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Ensum Brown Property Premiere Fed up losing out on the best homes when they come to the market? Want to see properties before they are even on Rightmove? Well now you can… Request to join by going to Facebook and searching for “Ensum Brown Property Premiere” or visit: www.facebook.com/groups/ensumbrownpropertypremiere
Visit: ensumbrown.com • Follow us on Facebook @EnsumBrownRoyston
8 High St, Royston, SG8 9AG | +44(0)1763 244 705
We are an exclusive, independent family run business, based in the heart of our picturesque town of Royston. Established in 2012, we are very much a modern company with traditional values at heart.
ww.hcjewellers.co.uk | @hc_jewellers
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www.vis i o nki tch ensan d i nteri o rs.co.uk
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Josh Murphy Sophie Murphy Steve Eggs Ellie Laughlin
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Welcome to Stones, a local magazine for Royston and the surrounding areas, aimed at producing great content to inspire lifestyle choices, brought to you by local creatives from Sanders and Jay, Design and Marketing Agency. Stones is a lifestyle guide for the local community where we hope to inspire, educate and inform you on all of the best things about where we live, including; food, fitness, fashion, home, leisure and much more. One of the best things to come out of the latest pandemic is the drive towards eat, drink and shop local and we want to carry on the good work of all of those around us so far. Where we lived in closer proximity, we were forced to rethink, reevaluate, take note of our habits and what we had become accustomed to. By doing so, we have actually realised what was right in front of our eyes. We don’t have to go miles to get great products or services, we are surrounded by great produce and facilities closer to home and we are actually spoilt for choice in our local area. Let’s stick together and create an environment we are all proud to call home.
Josh Murphy
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F O O D • D R I N K • W O R K M E E T I N G S • E V E N T S
(Mon - Fri) 07:30 - 17:30 (Sat & Sun) 08:30 - 16:30 42 High Street, Royston, Herts, SG8 9AG hello@kookynohmad.co.uk • 01763 258965
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PLACES
p10. Back to Life
p16. Coffee Time
Looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel and how all our lives have changed.
After a successful first year, find out more about Royston’s breath of fresh air, Kooky Nohmad.
p12. New Mayor in Town
p26. Swinging into Action
Stones team up with Mayor Mark Hughes and discuss plans for the future of our town.
Be inspired by the hard graft to make Kingsway Golf Centre a real family-friendly destination.
p14. Special Delivery
p30. Fox and Hounds
Highlighting some of the remarkable work done by people in our community.
Welcome to Fox and Hounds, Barley. This 350-year-old pub has been beautifully restored.
p40. On Our Island With travel restrictions in place, we look at some of the beautiful destinations you can visit without your passport!
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p44. Cross Fit
p58. Outdoor Living
We find out more about the increasingly popular work out that is taking the exercise world by storm.
Get your garden summer-ready with inspiration from Interior Stylist Celine Bridier.
p48. The Great Outdoors We take a minute to appreciate some of our amazing natural surroundings.
PROPERT Y
p60. Properties Looking for a place to call home? Check out some of the latest properties available in our area.
p50. Stop Litter in it’s Tracks Royston Conservators strive to reduce littering in our town.
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PA S T
p64. Watch & Listen
p62. Town Trail #01
Stuck on what to watch and listen to next? Let us help!
Throughout our issues we will guide you through Royston’s historical trail.
