Stamford Pride January 2022 by Pride Magazines Ltd

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PRIDE STAMFORD

STAMFORD’S FINEST MAGAZINE

THROUGH THE

SEASONS Look ahead to a year of fun and excitement in Stamford! We’ll think about all of the events and fun activities we’re anticipating, from pantomime fun in winter, to the return of the Burghley Horse Trials and summer theatre with the Stamford Shakespeare Company! Welcome to 2022!

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WELCOME

stensibly this is the January edition, but upon signing off this edition and pressing the big red button to get the presses rolling, it’ll still be December and my team and I will be getting ready to enjoy a well-earned rest. Undoubtedly this has been a tricky year to be a magazine editor as the usual summer entertainment and the events which punctuate the Rutland & Stamford calendar have been on a knife’s edge… ‘will they, or won’t they go ahead?’ At risk of looking back at this text a few months from now, and wincing at how out of kilter my radar was, we’ve put together in this edition a season by season reminder of what we can all enjoy in Rutland & Stamford once Covid is over, through the winter months, then into spring, summer and autumn. Let’s hope that all of the events that we missed last year – from the Rutland Show to the Burghley Horse Trials – are able to resume and that we can get back to celebrating the very best that the area has to offer. Speaking with restauranteurs recently, they’ve also had a fraught time, so it’s with great delight that we’re able to offer them a boost, too, by handing out our six Good Food Awards to this year’s winners. An early Christmas present and an encouragement for them all to keep the faith and look forward to a better year ahead. Best wishes, for a very happy new year!

Executive Editor robin@pridemagazines.co.uk 3

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

Robert E Wells RBA NEAC | St Pauls | Oil on Panel | 36″ x 36″

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

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49 CONTENTS NEWS & EVENTS

FOOD & DRINK

RECIPES A couple of delicious puddings to sweeten up your winter.

THE WINE CELLAR Fizz for your New Year’s Eve celebrations and a lovely whisky for Burn’s Night.

NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford. This month, a Roman find in Rutland causes excitement. WHAT’S ON January’s live events.

HIGHLIGHTS 19

THROUGH THE SEASONS In what we’re hoping will soon be a Covid-free year, we’re looking forward to winter, spring, summer and autumn’s events and highlights.

SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES Independent education with primary and secondary schools plus colleges and universities.

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THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS This month we’re revealing the winners of our 2021 Good Food Awards; the restaurants and food producers voted for by our readers as being the best in the area.

HOMES & GARDENS 72

WELCOME HOME An incredible modern property that’s right in the heart of Stamford.

HOMES Welcome in winter with the latest home furnishings.

FASHION & LIFESTYLE 106 WEDDINGS The best things come to those who wait... just ask Chloe and Joe, this month’s featured couple.

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FASHION Beautiful party dresses for New Year’s Eve, plus the latest red-themed cosmetics.

122 MOTORS Luxury and practicality, from an all-new Range Rover.

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24 THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN THE AREA READ PRIDE MAGAZINE

READ

FREE ONLINE

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

THE PRIDE TEAM Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson. 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.

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

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

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NEWS & EVENTS

Landowner’s Roman find in Rutland ACHILLES MOSAIC IS THE MOST EXCITING FIND IN A CENTURY, SAY ARCHAEOLOGISTS RUTLAND Anyone who’s laboured hard in the garden this year will be able to relate to uncovering bits and bobs in the soil as you’re working in the garden. But for one Rutland landowner, a family ramble and a bit of digging led to the most significant archaeological find in over a century. During the 2020 lockdown, Jim Irvine and his family were out for a ramble in the fields of their farm (the media has been asked not to say where, exactly), and discovered a pattern in the ground, followed by some stonework. “Finding some unusual pottery among the wheat piqued my interest and prompted some further investigative work,” says Jim. “Later, looking at the satellite imagery I spotted a very clear crop mark, as if someone had drawn on my computer screen with a piece of chalk. This really was the ‘oh wow’

moment, and the beginning of the story.” Jim had uncovered the first example of a Roman mosaic featuring Achilles to be found in the UK, measuring 11m x 7m, likely to date back to the 3rd or 4th century AD. The mosaic was created in what it’s thought was the dining or entertaining area in a large villa. Unusually, it depicts Achilles’ battle with Hector at the conclusion of the Trojan war, which is seldom seen in other works. The mosaic and surrounding villa complex have now been protected as a Scheduled Monument by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on the advice of Historic England. The University of Leicester’s archaeology department is working alongside Historic England to research the site further. n

Closure of Birdfair... DR ANTHONY BIDDLE OF THE LRWT CONFIRMS THE END OF BIRDWATCHERS’ GLASTONBURY

RUTLAND Last month saw the announcement that Rutland’s Birdfair would not be returning to the county post-Covid. “For over 30 years, LRWT, supported by its staff, volunteers and members, has been proud to run this internationally-renowned event,” says Dr Anthony Biddle of the LRWT. “Working with the RSPB, we have brought thousands of visitors to Rutland Water for three days each August, and overall have raised more than £5 million for overseas projects run via the Birdlife International group of charities.”

The impact of Covid, the carbon footprint generated by the event and concern about the impact the event might be having on the reserve itself are all factors in the event’s closure. “Although we are bringing Birdfair to a close, we’re pleased to be able to announce a donation of £15,005 to Birdlife International. This amount is made up of direct donations and auction proceeds in aid of their Helmeted Hornbill conservation project supported by our Virtual Birdfair in 2020,” says Anthony. n

EVENT WILL FEATURE ON COUNTRYFILE

Fame at last for the little town of Uppingham, as BBC’s Countryfile prepares to broadcast 2021’s Fatstock event on TV as Pride goes to press. The show was filming at the event, with presenter Adam Henson saying he was impressed by the sight of the traditional livestock market held in the town. “It’s a lovely event to come and see and I’m impressed by the turnout, said Adam. “It showcases history and reminds us to not forget the past.” UPPINGHAM

The show is a traditional livestock market and used to be a way for farmers to show off their beef, lamb and pork, which would be awarded prizes and could then command higher prices as local butchers bid for the best beasts. If an animal won first prize, their rosette would be displayed in the butcher’s shop, proving to customers that they were buying the best possible meat. This year around 20 cattle, 200 sheep and 25 pigs were displayed. n

A fundraising run for Steve MUM WHOSE FIANCÉ DIED ONE DAY AFTER PROPOSAL RAISES £11,024 FOR BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION...

PRIDE Another slice? Why not... it’s for charity after all. Last month the Pride team enjoyed a pyjama and dressing gown day and made cakes to sell in the office for the BBC’s Children In Need. The surprise best seller turned out to be Abbi Moon’s delicious vegan chocolate cake, and the team managed to raise £60, contributing to the charity’s £39,389,048. n

LEICESTERSHIRE A Leicestershire mum whose fiancé tragically died just one day after he proposed to her is fundraising for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in his memory. Danielle Watts, was left devastated when fiancé Steve Booth, who played for Leicester Tigers, suddenly died in August 2019 aged just 42. Steve had been living with coronary heart disease and leaves behind daughter Maisie, now 11 and son Jack, aged eight. His widow, Danielle, and four friends last month took on the Winter Wolf Run and raised over £11,000 in Steve’s memory. n See www.justgiving.com/d-watts11.

£250,000

Fame for Fatstock

Pride team have their cake for BBC Children in Need 2021...

STAMFORD South Kesteven District Council has been allocated £250,000 from the Government’s Reopening High Streets Safely ‘welcome back’ fund to deliver initiatives and activities designed to help the recovery of town centres. The cash will be used for a marketing and promotions campaign involving a range of community and visitor events in Stamford. n

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LOCAL

NEWS In Brief STAMFORD x

Luxury country clothing retailer Fairfax & Favor celebrates opening in Stamford... If you’re hoping to put your best foot forward in 2022, then Fairfax & Favor’s new shop at 55 High Street in Stamford is the place to be. The new shop will open in early December and Marcus Fairfax Fountaine and Felix Favor Parker, co-founders of luxury British footwear and accessories brand will be there to help VIPs discover why they have chosen to open their second ever brick and mortar shop in Stamford. For more information see www.fairfax andfavor.com. 11

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BURTON COGGLES, LINCOLNSHIRE Guide Price £1,500,000

A substantial, Victorian house with six bedrooms occupies a private, tranquil plot of almost exactly an acre amongst the small rural community of Burton Coggles in the rolling landscape of Southwest Lincolnshire. With the A1 about four miles to the west and Grantham and its train station, where fast services to London Kings Cross are approx. one hour, just a ten-minute drive away, this offers a country lifestyle with lots of space as well as an easy commute. Presented in good order, the current owners have lived here almost seven years having carried out refurbishments to the property using quality materials and fittings. Rooms are generous in size with high ceilings, and the sash windows allow in a great deal of light. The large, well established, private garden has big sunny lawns and mature trees giving a pleasing backdrop around the hedged boundaries. An expansive gravel drive offers parking for several vehicles, whilst behind the house is a spacious terrace.

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

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

fineandcountry.com

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BARROWDEN, RUTLAND Guide Price £695,500

225 offices across Great Britain Plus 75 offices globally

This charming, yellow stone property nestles in the pretty Rutland village of Barrowden, circa 6 miles east of Uppingham and approximately 8 miles from Stamford. Recently restored by the present owners, the living space includes a sitting room, dining room, study and an added glass and oak extension accommodating a farmhouse style kitchen / breakfast room with access onto the paved patio terrace. Upstairs, the principal bedroom benefits from an en suite bathroom whilst the further two bedrooms share a family bathroom. Outside, a large, paved, off-road parking area is situated to the front of the house, whilst to the rear is a sunny patio terrace as well as a small, secluded lawn garden.

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Guide Price £1,300,000

Guide Price £800,000

The Croft, Halstead

Keythorpe Court, Tugby

The Croft is a superb ﬁve bedroom country home sitting on a generous plot of approximately three acres with far-reaching views over the countryside to the South.

A handsome and charming country home in need of modernisation sitting in an elevated position within approx. 2.5 acres of its own grounds, with far reaching views over the Leicestershire countryside.

Offers In Excess of £700,000

Offers In Excess of £450,000

Tudor Cottage, Thorpe by Water

72 High Street, Gretton

A well-presented, three-bedroom detached property with ample off-road parking, double garaging and a private South-facing rear garden.

A characterful and authentic property with a wealth of period features and beautiful gardens sitting at the heart of this historic North Northamptonshire village.

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Luxury lodges, great fun and a superb return on investment!

.! .. e f li d o o g e th in t Inves

Live on site all year round, achieve great rental returns or retain your lodge for family & friends to enjoy. Four fantastic sites including Tallington Lakes, Tanner Farm Park, Thorney and Great Hadham On-site watersports and leisure facilities, beautiful surroundings

www.goodlifelodge.com • info@goodlifelodge.com • 0800 564 2266 • Barholm Road, Tallington, PE9 4RJ

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THROUGH THE SEASONS

THROUGH THE

SEASONS January is a time to look ahead and to anticipate all of the joy and unique experiences that each of the four seasons can offer those who live and work in Rutland & Stamford. This month we’ll set out our plan to enjoy the next 12 months right here in the county! Words: Rob Davis.

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WINTER JANUARY’S KATHERINE OF ARAGON FESTIVAL

The Katharine of Aragon Festival commemorates 29th January 1536... 28th JAN 2022 Peterborough Cathedral has a sort of heroine in residence in the form of Katherine of Aragon. The first wife of Henry VIII is buried in a tomb in Peterborough Cathedral and is the subject of a series of commemorative services surrounding by pomegranates (which were her heraldic symbol), acknowledging her role as the first wife of the Tudor king.

Though originally betrothed to VII, Katherine married Henry VIII in 1509 and by all accounts the marriage was happy, not withstanding her inability to produce a male heir. Henry and Katherine’s marriage was annulled in 1533 and Henry embarked on an equally ill-fated marriage to Anne Boleyn, resulting in the latter losing her head. Sadly, in addition to being cast aside from the King, Katherine – latterly styled the Dowager Princess of Wales – was also to die just three years later, most likely of cancer. Henry considered that a burial in London might be considered embarrassing and so she was instead buried at Peterborough Abbey. Her tomb was vandalised by Cromwell in 1643 and reinterred in the Cathedral with a new plaque created in 1895. n

Find Out More: The Katherine of Aragon Festival takes place from 28th-30th January 2022 at Peterborough Cathedral, see www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk for more details.

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JOIN IN THIS SEASON’S RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH 28th JAN 2022 This month Rutland & Stamford residents are being encouraged to spend an hour in their garden to help the RSPB complete the UK’s biggest survey of bird populations. From 28th-30th January the charity’s Big Garden Birdwatch asks participants to complete a 60-minute survey in their garden, on a balcony or in a local park to count the number of common species. The ‘crowd-counting’ survey will not only identify birds but will allow regional species variations to be observed too. Last year’s survey named the House Sparrow Britain’s most common bird and saw over 17,000,000 birds being counted by volunteers in total across the UK. www.rspb.org.uk

CELEBRATING THE SCOTTISH POET

LUNCH FOR LESS IN RUTLAND

22nd JANUARY 2022 The best laid plans of mice and men ‘gang aft a-gley,’ but not at Barnsdale Lodge where the diligent team are old hands when it comes to hosting events like its forthcoming Burn’s Night Supper. The area’s largest celebration of the poet Robert Burns features a four course meal of – what else – cock-a-leekie soup, haggis served with neeps and tatties, plus Scottish beef cheeks. The evening features the usual entertainment such as piping in the haggis, plus a Ceilidh dance and a party band too. n 01572 724678, barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

JANUARY & FEBRUARY Winter time in Rutland means delicious dining of hearty winter favourites, and what could be better than discounted dining? Lunch for Even Less is a Rutland tradition which sees restaurants including Hambleton Hall, The Olive Branch, Hitchen’s Barn, Oakham, The Wheatsheaf and Wing’s King’s Arms offer discounted dining for weekday lunchtime service, traditionally a less busy time for the hospitality trade in winter. For menus, terms and prices, we recommend paying a visit to each participating restaurant’s website. n

FIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES: We’re mostly looking forward to...

n Log Fires & Agas: Is there any cosier heat or better scent than that from a real fire? Warm your bare feet in front of a proper fire! n A Sunday Roast: When 2,000 people were surveyed, 45% said their favourite family meal is a family roast. Roast beef for us please! n Walking in Winter: From that crisp air to the feeling of snow underfoot, we adore a winter walk on a Sunday afternoon. n Dark Nights: Some people think dark nights are gloomy. As for us? We love the early dusks and the inky black night skies! n Planning a Holiday: One of the profound pleasures of winter is fantasising about – then booking – a summer getaway!

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WINTER VISIT A PANTO THIS WINTER!

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Stamford Pantomime Players...

