STONES Vol.7

~ now open ~ now open ~ now open ~ now open revolution is now revolution is

Revolution

What does your brand say about your business?

p10. Karen & Bronwyn

We spoke with Karen Lavers, from the Buntingford Food bank, about the selfless service that her and her daughter Bronwyn offer to the community.

p12. Vivien Ofstedahl

Vivien shares the details of her exciting project with us; The Bridge - Mental health and wellbeing centre for students at KJAR. p08.

Editors Update

We continue to maintain our promise to promote ‘the best of local’ and beyond, through crafted articles, features and adverts.

p14. The 5-gift rule

As Christmas is fast approaching, we look for innovative ways to shop this year and explore the concept of the 5-gift rule and how it can help us focus our shopping and tighten our spend!

p17.

Gift Guide

Appreciating and supporting local independents, we've highlighted some gift ideas from shops in and around the local area.

p46. Winter Fashion

As we see the end of the long dry, summer, we look forward to refreshing our Autumn/ Winter wardrobes with some investment pieces, that will last the test time.

p50. Early Years

First school open days and applications are just around the corner. We have been working hard to get the lowdown on all of the fantastic first schools near us.

p60.

Feeling Lonely

Guest writer, Jenny Ellis talks through coping mechanisms for loneliness.

p68.

Watch & Listen

Our recommendations on what should be added to your next to watch and listen list.

p28.

Jolly Waggoner

We met the Landlord, Tom Smith who talked us through the pub's transformation in 2022 and tasted some of the amazing food on offer.

p34.

Bethnal & Bec

Luxury retreats tucked away in the gorgeous village of Cottered, in rural Hertfordshire. Bethnal & Bec offer the perfect hideaway.

p40. Winter Walks

The STONES Team explore some of the best walks that are on offer both locally and further afield, whether you’re looking for the next challenge, or in need of an outing.

p56. Hit the Slopes

I. PEOPLE II. PLACES III. PRESENT IV. PROPERTY

Skiing, snowboarding or après-ski – it’s whatever you want it to be. Laura Wood, an independent travel agent, talks us through the best places to hit the slopes.

p66. Properties

Ensum Brown provide us a with some of their top hot properties, available right now!

V. PAST

p64. Town Trail #13-14

Throughout our issues we will guide you through Royston’s historical trail.

Hello & welcome to Vol 7.

On behalf of STONES magazine, Sanders and Jay and all of our team, we send our deepest condolences to the Royal Family. We pay tribute and remember our Queen, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who has made a huge impact on our life as we know it today.

As the famous saying goes "you don't really die until people stop saying your name", we can be sure that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will live on for many, many years to come.

In volume 7 we are delighted to maintain our promise to promote ‘the best of local’ and beyond, where through crafted articles, features and adverts, we have tried to capture the season as we venture into Autumn and Winter.

Throughout the issue we discuss a wide range of topics from walking adventures, support networks, festive cheer, gift inspiration and much more. Over the past few months our team have been exploring and unearthing some amazing insights that they have been bursting to share with you, so we hope you enjoy.

Thinking of a topic you would like us to cover? Get in touch, hello@stonesmagazine.com

JoshFounderMurphy, & Editor

Thank you for your service Ma’am you have truly been inspiring.

FOODBANK BUNTINGFORD

Selfless Service

Karen Lavers is the founder of Buntingford Foodbank and she provides the most incredibly selfless service to struggling individuals and families in the local area.

Karen saw some coverage about foodbanks on TV, back in 2014, and it inspired her to find out if she could help. She discovered that the closest one was in Royston and so she volunteered her time to assist with weekly collections and deliveries. After a while of doing this, she noticed that lots of people were having to travel from Buntingford to Royston, to get to a foodbank. It wasn’t long before she hatched a plan to start a new foodbank in her home town of Buntingford and it started as a very small operation, running from her garden shed and serving around one person per week.

As Buntingford started to grow, and word was getting around about Karen’s food bank, the demand was rapidly rising and new premises were desperately needed to store everything. Fortunately, a local business and the Scout Hut stepped forward and provided temporary storage. Karen was given her own container and then, eventually, she received funding to pay for a unit which they operate from today.

With the effects of the pandemic and the cost of living rising, Karen and her team are now helping 20-30 families per week! Food donations are collected at Royston Tesco, Buntingford Co-op as well as donations from local churches, schools and community groups. All donations are gratefully received as more and more people are finding themselves unable to make ends meet.

Running the food bank takes a huge commitment of time and organisation. Thankfully, Karen has the help of Daisy who collects donations as well as her incredible daughter Bronwyn (14). Bronwyn helps to date check food, stacks the shelves, packs bags and organises deliveries. She is a superstar at Christmas, with organising hampers and gifts for children and is Karen’s main support.

Buntingford Foodbank covers Buntingford itself as well as all surrounding villages. If you are struggling to pay for food then please, don’t go hungry. You can be referred to the foodbank via Citizens Advice Bureau, schools and support workers, or you can self refer via the Facebook page. With everybody feeling the pinch this winter, donations and the work from people like Karen are more important than ever before.

Viv Ofstedahl & Cathy Holland, in front of a student designed mural at The Bridge.

A familiar face at King James Academy Royston and formerly Greneway School, Viv Ofstedahl, started as a PE teacher and developed into the role of Mental Health and Wellbeing lead across the whole school. Having officially retired back in July 2021, she was lured back with an exciting project that was very close to her heart and something that had been discussed, behind the scenes, for some time. With one of the buildings at the senior site no longer in use by the school, there was an opportunity for it to be transformed into a safe and welcoming base for students. This facility, led by the amazing Manager, and now known as The Bridge, supports students with social and emotional needs as well as neuro diverse students who can find many aspects of school challenging.

