Norman Conquest, Premier Inns were scarce to say the least. That’s why, just after creating the Diocese of Lincoln – which at the time stretched right down to London – William I also created a series of Bishop’s Palaces, of which 14 remain. One of those was in Lyddington, and it was used as such until 1547 when it passed to the Crown and then into the possession of the Cecils of Burghley. After that, the building we now know as Lyddington’s Bede House was used as a hospital and later a charitable almshouse until the 1930s. The adjacent St Andrew’s Church was created in the 1300s on the site of an original building, and has close ties with the Bede House. An unusual feature is acoustic jars in the walls to amplify the priests’ voice. n Above: St Peter & St Paul, Uppingham. Above and Right: St Andrews Lyddington and the Bede House. Top: St Matthews Church... rather better known as Normanton Church.

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n Normanton Church... IT’S THE MOST FAMOUS LANDMARK in Rutland, but though everyone knows Normanton Church as such, few realise that its actual name is St Matthew’s Church. The building replaced an earlier structure – perhaps dating from the mid-1500s – and was a parish church right up until the 18th century, whereupon a large area of land around the building was cleared to create a new residence for the wealthy Heathcote Baronets, who relocated the villagers to Empingham. The family built St Matthew’s as their private chapel and used it until 1920 when they departed the area for Stocken Hall. The church was abandoned until the 1960s, whereupon it was restored and used once again. Its future was threatened by the creation of Rutland Water but locals fought to save it. The building was deconsecrated in 1970. n

The Remains of Normanton

St Matthew’s Church, Normanton Church colloquially, is all that now remains of Sir Gilbert Heathcote’s Normanton Hall, which was demolished in 1925.

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RUTLAND & STAMFORD CHURCHES

By the 13th century, Stamford was one of England’s 10 largest towns and had a castle, 14 churches, two monasteries and four friaries. That’s why the town still has so many churches, relative to its size and population...

St Peter’s, Stamford...

All Saints Church...

St Mary’s, Stamford...

WE’LL START OFF with a church you won’t have visited... the Domesday Book names St Peter’s Church on St Peter’s Hill as one of the town’s only churches. The town’s growing prosperity between 1100 and 1200 saw many new churches created, and this perhaps led to the neglect of St Peter’s. In 1461 the Lancastrian army severely damaged the church and it was pulled down in 1560, merging with All Saint’s Church. n

LOCATED in Red Lion Square, Stamford’s All Saints Church was created on the grounds of an existing building and it’s thought that a church existed on the site going right back to Saxon times. All Saints was originally a satellite church to St Peters, but when the latter was considered beyond repair in the 1500s, All Saints became a place of worship for the two amalgamated congregations. n

WE CAN THANK a famous Stamfordian, the antiquarian William Stukeley, for saving St Mary’s Church, which is rather a mix of ages and styles. The church was built in the 12th century, the tower in the 13th century and the spire in the 14th century. The latter was in danger of collapse before Stukeley intervened and insisted that it should be repaired in 1741. At the time, Stukeley was a vicar in the town, albeit at All Saints. n

St Martin’s Church...

St George’s Church...

ST MARTIN’S CHURCH was, at one time, a bit of an outsider. That’s because when Stamford was a walled town (from about 1135 to 1461), St Martin’s was outside of the perimeter. For that reason it was part of the Peterborough Diocese, not Lincoln, in 1541 when the former was created. It was returned to the Diocese of Lincoln in 1990. Replacing a 12th century building, St Martin’s current stonework dates from 1485 to 1494. n

HOME TO STAMFORD’S evangelical church community, St George’s was also created in the 12th century, but much of what remains of the church dates back to the 13th century or later. Perpendicular in origin, it was then restored in the 1800s by Edward Browning, who also created Stamford’s Town Bridge and many of the buildings on St Mary’s Hill. At this time, the church’s current organ, vestry and pews were also installed. n

St Michael’s, Stamford...

St John the Baptist...

St Leonard’s Priory...

DISASTER STRUCK Stamford’s Church of St Michael’s in 1832 when alternative pillars in the church were removed, leading to the collapse of the church and its tower, which itself had only seen the replacement of a timber tower with one created in stone in 1761. Work on the construction of the new, current building began in 1835, but it’s believe that there has been a church on the site since the 1100s. n

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST’S CHURCH is a redundant Anglican church in the centre of the town. It is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade I listed building, and is under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. The church originated in the 12th century, the rest of the church and was completed in 1451. It was declared redundant in 2003, though more repairs have been carried out since. n

ST LEONARD’S PRIORY, was supposedly built on the site on a monastery which was founded by St Wilfrid in 657 and destroyed in the Danish invasion. Later it was jointly refounded by William the Conqueror and the Bishop of Durham in 1082 and remained a cell of Durham until its dissolution in 1538. The site of St Leonard’s Priory is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and the structure is a also a Grade I listed building. n

Above: St John the Baptist has 12th century origins but is mostly 15th century in construction. Right: All Saints Church, image by Matt Rakowski.

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FAMOUS IN STAMFORD

STAMFORD’S

MOST FAMOUS RESIDENTS As three of the town’s most famous ﬁgures – Colin Dexter, ‘Jack’ Pick and Harry Burton – are set to be honoured with blue plaques from Stamford’s Civic Society, we look at a few of the residents who have achieved great things after growing up in the town... Above: William Cecil, Stamford’s famous son.

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FAMOUS IN STAMFORD

Crime & Punishment Colin Dexter is the mild-mannered Stamford author and creator of the character immortalised by John Thaw, DCI Endeavour Morse. Though the character is more commonly associated with the city of dreaming spires, Stamford was the author’s true inspiration... “Lewis!” just hearing the name ‘Morse’ is enough to have any self-respecting fan of crime dramas mimicking DCI Endeavour Morse’s scornful ticking off of that long-suffering Detective Sergeant, Robbie Lewis. Author Colin Dexter was unpretentious, down-toEarth and modest about his achievements, but undoubtedly he also possessed a towering intellect despite coming from a fairly humble background. Stamfordian Colin Dexter was born in 1930 to father Alfred – who drove a taxi in the town and had Dexter’s Garage on the town’s Scotgate having left school at 12 – and to housewife Dorothy Dexter, nee Towns, who had also left school at 12. Because Colin’s parents were unable to continue their education, both were determined that he and his older brother John – who later became a teacher in Classics at The King’s School in Peterborough – should be able to pursue their studies. The boys were let off helping with jobs around the house but were expected to study rigorously. That’s probably why both were awarded scholarships to the town’s independent school. Upon leaving school, Colin completed national service with the Royal Corps of Signals... as a Morse Code operator. Some have speculated that this is where his most famous character derived his name, but in fact, the character was named after Sir Jeremy Morse, who, like Colin, was a keen crossword enthusiast and a fan of cryptic clues. 30

Norman ‘Colin’ Dexter

Author and creator of DCI Morse BORN: 29th Sep 1930. DIED: 21st Mar 2017. FAMILY: One brother, John; one sister, Avril. Parents were Alfred & Dorothy Dexter. EDUCATION: Stamford’s Boys’ School; Christ’s College Cambridge. BIG BREAK: Published the first of 13 Morse novels in 1975. ACHIEVEMENTS: 13 Morse novels, 33 TV Morse screenplays, spin-off series of Lewis and Endeavour, OBE. n

Colin excelled at studying English literature and eventually won a scholarship, not to Oxford, but to Christ’s College Cambridge where he studied Classics. Colin became a teacher and cared greatly about his pupils’ academic achievements, teaching in Loughborough and Leicester, then becoming head of classics at Corby’s Grammar School by his mid-30s, about five years after he had married Dorothy Cooper, with whom he would have two children. Colin was warned that like his grandparents, uncle and father, he would probably lose his hearing, and despite professing for the rest of his life that he was a teacher at heart, not an author or academic, he reluctantly pursued a career as an exam invigilator and marker, a role which required him to move to Oxford, where the University Board was based. When Colin was in his mid-40s, the academic took his family on holiday to Wales. It rained relentlessly, and so to fill the time, Colin sat down and began to write a book, reasoning that the crime novels he’d read weren’t all that great. His lead character was named Morse and the novel proved popular almost immediately. It yielded 12 more, and then 33 episodes of a TV drama too, which itself was a huge success thanks to the portrayal of the character of Morse by John Thaw and Lewis’s portrayal by Kevin Wheatley, who would later star in the spin-off, Lewis. Dexter was also be honoured with an OBE in 2002 and will have a blue plaque dedicated to him in Stamford in 2022. n

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FAMOUS IN STAMFORD

A Driving Force in Stamford If you’ve ever despaired at queuing traffic in Stamford, you’d be forgiven for dreaming of an era when the town was traffic-free, although Stamfordian and motor car pioneer John (Jack) Henry Pick was only too happy to introduce the cars to the town’s roads... Today’s headlines reveal that the British car industry is being hit by problems arising from a shortage of semiconductors. Wouldn’t have been an issue in Pick’s day... though admittedly the motor pioneer would have struggled to contribute meaningfully to Britain’s pre-pandemic production of 1.3m cars. Jack Pick was born in autumn 1866 and was the son of Robert Pick and his wife Catherine. He became a blacksmith and lived on Tenter Lane in the town with wife Emily, who was born in nearby Clipsham, and their daughter Eunice. Jack worked for the engineering company Blackstone & Co, which was founded in 1889 and made farm implements, having been formed from the Rutland Ironworks company as a subsidiary. As an aside, the company would later specialise in oil and diesel engines under various names, from Lister Blackstone, the Associated British Oil Engine Company, and finally Hawker Siddeley, Ruston, and Alsthom, each of which were finally consolidated into MAN Diesel, which still manufactures HGVs. As for Jack, he left the business in 1896 and went into business with A J Pledger, which still exists today, supplying horseshoes to farriers. Pick & Pledger made bicycles and created a mechanised form of transport in 1899 at Pick’s engineering works on the corner of St Leonard’s Street and Brazenose Lane.

John (Jack) Henry Pick Local Motor Car Pioneer BORN: 1866. DIED: 1954. EARLY LIFE: Born in Stamford the son of Robert Pick, a Butcher, and his wife Catherine. EARLY CAREER: Worked for Blackstone & Co making farming implements such as a mechanised plough. PICK MOTORS: Jack produced a number of vehicles from 1898 to 1923. Pictured opposite is his 1901 4hp front engined car. Press advert left shows the 6hp and 10hp variations from 1902 and 1903. Later cars reached 12-18hp (1908-1912) and 22.5hp (1923) but a tax on vehicles per horsepower devised by the RAC in 1910 rendered these commercially unsuccessful. n

Pick’s first car was known as the Voiturette and two were sold locally for £85 (about £11,600 today) to Dr Benson of Market Deeping and to the 5th Marquess of Exeter, William Thomas Brownlow Cecil. By 1904, the Stamford Mercury visited the works and discovered that 50 cars were under construction, ranging from 4hp to 24hp, and that the business was employing over 100 men. That year, the business relocated to High Street St Martins, opposite The George Hotel, and the company interacted with a few other engineering firms in the town who also provided components. Jack soon developed a new chassis for his vehicles and designated those vehicles New Picks to differentiate them. He created two and four seat versions as well as racing cars, but remained an engineer, rather than a businessman, and left the running of the company to partners like Charles Gray. However, Jack also insisted on creating high-powered, larger cars when companies like Austin & Morris were making smaller cars. With a new tax on horsepower (£1/hp) in 1910, and a post-war recession, Jack had no choice but to fold the business in 1923. n 33

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FAMOUS IN STAMFORD

Digging up the Past... The excavation of the Tomb of Tutankhamun is probably the most important moment in Egyptology and certainly the most important discovery in archaeology from the 20th century. Who on earth would want the responsibility of capturing the moment? Stamford born photographer Harry Burton was definitely up for the challenge! The discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun was definitely the most important for archaeologists in the 20th century, and the historian leading the exhibition, Howard Carter, knew that the first and most important task was to capture the exact moment.