back to life 10
back to reality
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BAC K
Almost every aspect of society will change after the pandemic, and some of the positive changes we’ve built into our reality over the last year, you may want to carry with you as we look forward. What does reality look like for you? Have you found new ways of working? Are there things in the pandemic that you will adopt as restrictions ease and life returns? It’s been nearly 18 months now since the pandemic began in March 2020. No-one could foresee what laid ahead for the next 18 months. The challenges, restrictions and guidelines that awaited. The new mental checklist when leaving the house; masks and hand sanitiser, as important as your car keys and wallet. The discovery of new landmarks around places you’ve lived for so many years, due to daily lockdown walks. The awkward first date type “nod, smile, elbow” when meeting people, in replace of the traditional handshake and the awkward wave as you finish up on your video call. But perhaps you have enjoyed the new pace of life, less commuting, more time at home with the family. Parents have been more visible, able to spend more quality time with children and family, time which previously was spent commuting. Mealtimes have perhaps become earlier, together, rather than staggered times. There’s been more virtual interaction with distant family members through new-age technology, video call catch-ups and (now tireless) quizzes. The home work balance has altered, if you’ve needed a plumber or you’re waiting for a parcel it hasn’t been such an ordeal as previous times. Employees are now more understanding of home and family situations. Has home life and work blurred into one? Is working from home a positive or negative? Perhaps now work has blurred into home life too much? The working day now blurred into evenings? Or bedrooms and living rooms have become offices? Longing for covid safe days? Whatever your experience of lockdown and this last 18 months have been, there feels like there is light at the end of the tunnel. A sense of reality and normality resuming with social gatherings and human interaction returning, leisure and entertainment industries opening their doors, restrictions relaxing. Of course, we must still be vigilant, but ascertain a level of normality and sense of reality. We can break out of our bubbles (with caution) and resume the human interactive nature, but perhaps carry with us some positive changes from what we have learnt and experienced during the pandemic.
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NEW MAYOR IN TOWN Over the years, we have seen Royston flourish into a popular town for all ages, with amazing transport links, fantastic facilities, surrounded by natural beauty, and recently described as a property hotspot. Someone who can see the transformation over the years is Mark Hughes, who has recently embarked on his second spell as the town mayor and can’t wait to take on the challenge once more. Mayor Mark Hughes has described Royston as being ‘primed for take off ’ and we must agree, with its population expanding and more businesses looking to open up in Royston, we can see it is in for another phase of transformation. When speaking to Mark it was apparent that during his term as mayor, he is very much looking to the future. Since first elected as mayor back in 1990, Royston has been on a journey, where it has been shaped by expanding technology, culture and consumer needs to be where it is today. Marks’ big focus is “What is Royston going to look like in 30 years from now?” Not only that, but how will the world look in 30 years from now. Although some long for the time where Royston was a simple town, we now strive towards doing our part to shape the future of the place we call home. Mark is focused on pulling a community together, building on the work over the course of the last year where many in the community rallied together and this is something Mark would like to continue on. At Stones, our mission is, to make Royston a place we are proud to call home, and we believe Mark shares this same mission, we have already discussed a number of initiatives in which we can inspire everyone in Royston to adopt this same attitude. So keep your eyes peeled for how we at Stones, with the help of Mark are looking to appreciate this beautiful town.
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S A F WA A N
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S P E C I A L D E L I V E R Y Since the pandemic began, the community in and around Royston really rallied together to provide support for each other, and we would like to highlight some of the amazing work done by local people around us, in hopes we can inspire others with their stories. Safwaan Choudhury, the owner of The British Raj and his team are some of those people that have been inspiring many around our community with their acts of selflessness. Back when the pandemic began, Safwaan and the team, like us all, were admirers of the work done by those working for the NHS, and other frontline staff. Throughout the pandemic, the frontline workers were under an immense amount of pressure, working tirelessly to deal with all the effects of the virus. This inspired him to do something amazing. Safwaan and his team then made the decision to make over 4000 free meals to those working on the frontline throughout the course of last year. The
British Raj team worked outside of their usual opening hours to ensure our local frontline workers were being fed. This amazing gesture helped and was appreciated by many frontline staff who were often working long shifts and have been regarded as heroes of the pandemic. Safwaan & his team gained many of their own admirers for their work in the community, and as a result, were awarded “Hero of Hertfordshire” accolades by Her Majesty’s LordLieutenant of Hertfordshire. In addition to this they were awarded a prestigious British Curry Award (regarded as ‘the Oscars of the curry industry’) in a special ceremony recognising the contribution of curry restaurants during the pandemic, British Raj Express won the ‘Best Takeaway During the Pandemic’ category. We are proud to have people like Safwaan and his team amongst our community in Royston, so make visit British Raj Express if you haven’t already to support some of our local heroes.