This winter the county’s arts centres and theatres will host their annual pantomimes, with scripts packed with the usual bawdiness and clichés – ‘he’s behind you’ and ‘oh no he isn’t’ spring straight to mind. The modern day pantomime can trace its heritage back to Commedia dell’Arte during the Renaissance in Italy. From around the 17th century, Scaramouche, Pierrot and Punch were all established characters, and originally their appearances were set to music. Voices were actually banned in Victorian pantomimes until 1843 and a change in licensing restriction – The Theatres Act. Gender switching and the general bawdiness were designed to capitalise on the success of the music hall’s most successful characters like Vesta Tilley, and by the late 1800s and early 1900s, pantomime, in the form we now know it, was established. n Above: Stamford Pantomime Players mark their 70th anniversary this season.

“He’s behind you...!” Panto fun in Lincolnshire This month sees a range of pantomime performances taking places across the county... n 11th December - 3rd January 2022: Sleeping Beauty awakes to find herself starring in DeMontfort Hall’s 2021 pantomime. Call 0116 233 3111 or see demontforthall.co.uk. n 15th December - 30th December 2021: Magical panto fun at Peterborough’s New Theatre with Aladdin. Call 01733 852992 or see www.newtheatre-peterborough.com. n 27th December - 1st January 2022: Dick Whittington at Stamford’s Corn Exchange, is the 70th anniversary show of the Stamford Pantomime Players. The group’s first 1951 show is rebooted here for the 21st century. 01780 766455, www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk n 7th January - 16th January 2022: New Year pantomime fun at Stamford Arts centre with Cinderella and her fairy godmother. 01780 763 203, www.stamfordartscentre.com.

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DO YOU WANT TO...

BUILD A SNOWMAN?

Over 92% of people admit they love creating figures in the snow – although 87% doubt their ability!

IN THE GARDEN

IN DECEMBER: Prune fruit trees, plant new trees and bushes, and use the time to generally clean up and tidy the garden. n IN JANUARY: Sow seeds for lettuce, summer brassicas and salads, feed the birds and shred that Christmas tree to create compost. n IN FEBRUARY: Divide snowdrops and aconites to create new clusters. Start to chit potatoes and prepare veg beds. n

ON THE TABLE WINTER means locally shot game – partridge, pheasant, and rabbit – or perhaps venison. Casseroles and lovely slow-cooked stews, please, served with warm crusty bread soaked in melted butter. For pudding? You can’t really beat the old favourites; a heavy, suet-ey jam roly poly with lashings of custard, homemade, not from a carton or packet. Delicious! n

Building frozen figures is snow joke for academic Dr James Hind, who works for Nottingham Trent University. The maths boffin has perfected an academic formula for the creation of a ‘perfect’ snowman which takes in several variables when assessing snowman supremacy, including height, number and diameters of snowball tiers, freshness and purity of snow, accessories, outdoor temperature and the ‘golden ratio’ Phi (φ), which is used as a marker for beauty and determines the visual appeal of objects. The formula states that each ball of snow must be in proportion, expressed in the formula Head = φ x Chest, Chest = φ x Legs. That translates into three balls of snow measuring 80cm, 50cm and 30cm respectively. Dr Hind has concluded that the ‘perfect’ snowman is 1.62m in height, wears just three accessories – a hat, scarf and gloves – and has eyes 5cm apart plus a carrot nose that’s 4cm long.

According to the criteria, Jack Frost from the 1998 film of the same name scores 80 points in terms of adherence to the formula. The Snowman from Raymond Briggs’ 1978 animation scores 73 points; Frosty the Snowman from 1969 scores 49 points. Right at the bottom is poor Olaf from Disney’s Frozen based on the 1844 fairytale of The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen. Olaf scores just 15 points. According to a survey by home insurance company More Than, 92% of British people love making a snowman, but 87% say they don’t feel confident in their ‘snowmanufacturing.’ More practise is needed, it seems, but of the 23.7 days of snowfall or sleet during an average year (the average was taken between 1981 and 2010) the UK has only 15.6 days when the snow has settled on the ground. The most severe snow in the UK was seen between 22nd January and 17th March in 1947, and in June (yes, June!) 1975. n

WEATHERWATCH SUNSHINE & PRECIPITATION: DECEMBER: 46mm 8.2cm 49hrs JANUARY: 47mm 24.4cm 58hrs FEBRUARY: 35mm 10.8cm 77hrs

RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES: DECEMBER: HIGH 8°C, LOW 2°C JANUARY: HIGH 7°C, LOW 2°C FEBRUARY: HIGH 8°C, LOW 2°C

SUNRISE & SUNSET: 1st DECEMBER: 14th DECEMBER: 1st JANUARY: 14th JANUARY: 1st FEBRUARY: 14th FEBRUARY:

07.42 07.56 08.03 07.58 07.36 07.14

15.57 15.53 16.04 16.21 16.51 17.15

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SPRING A (BELATED) 50th ANNIVERSARY OF POLO IN RUTLAND... 1st & 2nd MARCH 2022 This spring sees the belated 50th anniversary of Polo in Rutland as the Rutland Polo Club reminisces upon the club’s formation back in 1971. The Spring Cup precedes other tournaments from the Horsefeeds Cup, Westerby Assam as well as two Women in Polo events, the Millerta Plate and Escalina Cup. The club was formed when eight friends including Edwin de Lisle were seeking equestrian amusement during the summer months when other horseback pursuits are out of season.

Top: Summer marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of Rutland Polo Club. Fixtures commence in March. Above: Edwin de Lisle is one of eight founder members of Rutland Polo Club, now based in Langham.

The nearest club to Rutland at that time was Melton Mowbray, after a previous Rutland club ceased to play during the 1930s. The group started a new club in 1971 and a year later it was recognised by the sport’s governing body, the Hurlingham Polo Association. The sports comprises four players per team each playing four chukkas of about seven and a half minutes in duration. Today, Rutland Polo Club has 15 fixtures planned for 2021, the flagship of which is its Westerby Assam Cup tournament. “Shortly after the formation of the club, the first trophy now known as the Assam Cup was gifted to us by Mr and Mrs Ian Leetham,” says Edwin. “Play was originally at Luffenham Airfield and then moved to Cream Gorse and Oakham Showground,” says Edwin. “In 1993 we gave up renting the Rutland Showground and made a permanent polo ground at Langham.” The club’s anniversary will be celebrated with a week of sport in from 13th to 18th July, halfway through the polo season. n 07470198645, www.rutlandpoloclub.co.uk

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SPRING WALKS What could be better than a spring walk through Clipsham’s Yew Tree Avenue? The woodland is over 200 years old and consists of 150 clipped trees. It was originally created in 1870 by Amos Alexander who was the head gardener of the estate, then owned by John Davenport Handley. It was in the 1950s that David Davenport Handley let the woodland out to the Forestry Commission to enable to public to enjoy it, but work to maintain the avenue stalled following budget cuts until a local interest group raised the necessary money to maintain the site. Clipsham Yew Tre Avenue is now looking splendid and is free for the public to enjoy, ideal for enjoying a spring walk! n

WELCOME HOME

Top Right: The Westerby Assam Cup is the club’s flagship prize. Right: Polo matches comprise four chukkas seven and a half minutes long.

RUTLAND’S ANNUAL GOOD & NEW SALE Friday 4th - Saturday 5th March 2022 EVERY SPRING local charity For Rutland In Rutland hosts its Good & New sale of new and quality pre-enjoyed clothes, which usually raises in excess of £50,000 for the charity from its 70 rails of clothing and accessories. The event takes place at Barnsdale Lodge and the first evening is a VIP ticket-only event with ‘first dibs’ and complimentary Champagne and canapés kindly supplied by Hambleton Hall. n

March sees Rutland’s osprey population returning to the county in time for World Osprey Week from 14th to 18th March. Translocation of the species, which was all but extinct in England, began in 1996 and the first chick was born in the county in 2001. Today over 200 chicks have fledged at Rutland Water and quite wisely the birds spend the colder months in Africa rather than here in England. Their return in March after travelling 3,000 miles is a treat for keen bird enthusiasts who enjoy watching the birds until their departure in August. n

AQUA PARK If you’ve youngsters in the family, they’ll likely be quite excited by the prospect of the return of Aqua Park Rutland, which will reopen in May. The attraction features the largest collection of bespoke big impact water obstacles at Rutland Water is open right through to September. Also expected to make a return this year is Rutland Water’s 140m artificial beach. n

07710 873811, www.forrutland.org.uk.

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SPRING NATIONAL MILLS WEEKEND 2022

The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings hosts British Mill Weekend to celebrate Britain’s 300 historic mills 7th 8th MAY 2022 British Mill Weekend takes place in Spring to encourage people to visit and to get to know better these historic buildings with their industrial legacy. Rutland was once home to Stamford’s Mid-Lent Fair will take place from 28th March in Bath Row at least eight and Broad Street, with over 100 windmills, of rides plus food and drink outlets. It follows two years of which just two Rutland’s Nigel Moon is cancellation due remain. to Covid. the owner and miller of Whissendine Windmill Whissendine Windmill. was purchased by Nigel Moon and restored in 1995. The building Meanwhile, Wymondham was built for the Earl of Harborough of Windmill is currently undergoing Stapleford Park in 1809 and remained in restoration by Vincent and Sarah working condition until April 1922 when it Jayne Fletcher and will also open was damaged in a gale. 100 years on, you for National Mills Weekend. n can again see the mill in full working order.

All the fun of the fair!

Pick your own berries in Rutland May sees bumper berries available right on your doorstep... 1st MAY 2022 We tend to think of strawberries as a high-summer food, treat, but officially May 1st is the beginning of strawberry season. The British Strawberry market, specifically, is worth £775m a year and the berry industry more broadly is worth £1.69bn. 70% of all strawberries purchased in the UK are grown by British farmers, and the season is about six week long, although this becoming longer. In Rutland and Stamford, we’d advise heading to Hill Farm Pick Your Own, Oundle Road, Peterborough, to Rutland Water Fruit Farm, Edith Weston, Oakham and to Seldom Seen Farm, Green Lane, Billesdon, Leicestershire. n

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HOW FARMERS & SMALLHOLDERS

HELP A EWE GIVE BIRTH

Ever wondered what happens when a ewe in the throes of labour is in distress? Here’s some insight on how to intervene from shepherdess Sophie Arlott “Nothing prepares you for it,” says Sophie Arlott, shepherdess near Stamford who, has over 200 of her unique Lavinton ewes in lamb. “To the uninitiated it’s just a mass of lamb; it’s difficult to work out what and where everything is.” “Thankfully, nine times out of ten ewes present with the nose and two little hooves poking out of mum and they give birth naturally, with little or no intervention. The next most common scenario, though, is when a ewe presents with one leg forward and one tucked under the head.” “In this scenario, we use as much lubricant as possible and try to manoeuvre a finger under the leg which is facing back to pull it up and out.” “If both legs are tucked under the head – a position known as being hung – that’s more serious, and any long labour will see blood rush to the lamb’s head, which puts stress on the youngster, so in this

IN THE GARDEN

IN MARCH: Plant summer bulbs like lilies, freesias and crocosmia, deadhead spring bulbs and sow summer perennials. n IN APRIL: Sow hardy annuals like poppies, and marigolds, plant out sweet peas, plant new evergreens and shrubs. n IN MAY: Plant up summer hanging baskets, tie in roses, trim lavender and prune, feed plants with slow-release fertiliser and sow new potato crops. n

ON THE TABLE SPRING dining typically puts one in mind of new season lamb, but in fact, hogget (lamb from an older sheep, typically over a year old) is often more flavoursome, if not as tender. Spring also brings asparagus, the British crop of which is considered available from St George’s Day (23rd April). New potatoes are available from April, and salad leaves are at their best snipped from the garden. n

circumstance it’s sometimes necessary to push the lamb back into its mum – again using lots of lubricant – then manoeuvre it into a better birthing position.” Normally labour lasts about half an hour, but a distressed labour can last up to four hours and makes intervention from an experienced vet essential. n

NB: This information is JUST hypothetical and is only for interest’s sake... unless you really know what you’re doing and you’re a vet, farmer or smallholder, we absolutely DON’T advocate giving medical assistance to an animal.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY...

WEATHERWATCH SUNSHINE & PRECIPITATION: MARCH: APRIL: MAY:

40mm 2.7cm 107hrs 40mm ZERO 160hrs 45mm ZERO 181hrs

RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE

n 8th MARCH 2022: International Women’s Day. 2022’s theme is #BreakTheBias.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES:

n 18th MARCH 2022: Comic Relief/Red Nose Day. Last year’s event raised £52,025,485.

n 22nd MARCH 2022: National Day of Reflection, Marie Curie’s pandemic awareness day.

MARCH: APRIL: MAY:

n 27th MARCH 2022: Mothering Sunday... don’t forget to order mum a bunch of flowers!

SUNRISE & SUNSET:

n 17th MARCH 2022: St Patrick’s Day, during which 13m pints of Guinness will served.

n 27th MARCH 2022: Daylight Saving Time begins, and the clocks go forward one hour.

n 1st APRIL 2022: April Fool’s Day, originating from Chanticleer in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.

n 15th APRIL 2022: Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus.

n 17th APRIL 2022: Easter Sunday. Palm Sunday is the week before; 10th April.

n 23rd APRIL 2022: St George’s Day, and the day in which asparagus is in season!

n 30th MAY 2022: Start of National Barbecue Week; 150m barbecues are held annually!

1st MARCH: 14th MARCH: 1st APRIL: 14th APRIL: 1st MAY: 14th MAY:

HIGH 12°C, LOW 5°C HIGH 15°C, LOW 6°C HIGH 18°C, LOW 9°C

06.43 06.14 06.33 06.04 05.30 05.07

17.42 18.04 19.34 19.56 20.25 20.45

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SUMMER CELEBRATING MULTUM IN PARVO:

THE RETURN OF THE SHOW The Rutland Show is back after a two year absence, celebrating the best local food, agriculture and entertainment on Saturday 4th June 2022... 4th JUNE 2022 It’s the flagship agricultural event of the summer, attracting 12,000 visitors and covering over 150 acres. This year is the 188th Rutland Show, and will cover 13 fields and include over 50 shire horses plus 1,000 livestock and equine entries. Even pre-Covid, some country shows found themselves ailing, but the Rutland Show is alive and in rude health, having moved to is current premises of the county’s showground in 2014. The origins of the show date back to 1788 and the first organiser of the event was the Earl of Winchelsea, whose country seat in the area was at Burley on the Hill. The first event took place at a riding stable on

Catmos Street in 1831 and took place in December, attended by a modest 500 people. The show then moved to Barleythorpe and a 17-acre site which was owned by Rutland County Council. In 1976 it moved to Burley on the Hill where the event remained until it outgrew the site and moved to its current and hopefully permanent location. The last Rutland Show prior to Covid was a rather rainy affair, so this year we’re hoping for sunshine and blue skies. The show’s main ring entertainment will include birds of prey, equine entertainment and more, whilst 220 trade exhibitors and food stalls mean the very best of the county will be showcased proving that Rutland really does offer ‘much in little.’ n

Above: This year’s Rutland Show takes place on 4th June 2022, and Rutland Pride will be enjoying its usual position overlooking the Main Ring, so pop along and say hello to the team!