Harry Burton

Photography had been invented about a century before in 1826 by Niépce and by Louis Daguerre who developed what know as the precursor to the modern chemical photographic process.

BORN: 13th Sep 1879.

Harry Burton was born about 50 years later in Stamford, the son of a cabinet maker and one of 11 children. In his teens he worked for Robert Cust, an art historian based in Florence who employed Harry to catalogue his collection. Whilst based in Tuscany, Harry met Theodore Davis, who excavated a number of ancient Egyptian tombs. Davis would employ Harry Burton when Cust returned to Britain in 1910, and when the former relinquished his excavation permit, Harry worked with the Metropolitan Museum of Art as their official photographer, especially on excavations around Thebes (today’s Luxor). Interestingly, Davis had uncovered a site believed to be related to the young Pharaoh Tutankhamun in 1907, but declared it to be ‘exhausted.’ Howard Carter believed otherwise and pursued an excavation funded by Lord Carnarvon. The site was known as KV62 and on 4th November 1922, a young water boy tripped over a stone which turned out to be a staircase into the tomb. Carter sent a telegram to Carnarvon who arrived a month later. 34

Egyptologist DIED: 27th Jun 1940. EARLY LIFE: Born in Stamford on what is now Burley Lane to cabinet maker William Burton and mother Ann, nee Hufton from Billinghay. EDUCATION: Possibly sponsored by Robert Henry Hobart Cust, brother to the heir of Belton House. ACHIEVEMENTS: Photographing 3,400 objects from the tomb of Tutankhamun alongside Howard Carter from 1922 as well as taking 7,500 photos of other sites and artefacts. n

Harry Burton, Left.

He also insisted that Harry Burton was brought in as photographer, on secondment from the Metropolitan Museum’s team who were working nearby. They could hardly refuse, and from 27th December 1922, Harry Burton took over 3,400 photographs of the excavation, even borrowing a motion picture camera from Samuel Goldwyn to record the discovery. Harry’s photographs were believed to be the best quality photographic records possible at the time and despite having a home in Florence and being married to Minnie Catherine Young from 1914, he remained active in his work until his death in 1940. He returned to Stamford often and remained good friends with Howard Carter for the rest of his life too. n

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The tomb of Tutankhamun.

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FAMOUS IN STAMFORD

The three famous Stamfordians we’ve featured so far will be honoured with blue plaques in 2022, but the town has yielded many other famous figures... Eleanor of Castile...

William Cecil...

William Stukeley...

WHEN EDWARD I was betrothed to Eleanor of Castile, their marriage was politically motivated, designed to affirm English sovereignty over Gascony. However they formed a genuinely close bond and by all accounts, Edward adored Eleanor. Her death in Harby in 1290 saw a grief-stricken Edward I create a number of crosses – including one in Stamford – at each point on her journey back to London, where she was buried. n

WILLIAM CECIL, first Baron Burghley, was born in Bourne September 1520, the son of Sir Richard Cecil, whose father had risen to favour under Henry VIII. Initially the young William Cecil was in the service of the Duke of Somerset and Earl of Warwick. He was then later instructed by the Duke of Northumberland to attend to the estates of Princess Elizabeth, and soon became her trusted advisor, Secretary of State and her treasurer. n

THE ANTIQUARIAN William Stukeley was a true polymath; an archeologist, physician and Anglican clergyman. He was born in Holbeach, but moved to Stamford after retiring from life in London, when his work studying the ancient Celts was ridiculed. In June 1729 he took on the benefice of Stamford All Saints – having noticed that it was both vacant and wealthy – remaining there until his death in 1765. n

Daniel Lambert...

Malcolm Sargent, musician...

WHEN DANIEL LAMBERT was born in 1770, attitudes were somewhat different, to say the least, towards people’s physical appearance. The Leicester gaol-keeper had reached a weight of over 50 stone by 1805 despite being athletically active. The closure of his gaol in 1805 forced him to exhibit himself, and the frequent visitor to Stamford died in the town’s Waggon & Horses on the High Street coaching inn in June 1809. n

BORN IN APRIL 1895, Sir Harold Malcolm Watts Sargent was the elder child of coal merchant Edward and Agnes Sargent. Studying at Stamford School he joined a local operatic society, and wrote a piece for Sir Henry Wood when the latter visited Leicester’s De Montfort Hall. From 1920 he was one of Britain’s best-known composers, chief conductor of the Proms from 1947 and co-founder of the London Philharmonic. n

David, Lord Burghley...

Colin Furze, inventor...

Rae Earl, writer...

DAVID, LORD BURGHLEY, the 6th Marquess of Exeter was athletic to say the least, and whilst completing his education at Eton and Cambridge’s Magdalene College, he competed in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Burghley went on to compete in the 1928 Olympics in the Netherlands, in the Commonwealth games of 1930, and in LA in 1932 in the 4 x 400m relay... oh, and he also brought the Burghley Horse Trials to Stamford, too. n

AS LONG as you don’t ask ‘why?’ then Colin Furze is a genius. Not only a genius, but an inventor, and a very successful one, too. An underground bunker at his home in Stamford? A 70mph mobility scooter? The world’s fastest pram? A giant Star Wars AT-AT in the garden? All Colin’s handiwork. The bona fide local celebrity has over 11.4m subscribers on his YouTube channel and is a popular TV personality and stuntman. n

BORN IN 1971, author Rae Earl used her own childhood in Stamford as a reference for her characters’ experiences of growing up lacking confidence. A copywriter and local radio presenter, her big break was in writing the 2007 book My Fat, Mad Teenage Diary which was based in part on her own diaries. The book follows 16-year old Rachel’s struggles with body image and mental health, and a screenplay of it was screened on E4 in 2013. n

Left: William Stukeley. Inset: David Cecil, 6th Marquess of Exeter and Lord Burghley.

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Nurturing

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The Finest

AS THE RAIN LASHED DOWN in Stamford, it was a pretty bleak day, a bit grey and gloomy, quite a contrast to the temperament and character of the town we all know and love.

When Adrian Hill founded his first fine art gallery in Norfolk back in 2003, it was with a view to making art accessible to all and raising the profile of some of the country’s newest and best talent...

“The idea is to provide access to great paintings right in the heart of Stamford,” says Adrian. “Access to art isn’t a privilege, it’s a right; one that everyone should be able to enjoy. A really good gallery isn’t simply a retailer of art, it’s an ambassador for talent, and for that reason we always welcome people into each of our galleries to find out more about the artists whose work we display.”

ART Words: Rob Davis.

Happily, there was climatic and cultural respite in the form of a visit to Adrian Hill Fine Art in the Mews just adjacent to The George of Stamford. Adrian and his family’s original Holt gallery in Norfolk is 50 years old and originally specialised in framing before exhibiting art from up and coming British artists. The first gallery was joined by a second, specialising in fine art, in 2013 and the third, a fine gallery in Stamford, was founded in August 2020.

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ADRIAN HILL FINE ART

“To be able to come into Stamford and see work by some of the profession’s most well-known names is, we believe, a very special experience. In one area of the gallery there are lithographic prints by Lowry, and elsewhere by David Hockney, whose modern media is the iPad, which he uses to produce digital sketches in limited numbers.” “Alongside those artists is Nick Grove, a very talented local artist whose en plein air work includes pieces which celebrate Stamford itself, as well as neighbouring counties like Cambridge and the North Norfolk coast.” “We really do adopt a policy of welcoming visitors to enjoy our work and it’s been a little frustrating over the past couple of years that our ability to host our usual programme of

events hasn’t been able to proceed, because in ordinary times we really enjoy being able to introduce visitors to the art, engage with them, invite many of the artists themselves along and really encourage visitors and clients to understand the artist behind the work.” “In the gallery right now you’ll find pieces by Rosa Sepple, a self-taught artist who is also the First Female President of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours in January 2017. Her work is whimsical, colourful and optimistic, bursting with vitality and idiosyncratic primary colours.” “Elsewhere, Peter Wileman is a landscape artist whose oil paintings are characterised by a highly expressive, painterly technique.”

“To be able to come into Stamford and see work by some of the profession’s most well-known names is, we believe, a very special experience...”

Opposite: Rosa Sepple, Show Stoppers, 30” x 40”. Above/Left: Thames Low Tide, Oil on Board, 20” x 30”.

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ADRIAN HILL FINE ART

>> “Peter enjoys an enviable reputation and his outstanding work has been recognised with various awards. He’s a past President and Fellow of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, a Member of the Royal Society of Marine Artists, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.” “Recently we’ve introduced to the gallery Kieron Williamson, who is one of the world’s youngest and most internationally-known artists. Kieron produces landscapes, cityscapes and seascapes including those from nearby North Norfolk. He’s one of the artists we’ll celebrated once we’re able to invite people back into the galleries properly with a solo exhibition.” “As well as providing access to art, we provide UK-wide delivery using specialists who can safely transport and hang work. We also provide access to the Own Art scheme which provides interest-free finance to help bring art into your home. A great gallery – a really great gallery – will want to join you in your journey to appreciate, learn about and curate your own collection of fine art. That’s why we’re keener than ever to celebrate the talent we have and to help more people to visit us to experience and enjoy our artists’ work for themselves.” Find Out More: Adrian Hill Fine Art is based in The Mews at The George Hotel, Stamford PE9 2LB and Lees Yard, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HS. Call 01263 713883 or 01780 480800 or see www.adrianhillfineart.com.

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Opposite: Peter Wileman, Estuary Anchorage, 39.5” x 39.5”. Lawrence Stephen Lowry, The Old Junk Man, 10” x 13”. Above: David Hockney, Untitled No 281 My Window Edition B, 17” X 13”.

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

Laurance Stephen Lowry | The Viaduct | Signed Lithograph Print | 19″ x 24″

5-8 The Mews • The George Hotel • Stamford • PE9 2LB Tuesday - Sunday from 11am to 5pm | 01780 480800 Also at Lees Yard • Holt • Norfolk | Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm | 01263 713883 Please visit the website to view and purchase our artworks

w w w. a d r i a n h i l l f i n e a r t . c o m 44

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On... LEICESTER

STAMFORD

FRIDAY 11th FEBRUARY

SATURDAY 5th FEBRUARY

FASCINATING AIDA

IAN ASHPITEL AND JONTY STEPHENS AS... ERIC & ERN

A very cheeky trio of ladies in fine voice. Topical and hilarious songs galore. n From 7.30pm, tickets £26 at DeMontfort Hall, 0116 2333111 or see www.demontforthall.co.uk.

For all the family from eight to 108 Eric & Ern is a brilliant homage to Morecambe and Wise crammed full of those famous comedy sketches, from Grieg’s Piano concerto to the making breakfast skit. From the Olivier Award nominated duo Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens, this super show evokes memories of a time when whole families would huddle around the telly. Morecambe and Wise’s most loved routines, in a show that hits all the right notes... and in the right order, too.