The Bridge was named as such because it ‘bridges the gap’ between home and school and provides the stepping stone for students with additional needs who may require encouragement and support to access the curriculum and school environment. It is already being used by students and the feedback has been extremely positive since its inception in September this year. The Bridge also plays host to a local charity; NESSie, which provides arts therapies and counselling for children and young people.

“It's wonderful to see it up and running and seeing the immediate impact it is having. This is a real community provision and I am confident that it will successfully support young people and their families, in Royston, for very many years to come.” - Viv Ofstedahl.

Viv tells us that launching The Bridge has been a team effort and they had a whole community supporting and helping with the project. As well as Viv, Cathy Holland and Afser Choudhury made up the lead team who were responsible for fundraising, refurbishing and co-ordinating of volunteers to get this off the ground. Many local individuals, charities and businesses contributed with materials, time and skills to get the centre transformed and make it into a provision that is now helping so many.

With Christmas just around the corner, you will either be one of those super organised gift buyers, who’s probably made a start or even nearly finished, OR you are a last minute panic buyer. Either way, do you often stop to wonder how much you are buying? The answer is probably yes, but what the real question is, do they need ALL of this?

Since the Covid-19 pandemic many of you may be reassessing aspects of your life, especially with the increase of cost of living, the threat of climate change and the constant daily reminder from all aspects about sustainability and our carbon footprint. Now is the time to start reassesing your spend for Birthdays and Christmas.

“It's been making me feel sick for a while now. Over spending on presents for birthdays and christmas'. Useless presents, plastic-tat. And as Christmas is fast approaching, the same feeling is creeping up.”

For those of you with kids, you’ll find some years they’ll have so many ideas on their Santa list and other years they don’t really know what they want and struggle to list them. Either way it’s difficult, as you are either stuck struggling for ideas and buying useless tat, or you’re feeling guilty by not getting everything or going overboard. All of which results in overwhelmed kids, frustrated parents, a huge amount of waste and a fat credit card bill at the end of it.

Something they want

This can be a “big item” - the thing your child really wants off their Christmas List or something they’ve mentioned they really want.

Something they need This can be something they need or can relate to their learning or new life stage. For example a new nursery bag, lunchbox or something for their bedroom.

Something to wear

Try finding a special item that’s unique and you’ve put thought into trying to find. Or look at something timeless and sustainable that will last for some time (check out our Winter Fashion article for some pointers).

Something to read

Choose a book that speaks to their interests and reading level. Perhaps they have just started reading so a phonics book related to a favourite character. Or perhaps they are of reading age, but you could find a novel you could read together. Or a cook book, classic literature or something outside the box.

Something to do

This is our favourite, an activity or memory they can do, or you can do together. Whether it's tickets to the cinema, a theme park or activity box or craft kit.

It’s so easy for children to get wrapped up in the gifts, and even though they may know the true meaning of Christmas, it’s still all about Santa for them - it’s all about those presents under the tree. If we can teach them to be thankful for the few presents that they receive, rather than simply expecting loads – this will hopefully make them better human beings. With fewer gifts, this also can allow them to focus, engage, learn and really enjoy without being over stimulated with too many toys everywhere.

For other family members, this will also help focus our spend and make sure they don’t have endless unwanted presents.

We’ll all be adopting this rule this year and hopefully we’ve inspired you too! If we have, let us know how you got on!

To help you, we’ve created a gift guide from local shops to inspire you...

Treat a loved one to an experience they will not forget, at PAUS. Breathe and bathe in steaming open air, wood-fired hot tubs with a glass of bubbly and beautiful views. Recharge in roasting Finnish saunas and then recline by a crackling fire.

Price £19.50

A range of elegant diffusers, replacing conventional reeds with unique, handmade sola wood flowers. Created with recycled products, vegan friendly and with a local bottle return scheme available. Lots of fragrances to choose from, including seasonal, limited edition options.

www.thelittlediffuserco.co.uk

Free collection and delivery service to all SG8 postcodes.

Wilt Floral Design Studio and Flower Farm based in Sandon are offering handmade sustainable Christmas wreaths made from locally sourced ingredients. Choose between an everlasting wreath crammed full of dried ingredients or a mixed wreath of fresh greenery and dried detail, both are available in full or half rounds. DIY wreath kits, workshops and dried gift bouquets are also available.

Everlasting dried wreaths from £50 Fresh wreaths from £45

Quote STONES for free local delivery.

07814412163

@wilt_studio hello@wiltstudio.co.uk www.wiltstudio.co.uk/shop

Yellow portable folding BBQ (£49.99)

The limited edition portable folding BBQ has been developed in support of the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA). The BBKA is a UK registered charity with a mission to educate, train and support beekeepers in order to promote the importance of bees in the environment, particularly focusing on the endangered honeybee.

Every purchase includes a FREE pack of wildflower seeds for you to scatter to help build a better home for the bees too!

Cocktail Multi-tool (£17.99)

Entertain your guests and delve into the world of mixology with the Cocktail Multi-Tool. The handy foldaway device contains everything you need, with 7 tools included. Look the part too, thanks to the stainless steel and rustic wooden design.

Beautiful luxury handmade aprons, also offering bespoke designs and personalised prints.

