Carlisle Guide Issue 51: March / April 2020 by Guide Media Group

MARCH / APRIL 2020

WWW.CUMBRIAGUIDE.CO.UK

CARLISLE CELEBRATING CARLISLE AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

EASTER ROUNDUP CELEBRATE LIKE IT’S 1945 HISTORY REVEALED AT THE GUILDHALL FEATURES

HEALTH & BEAUTY

FOOD & DRINK

PICK ME UP

I’M FREE MOTORING & SPORT

WHAT’S ON

The

Carlisle Guide

A Word from the Editor

MARCH / APRIL 2020

Managing Director Stephen Murphy

T: 01946 448 001 stephen@theguidemediagroup.com

Office Admin Manager Steffany Clarke T: 01946 448 001 steffany@theguidemediagroup.com

Creative Director Mike Proud T: 01946 448 001 mike@theguidemediagroup.com

There’s so much happening over the next couple of months that this issue of The Guide is bursting at the seams. Hot cross buns are already on the supermarket shelves so it should come as no surprise that Easter is on the way and we highlight everything that’s great about a fabulous four day bank holiday weekend in Cumbria. Art lovers will be delighted to hear one of Cumbria’s finest, Alan Stones, is bringing an exhibition to the Contemporary Arts Gallery in the Old Fire Station and budding photographers will pick up some great tips from our photographer in focus, Matthew Turner, who has a knack for capturing the ordinary and turning it into something magical. Speaking of the familiar we pay a visit to the Guildhall Museum. It’s one of Carlisle’s oldest buildings and many of us walk past it every day without ever paying it any attention but Tullie House opens it up one day a week. With free entry, it’s a fascinating insight into centuries of Carlisle’s history. Spring is here and it’s a time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, there are a wealth of lovely places right on our doorstep and we take some time out at Drybeck Farm. The campsite on the banks of the River Eden recently won an award for their luxury glamping accommodation but we realise not everyone likes the quiet life and we highlight the festivals taking place in an around Cumbria. With new acts being announced every day it’s time to mark the dates in your calendar and get those tickets booked. People can party a bit closer to home when the first bank holiday comes around in May. It marks the 75th anniversary of VE and the end of the war in Europe. Communities will come together and celebrate like it’s 1945 with street parties, fetes, fairs and marches.

Feature Writer Craig Wishart T: 01946 448 001 craig@theguidemediagroup.com

Our fashion feature highlights a Carlisle tailor who built an international reputation while our food section recognises a Sicilian family who made Carlisle their home 60 years ago and recognises the next generation who pay tribute to their past and offer Carlisle a taste of the old country in their resturant. I told you we had a packed edition. Craig

FACEBOOK Advertising Paul Seath T: 01946 448001 paul@theguidemediagroup.com

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Published by EOL Publications, The Guide Media Group, Phoenix Enterprise Centre, Jacktrees Road, Cleator Moor, Cumbria, CA25 5BD. All feature articles and advertising is copyright of EOL Publishing. Photography - Kerry Clark and our wonderful online contributors Cover - Matthew James Turner. See page 12 for more of Matthew’s work

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CONTENTS F E AT U R E S 06

THE GUILDHALL

E S C A P E T O D RY B E C K

A L L A N S TO N E S

P H OTO G R A P H E R IN FOCUS

VILLAGE HALL EVENTS

E A S T E R RO U N D U P

H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y 28

BRIDGET FOSTER

STEED BESPOKE

FOOD & DRINK 34

A S L I C E O F S I C I LY

R A S P B E R RY CRANACHAN

C O C K TA I L S

M OTO R I N G A N D S P O RT 50

CARLISLE UNITED

W I G TO N M OTO R C L U B

W H AT ’ S O N 54

E D I TO R ’ S P I C K

LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

F E S T I VA L RO U N D U P E

MEGACON

W E S T E R N WA L K S

The Carlisle Guide

F E AT U R E

Step Back In Time

hen you constantly see something it can soon fade into the background, become a bit commonplace and we rarely take time to really take it in.

We all know Carlisle is a historic city but sometimes it can be hard to find 2000 years of history relevant as we rush to work, pick up the shopping or grab a bite to eat. The Guildhall is a perfect example of something we take for granted because if you take even a second to have a good look, it’s obvious that it’s old…. very old. It dates from around the late 14th century and the way its upper floors project out over the street is typical for timberframed structures of the time and gives an indication of what medieval Carlisle looked like. The Guildhall is a Grade One Ancient Monument and one of the oldest buildings in the city. Within its walls, Carlisle’s history was shaped and it played a significant role in the lives of our ancestors. For most of its existence, it functioned as an area for trading. The earliest illustrations of the Guildhall are from the 19thcentury and with scant documentation of its construction, there is no evidence the lower floor was originally left open but many similar buildings were at the time, so we can only assume that the Guildhall was.. We can only wonder what Carlisle’s bedraggled traders in the muddy streets below would make of the modern restaurant dishing out exotic foreign fayre.

“...the building itself, which is rather wonderful with its wonky floors and low doorways.” Used by guilds for meetings and other purposes, Carlisle relied on items produced by its resident weavers, bookbinders, painters, masons, leatherworkers, embroiderers, cobblers and candlemakers. It offers a fascinating insight into the ancient city and the good news is Tullie House opens up The Guildhall Museum one day a week, for free, so anyone can have a look around. 6

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“When you take a tour there are three different areas of interest,” said Claire Sleightholm, who is assistant curator at Tullie House. “There are relics from the civic life of Carlisle and its politics. The second part is dedicated to the guilds themselves and you can see the individual rooms as they were used. And the final part is simply the building itself, which is rather wonderful with its wonky floors and low doorways.” Much of the early timber-work survives, as do wattle-and-daub internal walls, the uneven floors tend to bounce slightly and many doors are fitted around the wooden support beams which is captivating. Looking through the windows over the market area you can only wonder how many other sets of eyes had taken in the view below. The museum houses items from Carlisle’s history, like the ceremonial Mace, which was intended to represent the authority of a sovereign or high official. During the reigns of Charles II (1660-1685) and James II (1685-1689), the monarchy attempted to increase its control over independent towns like Carlisle. James believed in the absolute power of the monarchy and he replaced Carlisle’s Royal Charters with a new version which gave the Crown greater control.

It’s free and well worth taking time out of your day to appreciate a building that’s been the beating heart of Carlisle for centuries.

To symbolise Carlisle’s submission to Royal power, a grand mace was constructed. The golden ornament was merely symbolic but it’s meaning was derived from the original weapon and the message was clear that dissent would not be tolerated. Another fascinating item is the huge iron-bound Uniment Chest that dates from around 1400 and was used by the city to store documents and money. It’s intriguing to think how many records of our ancestors were kept under lock and key. The doors to The Guildhall are thrown open every Thursday (12 pm to 4 pm) from the start of April through until the end of September. Unfortunately due to the nature of the buildings and the two flights of stairs the upper floors are not accessible for everyone.

The Carlisle Guide

F E AT U R E

Fun-Fuelled Festivals, Relaxing Getaways or Special Celebrations

ince they opened Drybeck Farm campsite in 2011, Paula and Steve Roberts have worked hard to create a piece of paradise in the heart of the Eden Valley near Armathwaite.

Initially, the couple ran a smallholding alongside the camping but Storm Desmond forced them to examine how they used their land which is nestled right on the banks of the Eden River. “The barn was flooded and dealing with livestock was a real problem,” said Steve. “We had to rethink and decided to focus solely on our eco-friendly glamping accommodation.” Their efforts were recognised in Camping and Glamping Awards last year when Drybeck Farm was awarded top honours for the North West in the Glamping category. It’s not hard to see why when you lay your eyes on the two wooden cabins, handmade yurt and shepherd’s wagon set in their stunning riverside location. All feature lavish interiors filled with vintage furniture and soft furnishings. Wood-burning stoves will chase away the evening chill and private wood-fired hot tubs add further luxury for people looking to get back to basics. Drybeck Farm is less than half an hour drive from Carlisle so you don’t need to travel far for your rural retreat. Make time to slow down with countryside walks or wild swimming and spend your evenings soaking in the hot tub or lazing by a roaring fire listening to owls and the splash of fish jumping in the river. This is a site for intrepid folk who like to get back to nature but don’t see why that means they shouldn’t be able to have a hot shower. Drybeck is also for the environmentally conscious too with quirky compost loos and shower water recycled for use in the gardens. An exclusive campsite is available which also makes the most of the charming location, although the gypsy caravan, Evelyn, might suit people who don’t fancy a tent. “We’re delighted with the glamping award,’ ” explained Steve. “But Drybeck Farm is always looking to improve and I’m really excited about the next phase which we launch this spring. We have always organised live music and we’ve been a favourite destination as a unique venue for festivals, special celebrations and events but this year we’re taking that a step further with renovations to our beautiful historic barns.”

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The barns are open plan and suited for a large or small gathering, the quirky bar adds a real charm that will wow your guests and the upstairs lounge area is perfect for more intimate occasions. While a dance floor, outdoor seating area and large bonfire space will add to the rustic experience. “We aren’t trying to disguise the fact that your memorable event will be in a converted barn,” said Steve. “But it will be packed with character, in a rural setting, you’ll never forget. Previous events have used marquees and this is still an option too. We can also help with everything from marquee hire, toilet facilities, catering and bar hire as well as securing Temporary Event Notices from the local council.”

Upcoming Events at Drybeck Farm Thieving Magpies

12 April, Easter Sunday Rock, Rhythm and Blues with a degree of reggaefixation.

Supfest

Whether it is a small gathering for a few friends or booking the entire farm for over 300 people, Drybeck provides a setting for a truly memorable celebration, birthday, family gathering, music event or outdoor sporting event. Relaxing country break or a lively gathering? What could be better than watching the sunset - or sunrise the next day from your own private hot tub?

May 22nd - 25th A stand-up paddleboarding festival about family, friends, camping, live music, adventure, race games and competitions.

Drove - T - Drink Rally

29th - 31st May This farm bash rally is a classic and custom bike show.

Muma Moonshine Music and Arts Festival Festival

31 July - 3 August A woman-led and centred festival who create a safe, family-friendly space for LGBTQI+ people and friends.

Visit www.drybeckfarm.co.uk to book a patch of paradise, call 07377587941 to discuss your big celebration or follow them on Social media @drybeckfarmglamping for the latest information. The Carlisle Guide

Alan Stones In The Landscape

elebrated Cumbrian artist Alan Stones is headed to The Carlisle Contemporary Arts Gallery at The Old Fire Station.

The gallery is a co-operative of nine painters, potters, crafters and sculptors who support each other year-round but they regularly host guest artists and offer emerging artists a chance to show their work too. “Alan is our monthly guest artist,” explained gallery resident Marilyn Laugesen. “But we’re also proud we can display works from local emerging talent. It’s not just students, it can be someone who’s been painting for a long time but never had the chance to show. It’s important people get that opportunity and it can be a thrill when they get the chance to display alongside some of Cumbria’s biggest artists, which is why we’re thrilled Alan Stones will feature throughout April.” Alan’s exhibition ‘In the Landscape’ is a collection of lithographs and paintings: “I am delighted to have been invited to show my work,” said Alan. “It’s a small exhibition but one I’m looking forward to presenting. The nice thing is I have so few opportunities to show a group of rarely seen paintings alongside my more popular lithographs.” 10

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“If someone who feels they don’t know anything about art stands in front of one of my pictures I really value their opinion” Alan graduated from St. Martin’s School of Art in 1971 and has worked full-time as an artist ever since. His works hang across the globe and he’s gained a huge following but he’s thrilled to show at a gallery whose mission is to bring the public closer to the artist: “If someone who feels they don’t know anything about art stands in front of one of my pictures I really value their opinion. They cut through all the guff and tell me what they relate too, even if they can’t say why. It’s important for people not to be inhibited in their response to art, even if they don’t like it, those are honest feelings. As an artist, I’m only trying to entertain myself with things important to me and hopefully that appeals to other people. I’ve been trying to work out what stimulates my lithographs and the best I can come up with is human endeavour. The scene is full of space and it feels that every one of those people is pushing themselves to just go a bit further and see what comes of it.

The paintings are a bit different, they depict individual people in the landscape - each psychologically in their own private world. While there is often a suggestion of a narrative, sometimes I haven’t got one in mind and I’m just trying to stimulate my imagination. I like to focus on something happening in ordinary life and I generally find an incident within a larger scene important. In ‘The Playground’ the couple are having a bad day but the kids are getting on with things.” The Contemporary Arts Gallery is a great asset for Carlisle, it’s so close to the city centre and is handy for visitors and locals alike. Take a moment from your shopping, sit down, grab a bite to eat or a drink and wander through the gallery while you’re there. “People are made to feel welcome when they come in,” said Marilyn. “We’re happy to chat with visitors and talk about the work or the artist. We’re here to support each other and it’s about connecting people with art, we want the gallery to be less intimidating for people.”

The gallery is open Wednesday through to Saturday from 10 to 4 and Sundays 12 to 4 and Alan’s exhibition will run from the 1st April until the 30th. His work is also displayed in Edwin Talbot Picture Framing & Art Gallery in Crosby Street, so if you think one of Alan’s lithographs would take pride of place on one of your walls make sure you visit them. Visit www.ccagallery.co.uk for upcoming exhibition information and you’ll find more of Alan’s work at www.alanstones.co.uk Insert picture courtesy of Sam Toolsie The Carlisle Guide

F E AT U R E

Matthew James Turner Photographer In Focus I f you follow us on social media, you’ll know that we love showcasing local talent.