LEICESTER

SUNDAY 13th FEB

AN INTERVIEW WITH PAM EYRES

n Stamford Corn Exchange, 7.30pm, tickets £22.50. Call 01780 766455 or see www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

It’s good to talk in Stamford

HISTORIAN PHILIPPA MASSEY PRESENTS HER FASCINATING TALK ABOUT THE HISTORY OF LOCAL COMMUNICATION

STAMFORD

TUESDAY 15th FEBRUARY

A HISTORY OF LOCAL COMMUNICATIONS Local historian Philippa Massey looks at the need for knowledge to be passed among people, and how technology created new and different ways of passing information. Her talk ranges from speech, through writing, publishing, and the postal system, to electronic communications such as telegrams, telephones and today’s computers, email and on-line conferencing. n Tickets £6, 7.30pm, Stamford Arts Centre, call 01780 763203.

Pam Ayres has been making the nation laugh for almost five decades, through both her radio and many appearances on Just A Minute, and on Desert Island Discs. Recent appearances on TV include Countdown, Would I Lie To You, & her own series on Channel 5. For this event she will chat with Leicester Comedy Festival’s Founding Director Geoff Rowe about how she got started and developed her career. n Tickets £10-£22.50, Curve Theatre, 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk. LEICESTER

SATURDAY 26th FEB

CLIVE ANDERSON: ME, MACBETH AND I The host of Whose Line is it Anyway, Loose Ends and Talks Back takes to the road with this much-anticipated first ever solo tour, in a one-man show guaranteed to be funnier than the Bard’s greatest tragedy. n Tickets £16-£18, Curve Theatre, 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

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

PETERBOROUGH

EXTON

TUESDAY 22nd FEBRUARY

FRIDAY 4th MARCH SATURDAY 5th MARCH

FIREDANCE

PETERBOROUGH

MONDAY 28th FEBRUARY

SIR RANULPH FIENNES – LIVING DANGEROUSLY

Named by the Guinness Book of Records as ‘the world’s greatest living explorer,’ amongst Sir Ranulph Fiennes many record-breaking achievements, he was the first to reach both Poles, the first to cross the Antarctic and Arctic Ocean,

and the first to circumnavigate the world along its polar axis. In Living Dangerously, Sir Ranulph offers a personal journey through his life, from his early years to the present day. Living Dangerously spans Sir Ranulph’s childhood and school misdemeanours, his army life and his expeditions. n £32.50, from 7.30pm, at The Cresset, Peterborough. Call 01733 265705 or see www.cresset.co.uk.

Rutland’s Lunch for Even Less HALF A DOZEN OF THE AREA’S RESTAURANTS HAVE TEAMED UP TO OFFER GREAT VALUE LUNCHES...

If you’re a fan of Strictly, you’ll love this! Professional dancers Gorka Marquez and Karen Hauer, will ignite audiences in 2022. From the Argentine Tango to the Flamenco to contemporary dance styles via a more than passable Paso Doble and from Samba to Salsa. Expect hot pulsing beats, seductive choreography and passion that will take your breath away. With live Latin musicians and a dynamic dance ensemble. A seductive dance experience you strictly won’t want to miss. n From 7.30pm, tickets from £36, at New Theatre, Peterborough, PE1 1RS. Call 01733 852992 or see newtheatre-peterborough.com. RUTLAND Each year, half a dozen of the area’s provide great value dining during lunchtime service to help lift locals’ spirits and to provide a boost to a traditionally quiet time of year in the hospitality industry... n Hitchen’s Barn will participate from Tuesday 18th January until Saturday 2nd April, with two courses for £18.95 and a third course for £4 (01572 722255). n Hambleton Hall offers two courses for £34.50 (third course £7.50), from Monday 10th January to Friday 25th February (01572 756991).

FOR RUTLAND IN RUTLAND’S 2022 GOOD & NEW SALE One of Rutland’s most popular fundraising event takes place early next month, the 2022 Good & New Sale, at Exton’s Barnsdale Lodge. For the uninitiated, the event sees quality pre-loved clothes including a terrific number of high end designer brands, plus shoes and accessories available to purchase with proceeds going towards funding advisors in the county based at Rutland’s Citizens’ Advice Centre. The charity is accepting donations all months and the sale itself will begin with a ticketed VIP preview event. n See www.forrutland.org.uk or call 07710 873811. n The King’s Arms, Wing, provides two courses or £18 (third course £4) from Thurs 27th January to Saturday 26th March (01572 737634). n The Olive Branch offers two courses for £21, (third course for £6), Wed 19th January to Saturday 12th March (01780 410355). n Burrough on the Hill’s Stag & Hounds provides two courses for £19, third £4, from Wed 26th Jan to Friday 11th March (01664 454250). n The Wheatsheaf, Greetham provides two courses for £16.50, from 19th Jan to 2nd April (01572 812325). 47

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28 FEB – 12 1 MAR

N WOMA RAL COMOTION U T NA THE LOOT A FRIEND VE G YOU’OU LOVE ME TOMORROW Y WILLP ON THE ROOF U ONE FINE DAY

cGRATH LA M OUG SIC BY GERRY GOFFIN & CAROLE KI D Y IL U NG & BA B RRY MANN & CYNTHIA WE ND M OK BO ORDS A AI FO TER ORCHESTRATIONS BY TEVE IDW L W ELL, NIKO RVISOR ARAH TRAVI SET D

ESIGNE ADAPT SUPE OR ED BY A R FRA ECT SICAL RAH TRAVI NKIE DESIGNER EDD LINDLEY LIGHTIN G DES DIR MU OSTUME BRA M M A O R T R HALL C IGNE D H C GNE I S E D A R AW S TING BEN ND U O C D HOREOGRAP S IREC CRA HER LEAH HILL TOR CKN KAY ELL MA G O NC DG ORIGINALLY Y PRODUCED ON BROADWAY AND IN LONDON BY Y PAUL BLAKE, SONY/AT / V MUSIC PUBLISHING AND MIKE BOSNER.

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THE CROWN UPPINGHAM

Enjoying Winter Dining at

THE CROWN It’s a jewel in the crown that is Uppingham, and finger’s crossed, 2022 will bring a whole year of uninterrupted trading for Laura Totten and the team. A menu of relaxed, feel-good dishes will lift your spirit right through winter and into the spring and summer months at The Crown... Words & Images Rob Davis.

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DINING OUT AT THE CROWN AT UPPINGHAM

ARE YOU THE SUPERSTITIOUS SORT? Then touch wood, keep your fingers crossed, hang up that horseshoe (there’s a few kicking around Rutland) and clutch that four-leaf clover close to your heart. With a new year comes renewed optimism that the dreadful virus will abate and we’ll be able to enjoy a more normal spring and summer. Also hoping for a bit of normality in 2022 is Laura Totten, publican at The Crown in Uppingham. It’s difficult to believe, but the place has been a fixture on the High Street since July 2020, but despite that, the place hasn’t had much beyond six months of continuous trading what with the disruption that the hospitality trade has been subject to ever since she renovated the Grade II listed ironstone pub, which dates back to the 1570s. “With a degree of luck, 2022 will be a full year of trading,” she says. “That means it’ll also be our first proper Mothering Sunday, our first Bank Holidays and a first complete summer opening our doors to locals.” There are signs that things are picking up. During our visit, Laura has just enjoyed brisk trade during the town’s pre-Christmas late 52

night shopping event, which she says was a huge success. That evening many locals came to enjoy a drink and some expressed their joy as discovering The Crown for the first time, and though the feedback was very favourable indeed, it’s certainly taken long enough to become established in the town. “The town has a character and a charm and a personality which belies its size,” she says. “It was horrible when Uppingham School and Uppingham Community College students were studying at home, the place felt like a ghost town.” “Now it feels more like proper Uppingham once more, with lots of people around and a real nice feel. I think it’s telling that despite its small size the place feels once again like a successful thriving community, albeit one still recovering from the consequences of Covid.”

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Accordingly, Laura wanted to create a place commensurate with the feel of Uppingham. That means traditional, comfortable, friendly and welcoming. “There were fish ‘n’ chip shops in the town, fine dining opposite at The Lake Isle, but there didn’t seem to be anything in-between.” “What we wanted to create is somewhere that was sociable and relaxed, where families would feel welcome and where you can sit with lighter dishes and graze over a few drinks with friends.” “We are fortunate to be affiliated with Everards of Leicestershire which means that we can bring their locally brewed and ever popular Tiger to Uppingham, along with the rest of their range. They also give us access to other microbrewers that work with them such as Lincoln Green and Titanic so

we always have a great line up of real ales on the bar” “In terms of food, we offer a range of flatbreads, hand-stretched stone baked pizzas, tapas and salads, which are ideal for casual dining, sharing and grazing... in other words, sociable relaxed and enjoyable dining.” “We believe in embracing the season in terms of food, and whilst we’re looking forward to spring, we’re by no means out of the winter months yet, and that’s reflected in our specials too, which at the moment include a really hearty leek and potato soup with warm crusty bread.” “There’s a baked Camembert on the specials menu too as well as chorizo and bean stew. All three are real good hearty winter dishes and they’re served in the bar in front of a big open fire. It’s really cosy!”

MEET THE CHEF ADAM DREW-BATTY

The Crown’s new Head Chef Adam Drew-Batty fell in love with the town of Uppingham when he arrived to work at Uppingham School. His previous jobs have seen him catering for VIPs at Cheltenham, Ascot and at the Emirates stadium! n

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DINING OUT AT THE CROWN AT UPPINGHAM

on the MENU FROM THE CROWN UPPINGHAM’S MAIN MENUS

Crown Pizzas The Rutland Red, fior di latte mozzarella, Rutland red, Manchego and Long Clawson blue, £10.95. Athenian, with Souvlaki chicken, green peppers, black olives and feta on a rich tomato and fior di latte base, £12.75. Flatbreads Tandoori chicken flatbread with marinated chicken breast on a bed of tandoori yoghurt, rocket and pea shoots with sriracha plus feta and chillis £11.75. Honey halloumi flatbread with chunks of honey marinated halloumi with black sesame seeds o na sweet chilli sauce with rocket and pea shoots £11.75. Speaking of cosy, visitors to the town also enjoy the availability of one of half a dozen beautifully refurbished rooms. Wonky walls, exposed beams and wood panelling around the old window are brought right up to date with modern panels of feature wallpaper or murals, whilst plump pillows are smothered in smooth white linens and thick quilts.

OPENING TIMES Breakfast: 8am-11am, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Main Menu: 11.30am-9pm, seven days. Sunday: 12noon - 4pm.

Bathrooms are all brand new, and there’s a sense of proper individuality to each of the rooms. “We’re keen to ensure that there’s a good provision of food and accommodation for those visiting Uppingham, but also to make sure we look after locals.” “Our Sunday Lunch menu is now available, and that’s based on the same principles of quality and good value with three courses, good side dishes of beautifully prepared vegetables and winter puddings served with cream or custard, real people pleasers!” “We don’t really feel like we’ve shown off the place to its full potential yet, but already we’ve had some fantastic feedback, so we’re hoping that with a year of trading under our belt in 2022 we’ll be even more firmly established in the town.” n

Sunday Lunch Roast beef with mustard crust, Yorkshire pudding, sage and onion stuffing plus roasties £10.25. Sticky toffee pudding or chocolate sponge with custard or cream £5.95. NB: All menu items are subject to change.

n The Crown, High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 822302 or see www.crownuppingham.co.uk. Booking strongly recommended, opening times are subject to change.