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A WHOLE SUMMER OF EVENTS AT BURGHLEY HOUSE 3rd - 5th JUNE 2022 Living Heritage presents the best of falconry, fishing and food at the Burghley Game & Country Fair which takes place in early June. Tickets £15, see livingheritagecountryshows.com. n 11th JUNE 2022 Race for Life, meanwhile at Burghley House this summer and show your support for those affected by cancer. The event includes routes of varying lengths for any levels of fitness. n 1st - 3rd JULY 2022 The greatest motoring marque in the world is celebrated this summer at Burghley House as Rolls Royce and Bentley motor cars hold their annual concours event in the estate’s parkland... the event attracts around 2,000 motor cars! See www.rroc.org. n 30th JULY 2022 Iconic contemporary anthems reinvented by the Urban Soul Orchestra... this is a summer concert for grownups! See www.classicibiza.co.uk n

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? MAY TO JULY Each spring, the National Gardens Scheme publishes its ‘yellow book,’ a guide to 3,500 gardens across the UK that you can visit. Most gardens are open between May and July, and in Rutland & Stamford there’s a vast number of garden highlights to enjoy. Highlights include Burghley House’s South Gardens alongside its Sculpture Garden and Gardens of Surprise, plus Burley’s Old Vicarage, Harringworth’s Old Vicarage 59 Thistleton Road (below) and Sue Moffitt’s stunning Redhill Lodge in Barrowden. For specific openings and dates, see www.ngs.org.uk. n

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SUMMER STAMFORD SHAKESPEARE RETURNS IN 2022 Four productions revealed for this summer’s live theatre at Tolethorpe...

THE NUANCE & BEAUTY OF LANGUAGE will forever be expressed in Shakespeare’s 38 plays and 154 sonnets and poems. They were never meant to be read, only performed, and so the only real way to enjoy his work is to see it performed live.

Stamford Pride Event

Stamford’s Diversity Festival will be Tolethorpe Hall joined in the August Bank Holiday by is, for many, a Stamford Pride, an LGBT+ event not to be confused with the summer pilgrimname of the area’s finest age which provides magazine. the changes to see authentic performances with exceptional production values.

More than 1,000,000 people have seen the Stamford Shakespeare Company perform since its establishment in 1971, and this May, June and July, you can enjoy the Bard’s classic Romeo & Juliet, plus Nöel Coward’s

comic Hay Fever, Agatha Christie’s Spider’s Web and William Golding’s Lord of the Flies. Each performance is the result of 500 hours of rehearsals and the efforts of 100 volunteers. n

Return of Burghley’s Battle Proms A stirring classical music program, firework and cavalry displays... 9th JULY 2022 Its really doesn’t matter whether early July in Stamford brings torrential rain or bright sunshine. You’ll still see around 8,000 people enjoying the backdrop of Burghley House and a rousing programme of classical music. The Battle Proms is compéred by Pam Rhodes and the main programme is preceded by Napoleonic mounted battle displays. Last year’s Battle Proms event also featured the Battle Proms Belles with their wartime covers, and the British Army’s Red Devils parachute team also ‘dropped in’ to entertain crowds. A climactic 193 live cannon accompaniment to Beethoven’s Battle Symphony plus spectacular fireworks are a great finale! n Call 01432 355 416 or see www.battleproms.com.

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HOW TO MEET THE QUEEN...

A ROYAL APPOINTMENT If you happen upon the monarch, it’s good to know the correct etiquette, so we’ve put together some royal pointers for a memorable meeting with the monarch! 2rd JUNE 2022 2022 will see a year long series of Platinum Jubilee celebrations to mark HM Queen Elizabeth II’s 70th year on the throne, having ascended on 6th Feb 1952 at just 25 years of age. Thursday 2nd June to Sunday 2th June will provide an extended bank holiday, the lighting of Jubilee Beacons, a Trooping of the Colour with 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians, plus a Service of Thanksgiving on Friday 3rd June and Platinum Party at the Palace on Saturday 4th June and a Big Jubilee Lunch on Sunday 5th June. A Jubilee Pageant will also take place, featuring 5,000 people on Buckingham Palace Road. If you’re lucky enough to be in the vicinity of Her Majesty during her Jubilee year, you’ll need to be mindful of established etiquette when meeting the monarch.

Wait until being presented to The Queen and in the first instance, address her as Your Majesty. Subsequently, the correct form of address is Ma’am – rhyming with ham, not arm. Turning your back on The Queen or touching her (e.g.: trying to shake her hand) is frowned upon unless she presents her hand to shake. Men are obliged to perform a simple neck bow – not a full on theatrical bow – whilst women may curtsy: again, a slight bob; you’re not in a limbo competition. Stand when The Queen stands, never eat before Her Majesty starts to dine, never ask for autographs or selfies or take photographs of the engagement, and when The Queen moves her handbag from the left arm to the right arm, that’s a signal that the conversation is over, and never eat garlic prior to meeting The Queen... it’s her pet hate! n

IN THE GARDEN

IN MAY: Plant up hanging baskets, and plant out summer bedding plants and tender annuals – sunflowers, cosmos, nasturtiums. Prune spring shrubs. n

IN JUNE: Keep on top of weeding, deadhead roses and poppies, harvest lavender to use in baking and crafting, enjoy salad crops and the first potatoes. n IN JULY: Continue to deadhead bedding plants and perennials. n

ON THE TABLE SUMMER Plenty of rain after new potato crops are planted in March or April means a bumper crop of larger tates in May and June. Tomatoes are one of the easiest and most enjoyable fruits of vegetables to grow in your own garden. Enjoy pick your own soft fruit like strawberries and raspberries too. July is also National Picnic Month, so enjoy some al fresco family dining too! n

WEATHERWATCH SUNSHINE & PRECIPITATION: MAY: JUNE: JULY:

47mm 2.7cm 181hrs 47mm ZERO 181hrs 41mm ZERO 192hrs

RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES: MAY: JUNE: JULY:

HIGH 18°C, LOW 9°C HIGH 21°C, LOW 12°C HIGH 23°C, LOW 14°C

SUNRISE & SUNSET: 1st MAY: 14th MAY: 1st JUNE: 14th JUNE: 1st JULY: 14th JULY:

05.30 05.07 04.46 04.40 04.45 04.57

20.25 20.45 21.10 21.21 21.23 21.14

31 31

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AUTUMN THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 1st - SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 4th

BURGHLEY’S HORSE TRIALS BEATING RETREAT SEPTEMBER Oakham will also

celebrate the role of the Armed Forces in September with its Beating the Retreat parade. Taking place in the town’s Market Place, the event is held in aid of the soldier’s charity ABF. Beating Retreat has its origins in the early years of organised warfare when the beating of drums and the parading of Post Guards heralded the closing of camp gates and the lowering of flags at the end of the day. An order from the army of James II of England had his drums beating an order for his troops to retreat and a later order, from William III in 1694, read: ‘The Drum Major and Drummers of the Regiment which gives a Captain of the Main Guard are to beat the Retreat through the large street, or as may be ordered. They are to be answered by all the Drummers of the guards, and by four Drummers of each Regiment in their respective Quarters’. Rutland’s annual event typically raises over £1,000 for Leicestershire and Rutland ABF, The Soldiers Charity. n

The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials returns for 2022 with the event’s brand new Director Martyn Johnson promising to make the show a huge success... 1st SEPTEMBER 2022 Among the casualties of the Covid era was the Burghley Horse Trials, cancelled for two years. The sheer scale of the undertaking that is bringing The Burghley Horse Trials to Stamford can’t be understated. Not only is the event is a country show in its own right, Burghley remains a world class sporting fixture, one of only five-star FEI affiliated events in the world, and one of the three events alongside Badminton and the Kentucky which constitute the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. The event attracts over 173,000 people and has over 600 retail stands in addition to welcoming 80 eventing competitors.

Following the retirement from the event of Elizabeth Inman, the event’s Director for 2022 and beyond will be Martyn Johnson. “Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials is an iconic event at a superb venue with so much history. I am honoured to take on the role of Event Director and am looking forward to working closely with all at Burghley to deliver the 2022 event and beyond.” “While respecting the traditions of the event and what is evidently successful, I am excited about exploring new ideas in the future to complement what is already great about one of the world’s premier equestrian sporting occasions,” he says. n See www.burghley-horse.co.uk.

FUNGI FORAY OCTOBER There’s little that mycologist Paul Nichol doesn’t know about mushrooms, which is a jolly good thing because there are over 50 poisonous mushroom species in the country and over 15 of those are truly deadly. Happily, on Hambleton Hall’s annual Mushroom Hunt – AKA the Fungi Foray – your guide will provide an interesting and amusing tour of which varieties you’ll find in and around Rutland’s woodland. There follows exceptional dining with mushroom-themed dishes at Hambleton Hall, courtesy of head chef Aaron Patterson and his brigade.n www.hambletonhall.com

Above: David Flatman and Zara Tindall with Zara’s horse High Kingdom in 2019. Right: Nicola Wilson on Opposition Buzz at the 2019 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials.

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AUTUMN UPPINGHAM’S FATSTOCK

One of the few festive fatstock events to survive, Uppingham’s Fatstock is a November tradition...

Below: Uppingham Fatstock, Chairman of the Show is Charlie Mason, seen here second left.

the event comprised 14 classes in total 23rd NOVEMBER 2022 A Fatstock event was a including seven cattle classes, four sheep tradition in most market towns in a bygone classes, and three for pigs, with more than era. The event was a chance for local farm245 animals exhibited in the centre of ers to show off their livestock and for local Uppingham. butchers to bid for the best beasts – after Former patrons include the Duke of Rutland prizes for the best examples were awarded – and the Marquess of Exeter, so perhaps to display in their window, tempting today’s nobility will offer a similar degree of shoppers to reserve their meat ready for support to the Show for its return next year. Christmas. Charlie Mason has served as the event’s The first such event took place in Secretary since 1997 and its Chairman since Uppingham in 1889, and was disrupted only 2013 and is justifiably proud of the event by the presence of the two wars and a and its place in the calendar. couple of outbreaks of “It shows the area is proud of notifiable diseases. its farming heritage, proud of Celebrating local In 1949, a group of locals its welfare standards and got together to resurrect the committed to upholding tradition of Uppingham rural traditions.” n Fatstock, and pre-Covid,

Food & Drink

From 24th to 30th October 2022, The county will host its Discover Rutland Food & Drink Week. Local suppliers, food businesses and restaurants all get involved to promote local produce.

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READY? SET? BAKE!

GBBO RETURNS FOR 2022 Prepare to fret over soggy bottoms and uneven sponges as Great British Bakeoff is set to return...

IN THE GARDEN

IN SEPTEMBER: Hopefully some last minute sunshine and a chance to prune the lavender and wisteria. Plant spring bulbs like daffodils, crocus and hyacinth. n IN OCTOBER: Time to clean up all of those fallen leaves and to clean paths so they don’t develop algae and moss, resulting in slippery surfaces. n IN NOVEMBER: Plant onion, shallot and garlic, prune apple and pear trees. n

ON THE TABLE AUTUMN October sees Apple Day celebrated on 21st October, coinciding with the harvest of eating apples in local orchards. For pudding, then, we’ll have an apple crumble or apple pie with dulce de leche, and lots of lovely cherries, blackberries and other hedgerow fruits. Elsewhere? Time for stews and soups, with crusty bread dripping in warm butter. n

Ready? Set? Bake! 2022 will see the return of the Great British Bakeoff and a trend for baking very much enjoying a resurgence in our part of the world. Keen to make the most of your baking? We’ll point you, then, in the direction of The Clandestine Cake Club, a group of dedicated bakers who meet in secret and engage in friendly competition to create bakes on a monthly theme. The group is a national one but operates on a local level with groups in Stamford

and Peterborough enjoying creating and then sampling each others’ bakes, with one competitor named the group’s best baker each month, for more information see traditionalhomebaking.com. 2022’s GBBO bakers are selected in January, after a seven page application form and an in-person interview. Filming takes place between May and July with each of the contestants having to sign a non-disclosure agreement as to the outcome of the competition until broadcast. n

WEATHERWATCH SUNSHINE & PRECIPITATION: SEPTEMBER: 50mm ZERO 139hrs OCTOBER: 69mm 1mm 108hrs NOVEMBER: 58mm 2mm 59hrs

RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE RAINFALL SNOWFALL SUNSHINE

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES:

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY... n 1st - 4th SEPTEMBER 2022: Burghley Horse Trials takes place in Stamford.

n 9th SEPTEMBER 2022: 20th anniversary of Rob Davis’s tenure as Pride Magazines’ editor.

n 25th OCTOBER 2022: British summertime ends; clocks go back Sunday 30th October. n 31st OCTOBER 2022: Halloween, make sure you’ve sweets in for trick or treaters.

n 5th NOVEMBER 2022: Guy Fawkes night, expect fireworks on Friday 5th & Saturday 6th. n 11th NOVEMBER 2022: Remembrance falls on a Friday in 2022, Sunday is the 13th.

n 18th NOVEMBER 2022: Children In Need; the event has raised over £1bn since 1980.

SEPTEMBER: HIGH 20°C, LOW 11°C OCTOBER: HIGH 16°C, LOW 8°C NOVEMBER: HIGH 11°C, LOW 5°C

SUNRISE & SUNSET: 1st SEPTEMBER: 14th SEPTEMBER: 1st OCTOBER: 14th OCTOBER: 1st NOVEMBER: 14th NOVEMBER:

06.11 06.32 06.59 07.21 06.52 07.15

19.49 19.19 18.40 18.11 16.35 16.14

35 35

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Schools & Colleges Here, we profile some of the best independent schools and colleges, across Stamford and Rutland, offering the very best education the region has to offer... Words: Rob Davis.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Laxton Junior School

“We never underestimate the importance of time...”

At Laxton Junior School (LJS), we know that the more content and happy our children are, the better they engage and learn. We take time to really understand every single child, what motivates and excites them, and how we can harness this to challenge them at just the right level in every lesson and in every activity. We never underestimate the importance of time. Our approach to staffing means that we can always give children the individual attention they need, which in turn builds confidence and resilience. This helps them to take risks, to challenge themselves and not fear failure. The result is children who are inspired by the opportunities they have, who have the confidence to

learn from mistakes and who ultimately develop real mastery of their subjects. As a school, we value our wonderful traditions but we are far from traditional in our approach. Which is why, when we came to create our new prospectus, we decided to create something a little different – something that brought our school and children to life through a collection of stories, peppered with thoughts from the children themselves. If you are interested in finding out more and would like to read our ‘Big Book of Little Details’ or arrange a visit, we would love to hear from you. Please just drop us an email or give us a call. n Laxton Junior School (part of Oundle School). W: www.laxtonjunior.org.uk E: admissions@laxtonjunior.org.uk T: 01832 277159.

Brooke Priory School

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

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

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

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

We recognise that some children will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others. Children perform better if their emotional needs are addressed, we have an ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) programme and we also have our Emotional Support dog Elsie!

Whilst academic distinctions are always a priority we focus on the ‘whole child’ in all aspects of school life. Sport is

n To find out more or to request a prospectus, contact Admissions on 01572 724778 or email:

communications@ brooke.rutland.sch.uk, www.brooke.rutland.sch.uk.