Adult and children sizes available. Prices start from £16.99

*Use discount code STONES22 for a 10% discount

www.mrpinny.com

With reduced alcohol and lower calories, Pinkster Spritz is the perfectly light, refreshing drink for catching up with friends this festive season.

Made with tipsy, locally grown raspberries & raspberries left over from producing Pinkster gin, it’s both naturally delicious and sustainably sound.

We recommend serving this scrummy spritz base with Fever-Tree’s soda water, a fresh lime and heaps of ice.

There’s two fab flavours: Elderflower and Raspberry, crafted with wild elderflower foraged from East Anglian hedgerows; Hibiscus and Raspberry, infused with exotic hibiscus flowers. We recommend serving the Elderflower & Raspberry Spritz base with FeverTree Mexican Lime Soda and the Raspberry & Hibiscus Spritz base with Fever-Tree Italian Blood Orange Soda.

Best of all, a regular 25ml Pinkster Spritz measure has no more than 40 calories, with just 4.8% vol and 0.6 units once mixed with soda.Or put another way, that’s a third less calories than your average glass of wine.

Available on our website for £14 plus delivery. Free delivery on all orders over £40.

‘Tinsel Town’ Christmas earrings collection (part of a larger range).

Colourful, laser cut and hand finished acrylic and recycled acrylic charms - all interchangeable on high quality 14k gold filled hoops. discover the full range of jewellery and homewares at www.bustleandpops.co.uk

@bustleandpops

Prices start from £19.50

SPINCARE, 5-in-1 Record Cleaning Kit. Set includes; Antistatic Record Cleaning Solution, Velvet Cleaning Pad, Drying Rack and Carbon Fibre Stylus Brush - £20

A large range of new and used vinyl and merchandise available in our new Royston store.

7 Melbourn Street Royston, SG8 7BJ

Scents for your home, made with the highest quality materials.

Candle - £12 Burner - £6 Diffuser - £16

Tealights, wax melts, gift sets and personalised products also available.

ig: @scentsofbarley

fb: Scents of Barley

Burwash Larder is a real find, regularly recommended as one of the region’s best delicatessens. www.burwashlarder.com

Our aim at Cuckoo is simple – to help you create a fresh and unique look by cherry-picking a fabulous mix of clothing and accessories in an environment which is friendly and relaxed. www.cuckooclothing.co.uk

Our shop has hardware, Shaker rails and shelves (made at our workshop), furniture, and home accessories. Also, help is on hand to take the stress out of choosing colour for your home.  Our paint range is extensive and colour advice is available with large painted colour samples and colour cards to take away. For larger colour queries, we also offer an in home colour consulting service.  www.providenceuk.com

Needlecraft heaven, Backstitch is a bright and inspiring fabric, yarn and haberdashery store where sewing machines hum and stitchers chitter chatter. The Burwash shop has now become a honeypot for local crafters seeking stylish, modern dressmaking and quilt fabric, scrumptious yarn and quality haberdashery. www.backstitch.co.uk

In our open plan shop and work area you can see us creating bouquets and arrangements and looking after our stock – and we’ll probably be enthusing about our current favourite flower variety or interesting house plant! Talking of houseplants – we love them! We’re always keeping our eye open for unusual new varieties. www.flowerscambridge.co.uk

The Jolly Waggoner is a quintessential country pub, nestled in the village of Ardeley, near Buntingford. Led to by winding lanes, the feeling of being enveloped by the peacefulness of the countryside begins long before your arrival. On first glance of the pub, you will notice a welcoming front garden with courtesy blankets for guests and a fire pit so that customers can still make the most of the space, even with the incoming autumnal weather.

On parking at the rear, you will find an additional garden area that may be better suited to guests with dogs and / or children as it is more enclosed from the quiet road which runs alongside the pub. Both gardens were very attractive and well kept and looked like the perfect spot to while away an afternoon or evening.

The Jolly Waggoner is situated directly opposite Church Farm. For those who haven’t heard of it, Church Farm is a working farm, open to the public for day visits and camping. They also run a farm shop which supplies 90% of the produce that the chefs at the pub use for their delicious kitchen creations.

As we entered the bar area, we were warmly welcomed by both Landlord; Tom Smith and a roaring open fireplace. The inside of the pub felt smart and homely, with some thoughtful extra touches like a collection of board games on display, ‘help yourself’ dog treats and comfortable armchairs next to the fire. On looking around and speaking with Tom, you really do get a sense that the customer’s experience is of paramount importance and that nothing is too much trouble. We were led through the beams, to the other end of the pub where there was a lovely table waiting for us, just up a step and slightly separate to the other tables, which would be the perfect place for an intimate gathering or special occasion. We were given menus and Tom excitedly shared the special with us and talked us through some of his and regular customers’ favourite dishes. The menu was a mixture of dishes, from traditional pub meals, like fish and chips and ciabattas to some more adventurous options like the Korean fried chicken nuggets with kimchi butter, aioli and coriander - which were a standout hit with all of the STONES team.

Above: Salt & pepper squid with a sweet chilli dipping sauce

Right: Brimming with character, Open fireplaces and beams throughout

Previous page: Idyllic setting: fire pit and blankets for guests to enjoy in the chillier weather

Above: The best seats in the house

Left:

Above Right: Plentiful portions of freshly prepared food.