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KO OK Y
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COFFEE TIME
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Kooky Nohmad was created by local nohmads, who were moving from cafe to coffee shop, looking for a place to settle over a coffee and manage their working day. This became an opportunity to embrace the new modern era of home working, which has accelerated due to the effects of the pandemic. Their aim was to rewrite the script and provide something for all. Whether it be having a leisurely catch up over coffee or being able to jump into a booth to take a business call, or perhaps a mix of both; Kooky offers a solution for all. One year on and Kooky Nohmad has been through a journey. Kooky has been described by some of its customers as ‘a breath of fresh air’ to the Royston High Street at a time when the community was in need of ‘coming together’ and they are not wrong! Bringing a sense of style to the high street with its unique offering, diverse brunch menu, artisan coffee, workspace and much more, it’s clear to see why it’s had such a successful first year. Kooky has an energetic vibe in which you can relax, enjoy healthy food and drink, whilst surrounded by like-minded creatives. The Kooky community is growing and growing making it an excellent place to visit and to be a part of. After their journey began at a tough time, the Kooky team have taken it all in their stride. Having opened initially as a takeaway in the early stages due to government guidelines, Kooky was well-positioned to deliver against the demand for all those Nohmads wandering around the town on daily walks looking for a place to graze or grab a refreshment with its sliding window hatch. It provided people with at least a sense of normality throughout what was a difficult time for all. As Kooky was inspired by European coffee culture prior to the pandemic, it enabled them to quickly adapt to life as we knew it with their team of baristas serving numerous coffees and healthy takeaway options, without anyone having to come inside. Even without their doors opened, Kooky still managed to establish a sense of community with their customers which continued through all the changes in restrictions. The timing wasn’t perfect, but they have certainly made the most of the situation and proved to be a great example of agility through the recent challenges, which has set them up perfectly now that their doors are open, and the town can experience so much more of what it has to offer.
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As the hospitality industry gradually reopened; firstly, with outdoor eating and more recently indoor dining, Kooky has grown in stature with every move. The outdoor seating has created a fantastic and social atmosphere along the high street, where a gentle rumble of chatter can be heard from people enjoying time together over a delicious coffee, following months of living in isolation. Now that the doors are wide open, we are now able to truly enjoy the full extent of what Kooky has to offer for so many different walks of life in the town. Its rustic yet modern decor, accompanied by interchanging art from local artists provides the perfect setting for so many individuals. Whether it’s for a coffee catch up, brunch, lunch, a few hours at the ‘office’ or a central base for your business, Kooky aims to cater for all. Kooky has an exciting range of food available, we have worked our way through most of the dishes on the menu during our tasting session and it certainly did not disappoint. With a wide range of options on the menu to cater for vegetarians, vegans and all of those in-between. It also caters for those looking to make a healthy choice as well as those looking for something a little bit more naughty.
“We wanted to create a space and offering unique to Royston that provides a little for everyone in the community” Josh Murphy, Co-Founder Kooky Nohmad
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Above: Chef Ross adding finishing touches to grilled asparagus, with poached egg and grilled potato rosti. Top left: Kooky’s popular overnight oats with a summer berry compote. Left: Start your morning with Kooky’s Granola bowl with coconut yogurt and cherry compote.
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Photo supplied by: Glenn Sparkes of Brick Images.
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K O O K Y M E A N S BUSINESS
Finding co-working “offices” too stuffy and cafes not accommodating enough for important business calls. Kooky has designed something that offers a space for the casual worker all the way through to being a resident business, such as Ensum Brown Estate Agency and Sanders and Jay, Design and Marketing Agency who have both flourished during the past year capitalising on being associated with Kooky and its sense of community. Kooky is perfect for a range of business people, from creative freelancers, startups to bigger businesses. Although Kooky isn’t an exclusive membership club they do have a variety of membership options available that allows you to make the most of their space through the use of private hire meeting rooms, phone booths and printing options.
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Not only does Kooky make an excellent place to work, but all those in there get the chance to network with the other businesses. Whether you are popping in for a meeting or spending the day working there you have the chance to chat with other business people from the local area and make those all-important connections. Businesses have found that throughout the last year the chance to network with other businesses has been difficult, so the social interaction Kooky provides has been perfect for businesses looking to thrive. The fantastic team of staff also are on hand to keep you fuelled with coffee, refreshments and a smile, which has been a saving grace for many business people, during such an isolating time. Hearing from some of the businesses that are based in Kooky, it’s clear to see that it’s been a huge contributing factor to the success of these local businesses. So if you’re a business looking for an agile working environment, maybe joining the Kooky Nohmad business community might be for you, after all, who wouldn’t want to work somewhere surrounded by delicious coffee, food and drink?