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SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

Scallywags Day Nursery “A happy and rewarding experience...”

Scallywags Day Nursery & Pre-School in Oakham are committed to maintaining high quality early education all year round, ensuring all children reach their potential.

masters level qualifications, with professionals totally dedicated to providing the finest childcare and ensuring children are well prepared for primary school.

The nursery includes a state of the art pre-school with a large outside play area and vegetable patch, where the children enjoy growing sunflowers and producing their own fresh vegetables.

The nursery is currently offering several discounts to help support parents.

The nursery has remained open throughout the Covid-19 pandemic supporting NHS and other keyworkers with childcare when they most needed it.

All NHS and Blue Light Card holders can receive a 10% discount on fees.

The nursery has had to adapt to ensure a safe, yet familiar, environment for the children whilst continuing to provide quality childcare. Scallywags boasts professional qualified nursery nurses and teachers including degree and 40

A free flexible induction package is available for all bookings prior to the end of June.

A school package is available offering term time childcare for teachers, school workers and parents. Sibling discounts and two, three and four-year-old funding are also available. n For more information call 01572 723 810 or visit the school’s website at www.scallywagsoakham.co.uk

The Peterborough School “Modern outlook and traditional values...”

The Peterborough School is the City’s only independent day school for boys and girls from Nursery to Sixth Form.

value-added scores, meaning children do better here because of the excellent teaching and high levels of individual attention.

Small class sizes are key to us unlocking every child’s potential academically and vital soft skills are developed by our extended curriculum.

Our new Library and Sixth Form Centre, opened last September, have provided Senior pupils with high-tech and comfortable environments for studying and socialising.

Our ‘Outstanding’ Nursery gives children the best possible start in excellent facilities, which include three garden areas as well as access to the school’s sports hall, fields, IT suite and auditorium. Pupils are happy and safe in our Prep, Senior School and Sixth Form. We aim to develop a passion for learning in all areas and success is celebrated throughout. Our consistently strong A Level results show high

The Peterborough School was founded in 1895 and is a member of the Woodard group of schools, which is the largest collection of Church of England schools in England and Wales and one of the principal educational charities in the UK. n Visitors are very welcome to look around our productive, friendly and happy school during our Open Days or by appointment. Tel: 01733 343357 or email admissions@tpsch.co.uk.

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School of Artisan Food

“Learn how to bake, butcher, create patisserie and more!”

Want to take your baking to the next level or perfect your patisserie proficiencies? Perhaps you would like to learn more about cheese-making, preserving, or how to craft the perfect pie? Set in the heart of the tranquil country estate of Welbeck in Nottinghamshire, The School of Artisan Food provides a beautiful environment for learning all about creating delicious food. It aims to truly fire you up about the art and business of sustainable artisan food production with its wide range of hands-on courses that are taught by world-class award-winning tutors. From baking and patisserie to charcuterie, cheese-making, foraging, preserving and pickling, the courses cater for all levels; teaching complete beginners as well as professionals.

The School of Artisan Food also delivers a Foundation Degree in Artisan Food Production alongside Nottingham Trent University. And for those who have dreams of starting their own artisan business, the school offers food-business start-up courses. Through creative workshops and practical exercises, you can learn how to test out your ideas and develop a business. Established as a not-for-profit company, the school’s aim was always to inspire the wider community and make artisan food more accessible. Today it is well known for teaching all about creating healthy, sustainable, and delicious food – and in a fun way. And its unique location within stunning parkland simply adds to the experience. n Call 01909 532171 for more or see www.schoolofartisanfood.org.

Riseholme College

“Providing a specialist technical education...”

Riseholme College is one of the UK’s leading land-based educational institutions specialising in Agriculture, Animal Management, Equine and Sport. Over the last 70 years, multi-million-pound investments in facilities and resources has seen the learning environmental at Riseholme go from strength to strength. On-site facilities include: l A brand-new Centre for Agri-Food Technology (part of the Lincolnshire Institute of Technology collaboration), which specialises in delivering higher-level technical skills to improve productivity, reduce skills gaps and support industry. l Agri-Tech Health and Nutrition Centre with professional kitchens and dedicated laboratories. l Recently developed Roundhouse to house Lincolnshire Red Cattle.

l Specialist Animal Management Unit which is home to array of species. l A dedicated Equine Centre with a mix of indoor and outdoor arenas and a rider performance suite. l Sports and Health Science Centre, complete with gym, multi-use sports hall and outdoor 3G pitch. Riseholme College’s Chief Executive and Principal, Bill Meredith, says: “Riseholme is designed to make sure students are work-ready by the time they complete their studies, meaning they are fully equipped to launch exciting careers in a range of industries. We provide outstanding tuition by experts in their field, stunning campus facilities and worldclass industry partnerships.” n Information on the college’s range of courses are available online at www.riseholme.ac.uk or by calling 01522 304600. 41

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NEWS & EVENTS

What’s On... LEICESTER

MONDAY 24th JANUARY

EXTON

PROFESSOR BRIAN COX: HORIZONS

22nd JANUARY 2022

BURN’S NIGHT AT BARNSDALE LODGE

Horizons takes audiences on a dazzling cinematic journey; a story of how we came to be and what we can become. What is the nature of space and time? Why does the Universe exist? How did life begin, how rare might it be and what is the significance of life in the Cosmos? What does it mean to live a small, finite life in a vast, eternal Universe? The deepest of questions will be explored using the latest advances in our understanding of quantum theory, black holes, biology, planetary science, astronomy and cosmology. Prof Brian Cox explains all in this live show.

A traditional Burn’s Night Supper at Barnsdale Lodge, the most popular event of its kind in Rutland & Stamford. The evening features a four course meal comprising cock-a-leekie soup, haggis with neeps and tatties, plus Scottish Beef Cheeks, followed by cranachan and coffee. In terms of entertainment, the haggis will be piped in, accompanied by traditional readings of Robert Burns’ poetry, there will be ceilidh dancing and party band A Waggon Load of Monkeys later in the evening. Booking essential. n £35/head, accommodation £70/room, call 01572 724678 or see www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

Classical Piano in Stamford

PAUL LEWIS’S RECORDINGS HAVE RECEIVED UNANIMOUS ACCLAIM, BUT YOU CAN HEAR THEM LIVE THIS MONTH

n DeMontfort Hall, Leicester, tickets £31.50, call 0116 233 3111 or see demontforthall.co.uk. STAMFORD

SATURDAY 8th JANUARY

PAUL LEWIS ON PIANO IN STAMFORD Paul Lewis is regarded internationally as one of the leading pianists of his generation for his interpretations of the classical repertoire. In this performance you’ll enjoy Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 8, Sibelius’ Bagatelles, plus Chopin’s Polonaise No. 7. An exceptional opportunity to enjoy an exceptional talent. n From 7.30pm, tickets £20, at Stamford Arts Centre, St Marys Street, PE9 2DL, 01780 763203, www.stamfordartscentre.com.

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

PETERBOROUGH

SUNDAY 2nd JANUARY

BILL BAILEY: EN ROUTE TO NORMAL

LEICESTER

MONDAY 10th - SATURDAY 15th JANUARY

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

Ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical, The Rocky Horror Show returns to Curve as part of a sell-out worldwide tour, having been seen by over 30 million

theatregoers. Two squeaky clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet – break down outside a creepy mansion and meet the charismatic Dr Frank’n’Furter for an adventure they’ll never forget and some toe-tapping tunes. n Tickets £10-£45, 7.30pm, Curve Theatre, Rutland Street Leicester, LE1 1SB. Call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

ABBA Forever in Stamford ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S BIGGEST AND BEST ABBA TRIBUTE ACTS IS HERE TO WARM UP YOUR WINTER

Star of Strictly Come Dancing, Black Books, and veteran of a dozen wildly successful comedy tours, Bill Bailey will return to the East of England Arena and Events Centre this month as part of his En Route to Normal tour. In this new show, Bill ponders the questions that this moment in history has thrown up, and tries to see a way through the strange unreality of our new world. Tracing lines through chaotic moments in history, Bill seeks out parallels where resilience and our ability to endure has got us through times of strife. n Tickets £38.50, East Of England Arena, Peterborough, PE2 6HE, 01733 363500.

STAMFORD

SUNDAY 30th JANUARY

ABBA FOREVER

Forever ABBA is one of the UK’s leading international tribute shows and theatre audiences from across Great Britain and Sweden have long enjoyed this superb recreation of possibly the world’s greatest pop group. The unique Abba sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by this a seven-piece band featuring electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards and piano, bass, and drums. Two outstanding Abba girls complete the line-

PETERBOROUGH

27th - 30th JANUARY

KATHARINE OF ARAGON FESTIVAL Of all the historical characters associated with Peterborough Cathedral Katharine of Aragon, first of Henry VIII’s six wives, is undoubtedly the most famous. Katharine is remembered annually with a commemorative service and series of events at the Cathedral and elsewhere in the city around the anniversary of her burial, 29th January. Details of the 2022 programme are TBC as Pride goes to press, for dates and events, see the Cathedral’s website. n Call 01733 355315 or see peterborough-cathedral.org.uk. Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS.

up, adding the essential glitz and glamour to a wellpolished and gently humorous show. The wonderful lyrics penned by Benny and Bjorn are sung in wonderful harmony by all performers on stage. Dynamic non-stop choreography, stunning visuals, top class musicianship and an all live performance ensures that the Forever ABBA Show captivates audiences from the opening refrain to the final sing-along chorus of this two-hour spectacular. n Stamford Corn Exchange, 01780 766455, tickets £23.50, www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.

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This month we reveal the winners of our 2021 Good Food Awards. Back in October we invited our readers to vote for their favourite local restaurants, coffee shops and food & drink producers... Words: Rob Davis.

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

Rutland & Stamford’s Restaurant of the Year A worthy win for wonderful Hambleton Hall, a consistent favourite with Pride’s readers! FINDING FRESH WORDS of praise for one of Rutland’s best-known and one of its mostloved restaurants is a tricky one. There could, after all, be few people who are unaware of what Hambleton Hall stands for in terms of its excellence and the respect it has, not just in the area but across the country. The country house hotel was built in 1881 as a hunting lodge for Walter Marshall before the house passed to his sister Eva Astley Paston Cooper whose colourful social circle included Noël Coward, Malcolm Sargent and Charles Scott Moncrieff. Upon Eva Cooper’s death, the place passed to Lord Trent, Dr. Brockbank and Major and Mrs Hoare, who took on the property until the creation of Rutland Water from 1976. Subsequently, Tim & Stefa Hart transformed the place in 1979 and 1980 into a country house hotel. Stefa still provides interior design services for selected clients, having lived with the interior designer Nina Campbell. The both helped to create the interiors of the hotel and by extension, establish its country house feel. Meanwhile Tim Hart’s personal interest is in helping to ensure the grounds of Hambleton Hall look beautiful all year round, and its lovely terrace offers a superb vantage point from which to enjoy both the 50

grounds themselves but also the view over the reservoir. Of course, whilst stunning interiors, bedrooms and a lovely setting are all part of the appeal of Hambleton Hall, its proud boast is the long-standing presence of Aaron Patterson, who began his career at Hambleton Hall before leaving to gain additional experience with Raymond Blanc and Anton Mosiman prior to his return to the hotel in 1992, by which time Hambleton Hall had already held its Michelin Star for a decade. That star has been retained by Aaron and his 16-strong brigade ever since. This month, we strongly recommend taking advantage of Hambleton Hall’s participation in Rutland’s Lunch for Less promotion which will provide concessionary dining in January and February; two courses are just £34.50 and a third course is £9.50. In the evening, a menu of the day provides a choice of four starters, four main courses plus two additional gourmet corner options as well as a choice of four desserts. Many of Hambleton Hall’s ingredients are sourced locally or grown in the hotel’s own kitchen garden. This is one of the ways that Hambleton Hall ensures it can provide what remains, simply, one of the best dining experiences in the country. n

There could, be few people who are unaware of what Hambleton Hall stands for in terms of its excellence and the respect it has, not just in the area but across the country...

Top: General Manager Chris Hurst.

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Also highly commended by our readers The restaurants our readers also voted for in our 2021 awards...

n The Olive Branch (above):

In 1999 something magical happened in Clipsham. Sean Hope, Ben Jones and Marcus Welford created The Olive Branch in place of a closed down village pub. Today, it’s Michelin-starred, determinedly rustic and an absolutely sublime place to dine. Tel: 01780 410355, www.theolivebranchpub.com. n Hitchens Barn:

Formerly of Hambleton Hall, Neil and Louise Hitchens left the hotel and after travelling around the world, working in some of the fanciest hotels, they returned to Rutland to run The Berkeley Arms in Wymondham. Then in January 2019, the two moved into the town and established Hitchen’s Barn, instantly being rewarded with a Bib Gourmand award in the Michelin Guide. Tel: 01572 722255, www.hitchensbarn.co.uk. n The Lake Isle:

Uppingham’s Restaurant with Rooms is well-regarded in the area, providing dishes crafted from fresh seasonal ingredients. Tel: 01572 722255, www.hitchensbarn.co.uk. 51

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

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Café, Coﬀee Shop or Bistro of the Year 2021

Also highly commended by our readers

Central Café in Stamford takes our next award for when you’re seeking a light bite with style

n Otters Fine Foods:

WE’VE RESERVED our second category of our Good Food Awards to champion Rutland or Stamford businesses which offer lighter bites, lunchtime service, afternoon tea and daytime dining.

Central Café is based in a 15th century timber-framed building with loads of character, and great views over Red Lion Square. The café somewhat boldly promises the best breakfast in the town, but it’s a claim that it’s able to support thanks to a range of fresh locally sourced ingredients such as Benny’s Eggs and local butchery. On the menu are classic sandwiches, warm paninis perfect for the winter months, homemade burgers and a staple of quality coffee prepared by professional baristas. A really great, independently owned café and tea room, in the heart of Stamford! n

In November 2019, Leo Sugden took the opportunity to locate his deli and café to brand new premises on Oakham’s High Street. Its menu is based around light lunches and breakfasts incorporating its smoked meat and cheeses. Tel: 01572 756481, www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk. n The Orangery, Stamford:

Based at Burghley House, The Orangery is a great place to enjoy coffee and cake, especially in the spring when the adjacent gardens are a carpet of daffodils. Tel: 01780 761989 www.burghley.co.uk. n The Garden Restaurant:

Main Image: Bruno Ideias, Sema Otke (seated), Aaron Jones and Callum Jaggard at Central Café & Tearoom.