This issue we cast our eye over the work of Carlisle based, Matthew James Turner, who you may have seen roaming the fells or patiently waiting for that perfect moment on the streets of Carlisle with his Sony A7R. It takes skill to capture the beauty of nature but it takes a great eye and expertise to transform an everyday cityscape into an image that makes you wonder why you never noticed it before. The product photographer and graphics assistant has spent the past five years seriously honing his photography skills but his advice has less to do with technical instructions and is more about the photographers’ state of mind: “We are often impatient and want to know everything straight away but it’s important to naturally progress. I’m selftaught and it’s taken a long time to get to where I’m at but it’s rewarding to see improvement. Photographs don’t all have to be rigidly planned and executed, many of my best opportunities cropped up when I least expected them but there have been occasions where I’ve missed out because I didn’t have my camera with me, so it’s always good to have your equipment to hand. Finally, enjoy the moment! Photographers (including myself) are fixated on capturing the perfect picture that they forget to enjoy the moment, remember to appreciate the scene with your own eyes. Find Matthew on Instagram @m_j_turner_photography and Facebook @MJTurnerPhotography or visit www.mjturnerphotography.com

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Share your pictures with us on Facebook @thecumbriaguide

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Celebration for the nation

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want as many organisations and individuals to get involved.â&#x20AC;?

hen VE Day dawns on 8th May it will mark 75 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Victory in Europe Day celebrates the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on 8 May 1945, it ended a six-year war that had taken a heavy toll on Europe and left Britain reeling with a staggering 383,700 British military casualties, which was 6% of the adult male population, while 67,200 civilians also lost their lives. 75 years later and most Britons have never experienced the destruction wrought by war first hand. We can barely begin to imagine what life was like with the Luftwaffe patrolling the skies, fierce fighting across the channel and a very real fear of invasion. When victory was announced, it was no surprise that well over a million people hit the streets to celebrate. In London, crowds massed in Trafalgar Square and up the Mall to Buckingham Palace, where King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, accompanied by Prime Minister Winston Churchill, appeared on the balcony of the palace before cheering crowds. 14

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The 75th anniversary provides the nation with an opportunity to reflect on the enormous sacrifice, courage and determination of people who saw us through this terrifying period. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a day for communities to come together and celebrate as they did 75 years ago. The early May bank holiday weekend, from 8 - 10 May plays host to a three-day celebration. Bank holiday Monday has been shifted to VE day and not only has the Government designated Friday the 8th as the bank holiday they have also extended licensing hours and encourage towns, parishes, cities and communities to join in - or help create - a raft of festivities across the nation to mark the historic event. Moving a bank holiday is a very rare event, the last time it happened was back 1995 and that was to mark the 50th anniversary of VE Day. Carlisle has a three-day programme of free events organised by the Royal British Legion, with support from Cumbria and Carlisle City Councils. The programme includes a military parade starting at the Castle at 2.30 pm on VE Day. Members of the Royal British Legion, military personnel, armed forces veterans and other uniformed organisations, such as the Scouts, Cadets and Guides are encouraged to take part in the parade to the Old Town Hall. A rousing Churchillian speech will follow as will a multi-faith service of hymns, thanksgiving and prayers while the Border Concert Band will accompany the service.

On Saturday, come along and enjoy a wonderful afternoon of World War Two music in the city centre. Performers include the Cliff Eland Band, the Carlisle Ukulele Band, Cindy the Forces Sweetheart, Dog on the Couch and the University of Cumbria’s Sorelli A Capella Group. On Sunday, a military parade from the Castle at 12.30 pm will be followed by a Service of Thanksgiving starting at 1 pm. It’s a bank holiday weekend so everyone will be in high spirits anyway but let’s get involved with our community and celebrate like it’s 1945. For further information about VE Day visit www.veday75.org

Major Rtd A P Chandler, representing the Royal British Legion, said: “Preparations are well underway for Carlisle’s VE Day events. We want as many organisations and individuals to get involved. With only a few months to go until VE Day, we urge people to contact us and to mark the dates in their diaries.” Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life in Carlisle Castle will also be part of the celebrations with events over the weekend but it’s worth keeping an eye out to find out what’s happening in your local area. There will be festivities dotted all over the county, in every town and village, from street parties and fetes to marches and memorial services. The Carlisle Guide

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Touring Performers Highlight Village Halls

ighlights Rural Touring Scheme is bringing a new season of shows to venues around Carlisle this Spring.

The scheme, and its village promoters, work together to bring small rural audiences some of the UK’s finest performers and theatre-makers with subsidized shows in their village halls. The Highlights Scheme was set up to work with isolated communities in the North Pennines that have suffered through long term economic downtun which has resulted in pockets of high unemployment, poor transport links, declining services and social isolation. But many rural communities across the north of England have seen their share of deprivation and the touring scheme now connects over 65 venues across Cumbria, County Durham and Northumberland. Esther Hingle is a project worker with Highlights and said the scheme is not about lamenting what is gone but celebrating everything that makes rural life so special: “Our events bring people together, providing drama, music and laughter. Some of the halls are small and intimate which lends to music or one-person shows while others are large and luxurious that can showcase some larger-scale theatre. 16

The Carlisle Guide

There are refreshments, raffles and often some of the most amazing cakes made by local people. Most of all there is always a warm welcome. It’s about friends, neighbours and familiar faces going out and having a great night out with top entertainment. What’s not to like? You don’t have a long journey to the city, there’s no accommodation to organise and you don’t have to worry about where to park the car. Just wander down the road and enjoy yourself.” Over 30 performances will be staged across Cumbria this year and eight of those will be coming to venues dotted outside Carlisle, reaching areas that big productions don’t. Village halls can often be at the heart of the community and sometimes we need to value what we have before we lose them. Get down to your local hall and support these live events, but most importantly, have a great night out right on your doorstep. We have listed booking information but all events can also be booked online at www.highlightsnorth.co.uk and some shows offer 2 for 1 tickets.

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Shoo Shoo Baby - The Great Safari Cabaret

22nd March Heads Nook Village Hall, Brampton An entertaining musical expedition with close harmony singing, parody lyrics and witty repartee all delivered with glamour and sparkle by three besequinned ladies with outrageous hairdos. The Great Cabaret Safari features water-tight harmonising across a wonderful array of original cabaret songs alongside music from composers including Verdi, Ed Sheeran, The Proclaimers and Ennio Morricone. Tickets: £10/ £4 child, Bookings: 01228 561147

The Peas - When 80s and 90s Pop Gets a Makeover

26th March Armathwaite Old School Hall The Peas take guilty pop pleasures and give them a classy reworking! From Rick Astley to the Spice Girls, they have a set list that could make you shudder but with a change of chords and a bluegrassy rock’nrolling acoustic disco beat, the songs feel like new. Ticket: £10/ £5 child, Bookings: 016974 72318

Slanjayvah Danza - 6 Feet, 3 Shoes

1st April Wetheral Village Community Hall 6 Feet, 3 Shoes is a celebration of friendship across borders, told through feisty, percussive flamenco, Scottish and contemporary dance; featuring an all-female cast of dancers and musicians, exhilarating live guitar and fiddle. Dance, storytelling and foot-stomping rhythms, both traditional and contemporary, come together to bring to life a story that resonates across generations and cultures. Tickets: £10 conc/ £5 child, Bookings: 01228 561543

Zoe Gilby - Zoe Gilby Quartet 14th May - Burgh by Sands Parish Hall Tickets: £10/ £6 conc/ £25 family, Bookings: 07593 038551 15th May - Hallbankgate Village Hall, Brampton Tickets: £9/ £5 child/ £25 family, Bookings: 016977 46574 or online

With her well-honed quartet of accomplished musicians, Tyneside’s leading jazz vocalist and songwriter, Zoe Gilby performs a great selection of songs, from her own original compositions and lyrical interpretations of jazz standards to an adventurous blend of contemporary composers from Kate Bush to Pink Floyd. Find more at www.highlightsnorth.co.uk or follow them on Facebook @highlightsruraltouringscheme or Twitter @highlightsevent

Have A Cracking Easter Take a break from the choccy eggs and make the most of your Easter weekend. Why not get away for a few nights, take a day trip or spend some quality time with the family? We might not get the sunny weather but that won’t put a dampener on a four day bank holiday weekend.

Go camping... Drybeck Farm Easter Weekend

Throw the kids in the car, pack the tent and take a break in the stunning countryside. Cumbria is far more than fells and valleys so you don’t have to travel far for something special. Drybeck Farm in Armathwaite is a lovely campsite nestled on the banks of the River Eden and a weekend here walking, lounging and laughing is time well spent. As an added bonus, The Thieving Magpies will keep campers happy Easter Sunday with their spin on rock, rhythm and blues and reggae. www.drybeckfarm.co.uk

Grab a bite to eat... Easter International Market Carlisle city centre, 9 - 13

The popular International Market is set to return to Carlisle city centre. Pick from favourite European cuisine, exotic dishes or stick with a taste of home and try some great British food and drink. Relax and take some time out in the Continental Street Bar where you can try an array of beers and wine. Green-fingered shoppers will not be disappointed either, as the popular Dutch plant seller will add a bit of greenery to the shopping precinct with a display of shrubs, plants, trees and bulbs.

Get ready for some horseplay... Carlisle Racecourse 11 April

Fancy a day at the races? There’s something for everyone on Easter Saturday as Carlisle Racecourse hosts Easter Family Fun Raceday. Adults will enjoy a great day of racing while kids under 17 go free. The Horseplay zone will be bustling with family-friendly activities like Crazy Golf, Easter Bunny, Arts and Crafts, Giant Inflatable Slide, Face Painting and School Sports Day to keep the little ones entertained while you can have a little flutter on the horses. Opens 11:40am, first race 1:40pm, last race 5:10pm. www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/carlisle 18

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Hit the trails... Whinlatter Forest Park Whinlatter Forest puts the mountain back into biking, with climbs to amazing views and rewarding descents. Gather the family, bring your friends and enjoy amazing graded mountain bike trails amidst a beautiful forest setting. The Gorse Cycle Trail is perfect for first-time bikers or young families, it sticks mostly to wellsurfaced forest roads, it’s wider but still gets you to the best parts of the forest. Of course, after your ride, there’s plenty of walks, the treetop adventure, Segway hire and Siskins Cafe. Visit www.forestryengland.uk/whinlatter

Take to the roads... The Cumbria Easter Rally 11 - 12 April

With over 250 vintage buses, lorries and assorted vehicles, the Cumbria Easter Rally is the UK’s biggest free rally of classic vehicles. The quintessential event returns to Kirkby Stephen and Brough over the Easter weekend. It’s family-friendly and located amongst some of the most picturesque locations in the Upper Eden Valley and Cumbrian North Pennines. The landscape adds further charm and the highlight is undoubtedly the road run through the fells as the brightly coloured vehicles head to town en masse. www.cumbriaeasterrally.com

Do whatever you want... This is Cumbria Cumbrians are in a position to enjoy the scenery the rest of the country is envious of. Pack everyone into the car and drive somewhere, anywhere… just go. We are minutes from England’s premier national park where the walking is free but if you’re worried about crowds then head along our hidden coastline. The Lake District Coast is beautiful and unknown to outsiders. It’s a local secret filled with charming villages and stunning beaches like Silecroft. Head out and make the most of your county. 19

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S TAY

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DINE

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RELAX

he Crown and Mitre is the perfect city centre venue to come to relax and enjoy some great food and drink.

We have a lovely traditional bar serving homemade meals daily along with our modern restaurant offering a wide variety of quality dishes. We also serve afternoon tea daily in our Mitre bar for just £14.95 per person, you can even add a glass of prosecco for just £4.95 per person extra. Advance bookings are required and tables can be booked from 12pm-5pm. This Mother’s Day you can treat your Mum to a well deserved three course meal in our restaurant, plus all Mum’s will receive a free gift! We will also

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C E L E B R AT E

be serving Easter Sunday lunch which is a great event for all the family plus all children will receive a free gift. To make a booking please contact our Events Team. Did you know that we have an indoor swimming pool? We offer memberships to all non-residents from 12 weeks to annual memberships. A great way to get into shape in your local community! Our pool is open from 7am-11pm each day and all of our members receive a 25% discount off food in our Mitre Bar and Peace and Plenty Restaurant. We have lots on offer at the hotel and we can even cater for your own private functions from weddings, christenings and birthdays to conferences, meetings and everything in between! Please contact our Events team to see what we can do for you!

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WEDDING I N A B OX C O M P L E T E PA C K A G E

O NLY

£4,995

This complete package includes 50 day guests & 100 evening guests, please contact our events team for full details and our new wedding brochure.

M OT H E R’S DAY Treat Mum to a well deserved three course meal in our restaurant £22.95 per person (£10.95 for children) plus FREE gift for all Mums! Contact our Events team to book

English Street, Carlisle, Cumbria CA3 8HZ

FOR BOOKINGS: 01228 525491 events@crownandmitre-hotel-carlisle.com

The Carlisle Guide

Say It With Flowers

here’s something a bit special about going to a florist that begins when the evocative scent of thousands of flowers envelops you.

Buying flowers from a florist is always more impressive than grabbing a last-minute bouquet as you walk out the supermarket door and if you really want to say I Love You, I’m Sorry, Congratulations, Happy Mothers Day, Good Luck or Thank You then your local florist will help convey a message that won’t quickly be forgotten. “Walking into a florist is like walking into a sweetie shop,” said Ann Smith, owner of Bay Tree Florists. “You have hundreds of flowers to pick from and customers can walk through the shop telling us what they want. You point, we pick and we’ll put them together to create your bespoke bouquet. Coming in helps us build a rapport and an understanding of what you are trying to say. If someone is buying a bouquet to say they’re sorry it’s always worth asking how sorry do they need to be? And if someone wants flowers for their 90-year-old aunt, I’ll ask how her eyesight is because if it’s not so good we’ll put in more scented flowers. A lot of people don’t think about those sorts of things but it’s our job and people keep returning because we are here to help.” 22

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But not everyone gets the time and Bay Tree Florist also offer a delivery service: “People can look on our website and get an idea of what they’re after,” said Ann. “Then give us a ring and leave the rest to us. We all know that chocolates and flowers go hand in hand so we’ve also formed a partnership with Castle Chocolates who make their handmade treats in Carlisle. Of course, we also have other gifts we can deliver too like balloons, silk flowers and soft toys. We can make up hampers, hanging baskets or outdoor planters. In the spring we also stock a lot of bedding plants. There’s a real trend for houseplants and we have a great range of easy to look after green plants. We are like a little mini gift and garden centre but on the high street and I like to think we have everyone’s gift and flower needs covered.” Bay Tree Florists has been run by Ann for the past seventeen years and in that time she has built a reputation for creativity, flair and quality.

