Northants ma16 by The Village Emporium

March/April 2016 The

Northants Edition

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illage Emporium Delivering local business to local people

Delivering since 2005 Photograph by Barefoot Photographic

SIMPLY STUNNING PET & COUNTRY PHOTOGRAPHY

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www.villageemporium.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ 01788 298 050

The

illage Emporium HOW TO ADVERTISE

The booking deadline for the May/June 2016 issue is 12th April.

Hand delivered to10,500 homes and businesses every issue. For more info call us on: 01788 298050 or send us an email: info@villageemporium.co.uk

The Village Emporium, iCon Environmental Innovation Centre, Eastern Way Daventry NN11 0QB

Registered in England No. 5201035 The views and opinions expressed in The Village Emporium including those claims and opinions expressed in any advertisements are independent of, and do not necessarily reflect, the views and opinions of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy of the advertisements placed by advertisers. Editorial material does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publishers and neither editorial nor advertisements are to be read as recommendations on the part of the publishers. All advertisements and editorial are published in good faith and advertisers are asked to provide advertisements that are accurate, legal and honest. The Village Emporium is a registered trade mark of Emporium Publications Ltd

Welcome to The Village Emporium March/April 2016 Well the daffodils were out in January, so let’s hope spring will still bring us fresh buds of growth and we can enjoy some seasonal colours and welcome lighter mornings and nights. Remember to change your clocks on March 27th and of course the same weekend is Easter. The Team at Village Emporium wish you and your families a very Happy Easter - take a look inside at how to make your own Easter Eggs! (Send us your pictures if you make some )

illage Emporium 11- 12th June 2016 TOWCESTER FOOD FESTIVAL An event not to be missed! By promoting your company in the Towcester Food Festival Guide your business will be seen by over 20,000 people. Don’t miss out. Call us to find out more on 01788 298050. LIMITED SPACE BOOK NOW!

@EmporiumVillage

More features, recipes, competitions and offers online at

www.villageemporium.co.uk

Contents 4 Your garden 16 Your family 20 Look good, feel good 24 On the road

24 Your home 46 Business matters 50 Out & about 64 Whats On?

Features

Ali son, Cla re & Su e The

thevillageemporiummagazine

6 March/April Gardening Tips 14 Organise your life 18 Addictive Fitbit 22 Why do we eat Chocolate eggs at Easter 26 The Smallest Room 30 A Good Read 33 Finding a good tradesman 34 The Art of Wallpaper 40 Fire Safety Tips 48 Geocaching on Holiday 54 Wardrobe Inbetweeners 56 Bishops Court on Your Doorstep 59 Shopping Vouchers 60 Travel In Style with SB2 70 The Perfect Getaway 72 A Drop of the Black Stuff

Brain teasers 7, 10, 12, 13, 20, 66

Recipes

COMPETITIONS 8 Win a half day course at Greenacres Farm 50 Win a 3 course dinner for 2,

with a bottle of house wine at the award winning Old Kings Head, Long Buckby.

January/February issue Competition winners Mrs E Goodwin, Dunchurch - Grafton Spa Mrs R Jones – Spratton - Book voucher

23, 42, 46 2

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your garden

Get your garden in shape with a nicenfriendly company!

READY FOR A

TRANSFORMATION

A BERRIDGE & SON Quality contractors, friendly service

paving stonework walls brickwork sheds patios decking drives fencing turfing

Professional pressure washing for the effective removal of dirt, grim, stains, algae, moss and weeds from all types of hard surfaces including drives, paths, parking areas, decking and patios.

