Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // March 2024

Spring is in the air

Mother’s Day and Easter gift suggestions

Meet a lady who has made teddies and soft toys for over 60 years

Make a splash with wild swimming

Many local businesses are celebrating anniversaries

Yoga can be for seniors too; and so it should be

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor and Publisher Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com

Deputy editor Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com

Art editor Matt Tarrant

Contributors

Will Hetherington, Jeremy Smithson-Beswick,

Advertisement Sales Director Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com

Production assistant Gary Curtis

Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com

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ISSN 2059-8513

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‘This seems to have been a month of anniversaries and celebrations for local businesses, heralding their longevity as well as new ones coming to the area; long may both continue.’

WE’VE MADE IT!

The dark, long nights of winter are almost behind us and now spring really does feel like it’s around the corner, particularly as Mother’s Day and Easter are a matter of days away. With both those dates in mind we’ve been scouring the area looking for things to do and gifts to buy – and there are so many. I really enjoyed my afternoon tea at Stapleford Park, particularly as I had both my daughters with me – a perfect way to spend an afternoon, great company, lovely food and a perfect Mother’s Day treat.

Someone else whose company I also really enjoyed was teddy bear maker Pam Howells. She has been making soft toys and collectable bears for over 60 years and has had a fabulous career from doing so. Meeting her and seeing all her beautiful toys was quite an honour, and listening to her tales was fascinating.

This seems to have been a month of anniversaries and celebrations for local businesses, as you will see from our news pages, and mention must also go to Laxton Junior School which celebrates 50 years this year. It is great to see so many businesses celebrating their longevity as well as new ones coming to the area; long may both continue.

With spring on our doorstep thoughts turn to gardening so we’ve been busy sourcing products from some local garden centres to give you inspiration.

Now that the days are longer it gives us more time to get out and about and at long last I have been able to sit in the garden with my cup of tea feeling the slight warmth of the sun to help lift the spirits and the vitamin D; happy days!

Have a great month.

Mary - Editor

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ACTIVE LIFE

17 GARDENING

We try a heated gilet from SNUGEL

19 GARDENING GOODIES

We bring a selection to inspire you 20 TRAVEL

The best of Zurich

22 GIFTS AND DAYS OUT

Mother’s Day and Easter are both this month; view our recommendations for gifts and excursions

34 A WORLD OF TEDDY BEARS

Meet Pam Howells who has been designing teddy bears for over 60 years

36 MAKE A SPLASH WITH WILD SWIMMING

The enefits of ild s imming and how to get started

42 WILL’S WALKS

This month Will enjoys a straight mile long track and the beauty of Fort Henry

ACTIVE KIDS

49 LOCAL SCHOOL NEWS

ACTIVE BODY

55 YOGA FOR ALL Yoga is inclusive and for everyone

ACTIVE SPORT

56 THE ROUNDUP

Jeremy brings us up to date with local sport

ActiveLife

Meet a teddy bear maker extraordinaire who has been making them for 60 years

Make a splash with wild swimming | 50 years for Laxton Junior School Will heads to Greetham and Fort Henry | Explore Zurich

Spring is in the air and Mother’s Day and Easter are just around the corner.

Have a look at some gifts and trips we recommend p22

Image: Burghley House

Gallery celebrating 10 years

ADA GALLERY CELEBRATES its 1 th irthda in arch. f ou have not visited Ada Galler efore it is a eautiful je eller outi ue ased in arket ar orough cele rating and stocking the est of ritish craftsmanshi . hen ou visit ou ill find a ide selection of handcrafted je eller and adornments over di erent to and emerging designer makers from throughout the .

uth ood the resident je eller and o ner orn in akham makes her gorgeous contem orar je eller ins ired ancient artefacts and treasures from her studio in-store. uth studied a degree in e eller esign ilversmithing at the chool of e eller in irmingham follo ed a ostgraduate ear at the restigious isho sland in 2 . er je eller and silver are have featured in ogue and e hi itions like Collect at the A. er je eller is also orn cele rities including o hile and rances uinn resulting sometimes in a aiting list due to high demand er Cave Treasure organic stone set rings are ver o ular es eciall for engagement rings and s ecial resents ith man es oke commissions eing made.

To cele rate Ada Galler s 1 th irthda the ill e giving a a a 2 Gift Card to s end in-store or via their online store. ollo on instagram @ada_gallery or ace ook @AdaAdornments for more information on ho to enter.

en ed to at 11- or sho online www.adagallery.co.uk

Hegarty celebrates 50 years

LOCAL SOLICITOR FIRM egart a long-term fi ture ithin eter orough s legal and usiness landsca e is em arking on an e citing ne cha ter this ear as it cele rates five decades of eing a trusted legal com anion to eo le in and around the cit .

As art of its th anniversar cele rations the firm is honouring the values and local firm ethos that has defined its identit for half a centur em arking on an ins iring journe of communit kindness ith initiatives lanned over the ne t 12 months.

The range of activities from tree lanting to ake sales and even a slightl more strenuous Three eaks Challenge aims to hel local residents causes communities and charities in a variet of a s. egart ill also e u ing its annual charit artner from one to four this ear ith a charit close to each of its o ce locations orts Connections oundation in eter orough ind ace in tamford e er s A afe lace in akham and ementia u ort in arket ee ing.

egart has also unveiled a modern ne look to commemorate its th ear milestone. egart as esta lished in 1 and is one of the largest la firms in the region. The firm o ers a ide range of legal e ertise from its o ces in arket ee ing tamford akham and eter orough.

www.hegarty.co.uk

Welland School of Dancing

Classic Ibiza’s charity

CLASSIC IBIZA IS returning to the grounds of Burghley House on aturda 2 ul romising over five hours of alearic-infused dance music headlined the 2- iece r an oul rchestra

. The famil -friendl concert hich erformed to nearl eo le u -and-do n the countr last ear has announced it will once again be teaming up with East Anglia s Children s os ices AC to hel raise funds for the outstanding work it does across the East of England.

EACH helps children, young people and their families living ith life-threatening conditions. The charit o ers local families e i ilit and control over here the receive their care and su ort - at home in hospital or at one of three hospices at Milton Cam ridge The ook orfolk and The Treehouse s ich . ore than half of the care and su ort the provide is delivered in the family home and community, in familiar and comfortable surroundings.

Burghley audiences will have the option of donating to EACH when they purchase tickets. There will also be various fundraising initiatives taking place on the evening, including a £2.50 donation from every programme sold as well as collection points at all entry and exit gates. Visit classicibiza.co.uk for tickets and more information.

Dalcour Maclaren opens a new office in Tinwell

DALCOUR MACLAREN IS an award winning leading land environmental consultancy known for delivering innovative and specialist services to the energy, utilities and infrastructure sectors. Formed in 2003, they have grown from three people to over 475 across 1 o ces Tin ell eing the 1 th covering ngland ales and Northern Ireland. The team are specialists in surveying, geomatics, environmental planning and property asset management, to name a few strings to their bow. They are immensel roud to e orking ith some of the largest firms in the UK, on projects which are instrumental in shaping the future of our lanet think 2 o shore ind farms and nuclear energ .

Opportunities to contribute towards a cleaner, greener UK directly align with the company’s expertise. They are committed to minimising the negative and maximising the positive impact on the environment working with clients towards achieving the UK’s goal of hitting net zero emissions.

In 2023 Dalcour Maclaren were awarded the EcoVadis silver medal for their commitment to sustainability, and have now won The Sunday Times ‘Top 100 Best Small Companies to Work For’ t ice. The are delighted to e o ening their latest o ce in Tin ell just outside tamford hich ill aid their recruitment e orts as they continue to strengthen coverage across the East Midlands and east coast and for the opportunities this will bring their clients in this region as well. www.dalcourmaclaren.com

Welland School of Dancing is 60

2024 IS A very special year for the Welland School of Dancing as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. To mark the occasion, they are holding a gala performance at the Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday 2 March. Former Principals, teachers and pupils will be there followed by a reception where old friends can meet again and share memories.

Founded in 1964 by Mrs Susan Mitchell Smith, the Welland School of Dancing held classes at the YMCA on St Peter’s Hill, tamford igh chool and a kee fit class in aston on the ill. Susan Mitchell Smith then bought 2 St Mary’s Passage which was the school’s tiny home until 1996.

Susan passed the school onto Karen Taylor in 1984, who ran the school for just one year. And then Anne Desbruslais and husband David Walker took it over in 1985. Under Anne and David’s care, the school grew to over 800 students. They needed a larger home, so in 1996 leased the former Stamford hotel ballroom studio in Stamford Walk. Over her 25 years as Principal, Anne with David introduced thousands of local children to dance instilling a passion for dance to many generations.

In 2010, former pupil and professional ballerina Maggie Purr and her husband James Skinner took over from Anne and David. ‘The school has changed in some a s e no o er hi ho contemporary, acro Dance and a programme of adult classes,’ says Maggie, ‘but in essence it has stayed the same. We are a friendly and welcoming school, open to all ages and abilities wishing to dance.’ www.wellandschoolofdancing.co.uk

For Gala Tickets phone 01780 766455

CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF THE CHARITABLE PRESERVATION TRUST AT LAMPORT HALL

50 Years: A Step Back in Time. Explore a brand new interactive exhibition looking at the last 50 years of history and the stories of the Trust. Open Wednesdays and Thursdays, April-October.