Landlord; Tom Smith

Tom mentioned that his chef had spent some of his career in a specialist burger restaurant and so the burgers on the menu are top notch. We didn’t need much persuasion so made sure there were a couple included on our order. We were not at all disappointed - they were incredible! The spicy and succulent chicken burger was not for the faint hearted and was packed full of flavour. The portion sizes are very generous and sadly, none of us left any room for dessert. That just gives us an excuse for another visit though, and we are looking forward to it already! The pub was taken over by the current owners, at the end of 2021, and the tasteful refurbishment was carried out in January 2022. It has been transformed from the previously tired and outdated

state it was in and has been given a fresh and traditional look, restoring it’s former glory.

As we are all too aware, the hospitality industry has received many blows over the last couple of years, but we believe that this gem of a place and the ‘he who dares’ attitude of the team are a recipe for success. The Jolly Waggoner is very well supported by the people in the local community, who enjoy the welcoming service, great food and varied events and menus. Tom explained that there is a street food van offering every Tuesday and that they have a guest chef coming for a kitchen takeover with a tasting menu, this Autumn.

We highly recommend a visit to The Jolly Waggoner; soak up the ambience, enjoy being looked after by Tom and his team and feed your soul with a hearty meal.

Luxury Retreats

There are times when the solution to all of your problems is to disconnect and hide away for a breather, and we have found the perfect place to do just that. Bethnal & Bec is tucked away in the gorgeous village of Cottered, in rural Hertfordshire.

Husband and wife, Chris & Vicky Saynor have created a luxury bolthole for adults (and their four legged friends!) from what once was a block of dilapidated stables next to their home. Far from that now, they have three award winning, self contained retreats which are kitted out with everything you could possibly want and more. A cinema projector, outdoor whirlpool baths, vinyl record players and fire pits are just some of the special touches that Bethnal & Bec boasts.

Sustainability is at the core of everything Chris & Vicky are doing with Bethnal & Bec, and they are well on their way to becoming a NetZero business. The Foaling Box is the most recent of the three retreats to open and they managed to furnish it with 90% recycled pieces or furniture destined for landfill!

If you’re looking for a luxury stay, and you absolutely do deserve it, then it really is a no-brainer. The hardest decision to make is which one of the unique and beautiful retreats to book.

To celebrate their 5th birthday, Bethnal & Bec are offering a 5% discount to STONES readers. Use code STONES5 when booking to redeem.

Photography by: Binky Nixon

Winter Walks

Are you looking to become more active, healthier, lose weight, or just destress your mind from the utter chaos of the world? Stepping outside for a winter walk is a great way to spend your spare time during the darker, colder months, where you can dust yourself down and step back inside feeling refreshed and deserving of the warm mug in front of the fire.

You may choose to go alone to gather your thoughts, catch up with friends, or bond with your family. Either way breaking away from your regular routine can relax the mind, ease the soul and allow you to reflect on life as you know it. You can even hear any worries being crunched under your wellies as you step on the frosty morning grass and break through the morning mist.

More than ever before, nature has been our source of comfort during recent difficult times. For many this has become a permanent leisure activity in the weekly calendar, however for some you may have slipped back into your shell and need some encouragement to get out there and start exploring once again. For that very reason, we have pulled together some walks to help inspire you to explore our stunning local countryside, taking you across parks, trails, paths, and footbridges. For those feeling a little more adventurous we’ve added in some beaches and mountains if you’re looking for the next challenge, or in need of an outing.

Photography by: Gareth Jones Photography

Right, let’s go. Wrap up warm, throw on some wellies and go for an invigorating walk. Make sure you start off at a level that suits you, remember something is better than nothing and you can build on distance, frequency and add in different terrain to increase the challenge.

Walking Checklist

1. Take a bottle of water or plan a stop along the way to rehydrate

2. High Energy snacks, flapjack, a piece of fruit and sandwiches for longer walks

3. Grab the right all-weather gear and stay warm

4. Wear sensible footwear for the terrain. Walking boots provide the best support

5. Mobile phone (Fully charged)

6. First aid if you are going further

Gentle Stroll

Going for a nice leisurely stroll is an excellent way for you to get your body moving, raise your heart rate and keep you active. You won’t be breaking any records, or hiking for miles, but getting out there in the fresh air can be exhilarating. You may be content with a stroll round the neighbourhood or a brisk walk into the town, wander round the park. It's just important to get out and make a start.

You can always stop off at STONES HQ Kooky Nohmad and grab a quick hot drink and a nibble from the hatch to keep you going. Sometimes setting your sights at a cafe or pub en-route or half way can keep you motivated and provide you with a destination and purpose for the walk.

Heart Raiser

Stride over the rolling hills of Therfield Heath, where you can twist through the treeline or walk on the paths within the long grass where you can hear the birds sing. This stunning open land is situated on one of the few hills in this notoriously flat area. Therfield Heath is a lovely place to get fresh air and get a feeling of outdoors.

Keep your eyes peeled for flying golf balls! Whilst walkers have the right of way, it is always good to be respectful of the players and not get yourself caught in the crossfire.

Walking routes aren’t perhaps as well marked as you might like in this area, but it is clearer where to go once you get into the small woodland space away from the road, and some trails are well trodden. Otherwise, stay off the fairways, I guess.

Once you have finished you can meander down to the Heath Cafe for some refreshments or even walk a bit further into town which is a short walk away.

Windsweeper

Introducing Wells-Next-the-Sea. For those of you who have been before, just hearing those words can transform you to the walker's paradise, where you will be greeted by fresh sea air and stunning views.

Nestled between Holkham beach and the unique bird sanctuary of Blakeney Point, Wells has an array of stunning views to take in along the way, where you can choose to amble along or push on to cover some serious ground. This pretty Georgian town boasts a quaint harbour, historic docks, rugged golden sand dunes and thick pine woodlands to set back from the beach, protecting the town from the coastal winds. Once you have made it back you will be able to meander through the streets of the town, where it has a good mix of traditional and contemporary shops, where you can find several options for well earned fish and chips.