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For reservations call 01572 822302 info@crownuppingham.co.uk The Crown, 19 High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY

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PREPARED WITH LOVE

In the KITCHEN The food of love this month with three suggestions for a Valentine’s Day-themed evening in... each of which can be prepared in advance so you’re not stuck in the kitchen!

DOUBLE BAKED CHEESE SOUFFLÉS Preparation Time: 30 minutes. Cooking Time: 30 minutes. Serves: Two. 200ml whole milk • 1 bay leaf • 1 large garlic clove • 50g butter • 40g plain flour 2 tsp Dijon mustard • 100g mature Cheddar cheese, grated • 50g Gruyère cheese, grated 3 eggs, separated • 4 tbsp double cream • A few chives (optional) Warm the milk in a small pan with the bay leaf and garlic. Turn off the heat and leave the milk to infuse for 30 minutes. Reheat just before using. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6 and heat a large baking tray. Melt the butter in a medium-sized pan and use a little to grease four 175ml cup ramekins. Whisk the remaining melted butter with the flour over a medium heat and cook the roux for 1 minute, stirring. Remove the bay leaf and garlic from the warm milk and gradually stir it into the roux. Bring to the boil, then turn the heat down and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring continuously until thick and smooth. Pour the white sauce into a bowl and stir in the mustard, Cheddar and 2 tablespoons of the Gruyère. Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. In a separate large bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Using a metal spoon, fold the egg whites into the cheese mixture in three batches; you can add a few chives for colour/flavour if you wish. Spoon the mixture into the ramekins. Put the ramekins on the heated baking tray and bake for 18–20 minutes until risen. Leave to cool, run a knife around the edge of the soufflés and carefully turn them out. Chill until ready to serve. Heat the oven to 220°C/425°F/Gas 7. Put the soufflés on a baking tray, then spoon 1 tablespoon of the cream and the remaining Gruyère over each one. Bake for 10–12 minutes until risen and the cheese has melted. n 6

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VALENTINE’S DAY RECIPES

BEEF WELLINGTON FOR TWO Preparation Time: One hour. Cooking Time: One hour, 20 minutes. Serves: Two. 20 g dried porcini or shiitake mushrooms • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary • 230 g centre fillet of beef, trimmed olive oil • 2 cloves of garlic • 1 red onion • 250 g mixed mushrooms • truffle oil, optional 1 heaped teaspoon English mustard • 1 x 320 g sheet of all-butter puff pastry • 1 large free-range egg For the pancakes: 1 large free-range egg • 1 mug semi-skimmed milk • 1 mug self-raising flour , plus extra for dusting 100 g baby spinach • For the gravy: 1 red onion • 2 sprigs of fresh thyme • 1 heaped teaspoon blackcurrant jam 50 ml port • 1 heaped tablespoon plain flour • 500 ml organic beef stock

If the thought of preparing a Beef Wellington seems daunting, fear not. This recipe from Jamie Oliver is a slightly simplified version, and it can be prepared in advance, kept chilled then cooked whilst you enjoy your first course. Soak the dried mushrooms in 250ml boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain and finely chop (reserving the soaking liquid for the gravy). Pick and finely chop 1 sprig of rosemary, season with sea salt and black pepper, then roll the fillet through it until nicely coated. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a non-stick pan over a high heat. Lightly crush and add the unpeeled garlic cloves, then add the beef and sear for 5 minutes, turning with tongs. Remove to a plate to cool. Wipe out the frying pan and return to a medium heat. Peel and roughly chop the onion, then squeeze out the softened garlic flesh and add to the pan. Strip in the rest of the rosemary, then tear in the mushrooms. Pour in the beef resting juices, then add the soaked mushrooms. Cook for 15 minutes, or until soft and starting to caramelise, stirring regularly. Tip into a food processor with a few drops of truffle oil (if using) and blitz to a spreadable consistency. Taste and season to perfection. For the pancakes, crack the egg into a blender, add the milk, flour, spinach and a pinch of salt and pepper, then blitz until smooth. Place a large 28cm non-stick frying pan on a medium heat, rub the pan with a little olive oil, then pour in a thin layer of batter, swirling it up and around the edges. Cook on one side only for 2 minutes, or until lightly golden, then flip over and cook for another 10 seconds. Tip onto a plate to cool. Cover and chill the remaining batter for breakfast.

Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/gas 7. To assemble, place a large sheet of clingfilm on a clean surface and place your pancake on top. Spread with 1 heaped teaspoon of English mustard, then spread with the mushroom pâté in an even layer, leaving a 1cm border. Place the cooled beef fillet in the centre of the pancake, then gather up the clingfilm and twist into a parcel. On a flour-dusted surface, cut the pastry in half. Remove the clingfilm and place the pancake-wrapped beef on one piece of pastry. Beat the egg and brush over the pastry base and the pancake, then drape over the remaining piece of pastry to cover and press to seal, as though you’re making large ‘ravioli’. Trim the excess pastry (see tip), transfer to a large greased baking tray and eggwash all over. (If making in advance, pop in the fridge until needed, removing 1 hour before baking.) Cook the Wellington on the bottom of the oven for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden on top and crisp underneath, for blushing, juicy beef. Meanwhile, make the gravy. Peel and roughly chop the onion, place in a large pan on a medium heat with a tablespoon of oil, and strip in the thyme leaves. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, then stir in the jam and simmer until dark and shiny. Add the port, flame with a match, cook away, then stir in the flour, followed gradually by the stock and reserved porcini liquid. Simmer to your desired consistency, then blitz with a stick blender and strain through a sieve. Leave the Wellington to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the gravy. Delicious served with steamed greens. n

Recipe from Jamie’s Friday Night Feast, book on sale now, RRP £13.99, or see www.jamieoliver.com for more recipes.

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VALENTINE’S DAY RECIPES

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE Preparation Time: 15 minutes. Serves: Two. 100g dark chocolate (75 per cent cocoa solids), broken into pieces 120ml warm water • two large eggs, separated • 20g golden caster sugar To serve: a little whipped cream (optional), strawberries or raspberries (optional).

First of all place the broken-up chocolate and 4 fl oz (120 ml) warm water in a large heatproof bowl, which should be sitting over a saucepan of barely simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn't touch the water. Then, keeping the heat at its lowest, allow the chocolate to melt slowly – it should take about 6 minutes. Now remove it from the heat and give it a good stir until it's smooth and glossy, then let the chocolate cool for 2-3 minutes before stirring in the egg yolks. Then give it another good mix with a wooden spoon. Next, in a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites to the soft-peak stage, then whisk in the sugar, about a third at a time, then whisk again until the whites are glossy. Now, using a metal spoon, fold a tablespoon of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to loosen it, then carefully fold in the rest. You need to have patience here – it needs gentle folding and cutting movements so that you retain all the precious air, which makes the mousse light. Next divide the mousse between the ramekins or glasses and chill for at least 2 hours, covered with clingfilm. It’s also good to serve the mousse with a blob of softly whipped cream on top. n Recipe from Delia Smith’s Complete How To Cook, 700 pages, RRP £45, www.deliaonline.com.

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Wine of the Month

Chocolate and wine for your Valentine...

Follador Prosecco Superiore Torri di Credazzo

On the off chance that you are, or you know, a lady who enjoys both wine and chocolate, this should be of interest. Chief Chocolate Officer has analysed the typical tasting notes of the UK’s six most popular wine grapes and produced a premium range of unique chocolate bars. These work so well that when paired with their chosen grape, they mutually enhance the enjoyment of both. Cab Sav, Pinot and Chardonnay are among the six flavours available. n

Venato, Italy, 2017 12% ABV, £14.99

£3.99/100g, available from chiefchocolateofficer.com.

The Wine Cellar THIS MONTH WE WAIT OUT THE WINTER WITH SOME HEAVYWEIGHT FRENCH REDS AND WE ENJOY A NIBBLE OF SOME DELICIOUS CHOCOLATE TOO... THREE OF A KIND: HEAVYWEIGHT LUXURY FRENCH WINTER REDS... 1. Abandon faith all ye who consume this Rhône, a Châteauneuf-du-Pape, especially the 2008/2010 varieties. A grenache blend that’s as full-bodied as they come, sumptuous and silky. £80 / 70cl / 14.5% ABV. 2. God bless the French producing wine like this. A 2001 forest fruit Margaux of exceptional provenance. Dark flavours of fig and liquorice give this wine a hefty nose and real elegance and longevity with nice balance. £78.18 / 70cl / 13.5 ABV. 3.Our third offering is this syrah-based Rhône sporting some dark red fruit, and a pronounced oak flavour. Produced by father and daughter Philippe & Emilie Desmeure. £60 / 70cl / 14%

Prosecco remains the drink of the moment, with 2020 sales of some examples rising by about 30% over the year. Some reckon sales are abating as we reach peak-Prosecco, but before that happens, you might want to toast your beaux with Follador’s Superiore Torri di Credazzo, an elegant Prosecco from a top single vineyard. Supple, full-bodied, savoury and fulfilling, with nuances of apple, peach and rose petals. Bright yellow straw with greenish reflections. Very fine and persistent bubbles. n

Sloe sloe, quick quick: a super winter tipple from Warner Edwards From the hedgerows to your winter, via the magnificent local distillery of Warner Edwards. The firm specialises in superb premium flavoured gins with a gentle tinkling of botanicals and water from an underground spring. This superb sloe gin variant is intensely fruity, bursting with berries and has cherry and almond flavours. Ideal for a winter tipple from your hip flask whilst out hacking on horseback, or to be taken in liberal quantities in front of an open fire, snuggled up on Valentine’s Day! 70cl, 30% ABV, £24.99.

n Our featured wines are available from

the best local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may vary from those stated. 63

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BURGHLEY HOUSE

William Cecil’s

PRODIGY HOUSE So-called prodigy houses were built by courtiers, and those who enjoyed new-found status as nobility. Burghley House is one of the ﬁnest examples, but in addition to being impressive from driveway to doorway its interiors, too, were designed to convey William Cecil’s new status... Image: The Tudor vaulted ceiling of Burghley House’s Old Kitchen.

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THE INTERIORS OF BURGHLEY HOUSE

THE SHEER SCALE of Burghley House is immensely impressive. 34 ‘main rooms’ on the ground floor and first floor, with a further 80 rooms throughout. But if the scale of a prodigy house is to impress, its interiors must be commensurate with a property that, for more than 450 years, has remained one of the most impressive stately homes in Britain. Building Burghley House...

Born in 1520, William Cecil studied law at Gray’s Inn from 1541 and served under the Duke of Somerset before caring for the affairs of Princess, later Queen, Elizabeth. He became a member of the Privy Council in 1558 and her Lord Treasurer from 1572, styled Baron Burghley, Knight of the Garter. Serving the Queen for over 40 years was not a challenge to be taken too lightly, and hard work should always yield a reward, hence Burghley decided to create for himself a property on the family estate in Stamford. William Cecil’s grandfather was Sir David Cecil, a Welsh nobleman who moved to Stamford and served Henry VII. He later served Henry VIII and was Sergeant at Arms, Sheriff of Northamptonshire and JP for Rutland. His son, Sir Richard Cecil, had three daughters as well as son William who was educated at The King’s School, Grantham and Stamford School before reading law. Construction of Burghley House began in 1555 and was completed in 1587, the house costing £21,000 in 1587, which would equate to about £7m in today’s money. And so to bed...