Left: One of our private meeting rooms available to book online.
“Being based in Kooky is fantastic for our business, where we have the ability to scale up without the pressure of owning or renting a big premise, meet people every day in the ‘office’ rather than waiting for people to come to us. Kooky has been fundamental to our growth as a business where we are now no.1 estate agency in Royston. There have been 3 big benefits, one being the social interaction between our team and with other businesses. The collaborative environment it creates and finally the service we get from the excellent staff that really look after us” Neil Wise, Founder of Ensum Brown Estate Agency.
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W H E R E M A K E S
T H E
D E T A I L D I F F E R E N C E
www.carloandco.uk • @carloandco Royston - 01763 226054 • Letchworth - 01462 683751
www.britishraj.co.uk
High Street, Barley, Royston, SG8 8HY 01763 802 505, www.foxandhoundsbarley.com @foxhoundsbarley
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The last year has proven to be a challenging time for many businesses with lockdown restrictions, meaning numerous industries have spent a large part of the last year closed, however, some have utilised their time and adapted for the future. Kingsway Golf Centre based in Melbourn has gone from strength to strength over the years and most recently transforming its premises, with a new extension, refresh in décor, and the amazing Jurassic Golf. Take a bow for making the most of the downtime. By being a golf centre, rather than a golf club, Kingsway welcomes all to enjoy their facilities where they have a mission to introduce and inspire people to the wonderful game of golf, for all ages and abilities. With its relaxed atmosphere, no stuffy dress code, you will find a wide variety of ways to get involved, from professional coaching, pitch and putt, crazy golf, to a 9 hole course for the more advanced avid golfer. Need more practice? Head over to the driving range fully equipped with Toptracer Range, allowing players to get the full effect by playing a number of virtual courses or compete against friends, or even just use it to practice improving their own game. For those looking to improve their golf game, Toptracer Range tracks every ball hit so you can get instant results and feedback. So maybe golf isn’t your thing, but you’re still looking for a fun activity to try out. No problem, as Kingsway also allows you to try Footgolf, so if you’re more of a football fan, but your friends like golf, why not try a mix of both! Kingsway is also the home to one of the largest golf retail stores in Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire, so whether you’re an avid golfer looking for new equipment, or don’t know golf at all, but searching for a gift AF Golf Store can help!
Left: The all new driving range powered by Toptracer. Right: The stunning new Jamaica Blue café, serving tasty food throughout the day.
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J U R A S S I C L I N K S Finally, introducing the new Kingsway’s Jurassic Links Adventure Golf, where you will find 18 holes of non-stop dinosaur fun, where you will go through waterfalls and valleys, making it the ideal day out for the family. This Adventure Golf has been such a hit right from the off, where you may have to book ahead to avoid disappointment. The holes are challenging enough to make it a real dual but achievable for all to make it fun for all, playing the ball through the jaws of a prehistoric giant to rolling into the ranger’s truck! This is a must-do family day out and you won’t be disappointed. Just to finish it off you can count up the scores in the all-new Jamaica Blue café.
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F OX & HOU N D S
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P L AC E S
Welcome to The Fox and Hounds, a 350-year-old, 17th century Grade two listed pub that has been beautifully restored to give the perfect balance between a traditional pub and a modern, ever-changing seasonal menu that is quite simply outstanding. Set up in the rolling hills of the wonderful rural location of Barley, this superb dining pub has a feel of class and elegance, whilst maintaining a soft family feel – something special for locals and visitors alike.
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Right: The beautiful garden area perfect for events and celebrations.
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The Fox and Hounds and acclaimed Head Chef Bret Barnes have created an incredible reputation in such a small space of time, featuring in the Michelin Star Guide, nominated for Best Newcomer Gastro Pub, and recognised as Outstanding in the Diners Choice awards. “The 17C Fox & Hounds oozes character, with its cosy bar, impressive inglenook fireplace, rustic restaurant and charming terrace. Cooking is hearty and satisfying, with ingredients sourced from within 30 miles and an emphasis on rare breed meats. The appealing menu mixes pub classics and modern British fare.” Thinking Local – The unique menu uses traditional cooking methods such as smoking, grilling, and curing taking advantage of the vast array of delicious local produce, adding to their beautiful flavours and local economy. Following the latest easing of restrictions, the Summer Of ’21 will surely go down in history as the Summer Of Love, where people are reunited with the ones loved ones and the outside space at the Fox, provides the perfect stage for an outdoor family get together. During the summer months, you can make the most of the beautifully presented outdoor sun terrace, outdoor bar and childrens play ares. So whether you are looking for a light bite, beer in the sun, or fine dining, the Fox and Hounds have got you covered for a summers day in the sun.