Located within Gates Garden Centre, The Garden Restaurant is heaving as Pride goes to press thanks to thousands of shoppers all enjoying the retailer’s Christmas displays, which remain the best in the area. The Garden Restaurant has a whopping capacity of 360, as well as brilliant breakfasts, light lunches, salads, burgers, cakes and afternoon teas. Tel: 01664 454309 www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. 53

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

Best International Dining Restaurant One of the area’s most unique dining out options, Orbis, is our international dining out winner...! THEY SAY travel broadens the horizons, but then again, so does food. That’s why, for our 2021 awards, we created a category which specifically celebrates international cuisine. Votes flooded in for many pan-Asian and Mediterranean dining experiences, but our readers overwhelmingly recommended Orbis as their number one choice. Orbis was based in Oakham, just off Church Lane, but as Pride goes to press it’ll reopen in newly renovated premises on Mill Street in the building which was formerly occupied by Mill Street’s kitchen and pub. Meanwhile, Orbis also established itself in Stamford, in the building which was formerly occupied by Hoppi Dorri, and it 54

will incorporate the latter’s sushi and Japanese fusion dining menu as Hoppi Dorri at Orbis in Stamford. Jonathan Spencer is the restauranteur behind Orbis, and says it is unapologetically a fusion restaurant. Indeed, Japanese food and specifically Nikkai cuisine draws upon the relationship between Japan and Peru – South America more broadly – established at the beginning of the 20th century. Happily, that means instead of remaining constrained by just Japanese influences, Orbis and Hoppi Dorri at Orbis are able to bring together influences from across the world, providing chefs Sam McDonald and Omar Palazzolo with plenty of scope to create

innovative and beautiful dishes which draw on a number of culinary cultures. That means dishes from the land, from the sea and from the garden, from Brazilian spare ribs to Peking duck breast to maple syrup belly pork. The diversity of dishes on Orbis’s menus are matched only by the attention to detail that the team expends upon them and the creative flair invested not just in their flavour, but in their presentation too. Either Oakham or Stamford’s Orbis offers very good dining, an entirely unique dining concept and something deliciously different compared to other pubs and restaurants in the area. Much respected, much recommended, and a truly deserving winner in this category. n

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Also highly commended by our readers International dining suggestions courtesy of our readers’ votes...

Brunch at Fika.

n Fika, Oakham & Stamford:

Brother and sister Ivo & Tia created Fika, ‘inspired by the Swedish way of life,’ just off Oakham’s Mill Street, and have opened another in Stamford’s High Street since. Superb healthy breakfasts, superfood salads and more. Tel: 01572 352935, www.fikacafe.co.uk. n Sarpech, Oakham:

The authentic Indian restaurant and wine bar in Oakham. Sarpech’s ethos is to faithfully represent as much of the subcontinent as possible without compromise. Tel: 01572 842888, www.sarpech.co.uk. n Mad Turk, Stamford:

Relaxed, traditional Turkish/Anatolian food. The menu is clean fresh and authentic and best for sharing. There is a good selection of vegetarian dishes, too. Tel: 01780 238001, www.themadturk.co.uk. n San Georgio, Oakham:

Orbis in Stamford.

A little taste of Italy with authentic cuisine in Oakham. Tel: 01572 759656 www.sangiorgiorestaurant.co.uk. 55

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

Rutland & Stamford’s Best

‘Restaurant with Rooms’ The George of Stamford takes our 2021 title as the area’s best ‘restaurant with rooms...’ IT’S A VERY SPECIAL YEAR for The George of Stamford. 2022 represents the 50th anniversary of the 900 year old coaching inn coming under the custodianship of owners Lawrence and Andrea Hoskins. Its more recent General Managers – Paul Reseigh, Chris Pitman and Ivo Vannocci – had each originated from a food and beverage background, so the appointment of new General Manager Petros Psyllakis means that for the first time, The George has a GM from a service background, rather than a Chef Patron. “Nonetheless, our emphasis on good food will remain,” says Petros as we present the hotel with our Restaurant with Rooms award for 2021, as voted for by Pride readers. “They regard The George as synonymous

with Stamford, and an exemplification of the town’s look and feel.” “The George is very unique. It’s larger inside than it looks, and when fully-staffed we have over 180 people working here. Taking over custodianship of the hotel is a daunting prospect, because we have to embrace the heritage of the building, maintain its feel and our values, whilst still delivering exceptional service and comfort for our guests.” “Many of the team have worked here for 20 years, The George is a part of us, as it’s a part of Stamford. Taking care of it and evolving it sympathetically whilst still leaving it better and better for each successive custodian is a challenge... but it’s one to which we’re all absolutely committed!” n

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Also highly commended by our readers n Lake Isle, Uppingham:

Two AA rosette cuisine, carefully prepared by Stuart Mead, in a pretty Grade II listed restaurant… those are the hallmarks of Uppingham’s Lake Isle, founded 20 years ago. Each of the 12 rooms are comfortable, tastefully furnished and they make the most of the building’s cosy historic charm. Tel: 01572 822951 www.lakeisle.co.uk. n Beech House, Clipsham:

Beech House is the sister of Clipsham’s Olive Branch, and complements the latter’s Good Pub Guide awardwinning dining with the provision of six beautifully decorated and individual rooms. Comfortable, luxurious and more akin to staying in a friend’s guest suite than a guest house. Tel: 01780 410355, www.theolivebranchpub.com. n The Finch’s Arms, Hambleton:

À la carte dining is a real treat at the Finch’s Arms in Hambleton and when you retire to bed, you can also enjoy the comfort of 10 beautifully decorated rooms with amazing views over the water. The Finch’s sister pub restaurant – The Admiral Hornblower, in the centre of Oakham – is also worth a look and it, too, has 10 en suite rooms. Tel: 01572 756575 www.finchsarms.co.uk.

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

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Also highly commended by our readers The best local food producers and retailers courtesy of our readers’ own votes... n Hambleton Bakery:

2021’s Best Local Food Producer or Retailer Gates Garden Centre farms and retails the best quality local produce in its modern farm shop... OVER 12,000SQ FT with over 4,000 products! Gates Garden Centre’s farm shop has to be one of the largest in the country, certainly in the local area, and it promises a true foodie experience. Little wonder, then, that our readers have voted it our Best Local Food Producer or Retailer of the Year.

There’s a huge range of cheese to choose from on the cheese and deli counter, as well as home-made pies, quiches and a range of scotch eggs. And, while the aim is to source as much as possible locally, no deli would be complete without a choice of olives and other anti-pasti.

The butchery, run by similarly award winning Hambleton Farms, sells a wide variety of locally sourced meat including beef and lamb from Gates’ own farm in the village, helping to keep food miles to a minimum.

An artisan bakery offers a wide selection of bread and cakes from local bakeries including Hambletons. There’s a loose fill range with granola, nuts, seeds and pulses amongst others and a make your own peanut butter station... and your orange juice won’t be any fresher than when you squeeze it yourself in-store! What a refreshing way to shop! n

You can buy organic milk sourced from a local dairy herd just across the fields from the farm shop, plus quality fruit and veg.

It was in 2008 that Rutland’s Julian Carter approached hotelier Tim Hart to create ‘the Hambleton Hall of bakeries’ in the area. A pastry chef in the kitchens of this year’s Restaurant of the Year, Julian and Tim embarked on a partnership which has since yielded six shops and a great reputation with a delicious range of baked products not just for consumers, but for some of the area’s most discerning restaurants too. Tel: 01572 812995, www.hambletonbakery.co.uk. n Otters Fine Foods, Oakham:

Leo Sugden has moved to a larger deli and coffee shop on Oakham’s High Street. Bigger, better but with the same range of smoked cheese, fish and other deli treats. Tel: 01572 756481 www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk. n Grasmere Farm, Stamford:

With shops in Stamford, Market Deeping and Bourne, Grasmere Farm specialises in award winning pork. It’s a family-run business embracing values such as complete traceability and real care for food values and provenance. Its Hampshire-cross pigs are lovingly cared for, and yield the area’s very best pork. Tel: 01780 765563, www.grasmere-farm.co.uk 59

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

Best Drinks Producer for 2021 Please raise a glass to Multum Gin Parvo, the winner of our awards’ final category...! OUR SIXTH AND FINAL Good Food Awards category aims to recognise all those local businesses who are helping to quench our thirst, both in winter and summer. Multum Gin Parvo (see what they did there?) was established in August 2009 by three gin connoisseurs; Rutland’s Chaz Ellis, Hayley Cook and Tim Cook. In three months, working with master distiller Simon, the group came up with a traditional dry gin that would later be joined by innovative flavours such as Strawberry and Lavender – a perfect summer tipple – one with Earl Grey Tea and Rutland Honey, and their Sloe Gin to enjoy in the winter months. Our readers reckon Multum Gin Parvo is an exceptional ambassador for the county’s commitment to producing quality food and drink, and the team are determined to give a little back to the county they know and love, making donations to the area’s Osprey Leadership Foundation via their special edition Migration gin. The family are also involved in the running of Rutland Water Garden Nursery, where their products are sold. We think that the range perfectly captures the spirit of Rutland. In fact, if we were inclined to attempt a pun, we’d say that Multum Gin Parvo is just the tonic! n 60

Elizabeth Louch of Multum Gin Parvo.

Also highly commended by our readers... n Two Chimps Coffee: Two Chimps, based in Oakham and established by photographers turned coffee roasters Andy Cross and Laura Shead are now bringing hand-roasted beans directly to your door. Freshly roasted, ethically sourced coffee tailored for you from a climate positive coffee company. Tel: 01572 774389, www.twochimpscoffee.com.

n Grainstore Brewery, Oakham: The town’s Grainstore Brewery Tap opened its doors in September 1995 and today is recognised as one of the best brew pubs in Britain. The combination of superb beers, brewed on the premises, and a traditional pub setting has proven to be a winner. Tel: 01572 770065, www.grainstorebrewery.com.

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LEARN TO COOK LIKE A PROFESSIONAL AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE FOR YOU... OR A GREAT GIFT IDEA FOR A LOVED ONE!

Bread & Cakes Desserts & Puds Fish & Sushi Game Dishes Pork & Meat Pies & Pastry Sauces World Cuisine Junior Courses

ALSO AVAILABLE: COOKING PARTIES FOR UP TO 8 PEOPLE, FULL & HALF DAYS

Call 07989 412603 for details of our courses, dates and gift vouchers WWW.LINCOLNSHIRECOOKERYSCHOOL.COM

Cosy Coffee Breaks Tuck into a warming hearty soup, freshly made sandwiches, tasty breakfast or mouth-watering cakes at our coffee shop. If you’re looking for a healthy option, we also have delicious smoothies on the menu. Then browse the showroom at your leisure for interior design inspiration or to purchase any of the delightful gifts on offer.

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

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

Call 01780 757946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

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WINTER WARMERS

Four delicious warming soup recipes for the whole family to enjoy in these cold winter months (calorie count included!)

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SPICED PARSNIP & CARROT SOUP

Serves 4. 202kcals per serving. Prep: 10 mins. Cook: 20-25 mins.

Heat a dash of vegetable oil in a large saucepan and cook one roughly chopped onion and one (or two, depending on your preference) red chillies, deseeded and chopped for five minutes until softened. Add a tablespoon of garam masala and cook for a minute more. Then add 500g parsnips, peeled and cubed, 500g of carrots, peeled and cubed, and 1,000ml of vegetable stock with 200ml water. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Using a handheld blender, whizz the soup until smooth. Stir in the grated zest and juice of one orange and heat gently, then ladle into bowls. Scatter over toasted cumin seeds to serve. This soup tastes best with a delicious crusty roll of bread.

>> Images and recipes in this feature are courtesy of Waitrose, www.waitrose.com/recipes. 62

WINTER VEGETABLE SOUP in a Tuscan-style Serves 4. 267kcals per serving. Prep: 15 mins. Cook: 30 mins. Ingredients: olive oil spray • one onion, roughly chopped • one large carrot, diced • 1tsp fennel seeds, crushed • 400g can chopped tomatoes • 750ml vegetable stock • three sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves picked and chopped • one Savoy cabbage, halved and shredded • 400g can Borlotti Beans, drained and rinsed • four pieces of sliced bloomer

Spritz the bottom of a large, heavy-based pan with olive oil spray. Add the onion and carrot and cook over a medium heat for eight to ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the fennel seeds and cook the mix for a further minute. Pour in the tomatoes and stock and bring to a simmer. Stir in the rosemary and cabbage, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the beans and simmer for a further five minutes. Meanwhile, preheat a griddle pan until hot. Lay the slices of bread on it and cook for one to two minutes on each side, until charred. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with the griddled bread. n

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ITALIAN KALE & CANNELLINI SOUP Serves 4. 350kcals per serving Prep: 15 mins. Cook: 15 mins. Ingredients: 2 x 400g chopped tomatoes • 150g Savoy cabbage, washed and shredded • 150g kale • 400g Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed • four slices of ciabatta • 2tbsp extra virgin olive oil • one clove of garlic, halved • four large Fairburns free range eggs

Put the tomatoes in a large saucepan and add one and a half cans of boiling water. Bring to the boil and add the cabbage, then simmer for five minutes. Add the kale and beans and cook for a further five minutes. Meanwhile, brush the ciabatta with one tbsp of the oil and toast on a hot griddle pan (or under a hot grill) for one to two minutes each side until browned. Rub each side of the ciabatta with the halved garlic clove.

Bring a pan of water to the boil and crack the eggs into it. Poach them for two minutes until the whites are set. Meanwhile, spoon the soup into four serving bowls. Remove each egg from the pan with a slotted spoon and place on top of the ciabatta. Sit the egg-topped toast into the soup bowls, drizzle over the remaining oil and serve. This is a deliciously healthy soup that feels like more of a meal, with a wonderfully warming Italian twist.

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In the KITCHEN A lovely warming pudding that’s great served with cream or custard, or enjoyed in front of the fire with big mug of tea...

CHAI SPICED APPLE CAKE Preparation Time: 30 minutes. Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Serves: 10. 175g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing • 7 cardamom pods, cracked open 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon • 1 ½ tsp ground ginger • ½ tsp fine salt • 2 eating apples, peeled and cored 150g light brown soft sugar • 3 medium eggs • 150g self-raising flour • 100g ground almonds ¼ tsp vanilla bean paste • 1 tsp whole milk • 2½ tbsp icing sugar, sifted Preheat the oven to 160°C, gas mark 3; grease a 900g loaf tin and line with baking parchment. Shake the seeds out of the cardamom pods into a pestle and mortar. Grind to a powder, then mix with the cinnamon, ginger and salt; set aside. Finely slice 1⁄2 an apple, then dice the rest into 1cm cubes; set aside. Using electric beaters, cream together the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. One at a time, beat in the eggs, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Use a spatula to stir in the flour, almonds and spice mix until evenly combined. Stir the diced apple into the mixture, then spoon into the tin. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon, then scatter over the sliced apple. Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes or until risen and a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. For the drizzle, mix the vanilla bean paste and milk into the icing sugar to make a thick, smooth paste. Drizzle over the cake and scatter with rose petals before serving. You can vary the spice mix in this cake. Try swapping the ginger for ground allspice or crushing a couple of cloves instead of grinding the cardamom seeds. n Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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In the KITCHEN It’ll be a winter of content – not discontent – if you treat the family to this delicious twist on a summer favourite...!