Photography by: Claire Sargent

Nature Trail

Fowlmere nature Reserve is a protection birds nature reserve between Fowlmere and Melbourn in Cambridgeshire, where it plays host to an abundance of visiting wildlife and proves very popular with photographers. Previously known for its water-cress beds, the reserves reedbeds and pools are fed by natural chalk water, meaning that they are particularly clean and clear making it oasis for visiting wildlife.

For families visiting you will have to approach the hides with caution where bird enthusiasts

are patiently waiting to catch a glimpse of seasonal visits from the likes of the Kingfisher, but grab a nature checklists and your kids will have a blast looking for all.

Autumn and winter are good times to see flocks of finches, buntings, thrushes and starlings roosting or feeding in the scrub, and catch a glimpse of a kingfisher and occasionally bittern or bearded tit. Brown trout breed in the chalk stream (River Shep). Large flocks of winter thrushes forage on the berry bushes in some years.

Beat the Barge

With Hertfordshire being completely land locked, to enjoy a local walk by the water's edge, then try the popular riverside walk from Cambridge to the nearby village of Grantchester. It takes you along the River Cam with lovely views of Grantchester Meadows, University colleges and pastoral scenes with cows and sheep grazing next to the meandering river, as well as punts and little boats along the way.

In Granchester, there a few resting points to choose from, including a selection of pubs such as Rupert Brooke and the Red Lion and if you are looking for an afternoon tea, the Orchard Tea Room. After refreshments you can either catch a bus back to Cambridge or follow the same route back on foot.

If you are seeking a longer distance riverside trail, you could take the Fen Rivers Way long trail which takes you along the Cam in the other direction, from Cambridge to King's Lynn in Norfolk. This runs alongside the River Cam and the River Great Ouse, passing a series of riverside towns and villages including Ely, Littleport and Downham Market.

Family Stroll

A family walk could be just what’s required to lift the household mood and get some much-needed exercise, however you may need a distraction or find a motivation to keep tiny feet moving. Milton Country Park has all this and more. Situated just North of Cambridge, the park has attractive pathways, woodland, lakes, playgrounds and a Café to raise energy levels post or pre walk.

Created from old gravel pits, the park is suitable for everyone; welcoming bicycles, pushchairs, wheelchairs and dogs which can be walked off-lead in designated areas.

Seasonal colours are in abundance, particularly at Remembrance Meadow where the Canadian Maple and the English and American oak give a stunning autumnal display.

You’ll never be short of new landscapes to explore in around and Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire. Just pick your level, plan your route and make sure you’ve ticked your checklist!

If you have any other walks you’d recommend, let us know, we’d love to hear about them.

Refreshed Nostalgia

After what has been an unbelievably (and quite worrying) warm and dry summer, many of us are starting to admit that, we're actually very ready for autumn clothes, having exhausted our summer wardrobes. Autumn/Winter 2022 brings a refreshed nostalgic take on past trends, as we navigate out of our optimistic post-pandemic phase, with continued threats and life changing realities, we look to history as a source of comfort.

History is resilient and at the same time a source of beauty, both necessary for survival in troubled times.

- Lidewij Edelkoort, Trend Union

Looking at history we can be inspired by art heores and heroines from our past, and learn from their willingness to change and their creative spirit. Fashion will be nomadic, fabrics will be reconsidered, colours will feel fresher and style will be independant.

Look at alternative designers and streetwise combinations. Amalgamate genders, ages and races in styling and experiment with indigenous expression and last and foremost, invest in key pieces that will last the time and transition over different seasons and trends.

Ozzie and Clémentine Folk Shirt

Winter Walks

If you haven’t already, invest in a jacket this autumn, one that can transition from balmy Autumn days, to harsh biting cold Winter days. Something comfortable and timeless, that can give you longevity.

You may also find yourself wearing this inside and out!

Esse - Long Puffer Coat with Removable Sleeves - £190

Mia Caro - Scarf

Other colourways available - £14

Kisses - Grey Jumper Dress and Necklace.

Christmas Parties

From Mini to the Maxi, we have the 60’s Mini Skirt making a comeback this A/W. However, if flashing hemlines fill you with dread, 70’s Winter Maxi’s are also back.

We love this goregous black and white tiger print dress, by G&M available from Ozzie & Clémentine, the perfect transitional dress for the upcoming festive season or dressed down for work. We love how they’ve styled it with a black belt to accentuate the waist, teamed with 60’s inspired knee high boots.

If you’re wanting something with a bit more sparkle, then Ozzie and Clémentine also have some lurex numbers:

New Year Wardobe

With the start of the new year on the horizon, we look to stylish outfits that can be dressed up for work or dressed down for the school run. We’ve looked at some of the casual midi dresses by local brand, Pentlebay. Style with white pumps or black ankle boots, for that easy throw-on look.

Pentlebay -

Midi Dress in Navy White Splodge - £35

Tie-Sleeve Midi Dress in Pink Animal - £35

Bella Vita - White Trainers - £25

St Mary’s Primary School

Roman Way Academy

Meldreth Primary School

Melbourn Primary School

Icknield Walk First School

Tannery Drift First School

Studlands Rise First School

TherField First School

Barley + Barkway Church of England First Schools

Sandon JMI Primary School Reed First School

Layston First School

Anstey First School

Whether you're new to the area, your child is approaching school age or you need a change; we know that seeking the right school can be daunting. With open evenings coming up and applications to be submitted, we have been working hard to get the lowdown on all of the fantastic first schools near us. Finding the perfect fit for your individual child is vital to give them the best start, so we want to help with some insightful reviews from those in the know.