B AY T R E E F L O R I S T S

“We work closely with suppliers in Holland who promptly deliver fresh plants and the highest quality graded flowers,”

“We work closely with suppliers in Holland who promptly deliver fresh plants and the highest quality graded flowers,” said Ann. “People are unaware that flowers are graded and cheap flowers picked straight off a shelf will not last long. Your local florist should know their craft, we are not here to stock lesser quality products because our reputation depends on it and we don’t want anything half-dead on our shop floor. We aim to provide the highest standards when it comes to customer satisfaction. Whether you need flowers for a funeral, weddings, mothers day or just generally want to be nice, Bay Tree Florist will help you get your message across. Visit www.baytreefloristscarlisle.com or give them a call on 01228 527286 to give someone special a surprise.

We can also order stock and have it delivered the next day, so if your mum has a favourite flower we’ll make sure she has it for mothers day. We have a wide range of seasonal plants and flowers along with vases and novelty pieces to suit any occasion.” The Carlisle Guide

International flavours hop into Carlisle this easter

he award-winning International Market returns to Carlisle City Centre over the Easter long weekend.

Over 30 traders will bring a real flavour of Europe and beyond to the city with wonderful foods along with a great range of crafts and gifts from around the world. A fantastic family-friendly atmosphere awaits as the pedestrianised area in the heart of the city transforms into a traditional market. It’s bound to delight shoppers and food lovers who have the opportunity to browse through stalls bursting with flavoursome delights and try something they wouldn’t normally find in Cumbria. Foodies will be tempted by the vast selection of international flavours to sample like Spanish Paella and Greek Gyros along with Chinese and Indian street foods to name a few. Stock up on your overseas essentials with a great selection of stalls selling fresh goods including olives, cheeses, bread and cakes. 24

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Have a wander and browse through the great craft stalls selling handmade jewellery, Fair Trade wooden furniture, carvings and unique gift ideas. Of course, the famous Dutch Flowers on Tour will brighten up the market with a huge array of shrubs, bulbs, beautiful plants, trees and great garden ornaments. Take some time out and unwind in the Street Bar with its selection of continental beers and wines. It’s the perfect interlude to your unique shopping experience or it’s a great way to end your global adventure. Bring the family along to the market and join in the fun. What could be better than a leisurely long weekend browsing through an exotic market? It’s like a mini-holiday... without the hassle of leaving home. Market opening hours - Thursday to Saturday 09:00 – 18:00, Sunday and Easter Monday 10:00 – 17:00

R . T. D . L

something to smile about

obbert Taggart has been a dental technician for over 37 years and has run a dental laboratory in Carlisle since 2003.

Floods forced a move to new premises in Rosehill Industrial Estate but the added space but meant Rob was able to open a new Denture Clinic which was designed to make your visit as comfortable as possible with off-road parking and disabled access. Over the years Rob has undergone extensive training in all aspects of advanced prosthetics and in August 2018 he gained a Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology from the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, after two years of study.

Our facilities are all under one roof and at your first appointment, we will listen to your concerns, likes and dislikes and provide you with a detailed description of our services so you can make an informed decision on how you would like to proceed. It’s important to me my clients are happy and it pleases me when we receive great feedback.” “I cannot praise highly enough the service I’ve received from Rob Taggart, I’m not new to dentures but this is the first time I’ve been treated by a Clinical Dental Technician who actually makes the dentures, rather than the Dentist. With Rob’s first-hand experience every part of the process was clearly explained and all questions answered. Extra care was taken to ensure a perfect fit; correct shade and much thought was given to cosmetic appearance. The whole experience was quick, efficient, friendly and after only 10 days I’ve had no discomfort whatsoever and can eat anything. I’d happily recommend Rob Taggart’s Dental Services to anyone. ” If it’s time to get your smile back visit www.roberttaggartdentallaboratory.co.uk for more information or give them a call on 01228 532444

As a Clinical Dental Technician, he can provide Quality Bespoke Dentures directly to the public and work on a prescription from a dentist when the remaining teeth are still present. “After talking to clients, I understand the importance of well-fitting dentures,” said Rob. “And I know how a lack of confidence in your dentures can affect your lifestyle. By combining the best materials available and years of technical experience, I believe we can help. The Carlisle Guide

H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

dressing for your shape By Alexandra Boardman

e are all different shapes and sizes and often it is frustrating to see one body shape in the glossy magazines showing the new season trends.

At Alexandra’s of Keswick, we believe you look your best in styles that suit your body shape and would like to share some tips to help you to look and feel great. It’s all about accentuating the positives.

APPLE BODY SHAPE

HOURGLASS BODY SHAPE

For those who generally have a heavier upper body with broad shoulders and bigger bust line, it feels like the weight gathers around the midriff. Celebrity Apple shapes include Liz Hurley and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Take attention away from the midriff and highlight your strengths, flaunt your legs or wear a V neckline to create an elongated illusion of the torso. Styles that look great on Apple Shapes include: • A-line coats or straight, knee-length trench styles without the waist belt • Flowy tunic tops over slimline trousers • Wear printed dresses or patterned jackets that add a layer and shift focus • To create balance, wear flared bottoms; palazzos etc • Ponchos work well • Thicker fabrics will generally flatter more than clingy, thinner fabrics Avoid figure-hugging dresses or tops with skinny jeans.

This is the most balanced figure with a proportionate top and bottom with a dedicated waistline. Look for dresses that accentuate your curves and channel your inner Marilyn Monroe. Hourglass Figures can be shown off with: • Dresses which cinch in at the waist, or draw attention to your waist with a belt. • A simple fit and flare dress • Sweetheart and V Necklines • Form-fitting jersey knits • Peplum blouses Avoid loose-fitting unstructured dresses or trousers and baggy tops which will hide your curves.

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H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

PEAR BODY SHAPE

rectangle BODY SHAPE

Where your thighs and bottom are bigger than your upper body - think Jennifer Lopez or Kim Kardashian. If you are pear-shaped then create the illusion of an hourglass figure and balance out the top half of your body. Fitted tops will give you a definition around your shoulders and draw attention to your narrow waist. If you tend to be on the curvy side, this is even truer - make sure to show it off!

This shape is often quite angular and well balanced from the shoulders to the hips. Choose items which add definition to your bottom as well as neckline which draws the eye to the upper body. Take inspiration from celebrities like Cameron Diaz and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Pear Shapes suit: • Wide-legged trousers, with a patterned or ruffle top or cowl neck will add definition to the upper body • Skinny jeans with loose tops will also create an hourglass illusion • Boat neck tops will help balance out the bottom half of your figure • Try an A-line dress and a hemline that hits right below the knee to elongate your frame • Have fun with prints and dynamic top shapes and choose darker, subtle colours on the bottom • If you are on the petite side then bootcut and classic fits are elongating

To give the illusion of curves: • Sleeveless, strapless, halter neck styles, scoop, round or sweetheart necklines • Emphasize your bust and lean towards statement collars or embellished necklines • To add some curve to your waistline, choose tops that can be tucked in. Belted tops create the illusion of a more slender waist • To create more shape around your midsection look for cropped or elastic waist style coats • Flowy jackets will look amazing on you • Most dress styles work but focus on the feature you want to show off. If you have great legs hike up the hemline, to play up your bust choose a strapless dress • If you have an oversized top or an A line jacket that finishes at your hips then match with skinny jeans or structured trousers Hopefully, this gives you the confidence to try some new shapes. You’ll be amazed at the difference it will make but our top tip is to make sure you have properly fitting underwear as that makes all the difference, whatever your body shape. The Carlisle Guide

H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

Seductive Smokey Eyes

gorgeous simple look or sexy smokey eyes are not just for models and photoshoots. Our hair and makeup artist Bridget Foster reveals how you can achieve the same results at home. Over last year I had some great opportunities working for Holly Woodhead at the Lanes Shopping Centre. Working as a Hair and Makeup Artist, I would create, demonstrate and direct the looks that would fit our brief in each job. During this time, I came across Tommy Martin who works as a Fashion photographer within Carlisle. Tommy asked me if I was free to do a quick test shoot on a couple of models back in October. My portfolio is my pride and joy that I have travelled far and wide to produce. However, it had been about 7 years since I did a test shoot and was probably time to update it. During test shoots, it’s a good opportunity for me to style a model and experiment with colour and texture. It’s basically a great chance to style someone else exactly to my taste and as much as I love my Instagram and Facebook videos, the makeup is on myself. I really enjoy re-inventing some-

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Bridget Foster Make Up & Hair www.bridgetfoster.co.uk @bridgetfos

one for an occasion and it’s always nice to see someone in a different light. That’s also a model’s job, to become a muse for a brief moment. With bridal and private clients it’s very much about what the client wants which means my skills are used differently. So, my test shoot with Tommy and his partner Katie Jay included two models where one was very commercial and the other high fashion. I will discuss the commercial look for readers as this is where you can all relate. Emilia Steven is a naturally beautiful model who’s local to us and was looking for more mature, made-up looks. Most of her images were bare-faced looks. So my task was easy. Look 1 - Simply Gorgeous Look 2 - Sexy Smokey Eye A very quick turnaround is key when working on set so this transition works very well.

H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

Look 1: Simply Gorgeous

But I do believe you should be able to choose what products you prefer. • • • •

A good base for your eyeshadow – Lancome Camouflage concealer Cream / Crayon style Eye Shadow – Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Black Eye Shadow – I used a black in a Zoeva Palette Cake Eyeliner – Bobbi Brown from Gretna Outlet store

Photo credit Tommy Martin & Katie Jay @Katiekatjay @tommymartinphoto My favourite classic look. A flawless, natural yet beautifully photographic skin. These images had zero editing on the skin. Now for me, this is what we should all be aiming for when it comes to the finish and appearance of your skin. My skin combination at the moment: • • • •

Two-Faced multi sculpt concealer (as a foundation) Bobbi Brown full coverage concealer Lancome Foundation stick – Contour in Brownie Hourglass Loose Powder to Set

I completed this look with a double Demi Ardell Lash layered on and a gorgeous Rose Gold eye and my favourite nude lip with a fine lip line.

Look 2: Sexy Smokey Eye I have set up a series of IGTV videos demonstrating various ways of wearing a smokey eye. @Bridgetfos It never fails and always looks chic and dramatic. Below are the key essentials to creating a smokey eye look and I have listed the type of product to look for and what I used on Emilia and in my IGTV video. The Carlisle Guide

S T E E D B E S P O K E TA I L O R S

London, New York, Shanghai ...and Carlisle

teed Bespoke Tailors have built a reputation as one of Savile Row’s finest since the company was formed in 1995.

Steed was founded in Carlisle by Master Cutter, Edwin Deboise, who has nearly fifty years in the industry and has fitted outfits for fashion icons such as Franco Moschino, Nicola Bulgari and Manolo Blahnik. In 2008 his son Matthew became the fourth generation of Savile Row Cutters and has looked after footballer Aaron Ramsey, champion golfer and Ryder Cup Captain Darren Clarke and boxers Darren Barker and Paulie Malignaggi. Edwin’s youngest son, Christopher, made it a complete family business when he joined Steed in 2013. The bulk of Steed’s work is in the United States and China and the family regularly visits New York, Washington DC, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston, Nashville, Beijing and Shanghai where they measure clients for bespoke and made to measure suits and attire. Steed is renowned for their signature style of soft, understated elegance that’s gained them a myriad of clients across the world. The company boasts a worldwide reputation but most Cumbrians have no idea of its Carlisle roots, or their new workshop on Warwick Road: “Local clients can book an appointment and come straight to the workshop,” said Matthew. “They’ll have our undivided attention as we take figuration and posture details along with over thirty measurements. My father and I will advise them through a selection of cloth, designs, cuts and styles. We meet and measure our international clients from a hotel suite, their details come back to Carlisle with us and the process takes about six months until our return trip but Cumbrian customers can come into the workshop and have their outfits within six weeks.” Bespoke and made to measure suits are both cut to fit the client perfectly and are unique to each individual but the difference is significant:

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H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

“Our main service is bespoke and that’s where everything is completely handmade,” said Matthew. “It’s cut in Carlisle, our finisher is based here and we have jacket, trouser and waistcoat makers in both Cumbria and London. It takes around 120 hours to complete a three-piece suit which costs £4600 before VAT, around 110 hours to finish a two-piece suit for £3600 and 80 hours into a £2600 jacket. The price is reflected in the skill and the man-hours that go into making them but you will never beat a bespoke suit in terms of figuration and how it feels. Made to measure is different because the suits are machine made in a European factory but clients still have the same choice of thousands of British and Italian fabrics, styles, linings, buttons and sleeve or trouser length, which is a very personal thing. A made to measure suit is considerably cheaper and normally costs £1300 but we do a special price for local customers of £950 (including VAT), which is real value for a unique suit you can call your own. That can be cheaper than buying a brand name from a store where you are limited on style, cloth and it’s not measured to fit.” And why would a Savile Row tailor with high flying international clients base itself in Cumbria?

“My grandfather was an officer in the army and was stationed at CAD Longtown,” explained Matthew. “When my grandparents retired they moved to Carlisle and my parents thought it would be better for me and my brother Chris to grow up here. They were right, my father would never go back, he loves it up here.” Steed may have an international reputation but it retains it’s Cumbrian heart. Visit www.steed.co.uk or find them on Instagram @steedbespoketailors, Facebook @SteedSavileRow or call the workshop on 01228 317840 to book an appointment.

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FOOD & DRINK

SICILY IN THE CITY CENTRE SPRINGTIME SWEETS SEASONAL TARTS RECIPES

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SICILY IN THE CITY CENTRE

020 marks a double celebration for Rosa and Filippo Amato, it’s the 5th birthday of their popular family-run restaurant and the 60th anniversary of the family moving to Carlisle from Sicily.