WINTER ETON MESS POTS Preparation Time: 15 minutes. Chilling Time: 15 minutes. Serves 4. 450g pack frozen forest fruit mix • 6 cloves • 1 orange, pared zest • 4 tbsp caster sugar 450g natural yogurt • 1⁄2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1⁄2 tsp vanilla bean paste • 4 meringue nests, crushed Put the frozen fruit, cloves, pared orange zest and sugar in a large saucepan. Set over a medium-high heat and cook, shaking the pan from time to time, for 8-12 minutes or until the fruit is defrosted and any juices have bubbled and thickened into a syrupy sauce; set aside to cool completely. When ready to serve, mix the yogurt, cinnamon and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Stir through almost all of the meringue. Remove the cloves and orange zest from the fruit. Spoon the yogurt mixture and fruit into small glasses or bowls, lightly rippling them together. Sprinkle with the reserved meringue and serve immediately. If making in advance, prepare the fruit and the yogurt (without the meringue) and chill in separate bowls. Just before serving, crush the meringues into the yogurt, then assemble in glasses. n Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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Wine of the Month

Taking alcohol-free sipping to new heights

Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Napa Valley £35.99 / 75cl / 15% ABV

It took over 180 prototypes to perfect this alcohol-free ‘gin’ with its faithful juniper taste From being the designated driver to having already enjoyed enough booze to last you until next Christmas, to a nagging sense that alcohol is responsible for your winter blues or expanding waist... or just because you’re determined to adhere to dry January. There are a number of reasons to go alcohol-free on New Year’s Eve, but none better than this stunner from Sipsmith, with its faithful juniper flavour and the zesty freshness of its botanicals. n £22.50 / 70cl / <0.50% ABV, See www.sipsmith.com.

The Wine Cellar IT’LL BE A HAPPY NEW YEAR INDEED THANKS TO A FINE TRIO OF SPARKLING WINE, PLUS A HEAVYWEIGHT RED... AND WE’VE SOMETHING NICE FOR DESIGNATED DRIVERS, TOO! “PLEASURE WITHOUT CHAMPAGNE IS PURELY ARTIFICIAL...” Oscar Wilde 1. It’s sparkling in every sense. Chapel Down wines have become one of the best British wine brands, and their Reichtensteiner/Rivaner blend is a good way to see off 2021, £27 / 75cl / 12% ABV.

2. Our mid-market choice is Pol Roger, which as we all know was the tipple of choice for Winston Churchill. A little more costly than Moët or Tattinger, but worth the extra in our opinion, with a fresh acidic taste and good mousse, £46 / 75cl / 12.5% ABV.

Careful with this one, for although Louis Martini’s Cab Sav looks deceptively ordinary, it’s a bit of a beast, weighing in at a full-bodied 15%. With flavours of black plum, blackcurrant and vanilla that are great with red meat it’s a cracking high-end choice, though you’ll probably want to go a little steady whilst enjoying its oak, vanilla and tobacco. If the result of the special relationship between the UK and the US is the availability of this, super wine, we’ll roll out the stars and stripes any day. Available from majestic.co.uk. n

Celebrating Robert Burns 25th January 2022 will see thousands of haggis-worshippers the length and breadth of the UK pretend to be Scottish for one evening, as a flimsy excuse to drink whisky. If the incentive is this, we’ll join them too. From Speyside, and aged for 25 years, it’s a sherry-matured single malt which has lots of dark fruit and oak spice. Barley, gingerbread, and nuts, it’s slightly smoky but also thoroughly enjoyable. ‘Slàinte! as they say. £129 / 70cl / 43% ABV,

3. Pushing the boat out? Good show. Opt for this then. It’s a 2012 vintage of Bollinger, made exclusively from Grand Cru rated grapes ideal for welcoming in 2022 with friends, £105 / 75cl / 12% ABV.

houseofmalt.co.uk.

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. 71

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HOMES & INTERIORS

HEART & SOUL Holwell was supposed to be Simon and Gemma Smith’s forever home, and accordingly the couple put heart and soul into its development. But having seen another plot, and finding the prospect of beginning a new project irresistible, this stunning home is now on the market... Images: Dean Fisher Photography.

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“WHY ARE WE MOVING? I’VE NO IDEA!” says Simon Smith, sitting in the kitchen of his beautiful contemporary home, Holwell, in the centre of Stamford. “Well, I do... but...” He looks around and I find myself in complete agreement; it’ll be a real hardship to leave the house they’ve spent over two years creating. The couple say they’ve fallen in love with a plot upon which they can begin a new project, but it’ll have to be a spectacular plot to beat the location of Holwell, and a phenomenal build to match the look and feel of the house the couple will be leaving behind. Happily, Simon and Gemma have form when it comes to creating beautiful homes. Gemma, Simon and their business partner, Main: Holwell is an impeccable, ultra-modern five bedroomed property set over three floors nestling into the hillside in a private spot close to the very heart of the beautiful town of Stamford.

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David McDonald have a combined 35 years experience in the industry and have already developed eight houses in Stamford and several more in North Norfolk under the name of Forest Homes.

“The master bedroom and upper ground floor lobby lead out onto a very generous outdoor terrace, with its outdoor fireplace...”

Simon is meticulous with the design and construction of his homes, but as this was to be their forever home he’s pulled out all the stops and it’s a completely unique, very well-thought out home that will suit modern family life beautifully.

Also on the lower ground floor is a bedroom or playroom, and a shower room, so for those seeking multigenerational living, it’s a nice accessible area.

The house is arranged over three floors and its unique layout does warrant scrutiny. On the lower ground floor there’s the 50ft kitchen, family room and living area, as well as a generous utility room for family clobber and a separate larder to keep appliances and collateral away from the sleek kitchen surfaces.

On the upper ground floor, meanwhile, and beyond the timber and glass staircase is an entrance lobby which leads to a huge master suite with dressing room and en suite, as well as a guest suite with adjacent family bathroom. Here’s where things get really interesting: the master bedroom and lobby also lead out onto a very generous outdoor

terrace, with outdoor fireplace, living/dining area and stunning views from its elevated position over towards the Burghley Estate. This terrace sits on top of the living/dining kitchen and the grounds are planted with sufficient trees and shrubs to afford complete privacy as well as providing gorgeous views of the area from the master bedroom. Venture up another floor and you’ll find bedrooms four and five which share a family bathroom and there’s also a couple of large garages outdoors that provide plenty of storage for vehicles, bikes and clutter. The property’s kitchen has been created by Stamford’s Bakehouse Kitchens and incorporates handleless matte cabinetry, white veined Dekton surfaces and appliances by Wolf and Sub Zero; a fridge, freezer, wine cooler and eye-level ovens. >> 75

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>> The living kitchen also incorporates a TV lounge with a contemporary double-sided glass fireplace operated by remote control. And speaking of control, the house also incorporates a Control4 system installed by Stamford’s OrangehouseAV which neatly incorporates heating and ventilation, media, security cameras and other functions. The house also features heat-recovery tech which not only provides environmentally friendly heating but also ensures air entering the house is filtered to remove allergens. Leading out from the living kitchen is a large terrace with a contemporary outdoor kitchen and beautifully manicured stepped borders. You’ll notice that both the outdoor areas and Above: Built with contemporary style living in mind, Holwell features light and open spaces with a superb connection to the outside.

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its indoor spaces make especially effective use of light, and that’s no accident. Simon and Gemma enlisted Oakham-based Lumison Lighting to manage the property’s lighting design, which has led to practical and beautiful architectural lighting effects which highlight the property’s design both day and night. The house utilises smooth local limestone, incorporating an ashlar string course outside and it has beautiful dark grey timber veneers indoors. As the whole property nestles into its hillside location, the result really is greater than the sum of its parts. Holwell is a completely unique and absolutely beautiful property, right in the centre of Stamford. “We saw the estate agent’s photos and were heartbroken,” the couple say. “They just remind us of how beautiful the place is and how much we love it. We really have got every detail right and done the whole home justice. We’d be lying if we said it didn’t make us think twice about leaving, but at least someone else will get to enjoy the place as much as we have !” n

HOLWELL NEAR STAMFORD Location: Stamford 0.5 miles. Style: Individual architect designed property with open plan kitchen/living/dining area, terrace and four/five bedrooms. Guide Price: POA. Find Out More: Fine & Country, Seaton Grange Barn Offices Grange Lane Uppingham, LE15 9HT. Call 01780 750 200 or see www.fineandcountry.com. n

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

BUILDER’S MERCHANTS, TIMBER AND LANDSCAPING SUPPLIER

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

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

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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 One of our recent installations

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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HOME FURNISHINGS

WELCOME IN

WINTER This month we’ve feel-good furnishings and textiles to prove that blue is anything but cold and gloomy... This Page: Colefax & Fowler Dereham in blue used on blinds, from the designer’s autumn/winter 2021 collection.

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Rutland and Stamford’s independent interior design studios can create furnishings in designer fabrics that are beautifully bespoke to suit your home...

Top: Bramble wallpaper from Morris & Co, indigo/mineral colourway. Above/Right: Jane Churchill Bryony curtain in blue colourway. Back curtain in Millie, blue colourway. Right: Sofa in Ian Mankin Sutton Stripe, dark navy colourway.

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Tattershall fabric from Sanderson’s Elysium range, in Indigo colourway.

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Blinds and chair in Jane Churchill’s Walk in the Park fabric, blue colourway.

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

AFFORDABLE LUXURY LIVING For furnishings that will look great in your home for decades, not just years, and for unsurpassed rustic style, a visit to Auburn Fox is essential this month if you’re looking to live in comfort over the winter and into spring... Featured items available from Auburn Fox, Kettering, 0330 1331799, www.auburnfox.co.uk.

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WHAT’S THAT EXPRESSION? Treat others how you expected to be treated yourself ? It’s a simple and honest enough philosophy, and one which resonated with Vicky McAlwane and Ian Langley when they founded their home furnishings business, Auburn Fox.

“We thought it was time for something better. Ian has experience making his own furniture and upcycling, and I discovered I have a gift for upholstering, so soon we were selling our own products but also looking for furniture to offer to the public from other quality brands too.”

“We were looking for furniture for our own home and we wanted something individual, something that was well made, something that was good value in terms of its price and quality, with a degree of sustainability, and that was perhaps made in Britain, too,” says Vicky.

“We established Auburn Fox in 2018 and have gradually found different brands to bring to the public which have the qualities we want the business to reflect. We moved to our current premises, a Grade II listed 1,400sq ft space in August last year and today we’ve over 800 items on display including sofas, armchairs, furniture and finishing touches for the home, some of which are made here in the UK, but all of which represent good design, solid weight and quality; they’re products that are designed to last a lifetime, not just a few years.”

“The biggest furniture retailers in the UK don’t necessarily embody those qualities, and as well as the presence of veneer, chipboard and MDF, the service that you receive at big furniture warehouses often falls short of expectations.”

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“We want our customers to feel valued and to choose items they’ll love having in their homes for years to come...”

>> “We were really happy with the products we selected and over the past few years we have built on those with the service we offer.” “You’ll deal with the same people each time you visit us. We can provide the kind of service that we expect when we’re choosing products for our own home, and we’ve plenty of items in stock, so we’re usually able to provide prompt delivery, too.” “It’s our own experiences which have allowed us to mirror exactly how we want to feel as customers, and provide that same journey. Our coffee corner is a reflection of the fact that we want to share the customer experience with those who come to see us, it’s comfy and a good experience as, we hope, is the rest of the experience.”

“Some of the highlights here include our Harris Tweed chairs, beautifully upholstered

sofas and chunky, heavy furniture made of materials like mango wood which grows faster than oak, and is therefore considered more sustainable.” “We’ve created a choice of products with a high end, luxury feel especially with materials like leather and Harris Tweed. We think it’s important to create spaces in your home which are filled with beautiful furnishings.” “But we don’t believe that means sacrificing style or good design, so everything we’ve chosen is designed to enable you to impart individual character into your own home.” “It’s our values which make us unique, and ensure we offer customers a nicer experience. Pressure selling and volume sales aren’t considerations to us. We want our customers to feel valued and to choose items they’ll love having in their homes for years to come.” n

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Find Out More: All of the products featured here are available from Auburn Fox, based on 71-75 High Street, Thrapston, Kettering NN14 4JJ. Call 0330 1331799 or see www.auburnfox.co.uk.

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

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

01733 894422 | www.pdakitchens.co.uk

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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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THE RUG STUDIO

Beautiful Design at

YOUR FEET A beautiful investment for your home, something to make your living space a little cosier, or a way to finish off a reception room with style? Whatever your reason, Rachel Bassill and the team at The Rug Studio can help you find something beautiful and practical... Words: Rob Davis.

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RUGS YIELD RICHES for your country home. For whilst wooden floors or flagstones may be practical in country properties, the addition of a modern or antique rug adds warmth, and style, and they also remain a great way to bring the style and colour of a room down to Earth... in fact, you’ll have luxury, heritage, and craftsmanship literally at your feet. One person who knows only too well about the value that a rug can bring to your home is Rachel Bassill, who has 27 years experience and established The Rug Studio in 2000. After more than six years in Uppingham, she’s moved into a premises in Stamford affording her a convenient location from which to provide a sample of what’s available in respect of antique, contemporary and bespoke rugs. Rachel specialises in the ‘three Rs;’ not reading, writing and arithmetic, but retailing, repairing and restoring rugs, and at the heart of her expertise is huge knowledge about the countries that each of her rugs come from;

fine flat-weave geometric Kilims to thick, hand-spun Gabbehs from Persia, for example. Each rug is a suffused with cultural references, from different fibres and colours to the design and construction of each one, and the cultural significance of their design. Accordingly, Rachel’s products range from doormat-sized rugs to huge room-sized rugs seven metres by five metres. Prices can range from £40 to tens of thousands of pounds, and in the rare eventuality that you’re unable to find something in stock to suit your home, Rachel also offers a ‘finders’ service. Providing maintenance cleaning and restoration will also ensure that your rug remains an investment whose value can endure, but quite beyond the investment potential of a rug, though, Rachel is determined that each of her customers will find something practical, handmade and very beautiful that they’ll love having in their home for years to come. n

n The Rug Studio is based The Courtyard, just off Brownlow Street in Stamford, and has premises in London and Holt. For more information on the sale, restoration and repair of rugs, call 01780 239594 or visit www.therugstudio.co.uk. 93

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DARKE AV HOME TECHNOLOGY

TAMING YOUR

TECHNOLOGY If you’re the sort who just wants technology to work, and you’re keen to hide away cables, and future-proof your home, it’s time to switch on to Darke AV, specialist in seamless, bespoke integration of technology into your home... Words: Rob Davis.