We also have a variety of events to mark the anniversary year including:

10th May - A musical concert with students from Rugby School

18th June - 50th Anniversary Study Day with lectures from Neil Lyon, Dr Laura Engel, Dr Jane Eade and Dr Megan Leyland.

27th July - Country club themed cocktail party with a gramophone DJ, live jazz vocals and swing dancing

13th September - Oxford University Dramatic Society present Dr Faustus

Tel: (01604) 686272 Email: engagement@lamporthall.co.uk

LAMPORT HALL , LAMPORT, NORTHAMP TONSHIRE NN6 9HD

What’s On!

THE 2024 PROGRAMME for the hugely popular Music in Lyddington concert season has been announced, and runs from 6 April to 12 October. Concerts take place on Saturday evenings in St Andrew’s Church, Lyddington giving locals the chance to listen to internationally acclaimed artists in an informal setting. Becoming a member guarantees you a seat and a considerable discount on tickets. Book online at www.wegottickets.com/

MusicInLyddington phone 01572 335133 or email mil-tickets@outlook.com

A FLOWER ARRANGING demonstration will be held at Stamford Methodist church on Barn Hill on Monday 11 March, 6.15 pm for 7pm start. Enjoy watching and be entertained by demonstrator Gill Mills as she creates large imaginative oral arrangements. Membership not required and no need to book. £6 on the door. karenlelawrie@icloud.com

CALLING ALL YOUNG actors aged 16-22. Tolethorpe Youth Drama theatre makers has announced the audition date for this year’s production of A Monster Calls. Auditions are on March 18. To apply to audition and for more information visit www.tolethorpeyouthdrama.co.uk

YOU ARE INVITED to a very special evening with locally-based Adam Frost (Gardeners’ World) on Thursday March 21 at Rutland Nursery. All funds raised from the ticket sales will go directly towards supporting MindSpace’s vital work. Adam will be in conversation with Chris Young, a MindSpace Trustee and answering advance questions from the audience.

Tickets cost £40 each and includes a glass or two of crémant and delicious canapés created in the restaurant at Rutland Nursery.

www.mindspacestamford.com

HARBOROUGH SINGERS WILL be performing Spring Blessings at St Dionysius church in Market Harborough on March 16 starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12 from www.harboroughsingers.com

THE NGS GARDENS spring into life this month with gardens open at Hedgehog Hall in Tilton on the Hill on 24 and 25 February and Gunthorpe Hall on 17 March. Visit the website for more details www.ngs.org.uk

THE MONTHLY PHOTOGRAPHY competition will continue throughout 2024 at Nene Park giving visitors the chance to share their pictures so do enter when you visit the estate. And do check out all their Easter activities which are online www.neneparktrust.org.uk

STAMFORD CHORAL ARE holding a concert on 16 March at St Martin’s church starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 (concessions £12) and available from www.stamfordchoral.co.uk or on the door

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RECIPE

Greek style fish stew

We are heading towards Easter and traditionally on Good Friday we eat fish. This recipe is delicious, easy to make and reminds me of holidays in Greece where I enjoyed delicious fish stews.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 chopped onion

• 2 chopped carrots

• 3 celery sticks, chopped

• 3 crushed garlic cloves

• Large tin of tomatoes

• 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

• 500g potatoes, cut into chunks (peel if you wish)

g sliced hake fillets

• Salt and pepper

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Method

• Heat the oil in a large, lidded saucepan and then gently fry the onion, carrot, celery and garlic for about 15 minutes until softened.

• Add the tomatoes, potato and parsley along with 250ml water.

• Season well, bring to the boil and then gently simmer for about 20 minutes until it has thickened and the potatoes are soft.

• Add the fish and cook for about 10 minutes until it flakes. Stir in the lemon zest and juice and gently break the fish up.

• Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve with crusty bread.

PRODUCT TEST

Flower of hope

Snowdrops are associated with the first signs of spring. Rowan Griffiths delves a bit deeper

SNOWDROPS ARE WIDELY considered to be a welcome sign that the end of winter is approaching and spring is just around the corner. They are found widely across the United Kingdom despite not being native to these islands and it is unclear when they were introduced from their natural home, mainland Europe. They have been cultivated here as an ornamental plant since at least the 16th century.

Galanthus nivalis its scientific name a ears and o ers from anuar to March, although sightings have been seen as early as November. The plants stand around 70 - 150mm tall and have very slender grey-green leaves. The milk white o er actuall lacks etals ut are divided up into segments known as tepals, which to most folk look like petals!

ecause the are not ollinators o ering as they do so early in the year, they spread by bulb division.

In traditional medicine snowdrops were prescribed as a painkiller for headache and in modern therapeutics a compound from the bulbs is currently being developed to treat dementia. However, snowdrops are poisonous and should not be eaten.

In Greek folklore Persephone, the goddess of spring and nature was forced by her uncle, Hades to live in the underworld during autumn and winter. When she returned in the spring she would bring snowdrops back with her. As her time below ground was associated with death, her reappearance with the o ers of ho e as considered a sign of renewal and growth. Snowdrops are also associated with the Christian festival of Candlemas, which is celebrated on 2 February. The plants were once often used at this time to decorate churches. Hence the alternative name of Candlemas bells.

SNUGEL heated gilet

Heated outerwear has become a ‘thing’ and we enjoyed trying out this heated gilet from SNUGEL, says Mary

IHAVE ALWAYS USED handwarmers and swear by them; one tucked inside your glove keeps your hand warm for hours and I’ve even tucked one in the pocket of my jeans too, works a treat. But I’d never tried a heated jacket or gilet and was very keen to as they sound a great idea. SNUGEL very kindly sent a heated gilet for all of us to try so we decided we would wear it when distributing the magazine as it can be a chilly job and fell last month on the coldest week of the year so far. Temperatures didn’t get above 2 degrees all day and when we started early in the morning it was -6. Perfect conditions to give it a go, but most importantly who was going to wear it?

First of all I need to explain the concept of heated outerwear. It really came into its own last winter when energy costs shot through the roof. Heated clothing and heated blankets popped up everywhere and meant that you didn’t have to put the heating on so much. And people then started wearing the clothing outside as well, which again makes perfect sense.

It’s really very simple. The SNUGEL gilet has an insulated wired back and an interior pocket in which you plug a small charged battery in. Then you press the button on the front of the gilet to start it and it then warms up. Having a warm back on a freezing cold day really does help and the battery lasts a good few hours.

The gilet itself is unisex, stylish and warm ith a light eight u adding ig collar and hood and then the added push button burst of heat is a real bonus. And it’s machine washable which is vital. So how did we get on? Very well. We all liked it and it really did do the job, so much so that Kate at one point was overheating thinking she was having a hot ush efore realising the gilet as doing its job very well!

It is perfect for a day in the garden too; roomy enough to let you stretch to prune the roses and start to tidy the winter beds in time for s ring and if ou get too arm turn it o and it will cool down pretty quickly.

It is now in my possession and I have been using it for its initial purpose too, sitting at my desk with a lovely warm back despite the house being freezing cold. We are supposed to be sharing it but sorry, possession is nine tenths of the law they say. And at the moment it’s with me….

www.snugel.co.uk The gilet costs £74 with the super light power bank priced at £26.

Garden Trading goodies

Quality tools to make your life easier in the garden.

Kneeler £25

Fork £12

Dibbler £12.95

Luxury hand cream £7.95

www.newlodgefarm.co.uk

Correct compost

Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre has an expansive array of compost types, suitable for man di erent lants. All com ost is eat free and sourced from the UK and Ireland. Prices vary depending on the compost type, however, much of their selection can be bought as bundles which are then discounted. www.langtongreenhouse.co.uk

Multi-purpose lawn seed

Amazing acers

Acer Garnet, one of many plants from Tandee Nursery near Oundle. Garden centre quality plants at trade prices.

Price: From £19.95 www.tandeenursery.co.uk

GARDENING

Gardening goodies

Get going in the garden this spring

Growing kit

Burgon and Ball Sow and Grow kit containing dibber, labels and seed envelopes. Price: £9.99

www.thebarngardencentre.co.uk

A special blend of quality, hard wearing seed varieties, ideal for starting a new lawn, over-seeding orn grass or filling in are patches. Great for all lawn soil types and will provide beautiful results, maintaining colour all season and helping to deter birds.

Price: £9.99

www.bosworthsgc.co.uk

Garden Gifts

Agapanthus collection (Dahlias also available) to bring joy to a friend’s garden

Price: £9.99

www.wellandvale.co.uk

The best of Zurich

Zurich has it all: history, culture, a thriving nightlife, luxury shopping and plenty of outdoor activities including lake bathing but be warned, it is expensive

ZURICH IS THE biggest city in Switzerland. It’s also the financial ca ital hence the vast choice of high end ining dining and sho ing ut there are lent of tours and activities to do on a reduced udget. ituated right ne t to ake urich ith the iver immat running through it urich is an all- ear-round destination. ne of the most o ular things to do is alk and c cle along the river or take a cruise on the lake. And ou must definitel head for one of the various adis the lake and riverside athing areas for a di in the clear and clean ater. The locals s im on the a to ork and as tourists it s eas to have a uick lunge then head o to e lore the man sights in the cit .