Should you have been lucky enough to secure an invitation to stay with William Cecil or with one of his descendents, you’d be assured of the very best accommodation, especially when it’s time to head upstairs. Of course the way the property’s interiors are furnished is attributable to successive generations of the family. For instance, The 9th Earl employed Mayhew & Ince to create the Black & Yellow Bedroom’s elaborate carved bed in the 66

1770s. On the walls of the bedroom are Fame, a ‘berainesque’ style wall panel, and an allegorical tapestry entitled Fortitude. Henry, 10th Earl and 1st Marquess (17541804) created the Second George Room, with its spectacular State Bed and curtains which were created by London’s Fell & Newton in 1795. Prior to a visit by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1844, the bedroom was redesigned with a slightly smaller bed and a decorative space used by Victoria to plant a tree in the formal gardens which is still visible from the window. Queen Elizabeth I’s Bedroom is a bit of a misnomer as the monarch didn’t actually stay at Burghley. The state bed dates back to the 17th century and although its curtains and counterpane are 20th century in origin, the embroidered brocades and braidwork are original. The bedroom, and a few other rooms on the west side of the house were originally part of the immense Tudor Long Gallery, but were divided up by the 5th Earl during the 1600s. >>

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Should you have been lucky enough to secure an invitation to stay with William Cecil’s descendents, you’d be assured of the very best accommodation, especially when it’s time to head upstairs... Main: The Second George Room. Left: The 9th Earl employed Mayhew & Ince to create the Black & Yellow Bedroom’s elaborate carved bed. Right: Queen Elizabeth I’s Bedroom.

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The Order of

Little Bedlam >> Verrio’s Frescoes...

Among the highlights of Burghley House’s interiors, Antonio Verrio’s frescoes remain a standout feature.

The Order of Little Bedlam (AKA Bedlam Club) was founded by John Cecil, 5th Earl. Each member was associated with a particular animal. Two such members were Bull & Swan... sound familiar?

Featuring in the last series of The Crown, Verrio painted scenes from ancient mythology, around the very grand reception room. Verrio served the crown for over 30 years during the 15th and 16th centuries and is credited with introducing the Baroque style to England. His work can also be seen at Chatsworth, Windsor Castle and Hampton Court as well as Burghley House. 68

The Heaven Room was the first to be commissioned, followed by the ceiling of the Hell Staircase, but Verrio sadly died before further work could be completed, and it was left to Thomas Stothard to finish the room over a century later. The staircase shows the mouth of hell as represented by the gaping jaws of a cat. And within? Countless souls in torment with Death, the Grim Reaper, wielding his sickle!

Above: Verrio’s first commission at Burghley House was the Heaven Room. He created the ceiling but was unable to finish the rest of the Hell Staircase.

Also seen here is the Bow Room. Again with a painted ceiling, this time depicting Roman mythology. The frescoes were painted in 1697 by Laguerre and depict scenes including the battle of Cannae, Mark Anthony’s death before Cleopatra and Scipio releasing the betrothed of his defeated enemy. The candelabra in the room lined the processional route at the lying-in-state of the Duke of Wellington in 1852. Lord Exeter was the involved in the organisation of the Duke’s funeral and he... ahem... seemed to acquire a couple of souvenirs along the way. The Bow Room was the preferred dining room of the 5th Earl, who was a member of the so-named Bedlam Club. >>

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THE INTERIORS OF BURGHLEY HOUSE

The staircase shows the mouth of hell with countless souls crying in torment and the Grim Reaper, wielding his sickle... Main: The Heaven Room’s frescoes, created by Verrio. Above: The Hell Staircase, much of which can be attributed to Thomas Stothard. Left: The Bow Room.

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THE INTERIORS OF BURGHLEY HOUSE

>> The Old Kitchen...

The opening spread of this feature shows perhaps the most conspicuously Tudor room of Burghley House with its fan-vaulted room and roof lantern which would have been open in order to vent away the smoke and cooking smells from a small army of kitchen staff, labouring to keep William Cecil and his descendents in prandial clover. Of particular note is the 260-piece batterie de cuisine which dates from the late 18th century... it really is a bit fancier than your average set of Le Creuset cookware. The Billiard Room...

As well as creating Burghley House’s parkland, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown also turned his hand to creating the intricate plaster ceiling of the Billiard Room. Within the room are six members of the aforementioned Bedlam Club, founded in 1684 by John Cecil, 5th Earl and reconvened in 1705 by John Cecil, 6th Earl. It was a tradition to refer to members of the club as animals; the latter was known as grand master ‘Lion,’ but there was also a ‘Bull’ and ‘Swan’ which gave Stamford’s pub its name. The Chapel...

And after all that bedlam, successive generations have been able to repent in the chapel, mostly furnished in the 17th and 18th centuries. The 5th and 9th Earls of Exeter were keen to incorporate Italian artwork, and so a number of old masters can be seen in the room, including Paolo Caliari’s Il Veronese altarpiece, acquired by the 9th Earl in 1769. The chapel’s pulpit was commissioned from Mayhew & Ince, who had also provided Burghley’s Black & Yellow bedroom with its elaborate carved bed. n Burghley House reopens in March from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10.30am, tickets £20/adult, see www.burghley.co.uk or call 01780 752451.

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High Quality Contemporary & Traditional Kitchens by Symphony Appliances from Neff, Indesit and Smeg

BUILDER’S MERCHANTS, TIMBER AND LANDSCAPING SUPPLIER

Pillings Rd, Oakham LE15 6QF 01572 490790 • williamhercock.co.uk Also in Melton Mowbray and Birstall • Established 1899

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HOME FURNISHINGS

COOL, CALM and

COLLECTED This month we’re championing the cool, calm and collected shades of duck egg blue and warm neutral linen hues, to create an ambience of calm throughout your home... Main Image: Colefax & Fowler’s 2021/2022 autumn/winter collection; sofa in Porth Stripe fabric, left cushion Ashmead in navy, Sidbury in aqua. Right cushions Sidbury in aqua, Ellison in aqua. Chair Hardy Stripe in leaf green, chair cushion Birch Stripe, green. Sanderson fabrics are stocked by most of our independent local soft furnishing specialists.

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HOME FURNISHINGS

Cool blue, aqua and duck egg shades can be warmed using neutral colours like linen...

Top: Wallpaper Zoffany Ormonde, bed and curtains Zoffany Visconte in stone. Above/Right: Inspired by nature, Elysian by Sanderson. Right: Autumn/winter 2021 collection from Zoffany; curtains in Talmont jade, headboard in Selma metal, cushion in Talmont jade, throw in Rimini jade edged.

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Sanderson’s Elysian wallpaper, seen here is Lismore in silver grey colourway.

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HOME FURNISHINGS

Zoffany’s Sansui in Snow Peaks colourway, a feature wallpaper featured in the brand’s Akaishi collection.

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A whimsical design or print can bring a sense of fun to an otherwise calm and understated colour...

Top/Left: Botanica wallpaper by Clarke & Clarke. Above: Sanderson Sailor wallpaper. Right: William Morris Pure Bachelors bedding.

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Clarke and Clarke’s Avebury. Fairford natural, Fairford linen and Bibury in ivory.

Stamford & Rutland Interiors: Broughtons: Leicester, 0116 2341888,www.broughtons.com. Delcor Interiors: Stamford, 01780 762579, www.delcor.co.uk. Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors: Oakham, 01572 722345, www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk. Hunters Interiors of Stamford: 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk. Sarah Harding Interiors: Uppingham, 01572 823389, sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk. Simply Stamford: St Mary’s Street, Stamford, 01780 481852, www.simplystamford.co.uk. Please note availability of brands and ranges at the above design studios subject to variation.

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HUNTERS INTERIORS OF STAMFORD

STYLE & CREATIVITY

AT HUNTERS INTERIORS OF STAMFORD Lead Image: Colefax & Fowler.

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Helping to make the most of the home you cherish, Hunters Interiors of Stamford is founded on creating collaborative working relationships with local clients, like Kathryn White...

YOUR HOME has never been more important. Over the past couple of years we’ve all spent more time in our home, and we’ve begun to work from home as well as conducting our family life there too. No two properties are the same, no two families are the same, and your sense of taste and style, too, is unique. And so, that being the case, why would you choose anything other than an interior design service that values your individuality and aims to bring your vision to life, whether it’s the creation of a single room, complete house or bespoke curtains, blinds, headboards or furniture? “People are at the heart of everything we do, and everything that we do is a reflection of our clients’ individuality and personality,”

say Candida Smith and Georgina Teesdale, of Hunters Interiors of Stamford. “We’ve a collective 40 years of experience in the industry and we’re proud to say that every single commission has been different.” Hunters Interiors has become a destination venue to which people from across Stamford & Rutland visit to gain inspiration and ideas from home accessories and finishing touches to complete projects. That led the company to create The Hayloft, their adjacent coffee shop which serves excellent coffee, homemade cakes, lunches and salads with Hambleton Bakery bread. “The Hayloft is a great place to meet, with lots of free parking and cosy indoor spaces plus a large sunny terrace for the spring and summer months.”

“It’s become a popular meeting place and somewhere to sit and consider a project you’re contemplating for your home.” “Every consultation with us begins with a discussion over a coffee and it’s a really important feature of Hunters Interiors that interior design is a collaborative process, bringing to fruition your ideas and your vision.” In 2019, Stamford resident Kathryn White moved from a large Georgian property into a cottage adjacent to The Meadows in the town and sought Candida’s advice for how to impart her existing property’s sense of style into her new home. “We’d decorated before but never renovated a property to this extent,” she says. “I really 83

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HUNTERS INTERIORS OF STAMFORD

“Every consultation is a collaborative process, bringing to fruition your ideas and your vision...”

liked my existing furniture and the colours, the look and feel of the place. I’m quite decisive but Candida still helped me to ratify my own ideas and to pull everything together.” “Hunters Interiors of Stamford reupholstered chairs and stools, created bespoke curtains and really helped me to think outside the box. It really was a very collaborative experience.” “Even now I return home and smile. I love the place, and that’s due to the way we’ve created the interiors,” says Kathryn. “Good design is a partnership and we’re proud not just of our ability to provide the brands, the know-how and an ability to project manage according to your needs, but also the personal approach we take and the care we invest in building relationships with clients,” says Candida. “The brands we work with include some of the finest names in the

interior design world in terms of quality and innovation.” “These include paint from Little Greene and Zoffany, fabrics from Colefax & Fowler, Nina Campbell, Mulberry, GPJ Baker and Designers’ Guild.” “We’ve also curated a range of accessories from mirrors and lighting to cushions and home fragrance, and we partner with some of the UK’s most skilled furniture makers to create completely bespoke sofas, chairs, upholstered headboards and other furniture for our customers.” “Its a misnomer that interior designers are only interested in larger projects. In fact, we’re interested in any project that you’re involved with in your home. Our reputation is founded on a passion for good design and in nurturing great working relationships.” n

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Find Out More: Hunters Interiors of Stamford is based at The Stables Copthill Farm Deeping Road, Stamford PE9 4TD. Call 01780 757946 or see www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk.