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F OX & HOU N D S
“We have been amazed with the support since opening back in 2019 and we are truly grateful for everyone that has found us so far. Since we opened, we have tried to keep a wellbalanced menu, where we utilise local and seasonal produce to keep the menu moving forward, challenging ourselves to inspire our guests and give them a reason to keep coming back.” Brett Barnes, Head Chef.
Above: Head Chef, Brett Barnes. Right: Our elegant and traditional dining area.
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Photography: Cristian Barnett
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+ Strategy We provide a creative, dynamic approach to strategic and tactical thinking, designed to establish, and accelerate the growth of your brand.
+ Create We create big ideas that inspire, engage and excite consumers and clients alike, by investing time in getting to know a business from the inside out, so that we completely understand the vision, allowing us to deliver upon your message.
+ Nurture We pride ourselves on creating ongoing partnerships, where we become brand ambassadors driving change, transformation, and success for all.
Hertfordshire based Design and Marketing agency, provide creative design services to elevate your brand beyond the competition. We help businesses create big ideas that inspire people and engage their clients or consumers to buy into their product or service. We invest time in getting to know a business from the inside out, so that we completely understand your message and vision which allows us to deliver outstanding visuals.
www.sandersandjay.com | @sandersandjay
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At last, a stylish baby bag with a detachable clutch www.neoandnessa.com @neoandnessabags
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U N I T E D
K I N G D OM
O N O U R We are lucky to live in a world with so many beautiful places to explore, you could travel your entire life and not run out of things to see. Whether you’re into nature, architecture or even just like to explore excellent cuisine, the world truly has been your oyster. However, over the last year for individuals, our world has ‘shrunk’ with opportunities to travel abroad being uncertain. For many not being able to travel has stopped us from being able to see all the wonderful sights of our planet. Or so we thought anyway… When you think of holidays, especially summer holidays, for many of us, our minds go to Spain, Italy or even further afield to tropical destinations such as the Caribbean. With travel restrictions in place over the last year, we have been inspired to rediscover some of the beauty we can visit without restrictions, and without a passport. The UK is home to tons of amazing beauty, you’ll find stunning beaches for those of you longing for Mediterranean sun. Whether you visit Guernsey, Cornwall or opt for a more modern beach stay in somewhere like Bournemouth, the UK has plenty of answers for beach lovers.
For those of you looking to get in touch with nature the UK has a variety of lodge type retreats. The lake district has always been a firm favourite for UK stays, but with UK holidays becoming the go-to this summer, you may opt to look elsewhere. Norfolk and Somerset are both areas surrounded by the great outdoors with vast areas of woodland, perfect for calming walks and trails. If you are into architecture, there are places to suit everyone’s tastes too. Little Switzerland in Devon is known for its picturesque buildings along the coast, or perhaps you want to feel like you are in the big city? In that case, Bath provides beautiful historical buildings, whilst still having the feel of a modern city. Remember, wherever you choose to go this summer and beyond, the hospitality industry in the UK is one industry that has been greatly affected over the last year, so where possible, eat, drink, shop out and support local businesses in the area. Finally, and most importantly, when it is time to get the passport out again make sure you consider your options on your doorstep too.
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I S L A N D
Above: Porthcurno, Cornwall
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Left: Oxford, Oxfordshire
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Right: Quiraing, Scotland
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L I F E Z ON E
C RO S SF I T
CrossFit became an exciting popular workout a few years ago when box gyms began popping up not only across the UK, but across the world and it’s evident to see that the movement continues to grow in popularity, especially in our local area. For those still living under a dumbbell since its inception, CrossFit promotes a culture of autonomy and accountability, whilst being presented with scalable workouts that vary daily, allowing athletes of any fitness level to compete against one another. Before you think, I am carrying a little lockdown weight, I’m in!... Let’s determine if it’s right for you.