Amato’s sits in Carlisle’s historic quarter on the cobbles of Abbey Street, right by the gates to Carlisle Cathedral. It’s an atmospheric part of the city and the perfect setting to bring a taste of Sicily into the heart of the city. Peter (Pietro), Nicky (Nuccio) & Vito were the first Amato’s to settle in Carlisle and while the brothers made their living as tailors, the next generation looks to celebrate their heritage. So when siblings Rosa and Filippo set up their own business, a Sicilian/Italian restaurant was the obvious choice. “I’ve always had a passion for cooking,” said Filippo. “I’ve been in the industry since I was 13 and moved to La Manga, in Spain, to challenge myself. I ended up staying for five years and had a stint in France too. That experience overseas was invaluable.”

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His sister Rosa also left Carlisle to work down south: “I’m an accountant by trade but always knew I wanted to run my own business, although I was never sure what. My brother and I found ourselves back in Carlisle around the same time, Filippo knew he had the experience to run his own restaurant and I thought it would be a great challenge. Between the two of us, we decided to open a restaurant. We found a building but it was derelict and needed a lot of work. When I showed it to Filippo he said I was mad but we stripped everything out and within three months Amato’s was open. It wasn’t long after the final Amato brother had retired and we were proud to carry on our family name.” With Filippo’s passion and expertise for Italian and Sicilian cuisine, combined with Rosa’s drive for business, the pair have created a beautiful, atmospheric and delicious taste of Sicily.

FOOD & DRINK

Amato’s specialise in fresh fish dishes, traditional pizzas, pasta, risotto and daily specials are always on offer. Their food is cooked in their open kitchen where you can see Filippo and his team at work. It’s taken five years to build their reputation and the duo couldn’t be more delighted: “It’s been hard work,” admits Filippo. “We started with a small idea and we’re pleased with how it’s grown. It’s gone beyond our wildest dreams and while my sister and have some family moments, I’ve found that as long as I stay in the kitchen, everything works just fine. But seriously, we bounce off each other, it works well and we make a good team.

We’d like to thank all our customers, the family and our team for their support over the years. It’s great to see so many returning customers and we realise Amato’s wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for their ongoing support.” Amato’s is already great value, but don’t forget, the early bird certainly catches the worm with a range of happy hour specials too. Join the Amato’s for their birthday celebration and find out what Sicilian hospitality is all about. To book a table please call 01228 658021, you can find Amato’s on social media or visit www.amatos.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Baked Cod & Tomatoes

ring your cooking to life with The Hawkshead Relish Cook Book. These simple meals are packed with flavour and make the most of the jars and bottles tucked away in your cupboard. The sweetness of black garlic is fantastic with fish and tomatoes. You can use hake, sea bass, haddock or salmon instead of cod for this quick and easy recipe. Preparation: 10 minutes | Cooking: 25 minutes Serves: 4

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FOOD & DRINK

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • •

1 finely diced small onion 200g halved cherry tomatoes Dash of olive oil Salt and pepper 4 x 120g skinned cod loins 4 tablespoons Hawkshead Relish Black Garlic Ketchup 2 slices of white bread 15g chopped flat-leaf parsley 2 large chopped cloves of garlic Zest of 1 lemon

For the white bean salad • • • • • •

340g tin of cannellini beans 1 small finely chopped red onion 1 teaspoon chopped mint 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar Salt and pepper

Method 1.

Heat oven to 180°C. Sauté onion and tomatoes in a frying pan with a little olive oil to soften, transfer to an ovenproof dish. Season with salt, pepper and drizzle a little more olive oil, place in the oven for 8 minutes.

Place fish on top of the tomato mix and top each piece with a spoonful of Black Garlic Ketchup. Remove crusts from the bread and whizz into breadcrumbs. Mix with the parsley, garlic, lemon zest and seasoning. Sprinkle the crumb on top of the fish.

Bake for around 10 to 14 minutes so it’s cooked through. Meanwhile, make the accompaniments.

White bean salad

Drain and rinse the cannellini beans, mix all ingredients together. Serve the salad on the side.

Tip Serve with chargrilled baby gem lettuce; simply slice whole lettuce in half lengthways and sear with a little olive oil until blackened and warmed through. Embellish with Relish is available to buy in all good bookshops or online at www.mezepublishing.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Raspberry Cranachan

ith spring here it’s time to ditch those heavy winter puddings as we take inspiration from North of the border with this light and fruity Cranachan.

Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients • • • • • • •

30g caster sugar 100g coarse oatmeal 300g fresh raspberries 1½ tablespoons Hawkshead Relish Raspberry & Vanilla Jam 3 tablespoons whisky 300ml whipping cream Mint leaves, for decoration

Method 1. 2. 3.

4. 5. 6. 7.

Place the caster sugar in a pan with one and a half tablespoons of water. Leave on a low heat for around 5 minutes to melt. Do not stir. Put the oatmeal in a frying pan on medium heat and swirl it around to brown, but don’t let it burn. Once it has started to colour, remove from the heat. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and bring to a boil until it turns the colour of honey, then stir in the oatmeal and spread the mixture on an oiled baking sheet to cool. Once it has cooled and set, break into pieces, or pop in a small food processor for a quick whizz. Place the raspberries in a saucepan (keeping a few back for decoration) with the Raspberry & Vanilla Jam and heat until they start to break down. Add the whisky to the cream and whip until thick and holding its shape. Reserve a couple of tablespoons of the oatmeal mix and stir the rest through the cream. Put a heaped tablespoon in a glass or dish, followed by the same of raspberry jam, then add more cream and another raspberry layer. Sprinkle over a little of the oatmeal mix, and top with a fresh raspberry and a mint leaf. Chill until ready to serve.

Tip

Makes a great filling for meringues. Use yoghurt instead of cream for a lighter mix. The Carlisle Guide

FOOD & DRINK

Tomato and Wild Garlic Pesto Tart

Vegan tart that makes the most of wild garlic in the pesto. It’s a seasonal favourite you will find growing all over Cumbria just follow your nose.

Ingredients For the wild garlic pesto: • • • • •

65g pumpkin seeds 100g wild garlic leaves 1 lemon, zested and juiced Salt and pepper 120ml olive oil

For the Henderson’s Relish caramelised onions: • • •

4 white onions, sliced Splash of olive oil Henderson’s Relish

For the tomato tart:: • • • • • •

6 ripe tomatoes (local and grown in season are ideal) 1-2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped Sprig of thyme 1 pack of ready-made puff pastry Soya milk (or other vegan milk) Handful of pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds

caramelised onions: • • •

4 white onions, sliced Splash of olive oil Henderson’s Relish

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FOOD & DRINK

Method For the wild garlic pesto

This is best made in March or April but can give way to a fresh herb salsa made with parsley, dill mint, coriander or others later in the year. Using a food processor, blend pumpkin seeds with the wild garlic (or mixed herbs), lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper and olive oil.

For the Henderson’s Relish caramelised onions

Slowly sweat down the sliced onions in a pan with a little olive oil, adding relish and seasoning to taste. The onions will gradually darken until sticky, dark brown and unctuous.

For the tomato tart

Prepare the tomatoes by slicing them onto a baking tray lined with baking parchment. Season with relish, salt and pepper, thyme and garlic. Toss everything together then bake in an oven at 170°c for 45 minutes. This draws out some moisture and intensifies the flavour. While the tomatoes are cooking, roll out the puff pastry to the size of an A4 sheet of paper and approximately 2mm thick. Score a 2cm border right around the outside and brush the whole sheet with soya milk. Add a thin base layer of caramelised onions within the border you have made. Next place the sliced tomatoes around the tart. Finally, sprinkled mixed seeds carefully around the border. Bake in the oven at 180°c for 30 to 40 minutes, checking to achieve a nicely browned pastry edge.

To serve

Let the tart cool slightly and serve with a dollop of pesto on top, offering bottles of Henderson’s Relish for people to ‘dress’ their slice at the table. Great with new potatoes and seasonal salad for a rustic lunch. The Vegan North is available to buy in all good bookshops or online at www.mezepublishing.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

ut the winter warming spirits back into the liquor cabinet. Spring will soon be here and it’s time to combine a splattering of colour with a few extra hours of daylight, throw in a dash of sunshine and add a cocktail as you begin to shake off the winter blues.

solway sunset Ingredients • 15 ml Blue curaçao • 30 ml Suerte silver tequila • 15 ml Ancho Reyes chile liqueur • 7.5 ml Campari • 7.5 ml Aperol • 22 ml Orange juice • 7.5 ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice • 4 ml Simple syrup • Orange slice to garnish Method Add all the ingredients except the blue curaçao into a shaker filled with ice and shake. Slowly pour over crushed ice in a highball glass. Gently pour the blue curaçao over a teaspoon to layer over the top and garnish with an orange slice.

Strawberry Gin Smash Ingredients for a pitcher • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar • 2 limes, juiced (about 1/4 cup) • 1 pound fresh strawberries • 2 cups gin • 3 cups club soda • Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish Method Muddle the sugar and limes in a pitcher that holds at least 8 cups. Set aside 6 to 8 small strawberries and make a small slice in their tips. Hull and slice the remaining strawberries and muddle them lightly with the sugar and lime juice. Stir in the gin and club soda and pack the pitcher full of ice. Add mint sprigs to garnish and add a strawberry, slotted onto the edge of the glass, when serving. You can make this pitcher ahead; mix everything except the club soda and ice, then refrigerate overnight which will also help the strawberries add flavour and colour. 42

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FOOD & DRINK

Pink Lemonade It really tastes just like pink lemonade and packs a wallop, so be sure to let everyone know there’s booze in it. Ingredients • 2 parts Citrus rum • or Citrus vodka • ¾ part Triple sec • ½ part Lemon juice • ¼ part Cranberry juice • or Raspberry liqueur or Raspberry syrup Method Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass, rimmed with sugar beforehand. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

mojito Mix this classic cocktail using fresh mint, white rum, sugar, zesty lime and cooling soda water. Play with the quantities to suit your taste. Ingredients • juice of 1 lime • 1 tsp granulated sugar • small handful mint • leaves, plus an extra sprig to serve • 60ml white rum • soda water to taste Method Muddle the lime juice, sugar and mint in a small jug, crushing the mint as you go – you can use the end of a rolling pin for this. Pour into a tall glass and add a handful of ice. Pour over the rum, stirring with a long-handled spoon. Top up with soda water and garnish with mint and serve. The Carlisle Guide

PUZZLES

Catch-Words

Across 1 3 9 10 11 12 14 17 19 22 23 24 25

Former chief magistrate of Venice (4) State of total disorder (8) Electioneer (7) Well-suited position (5) Cosy secluded retreats (5) Gullet (6) Detail added to a story to make it more interesting (13) Illegally seize control of (6) Compilation of recordings (5) A levy of one tenth (5) Bird of prey (7) Giving way (8) Put into service (4)

Down 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 13 15 16 18 20 21

Ornamental bottle for dispensing wine (8) Biological group containing one or more species (5) Is insensitive to criticism (3,1,5,4) Underground worker (5) Secrete milk (7) Place obliquely (4) Maiden (poetic) (6) Lost oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footing (8) Stiff hair (7) Vehicle for the last trip? (6) In the lead (5) Cremates - Scottish poet, d.1796 (5) Remain (4)

Answers on page 81 ALPHA SUDOKU Place a letter from A to

I in each empty cell so every row, every column and every 2x3 box contains all the letters A to I.

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JIGSAW SUDOKU Just as in a regular

sudoku, the rows and columns must still contain one and only one of the digits. However, as you can see, instead of the usual regularly shaped subareas.

B O O K FCEO AR TN U ER RE

Explore Parson’s Passage or Ticklebelly Alley

hitehaven authors Alan Cleaver and Lesley Park have published a new book, “Get Lost” which explores some of the more unusual footpaths

in Cumbria.

Parson’s Passage, Ticklebelly Alley, Squeezed Gut Lonning... the county has a rich selection of paths for tourists to choose from but very few appear on maps or guide books. Alan, 60, of Church Street, Whitehaven, said: “Many of the names of these paths are known only to the local villagers and the origin of the names is often long forgotten. But we’ve spent the last four or five years collecting the names and locations to share them with a wider audience. We hope our new book will encourage people to explore parts of Cumbria not normally visited by either locals or tourists.” All the paths mentioned are public footpaths and “Get Lost” includes detailed maps, pictures and suggestions of other places nearby to visit. Most are suitable for families or the less-able walker. Alan and Lesley are the authors of “Corpse Roads of Cumbria” which was published in 2018 and won the Lakeland Book of the Year Award. “Get Lost” continues their exploration of the county’s historic paths and includes a chapter on corpse roads featuring a long-forgotten corpse road between Sockbridge and Penrith.

“The wonderful names of Cumbria’s ancient paths often hint at the history or original purpose behind them,” said Alan. “We hope the trails we have described encourage people to explore these paths and think about the people who first created them.” Get Lost is available from bookshops and priced at £10. You can follow Alan on twitter @thelonningsguy

Other paths featured in the book include Postman’s Paths around Caldbeck, Eskdale and the Lickle Valley – paths originally trod by postmen as a shortcut but which became official footpaths. The Servants Path follows the route taken by servants from the Flass stately home at Maulds Meaburn to the church at Crosby Ravensworth and a path through the woods at Rusland near Newby Bridge, traces the steps of Christopher Cloudsdale who died in 1849 in a storm as he tried to escape a ghost known as the Ealinghearth Dobbie. The Carlisle Guide

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eggciting Easter events Easter holidays are on the way, with the arrival of spring, and the better weather, there’s a whole range of ways you can keep the kids entertained. Outdoors or indoors, relaxed or active - we have it covered.