• • • • • • • • • •

landscaped

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE

01327 878713 01788 890652

FOR A FREE QUOTE CALL ROD ON:

01327 312277 r.honess@nicenstripy.com www.nicenstripy.com

Fencing

Block Paving Patios Decking FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE CALL BEN ON: 07973 137033 EMAIL: btberridge@gmail.com ALL WORK GUARANTEED WE ARE A LOCAL COMPANY WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK - A BERRIDGE & SON

a division of the trusted nicenstripy group

Garden sheds Potting sheds Chalets Playhouses Tidy stores Custom sheds

FREE delivery & assembly on ALL sale sheds

•

RHS RHS qualified qualified

•

Female Female gardener gardener

•

Border Border and and lawn lawn care care and maintenance maintenance

•

Call us now on 01858 575618 or buy online at www.insheds.co.uk

Pruning and and general general Pruning tidy up work tidy up work Garden planning Garden planning and design and design

Consultation HedgecuttingService

M: 07449 M: 07449 678489 678489 E: kim@beautiful-borders.co.uk

W: www.beautiful-borders.co.uk W: www.beautiful-borders.co.uk

Woodside Farm - Stanford Road - Welford - Northamptonshire - NN6 6HG Tel. 01858 575 618 - Email. sales@insheds.co.uk

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your garden

March/April Gardening Tips The months of March and April signal the start of spring and hopefully warmer weather allowing us back into the garden to get busy preparing seed beds, sowing seeds, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up around the garden.

March Order your seed potatoes as they will need time to chit before planting out. Leave them in a cool, bright room to encourage the eyes then plant later in the month, moulding up once planted will prevent frost damage and save a job later on. Choose a sunny position and plant onions and shallots in the second half of the month. Prepare seed beds and then you can sow sweet peas, beetroot, broad beans, leeks, peas and carrots. Look out for frosts and protect with fleece where new shoots appear, this also helps keep the pesky slugs at bay!! Sow wildflower seeds where you have poor soil, they encourage bees and butterflies, and add colour too. Complete the pruning of wisteria, dogwood (cornus), summer-flowering clematis and

buddleia. Remove up to a third of stems back to old wood on forsythia and jasmine as soon as the flowers have faded, this will promote fresh new wood for next year. Keep on top of weeds, start feeding fish again and open the greenhouse and give it a good scrub with hot, soapy water.

April Daffodils are up (or may have come and gone in January!!) and trees start to blossom. April brings showers but with sunny days too, you can turn your attention to the lawn. Now is a good time to start laying turf, or prepare ground if you want to sow lawn seed.

Sudoku Place the numbers 1-9 exactly once in each row, column and bold-lined jigsaw region.

Lift and divide perennial plants now such as sedums, hostas and primroses after they have finished flowering. Plant herbaceous perennials and summer-flowering bulbs such as lilies, gladiolus and ranunculus into beds, borders and containers So get your forks, spades and rakes out and enjoy some fresh air and exercise as the season begins in earnest.

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Your family

THE GROOM ROOM at Kilsby Cattery

A dentist who can meet the demands of your busy life

The Groom Room is totally separate from the cattery, therefore our cat guests will neither see nor hear any dogs.

· Family friendly practice · Children seen free · Affordable private dentistry · Same day emergency appointments

Proprietor: Kim Vandervell, Malt Mill House Malt Mill Close, Kilsby, CV23 8XN 01788 824132 e: info@kilsbycattery.co.uk

Call us on: 01327 842815 www.longbuckbydental.com

PROFESSIONAL, FULLY QUALIFIED PET GROOMERS Tel: 07736 299554

www.kilsbycattery.co.uk e: thegroomroom@kilsbycattery.co.uk

You can now enter our competitions online at

www.villageemporium.co.uk

Win a Half Day Course at Green Acres Farm Green Acres Farm in Daventry now have a new training kitchen fitted which they will be using for new culinary courses which include – Basic Cookery Skills, An Introduction to Bread Making and Artisan Bread Making. Plus Basket Making Courses. Up to 8 people at one time.