CROSSFIT One element that has stood out to us is that Crossfit is ideal if you seek encouragement and support when wanting to improve your fitness. Within CrossFit there seems to be a real sense of community spirit, where you will receive nothing but encouragement whilst you build your way into the programme and beyond. Each workout will test a different part of your functional strength or conditioning, not specialising in one particular thing, but rather with the goal of building a body that’s capable of practically anything and everything. Rather than having one workout for older women and another for hardcore athletes – there’s ONE workout each day that is completely scalable based on your skill.
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L I F E Z ON E
C RO S SF I T
Each workout will test a different part of your functional strength or conditioning, not specialising in one particular thing, but rather with the goal of building a body that’s capable of practically anything and everything. Photography: Vanessa Mills
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Lifezone CrossFit is not a regular gym, it is a lifestyle characterised by safe, effective exercise and sound nutrition. Whatever your goal, improved health, weight loss, time out from working/ family life to better sport performance, CrossFit will accomplish all! “The program works for everyone, our members vary in degrees of fitness and ages. It is inclusive to all, every movement is scalable or adaptable, so whatever your current fitness level Lifezone CrossFit will deliver success!
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We measure fitness not by specialisation but by variation. We combine stretching, squatting, lifting, pressing, gymnastics, biking, rowing &, running, hard and fast! Our workouts are not predictable or repetitive, we mix a variety of movements essential to daily life and keep it short and intense! Our gym is a well-maintained safe environment with excellent equipment and outstanding coaching. Our workouts are not only undertaken inside, but outside, weather permitting.
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Lifezone is friendly and welcoming to all, so not only do you have a coach supporting you every step of the way, but a group of people who are also on their own journey to be in the best shape of their lives.” Come and see us, you can contact us by email info@lifezonecrossfit.com to arrange a visit and book a free session. Unit 8A Highfields Farm, Old North Road, Bassingbourn, Royston SG8 5JT lifezonecrossfit.com
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THE GREAT OUTDOORS
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Throughout the last year, we have been encouraged to explore the great outdoors in Royston and the neighbouring villages and we are so fortunate to be surrounded by such amazing natural beauty. Throughout the pandemic, the opportunity for exercise has provided the perfect platform for our community to explore, find and appreciate the simpler things in life with countless hours spent outdoors. Whether it be hiking or cycling, many of us have new appreciation for the beauty around us. For most this has been a positive outcome of the situation, where it gave us the opportunity to appreciate the great outdoors, and many have developed a newfound love for the environment around us. The natural landscape surrounding Royston and the local villages are stunning we are very grateful to have such a perfect setting. We are inspired now more than ever to take care of the environment we are lucky enough to be surrounded by. Even though things have opened up again, we think it’s important to continue the appreciation for The Great Outdoors, so if you have you got a favourite walk or trail around the area? Let us know at @stonesmag!
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STOP LITTER IN ITS TRACKS Whilst the great outdoor has been a saving grace for many, we need to make sure that the land we most treasure is protected and preserved. Someone keen to ensure we look after our natural surroundings is Ben Harrop, one of the Conservators of Therfield Heath and Greens, which are responsible for the protection of the Heath. “I’ve lived in Royston for 7 years and the Heath is something that made us choose Royston as a place to move to and I want to help give something back and make it a place we are all very proud of. Over the lockdown, I started a project to restore a vintage tractor, which is something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. Having finished the restoration, what surprised me was the positive reaction I got from people, young and old when I drive it around town and it made me think that I could use it to advertise how important our environment and surrounding countryside is.” ‘I approached Sanders and Jay, a Design and Marketing Agency and the Stones Magazine, who are both based in Royston to pitch the idea of using my tractor to promote the importance of the Heath and protecting our local environment. I found they were like-minded and passionate about the local community in Royston and its surrounding countryside. We are now working together to develop a blueprint to communicate to everyone the opportunity we all have to preserve our surroundings for future generations to come.’ Ben Harrop, Conservator of Therfield Heath and Greens
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Images: Ben’s 1959 Massey Ferguson 35 tractor.