Adventure Days at Talkin Tarn Try a canoeing or kayaking taster session with Talkin Adventures. You’ll gain a British Canoeing Start Award depending on which session you choose. And you’ll have so much fun why not progress your paddling journey with a day of coaching to learn more skills? If you have tried Canoeing or Kayaking before then skip straight to the Discover Award. Equipment and tuition are provided, bring a change of clothes and shoes that can get wet. Booking is easy www.independentadventure.co.uk/talkin-adventures-cumbria

Magical Mel’s Easter Ball The Crown and Mitre Carlisle

The infamous Magical Mel’s Ball is back this Easter in the stunning ballroom of the Crown and Mitre Hotel. Meet flop the Easter bunny and receive a treat. Be entertained by Phil Flip and dance with the Rainbow Jelly Productions - Children’s Entertainment Characters. The event is now hosted by Rainbow Jelly Productions but the kids can still expect a fun-filled time and Easter treats from Magical Mel along with all the usual fun and frivolities from the classic show. Book at www.ticketsource.co.uk

Tullie House Tullie House is a great option for families at any time of year with events and drop-in sessions. Tullie Toddlers is a friendly toddler session for children up to 5 years old. The themed drop-in session on 8 April is Under the Sea and Mini Beasts on 22 April. They involve a range of activities, crafts and sensory play while the Border Galleries hosts Tuesday Tales every other week at 11am. Join them on the 31 March and 28th April for traditional storytelling sessions where children are welcome to come and go as they please. www.tulliehouse.co.uk 48

The Carlisle Guide

Easter Multi-Sport Camp

Trinity Leisure Centre 30 Mar - 9 Apr

The popular Multi-Sport Camp will run for nine days throughout the Easter Holidays. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a popular event that keeps the kids entertained and helps them burn off plenty of energy at the same time. However, places do fill up fast so please book early to avoid disappointment as there is a limit to the number of children catered for. Check closer to the time for updates and a schedule of activities. To book a place please call Trinity on 01228 403565. www.betterlessons.org.uk

Easter Dogs Day Out & Fair Oak Tree Animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Charity 4 April

If you love dogs then this is the day for you. Not only will there be lots of four-legged furry friends about there will also be plenty of family-friendly games, the famous cake stall and the tearoom will serve delicious food and drink all day. Come down and join the team for what promises to be a fantastic day celebrating our love of dogs and Easter. What a combination! Head down to Oak Tree Farm at Wetheral Shields from 11:00 am. www.oaktreeanimals.org.uk

CARLISLE UNITED

Fight To Win Over Hearts And Minds Of Lost Fans By Ross Brewster

Photography by Mark Fuller

or the first time in a while, some of the negativity and disillusion around Brunton Park has been tempered with more positive vibes.

However head coach Chris Beech and director of football David Holdsworth know full well that, with gates showing no appreciable improvement, the battle for the hearts and minds of the more cynical lost supporters is going to be a long, hard road. Sitting in on some of Beech’s post-match briefings it’s been a breath of fresh air to hear his detailed breakdowns of performances. Beech’s informative comments for the local media can never be said to short-change his audience. And at least Beech can say, with justification, “we’re making progress.” He admits it was difficult coming into a club where “everything was negative.” He said: “You have to stay calm and do the right things although we haven’t done anything yet because I want to win.” 50

The Carlisle Guide

The Steven Pressley era had to come to an end. For all his reassuring words about the future development of United, the fact is they were going nowhere, at least not as a Football League club, during his tenure. The Chris Beech appointment came out of left field for most fans. “Chris who?” You could almost hear the question. In fact, United opted not for a popular ex-player or a manager from the merry-go-round of usual suspects, but for an established coach at this level, someone with a strong reputation among battle-hardened pro’s if not a name that immediately tripped off the tongue. It’s important that the man in charge understands the game at United’s level and has the ambition to restore pride in players and supporters. A lot of erstwhile loyalists have drifted away during a seriously troubling period for the Cumbrians and Beech knows that ultimately it’s only wins on the board that will change opinions.

“Obviously you are judged on three points and there can only be so much timeline to hard work, effort and endeavour if you are not ultimately winning.” Carlisle’s re-shaping meant one of their busiest-ever January transfer periods. It was unfortunate that a couple of Beech’s main signings went down with injuries barely into this next phase of their careers. But it’s clear United, once they are free of lingering relegation concerns, are planning for summer and beyond. “All part of the strategic approach to recruitment,” said Holdsworth. “We’ve spent money and invested and it has given the fans something to feel positive about.” Looking back at United’s desperately poor first half of the season, Holdsworth confessed: “I completely respect how the fans felt about it. They are not daft and knew it had to be dealt with. Results were not going our way and the table reflected that.”

When United moved the press benches from the old main stand to the opposite side they situated we humble scribes close to the away supporters. All too frequently over the past couple of seasons we’ve had to listen to those travelling fans doing the cheering and the crowing. Their silence might just signify a new golden era for the Blues. Well, we can hope at least.

Defensively United have looked more solid of late. All “down to hard work” says Beech. In Byron Webster and Aaron Hayden they finally seem to have alighted on their best central defence pairing. Webster’s transformation from error-riddled performances to a reliable strong man at the back is the biggest revelation within the side. “He has been brilliant,” said his coach. “He leads well, speaks well, tries his best, recovers well and does professional things to make sure he is available for every game,” was Beech’s generous but merited tribute to a player who was subject to some unpleasant social media criticism in the opening months of the campaign. There’s still a lack of consistency about Carlisle’s performances and with uncertainty about the future off the pitch prevailing for such a long time, matched by inadequate recruiting of players, it’s no wonder even regulars have eschewed the Saturday afternoon and Tuesday night traipse down Warwick Road. Getting them back will be only made possible when people see something genuinely exciting is beginning to take shape at Brunton Park. The Carlisle Guide

Exciting developments for popular motor club

MOTORING

igton Motor Club has an exciting 2020 lined up with a host of their popular events and a brand new headquarters development. The club is one of the most progressive in the UK and has twice won the prestigious Motor Club of the Year competition. During 2019 work started on the Club’s new home near Cockermouth, The Motor House. It will be used to store equipment and there will be space for office facilities along with a multi-use area for meetings and talks.

touring events that the Club runs throughout the year. The first is the Midweek Meander in March, followed by the three day Yorkie Gallop in May while the Rose and Thistle in August will round up the year. The club’s biggest public event is the Cumbria Classic and Motorsport Show at Dalemain on August 23rd. Now in its 32nd year, it’s the biggest classic and motorsport event in the north. This year the featured marques are Cobra, Toyota and MG and past shows have seen over 800 cars on display.

Members will benefit from the space which will give them a dedicated area to work on their cars. The interior is still being fitted out but it’s hoped everything will be in order for the official opening in the Spring.

At Dalemain on April 26th, there will be the annual Drive It Day, which is part of the celebration of older vehicles co-ordinated by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs. It is very informal and runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and members of all clubs are welcome to attend.

Last year saw the first running of a new event for the Club, the Coast to Coast Run, and as it proved so successful it will be repeated this year in October when it runs from Maryport to Hartlepool. This additional event joins the series of

During the lighter evenings, there is a programme of evening runs on the first Wednesday of the month. These wonderful outings are usually around 40 miles and finish at a pub for sandwiches and refreshments.

The Carlisle Guide

MOTORING

These events include up to 20 special tests run over private land linked by road sections which may include some navigational challenges. They are completely different from stage rallies in that the speeds are much less and the cars are near standard. Other events will be announced as the year progresses. The club has an award-winning monthly magazine, Start Line which has all the local and national news from a team of regular columnists. Wigton Motor Club also sends out email updates according to locality or event interests. The club also hosts a full programme of competitive events with ten autotests or autosolos, two historic and Targa rallies while the preseason test day has been re-introduced.

“They can enter these events on a fairly limited budget because it can be done in a standard car.” The historic rallies run over the same format and this is for cars over 30 years old while the Targa events are open to standard road-going cars. Targa events are an ideal way for new members to get started in motorsport at minimum cost. A typical entry cost is £100 which includes all fees, insurance and food for two people during the event. “The smaller, more nimble cars are what we see in the Targa,” explained Club Secretary Graeme Forrester. “They are very popular with newer members and younger people who want to get started. They can enter these events on a fairly limited budget because it can be done in a standard car.”

Over 850 members can’t be wrong so if you love motorsports and would like to get involved find information and membership details for the Wigton Motor Club at www.wigtonmc.co.uk

The Carlisle Guide

W H AT ’ S O N

Editor’s Pick

Our editors pick is filled with a few queens, a young band on the way up, an English country singer, a group of Indie rock favourites and a couple of comedians just for laughs.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert 9 - 14 March, The Sands Centre

Starring Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden, Priscilla is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime. Their epic journey is a heart-warming story of self-discovery, sassiness and acceptance. With more glitter than ever before, this smash-hit show features a dazzling array of stunning costumes, fabulous feathers and a non-stop parade of dance-floor classics including Hot Stuff, I Will Survive, I Love The Nightlife and Finally! www.thesandscentre.co.uk

Elles Bailey

Saturday 21 March, The Old Fire Station Last year Elles Bailey dropped her eagerly-anticipated second album ‘Road I Call Home’ to rave reviews. The album charted in the Official UK Country Charts and Americana charts and gained over 1.3 million streams. Her new album features co-writing contributions from high-calibre collaborators like British Ivor Novello Award winner Roger Cook and Memphis and Nashville giant Bobby Wood. As a self-confessed ‘rolling stone’ – Elles genuinely does call ‘the road’ home and she’s continued her wide-ranging headline tour throughout March. www.oldfirestation.carlisle.city

The Hara

10 April, The Old Fire Station The Hara is a high-energy three-piece alternative rock band whose stage presence is likened to Queen, AC/DC and Guns N Roses with an amped-up sound taking influences from a wide range of artists like Bring Me the Horizon, Royal Blood, Arctic Monkeys, Panic! At The Disco, Muse and Yungblud. Their music combines Josh’s stunning vocals, Zack’s gritty riffs with Jack’s punchy drum beats. The Hara gives a full live sound through the use of pads, triggers and stems which emulates thirty instruments, while only playing three. www.oldfirestation.carlisle.city 54

The Carlisle Guide

The Futureheads

W H AT ’ S O N

3 April, The Brickyard

Sunderland’s indie favourites The Futureheads are headed to the Brickyard. They blasted into the public consciousness in the early 2000s as part of an angular art-punk movement that included the likes of Franz Ferdinand and Bloc Party. Their blend of spiky guitar riffs, unconventional song structures and intricate four-part vocal harmonies set them apart from their contemporaries and their rousing cover of Kate Bush’s ‘Hounds Of Love’ shot them into the top ten. Four albums followed before an extensive hiatus – returning triumphantly with 2019’s ‘Powers’. www.thebrickyardonline.com

Kiri Pritchard-Mclean: Empathy, Pains 16 April , The Old Fire Station

Comedian Kiri Pritchard-McLean has already tackled structural racism, sexism, child grooming and emotional abuse in previous tours, so it’s hardly surprising she’s let her wit loose on empathy for her new show. Kiri thinks empathy is seen as a weakness, like asthma or being first to pull away from a handshake. Why is that? Surely what we need in these divided times is more empathy? So Kiri is off on a search to find a group of people who she struggles to empathise with, what could this mean…? www.oldfirestation.carlisle.city

Rob Beckett - WALLOP 2 May, The Sands Centre

Rob Beckett is back on tour with a new stand-up show. It’s been a busy few years for the Mouth of the South and he’s in Carlisle to fill you in and give you a laugh too. As well as live standup, Rob is the host of BBC One’s primetime singing entertainment show All Together Now and team captain on Channel 4’s 8 Out Of 10 Cats. The 33-year-old Londoner has hosted Comic Relief and Children In Need and recently joined his pal Romesh Ranganathan in Sky’s Rob and Romesh Vs. www.thesandscentre.co.uk The Carlisle Guide

W H AT ’ S O N

In-store Entertainers

anager of HMV in Carlisle, Russ Withey, is proud of their efforts promoting up and coming Cumbrian musicians by providing the shop floor as a live music venue.

“There is so much talent in Cumbria and it’s great to be part of it,” said Russ. “It all started when HMV was taken over by new owners called Sunrise Records, the owner is very keen on getting live music back in the store so we went with that idea and took it as far as we are able.” The bold move has seen a string of bands entertain shoppers in-store on Saturday afternoons. The first to grace the shop floor was the Postcard Band back in July and other events followed throughout the year with big crowds and a double bill on National Album Day last October. “The shop was packed with people enjoying the music which was fantastic,” explained Russ. “We have a lot of live performances lined up this year and we’ve also organised a battle of the bands at Harraby Community Centre on July 18th. It’s really going to be a great showcase for local music, it will be a bit like a festival because we’ll have at least eight bands taking part and I’d love to get food stalls in too. It will be a fantastic day and there will be a good cash prize for the winners too.” The local initiative not only gives musicians a chance to perform in front of a new audience it also provides a chance to sell their music too: “We have a local music stand and I play a lot of the local albums in the shop. I try and do a local hour where we play local music every day and we’ve started working closely with live music venues in Carlisle to promote local performances.” This small but significant idea has grown and with the backing of the huge high street store Russ is keen to pave the way for more musicians to be heard: “Any bands out there that would like to play in HMV can come directly to us or contact us via social media. We’re more than happy to give them that platform that will get them out there. I love music, so to be able to introduce people to new music that’s on their own doorstep is amazing. It gives us all a buzz having local bands play in the store, it brings people in and gets them smiling.” 56

The Carlisle Guide

It’s not always easy for emerging bands to get themselves heard but with the help of Russ and HMV, the gap between them and their audience is only a shop floor away.