Although different aspects of schools are important for different children and parents, the great news is that there really isn't a bad choice and we are very privileged to live in an area which is positively rich in fantastic schools.

We have invited a parent from each school to write a blog on it and share why they chose it for their child/ren. These candid views are available to read on our website and we hope you find them useful in navigating your way through this important milestone! Make sure you have a look around; there’s nothing more intuitive than your own gut instinct for what is right for your child. Do you like the feel of it? What’s the environment like? Could you see your child there?

However, there are other things to consider, such as catchment area, so it’s best to find out what is your catchment school, so that you can manage expectations should you look at other schools outside of this.

Bringing

the

Hit slopes

The last couple of years have taught us just how important travel is for the soul. We all need a break from the everyday. The delight in being somewhere new, admiring spectacular scenery, sampling new food and exploring different terrain on your skis shouldn’t be underestimated.

It’s fresh snowfall, 'pinch me' views and feeling on top of the world. Bar time, spa time and snowy adventure time. Skiing, snowboarding or sitting back and socialising – it’s whatever you want it to be.

When to go.

The main ski season goes from December to April, and each month has its highlights – from festive fun and fireworks at Christmas and New Year, to family events for half term and spring sunshine around Easter.

State side

World-class skiing, wild west towns and some of the quietest slopes around – there are lots of reasons to ski the USA. Resorts in Colorado sit at high altitude, so there’s lots of light powder. And with over 300 days of sunshine, you’ll be going home with a great goggle tan. The resorts also have real American character, from swing-door saloons against breathtaking backdrops to high-end hotels and finger-licking cuisine.

The USA is home to thousands of acres of quiet slopes and big, fast chairlifts and gondolas. The mountains are packed with piste for all abilities, from gentle greens to back bowls and double-diamond black runs.

Canada is a bucket-list destination for skiers and boarders alike, famed for its knee-deep powder, immaculately groomed slopes and wide, treelined runs. Some resorts are based in national parks, surrounded by spectacular scenery and wildlife, while all are known for their highquality hotels and warm hospitality.

Canadian ski resorts are worldclass thanks to their long seasons, unbeatable snow, quiet slopes and variety of terrain. The deep-powder runs in Whistler are great for experts, while thrill-seekers will love the heliskiing in Banff.

Canadian ski resorts are on both east and west coasts, with the latter home to big names like Banff, Lake Louise and Whistler.

Canada Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a great place to learn how to ski, with excellent ski schools and loads of tree-lined beginner and intermediate slopes. It’s brilliant value so your spending money will go a lot further here. And with cheap drinks and buzzing bars, the entertaining après scene is another draw, making skiing in Bulgaria a popular choice for younger groups.

Bulgaria’s ski resorts are best suited to first timers, beginners and intermediate skiers. Borovets and Bansko are Bulgaria’s largest ski areas but with only 5km and 3km of black runs, advanced skiing is pretty limited.

Take the kids to Bankso or Pamporovo – there’s a range of family-friendly hotels, with easy transfers and activities off the slopes.

Ski holidays in Italy are all about relaxed and easy-going Italian hospitality, delicious gourmet food for less and quiet slopes with great snowmaking technology. There’s a wide variety of scenic skiing and homely accommodation across over twenty resorts. So if you’re after an authentic European ski holiday with top-notch food, friendly locals and plenty of snap-worthy scenery, Italy's just the ticket.

Skiing in Italy is about short lift queues, wellgroomed pistes with great snowmaking and diverse ski areas where you can cover some serious miles. Or take it easy with scenic lunch stops in true laid-back, Italian style.

italy France

France is a firm favourite for ski holidays, loved for its excellent food and diverse, easy-to-reach resorts, from traditional to purpose-built, luxury to budget-friendly. It was the first country to link its resorts with lifts and is still home to most of the best-known ski areas, many of them at high altitude.

France’s big ski areas set it apart. They bring plenty of skiing for a week and lots of variety for different abilities. Its resorts are higher than its alpine neighbours and dotted with glaciers, so conditions are usually reliable.

I’m an independent travel agent, I work with leading tour operators and can help plan your perfect holiday.

01223 53 54 93

laura.wood@premier-travel.co.uk

Feeling lonely

It’s hard to imagine how anyone could be lonely with over 7.75 billion people in this world. Yet 1 in 20 adults over the age of 16 in the UK report feeling lonely often and always. Many of us may experience temporary loneliness because of a loved one passing away, the end of an important relationship or marriage, or even being new to an education setting, job, or community. In these situations, it may feel hard to bear, but they are usually short in duration, and we recover pretty quickly. However, the impact of long-term loneliness can have huge impact on mental and physical wellbeing, not just individually but societally too. Loneliness is a catch 22. It makes it harder to connect, makes us anxious about social situations making it harder to alleviate negative thoughts and feel joy. The levels of loneliness have risen quickly because of the pandemic, and many struggle to reconnect with society and loved ones as a result of their increased loneliness, but it doesn’t have to stay that way.