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d a r u o Y e r he
Showcase your business here, for more information please contact our team advertise@stonesmagazine.com
P R E S E N T S
BY E BY E S U M M E R
FA M I LY FESTIVAL SUN 29
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AUGUST
L I V E M U S I C \ G A R D E N G A M E S B B Q \ B A R \ F A C E P A I N T I N G + M O R E
ADULTS £10 CHILD £5 (8-18YRS)
50% of ticket price will be donated to
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www.celinebridier.com @celinebridier_stylist
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OU T D O OR
L I V I N G
I N G T H E G G A R D E N Outdoor living trends have been an active growing topic now for the last 2 years. But since the Covid-19 pandemic, we have been seeing a real elevation of the importance of having private space just beyond our own doors. With summer here, it’s important to make the most of our own outdoor space as the sun is vital to lifting our spirits and energising us. With restrictions lifting, what can be better than to gather with our family and friends and enjoy this precious time in style. With that being said, let me give you my predictions on garden trends for 2021. Interior décor should extend to the outdoors, so make your outdoor space an extension of your indoor space. Take time to enrich your fifth room! Sofas, rugs and cushions made from sustainable and natural material with chic style and unmatched comfort are going to dress your patios in the same way they already are dressing your living room. Whether you opt for a corner sofa, outdoor bench, patio table or swing chairs, you can get them all in various shapes and sizes that will be aesthetically beautiful, comfortable and compact. Rattan is making a strong come-back to our gardens as it’s excellent for its durability and elegance. Rattan is low maintenance and is inexpensive when compared to wood. However, teak wood is mainly obtained from ecological plantations, so you know you are getting top-quality. This sustainably sourced product will add elegance. Teak furniture is typically simply designed and combined with natural textiles will deliver a modern and zen feel. Corner-sofas, egg chairs and sun-loungers are a summer must; they offer a cosy place to relax & socialise. Check out Austen West for their selection of stylish egg chairs if you are looking for some summer inspiration. Finally, outdoor kitchens do not have to be large to be stylish. They can be versatile, and the key is to use different materials and shapes tailored to your space and needs. Why not try adding a fridge and bar area alongside the cooking space? Do not forget that the summer months do not last forever and a canopy or BBQ shelter will take your outdoor kitchen usage all the way through the year whatever the weather.
Céline x
Words & Photography by: Céline Bridier
S TON E S
P ROP E RT Y
59
60
N E W
London Road, Barley
High Street, Barkway, Royston
Cardinals Gate, Royston
Situated within the heart of a highly regarded village, this substantial four bedroom detached family home enjoys an elevated position overlooking the village memorial, The Fox and Hounds, Richmond’s and the High Street. The plot is believed to extend around 1/3 acre (subject to survey) has mature trees, extensive lawns, large driveway and detached double garage. The property is in need of some updating and is a blank canvas to those looking to put their own stamp on a new house.
A simply stunning detached period home that originally dates to around 1590, with some later additions extending the property to the rear. If you’re looking for a home with kerb appeal, then they don’t get any better than this! Full of character and period charm, the accommodation has been sympathetically updated in recent years to an exceptional standard with a perfect combination of a wealth of period features and contemporary finishing.
An opportunity to purchase a one bedroom first floor apartment situated on a small residential development of similar properties within Royston Town Centre. The property offers immediate vacant possession and has the benefit of allocated parking within the development and well-kept communal gardens.
Marshalls 01763 247 788
Ensum Brown 01763 750 000
William H Brown 01763 242 988
£950,000
HOM E
£850,000
£225,000
S TON E S
P ROP E RT Y
61
Tavern Close, Royston
High Street, Melbourn
Old North Road, Royston
Located in an exclusive development of just eight homes, this stunning four bedroom home is awaiting it’s first owner. Entering the property through the gorgeous glass frontage, you will find yourself in the airy entrance hall. To your left, there is a lounge with windows to the front and doors out to the south facing rear garden. To your right is the kitchen / dining room with dual aspect windows. To the rear of the ground floor there is a study, making this property perfect for those working from home.
A beautifully presented and highly appointed Five bedroom Victorian family home set in gorgeous established secluded grounds. The adaptable accommodation is arranged over two floors and comprises: entrance porch, inner hallway with the original door with matched stained glass, lounge with a large bay window and an open fireplace, family room with an open fireplace and ‘French’ doors to the terrace, wonderful treble aspect open plan kitchen /diner/ day room with a bespoke Chippendale kitchen and three Velux roof lights and Bi folding doors opening to the terrace.