W H AT ’ S O N

MUSIC / COMEDY /THE ATRE / FILM / OTHER MUSIC MARCH

Hayseed Dixie / Album Signing / hmv Carlisle hmv · Carlisle

Rhythm and Blues Club The Pheasant Inn · Brampton

Hayseed Dixie - old fire station old fire station · Carlisle

Angel and the 6th Note Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

WB - Gunke , Weekend Debt & Aaron Spencer Warwick Bazaar Live Music/Ar ts Centre · Carlisle

The Brickyard Music Quiz The Brickyard · Carlisle

The Savannah Jazz Band Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

Decades Night - live music and disco from the 60s 70s & 80s Pirelli Spor ts and Social Club · Carlisle

Melanie Baker The Pheasant Inn · Brampton

Michael Bublé Tribute Night Hallmark Hotel Carlisle · Carlisle

Long Meg live at Vinyl Cafe Vinyl Cafe Carlisle · Carlisle

Celebrating Wordswor th (250th anniversar y) Carlisle Cathedral · Carlisle

National President’s Ball Crown and Mitre Hotel · Carlisle

StillMarillion at The Brickyard The Brickyard · Carlisle

Snake Davis old fire station · Carlisle

Elles Bailey with special guest Tawny Ellis old fire station · Carlisle

Tragedy: All Metal Tribute to the Bee Gees & Beyond The Brickyard · Carlisle

Big Dance Cumbria 2020 The Sands Centre · Carlisle

Aida Opera - Carlisle The Sands Centre · Carlisle

The Merseysippi Jazz Band Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

The District Discotheque Havana Cocktail Bar · Carlisle

Live/Wire - The AC/DC Show old fire station · Carlisle

MOJazzRS st The Thin White Duke Thin White Duke · Carlisle

Retro at Black Box Music Institute Black Box Music Institute · Carlisle

The Gaz Hughes Quar tet Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

Spring Concer t St John the Evangelist · Carlisle

UK Foo Fighters Tribute old fire station · Carlisle

WB Presents Droll Man, Neon Lung & Ror y Connor Warwick Bazaar Live Music/Ar ts Centre · Carlisle

Japanese Culture and Customs The Carlisle Philosophical and Literar y Society

March Blues Jam ! old fire station · Carlisle

Beethoven 2020: The Next Generation St Cuthber t’s Church, Carlisle The Carlisle Guide

LOCAL SCENE

local releases

e are committed to showcasing the best of our local musical talent. If you’re in a band, or are a singer or musician and you’d like to feature in The Guide then email us at info@theguidemediagroup.com

reptilians

hitehaven-based three-piece Reptilians have returned with another slice of energetic indie rock.

The trio’s latest single - New Beaus & Broken Fruities – was released on February 14th and has already received airplay from BBC Introducing and drawn several favourable reviews on the blogosphere. New Beaus & Broken Fruities is a rapid-paced and often sardonic tale of unrequited love, malfunctioning fruit machines and awkward jukebox choices. “It’s very much a Northern anti-love song” explained Paul McGuirk, who plays drums in the band. Musically, the touchpoints for the track include The Wedding Present, The Cribs, Pulp and Joy Division. Production/mastering on the track was handled by Brad Kavanagh and Steve Norman at Big Moose Studios in Troutbeck, near Penrith. In support of this release, and the release of their forthcoming single ‘The Modern Harrison Bergeron’, Reptilians will embark on a series of live dates in the spring. This includes a hometown show with Colt 45 and Haushinka at The Yellow Earl, Whitehaven (27th March) and a support slot with Lady Bird at Carlisle’s Old Fire Station (May 18th). To stream or purchase Reptilians’ latest output, search for the band on Spotify, Apple Music or Google Play Music, or visit soundcloud.com/reptilianstheband. To find out more about live dates and future releases, follow the band on social media at facebook.com/reptilianstheband. 58

The Carlisle Guide

MELANIE BAKER

ndie-folk artist Melanie Baker isn’t afraid to wear her heart on her sleeve.

Her heartfelt and direct lyrics capture themes such as falling in and out of love, self-reflection and the anxieties of modern life. This time last year Melanie ran a 30-day Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for a new EP which she recorded in Buckingham and London. The first single ‘Broken’ has been released already and is a soft, simple acoustic piece that moves into something fuller and has been described as “heartbreakingly beautiful”. 2019 was a rollercoaster for Melanie who went through a huge breakup and was then suddenly travelling up and down the UK playing gigs. In between touring she took part in a huge London music competition where she placed as a finalist. “This EP is predominantly about the break-up I went through at the start of last year,” explained Melanie. “Songwriting is very therapeutic for me so to process all the emotions I was feeling I had to write a whole record about it. There are influences from a range of different artists - I was listening to a lot of Billy Joel and Joni Mitchell but also Phoebe Bridgers and Sara Bareilles. They are all very different and I think I’ve created and moulded my sound. It’s more about the lyrics for me.” Her EP ‘Broken’ is set to be released on March 20th and Melanie will head out on her debut headline UK Tour throughout April that includes a gig at Warwick Bazaar on the 11th of April. www.melaniebaker.net/live

LOCAL SCENE

uncle paf

ncle PAF has been a singer-songwriter for 41 years whose protest songs were sparked by listening to bands like The Clash.

As an angry teenager, Uncle PAF was then known as Paul Frear, and he formed his own anti-establishment, anti-war, anti-anything bands. The Thatcher years and the 84 Miners Strike specifically, was a seminal moment when friends and miners suffered greatly. Paul raised a family during 1990s and took time away from playing but discovered through busking, that a solo career gave greater flexibility. It’s not surprising that musicians like Billy Bragg, The Redskins and Red Wedge fuelled his songwriting and the last decade has been his most prolific period of writing and performing: “There’s a historical aspect to my music,” said Paul. “But I tend to feed off what’s going on at present and there’s no lack of songwriting material, although there’s more of an international flavour because the internet and social media expose us to so much more.” Uncle PAF recently teamed up with Phil Graham and Clumsy Alien Records to record his second album ‘The Miner and His Son’. Songs like Poverty Britain and Where to Go need no explanation and the last decade of austerity, the rise in foodbank use, homelessness and the global refugee crisis feature in the new album. Paul admits he’s forever making notes for new song ideas: “I’ll tour this album and then will see what festival season brings before thinking about recording new music.” Find Uncle PAF on YouTube or on Bandcamp at www.unclepaf.bandcamp.com

elaine davidson

s a teenager, Elaine Davidson busked her way around Europe playing songs from the beat generation like Bob Dylan, the Eagles and Joni Mitchell.

At 21, she returned home to Cumbria with the intention of starting a band, she met her husband and joined the crowd of musicians who played the pubs and clubs in the North of England. She was inspired to write her own songs after hearing Joan Armatrading’s album Love and Affection. In 2005 Elaine self-produced her first album - Inside. Other albums followed like Moon and Tide, which was inspired by reading about Saint Bega in Melvin Bragg’s novel Credo. “The next album, Can’t Tell The River, was recorded in LA,” said Elaine. “It was produced by Warren Hewitt who was a guitarist in my first band before he went his own way. I was putting the album together and he contacted me, he was now a multi-platinum record producer and offered to record it. It was more expensive to hire something in Cumbria than going over there and we recorded it in a famous LA studio called Sunset Sound. The latest album, Nothing But Love, was produced last year by Dave Winter. A lot of the songs are about my experiences in California so it still has that kind of vibe and I’m really delighted with how it sounds. I didn’t think we could recreate the quality we had in LA but I like as much, if not more.” For information visit www.elainedavidson.com You can see her perform at the Ireby Festival in May. The Carlisle Guide

Got an Event?

TO L I S T YO U R E V E N T F O R F R E E E M A I L : info@theguidemediagroup.com

MUSIC APRIL

Live Friday’s Present: Roost, original ar tists from Cumbria The Pheasant Inn · Brampton

The Gangster Of Reggae & Ska Harraby Pub & Kitchen · Carlisle

Trailblazer Final The Brickyard · Carlisle

April Blues Jam old fire station · Carlisle

Emma Fisk – Hot Club du Nord Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

Hot Club du Nord at Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Club · Carlisle

Rock ‘n’ Roll & Dine Cumbria Park Hotel · Carlisle

One night of Qween Harraby Catholic Club LTD · Carlisle

Rhythm a Go Go - Carlisle Carlisle

Club Britannia - Saturday night gig Club Britannia · Carlisle

Slaves of Venus at The Crown The Crown Inn Stanwix · Carlisle

The Italian Job @ The Brickyard • Italian House / Dance Classics The Brickyard · Carlisle

Luke Jackson at The Globe Hall Globe Hall · Carlisle

Border Concer t Band Spring Concer t St. Elisabeth’s Church, Arnside Road, Carlisle Emily Bacon’s Good Time Gang Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

John Hallam and Friends Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

The Lovely Eggs / live & signing / hmv Carlisle hmv · Carlisle

Gimp Fist old fire station · Carlisle

Japanese in Just a Day! The Carlisle Philosophical and Literar y Society

Mar tyn Bennett’s Old Green River Band Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

Freddie & Pink 2 a Tribute to Carlisle Harraby Catholic Club LTD · Carlisle

The Hara - Live In Carlisle old fire station · Carlisle

Colt 45, Reptilians, Haushinka A night not to be missed The Source · Carlisle

Jen Brister old fire station · Carlisle

Melanie Baker + the band Warwick Bazaar · Carlisle

The Jam’d Live! The Brickyard · Carlisle

Soul Junction LIVE at the Royal Scot Royal Scot Mor ton Park · Carlisle

Thieving Magpies Live at Dr ybeck Farm Dr ybeck Farm · Carlisle

Bull / Dragged Up / *Easter Monday Special* Warwick Bazaar · Carlisle

Pablo Bloom live in Carlisle! Club Britannia · Carlisle

M AY 01

Roz Sluman’s Big Shoes Band Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

Cloudbusting - The Music of Kate Bush old fire station · Carlisle

Pete Hoban and Son Carlisle Jazz Club Carlisle Rugby Union Club, Warwick Road

TThhee CCaarrl li issl lee GGuui iddee - V i s i t w w w . c u m b r i a g u i d e . c o . u k f o r t h e l a t e s t w h a t ’ s o n

W H AT ’ S O N

Spring Shows at Harraby Theatre

arraby Community Theatre hosts an exciting lineup of events this spring beginning with Rusty Firman on March 21st.

‘The man with no gloves’ was born and raised in Carlisle before joining the 49 Field Regiment Royal Artillery aged 17. He completed SAS selection in 1977 and was assigned to B Squadron and faced the threat from Guatemala in the jungle of Belize and spent time Malaya, Brunei, Borneo and Botswana along with four tours in Northern Ireland. He was in the Falkland Islands and was embroiled in the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege. As Blue Team leader he was part of the incidents inside the embassy. Rusty’s work brought him around the globe and his exploits make for an interesting night.

Daphne's Flight promises a great night of folk music on the 12th of May. In 1995, five friends sang together at the Cambridge Festival… magic happened and Daphne's Flight took off. Two decades later and the five gather again – older, wiser and twice as powerful. They released an album in 2017, ‘Knows Time, Knows Change’, w hile 2018 brought a sensational new live record. Tickets to all events are now on sale at www.ticketsource.co.uk/harraby or call the Box Office on 01228 537831

Comedienne, Steph Aird, is back on the 18th of April. Her career began in 2014 when, the then teacher, posted a video online. Two parents complained to the school and she was suspended but it spurred her to a new career as an entertainer and she’s not looked back since. Be warned though - If you are easily offended this is not the show for you. The Carlisle Guide

summer’s coming

...honest

!!!

pring is here and festival season is fast approaching. Cumbria’s festivals have gained national recognition and our rolling green fields will play host to a raft of top quality acts. Not sure which festival is for you? Our handy roundup will help you check which weekends you should mark off your calendar.

Ireby Festival 22-23 May

Ireby may be a small village with a population of 160 but it certainly knows how to throw a great party. The Ireby festival has a reputation of early sell-outs and this year won’t be an exception with headliners like Kate Rusby, Damien O’Kane, Katie O’Malley, LanderMason, Holy Moly & The Crackers, Emily Mae Winters, Becky Langan and Blackbeard’s Tea Party. There’s music to suit most tastes in small intimate venues, the main stage is restricted to 650 which gives Ireby an unforgettable and unique atmosphere. www.irebyfestival.co.uk

Forgotten Lands 29 - 31 May

This family-friendly field festival shines a light on the beautiful Border region around Bewcastle. It’s a wild, beautiful and unspoiled area and is also Cumbria’s best-kept secret. This little known area makes it a joyous and challenging place to live and festivals like Forgotten Lands shed a light on its strong community. This intimate event features music from The Trials of Cato, Shallamarra, Maddy Prior and more. What do you want from a festival? If it’s Music, Heritage, Community, Beer and Scran - then Forgotten Lands is for you. www.forgottenlands.org

Eden Festival 11 -14 June

It’s not Cumbria, but this boutique festival in Dumfries & Galloway is so close it’s worth mentioning. Set in the stunning Raehills Meadows it hosts 11 stages including a kids arena, snake pit dance arena, outdoor Devorgilla Stage and Great Mountain Stage, drive-in cinema, comedy club, cocktail bar in the woods and Rabbies Tavern Droothy Watering Hole. The festival plays host to its share of music but art is essential in its immersive atmosphere and artists will build, plant, carve, sculpt, grow and mould different areas or exhibitions. www.edenfestival.co.uk 62

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Music on the Marr 16 -19 July

Music on the Marr is a not-for-profit festival that celebrates music, diversity and excellent entertainment. With real music by musicians, real ale by local brewers, tasty food, great hospitality and lots of smiling, the motto is #pleasedance. The event centres on the Marr (the village green) in Castle Carrock and is spread over several venues. You’ll find music workshops, wandering magicians, circus acts, poetry, traditional dancing, willow weaving and an arts market. Come along and enjoy something you’ll remember for a very long time. www.musiconthemarr.com

Kendal Calling 30 July - 2 August

Kendal Calling is the must-visit weekender. Organisers are stepping things up to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a bumper line-up of huge names headed to Lowther Deer Park. Kendal has stood like a jewel in the UK festival crown since 2006 by consistently delivering unforgettable memories. It’s become one of the most in-demand festivals in the country and this year’s headliners include Supergrass, Stereophonics, Foals, Primal Scream, Craig David presents TS5 and comedian Bill Bailey. This year’s theme is ‘Kendal Calling Goes to the Arcade’ - let the games begin. www.kendalcalling.co.uk

Solfest

28 - 31 August Solfest’s future was uncertain in 2019 but hard-working organisers turned the festival’s fortunes around. It’s back, springing up like a wildflower in the Cumbrian meadows. Solfest has evolved from a local shindig into one of the best-loved of the UK’s independent festivals and has stayed true to its anti-corporate roots. It’s all about eclecticism and their handpicked line-up features a DJ set from Basement Jaxx, Big Country, Ferocious Dog, Peatbog Faeries and The Baghdaddies. From punks and ravers, grannies and toddlers, whoever you are - Solfest has something for everyone. www.solfest.org.uk The Carlisle Guide