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Beautiful hand-picked quality home décor, with inspiring timeless pieces which will add a touch of luxury to every home, our shop is right in the heart of Stamford on St Mary’s Street MIRRORS, LIGHTING, HOME FRAGRANCE, BEAUTY & BODY, HOME ACCESSORIES, VASES & JUGS, KITCHENWARE, BARWARE, GIFTS AND MORE...

Visit us at 2 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DE Call 01780 481852 or shop online at

www.simplystamford.co.uk Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

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Interior Design Service Be inspired by the rich cultures of the ancient silk route and add a touch of the exotic to your home with this embroidered fabric of jewel shaped ikat motifs. If you are looking for home styling ideas or advice, visit our showroom, we are always delighted to discuss design.

Showroom and Coﬀee Shop Open Monday to Saturday 9am-4.30pm

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

Call 01780 757946 info@huntersinteriors.co.uk www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk Photos courtesy of Osborne & Little, www.osborneandlittle.com

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THE LITTLE LAND COMPANY

LAND, HOPE & GLORY If you’ve land with potential, and high hopes, The Little Land Company can help you achieve glory. With backgrounds in property, planning and finance respectively, three local experts have come together to offer advice and expertise to help you benefit from land acquisition and development… Words: Rob Davis.

YOUR PROPERTY and the land upon which it’s located is probably the most valuable asset you have, both financially and intrinsically. And now, there’s a trio of local specialists who can help you maximise the benefit of that land. The Little Land Company’s remit is bespoke to every client, but coming from a property, planning and finally a finance background respectively, Helen James, Karen Darrington and Natasha Darrington can acquire, achieve planning permission for, develop, and finally build on or sell land. Who do we work with?

“Every client we work with is different,” says Helen. “Being a small company we’re nimble enough to bring three different professional skill sets to a project, in a way that suits a client without compromise. The size of our company also means clients have a consistent point of contact, too.” “Whilst there’s no typical client, a scenario might be that a client’s paddock, part of their garden or their estate has potential for redevelopment. In that case, we can establish what a client’s objectives are – realising the uplift value in their land as a whole, dividing up their estate to provide a

smaller overall plot with less work, releasing equity, or securing planning permission for a new property.” What pitfalls can you help me to avoid?

“Typically, someone looking to build a property looks for land, purchases it, and only then discovers any potential pitfalls, or faces a struggle to achieve planning permission. We’ve years working in property, but we’ve also worked with the planning departments of local authorities for more than 20 years, so we’ve not just an overall understanding of the whole planning and development process, but specific local knowledge and familiarity too.” “As part of our services, we visit a site and look at issues likely to arise from conservation areas or proximity to listed properties, ecology and tree surveys, access and all of the other detailed considerations that a planning department will look at.” What are the advantages?

“Where do we start? It’s in our interests to ensure you get the most value from your land. It might be that rather than a simple development, there are other scenarios we can suggest to utilise the land more efficiently and achieve greater uplift value.”

“Moreover, we can help to take the stress out of a land transaction, and we can use our knowledge and experience to make communication with people like planning departments much easier, ensuring that planning problems are more likely to be avoided prior to submission.” Are you a replacement for an estate agent?

“No! Quite the opposite. We’re keen to work with estate agents to add value to their existing listing by exploring the possibility of increasing the upsell value of an area of land. Potentially this could mean the sale of the property, the land that’s separated off, and a property on that piece of land, once developed.” “We also work alongside many third-party builders, contractors or project managers to ensure there’s a clear direction in which a project can proceed, once planning permission has been achieved.” Can you find us land?

“Because we’ve quite a specific interest – the acquisition and development of land – we’re always quite familiar with what’s going on in our local area. Again, though, because we’re a small company, the best scenario is to discuss your bespoke needs and see if we’re aware of anything that may be of interest to you.” n

We have great coffee… for a free, no obligation latté and a discussion about your circumstances, call 01832 279089, email hello@thelittlelandcompany.co.uk or see www.thelittlelandcompany.co.uk.

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QKS OF STAMFORD

QUALITY KITCHENS FOR 40 YEARS IN STAMFORD Four decades of craftsmanship and style and more than 10,000 kitchens created during his career. When it comes to creating your perfect kitchen, Stamford’s Malcolm Brandwood and his team are the experts with invaluable advice...

A PLACE TO COOK. A place to dine. A place to spend time with family, to catch up on office emails or for the kids to do their homework. And last month, our kitchens also served as football stadiums too. Of all the purposes they’ve served, this was undoubtedly one of the most important. My wife, son and I were in our kitchen, sitting around the table and watching intently as England’s hopes faded into penalties... but there’s not penalty to pay for speaking to Stamford’s QKS when you’re looking to create your next kitchen. Like the England team, looking back on their 1966 victory, Malcolm too is able to reflect on his past achievements, whilst also looking to the present and the future. Since beginning his career in 1976 and founding QKS – Quality Kitchens Stamford – in 1981, he reckons he’s provided over 10,000 kitchens for his local customers. Today, QKS has five kitchen designers with a combined 185 years of experience, designing, supplying and installing kitchens from 90

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In stock is a range of 80 different appliances selected from Neff, Bosch and Smeg, whilst work surface options include the latest engineered stone surfaces from Corian and Silestone as well as traditional timber, quartz and marble.

£3,000 to £50,000. QKS’s showroom on the town’s Barnack Road has 25 room settings. A combination of professionalism and a desire to retain the good reputation they’ve built up has ensured the business has created a steady stream of satisfied customers, and Malcolm is busier than ever. Design Director Andrew Singer and our Sheraton specialist Jonathan Ramm manage the company’s larger projects and Malcolm describes them as being the driving force behind the company’s success. Whilst the company does provide the option of supply only kitchens, the majority of clients are seeking the convenience of a turnkey service. This options sees Malcolm and the team coordinating all of the trades necessary to deliver the client’s projects, liaising with

structural and building specialists, plumbing, gas and electrical contractors, plasterers, tilers and decorators to ensure that all you have to do is choose the look you’re seeking and then appreciate years of quality. The firm specialises in both traditional and more modern in-frame shaker style kitchens, and the latest high gloss cabinetry from industry-leading names like Sheraton, Omega and Chippendale.

“We’ve thrived even through three recessions and a global pandemic,” says Malcolm. “And there’s no reason for that beyond the fact that we’ve built a rock-solid foundation of a good reputation in the town.” “Styles may change, technology may come onto the market and each property that we work with – each family that visits our showroom – may be unique, but what’s absolutely universal across the industry is an appreciation for quality and good service.” “Offering that to every customer, without exception for 40 years has ensured that our clients always appreciate coming home to a Quality Kitchen in Stamford.” n

n QKS Kitchens is based at The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA. Call 01780 755855 for a free, strictly pressure-free, no obligation discussion about your project. Alternatively, see www.qksstamford.co.uk. 91

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Crafting bespoke hardwood conservatories and orangeries, roof lights & timber windows...

MORRISS & SHAW LUXURY GARDEN HOUSES

Unique and beautiful audio visual systems WE MAKE TECHNOLOGY SIMPLE

Working with home owners and interior designers to design and install easy to use home technology CINEMA ROOMS MULTI-ROOM AUDIO SYSTEMS INTELLIGENT LIGHTING ULTRA-HD VIDEO DISTRIBUTION BESPOKE SYSTEM DESIGN

Based in Sleaford, so for a free, no obligation design consultation and an initial discussion of your project call 01529 300609

01733 246 907 www.darkeav.co.uk

www.morrissandshawgardenhouses.com 92

hello@darkeav.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL MARINE

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FULL DESIGN SERVICE, ALL MANAGED UNDER ONE ROOF

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

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

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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

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Oxford double wall lamp £call. David Hunt Pimlico floor lamp in antique brass £450.

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BROUGHTONS OF LEICESTER

Aspen Table Lamp By David Hunt, crafted in wood effect resin, £210.

Joshua Bronze

Six light pendant, taupe, silk shade by David Hunt, £793.

Cecilia Oval Pendant Finished in chrome, by DAR Lighting, £261.

SEE THE

LIGHT Dynamo Bar Pendant

This month we’ve a selection of luxury lighting to help brighten up the darkest months courtesy of specialist lighting and ironmongery supplier Broughtons

Triple light in antique chrome, by DAR Lighting, £122.

All products featured are available at Broughtons, The Old Cinema, Cropston Rd, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7BP. Call 0116 234 1888 or see www.broughtons.com.

Croc Wall Light

Bailey Chandelier

In light bronze, by David Hunt, £199.

12 light, by David Hunt in Rich Bronze, £850.

Academy Pendant Five light in black, by DAR Lighting, £306.

Boavista Table Lamp By David Hunt in gold and cream glass, £285.

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Professional Interior Design Service Re-Upholstery and Soft Furnishings

MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH

01572 823389

www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

Visit our Grade II listed 1,600sq ft furniture showroom... Fresh coffee and homemade cake in ‘coffee corner’...

High Street, Thrapston, Kettering NN14 4JJ Call 03301 331799 or see www.auburnfox.co.uk

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STAMFORD STONE

CELEBRATING

ENGLISH STONE This month we’re celebrating a natural product that’s beautiful, durable and timeless. Stamford Stone is the home of a truly versatile building material for both indoor and outdoor use... Words: Kate Cadman.

SUSTAINABILITY is key these days and sourcing materials with a low carbon footprint is becoming increasingly important for many of us. So why source stone from around the world when English stone is perfectly suited for the job? Stamford Stone’s renowned Clipsham limestone has won a variety of awards. This year alone, judges at the Stone Federation National Stone Awards, named the winning project of the New Build Modern Category as a redevelopment project at St John’s College, Oxford, built with Clipsham limestone. In addition, a private build project to create a seven-bed country house in Cambridgeshire, again using Clipsham stone, was judged as Highly Commended in the Traditional Style Stonemasonry Category of the same Awards. Dan Wilson, Director of Stamford Stone: “We have worked hard to promote our own 98

Clipsham limestone to be the go-to stone for both development and restoration projects throughout the UK over the years and this work is beginning to pay dividends.” “The limestone we excavate from our quarries is the most recognised stone in the area for large-scale commercial projects.” “Stamford Stone is the exclusive global supplier of Clipsham limestone. As owners and operators of two Clipsham Quarries just north of Stamford, in addition to Clipsham’s proven history as a building material spanning hundreds of years, and the fact we can guarantee reserves for the next 900 years, are all important factors when architects are specifying materials,” adds Dan. English limestone is an exquisite, natural material. Its versatility means it is often used for restoration works on many prestigious

buildings. Indeed, Stamford Stone has supplied Clipsham limestone to The Palace of Westminster, Windsor Castle and many historical college buildings in Oxford and Cambridge for both restoration and new development. “At Stamford Stone, we are continually changing and upgrading our processes with a view to becoming carbon neutral by 2025, we are constantly researching ways to make our production as streamlined and energy efficient as possible,” explains Dan. Limestone ticks all the sustainability and environmentally friendly boxes, making it a sought-after material for new builds too. In addition, limestone requires minimal maintenance, controls sound and insulates against fluctuating temperatures, making it as popular today as a building material as it has always been. n

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UNVEILING WESTBY AGED FLOORING... Stamford Stone is excited to be unveiling a beautiful new stone to add to their English limestone natural stone flooring range Westby Limestone Flooring, which will be available in an Aged or Honed finish. The limestone for Stamford Stone’s range of English limestone flooring is extracted from the company’s Clipsham Bidwells Quarry. “We have recently begun excavating in the new area of the Clipsham Bidwells Quarry and discovered a new bed of limestone, which is a gorgeous pale cream colour, with minimal fossil content, giving a really clean but beautifully understated look to the flooring,” explains Stamford Stone at Home’s showroom sales manager, Luciana Ciarla. “The testing of the stone gave excellent durability results and the ability to process in both a Honed and a Hand Aged finish, so it complements both traditional and modern schemes.” n

PICTURE PERFECT NATURAL STONE FIREPLACES... Your fireplace is often the focal point of a room. If you really want to make a statement, why not install a natural stone fireplace that will frame your fire beautifully. Take a look at some inspirational interiors featuring Stamford Stone at Home’s handcrafted stone products. n Visit www.ssathome.co.uk to view the range, order a free sample or book a showroom visit. The company is based at Swaddywell Quarry, PE6 7EL, or call 01780 740970.