There are over museums and 1 art galleries to visit including the andesmuseum hich gives a su er overvie of iss histor . There are 1 museums aimed s ecificall at children including the Aathal inosaur useum or the A museum. T ent -one museums and attractions are free to enter.

The old to n is the historic heart of the cit and follo s oth sides of the immat. Guild houses churches and s uares sit ne t to each other cheek jo l turn in an direction and there s something fascinating to see. The t in to ers of the Grossm nster are regarded as the most recognised landmark in urich t eter is the oldest church in the cit and has the oldest clock face in uro e. The raum nster or omen s Church is reno ned for its indo s designed arc Chagall and the ahnhofstrasse is one of the orld s most lu urious sho ing streets ut as once a ditch or evening entertainment there s a ealth of large and small theatres ca aret and comed clu s to choose from and of course the grand o era house ith a varied rogramme of o era allet and classical concerts. efore ou see a sho enjo a snack or a meal in one of the hundreds of caf s ars and restaurants in the inding net ork of ack streets it erland is reno ned for its eer cheese including fondue of course and chocolate.

And once ou ve enjo ed ever thing the cit has to o er it s time to e lore the outskirts. etli erg is urich s local mountain and it s eas to reach the to either train from the centre of the cit or foot from its ase although it is uite a hike u . rom the to ou get a anoramic vie of the hole cit the lake and the Al s in the distance. n the summer ou can hike or mountain ike on it in the

inter the hiking trails are erfect for sno shoeing and sledging. t s also eas to travel further afield ecause as e all kno the iss trains run like clock ork. Andermatt is onl t o hours a a train and is one of the est areas in the Al s for advanced skiers and sno oarders. And ne lifts and links to edrun have o ened u more areas for eginners and intermediates. no conditions even last ear sta ed consistentl good here. aa lims is another su er ski resort close to urich also onl t o hours a a .

A half hour train journe to ug Canton takes ou to the igi ountain the onl female mountain in it erland all the others have a male name and it is stunning an time of the ear. rom the summit ou see t o eautiful lakes ake ug and ake u ern. ou can hike to the to or travel in st le on one of the cog heel trains or ca le cars. uro e s first mountain rail a made its inaugural ascent u ount igi in a 1 1 and it hasn t sto ed since. an eo le visit in the s ring to see the vast arra of ild o ers gro ing on the slo es and to hear the co s and goats ells ver eidi-es ue. o e a are that tourists ill need to carr cash as man caf s in the hills onl acce t T int a ments for hich ou need a iss ank account.

t seems herever ou look in urich and the area there is someone on a ike air of skis or roller skates or ith a dog alking oles and of course earing a rucksack. The re an active lot the iss and the main reason for that is the have a eautiful countr in hich to e lore.

www.zuerich.com | www.rigi.ch/en | www.andermatt.swiss/en

'There are over 50 museums and 100 art galleries to visit including the Landesmuseum which gives a superb overview of Swiss history.'

A DOUBLE WHAMMY

March brings two important occasions on the calendar to celebrate.

THIS MARCH We have two events to celebrate: Mother’s Day and Easter, lucky us. It’s often a time for family members to get together and enjoy each other’s company exploring what’s on and where to eat in our beautiful area. For others it might be an opportunity to treat themselves to the little luxuries they don’t normally have time for.

We have compiled a list of things to do, places to visit and gifts to buy. It appears that garden centres top the list of popular destinations, and why not? They have it all – masses of plants to choose from, plenty of gifts to buy for the home and garden and to to it o delicious lunches and afternoon teas.

Mother's Day and Easter PLACES TO VISIT

We are spoiled for choice for interesting places to visit.

Burghley House and Gardens

Burghley’s South Gardens open in all their spring glory from 10am to 5pm from 16 March to 14 April 2024. Only open for a handful of weeks each year, don’t miss this opportunity to visit the private South Gardens, designed by Capability Brown in the 18th century and witness truly wonderful views of the lake, Lion Bridge and the Park beyond. Discover the beautiful Summer House overlooking the lake, the oak circle and enjoy swathes of spring snowdrops and nodding da odils in the gardens.

And to entertain the young ones, Burghley is running its everpopular Easter Egg Treasure Hunt on Easter Sunday 31 March. They will love hunting for clues hidden around the Sculpture Garden to solve the seasonal puzzle and claim an Easter Egg from Burghley’s Easter Bunny.

www.burghley.co.uk

Deene Park

Join in the fun at Deene Park on Easter Sunday and Monday for lots of Egg-citement as you explore the house and garden.

Child admission includes their Easter Garden Trail. Collect an activity sheet when you arrive and explore the formal garden in search of hidden letters so you can uncover the secret word. Get creative at the colouring station, join friends from Just Karen with bubble displays and storytelling, and grab a photo with the Easter Bunny who will be hopping around the garden all afternoon.

The historic house will be open and visitors can explore the house on a selfguided free- o tour ith volunteer room guides on hand to explain the history of the house and the Brudenell family.

www.deenepark.com

Lamport Hall

Set in approximately ten acres of tranquil gardens, enclosed by a spacious park, Lamport Hall has been in the Isham family for over four centuries and the fortunes, interests and trials of each generation have left their mark. It’s an absolutely fascinating place to visit, and the new season starts from 3 April with the launch of the brand new anniversary exhibition.

Before then, don’t miss the Antiques and Vintage Fair on Easter Sunday and Monday, from 10-4pm.

www.lamporthall.co.uk

The Boot Inn oin them at outh u enham on unda 1 arch for other s a . They have a fantastic food menu to choose from, plus a great selection of wines, spirits and beer. If you dine at the Boot Inn on the day, you’ll get 2 o our ne t visit et een 1 -2 arch.

And on Easter Sunday 31 March Hats Funny Comedy returns to its founding venue with a new act and new material for a comedy night. At least five comedians ill take to the mic tr ing out some of their freshest jokes and tightening up their punchlines. It could be a brand ne comic it could e a seasoned ro ut it could also e the ne t ig thing. Don’t miss it!

ased in the heart of outh u enham The oot nn is a famil and dog friendly pub which is also available for private events. They have TNT sports, so show premiership rugby, football and European football live.

01780 720177 or email info@thebootrutland.com

Launde Abbey

Another beautiful location for Sunday lunch on Mother’s Day and over Easter is Launde Abbey. Lunch is from 12.30 to 2pm and must be booked in advance. The garden is wonderful with a Victorian kitchen garden still growing much of the produce used in the kitchen. And if you fancy a longer stroll, there are some great circular walks from the Abbey, with route maps provided in reception.

If you want to spend time in the Abbey, you can book in as a day guest which entitles you to lunch, home made biscuits and cake, unlimited tea and co ee and access to man areas of the A e including the Chapel. www.laundeabbey.org.uk

The Falcon Hotel

The Falcon Hotel in Uppingham is every bit as charming as you could ho e and ith friendl sta and elegant food a given it s a sta le choice for dining out this Mother’s Day or Easter.

Walk in through the original stone archways of the 16th century coaching inn find our s ot on the rela ed sofas or the traditional main lounge tables, and come the spring, the garden terrace is open so food and drink can be enjoyed in the sunshine.

Lunch at the Falcon, where you can enjoy the menus in any restaurant area, is a lovely treat. For those where a long lunch is the order of the day, there are starters of lobster raviolo and oak smoked pigeon breast, followed by mussels with chorizo or herb crusted pork, a glass of wine and perhaps a sumptuous dessert to follow. If a lighter lunch is required Hambleton Bakery bread sandwiches with fresh fillings like the o ular favourite cra and avocado are a great choice accompanied by traditional hand cut chips.

It’s also a great stop for traditional Afternoon Tea. A selection of sand iches is first ith the savour treats roviding the ne t course. The s eet treats are not to e missed. The in-house akers o ulate the afternoon tea stands with a selection of cakes and desserts and no afternoon tea is complete without a homemade scone with Cornish clotted cream. or those ho ant something e tra s ecial a glass of champagne is on hand.

For a treat for others, or simply to treat yourself, a trip to The Falcon in Uppingham is not to be missed.

www.falcon-hotel.co.uk

'Walk in through the original stone archways of the 16th century coaching inn, find your spot on the relaxed sofas or the traditional main lounge tables'

ACTIVITIES TO TRY

Don’t be stuck for activities to enjoy this Mother’s Day or over Easter. Try one of these of these fun-filled ideas.

Upholstery workshops

oin the fa ulousl friendl o utton for u holster orksho s in ingham the are enjo a le uiet creative fun da s giving ou a chance to e lore a ne craft or continue a much loved ho . o elcomes oth ne or e erienced crafters here ou ll have the opportunity to learn and practice on your own furniture, restoring it to re ect our uni ue and creative air.

t s a lovel a to chat and catch u meet ith others and e a le to work with your hands to really create something strong, comfy and eautiful for our home.

o have ou got a iece of furniture much loved ut tired something run do n not re ecting our st le or some argain ou ant to ork on Then ring it along and ou ll learn ho to stri it out and use the various techni ues our chair needs.

The orksho s run from . am to m and co ee tea and cake is rovided. o has the right tools for ou to orro or u she sells the internal u holster materials ou need and leaves ou to ring the glorious and lovel to fa rics of our choice.

orksho s can e ought er da at or in five da ackages of 2 . The make lovel gifts and da s out together so erfect for mothers and daughters for a other s a treat. t s a chance to un ind rela and have a fun mindful da creating something special whilst sharing it with someone special.