W H AT ’ S O N

MUSIC / COMEDY /THE ATRE / FILM / OTHER FILM

MARCH

MARCH 11

Rear Window Tullie House Museum & Ar t Galler y Trust

Murder at the Movies Circle Bar · Carlisle

Frozen 2 Carlisle Vineyard Church · Carlisle

Aida Opera - Carlisle The Sands Centre · Carlisle

Priscilla Queen of the Deser t - The Musical The Sands Centre · Carlisle

Ghost Stories In A Haunted Manor Dalston Hall Hotel · Carlisle

Handbagged Carlisle Green Room, West Walls Theatre Running until the 28th March

Remembering The Oscars Starring Aljaz and Janette The Sands Centre · Carlisle

Giselle The Sands Centre · Carlisle Performing Poetr y and Poetr y Performance The Carlisle Philosophical and Literar y Society

APRIL 05

Frozen 2 St Herber t’s · Carlisle

Film Night with Supper Watermillock Village Hall · Penrith Kendal Mountain Festival on Tour 2020 Rheged · Penrith

COMEDY MARCH 04

Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible The Sands Centre · Carlisle

Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible Kendal Leisure Centre

APRIL

APRIL 11

Jen Brister old fire station · Carlisle

Kiri Pritchard-Mclean: Empathy Pains 16 old fire station · Carlisle 13 18

Stephanie Aird LOLs LIVE - Carlisle , UK Harraby Community Centre · Carlisle

Tea with Oscar Wilde old fire station · Carlisle

Menopause The Musical 2 - Cruising Through Menopause The Sands Centre · Carlisle

Magical Mel’s Easter Ball Crown and Mitre Hotel · Carlisle

A Frozen Journey Dalston Recreational Centre · Carlisle

A Game of Two Halves An Evening With Michael Knighton old fire station · Carlisle

Tea with Oscar Wilde old fire station · Carlisle

Pablo Bloom live in Carlisle! Club Britannia · Carlisle

M AY

6644

THEATRE

Ross Noble: Humournoid The Sands Centre · Carlisle

M AY 03

Seven Drunken Nights – The Stor y of The Dubliners The Sands Centre · Carlisle

For information on all upcoming gigs and events head to www.cumbriaguide.co.uk

W H AT ’ S O N

Handbags At The Ready

he next performance by Carlisle’s Green Room Club is ‘Handbagged’ which was written by Moira Buffini.

The well-stocked and reasonably priced bar is open half an hour before each performance, during the interval and after a show. Coffee, tea and ice cream are also available.

This relatively new play has proven to be a popular choice with professional and amateur theatre groups. Handbagged takes quite a serious look at the Thatcher years, although there is much humour included.

The production runs from March 23 - 28 and starts at 7.30 p.m each night. Tickets are available from the Tourist Information Office at the Old Town Hall. Drop-in, or phone 01228 598596. £9 for adults and £8 for concession.

Over the course of a decade, two of Britain’s most iconic women meet regularly and the play imagines what really happened in the private meetings between the Iron Lady, Margaret Thatcher, and Queen Elizabeth II.

For more information visit www.carlislegreenroom.uk or find them on Facebook @CarlisleGreenRoomClub

They were born only six months apart and each has the capacity to change the world, but how the world should be changed is another story. Will the two powerful women find common ground in tumultuous times? Or will the gloves come off? The production takes the form of real and imagined meetings held at Buckingham Palace. If it’s part of the playwright’s imagination we are soon made aware of the fact by witty asides to the audience - usually given by Liz herself. The play uses two actresses for the Queen and two for Mrs Thatcher and portrays them when Mrs Thatcher became Prime Minister and then in their later years. Two male actors also play another fourteen parts between them. A strong cast has been assembled and the two Queens are Jenny Pike and Janice Nixon while the Thatchers are Sarah Waters and Eva Cook. The two men are club Chairman, David Wood and newcomer to the Green Room - though not to acting - Matt Brown. Theatregoers are ensured a witty and literate evening of theatre with this excellent play directed by club President, John Metcalfe. The Carlisle Guide

W H AT ’ S O N

21 march

egacon, the annual nerd convention for all ages, is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this March and the event at Richard Rose Academy is set to be one of the best yet.

Naturally, there will be the staples of every Megacon in the forms of quizzes, treasure hunts, art competitions, RC racecourses and even a spin on the old classic pin the tail party game but reinvented for the new generation as Pin the Horn on the Unicorn! West Coast and Carlisle Gamers will host various popular trading card tournaments like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh, as well as Console Gaming which will bring Super Smash Bros and Hatsune Miku to this year’s event. Megacon specialises in offering something a little out of the ordinary and this year that role falls to ‘The Exiles’, a local group of martial artists specialising in historical weaponry. They’ll be on hand to demonstrate a variety of techniques with their displays.

Megacon began as an anime gathering in Waterstones but from those humble beginnings, it’s grown and now boasts up to five hundred visitors. Megacon also invites local groups and businesses to take part with a wide array of competitions, tournaments and activities throughout the day. Carlisle based wrestling promotors ‘Target Wrestling’ is putting on an action-packed show while axe-throwers ‘Lumber Lounge’ will be on hand to teach the techniques for the perfect bulls-eye shot. Megacon will also feature a range of merchandise stalls from traders and Cumbria’s most talented and upcoming artists. It goes without saying that if Cosplay is your thing then Megacon will not disappoint. Every year the Cosplay Competitions draw an array of talented fans showing off their inspired creations. Let your imagination run wild and get creative for your chance to take home this year’s winners trophy. The day ends with a free raffle with prizes provided by stallholders, which means some attendees will be heading home extra happy. Megacon is £6 entry and starts noon on Saturday, March 21st at Richard Rose Central Academy. You can find them on Facebook, Twitter and www.megaconcarlisle.co.uk 66

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W H AT ’ S O N

MUSIC / COMEDY /THE ATRE / FILM / OTHER MARCH 07

Grow Minis Houghton Hall Garden Centre · Carlisle

Pop-up café from Janet at Langwathby Station Café. Why not extend your visit and see what’s 1 0 happening in the gardens or take a walk around the wetland? Gosling Sike 11

How Social Mobility Is and Isn’t Working University of Cumbria · Carlisle

Print your own bag. Learn a DIY, accessible way of 1 4 print making suitable for ever ybody Gosling Sike 15

Skate & Cake day 2020 Border City Roller Derby · Carlisle

Eycott Hill Nature Reser ve Meet the grazier walk

Poetr y Group Cakes & Ale · Carlisle

Cumbria Rural Choirs Concer t Carlisle Cathedral

Coffee Morning & Table Top Sale . 10:00 to 12 noon Thursby Parish Hall. C A5 6NX

Ghost Stories In A Haunted Manor Dalston Hall Hotel · Carlisle

3D feltmaking Carlisle Carlisle Business Interaction Centre · Carlisle

Life Drawing Tullie House Museum & Ar t Galler y Trust

Herb wreath workshop with Helen’s Herbs Come and learn how to make your own spring/ 25 Easter wreath using fresh foliage , Gosling Sike

APRIL 01

Eycott Hill Nature Reser ve Guided walk with the Lake District National P a r k

Wild Wednesdays at Gosling Sike Free family drop-in activities for the school 0 1 holidays. Follow The Lost Words garden trail, take par t in free wildlife and Easter-themed activities. Gosling Sike Photography at Gosling Sike Join professional photographer Andrew Heptinstall for a full day photography workshop and learn 03 how to master your DSLR camera. Jargon-free & suitable for beginners. Gosling Sike 04

Easter Dogs Day Out & Fair Oak Tree Animals’ Charity · Carlisle

Sons Of The Deser t, 0 7 Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society Ex Ser vices Mens Club Wild Wednesdays at Gosling Sike Easter-themed activities, ar ts, and crafts, and 0 8 learn how to make your own garden amazing for wildlife! Gosling Sike Pastel ‘painting’ techniques at Gosling Sike Join Alex Jakob-Whitwor th to learn pastel ‘painting’ techniques to respond to the burgeoning of 0 9 spring. Be a Spring Watcher and find out how to express what you see in the bright colours of soft pastels. Gosling Sike 18

Coffee Morning & Table Top Sale . 10:00 to 12 noon Thursby Parish Hall. C A5 6NX

Stand Up Paddle Board Taster Talkin Adventures · Carlisle

Big Dance Cumbria 2020 The Sands Centre · Carlisle

An introduction to Upcycling Mucky Ducky · Carlisle

Speaking to Animals Oak Tree Animals’ Charity · Carlisle

Nor thern Region Question Time Tullie House Museum & Ar t Galler y Trust

Slaves of Venus at The Crown The Crown Inn Stanwix · Carlisle

Access Bars Share Wishing Well Therapies · Carlisle

Weave a Dreamcatcher Yoga 2 9 & Mindfulness Workshop Carlisle Therapies · Carlisle 31

Access Bars Share Wishing Well Therapies · Carlisle

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W H AT ’ S O N

Get Active and Stay Healthy

espite compelling evidence citing the benefits of physical activity, most adults are not active enough.

If physical activity were a drug, it would be called a miracle cure due to the number of illnesses it can prevent and help treat. And the benefits of being active go beyond health implications when it brings people together and contributes to stronger communities. Active Cumbria is the Active partnership for Cumbria and is one of 43 similar organisations across England. Their mission is to improve health and wellbeing across the county with programmes like their Walking for Health Scheme. “Walking is the easiest, most accessible, cost-effective and enjoyable way for people to increase their physical activity,” said Aileen Grant who is Development Officer at Active Cumbria. “We focus on tackling inactivity and supporting people to become more active within their communities. What better way to do this than walking? We love seeing people join our health walks and discovering fantastic scenery on their doorsteps.”

Regular walks are led by trained leaders and they aim to be suitable for people of all ages and abilities. You walk at a pace you find comfortable and everyone is welcome from walkers to buggies and wheelchair users. The walks provide a great opportunity to get out in the fresh air, explore your local area and meet new people. They can also help with feelings of loneliness and isolation which improves mental well-being. Active Cumbria is always on the lookout for new walk leaders and while there are existing groups to join, more often than not, a newly trained Walk Leader will create their own group in their area. No experience is needed as full training and support are provided. Whether you are 18 or 85, everyone should aim to be active every day, any activity is better than none and the walks go a long way to meeting the minimum requirements of 150 minutes each week. Older members will see added benefits as weight-bearing activities help maintain bone health. So get outside this spring and get active. Call 01228 226885 or visit www.activecumbria.org/cumbriawalkingforhealth for more information or find an activity near you at www.activecumbria.org/findyouractivity

W H AT ’ S O N

New event to illuminate the city

5th june

den Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice, will light up the city with a special new event.

On an early summer’s evening, a sea of beautiful lanterns will weave their way through Carlisle during the Hospice Lantern Walk. The poignant event takes place on Friday 5th of June and sees fundraisers carrying a lantern while they remember loved ones and think of those living with a lifelimiting illness. Sam Johnston, Community and Event Fundraiser said: “The Lantern Walk is perfect for all ages and abilities. Two routes will start from Carlisle Racecourse, one will take in the iconic locations of the city centre, whilst a shorter two-mile route takes walkers to the hospice on Durdar Road and back again.”

Fundraisers can leave their lanterns at Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw to remember loved ones. Each lantern will light up the entrance to the hospice and show patients, families, nurses and volunteers the community is thinking about them. Money raised from the Hospice Lantern Walk helps the charity provide care, support and activities to local people with life-limiting illnesses. That care and compassion is extended to the patients’ family, friends and carers. Registration fees for Adults (18+) are £20, Young Adult (16-17) £15, Children (5-15) £10 and Children (Under 5) Free. The entry includes a t-shirt, lantern and medal. Money raised will help provide care now and in the future. To join the Hospice Lantern Walk today visit www.edenvalleyhospice.org or contact the Fundraising Team on 01228 810801

Stanwix Great British Spring Clean

he Great British Spring Clean is the country’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign and Stanwix residents are backing the initiative with a community event.

With the support of Carlisle City Council and local ward councillors, a comprehensive cleanup of the Stanwix area will be held between Monday 23rd and Saturday 28th of March. The Great British Spring Clean is about demonstrating you love where you live – whether that’s by picking litter while you’re walking the dog, taking the kids to school, hosting an event or joining someone else’s. Last year, more than 560,000 people took part nationally and this year organisers are aiming to get 600,000 #LitterHeroes out there. Our combined actions can make a massive difference and transform the country for the better by creating cleaner streets, parks and beaches. Ultimately, much of this tide of litter would find its way into our oceans, which is harmful to the environment, wildlife and marine animals. "Stanwix residents and businesses take great pride in their community and were recognised in last year’s Cumbria in Bloom awards as well as being silver-gilt award winners in Britain in Bloom two years running,” explained Ward Councillor for Stanwix and Houghton, Paul Nedved.

“Both awards celebrate the area’s environmental responsibility and community participation so please get involved and help us tackle the litter, graffiti and fly-tipping.” Community groups and schools have been approached but the success of Stanwix Big Tidy relies on local volunteers taking an active part in a litter-pick on Saturday, 28 March. All #LitterHeroes are asked to meet at Stanwix Community Association Centre, in Church Street at 10 am. The Great British Spring Clean has a simple aim - to inspire people across the country to come together, get active and help clean the litter that blights our towns, villages, countryside and beaches. Together we can make a difference. Contact Cllr Paul Nedved on 07745 302097 if you are interested in organising your own activities as part of Stanwix’s Big Tidy. Or visit www.keepbritaintidy.org if you’d like to organise, or take part, in an event in your area.