A fantastic, Grade II listed, Victorian town house, superbly located within just a minutes’ walk of the train station and just a few minutes further to Royston town centre. Accommodation, that retains period features, is deceptively spacious and is in excess of 1600 sq ft and spread nicely over four storeys. What you also wouldn’t expect is that this home sits on a very generous plot, with a rear garden in excess of 100 ft that benefits from a high degree of privacy with a tree lined surrounding.
Thomas Morris 01763 771 012
Archer Peers 01763 232 323
Ensum Brown 01763 750 000
£765,000
£1,000,000
£625,000
62
ROYSTON T R A I L
S TON E S
PA S T
PARISH CHURCH OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST Royston is steeped in history, and not many know about the Royston Trail, which allows you to discover the history our town has to offer. With ‘daily walks’ becoming a part of everyone’s life over the last year or so, we thought it would be great to share this historical trail with our readers. Throughout our issues, we will be taking you through some of the stops on the trail. The first stop of the trail begins outside of the Parish Church of St John the Baptist. The church is currently undergoing restoration, which is due to finish in early 2022. The Parish Church was the only surviving part of an Augustinian priory that dates from the end of the twelfth century. The present nave was the chancel of the medieval church that became ruinous after King Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the monasteries. The high stone wall to the left of the path to the west gate of the churchyard contains a fragment of the original nave. The Parish Church has gone through many changes over the years, but has remained as a church throughout. We at Stones are looking forward to seeing our beautiful church restored and also looking forward to inspiring our readers to learn about the history on the trail.
01
63
64
WAT C H
&
L I S T E N
Normal People
Chef
12 EPISODES / BBC IPLAYER
2014 / 15 / 1H 54M
A recent winner at the Baftas, Normal People follows the lives of Marianne played by Bafta-nominated Daisy EdgarJones and Connell, Bafta-winning Paul Mescal. Growing up from different backgrounds in rural Northern Ireland. The story follows these two as they navigate life, love and the pain and happiness that comes with it. From leaving school through to graduating university their lives intertwine and the love between them grows and fades. It’s so pure, personal and raw you can’t help but feel the same as they do.
Written and Directed by Jon Favreau himself, this is a film full of food, music, love, and life. When Chef Carl Casper (Jon Favreau) takes on a food critic who insults him, his life takes an unexpected turn into rediscovering who he really is as a chef. He takes on a food truck and travels across America with his sous chef and best friend Martin (John Leguizamo) and joining them is Carl’s son Percy (Emjay Anthony). As they discover incredibly delicious food and the vibrant culture of some of America’s great cities, their relationship forms a new and meaningful bond. With stunning cinematography, great music and some of the best food cooking scenes you have ever seen. A must see!
S TON E S
P R E SE N T
65
Elixr Isaiah Dreads
When You Gonna… Dream Wife
HIP HOP / 2021 / 08 TRACKS / 22MINS
ALTERNATIVE / 2020 / 11 TRACKS / 40M
This rather short album, more like an EP from Bristol-born UK rapper Isaiah Dreads is amazing. With a real old-school hip-hop vibe mixed with a few more modern R&B vocals on the occasional track. The rapper delivers a knockout punch with his true-to-life lyrics and heavy vocals. Let’s hope he does more for the next one.
The latest album from this all-female trio is everything you want it to be. Alternative doesn’t quite explain it in full. More punk than alternative, with amazing riffs and sometimes obscure lyrics, these ladies know how to make a sound their own. With flashes of a young Gwen Stefani from her ‘No Doubt’ days they have a softer side that is just so pure and honest you can’t stop listening. With an album that flows from start to finish just let it play and go with it.
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T H E
T E A M
Josh Murphy Sophie Murphy Steve Eggs Ellie Laughlin
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At STONES, we are inspired to be part of the bigger picture. The last year has been tough on all businesses, so it’s important for us to support those that are local to us. So we are starting here, with our lifestyle magazine designed to draw readers to all the finer things in Royston. No matter what it is you have to offer Royston, whether it be big or small, you can be a part of Stones. Be part of the conversation, part of the journey. Get in touch with our STONES team today! @stonesmag
– – Brand new restaurant & bar in the heart of Royston town centre
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www.flintshack.co.uk • @flintshack • Roysia House, John Street, Royston, SG8 9JH
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Let’s stick together and create an environment we are all proud to call home.
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