“The most terrible poverty is loneliness, and the feeling of being unloved.” – Mother Teresa

As human beings, meaningful human connection to others is part of our genetic makeup. It’s more than just a want, it’s as basic need, and if Maslow is to be believed, the third most important thing for us to function happily and healthily, is love and belonging. Being involved in meaningful relationships and community is so important to us that it physically hurts us when we are lonely. It has the same neural correlates as physical pain. Being disconnected from society, isolated from community, and detached from close interpersonal relationships genuinely hurts us. So, what can we do to help ourselves and others who might be feeling lonely, and how do we appreciate the difference between being alone and feeling lonely? Whilst we are social creatures, we also require some respite from social interaction to allow for energy levels to be replenished, but also for self-discovery.

When you notice feelings of loneliness creeping in, here are a few things you can do to help you manage it and stop it from becoming chronic.

Avoid the sound of silence.

Emptiness within a space can enhance the feelings of loneliness. So, turn the radio on, put on your favourite mood bosting music. Open a window and listen to the passers-by or the birds. Put on your favourite show, even if you’re not really watching it. Filling your surroundings with sound makes loneliness feel less overwhelming. Music can enhance your mood, whilst a podcast or audio book provides escape and distraction.

Whilst interactions may look different these days, it’s all about the quality, not the quantity. We’ve all heard the Robin Williams quote “I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up all alone. It’s not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people that make you feel all alone.” You can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely, so make the most of those fulfilling and nourishing interactions. It might be over the telephone as opposed to in person, or a fleeting moment in the supermarket, but never underestimate the power of a meaningful interaction for you or another, no matter how brief. Share your emotions, ask questions, and really listen to the answers. Healing happens when we are heard.

Getting outside has been proven to ease emotional distress and help us feel connected to something bigger than ourselves, subconsciously providing a feeling of belonging. Time outside of your usual four walls regardless of the environment is always good for stimulating the senses and creating a distraction from feelings of loneliness. Take a turn around your local neighbourhood, greeting those you meet along your way. A simple smile or good afternoon can lift both you and others. Visit a local park or wildlife spot, perhaps travel further if you can to somewhere new. Loneliness affects not just your sleep but your daytime functioning too. Fresh air and physical activity can help to address some of the impacts of loneliness. Get inspired by our Winter Walks article on page 41.

The great outdoors. Express yourself.

Talking about your feelings can help make it easier to get emotional support at the point of need, whilst it can feel risky, being honest about how you’re feeling with someone you trust drives connection and a sense of belonging, reducing the feelings of loneliness. If left unchecked, unspoken emotions can build and intensify if they go unacknowledged. Sharing your feelings with a loved one encourages them to reciprocate. Reducing the stigma of talking about emotions, but also enables discussion around coping strategies. Saying them out loud, even to yourself can reduce their power to cause suffering. If sharing them with another feels too much, try writing them down first. It’s still a way of physically releasing your emotions.

Draw out your creative side

If spoken words are not your forte, artistic expression be it art, music or writing can help with feelings of loneliness and isolation. Being creative helps you to express emotions without the need for words, which can have a positive effect if you’re not too keen on sharing with another just yet. There is also a deep sense of fulfilment and satisfaction that can be gained from being creative and making something. A direct challenge to the feeling of sadness and loneliness. Whilst being creative isn’t a cure all, it certainly offers the opportunity to harness your feelings and repurpose them in a more helpful way.

Creature comforts Helpful hobbies

Consider taking on a pet. Whilst this isn’t suitable for everyone, perhaps you could spend time with friends or relatives with pets, maybe even borrow them. It’s well known that pet ownership has a positive impact on physical and mental wellbeing, so if you have the time and space in your life for a pet it might be worth a thought. Pets can also help get you out and about and meet people too. Whilst they cannot talk (unless you have a vocal bird), pets provide company and companionship – not to mention some often hilarious antics providing much needed stress relief. In providing care for another being we often provide better care for ourselves too. Never underestimate the power of purpose. The word pet often evokes thoughts of cats and dogs, but many find just as much joy in other creatures, great or small. Be sure to do your research, and perhaps consider a rescue.

Do something you love. Feeling lonely can make it difficult to think about anything else, including things you usually enjoy. So, whatever your thing is, don’t forget it. Dedicate time to it, remove other distractions and just do that one thing. Be it yoga, video games, baking, it doesn’t matter. What matters is the intention and deliberate focus on that activity. Relaxing activities and hobbies form part of our self-care when done mindfully and with full presence. Self-care is important for our wellbeing, take time for you and your hobby, maybe even take up a new hobby.

Still feeling unsure – When loneliness descends there’s lots we can do to alleviate those feelings. However, that’s not always easy. If your loneliness isn’t improving, and you’re feeling low more often than not, it might be helpful to talk to a qualified therapist. With the help of a therapist, you can explore in depth, at your own pace what might be going on, in complete confidence and without fear of judgement. You’ll find your own prevention strategies and discover ways of coping and managing distress at your own pace

Article written by: Jenny Ellis – Psychotherapist. Dip. Couns. MBACP

Arriving back at the top of the Royston’s picturesque high street on the corner are two of its most iconic pubs. Firstly the grand white building once home to ‘The Chequers’, an ancient inn, thought to be named for the Royal House of Stuart black and white check on the Priory Coat of Arms.

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Continuing down a few paces and you arrive at The Bull Inn which has claim to being the oldest inn in the town. Dating all the way back to the 15th century. At the main entrance you will notice the brickwork, where it is possible to see the shape of the archway into the inn yard where stage coaches would have changed horses. At one point there was stabling for over 100 horses here, before they would resume their journeys.

In one of the cottages opposite the entrance, just above eye level you will find a small square cupboard set in the wall. This was the place where the keys to the main gates were kept at night so that the guard on an incoming coach could reach over to retrieve them before jumping off the horse to open the gates.