To book, contact Jo Sutton on 07415767826 or email on joatno40@ gmail.com. She looks forward to hearing from you. www.joatno40.co.uk

Spa days

Whether you want to treat yourself or spoil someone special, Revive kin and a have something to o er ever one this other s a and throughout arch ith their e clusive use facilities and e tensive treatment list. hat s a etter a to sa thank ou or to sim l catch up than a morning, afternoon or twilight session of pure am ering hether ou re having a natter in the u ling hot tu or do ing o side side in the rela room their e clusive s a in arket ar orough is the ideal setting to s end some much-needed ualit time together.

evive kin and a are o ering three di erent ackages Time for um s a da um and e s a da and e Time s a da . T o of the ackages include t o hours in the e clusive use s a all ackages include a Cham agne and Tru es facial rosecco and chocolate some include a free anti-ageing e Tru e cream orth hile stocks last and or a good ag. And a ight ite Afternoon Tea for t o as an o tional e tra can e added on for 1 2 er erson. Prices from £95.

www.reviveskinandspa.co.uk

Glamping and hydrotherapy pool

Another lovely treat is to stay overnight in one of the self contained 5* glamping pods or shepherd’s huts at New Lodge Farm campsite Near Bulwick. With the onsite farm shop well stocked with meat from their own livestock, and the wonderful Lockdown Café there is no need for ou to lift a finger during our sta . And remem er to ook in for a Mother’s Day or Easter Sunday lunch from 12-2pm.

And to round o the erfect sta make sure ou ook in to use the hydrotherapy pool. The pool is open seven days a week from March ith an introductor o er of 1 er hour for u to t o eo le either swim against the current or just lie back and soak away any stress.

www.newlodgefarm.co.uk

Take a walk

And of course, what’s more pleasant than spending Mother’s Day or the Easter bank holidays going for a walk with family or friends. We’ve published guides to the best local walks in the area, some short, others a bit longer to help you work up an appetite for lunch or afternoon tea.

www.theactivemag.com

Hit the slopes or the water

Somewhere else to guarantee plenty of fun during the celebrations is Tallington Lakes. If you can’t make it to the slopes this year, don’t worry, the dry slope with the new Proslope surface is almost like the real thing. And if that doesn’t whet your whistle, all the water sports open for the season on the Easter weekend including SUP, indsurfing ater skiing sailing and ka aking.

www.tallington.com

Live Action Gaming

If you want something a little more energetic, why not grab your family or friends and organise a team for next level laser tag? Rumble Live Action Gaming have sites at Rutland Water and Grafham Water and it’s such a fun thing to do. (Trust us, we’ve played!)

You’ll be kitted out with top notch equipment, given an indepth riefing the um le angers set our missions and then ou re read to play. It really gets the adrenaline going as you sneak up on your enemy in the various hides and towers while trying to avoid them doing the same. But don’t worry, there are no projectiles or bruises, just loads of fun!

From £18 per person for an hour (with discounts for group bookings) Rumble Live is open from 2 March on Saturdays and Sundays. Mums get to play free on Mother’s Day. Just enter the code MUM at checkout for one free space (valid for bookings 10 March 2024).

www.rumblelive.co.uk

15 Market Place, Oundle PE8 4BA

Mother’s Day, Easter chocolates. Rapeseed oils, jams, pickles and special co ee.

TEL: 01832 358170 OPENING TIMES WED-SAT 10.30AM - 4.30PM

GARDEN CENTRE DELIGHTS

Combining places to visit with a delicious bite to eat, garden centres have it all. Here are some of the best in our area.

Welland Vale Garden Centre

As spring awakens there is joy to be found at Welland Vale Garden Centre. Up at the nurser the team are us lanting and nurturing hundreds and thousands of seedlings read to create eautiful askets and stock the garden centre for the season.

t is filling u fast ith colour and delights including gorgeous gardening gifts for ums for other s a and aster treats and decorations for the home. lus a free house lant gift ra service and a ide selection of cards and gardening vouchers. Meander around the planteria and spot the new signs of life: buds on the wide range of trees eautiful right o ers on the camellias the ne shoots of the s eet eas and cheer from the rimroses. f ou re stuck for a erfect gift h not tr a eautiful lossom tree colourful homegro n senetti gardening ooks house lants candles hand creams and ath soaks or a timeless rose. All can e found at elland ale and much much more.

The rchard Caf is read to elcome ou and our famil for a ide range of homemade delights including freshl made meals hot drinks alcohol and in-house cakes all at ver reasona le rices. ums are in for a free gift with a Mother’s Day lunch ooking and e ect aster treats over the bank holiday. (The garden centre and café are closed on Easter Sunday.) Or why not book for one of their decadent afternoon teas t s a erfect a to s end time ith famil and friends.

www.wellandvale.co.uk

Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre

Spring fever is in full swing at Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre near Market ar orough. The di erent de artments are host to an eclectic arra of ring musthaves. o is rime gardening season and their horticulturist team have orked hard to provide you with a truly versatile range of stunning s ring ora including erennials and her s as ell as gardening tools and accessories sourced to su liers across the UK and Europe. Thanks to their recent outdoor garden e tension the have managed to e and their selection ith the ol tunnel o ering a 2 dr sho ing e erience ena ling ou to sho comforta l whether it’s rain or shine.

f ou re stuck on ho to kick-start our aster cele rations this is the erfect one-sto sho for all our aster gifts and goodies. Browse their speciality food and gift de artments from decorative ieces and cards to aster eggs and chocolates di erent dietar re uirements too. The o er a vast range of home are clothing ell eing roducts and more guaranteed to com liment an s ring ardro e and home. The same a lies to their foods de artment they hold a continuously growing collection of e cellent roduce and delicacies from ever da musts to s ecial occasion necessities.

With Mother’s Day falling on March 10th this ear it is time to lan an unforgetta le e erience that our mother ill al a s treasure such as a lovel lunch out ith the famil . The sta at angton Greenhouse Cafe are thrilled to provide a special Mother’s Day lunch menu on unda arch 1 o ering some e ce tionall delicious dishes. The service is alk-in onl so feel free to rock u and treat our mother to a meal that ill do more than cleanse the alate.

www.langtongreenhouse.co.uk

Barn Garden Centre

Gardens come in all sha es and si es and the sta at the arn Garden Centre near Oundle are always happy to help you with ours. A famil o ned usiness since 1 the Barn prides itself on the quality of its plants and the friendliness of its service.

And it s not just lants the gift de artment is continually refreshed with new stock including cards home are and candles. There’s a wide range of garden furniture including istro sets enches arasols and fire its. And don t forget the outdoor lighting. Houseplants are also popular and there s al a s a fresh dis la of those ith roducts to kee them looking their est including ots com ost and feed.

Then once you’ve chosen the perfect gift for our house and garden o into the Boxwood Café for a bite to eat. There are indoor and outdoor dining areas overlooking the lants. en seven da s a eek the dail s ecials oard has ecome a real hit ith their customers and don t forget to re- ook a delicious afternoon tea.

www.thebarngardencentre.co.uk

Bosworth’s Garden Centre

Another fa ulous famil -o ned inde endent garden centre os orth s has centres in lton and urton atimer ith a team of kno ledgea le sta ho are assionate about plants on hand to help you.

ith a rela ed and inviting atmos here os orth s in lton o ers a ide range of lants gro n in their o n nurser surrounded mature trees. The itchen Garden grows fresh fruit and vegetables for the Mulberry Café where you can enjoy reakfast light lunches afternoon teas cakes and drinks. Make sure you book afternoon tea for Mother’s Day as it’s so popular.

www.bosworthsgc.co.uk

THE AFTERNOON TEA OF DREAMS

Mary enjoys a Mother’s Day treat at Stapleford Park

Afternoon tea is one of my favourites. I always think it harks back to a bygone era when time was more abundant (or appeared to be) and people were able to sit down and enjoy lovely food and the perfect cup of tea all served on delicate bone china whilst enjoying each other’s company and good conversation. And the setting was usually in a beautiful sunny garden or large country house. All very Edwardian and quintessentially British.

Afternoon tea at Stapleford Park Hotel takes you right back to that era and is the perfect setting for a Mother’s Day treat. My daughters and I recently enjoyed afternoon tea there and can thoroughly recommend it. Stapleford is one of my favourite buildings with its Georgian façade and nods to a French chateau. It has fabulous gardens and grounds and the interior is just as beautiful as outside. Huge windows, fabulous ceilings, stunning chandeliers and roaring o en fires in many of the large reception rooms. A perfect setting for afternoon tea.

And it did not disa oint. ervice and sta were excellent but we were also left alone and they did not intrude. First of all we chose our preferred tea, and the list was long. Afternoon tea options are varied with everyone catered for from gluten free to vegan to vegetarian. One of us is vegetarian and the choice of sandwiches for her was good: roasted courgette, celeriac and apple in one and chickpea, coriander and red onion relish in another. And the ‘normal’ afternoon

tea was just as good too. As well as sandwiches, which were topped up on demand, there was scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream and delicious cakes too; far too much for us to eat in one setting so we left with a few bits boxed up for later.