To win answer the following question... What ingredient makes bread rise? The winner will be selected from all correct answers on 12th April 2016 How to enter

By email to takepart@villageemporium.co.uk and pop your answer in the subject box, providing telephone number and home address in the body of the email, or by post iCon Environmental Innovation Centre, Eastern Way, Daventry, NN11 0QB.

prise Centre oﬀers informal educa�onal le to learn to grow and cook their own food sure that peoplemention stay engaged Please Thewith Village Emporium when responding to adverts 8 young elop a work ethic and a healthy lifestyle

Sylvia Louise Bentley, Principal Dentist

Andrew McSweeney, Associate Dentist

We supply an extensive range of school, club & dancewear

Scout & Guide Uniforms

Dancewear Bags

Shoes

Socks

Leotards 01327 700069 www.scallywagz.co.uk

82 High Street, Daventry NN11 4HU

Schoolwear 2–18 Years Also stockists for: Abbey Church of England Academy Ashby Fields Primary School Ashlawn School Academy Trust Badby C of E Primary School Barby C of E Primary School Braunston C of E Primary School Danetre & Southbrook Learning Village Falconer’s Hill Infant School Falconer’s Hill Academy Guilsborough School Kilsby C of E Primary School Newnham Primary School Southam College The Parker E-ACT ACADEMY West Haddon Primary School

Our opening hours are: Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm CLOSED WEDNESDAY Saturday 9:30am to 4:30pm

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Special Occasion? Choose the perfect outfit from

Your family

our beautiful children’s range of:

Number Square

For those Special moments

Enter the remaining numbers from 1-9 once in each of the empty squares to complete the sums correctly. Perform calculations from left to right and top to bottom, not in strict mathematical order.

x x

÷ +

+ x

Wear

Stockists of.. Sarah Louise, Mayoral, Emile et Rose, Timberland

Co-educational Day and Boarding Preparatory School, near Rugby

Great range of childrens clothing for weddings & special occasion

18 26

01788 570555 Special Occasion? 8 Albert Street, Rugby CV21 2RS

Burcote Road, Towcester, Northamptonshire NN12 6JW

Plum Park Farm, Paulerspury Northamptonshire NN12 6LQ

Tel: 01327 350239 towcester-vets.co.uk

Tel: 01327 811007 Tel: 01327 344999 towcester-vets.co.uk/equine/ weedon-vets.co.uk

• High quality diagnostic facilities. • Friendly routine care and advice. • Advanced surgical services including keyhole surgery.

The Bungalows, Watling Street, Weedon, NN7 4QQ.

Choose the perfect outfit from our beautiful range of:  Gorgeous Onley Grounds Farm, Willoughby, christening wear

Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 8AJ

Tel: 01788 523000  Stunning onley-equine-vets.co.uk

bridesmaid dresses

• Mobile diagnostic services and free  Jacket and zone visits for equine clients. waistcoat suits • 24 hour emergency veterinary cover  Communion Wear by our own vets.

YOUR ANIMALS, OUR VETS, ALL THE TIME New collections from , Sarah Louise, Mayoral, Emile et Rose and much more...

Open Morning 12 March

and waistcoat suits

+ -

 Jacket

bridesmaid dresses

Magical memories, Learning for life

3 6

 Stunning

christening wear

 Communion

+ x

 Gorgeous

Your family

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

8 Albert Street, Rugby CV21 2RS

01788 570555

New collections from Sarah Louise, Mayoral, Emile et Rose and much more... 8 Albert Street,

Rugby CV21 2RS

01788 570555 www.biltongrange.co.uk

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

advertisers advertisers advertisers advertisers

F W REE ILL

Your family

ding to advertisers

M. MORRISS M. MORRISS MORRISS M. Moira Morriss M. MORRISS STONECARVERS STONECARVERS STONECARVERS Memorials STONECARVERS monumental monumental Masons Masons

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We care when you can’t be there

Office: 01604 889 841 Mobile: 07453 323 922 david@rafterwills.co.uk www.rafterwills.co.uk