Let's Chat.

01763 75 00 70 | www.ensumbrown.com | Kooky Nohmad, 42 High Street, Royston, SG8 9AG

Pudding Lane, Barley

Fowlmere Road, Heydon

Guide price - £1,100,000 £950,000

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this executive detached family home in the highly soughtafter village of Barley. This stunning property was constructed in 2018 on a quiet lane near the centre of the village and boasts exceptional build quality, accommodation approaching 3000sq ft, 2 generous reception rooms and study, a beautiful open-plan kitchen/dining/family room, 4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a garage, driveway parking, and a lovely garden surrounded by mature trees.

Guide price - £700,000

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this extended detached bungalow in the highly soughtafter market town of Royston. This property boasts extensive accommodation approaching 1600sq ft in a non-estate location close to the town centre, 4 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms, an enclosed and private rear garden, and a garage with driveway parking.

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this beautiful late 19th Century family home in the highly sought-after village of Heydon. This stunning property enjoys spacious and flexible accommodation , a generous plot of approximately a 5th of an acre, 5 bedrooms - one of which is being used as an Airbnb, 3 bathrooms, a beautiful frontage with driveway parking, a generous tiered garden, and countryside surroundings with glorious, farreaching views towards Cambridge and Ely.

Garden Walk, Royston

£250,00

£675,000

£475,000

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this beautiful period cottage in the highly popular village of Bassingbourn. This sympathetically-presented property enjoys a non-estate location, no upward chain, 2 reception rooms, a re-fitted kitchen and bathroom, 2 double bedrooms, a courtyard garden, and an enclosed garden lease option.

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale ‘Braeburn House’, a superbly presented detached home in the highly popular village of Melbourn. This extended and updated property enjoys a non-estate location, an open-plan kitchen/dining room, a generous utility room, 3 reception rooms, 5 well-proportioned bedrooms with the 5th a potential study, 2 bathrooms, an enclosed south facing garden, and a generous frontage with driveway parking for several vehicles.

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this beautiful period cottage in the highly sought-after village of Litlington. This delightful home is to be sold with no upward chain and enjoys a nonestate location, flexible accommodation, period features, a delightful private garden, and 4 bedrooms, including a stunning master bedroom.

Royston Road, Litlington Orchard Road, Melbourn

Old North Road, Bassingbourn

Thor: Love and Thunder Black Bird

This TV series special tells the true story of Jimmy Keene, played by the amazing Taron Egerton (Rocketman & Kingsman). After being sentenced to a 10 year stretch in a minimum-security prison, Jimmy is approached by the FBI for help. They want him to gain the trust of Larry Hall, played incredibly by Paul Walter Hauser, and to get him to confess and locate the bodies of another 18 murders they believe him to have committed. The catch, Larry is serving his sentence in a maximum- security prison for the criminally insane. Not one to be told he can’t do something, and with the opportunity of a clean slate and no more prison time, he accepts the challenge. Once inside he has to play the part and make sure he keeps himself safe at the same time as befriending Larry.

In the latest instalment of the Marvel franchise, Thor is back for some more wild adventures. Love and Thunder has everything you need; comedy, romance and so much action! With a whole host of returning characters and some great new ones, including Russell Crowe as Zeus and Christian Bale as Gorr, The God Butcher. While Thor himself is on a personal journey to find his inner peace, he enlists the help of his friends Korg and King Valkyrie. His ex-girlfriend, Jane (Natalie Portman), who wields the power of Mjolnir (Thor’s hammer) to become ‘The Mighty Thor’ also joins them in battle to once again save the world and the universe from distraction. With an epic soundtrack to boot, this film with have you gripped from start to finish.

Church of Scars Bishop Briggs

ALTERNATIVE / 2018 / 10 TRACKS / 34MINS

Entering Heaven Alive Jack White

ALTERNATIVE / 2022 / 11 TRACKS / 40MINS

British-American singer and songwriter Bishop Briggs delivers a power debut album. With her unique soulful voice used with beautiful power mixed with some harsh grungy bass. The tracks really hit hard, tracks such as ‘River’ really show off her vocal range whilst being wildly harmonic and harrowing at the same time. Track by track she continues to take you on a journey through her musical upbringing, with hints of R&B and soul, through to rock & roll and electronic. Ending this amazing album with a standout song ‘Hi-Lo (Hollow)’ where her incredible voice and deep bass ring true and emotional from start to finish.

Entering Heaven Alive is the fifth studio album from Jack White the founding member of The White Stripes, The Dead Weather and the Raconteurs. True to his do-it-yourself ethics the record was recorded at his Third Man studio during 2021, mastered at Third Man mastering & released on Third Man records. White wrote and recorded Entering Heaven Alive in tandem with Fear of the Dawn and has positioned them as yin-and-yang companion pieces. Your choice of favourite between them will probably come down to whether you prefer Jack White as the earnest balladeer (in the case of our recommendation) or as the full -on slightly unhinged rocker.

Josh Murphy

Sophie Murphy

Steve Eggs

Jenna Johnson

Aniello Fruncillo

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At STONES, we are inspired to be part of the bigger picture. The way we all do business has shifted over the last couple of years and it’s more important than ever for us to support each other. We are starting here, with our lifestyle magazine; designed to draw readers to all of the finer things in our area. No matter what it is you have to offer the community, whether it be big or small, you could be a part of STONES. Be a part of the conversation, part of the journey. Get in touch with our STONES team today to find out more.

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