We were replete, full of delicious food which we had thoroughly enjoyed. What’s more we had been sitting in beautiful surroundings, left very much alone by the uno trusive e cellent sta and ere a le to stay for much longer, chatting, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company – just what afternoon tea should all be about.

www.staplefordpark.com

Classical Hatha Yoga

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Calm your mind, relieve anxiety. Gain greater fexibility, strength, muscle tone, stamina & focus

Calm your mind, relieve anxiety.

Gain greater flexibility, strength, muscle tone, stamina & focus

12 Broad Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PG Mob: 07738 272474

Website: www.stamfordyoga.co.uk

Email: info@stamfordyoga.co.uk

Joatno40 High Street East Uppingham

9.30-4pm each day

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6th, 7th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 21st, 25th, 26th, 28th

February

8th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 15th, 16th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd,

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4th, 8th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 15th, 16th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd

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40 High Street East, Uppingham 07415767826 joatno40@gmail.com www.joatno40.co.uk

Treasure trove

When you walk into Tracey’s Emporium in Uppingham you never know what you’ll walk out with. It’s a treasure trove of items from furniture, lamps and mirrors, baskets, pottery and glass are to com lete one-o items ou ll never find an here else. Just the ticket for a present on Mother’s Day. www.facebook.com/ Traceysemporium

chocolate shop in Oundle. Owner

Sally has delicious Belgian chocolate to suit every taste. She says: ‘Mothers are so special and our chocolates are so special too. And with Easter on its way, our chocolate eggs are on their way to delight you and your taste buds. Joyeuses Pâcques.’

15 Market Pl, Oundle.  01832 358170

GIFTS TO BUY

There’s no shortage of independent retailers locally where you can buy the perfect gift

Mother's Day and Easter

Handmade gifts

For a unique, handmade gift from a wide range of local artists, craftsfolk and retailers, don’t forget to visit The Place in Stamford. Like this beautiful handmade fused glass arch guaranteed to brighten up the home.

Price: £50

www.theplacestamford.co.uk

Handcrafted jewellery

For timeless contemporary jewellery, handcrafted from silver and gold, look no further than Ada Gallery in Market Harborough. Owner and jeweller Ruth Wood has a wonderful display of her own work, plus plenty of pieces from over 30 other makers. She will also create bespoke jewellery for you, perfect for that special gift.

Cave Eroded 23ct Yellow Goldplated Silver Necklace by Ruth Wood. Inspired by irregular form, rock formations and ancient artefacts.

Zesty candles

Treat your mother to a reinvigorating, sensory experience with a botanical soy candle from The Wick & Wax Co. Combining zesty fruits such as bergamot, lime and mandarin, with aromatic herbs, this candle comes in a gorgeous green glass jar and is packaged perfectly for a gift for Mother’s Day. Available in the Midi size (220g Net). Price: £30

www.thewickandwax.co

Price: from £160

www.adagallery.co.uk

A world of teddy bears

Mary meets teddy bear designer extraordinaire Pam Howells, who has been making them for over 60 years

PAM HOWELLS WAS brought up in Abertillery in the Welsh Valleys and left school at 15 to go to art college in Newport. She’d always loved art and been good at it with the ultimate dream being to illustrate children’s books.

Because Pam’s birthday fell a week after a cut o oint in the academic calendar it meant that she would have to repeat her year at art college before she could take the intermediate exam (don’t ask, it all sounds very complicated), or she got a job and went into industry. Pam chose industry so was sent for an interview with Chiltern Toys in Pontypool as an assistant to the designer.

‘I walked into the reception and in front of me was a display of teddy bears. I’d never had one as a child as it was during the war and toys weren’t available. My mother had told me about them and that was it, I was hooked.’

Pam could also sew having always made her own clothes and clothes for her dolls as well so she was taken on by the company. This as in 1 . n that first month she as taught how to put the patterns together, make the joints, how to put the toys together ith the stu ng and do iece ork. And of

course, work with the designer too. She wasn’t just making teddies but chassis toys (wheeled ones) and soft toys too. The designer then left, a few other new designers didn’t work out so Pam ended up as the soft toy designer at the tender age of 17!

She stayed with Chiltern Toys for 10 years and became well known in the industry as a soft toy designer. She also met her husband who worked at the company as a sculptor making dolls’ heads out of resin and working on vinyl toys. She then left to have her daughter.

The family moved to Lincolnshire in 1968 as the company was taken over by Chad Valley and her husband’s job moved to Peterborough. Pam did a bit of freelance work making soft toys but soon started out on her own. ‘I was often asked to make toys, teddy bears in particular so in 1973 opened a workshop and shop in Crowland with a friend (which she ran for the next 30 years). I made soft toys and specialised in teddy bears.’ As well as selling the toys in her shop she was supplying shops all over the country, and abroad as well. She came to the attention of The Toy Makers Guild and won an award.

Her training served her well as she still worked making the toys as if on a production line. She would cut the patterns one day. Then spend another making legs, another making arms and bodies and then another stu ng and jointing. viousl this is all very labour intensive and takes up space and time. Gradually Pam started making more collectable bears and by the 1980s this was the main part of her business.

Collectable bears are what they are described as; collectable and beautiful. Made of mohair, or sometimes alpaca each bear is unique. Eyes are glass and noses are hand embroidered (‘that can take an hour alone’ says Pam). Her collectable bears were in high demand (and still are) being sold all over the world including New Zealand, Australia, Japan and Singapore and nearer to home in tedd ear sho s in Cam ridge undle and further afield. The 1 s ere ig for collecta le ears ith five di erent magazines, numerous books and specialist

bear shops in many towns. Sometimes Pam dressed the bears (always in silk), some were made from di erent fa rics and follo ed di erent themes ut all have friendl smile faces. And each one was beautiful. She still made bears and wildlife toys for children too. I loved the fox and cat she showed me, as well as the many beautiful bears which were hard to resist.

At the time it as di cult to get hold of mohair for the collectable bears but Pam was able to use her contacts within the industry to find some glass e es too. The mohair she uses now comes from Germany from a factor o ned tei and costs u to 2 a metre.

Pam didn’t divulge how long it takes to make a bear, or how many she has made (thousands probably in 60 years). ‘I’m very disorganised so never really counted,' she told me.

Gradually over the years Pam has slowed down making toys but until very recently she was attending numerous shows and fairs every year showcasing and selling her toys. Teddy bear collectors are all over the world and Pam’s bears are very popular. If you look on ebay you will see her bears as well as on specialist sites and she is still asked to make one to add to a collection. Some collectors have more than 2 of am s ears and are always looking for more.

Now in her eighties Pam describes herself as ‘in her swansong’ when it comes to bear making. But she still loves it and attends two fairs a year in Kensington, ‘but thinks this year may be my last.’ I can understand why as the pressure is on to make as many toys as possible to take to the fairs. But Pam still attends a couple of local fairs, one in her village and the frost fair at Molecey Mill so there is still a chance to buy one of her lovely toys.

But despite claiming she is winding down she is still full of ideas sketching designs and colour schemes in her notebook. ‘I love the creative side and ringing a at little drawing to life. I’m always thinking of something and designing. And making the bears keeps me going.’

'She came to the attention of The Toy Makers Guild and won an award. '

Teddy bear maker

Make a splash with wild swimming

Thinking about going for a dip outdoors this spring? Laura Silverman explores some of the benefits – and gives tips on getting started

Wild swimming

N

OTHING COMES CLOSE to the exhilaration of wild swimming. Whether you’ve already taken the plunge or simply want to dip a toe in, the great outdoors is waiting for you. Lakes, rivers and seas have long lent themselves to a di a lunge a athe a oat a splash and a splosh. But it’s only recently that we’ve begun to appreciate just how much a s im in nature can enefit our mind body and soul. And it has even recently been proven to help with menopause symptoms.

Wild swimming encourages us to disconnect from daily stress and pay attention to the present moment. We can listen to the swish of the water and feel its resistance. We can watch birds absorbed in projects, building a nest or feeding their oung. e can oat to rela ga ing u at the clouds, or dart through the water as we channel our inner dolphin. Wild swimming connects us with our environment. It puts us at one with the world. It sets us free.

Blue spaces

If you’re lucky enough to stumble across a pod of bathers at the water’s edge, they will ood ou ith reasons h the love ild swimming: it gives them energy. It clears their head. It connects them with nature. It makes them feel part of a community. For many, a plunge in cold water helps to manage stress. For those going through challenging times it o ers ers ective.

Spending 20 minutes regularly in or near blue spaces – large bodies of water – boosts our long-term well-being. ‘Blue mind theory,’ developed by marine biologist Wallace J Nichols, suggests that being around water encourages a gentle meditative state. Its blue hue may well be important: according to

colour psychology, we associate it with feelings of peace and tranquillity.

Watching the ocean also increases alpha waves in our brain, which are those produced when we’re calm. Listening to the crash of waves or lapping water switches on our parasympathetic nervous system, the network of nerves that relaxes us.

Swimming on prescription

Cold-water bathing has been in vogue for centuries. n the fifth centur C Hippocrates recommended it to ease fatigue. In the eighteenth century, Dr Richard Russell, a British physician, championed seawater bathing for ailments from scurvy to gland conditions.

erts toda think the ma have een onto something. Cold water, below 15°C may boost immunity, reduce chronic pain and improve circulation. Small doses are best. We need to allow our bodies to adjust to the cold and recognise when we should return to the warmth so that we don’t get hypothermia.