IT’S OFTEN SAID that ‘technology is great... when it works.’ Wrong. Technology is great when its works for you. Unfortunately that’s not always the case. If you’ve wrestled with a rat’s nest of cables behind your TV, or tried in vain to tame your wi-fi to ensure its signal reaches everywhere in your home; if you’ve endured the slings and arrows of indecipherable instruction manuals, or been stuck on hold to a call centre, or if you’ve invested in technology only to find it’s outdated a few years... if any of these apply to you, your technology isn’t working for you – if it’s working at all. Happily, there’s an end in sight to your digital woes and a way to ensure that you can reclaim your home whilst also taking advantage of the latest home entertainment and automation technology. Darke AV was founded by Robert Sullivan on the simple premise that if technology doesn’t work in the way you want, it’s not doing its job. 94

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The Old Way

The old way is a TV with that rat’s nest of dusty cables behind, various boxes and remotes, plus different a Sky TV system setup or something similar for different rooms: disparate systems in each room for TV, audio and so on. The old way is conspicuous technology; cables, speakers, boxes... The old way, too, is the same inflexible wall switch for your lighting, having to manually operate curtains, blinds. The old way is separate systems for your home’s heating, ventilation, security systems, CCTV, or powered gates. The New Way

And then, there’s the new way. Darke AV can consolidate all of your separate home technology systems into a single integrated control. The process begins with a consultation which centres around how you use your media, where you use your media, and what brands or services you prefer using. From there, Robert and his team design a completely bespoke home control system which is completely tailored to your needs.

This usually starts with all of the boxes and cables hidden away, under the stairs or a similarly inconspicuous location. Wi-fi is distributed properly around your home for a robust connection, and according to your needs, Darke AV then deploys home cinema, TV, audio, and automated control of lighting, heating, ventilation, curtains, blinds and security systems. Everything is integrated so, for example, in your cinema room, a single push of a button might close the blinds, lower some of the lights, and deliver cinema-quality visual and audio entertainment. Technology on Your Terms

Best of all, instead of relying on a single proprietary system, Robert and his team can ensure all of your technology can integrate seamlessly with any services you already use. So for example, if you’re familiar with Sky TV or Spotify music streaming, or with Netflix or Apple, everything can be integrated to deliver a bespoke home automation solution on your terms.

You can control all of your home from a controller from specialist companies like Crestron or Control4, or from your iPad or iPhone, or from wall panels. Best of all, your investment in technology is future-proofed with extensibility built in and all cables and boxes able to be hidden away. Cinema screens can be deployed from the ceiling then hidden away; ‘invisible’ speakers can be plastered into the wall; cables can be hidden or done away with completely. Completely Bespoke

Darke AV’s services are completely bespoke, designed according to a client’s needs and to their budget. Future-proofing is an integral part of their design philosophy too, so you’ll never find yourself lumbered with obsolete technology. And of course, designed, installed, commissioned, and demonstrated by Robert, he’s the expert always at hand to ensure that all of your technology just... works! n Darke AV provides simple integrated technology, for a free, no obligation, jargon-free chat, email hello@darkeav.co.uk or see www.darkeav.co.uk. 95

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Unique and beautiful audio visual systems

Professional Interior Design Service Re-Upholstery and Soft Furnishings

WE MAKE TECHNOLOGY SIMPLE

MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH

01572 823389

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

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

01733 246 907 www.darkeav.co.uk

hello@darkeav.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL MARINE 96

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KITCHENS FROM WILLIAM HERCOCK

Make a New Year’s Resolution

FOR A KITCHEN REVOLUTION It’s time to make a New Year’s Resolution that doesn’t involve gruelling exercise regimes or fad diets, but will prove just as transformative to your life. A new kitchen from Oakham’s William Hercock will ensure you have a happy new year throughout 2022 and beyond... Words: Rob Davis.

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HOW ABOUT MAKING a New Year’s Resolution that you’ll actually enjoy keeping? Improve the look of your home, add value to your property and enjoy a brand new kitchen that will be a pleasure to spend time in, whether you’re cooking, dining or just spending time with the family. The kitchen is the very centre of family life, and if it’s poorly planned or doesn’t make you feel good, you won’t enjoy spending time in what is arguably the most important room in your home. A new kitchen is like a heart transplant for your home, and happily, William Hercock understands exactly what families are looking for when they undertake what is probably the biggest single investment in your home. The company was established in 1890 as a coal merchants and supplemented its winter fuel deliveries with the delivery of bricks in the summer months. Its Melton Mowbray builder’s merchant centre opened in 1984 followed by a second branch in Birstall in 2012 and an Oakham branch in 2017.

The Covid outbreak delayed the planned expansion but, William Hercock has just opened its new kitchen showroom on the first floor of its premises on Oakham’s Pillings Road. Partnering with Great British kitchen brand Symphony, you can now view nine different kitchens from the company, and have your kitchen planned in glorious full colour 3D by the firm’s in-house expert Carl Harris. Add quartz, granite or engineered stone work surfaces supplied in partnership with Midlands Stone, plus quality appliances from brands like – Neff, Smeg and Hotpoint – plus Franke sinks and taps, and a range of wall and floor tiles, and you’re well on your way to creating the kitchen of your dreams. The firm even provides bespoke lighting by The Anvil Lighting Company. William Hercock can also put you in touch with established fitters who can project manage your installation, providing great value, a great kitchen and a super facelift for your home... resulting in an investment you’ll enjoy in 2022 and for many years to come. n

n William Hercock provides a range of kitchens with 29 different styles and many colourways. For a free, no obligation discussion about your kitchen, call 01572 490790, visit William Hercock on Pillings Road, Oakham LE15 6QF, or see www.williamhercock.co.uk. 99

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A better looking driveway and greater kerb appeal with zeromaintenance...

rob has put this in - my suggestion for a filler

20% DISCOUNT FOR JANUARY/FEBRUARY INSTALLS * EIGHT YEARS EXPERIENCE CREATING BEAUTIFUL RESIN DRIVEWAYS n Porous, breathable, so water soaks away. No more puddles! n Up to 97% Weed Resistance compared to block paving or tarmac. n No more raking or dust from loose gravel; maintenance free. n Free site survey. No obligation. No pressureselling guaranteed.

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DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL RESIN DRIVEWAYS

or see www.lcslincs.co.uk

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LIMITED AVAILABILITY, SUBJECT TO FEASIBILITY

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Le Creuset traditional kettle £99. Stoneware mug £15/ea. Grand teapot £30-£50. Sugar bowl £15.

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HOMES

Aga Cooker

R3 Series, 110cm, £8,500 depending on configuration; www.agaliving.com.

Roberts Radio

Revival Mini, DAB, £99. www.robertsradio.com.

Smeg Fridge

70/30 fridge/freezer, £1,929. www.smeguk.com.

A HAZY SHADE OF

WINTER Dualit Toaster Four slice, £199.99. www.dualit.com.

Coffee Machine

Smeg, pastel blue £319. www.smeguk.com.

This month we present ice cool products for your home from leading designled manufacturers...

Pale Pacific Towel Bundle £4 (face cloth) - £22 (bath sheet). www.johnlewis.com.

Tableware Set

Azure Haze by Denby, 12 piece £168. www.denbypottery.com.

Stoneware Teapot Five cup teapot £40. www.lecreuset.co.uk.

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The Outcome of COP26 It’s now universally acknowledged that in every walk of life we must consider the planet. What does that mean when you replace your windows and doors? Roy Wakeman OBE, Chairman of the CTI (Confederation of Timber Industries) and of local Window and Door installer The New Window Company considers the future... Wood is now the centrepiece of the global strategy for tackling global warming and carbon emissions, following on from COP 26. Deforestation is to be halted and new forests are to be planted, a major commitment by all countries. We will all remember being taught about the process of photosynthesis at school where this process converts carbon from the atmosphere into nutrients for it to grow and then throws out oxygen as the by product. Forests are the lungs of the Earth. The spent carbon remains in the new wood of the tree and is trapped there for the lifetime of the tree or indeed anything that is made from the use of its timber, it is known as a carbon sink. Not surprising then that the consumer armed with this information is choosing timber for their houses and products within them. Modern Timber Windows and doors can now last for over 65 years as evidenced from the studies carried out by Herriot Watt University and the Industry can now offer long lasting external paint systems that carry a warranty of 12 years. The products are made using engineered timber components where 95% of the material is used as the initial waste is recycled at the source of extraction. As the components are made from cross sectioned laminated pieces there is little chance of movement or distortion which used to be a feature of wood windows. The New Window Company based at Frieston Heath

near Grantham has extensive modern show rooms and will be pleased to discuss customer’s needs. We are exclusive distributors in this region for Timber Windows. Double glazing is now a standard feature of Timber Windows and the Heritage market where listed buildings feature can now be catered for with ultra slim double-glazing units. As all products are made bespoke to customers’ requirements virtually every size and design can be met. So, period features from the classic years of Edwardian, Victorian and Georgian can be matched to comply with the requirements of the local planning guidelines. The embodied carbon is a key measurement of completed buildings and covers all the processes and products used in construction. We can all measure our own carbon footprint and suggest many do already. These can add up to the target of zero carbon set by our government by 2030 as will the conversion of heating boilers and other methods of power consumption from fossil fuels to green energy whether wind, solar or heat exchange. Timber Development UK have just launched the first technical paper to how to account for embodied carbon in timber construction by rigorously applying the British Standards. Timber is a natural material and the only raw material left on earth that can be renewed and replaced. New forests for commercial conversion are now being planted at increased rates across the world so that we should never have to worry about supply issues. n

Find Out More: New Window Company is based at Elms Farm, The Old Barn, Frieston Heath Lane, Grantham NG32 3HD. For a free no obligation discussion about your property’s needs call 01400 272538 or see www.new-window.co.uk.

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WEDDINGS

THE BEST THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT For Chloe and Joe, it seems like the best things really do come to those who wait. After a lengthy 10-year engagement the local couple tied the knot at a newly refurbished Haycock Hotel in August… Wedding Photographer: Rebekah Robert Photography, 07736 931496, www.rebekahrobert.com.

PRIORITIES. They’re so different today. In decades gone by, you’d marry first then move in with one another. Very few people do that today, and so when they do marry, it’s less about the beginning of a couple’s life together and more a statement of enduring love and permanence. Chloe Buckenham and Joe Carter were engaged some 10 years ago, enjoying a surprise proposal during a visit to London for Chloe’s 21st birthday. Since then, they’ve put their efforts into building good careers, making a home and raising their children Ryan and Jayden. Upon finally finding time to get married, their first step wasn’t to call the register office, or local church, or a wedding venue, but rather to seek advice from Chloe’s friend and very trusted friend Rebekah Wilson of Rebekah Robert Photography whose expertise, as an established wedding photographer, was something the couple were keen to make the most of. “She’s a brilliant photographer and works with her husband Rob, so together they capture the wedding from both the bride’s point of view and the groom’s point of view too.” “We also asked her advice on venues, too, but viewing them was a bit difficult at the time because of Covid. We originally planned the day for June but had to delay until August, when we could marry with fewer restrictions on social distancing and so on. One of the benefits of that, however, was that it meant that the refurbishment of The Haycock Hotel was complete.”

WEDDING SUPPLIERS CHLOE & JOE

“When we first looked around there was still work being completed, but the result is absolutely beautiful. They told us about the chandelier they’d ordered for the ballroom and the finishing touches they were about to introduce, and it all sounded amazing.” “Happily when the day arrived it all looked fantastic and what was really nice about the place is that it was large enough that the bride and the groom each had their own suites to get ready in, separate from each other, without seeing each other before the ceremony.” “We also liked the fact that the ceremony room and the ballroom for the reception were separate but right next to each other.”

Wedding Ceremony & Reception: The Haycock Hotel, Wansford, 01780 782223, haycock.co.uk. Wedding Dress: Susan Nicholas Opulent Bridal (SNOB), March, 01354 680077, www.s-n-o-b.co.uk. Groomsmens’ Outfits: Robert Goddard Tailoring, 01775 722001, www.robertgoddard.co.uk Venue Decoration: Fran Pacey, Attention 2 Detail, 07969 384677. Wedding Photographer: Rebekah Robert Photography, 07736 931496, www.rebekahrobert.com. n

Chloe says she was lucky too, with the dress she found at Snob, an acronym of Susan Nicholas Opulent Bridal. Susan is a stockist of Mori Lee gowns but she’s also a gifted dressmaker and created a bespoke wedding dress for Chloe which had a tapered A-line silhouette with a lace and bead overlay. “It was a beautiful gown, and Susan is really recommended, she really listens to what you want and delivers just the kind of wedding dress you want. I had no idea at first what I was looking for so that was really useful.” Lockdown also meant it was difficult to try on bridesmaids’ dresses and outfits for the grooms. Separate Zoom meetings to try on bridesmaids dresses led Chloe and her five bridesmaids to opt for some soft blush pink dressed she found at John Lewis. >> 107

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WEDDINGS

>> The groomsmen’s suits, meanwhile, were found at Robert Goddard menswear, and had a subtle pink pinstripe in the tailoring to bring out the couple’s chosen colour scheme. “We also found Fran Pacey from Attention 2 Detail, and she was really great. She provided the chair covers, styled the tables and created the table plan and name cards for the wedding reception tables. Again, everything she did tied in with our colour scheme, too.” “Our cake was created by Sherrie Ablett who created a two-tier Victoria sponge and worked with our florist, Sarah, who’s based in Wisbech, to decorate it with fresh flowers.” “It really was an amazing day, it was everything we hoped for and I wouldn’t change anything in terms of suppliers or where we married. In fact the only thing I’d have changed is the slight disaster which occurred right at the last minute.” “Just three days before the day my mum and stepdad tested positive for Covid and couldn’t be at the wedding. It was a real shame but I think it’s important when you’re planning a wedding to remember that not everything will go the way you want it to, the weather and so on. You’ve just got to let that go and enjoy yourself. The most important thing is to marry your best friend and to celebrate your love for one another.” n Wedding Photographer: Rebekah Robert Photography, call 07736 931496, or see www.rebekahrobert.com.

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A Good Rule of Plum When black is a little formal and red is a little too ﬂamboyant, a good rule of plum is to opt for something like the range of party dresses we’re showing oﬀ here... This Page: Reiss Bella velvet midi dress in berry £168.

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Karen Millen Sheer Panelled Knit Bandage Dress in plum £125.

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Joseph Ribkoff’s draped front dress in purple/plum £255.

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FASHION

Top/Left: Boden Livia velvet shift dress £98. Top/Right: Ted Baker short sleeve wrap maxi dress £269. Above/Left: Phase Eight Suzie beaded maxi dress £325. Above/Right: Reiss Livvy midi dress in wine £228.

Boden: www.boden.co.uk. Joseph Ribkoff: www.josephribkoff.com. Karen Millen: www.karenmillen.com. Phase Eight: www.phase-eight.com. Reiss: www.reiss.com. Ted Baker: www.tedbaker.com.

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COSMETICS

Red Carpet Treatments

A SELECTION OF HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS TO ENSURE YOU’RE RED AND READY FOR THE NEW YEAR

1. Guerlain’s winter scent inspired by the orient... A wonderful scent for winter inspired by the perfumers at Guerlian. Top notes of pink peppercorn, saffron and geranium provide a luxurious scent, whilst heart notes of rose and musk add body and base notes of citrus. Cedarwood and white amber finesse a combination which is floral, woody and long lasting. Ideal for wearing at any New Year’s Eve party, £147/125ml.

2. New year, new nails For the New Year, a new generation of Dior Vernis as the brand freshens up its palette of nail colours for 2022. In addition to new shades, the formula itself now features a ‘technopolymer’ for longer life bonding. Shown here is Rouge. Enhance with Case Coat Apricot, £22/10ml.