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

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

01733 894422 | www.pdakitchens.co.uk

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THE BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH

The 2022 Big Garden Birdwatch Rutland & Stamford’s bird population is counting on you, counting on them. That’s because this month represents the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, one of the UK’s largest wildlife surveys, and a way for the organisation to keep an eye on what’s happening with our most common species. Can you spare an hour to count the birds in your garden? Image: Kingfishers can be observed in the area’s waterways, and if you’re lucky, around the pond in your garden!

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THE 2022 BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH

When you’ve a big task to accomplish, a little help is always welcome. That’s why the RSPB is asking for our help to continue to accurately predict the rise, fall, and health of our native bird populations... >> This year represents the 42nd year that the RSPB has asked for our help in compiling the most accurate and comprehensive UKwide survey of bird populations. In Rutland, the osprey population quite justifiably enjoys much publicity, having been reintroduced into the country over the past 25 years. But what about our other birds, those species we might take for granted? That’s where the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch comes in. 2022’s event takes place from 28th-30th January, but the count has been taking place since 1979. The premise is simple; spend one hour counting the number of species you see in your garden, then submit your data to the RSPB and contribute to what amounts to being the largest and the most geographically comprehensive survey of UK bird populations. It makes a great deal of sense to involve the public, because doing so means the wildlife charity has a much greater quantity of data, and can account for regional variations in bird populations. What’s more, as the survey has been taking place since 1979, it also allows the RSPB to keep track of long-term changes, which is especially important in determining what affect climate change is having on our native bird species. Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s Chief Executive, said: “Everyone has a role to play in saving nature and protecting our wildlife. Previously, Big Garden Birdwatch participants have

This Page: The area’s five most common bird species; the House Sparrow; Blue Tit; Starling; and Blackbird. Pictured opposite, the Goldfinch.

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THE 2022 BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH

made a significant contribution to monitoring garden bird numbers over the past four decades. It’s an enjoyable, easy, inclusive activity that anyone can do and a great opportunity to connect with nature.” “Our garden birds should be a part of our everyday life. For many people they provide our only connection to the natural world and they bring enormous joy. To have so many people spending an hour watching the wildlife in their garden doesn’t only help us build up a picture of how our garden birds are doing, but people who take part feel better for doing so.” Last year, 1,000,000 participants counted over 17,000,000 birds, and were able to determine that the most common garden bird in the UK was the House Sparrow, followed by the Blue Tit, Starling, Wood Pigeon and Blackbird. Sadly the survey’s longer term results also show that we’ve lost 38 million birds from UK skies in the last 50 years, so it really is vital we do all we can to look after our birdlife. So, whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or you’re wrapped up warm inside a chilly house this month, you’ll discover the thoroughly mindful pleasure of simply watching the natural world reveal itself just beyond your window... that’s why we think the RSPB’s 2022 count really is worth getting in a flap about. n

Great Tit.

Sparrow.

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Robin.

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Magpie.

THE 2022 BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH

Get ready for The Big Garden Birdwatch. It’s fun, free and for everyone...

Long-tailed tit.

Be wowed by your local wildlife. Big Garden Birdwatch is for everyone, whether you're a complete beginner or a birding expert. Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour between 28th and 30th January 2022. You can take part in the Birdwatch by simply counting the birds you see and going online to tell the charity what you have seen. However, the RSPB has also created a comprehensive pack providing all of the guidance you need to take part. “In recent years, there has been a broad and much-needed realisation that nature is an important and necessary part of our lives especially for our mental health and wellbeing. But nature needs us too,” says Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s Chief Executive. “By taking part in the Birdwatch, you are helping to build an annual snapshot of how our birdlife is doing right across the UK.” “It is only by us understanding how our wildlife is faring that we can protect it. We know that nature is in crisis, but together we can take action to solve the problems facing nature.” n You can download the guide online, by visiting rspb.org.uk to find out more.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE NFU MUTUAL

Protection for the

FUTURE There’s an old adage that states life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans, and for the team at NFU Mutual Stamford, protection for every eventuality is a source of great security, yielding the reassurance that you’re ready for almost anything... except perhaps the stress of moving house! Back in 1967, two American psychologists named Thomas Holmes and Richard Rahe examined 43 common ‘life events,’ and created a stress scale based on the social readjustment needed to cope with them. Death of a spouse and divorce or marital separation are at the top of the scale, as are being sent to prison and personal injury or illness, all quite understandable. Also making the list though, are those ‘happy’ events like holidays, getting married, pregnancy, sons or daughters leaving home, retirement, Christmas and moving home. Change – any change – is stressful. As we met Ashley Oxer and Miles Baker, the agents were getting ready for Christmas and were, respectively, heading off on holiday to Lapland with the family and preparing to move house over the festive break. Whatever goes on, though, during the course of your festive celebrations, family life, financial affairs or fun and recreation, appropriate protection is a good way to ensure that you’re better prepared for any curved (snow)ball that life throws into the mix. “Insurance today is too commonly a grudge purchase, chosen online from an anonymous company and price-driven. And that’s a shame because it’s only when the worst happens to you that you realise just how good your insurer is,” says Miles.

“The NFU was established in 1908 as a representative body championing the interests of British farming and agricultural businesses right across the country.” “Two years later, NFU Mutual aimed to provide insurance and financial services to their members, and 112 years on, it consists of a network of 300 local offices.” The company’s background does lead some to the conclusion that its services are available only to those who work in farming.”

“You don’t have to work in the countryside to access advice and insurance or investment products offered by NFU Mutual...” “In fact, you don’t have to be a farmer or a member of the NFU to take advantage of NFU Mutual’s range of services, and those services are available to both individuals and businesses. “You don’t have to be a farmer or work in the countryside to access advice and insurance or investment products offered by NFU Mutual but its origins in rural markets mean that as a company we have a holistic understanding of those communities and

we’re keen to ensure we still have offices close to our customers to ensure we can maintain face-to-face contact.” “The latter is really important to us because across our gamut of both home and business insurance products – from corporate and liability to home, contents, motor and dog & cat insurance – we’ve come to know that it’s really easy to be incorrectly insured.” “There’s no substitute for a personal consultation and when you come to review your policy or make a claim, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re appropriately insured and are dealing with a named person that you’ve met and spoken with before is really invaluable.” “The same applies to our financial planning services which are provided by NFU Mutual Financial Adviser, Chris Gormley.” “We believe wholeheartedly in personal service, an investment in building a good working relationship with our clients.” NFU Mutual Financial Advisers advise on NFU Mutual products and selected products from specialist providers. They’ll explain the advice services and the charges. Financial advice is provided by NFU Mutual Select Investments Ltd. “With that peace of mind, you’re free to get on with life, from house moves to holidays, or just looking after your family.” n

Find Out More: NFU Mutual Stamford is now based at 41 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS. For more information call 01780 762421 or visit nfumutual.co.uk. A Oxer & M J Baker is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. And an introducer to NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited, a member of the NFU Mutual group of companies. 109

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MOTORS

Big reputation for a

Small Wonder It’s the most successful model in Porsche’s lineup. The Macan may be its smallest SUV, but it’s wildly successful and oﬀers a magical driving experience... this facelifted version only adds to its already huge appeal!

BACK IN 2019, before the world fell apart, Porsche was having a great year. The company saw record worldwide sales of over 280,000 vehicles, and 99,944 of those sales were of its small SUV model, the Macan. The car even outsold its larger sibling, although not by much; sales of the larger Cayenne 4x4 that year were just over 92,000; UK Macan sales totalled over 95,000 models, an increase of 18% on 2018. The Macan is an important model for the firm, because it’s the most accessible Porsche model for those considering one of the many small SUVs on the market today, and a way for the brand to pilfer sales from other mainstream manufacturers like Jaguar Land Rover, Audi, Mercedes and BMW... more so than, for example, its Boxster or 911 which are less 110

likely to steal sales from those other brands. There’s another reason it’s so popular though, namely the fact that the Macan is so awesome to drive. The physics of taller SUVs are sometimes at odds with good handing characteristics, but Porsche has absolutely nailed the driving involvement of the Macan: it truly is dynamically gifted.

The Macan gets warmer and warmer as you move up the range to S and GTS versions. Our preference though is the firecracker of a 2.0 engine, turbocharged and fettled to produce 265ps, in the entry level version. At just under £49,000 the Macan looks like good value, but beware the options list. One of the nicest elements of the Macan is the ability to customise it to the nth degree. Gold or body colour wheels, custom colours, and lots of leather shades and dash finishers, all are available... for a price. What does come as standard, though, are stunning driving dynamics, a decent sized boot (488 litres; a Ford Focus has 341 litres) plus five seats. There’s a premium feel and a great badge too. The best things, its appears, really do come in compact packages! n

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THE DETAILS

Porsche Macan Price: £48,970 (Macan base). Powertrain: 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder petrol. 265ps, 400Nm torque. Performance: 0-60mph: 6.4secs. Top speed 144mph. WLTM economy 26-28mpg. Equipment: Eight way electrically adjustable seats, PASM (navigation) and audio, air con. Find Out More: Porsche Hull, call 01482 911918 or see www.porsche.com. 111

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MOTORS

THE OLD DOG WHO LEARNED

NEW TRICKS

Off-roaders. You can’t move for them in today’s car showrooms, and they all look the same, right? Well, not this one. It’s a new off-road version of Morgan’s Plus Four. Practical? Absolutely not. Unique? Yes. Definitely.

THE MORGAN MOTOR COMPANY was established in 1910, It currently employs 246 people in Malvern and produces about 850 cars a year. A modest number, certainly. In fact, a Ford Fiesta is sold five and a half times over, each and every month, for every Morgan sold over the course of an entire year. But we’re comparing apples to oranges. The company, still enjoys revenues of £26m each year and Morgan has a reputation as one of the best-loved British motoring brands stretching back over a century, surviving perhaps because of – and not in spite of – the niche nature of its vehicles. Picture your typical Morgan driver and you’re probably picturing an older, silvered male wearing driving goggles, and leather gloves with a scarf flapping behind him. 112

But if that’s the case the firm’s latest model will probably come as quite a shock. Since 1911 Morgan has been supplying vehicles to drivers competing in all-terrain endurance challenges or hill climbs. The halcyon days of chaps, cads and bounders, hooning around in early motor cars has since given way to more civilised 4x4s, and nowadays, SUVs are outselling executive saloons, estates and pretty much every other class of motor car.