We can be out of the water and feel great and then five 1 minutes later e start to feel cold. The fall in our core temperature at this stage is called ‘afterdrop’ and it’s to do with circulation. When we emerge, the warmer blood in our core hurries to the muscles and tissues in our body that are especially cold, on a vital mission to heat them up. The cooler blood then moves to our core, and our brain thinks our bodies are getting colder.

Swimmers in the know have an action plan. First, they dress quickly, putting on their to first as this arms u their core and vital organs around the heart. Then, they heat themselves up from the inside out by doing star-jumps, dancing or powerwalking. Having a warm drink can be

'Wild swimming encourages us to disconnect from daily stress and pay attention to the present moment.'

comforting too although the e ect on od temperature is minimal. A lukewarm (not hot) shower can help, too.

All the gear

Roman soldiers swam in full armour, but you don’t need to go that far. Yet, depending on where you swim, you might like to supplement your bikini or trunks with some cold-water kit.

Many swimmers like to invest in a wetsuit for added buoyancy and warmth, a brightly coloured s im ca and to oat for visi ilit (essential), swim gloves and boots for extra warmth, and goggles with UV lenses to protect their eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun, especially as its rays re ect o the ater. A histle to attract attention if you, or a swim buddy, gets into trouble, can be useful, too – as can a compass, especially at night or in fog.

Where to swim

Lakes, rivers and the sea all have their own appeal and quirks. Lakes are usually relatively still and safe, but there are a few things to watch out for. One risk is weeds. If you’re caught up in them, don’t panic – just slide your limbs out the same way as they went in. You should also avoid blue-green

algae. These looms hich look like aint on the water, can cause rashes and, if swallowed, can make you sick.

A carefree s lash in a river can e a rilliant a into ild s imming ut ou should remem er that each river is di erent. ou ll need to give the river a uick ersonalit test efore ou s im in it understanding how it reacts to rain and o stacles along its course. t s also orth checking that the ank at our entr and e it oints is solid and not silt . Avoid eirs dams and locks on our s im. The all a ect the o of a river.

The seaside is often our first love. As children, it can represent ice cream, sandcastles and s lashing in the ater. ven as e get older it can o er us the o ortunit to s itch o and let go hen e lie on our acks and oat or hen e la in the aves. ut safet is vital here too. Ask locals a out our ro osed s ot. A roach lifeguards sailing clu s surfers and swimmers. Do they know, for example, if rip currents are common at the each ake sure you’re also aware of the tides.

Farmstays celebrates 40 years

Give it a go hatever location ou ick take a friend even if the don t get in the ater as the can help you or call for assistance should you need it. emem er that it s harder to s im in o en ater than at a ool as ou ro a l on t e a le to touch the ottom or gra the side when you feel tired or get cramp. Seek medical advice efore going ild s imming if ou have heart disease an irregular heart eat angina or untreated high lood pressure.

o all ou have to do is rave the temperature. Cold water can come as a shock on our first fe ild s ims ut ith preparation and determination, you will soon get used to it. As a cold- ater taster tr having a cold sho er. t might not e uite as e hilarating ut it ill e a start. Then ick a s ot for a di or find a local ild s imming grou . our a uatic adventure awaits.

This is an edited extract from The Little Book for Wild Swimmers by Laura Silverman (Summersdale, £8.99), which is out now.

There are many spots locally to wild swim or you could go further afield and com ine a s im ith a sta in the countr side on a orking farm. armsta s is cele rating its th anniversar this ear hich sa s it all a out the success of the conce t.

The aim of armsta s hich is a not for rofit farmer-o ned consortium is to romote the s farm and agri-tourism industr . The have hundreds of farm sta s and countr side

Wild swimming

properties for you to enjoy and are always looking for more farmers to join them. armers have een a le to diversif and guests are a le to sta in laces that are often remote ith stunning scenery and enjoy the peace and quiet and, in many cases, experience life on a working farm. Many are on working farms o ering self catered holida cottages ith hot tu s glam ing sites or ed and reakfast in the farmhouse at com etitive rices. And man of these farms ill have rivers or lakes you can swim in.

www.farmstays.co.uk

A DEBUT NOVEL

They say there is a novel in everyone. Rutland novelist Robert Tregay is not so sure

THERE IS A gulf, Robert says, between an initial idea for a novel and a u lished ook. And ou onl find out just ho immense that gulf is if ou jum a oard set sail and reach land again over the hori on. t took him five ears ut it turned out to e a journe of a lifetime. The result he recentl u lished his first novel to great revie s nvasion a gri ing stor of love, intrigue and survival based on true history.

nvasion is a thriller and tells the stor of a reluctant ritish s sent to or a in 1 during the coldest inter for a hundred ears. eaving ehind his life as a research student in ford he ecomes embroiled in the tumultuous events of the German invasion and the esca e of or a s gold reserves from the central ank in slo. Targeted as oth a thief and a dangerous s he is soon on the run and must rel on childhood friends ho risk ever thing to kee him alive. ut not ever one is ho the seem. ho can he trust as ruthless assassins close in Can he unlock the secrets of the invasion lans And in the itiless cold of a long and rutal inter can he solve the haunting mystery of Marta, a girl who vanished years ago from an isolated farm high in the forests.

o ert is often asked ho and h eo le ecome novelists. e thinks ever one ill have a di erent motivation. n his revious life he as senior artner and then chairman of a design and environmental consultanc A esign. The firm orked and still orks internationall and throughout the on rojects var ing from tidal energ lagoons and o shore indfarms to ha itat creation and ur an regeneration. A ere the landsca e architects for the

"Robert believes there is great advantage in writing a novel with a few years behind you. He is sure he could not have written Invasion aged, say, twenty five."

2 12 l m ic ark in ondon. o ert s o n areas of interest ere ne settlement master lanning national arks ecological a roaches to landsca e design climate change and historic environments. etirement eckoned in 2 1 and he kne he anted a ne career and not just ho ies ut a slo er life too ith fe er 12-hour da s. A ne creative challenge.

Robert believes there is great advantage in writing a novel with a fe ears ehind ou. e is sure he could not have ritten nvasion aged sa t ent five. or him e erience in life is here man of his stories and insights come from as a novelist. The have ena led him to rite something original and discover his o n voice as a novelist.

e has accumulated some of his most thrilling memories as short video cli s in his mind man of hich have found their a into his novel hat it is like to alk hundreds of miles in the mountains lead a usiness as recession looms or research the develo ment of ice age theor in the 1 2 s and s. e has alked lind through li ards clim ed high rock faces crossed an ice ca and handled a small sailing oat in heav seas. h is gold held central anks hat is it like to live in a remote hut high in the mountains, run a farm, manage a forest, fall in love, drink more varieties of aquavit than you kne e isted o are moral choices made in times of ersonal danger All of these e eriences have enriched nvasion hel ing to develo the characters and trans ort the reader to another lace eighty years ago.

s there another ook on the a es he sa s. t ill e set in almouth another stor of intrigue m ster and love.

nvasion is sold locall at alkers ooksho s in tamford and akham utland Garden illage arefoot unda and Gates nurser as ell as on Ama on here it is availa le in a er ack and e ook forms.

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Greetham and Fort Henry

A wonderful walk on largely good tracks, including a rare straight mile, with the enchanting Fort Henry thrown in for good measure.

By Will Hetherington

Images: Will Hetherington

WILL’S WALK

Difficulty rating

The route

ark here ou can in Greetham and set o on the iking a hich runs south o the main road through the village almost o osite Great ane. ou ill soon ass a cou le of chicken farms on either side of the track. After a out one kilometre the ath takes a right left around the corner of a small iece of oodland after hich ou ill e on an estate road. ee heading south ignoring the sign osted left hand turn on to a farm track lined ith small trees. ou ill then alk do n into a di and u the other side. nce ou are heading east after the di ignore the ath to the right running do n the estern edge of Tunnell ood and enjo the ne t mile of dead straight alking on a ver ell-maintained access road. n most cases ou ill have the hole road to ourself a art from the occasional dog alker or farm vehicle. t s ver eaceful a art from the Great orth oad in the far distance and a great chance to stride out on an enjo a le dead straight mile a rare occurrence indeed.

hen ou reach the end of the straight track ou ill see o er ake to our right and then ort enr ake to our left ith the e on mous oathouse on its est shore. Take the left hand turn o the track at the sign ost and ou ill lose sight of the lake ehind the ood for a minute or t o. ut at the northern edge of the ood ou get an even etter vie of the oathouse.

After that follo the inding track alongside the orth rook on ogg ground until ou reach the em ankment. Go u the ste s and then ou have a choice. ou can either dro do n the other side and follo the inding ath through the golf course and then ast rook arm ack into Greetham on heatsheaf ane.

r ou can turn left and alk along the farm track for one mile until ou reach the right hand turn at the lone mature tree and then follo the ath north all the a ack into Greetham here it joins heatsheaf ane just efore the heatsheaf u .

The are oth good o tions although the second does involve some uite ogg fields as discovered on m recent recce. n alance the golf course route is ro a l more interesting and etter underfoot in the etter months of the ear.

The Wheatsheaf in Greetham and The Plough are both excellent.

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ACTIVE INFO

When nearby Kendrew Barracks was RAF Cottesmore, it hosted the Tri National Tornado Training Establishment (TTTE) in the 1980s/90s, a collaboration between UK, Germany and Italy. The Oktoberfests were legendary. I can testify because we lived on the base from 1987 to 1989 (between the ages of 10 and 12 for me), when my dad was stationed there. Halcyon days.