Home visits with no Memorial cleaning andbrochures renovation Home visits with no obligation. obligation. Please telephone for or service further available details Please telephone brochures or CV23 further8XY details 6 Smarts Estate,for Kilsby. Rugby. Please telephone for brochures or further details Please Tel telephone for brochures or 987649 further details 01788 824129 or 07752

Love your local

Across

Down 2 Odour, scent (5) 3 Group of houses, rural community (7) 4 The Beatles sang about a yellow one! (9) 5 As well, also (3) 6 Coveted film award (5) 7 Dashing, debonair (7) 11 Dictionary of synonyms and antonyms (9) 13 Shakespearean play (7) 15 House of ill repute! (7) 17 Bramley, Granny Smith, Cox (5) 19 Extra-terrestrial (5) 21 Container, vessel (3)

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Delivering local business for local people

www.villageemporium.co.uk

Spring Fields, 9 Spring Hill Farm, Harborough Road, Pitsford, Northampton. NN6 9AA

1 Material used to make tents (6) 5 Skimpy knickers! (6) 8 Earth, compost (4) 9 Green vegetable (8) 10 Bendy fruit (6) 11 Hard yellowish tooth deposit (6) 12 Area, region (4) 14 Frozen water (3) 15 Nip, chomp (4) 16 Expression, brief utterance (6) 18 Lightweight waterproof jacket (6) 20 Sticky insect trap (8) 22 Barrage, bombardment (4) 23 Undercover, secret (6) 24 Brine (6)

Dog Walking l Pet Sitting l Holiday Boarding l Pet Photography

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Crossword

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6 info@stonecarvers.co.uk Smarts Estate, Kilsby. Rugby. CV23 8XY www.stonecarvers.co.uk 6 Smarts Estate, Kilsby. Rugby. CV23 8XY 66 Smarts Estate, Kilsby. Tel 01788 824129 orRugby. 07752 CV23 9876498XY Smarts Estate, Kilsby. Rugby. Tel 01788 824129 or 07752 CV23 9876498XY info@stonecarvers.co.uk www.stonecarvers.co.uk Tel 01788 824129 or 07752 987649 Tel 01788 824129 or 07752 987649 www.moiramorrissmemorials.co.uk info@stonecarvers.co.uk www.stonecarvers.co.uk info@stonecarvers.co.uk www.stonecarvers.co.uk info@stonecarvers.co.uk www.stonecarvers.co.uk moira.morriss@btopenworld.com

Is it time to call a dog walker?

Sudoku 2 9

6 8 1

5 3

1 1

4 2

2 1

8 5 3 2

5 6

Is your life on fast forward? Just press pause … Everybody needs a will and now is the perfect opportunity to sort yours out and it may even be Free if you purchase one of our Funeral Plans.*

• Simple Wills (single/mirror) • Property Trust Wills • Lasting Power of Attorney • Guardianship of Children • Funeral Plans (pre paid) • Probate Our friendly, expert advisor will come to your home at a time that suits you and will demonstrate how to protect your assets for your family. Life is so unpredictable... There is no better time than now to STOP and RECORD your wishes. Call Assured Wills now for a free, no obligation Information Pack on 03330 111 751 or email infopack@assured-wills.co.uk www.assured-wills.co.uk

Jigsaw Sudoku Place the numbers 1-9 exactly once in each row, column and bold-lined jigsaw region.

*This offer excludes Direct Cremation Funeral Plans and applies to Simple Wills only.

Feature

Organise Your Life

Some people seem to be born more organised than the rest of us, but we can all develop habits that will make for a more organised and productive life. Here are five to consider. Write Things Down Don’t try to remember everything. From shopping lists or ideas for home decor, to important family or business dates, or goals you’d like to achieve - write them down! Do It Now The longer you wait to do something, the more difficult it will become. Putting in the effort to get things done as soon as possible will make your life less stressful and less demanding. Give Everything a Home Knowing where to find a thing saves time and frustration. Decide where things belong, label the space if necessary but NEVER designate a storage space as “miscellaneous!”