Same Event - Different Name

The Kielder Rally

irelli tyres decided not to continue their partnership with the Carlisle rally after the longest-running sponsorship in British motorsport history,

It was a huge blow to the Cumberland Sporting Car Club and their army of volunteers but the rally will still roar around Kielder Forest on the 25th of April. “It’s a shame,” admits media manager Ed Graham. “Pirelli was the headline sponsor for 28 years. When you lose that you need to cut costs wherever you can. We’ve had to scale things back, and unfortunately, there will be no start in Carlisle or finish in Brampton. I’ve been associated with the rally for 45 years and it’s always been based in Carlisle, so it’s a bit like losing one of the family. But everybody is welcome, the course hasn’t changed and it’s still a free event.” Kielder Castle provides the backdrop to the start and finish of the rally this year and it’s hoped over 100 entrants will tackle the highly rated forest course which is the gold standard for the British rallying season. The budget may be reduced but it’s largely the same organising team. It’s the volunteers that make it insists Ed: “There are about 800 people involved, it’s a logistical exercise but we do it because we love motorsport. When you see those cars racing around the course on tight, twisting gravel tracks over blind brows at over 70 miles an hour, it makes it all worthwhile.” The 85-mile course is highly rated by drivers where the longer than average stages means they have a good chance to tear into the course. Tickets are not required and maps are available showing car park locations and safe viewing points. “We’re in 7 different championships this year,” said Ed. “We have two historic championships, an under 25’s driver championship and the army rally team are coming back with their Land Rovers. It will be a great day.” They may have had to cut costs but the rally is worldrenowned and will still draw big crowds into the area. For information and updates visit www.kielderforestrally.co.uk The Carlisle Guide

Avoiding Potential Perils

s spring approaches, the weather improves and we all spend more time outside. Vets4Pets Carlisle has some tips to help keep your pets safe at this time of year.

Slugs and snails are much more common and some pest control products contain a substance called metaldehyde. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extremely poisonous to pets and wild animals; if ingested it causes drooling, twitching, fever, seizures and even death. We would advise not to use any products containing metaldehyde!

Slugs and snails are also carriers of lungworm, a very nasty parasite that can cause serious illness. Fleas, ticks and worms all increase in numbers at this time of year so make sure your pet is up-to-date with parasite treatment. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and amaryllis are in bloom too and these bulbs can cause nasty reactions if eaten. Keep unplanted bulbs and cut flowers away from your pets - and keep a close eye on dogs that like to dig. If you are concerned your pet might have eaten something, call your vet as soon as possible! Just like us, animals can have a range of reactions to bee and wasp stings. They can be painful, itchy and cause redness but can also cause extreme immune reactions with swellings that constrict airways and restrict breathing. Watch for your pet eating dead wasps! If you are concerned your pet has been stung, call your vet for advice. Stingers can be removed by scraping off with a thin blunt object such as a credit card. Applying ice wrapped in a towel to the area can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Always check with your vet before administering any home remedies. As pollens are released at the start of March, dogs and cats can suffer from seasonal allergies. This may cause itching, scratching and redness of the skin, which can lead to sores and infection if left untreated. You can try wiping down your pets after walks to reduce contact with pollens. Speak to your vet about allergy testing and medication to help soothe skin issues. Make sure you follow us on Facebook at Vets4Pets Carlisle or call on 01228 547956 to book an appointment or discuss any concerns.

The Carlisle Guide

Have you visited Oak Tree Animals’ Charity?

ak Tree Animals’ Charity is a centre of expertise that helps the community with advice for their cats, dogs and horses.

From their Wetheral Shields base, the charity also tackles issues like feral cat colonies and animal hoarding, which helps improve animal welfare in our region. Oak Tree is on hand to offer help and advice to pet owners and urges anyone struggling to get in touch. The team works proactively to ensure pets and owners stay together wherever possible, which avoids unnecessary stress for animals and their owners. They work hard to rehome animals like Little Wascal, a miniature Shetland gelding, who came to Oak Tree in very poor condition. He was overweight and had difficulty walking due to overgrown feet. He was put on a strict routine and worked with their farrier to correct his feet. He was always a cheeky pony and Oak Tree was happy to successfully rehome him recently.

PET CORNER

We can achieve so much more together and all money raised will help animals in need. Oak Tree’s Wetheral site is open 7 days a week: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Carlisle Charity Shop is open Tuesday – Saturday: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Keswick Shop is open Tuesday – Sunday: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Keep an eye out for upcoming events by visiting www.oaktreeanimals.org.uk or follow them on social media. Call 01228 560082 to get in contact or email info@oaktreeanimals.org.uk

Oak Tree helped 2,060 animals in 2019 – 520 were rehomed and the charity relies entirely on its supporters to fund their amazing work. There are lots of ways you can help: • Pay a visit to the Tearoom/ Tack Shack/ Bric-a-Brac/ Jigsaw & Book Cave/ Playground or Blackburn Woods at Oak Tree Farm. • Browse Oak Tree’s Charity Shop in the Lanes (near Debenhams) or Keswick (Bell Close) • Volunteer • Hold your very own fundraiser • Sponsor a resident animal • Join their lottery • Donate items to the shops • Consider adopting an animal • Become a fosterer • Make a donation • Spread the word – tell someone you know about this great charity! • Sign up to their regular E-news The Carlisle Guide

Herdies - gardeners of the lakes

he Lake District would look very different without the iconic Herdwick and you’ll spot plenty about at this time of year as the inclement weather brings them off the fells and into the valleys and farms. These unique woolly flocks are vital to the maintenance of the landscape as lovable ‘Herdies’ munch their way through virtually everything from heather to bilberry and bracken. In fact, they are often referred to as the ‘gardeners of the Lake District’. This irreplaceable breed of sheep, with its ‘heafing’ habit, is perfectly suited to its environment. The lambs are taught from birth, by their mothers, which area of the mountain to stay on. There is no need for fences, they keep to their territory which is called a ‘heaf ’. Where any other breed would wander and get lost, Herdwicks will find their way back to their respective farms, even in the most treacherous weather. Herdwicks have such a homing instinct that when a farm is sold, it is bought with the ‘landlord flocks’. 74

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If the future seems secure for the animals, it has not always been the case. This primitive breed was once threatened with extinction. Beatrix Potter, universally known for her children’s books, used her position to draw attention to the problem and her conservationist vision helped to save the breed. Beatrix and her shepherd, Tom Storey, won several prizes for Herdwick breeding and when she died, she bequeathed over 4,000 acres of land and her flock to the National Trust. Herdwicks have a distinctive look. Lambs are born black and as they mature, their fleece turns grey. The name itself derives from the Old Norse herdvyck. People used to speculate about their origins. Were they brought over by the rampaging Vikings or did they swim ashore from the wrecked ships of the Spanish Armada? The recent DNA testing was able to solve the puzzle when a primitive genome found in very few breeds suggests a common ancestral founder in the northern Orkney Islands and Scandinavia. Excerpt from ‘111 Places in the Lake District That You Shouldn't Miss’ by Solange Berchemin, published by www.accartbooks.com/uk

Lacy’s Caves

Wild as a hermit with fish in his hair

ear the village of Little Salkeld five chambers are carved out of the red sandstone cliffs.

Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Lacy of Salkeld Hall commissioned the work and is said to have entertained his guests here. He even had a hermit in residence. It would be interesting to know how a Victorian gentleman formulated his party invitations for such happenings. ‘ See you in my pink cave where a hermit will welcome you’ doesn’t seem quite appropriate.

Lacy’s Caves is also a wild swimming spot. The River Eden is deep here and in the summer it’s not unusual to see the village children jump from a rock stack aptly named ‘The Tower’ or use a mine shaft as a runway to leap into the river. If you are not an experienced wild swimmer, it’s not advisable, as the currents and the shock of the icy cold water can be dangerous.

Created in an age when it was fashionable to own a romantic ruin or two, Lacy’s Caves were originally surrounded by ornamental gardens, rhododendrons and laburnums still line the trail that leads to the cave.

Getting there: Park in Little Salkeld and set off down the farm road in the direction of Lacy’s Caves. Print the route from www.edenrivertrust.org.uk before setting off as the caves can be easily missed. The path is low and if it’s been raining may be cut off.

The red sandstone site itself is listed as a Regionally Important Geological Site by Eden District Council. It is well maintained and public footpaths lead to it. In parts, the main path follows the former line connecting Long Meg Mine with the nearby Railway. Be careful to use the old concrete path and steps as the area is often boggy. If you are after that perfect picture it will require standing below the caves on the riverbank. The walk to the caves is pleasant and relatively easy but the area around them is narrow and tricky to negotiate. The woods are popular with joggers and dog-walkers so there might be someone to help with directions.

The Carlisle Guide

WE HSATTE’ R S NO W N ALKS

Western Walks - Rannerdale Circuit and Bluebells Time: 2.5 - 3 hours Distance: 4.5 miles Ascent: 850 feet / 258 metres Grade: Moderate

annerdale is a picturesque valley between Crummock Water and Buttermere that’s famous for its bluebells that grow, unusually, on open fellside as opposed to their normal woodland habitat.

The starting point for this walk is at the two roadside car parks at Cinderdale Common on the B5289 between Lorton and Buttermere. From here walk 100m up the Cinderdale Beck to the path just above you and turn right. Ford the stream and follow the grassy path up the valley, after 10 minutes or so you will reach the gate leading to the bluebell area. In early to mid-May the Rannerdale Valley turns blue with a beautiful carpet of bluebells. The area is owned by the National Trust, who are the guardians along with the tenant farmers. In recent years measures have been introduced because the display is in decline due to careless feet. 76

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It’s estimated by the that 25% of the plants have been lost in the last 4 years and every time a person steps on the bluebells they crush 7-10 plants which cannot photosynthesise resulting in the plant’s death or a long recovery. We urge anyone visiting Rannerdale at bluebell time to keep to the marked paths. There are plenty of photo opportunities and there’s no need to wander off in search of a better viewpoint. Once you’ve finished admiring the purple display head along the valley to the end of the bluebell area and cross a bridge over Squat Beck, turn right to go down the left-hand bank of the stream. Continue on this path beneath the crags of Rannerdale Knott until you come to the small parking area at Buttermere Hause. Go through the car park and turn left onto the road which runs beside the shores of Crummock Water. Almost immediately take an uphill path on your left which is rocky at first and then becomes grassy. As you ascend ignore two faint grassy paths to your left and keep upwards on the same path. You will come to a junction of paths from which point you can see the Lake of Buttermere. At this point take the path take the path to your left.

OOT AND ABOOT

After a grassy start, the path climbs steeply via a steep rocky staircase before becoming grassy again. Pause to catch your breath here because you can see Loweswater beyond Crummock Water. The path turns to the right in front of a pair of rocky outcrops and winds its way up fairly steeply before bending to the right and it gets a little scrambly in places over rocks. When you reach the summit an excellent vantage point awaits where you can see Crummock Water, the Solway Firth, and if it is clear, across to Scotland. From the summit follow the path past the cairns and along the long undulating rocky ridge with views to Buttermere village and lake. As you near the end of the ridge you will come to a junction of 5 paths. Take the path left to join the valley below and as you meet the path turn left and follow it down the Rannerdale Valley. Cross the bridge you came over at the start of the walk and retrace your steps back down the valley to the car park. This walk is suggested by Andrew Locking who is a keen local fell walker. For more information on his walks visit www.andrewswalks.co.uk Photos by Andrew Locking

The Carlisle Guide

Senhouse Roman Museum’s XXX celebrations

020 will see the Senhouse Roman Museum celebrating its 30th anniversary. Although small in size, the museum is a treat and houses one of the most significant Roman collections in the UK. The history of the collection predates the opening of the museum. It was first recorded by William Camden, an Elizabethan antiquarian, in his ‘Britannia’. Camden visited John Senhouse - who was the owner of Alnburgh, on which the Roman fort and civilian settlement stood - in 1599 to record many of the objects recovered by the Senhouse family. Subsequent members of the Senhouse family continued to add the collection. In 1870 seventeen altars buried in pits were unearthed, which was one of the most significant discoveries in our understanding of Roman Britain. The collection had always been displayed around the house and gardens at Netherhall for the benefit of the Senhouse family and their guests but in 1985 the Senhouse Museum Trust was established to set up a museum to display the collection to the public. At the same time the Victorian Naval Reserve Training Battery - right next to the Roman fort - was standing derelict and available. The building was transferred to the Trust and work began repairing and refurbishing it. It took five years and all the financial reserves of the Trust before the collection was moved from Netherhall and the museum opened to the public in April 1990. 78

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In 1997 the Trust refurbished the Main Gallery and reinterpreted the collection. The redisplay was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, donations from local businesses and individuals. The project included a schools and events programme with activities aimed at children and won the National Heritage Museum of the Year Award 1999 in the 'Shoestring' category. In 2000 the museum's millennium projects included building a watchtower and a four-year programme of geophysical survey of the Roman site. The survey was funded by a grant from Maryport Heritage Trust and many local volunteers were involved. In 2011-15 the Trustees commissioned and funded a five-year excavation at the 1870 findspot of the seventeen altars and an adjacent temple complex. The excavation team included university students and local volunteers. The finds from the excavations, which included another complete altar, were deposited in the museum. The museum has continued to refresh its galleries to include new finds and update its interpretation of the collections following new discoveries. In 2017 the museum partnered with the other Hadrian's Wall museums to develop and produce the dispersed exhibition 'Hadrian's Cavalry'. The exhibition at the Senhouse Roman Museum was inspired by the museum's relief of Epona, the horse goddess.

The museum continues to add to its collections and recent acquisitions include the finds from the Grampus Heritage and Training led community excavations at Papcastle, a selection was included in the 2019 summer exhibition. Highlights from the collections include the collection of military altars, a relief of a fort gateway with an adjacent temple dedicated to Venus, a rare altar dedicated by a woman and an equestrian tombstone. The collection also has a surprising number of Romano-British and native sculptures including the enigmatic Serpent Stone and a relief depicting Epona, the horse goddess.

Come along and join us for our 30th-anniversary celebrations which begins with a conference in April (Celebrating Roman West Cumbria), a summer exhibition spotlighting the stars of the collections, a community research project looking at the Senhouse Women and their impact on the town of Maryport and a birthday party for the Friends of the Museum. Further details about the museum and the 30th-anniversary events can be found on the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website: www.senhousemuseum.co.uk

Over the last thirty years, the museum has grown its exhibition, events and learning programmes and visitor numbers have increased. From 2020 the Trustees, staff and volunteers will explore options for securing the museum's future into the next thirty years.

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