START/ FINISH

Essential information

WHERE TO PARK

Anywhere responsible in Greetham.

DISTANCE

Five and a half miles.

HIGHLIGHTS

Fort Henry and the absolutely straight mile on a peaceful estate road.

LOWLIGHTS

On my recent recce it was pretty boggy on the last stretch across the fields back into Greetham, but you can take the golf course option instead.

REFRESHMENTS

The Wheatsheaf and The Plough in Greetham are both excellent. Or you can pop into the golf club or extend your walk into Exton and visit the Fox & Hounds.

DIFFICULTY RATING

Three paws; it’s largely excellent underfoot, with no stiles, but can be muddy on the alternative option last stage back into Greetham. And it’s more than five miles, so a proper two hour walk.

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE

You are unlikely to see any livestock on this route, but it is a conservation area with ground nesting birds so control is vital. The North Brook offers the opportunity for fresh water.

For your own safety and navigation make sure you have an OS map with you when you go out walking. You won’t regret it.

The boathouse at Fort Henry.

Active Kids

Laxton celebrates its golden anniversary

Laxton Junior School based in Oundle turns 50 this year and they are planning to celebrate

THIS ACADEMIC YEAR LJS is proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Originally located on North Street, now home to Oundle School’s English department, it moved to its current premises on East Road in 2002. Its modern campus, that has evolved and developed with the times, is testament to the visionary leadership of former headmistress, the late Miss Sue Thomas. Recent enhancements such as the beautiful woodland garden and the redesigned EYFS learning space demonstrates the school’s dedication to delivering a stimulating and forward-looking education as well as a genuine understanding of how different children learn and what sparks their interests.

As part of its 50th birthday celebrations, LJS is hosting a garden party on the afternoon of Monday 6 May. The event is open to staff, pupils and parents (old and new) to come and celebrate. If you have been part of LJS’s history, the school would love to reconnect with you. Please scan the QR code and fill out the form to learn more and join the party.

Laxton Junior School (LJS) is an independent day school for children aged 4–11 and an intrinsic part of Oundle School. It is an incredibly happy school with a culture built upon the premise that happiness breeds success.

Head, Lydia Waller, explains: ‘Children learn best when they experience a genuine sense of care and are appreciated for their unique qualities. At LJS, our philosophy is not just a set of words, but a guiding principle that shapes every aspect of our educational journey. It is rooted in a deep belief that every child is a unique individual with boundless potential, and it is our responsibility to nurture and unlock that, empowering each child to become the best version of themselves.’

LJS has small class sizes and its responsive curriculum is tailored

for each child. Pupils are encouraged to embrace their individuality and explore their passions; LJS children take risks, dream big, and pursue their aspirations with unwavering determination.

The school takes pride in its strong academic record, with the vast majority of children progressing to Oundle School at age 11, but happiness and emotional wellbeing are equally valued. It is a school where everyone feels known and secure and where creative minds are inspired.

If you want to learn more about life at LJS contact admissions to arrange a visit. The next reception open day is on Saturday 18 May. They look forward to seeing you.

www.laxtonjunior.org.uk

admissions@laxtonjunior.org.uk 01832 277275

Discover The power of play

Experience the wonder of discovery through the eyes of your child at our tailored Reception Open Day on

Saturday 18th May

Meet and chat to our team of EYFS experts while your child is absorbed in a range of fun play activities, all created with pre-schoolers in mind.

01832 277159 admissions@laxtonjunior.org.uk www.laxtonjunior.org.uk

Scan the QR code to register your interest.

Follow us at @laxtonjuniorschool

Experience. An Oakham Education.

Join us at one of our Open Events to discover more about our high-achieving, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 10-18.

For more information scan the QR code or visit: oakham.rutland.sch.uk

@oakhamschool @Oakham School @OakhamSchool @OakhamSch

Charity Easter egg hunt

CHILDREN AGED ONE to six are invited to the Witham Hall charity Easter egg hunt on Saturday 16 March from 10-12pm. This event is open to the public. Families will follow the bunny trail through Witham Hall’s historic grounds, collecting clues along the way to earn a sweet treat at the end of the adventure.

Families can also enjoy coffee and cake in the pop-up café. Tickets are £3 per child, adults are free. All proceeds support children’s cancer charity, Tommy’s Arc. Visit www.withamhall. com For enquiries, please contact community@withamhall.com

Stamford School are U16 East Midlands regional champs

IN AN OUTSTANDING display of skill and teamwork, the Stamford School under 16 netball team emerged victorious at the East Midlands Netball regional tournament in February. This means they will proudly represent the East Midlands at the upcoming National Schools tournament in March.

On the same day, and a first for Stamford having three teams at the regionals, the U19 and U14 teams made it through to the cup semi-final, with both teams narrowly losing out on a place at Nationals. All teams played some incredible netball throughout the day and should be proud of their efforts.

Two students receive Oxbridge offers

TWO SIXTH FORM students at the Stamford Schools are celebrating Oxbridge offers. Students Sophie and Alex have both received offers to read law and chemistry, respectively.

Mr Phelan, the Principal of Stamford Schools, comments: ‘These students have worked tirelessly to prepare for their Oxbridge examinations, and it is testament to their hard work and dedication that they have been rewarded with these offers. They should be immensely proud of their achievements. My congratulations to them.’

Oxford offer

LEICESTER HIGH SCHOOL for Girls is delighted to announce that Year 13 pupil Florence has been offered a place to study at Oxford University. Florence has been accepted into St John’s College where she will read French and Italian.

Mark Ryman, the head of sixth form at Leicester High expressed his pride, saying: ‘A huge well done to Florence. The application process for Oxford is known to be demanding, and her success reflects not only her remarkable efforts but also the exceptional teaching and mentoring she has received at our school.’

Saturday 16th March 2024

10am - 12 noon Witham

For children aged one to six Please visit Withamhall.com to book, tickets £3 per child

All proceeds to support children’s cancer charity, Tommy’s Arc

Hill, PE10 0JJ

PIONEER ARCHERY

KETTON SPORTS & COMMUNITY CENTRE

CHILDREN AGED 9-13

Music success for Oakham

OAKHAM SCHOOL PUPILS Evie and Joshua have won two of the three major prizes awarded at the finals of this year’s Nottingham Young Musician of the Year competition.

Soprano Evie sang superbly to win the Nottingham young singer of the year in the vocal part of the competition. Horn player Joshua excelled in the instrumental competition, winning the special Bluecoat Singers prize to add to his title of Nottingham young brass player of the year. Both pupils performed at the Djanogly Recital Hall at the University of Nottingham in a hotly contested final adjudicated by professional singer Marcus Farnsworth.

Congratulations to both musicians on their brilliant achievement, and for representing Oakham School music with such distinction.

American scholarship for Oakham pupil

OAKHAM SCHOOL YEAR 13 pupil and talented hockey player Ash has been awarded a prestigious scholarship to study at Ohio University in the USA when she leaves school in the summer.

Ash is the star goalkeeper of the Oakham girls’ 1st XI hockey team and has played a pivotal role in their successful season. Ash will combine her passion for hockey with her academic studies when she embarks on an undergraduate degree in biological sciences with a specialism in neuroscience at Ohio University.

Ash said: ‘Studying in the US appeals to me as there are so many opportunities to pursue my hockey at a higher level whilst continuing my academic studies.’

We wish Ash the best of luck in her future career.

Charity match

STAMFORD SIXTH FORM 1st XI girls’ hockey team recently faced the 1st XV boys’ rugby team at Wothorpe Sports Centre. The match was for two charities, MOVE (Against Cancer) and the Matt Hampson Foundation. It was a hard-fought game, but the boys emerged victorious with a 3-2 win. More importantly the sixth form students have raised over £1,500 through shirt sales, Go Fund Me, and refreshment sales on the evening.

Super supplements

Collagen and Vitamin B12 are vital to keep us fit and healthy

YOU MAY HAVE alread heard a out the enefits of collagen on skin, hair and nail health but maybe are less familiar with how it can support the rest of the body. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body: it provides the foundation of our bones, joints, tendons and muscles. As e age our odies ecome less e cient at roducing collagen hich can lead to a slower recovery time. Our natural supply of collagen starts to deplete at a rate of 1.5% every year, falling by as much as the time e reach the age of .

Tough orkout session eeling sore and sti t could e ecause of de leting collagen levels hich over time causes in ammation and muscle damage. If you’re looking to recover faster after your workout and u our fitness game su lementing ith ngenious Active can su ort muscle recover hilst oosting strength and fitness. Whether you’re a gym-goer, yogi, athlete or simply always on-the-go, supplementing with protected collagen is the ideal way to help build and repair the muscles, tendons, ligaments and cartilage that are stressed during exercise.

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Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in a variety of foods including meat eggs and dair as ell as fortified foods like breakfast cereals and plant-based milk. B12 supplements are often recommended for eo le ho are at risk of deficienc including vegetarians and vegans, older adults and people with certain medical conditions.

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a number of important roles in the body, from reducing tiredness and fatigue, to nervous system support, energy metabolism, immune support and s chological function. This vitamin enefits our od in im ressive ways, such as by boosting your energy, improving your memory, and helping prevent heart disease. It is also necessary for converting food into energy and helping to maintain a healthy digestive system.