So actually, in producing its own off-roader, Morgan is not only being faithful to its own heritage, it’s also adhering to current market trends... sort of. This is the company’s CX-T. It’s like the company’s Plus Four model, but it’s been beefed up. Really beefed up. The car has 230mm of ground clearance, which isn’t far off the new Land Rover Defender. The suspension has been designed to be expedition ready: tough and fit for purpose with a five-piece underbody protection system. There’s an also electronic diff lock and two all-terrain modes. Interestingly the car remains rear-wheel drive, but at just 1,300kg and with a 2.0 engine, it’s still a rugged statement motor car that’s ideal for anyone keen to celebrate the best of British. n

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THE DETAILS

Morgan CX T Price: £204,000.

Powertrain: BMW-sourced 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo petrol, six-speed manual with rear-wheel drive. Performance: 0-60mph: 5.2secs. Top speed 149mph. WLTM economy 39mpg. Equipment: Rear-mounted two ruggedised and waterproof Pelican luggage cases, aluminium tool/storage box plus spare wheels/tyres. Underbody protection. Leather seats. 113

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Pride Magazine is available to read, for free, on your phone or tablet... Enjoy the area’s finest magazines, using our App, free to download now!

Read online now at

w w w.p ridemag azi nes.co.uk You can now enjoy Pride Magazine with our app on your smartphone or tablet... completely free of charge!

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THIS MONTH: BEST FOOT FORWARD AT THE VIP LAUNCH OF FAIRFAX & FAVOR...

To feature your event call 01529 469977. Our magazines are free to read online, so you can share the magazine with your friends. Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk. 115

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The VIP Launch in Stamford of

Fairfax & Favor WE’RE TOLD that Britain’s High Streets are in decline. That may be true elsewhere, but certainly not in Stamford. In fact, the arrival of Fairfax & Favor’s new store in Stamford is nothing more than a vote of conﬁdence in the town. That’s because the brand is, ostensibly, an online retailer, with just a single physical shop in its home town of Holt, Norfolk, plus a few concessions elsewhere. Stamford is only the brand’s second ever physical store, and rather than base themselves in a larger city, they’ve chosen Stamford as a place to welcome in those who appreciate Marcus Fairfax Fountaine and Felix Favor Parker’s timeless country footwear, clothing and accessories. The Grade II listed premises have been beautifully refurbished and look absolutely superb, so put your best foot forward this month and head towards Fairfax & Favor to support the town’s newest retailer. n Images: Rob Davis.

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NO BUSINESS LIKE

SNOW BUSINESS

This month our fashion recommendations are going slightly oﬀ-piste, with a range of skiwear and jackets perfect for alpine adventures or winter outings a little closer to home... This Page: Mons Royale Arete wool insulation vest, £155.

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Goldbergh Geo jacket £640.

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Goldbergh Western jacket £860.

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FASHION

Top/Left: Poivre Blanc Belted Stretch Ski Jacket, £425. Top/Right: Roxy Jetty snow jacket for women £220. Above/Left: Roxy Rowley snow jacket for women £440. Above/Right: Picture Aeron jacket in rose taupe £400.

Goldbergh: www.goldbergh.com. Mons Royale: eu.monsroyale.com. Picture: www.picture-organic-clothing.com. Poivre Blanc: www.poivreblanc.co.uk. Roxy: www.roxy-uk.co.uk.

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Residential Care

Dementia Care

Nursing Care

Quality of life in the heart of Oakham...

Residential, dementia, nursing or respite care. Luxury facilites including cinema and library.

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

Landscaped gardens and café/bistro/bar. Outstanding, personalised care, no hidden costs.

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

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Rutland Stamford Pride FEBRUARY 235.qxp 06/01/2022 15:59 Page 125

WINTER BEAUTY

Purple Reigns THIS FEBRUARY WE LOOK AT LUXURY PRODUCTS IN A COLOUR THAT IS THOUGHT TO HELP BRING PROSPERITY AND A CLEAR MIND TO YOUR WINTER!

1. Express yourself with perfume for the well-heeled... Christian Louboutin Trouble in Heaven Pure Perfume is a fragrance that turns heads. Imagined to celebrate woman and her desires, the Christian Louboutin parfums have each their unique personality yet are united by Christian’s vision behind their construction. Trouble in Heaven Pure Perfume is a second skin of perfect iris, patchouli and tonka resonating with oriental amber,

5. Versatile Eyes with Clinique... Clinique’s All About Shadow Quads in shade, Going Steady, is a long-wearing powder eye colour in a versatile palette. Wear shades alone or layered together in different combinations. Fade-resistant, it is also tested and safe for contact wearers, £30.

£115 / 30ml.

2. African Violet As far as Tom Ford is concerned, every detail counts. This extra-amplified, gloss and shine nail lacquer lets you express your mood and complete your look. It’s groundbreaking, highperformance formula with bendable coasting delivers high coverage and shine while staying colour true throughout wear, £32.

3. Shine With Pleasure

6. Big Hair? Don’t Care... with Hot Air from BaByliss BaByliss Big Hair Care Hot Air 50mm Styler creates a flawless, bouncy blow-dry style whilst caring for your hair. With an iconic rotating brush to add dramatic volume and shine to styles, you can replicate a salon perfect blow-dry at home, £60.

Set your own rules with Lancôme’s latest lipstick, L’Absolu Mademoiselle Shine. Its balmy texture enriched with Proxylane and Rose Oil melts easily on your lips for an instant shine effect with comfort and care, £27.

4. Nurture Your Skin Hourglass No.28 primer Serum is ultra-hydrating and nutrient-rich infused with 28 beneficial ingredients to nurture your skin as it prepares it for flawless makeup. Skin is instantly transformed, appears young and more luminous, £59 / 30ml.

n All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, please note that prices stated are RRP and may vary according to retailer. 125

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WEDDINGS

Mum’s the Word A Mothering Sunday proposal to the couple’s favourite tune was music to the ears of local bride Stacey. She and husband Tim married in The William Cecil at Stamford and after two deferred wedding dates, both agree that it was a case of third time lucky! Wedding Photographer: Barney Staniland, BGS Weddings, 07919 927105, www.bgsweddings.co.uk.

EVIDENTLY, the best things come to those who wait. That has certainly been the experience of Stacey and Tim Nicholls, who married in Stamford in autumn. Stacey is a shift manager at a local supermarket and when Tim came to work for her in the run up to the festive season their eyes met over Christmas puddings and panettone, leading to the couple getting together when he graduated from University and began working in the emergency services.

WEDDING SUPPLIERS STACEY & TIM

In 2019 the couple had their first child, which they named Tristan. Mothering Sunday that year, the three were rushing to get out of the house to enjoy Sunday lunch with their family and the first such day as parents, which as we all know is a tall order with changing bags, prams and so on.

“With Covid, it was a case of third time lucky,” says Stacey. “We eventually married in August but it was the third date we’d settled on, having cancelled the other two as we’d have had to restrict the guest list. Meanwhile I had been looking online and

“When Maria from the site, Bespoke Weddings, phoned to tell us we’d won venue hire and a bridal suite package, we were thrilled. We’d seen the venue, Stamford’s William Cecil, but thought it might be a bit expensive for the 60 day guests and 100 evening guests we had planned to invite.” “A few weeks later we had a second call and we’d been entered into the second round of the competition and also won a food and drinks package for 50 guests. That really freed up the budget for other elements of the wedding... so actually, the first couple of cancelled dates enabled us to win two rounds of the site’s competitions and to have our preferred number of guests without having to cut down the guest list. We were thrilled with The William Cecil, too. It was a lovely historic venue and the team were all super.”

The couple got together in 2016 and very soon Stacey was not so much suggesting a proposal, as issuing firm instructions to the effect. Happily, Tim delivered in perhaps the most touching way possible.

Tim, however, asked the family to take a few minutes to relax, and presented Stacey with her Mothering Sunday card. He also asked smart speaker Alexa to play their song, My Girl by The Temptations. In the card was a message from Tristan asking if she would marry Daddy. Naturally Stacey was thrilled and said yes immediately, and that day was more memorable than the family could ever have anticipated.

researching colours, venues and so on, during which I’d come across a particular website and had entered a competition.”

Wedding Ceremony & Reception: The William Cecil, Stamford, 01780 750070, www.hillbrookehotels.co.uk. Wedding Dress: Susan Nicholas Opulent Bridal (SNOB), March, 01354 680077, www.s-n-o-b.co.uk. Wedding Suits: A Formal Affair, 01733 260930, www.aformalaffair.co.uk. Country Kitchen Cakes: 07929 403352 www.countrykitchencakes.co.uk. Entertainment: The New Foundations, www.thenewfoundations.com. Photographer: BGS Weddings, 07919 927105, www.bgsweddings.co.uk.n

“The next decision I made was the dress. I had no idea what I wanted, but I visited Susan Nichols at Snob bridal in March and tried a few on. When I first put on the dress, I absolutely knew it was the one.” “It was an A-line dress by Mori Lee called Sabrina, and had a lace overlay and spaghetti straps. The men went to Formal Affair in Peterborough and chose deep blue suits that could be paired with blush pink.” “We worked with Keepsake Boutiques to artificial arrangements that would not only reflect the colour scheme but also provide us with something we could keep after the day. Our cake supplier, Country Kitchen Cakes, was based down the road in Weston, and created our cake, which was delicious!” >> 127

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WEDDINGS

“He also asked smart speaker Alexa to play their song, My Girl by The Temptations. In the card was a message from Tristan asking if she would marry Daddy.” >> “We had four bridesmaids: two of my friends, my sister and my cousin. Tim couldn’t decide between his two best men, so he had them both.” “One really lovely highlight of the reception was a soul and Motown band, called the New Foundations, based in Nottinghamshire. Naturally one of the songs they performed was My Girl!” “We’ve deferred the honeymoon but we did have a minimoon to The Spa at Barnham Broom as part of a visit to Norwich.” “It was a super day and we were so glad to be able to share it with all of our friends and family.” n Wedding Photographer: Barney Staniland, BGS Weddings, 07919 927105, www.bgsweddings.co.uk.

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Rutland Stamford Pride FEBRUARY 235.qxp 06/01/2022 16:01 Page 130

Kerry Stamp

INDEPENDENT

The Directory To advertise here call our friendly team on 01529 469977

CELEBRANT WEDDINGS VOW RENEWALS HAND FASTING BABY NAMING FUNERALS MEMORIALS

CARING, PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

01522 887782 07533 384094 kerrystampfe@gmail.com Trained with the International College of Professional Celebrants

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Rutland Stamford Pride FEBRUARY 235.qxp 06/01/2022 16:01 Page 132

Stamford Pride February 2022

Articles inside

WEDDINGS Stacey & Tim prove that the best things come to those who wait.

MOTORS A small but perfectly formed SUV from Porsche.

FASHION Skiwear that’s as smart as it is practical, plus winter cosmetics.

WILDLIFE An appeal for Rutland and Stamford’s gardeners to look out of the window and help with the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.

HOMES Cool, calm and collected neutral colours to give your home a relaxed new look.

WHAT’S ON February’s live events

BURGHLEY’S INTERIORS

STAMFORD’S MOST FAMOUS

DINING OUT Enjoying relaxed dining at The Crown in Uppingham.

THE FINEST ART A peek behind

RECIPES & WINE For Valentine’s Day

NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford. This month, a Royal visitor to Rutland and the return of the CiCle Classic.

SIMPLY DIVINE Celebrating the