3. Matte from Mac High impact matte lips are promised from Mac with its new range of Powder Kiss lip colours. The firm promises 10 hours of colour, over 21 shades including Make Love to the Camera, shown here. An hourglass-shaped applicator perfectly follows the contour of the lips, £19.50/5ml.

5. A resolution to look good and feel great in 2022 Beauty is as much about health as it is appearance. Take care of yourself and it’ll reflect in the way you look. As well as getting enough sleep and staying hydrated, Clarins’ Super Restorative Remodelling Serum will help to replenish the skin, reducing deep wrinkles and correcting age spots. Ensure a healthy appearance with this number one spa brand, £70.55/30ml.

6. Awake refreshed thanks to ESpa Luxury spa brand ESpa presents a set of bedtime essentials beautifully packaged and designed to provide you with a good night’s sleep. The set comprises Restful Night Cream (100ml), Restful Bath & Night Oil (15ml), Restful Pillow Mist (100ml), Restful Pulse Point Oil (9ml) and a satin eye mask, each of which utilises lavender to ensure a peaceful and deep sleep, £60.

4. The eyes have it Charlotte Tilbury presents here new Colour Chameleon eye shadow pencils in eight hues including Bronzed Garnet. Infused with a synthetic sapphire, it enhances natural eye colours beautifully, £19, 1.6g.

n All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, please note that prices stated are RRP and may vary. 117

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DENTAL HEALTH CENTRE

Happy New Smile How about making a New Year’s Resolution you’ll be happy to stick to? To improve your confidence, feel healthier and happier; to smile with joy all through 2022. This month we’ll meet the team at The Dental Health Centre, whose job it is to help you fall in love with your smile all over again... A SMILE IS PRETTY EXTRAORDINARY. It can put people at ease, make people feel good about themselves, it’s a greeting which signifies warmth and equanimity... and let’s not forget, it’s one of the best fashion accessories you can ever wear, because an approachable, confident appearance makes everyone look and feel more beautiful. Sadly, not everyone feels confident about their smile, which is a shame because quite aside from the cosmetic benefits, healthy teeth and gums are an indication of general health and wellbeing. Too many of us still regard going to the dentist as a chore, rather than a pleasure, despite the fact that today, dentistry is virtually pain-free and can result in a joyously-improved smile. Not knowing exactly what treatment you need, what a procedure involves and how much it’ll cost often prevents people from seeking out an improved smile. What’s needed, then, is a sort of treatment coordinator who can answer questions, and act as a knowledgeable ambassador for the range of modern treatments on offer... and that’s exactly what Grantham based Dental Health Centre offers in Paula Parkes. “Sometimes people are nervous patients, sometimes they’ve had bad experiences with a dentist – usually an old school one, in their childhood – and sometimes just being in the chair makes them nervous,” says Paula.

“From there, we can advise on what’s available in modern dentistry. The industry has made incredible gains in terms of ensuring patient comfort and speeding up treatment.” “Our dental principal Colin Sutton has worked in the industry since 1988 and set up The Dental Health Centre back in 2005 with a view to creating a progressive environment in which patients are put at ease and the latest treatments and technology provide patients with a greater choice of effective treatment pathways than ever before.”

“Offering a free, no obligation consultation is something we’ve pioneered for a number of years now, and we’ve found that it’s the best way to put patients at ease.” “As dental professionals we know the techniques and procedures that are available to us, but sometimes the industry demands that people know the difference between a crown or a veneer or an implant... and it’s really not their job to know.” “What we provide is a patient-centred approach which aims to find out what the individual wants to achieve, what their concerns are and how we can help ensure the long-term health of their smile as well as improving its appearance.”

“The practice has also invested in technology to make patients’ treatment better, too. Our Cerec machine, for example, enables us to first take a 3D scan of a patient’s teeth and thereafter to mill and fit a bespoke dental crown or veneer to precisely fit their mouth.” “That’s not just technology for technology’s sake; it spares the patient a temporary crown and a second visit to have the permanent one fitted. Our implant technology, meanwhile, enables us to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel and work just like the patient’s original teeth.” “Patient care, the accessibility of our services and the latest treatments and technology all combine to create an experience that can transform not just your smile, but also your life, with new found confidence.” n

Find Out More: For a free, no obligation introduction to treatments, visit The Dental Health and Implant Centre on Avenue Road, Grantham, NG31 6TA, call 01476 594480 or see dentalhealthcentre.co.uk. 118

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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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An automotive interpretation of

Modern Luxury It’s a tall order indeed to reinvent a car that’s been an iconic sight in both town and country for over 50 years. There’s a lot riding on Land Rover’s new ﬂagship Range Rover. Can it deliver? Words: Rob Davis. BACK IN 1970 the world was a very different place indeed. There’s more technology in even modest cars today than it took to send a man to walk on the surface of the moon. Today’s cars are a mass of chips, sensors and driver aids, not to mention being rather more comfortable than anything you could pilot half a century ago, with better engineering, manufacturing and design. Looking back at the original Range Rover now it’s difficult to believe that it was considered the embodiment of comfort... it looks positively crude by today’s standards. 122

Over five generations, its successive reinvention has brought us right up to October 2021, when Land Rover chiefs unveiled an all new model for the 21st century to the world’s press at London’s Royal Opera House. Commensurate with a vehicle which is available to order now with first deliveries in spring 2022, it’s been created with an all new architecture that builds in electrification (full electrification will not be available until 2024) and eco-friendly qualities as well as reflecting traditional Range Rover values like space, luxury and terrific breadth of capability.

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MOTORS

With the advent of the Range Rover Sport, Velar and both Land Rover’s Discovery and Defender, the market place has become much more crowded in recent years, with the Range Rover jostling among its siblings to secure sales, never mind the fact that other manufactures like Bentley and Rolls, Aston Martin and Porsche have all entered the posh-SUV market.

For now though the Range Rover is available in SE, HSE and Autobiography trims, in both a standard and longer wheelbase version. Engine choices at launch include a 3.0V6 diesel (badged D300 and generating 300hp), 3.0V6 diesel (badged D350 and generating 350hp) and a P400 3.0V6 petrol generating, 400hp. At the top of the lineup is a 4.4V8 petrol unit generating 530hp.

With prices for the best vehicles now comfortably in the £150,000 region, this version of the Range Rover has been given the necessary breathing space to put some distance between its sub-£100,000 siblings and really make the new flagship special.

Two additional engines with plug-in hybrid technology and all-electric ranges of at least 60 miles are yet to go on sale and will doubtless lead to the extinction of diesel in the lineup, providing a last hooray for combustion prior to full electrification in a couple of years.

Accordingly, the new model starts at £94,400 and tops out at £131,000, which will increase when the dedicated sports model, which will be badged SV – a reference to the firm’s Special Vehicles Operations engineering department – launches later in 2022.

One very welcome addition to the new Range Rover is the option to specify six or seven seats including two ‘Executive Class Comfort Plus’ seats in the middle row, mostly aimed at the Chinese market where

Above: Luxury, all wheel drive, air suspension and the option of seven seats. Electrification is needed though.

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MOTORS

being chauffeured is more popular than self-driving. Otherwise, it’s possible to seat seven in comfort in the new model, and of course all seats can be heated, cooled, they can recline and provide a hot stone massage. In terms of spec, we’d recommend the shorter wheelbase unless you really do make the most of the rear seats, and spec those rearmost seats according to your needs. We think the D300 has all of the smoothness, power and economy you’ll need, although we’ll quickly consider the plug-in hybrid model instead, as soon as it launches. Likewise, base SE trim is very well equipped indeed with adaptive cruise and a 3D camera making motorway driving and parking easy. 124

Heated seats in the front and rear, electrically adjustable and clad in leather, plus a heated steering wheel, panoramic roof and a power tailgate are all standard, so we’d opt for the SE and add perhaps a few choice options like Park Assist for automated parking, which will pay for its £250 list price the first time it spares you the ignominy of a scuffed bumper in a tight car park. Being a Range Rover, an eight speed auto gearbox, low range gears, air suspension and the company’s Terrain Response system are all standard. There’s probably no terrain around the county that a Range Rover driver would find inaccessible, and not only will you get there, you’ll do so in style, comfort and in unashamed luxury. n

THE DETAILS

Range Rover

Price: £94,400, D300 SE (first deliveries March 2022). Powertrain: 3.0L 300HP diesel, all wheel drive, eight-speed auto box. Performance: 0-62mph: 6.5 seconds, top speed 135mph. Economy 36.7mpg, 202g/km, Equipment: Heated electrically adjustable leather seats, 360° camera, adaptive cruise, navigation, heated steering wheel, power tailgate, soft door close, keyless entry, Apple Carplay. n

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WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR

LAND ROVER?

Last month Jaguar Land Rover revealed that its business lost £302m from the period July-September 2021. Covid, Brexit and the current shortage of semiconductors (chips used in everything from anti-lock brakes and engine management systems to your car’s air conditioning and hi-fi) were to blame for supply problems and for sluggish sales. In fact the company says that it has its lowest ever level of inventory (i.e.: the number of available cars that dealers can nab for buyers seeking a particular model or configuration). The company remains optimistic though, not least because with outstanding orders of 120,000 vehicles waiting to be satisfied, there’s still very strong demand for its best model lineup ever. The new Defender, expensive as it is, has been enormously well-received and it’s currently outselling the firm’s Discovery by roughly three to one. With the new Range Rover providing the firm with a fitting flagship, and with electrification now possible across the firm’s range, 2022 is looking very bright indeed for the company and Land Rover is set to enjoy a bumper year. n

Land Rover Sales by Model: Sales, January-October 2021. Land Rover Defender: 50,882. Range Rover Evoque: 50,299. Range Rover Sport: 46,279. Land Rover Discovery Sport: 43,618. Range Rover: 32,474. Range Rover Velar: 30,047. Land Rover Discovery: 15,268. n

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MOTORS

The 4x4 that’s going back to

Where It All Began We’ve already seen how much the 2022 Range Rover has evolved over half a century and ﬁve successive iterations, but some have their attention focused ﬁrmly on the past, not the future... Words: Rob Davis. BEING WEALTHY definitely has its advantages. Say your favourite car has been discontinued, and the new model just doesn’t excite you. Most of us could do little about that, but Sir James ‘Jim’ Ratcliffe isn’t most people: he’s the richest man in the UK, worth £21bn and has interests in chemicals, industry and finance. He also has a favourite pub, The Grenadier Arms in London’s Belgravia, and it was in that very pub that the billionaire was decrying the loss of a proper Land Rover Defender. 126

A pint or two, some pork scratchings and a game of darts later, he thought that as he can’t buy one... he’ll just make one, instead. Doubtless the new Land Rover Defender is a phenomenal car, but it’s pricy, electronic and a world away from the original. Not that the original was without its flaws; it was crude, uncomfortable and wouldn’t cope with being upgraded to adhere to increasingly stringent crash or emissions standards, let alone electrification. Jim Ratcliffe’s new Ineos Grenadier, then, is rather more faithful to the formula of the original Defender.

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For a start it’s going to be priced from £48,000. It will also be available as a double cab pick-up, a two seater utility wagon and a station wagon version too. BMW will provide its 3.0 straight six engine, in either petrol or diesel flavour, and in addition to an eight speed gearbox, you’ll have permanent four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer box with low range gears, centre, rear and front locking differentials, and 17” steel wheels that’ll stand up to real punishment. Looking decidedly like a Defender, it’s the car that Land Rover’s reboot should have been; rugged, practical and no-nonsense. Order books are open now, and already, it looks like Jim will be very pleased with the car he’s built to celebrate and reinvent a true motoring legend. n

THE DETAILS

Ineos Grenadier Price: From £48,000, available to order now, first deliveries from summer 2022. Powertrain: 3.0L straight six diesel, all wheel drive, eight-speed auto box. Equipment: Permanent four-wheel drive, two-speed transfer case, locking differentials, electrical power takeoff, USB, Recaro seats, Pathfinder off-road navigation, park assist, heated seats, optional leather. n 127

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MOTORS

A new SL from Mercedes MERCEDES REVEALS ITS BRAND NEW SL ROADSTER, WITH DELIVERIES ANTICIPATED JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER...

Michelin announces airless tyre for 2024 launch... Could the holy grail of tyres be just around the corner? Michelin has announced a 2024 launch date for its airless tyre, made from rubber and fibreglass promising better environmental credentials and savings on fuel. Over 50 patents for the design have been registered, and it’s hoped that when the tyres proliferate, checking tyre pressures, flats, jacks and spares might all be consigned to the history books! n MICHELIN

MERCEDES Nearly 70 years after the original launch of the Mercedes Benz SL300, the company has revealed what its new generation flagship two seater sports car will look like.

The luxurious roadster is now a 2+2 seater and the new model puts its power down on the road with all-wheel drive for the first time. Elsewhere, too, it’s all change!

One of the most notable features of the new model is the omission of a metal folding roof in favour of a lighter and simpler fabric roof. Engines available from launch will include a Mercedes 4.0V8, and though the diesel engine is likely to be consigned to history, electrification should soon be available too, alongside a fierce AMG version, too. n

An electrified classic Aston...

EVEN Q BRANCH WOULD BE PROUD OF THIS TECHNICALLY SOPHISTICATED ELECTRIC REBOOT OF 007’S CLASSIC ASTON

LUNAZ The newest electric cars from mainstream manufacturers are very modern looking, so if you’re looking for an electric car which still has the grace and lines of cars like the classic GTs designed by British marque Aston Martin, look no further. Lunaz can electrify a DB6 now, and have it delivered to you for 2023, although the price of £750,000 might prove to be somewhat shocking. In addition to a 80-120kWh motor, the DB6’s cabin has been upgraded with air con and modern sat nav. Lunaz claims the car will have a range of around 255 miles and will generate about 700Nm of torque. n

MOTORING

NEWS In Brief

MOTORING HISTORY

125 YEARS OF MOTORING HISTORY TO VIEW ONLINE

Back on the 2nd November 1895, Autocar magazine published its first edition and it still publishes its printed magazine 125 years later. Since then successive journalists have produced 6,000 editions and 1.1 million pages. And the entire archive is now available to view online. Curious about which cars were on the market during the year of your birth? Keen to read a road test on the first car you ever owned? Fancy some motoring nostalgia? Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll be able to delve into what is probably the world’s most comprehensive and objective motoring archive, charting the evolution of the ‘mechanically propelled road carriage.’ n You can enjoy your first 14 days of access for free. See themotoringarchive.com join and enter the code AUTOCAR007 to start your free trial. 129

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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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Stamford Pride January 2022

Articles inside

MOTORS Luxury and practicality from an all-new Range Rover.

WEDDINGS The best things come to those who wait... just ask Chloe and Joe, this month’s featured couple.

FASHION Beautiful party dresses for New Year’s Eve, plus the latest red-themed cosmetics.

WHAT’S ON January’s live events

THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS

HOMES Welcome in winter with the latest home furnishings.

WELCOME HOME An incredible

THE WINE CELLAR Fizz for your

NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford. This month, a Roman find in Rutland causes excitement.

SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

RECIPES A couple of delicious puddings to sweeten up your winter.