Novomins high strength Vitamin B12 Gummies are registered with the egan ociet and are ver e ective ith 1 mcg of itamin 12 per serving, making it easy to meet your daily recommended intake. These high strength Vegan Vitamin B12 Gummies are a delicious and convenient way to get your daily dose of this important nutrient. Although they taste sweet and delicious, they are made with only natural sugars, and the content is very low. They also contain only natural avours and colours as ell as eing vegan gluten-free and non-GMO - no nasty additives.

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Yoga for all

Yoga is inclusive and for everyone, explains instructor Marleni. Mary meets her

IT’S VERY EASY to initially be intimidated by yoga and those who practise it. You see these super bendy ladies (and men) all over Instagram striking poses that only a contortionist could manage hich turns ou o com letel making ou think there is no a can do that. ut don t let it intimidate ou oga is much more than a ret el looking ose and the enefits start as soon as ou take a sim le intentional reath. And remem er even those su er end poseurs started somewhere.

Marleni who is based in Stamford is a great advocate for yoga. She elieves it is for ever one and ever one ill enefit from it ho ever unfit in e i le or old ou are. And she s right. ee ing moving is vital use it or lose it a lies ver much here.

Yoga and Marleni fell in love over 20 years ago and for the last 10 ears she has een teaching it initiall in audi and since Covid ack in Stamford as well as being a private carer (she gets her clients to do yoga too). Marleni doesn’t take group classes but teaches 1:1 in people’s houses and small private groups. Her clients vary in age and a ilit and she travels all over the area to teach them. ver one should do a it of oga it is so good for all of us she told me. t hel s ith reathing strength e i ilit muscle tone and much more. strongly believe that yoga must be inclusive and can be adapted for all abilities. I’ve broken the stereotype and am far from intimidating.’ (she isn’t).

Interestingly some of her clients are pensioners and they really do rea the enefits including those ith Al heimer s. o much so that she is now running classes in some of the care homes and residences locall ith classes t ice a eek. Clients sit on chairs ut still do all the moves and they have noticed huge improvements in their range of movement e i ilit and strength. t is also hel ing them sociall as many of them live alone so it brings them together.’

Some of Marleni’s 1:1 clients are completely new to yoga so book eight lessons with her (number nine is free) to get an introduction to the disci line learn the moves and all that goes ith it. arleni teaches them the basics and how to do the poses to the best of their a ilit and after her nine lessons the have gained the confidence to join a grou class. This makes sense as it can e di cult joining a class as a complete beginner and it’s important you get the moves right in the first lace.

This human dynamo that is Marleni is also an open water all year round s immer does triathlons runs alks and addle oards in her free time. And of course ractices oga too. he s arm friendl and encouraging and as far from intimidating as she could be; the erfect erson to introduce ou to oga hatever our age or fitness level.

Contact Marleni on 07444 069677 or yogawithmarleni@gmail.com Instagram @yogawithmarleni

There’s lots going on at grassroots level this month. Jeremy Smithson-Beswick tells us more

STAMFORD RUGBY CLUB is having a season to remember, with their first challenging hard for romotion and the omen s side as e shall see doing even etter. The men moved to ithin si oints of second laced arket os orth after a onus- oint - in at tock ood ark. an eard ith no less than four tries and arle iches ave artin and ca tain ack ones also chi ing in. es ite t o some hat harsh ello cards that reduced them to thirteen la ers at one stage their defence as just as im ressive and resolute

in its determination to kee a rare clean sheet. ith a num er of fresh ne faces having recentl made first team de uts and erforming ell it s going to e an e citing end to the season.

As for the omen the ere nine oints clear at the to of their ta le ith three fi tures still to la ahead of hat looked to e the title decider against their closest rivals ansfield. The latter had t o games in hand so tamford could still e caught ut their res onse to the challenge could not have een more em hatic running a a ith a 2- victor on a famous da for each and

ever la er. As a result the record no sho s ack-to ack romotions for this ne l esta lished side. verall it couldn t have gone much etter since the ver start hich it feels like e re orted on onl esterda . ell done one and all.

akham fans can onl o serve the success of their closest rivals ith env . Their o n men s first team is third from ottom of the ta le having had the indignit of tamford doing the dou le over them this cam aign again . adl this state of a airs seems to e ecoming the norm ith aks having to rel for league survival on t o teams eing even orse than them in their division for a fe seasons no . hear some grum les of discontent from lo al follo ers ho feel the current clu management set-u is too focused on mini and colt rug at the e ense of the first team. There s al a s a alance to e dra n ut man seasoned su orters and long-term servants of the clu feel the alance is rong.

A fe miles across the to n from the rug ground tamford aniels C have had a frustrating time of it of late. t had seemed momentum as ith them as the ushed for a la -o osition ut disa ointing dra s against relegation threatened ud ur and fifteenth- laced tour ridge have seen them tum le do n the ta le to seventh. t s not game over et ut the are no si oints o the all-im ortant fifth lace al eit ith a game in hand. till there s nearl a third of the season to go and ne signing Callum Chettle is a cause for o timism. The midfielder joins from uneaton and has een a target of manager Graham rur for some time.

o such angst over at ar orough To n C ho are ing high and to of the ile. A recent 2- victor over ed orth nited the goals from Tendai aire and osh alsh made it si ins from si ut the ll have to maintain form like that to ensure automatic romotion as oth alding nited and Anste omads are reathing eagerl do n their neck.

The clu s a ha shi ho ever ith oth manager itch Austin and his assistant ave ta recentl agreeing to an 1 month e tension to their e isting contracts hich

ties both of them to the club for a total of three more years. Chairman Pete Dougan called it ‘fantastic news’ and called them a management team that ‘has the best interest of the club and the town at heart.’ For his part, Austin confessed himself delighted and said ‘we will work hard to repay their faith and do our utmost to make the people of arket ar orough roud. ta added as a local lad, it’s great to see the club progress and hopefully we’ll have lots more good times ahead.’

Deepings Rangers are also in the mix, in their case in Counties Premier North. They’re three oints from the la o ositions after winning four on the trot with a derby against Melton to come. Win that one and they’ll displace those rivals just above them so that’s going to be crunch time.

Believe it or not, the cricket season is nearly upon us and net sessions, both indoor and out, are already underway at most clubs. The first ne s item of the ear goes to akham Town who’ve been proud to announce that three of their alumni will be part of Leicestershire CCC’s youth set up for the coming season. Many congratulations to ai e eadle and Ale Green ho continue at the Academy, and to Dev Shah who’s been newly appointed to the Emerging Players’ Programme. Leicestershire called Alex ‘one of the standout performers in the Academy in recent seasons’ and noted that ai e son of former ngland international Dean) is ‘a right-arm fast bowler with the ability to swing the ball both ways’. Let’s hope great things await all three of them.

‘Stamford and Rutland Junior Netballers have been in touch to tell us of their experiences as England mascots at the Netball Nations Cup.’

Stamford and Rutland Junior Netballers have been in touch to tell us of their experiences as England mascots at the Netball Nations Cup. T ent five of their seven to eleven ear olds went to the tournament in Leeds to join the adult internationals from Uganda, New Zealand, England, and Australia – appearing on court with their heroines before matches ‘chatting, waving and smiling to the crowd and representing their club and the East

Midlands with pride’ reports one of the outfit s coaches Tina a ers.

Although ngland lost the final to Australia it asn t for lack of e ort from their mascots who were ‘cheering on their idols, taking part in a Mexican wave and leading chants of Go oses Go throughout . ell done girls, and a shout out to the whole club, it being an undoubted honour to be chosen in this way by the English Netball Association.

On your bike!

This month Gary Waterfall enjoys a 31mile route with 1,500 feet of climb starting from Wymondham Windmill.

START OUT FROM Wymondham Windmill (where there is plenty of parking) and head south out of the village through Edmonthorpe and Teigh before taking a left turn in Ashwell to climb the edge into Cottesmore village. This is the first of the two relatively large climbs on the route.

Join the road through Cottesmore and on to Greetham and then take the first left at the A1 roundabout and enjoy the mostly downhill gradient here. Carry on enjoying the gentle gradient towards South Witham and then head north to Woolsthorpe along the northerly undulating road. Word of advice, pace yourself here as the undulations seem to continue for longer than you think.

In Woolsthorpe turn left and now it’s mostly uphill. Turn right and then keep going until you reach the T-junction at mile 21 to head to Hungerton. This is the second of the testing climbs. The climb continues until you reach Saltby which is the highest point of the ride at 500 feet. From here enjoy the undulating ride home through Sproxton until you get back to Wymondham Mill where you can enjoy refreshments at the Tea Rooms which are always good. And, of course a browse round Windmill Wheels which is a haven for us cycling enthusiasts and packed full of temptation.

https://www.strava.com/ routes/3180949273477278294

Or scan the QR code

START / FINISH

WYMONDHAM

EDMONTHORPE

ASHWELL

TEIGH

ROUTE

Distance: 31.42 mi

Elevation: 1,571 ft

STRETTON

GREETHAM

COTTESMORE

SALTBY

SPROXTON

SKILLINGTON

HUNGERTON

SOUTH WITHAM

NORTH WITHAM

WOOLSTHORPEBY-COLSTERWORTH

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