Saturday 16th April 2016 Staverton Park County Suite 7pm for 7:30 Meal Carriages at 1.00am

Get Rid of Clutter Schedule regular clear outs to go through the items in your inbox, cupboards or drawers. Only keep things you really need and use, which will clear the way for greater creativity and productivity. Delegate Responsibilities Whether at home or work, delegate as much as you can. Organised people know how to share the load. No person can do everything, but everyone can do something. This is a great way to help others grow and develop too.

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3 Course Meal Live Band, Music and Charity Auction £40 Per Person, Tables of 10 Available Dress Code: Black Tie and Ball Gowns In aid of

Tel: 01327 876007 mick@ alltranzltd.co.uk www.alltranzltd.co.uk

Look good, feel good

Enjoy skinny dipping on holiday? Therapies to help you relax, release tension and restore equilibrium REFLEXOLOGY INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE

For more information or to book your appointment contact Bee Burton MAR on 01858 440375 or 07827 290973 email: info@therapybee.co.uk

www.therapybee.co.uk

Join Northampton Sun Group

Give your business a boost!

at the Mounts Baths for a friendly and sociable welcome.

Swimming, sauna, Tracy Dixon BSc(Hons)M.C.S.P steam room and hot rooms.

Advertise here from just £19 per month for an 1/8th page and reach 30,000 homes

Private Ring Carol on Community Physiotherapist

Call 01788 298050 or email info@villageemporium.co.uk

Interested?

08707 654326 (Home Visits or membership@nsgswim.org.uk

only) 16 years of clinical experience (9 years NHS experience) Elderly Rehabilitation Post-Stroke Rehabilitation Neurological Elderly Rehabilitation Conditions HeadRehabilitation & Spinal injuries Post-Stroke Neurological Conditions Exercise Therapy Head & Spinal injuries Joint and Muscle problems

Tracy Dixon BSc(Hons)M.C.S.P Tracy Dixon BSc(Hons)M.C.S.P !

Private Community Physiotherapist

(Home VisitsPhysiotherapist only) Private Community 16 years of clinical experience (Home (9 Visits only) years NHS experience) ! experience 16 years of clinical Elderly Rehabilitation (9 years NHS experience) Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

• • • • • Exercise Therapy • Joint and Muscle problems

Osteopaths don’t just treat back pain – we can help with pain related to pregnancy, pelvic pain, sports injuries, neck pain, recurrent headaches, joint pain, sciatica and other nerve problems. Patients have also found ! osteopathy helpful for digestive issues, circulatory problems, neuralgia, Yelvertoft, Northamptonshire, NN6 6LQ sleeping problems amongst many others. Yelvertoft, Northamptonshire, NN6 6LQ Tel: 01788

822736 Call now to discuss your symptoms with one of our experienced Osteopaths (Answering Machine on at all times) Tel: 01788 822736 (Answeringtracy.dixon3@btinternet.com Machine on at all times)

Yelvertoft,

Northamptonshire, NN6 6LQ

Tel: 01788 822736

Please mentionMachine The Village when responding to adverts (Answering on at allEmporium times) tracy.dixon3@btinternet.com

tracy.dixon3@btinternet.com

Neurological Conditions Head & Spinal injuries Exercise Therapy Joint and Muscle problems

Can an Osteopath help you?

No need to wait. You can be seen within 24 hours. Call now or visit

www.brixworthosteopaths.co.uk

Quote VE16 to receive 10% off your initial consultation

01604 889241 | info@brixworthosteopaths.co.uk Brixworth Osteopathic Clinic, Catherine House, Harborough Road, Brixworth, Northants.NN6 9BX

Look good, feel good

I specialise in the following areas:

What change would improve your life?

Does anxiety or stress shape your day? Is your enjoyment of life tainted by fear or phobia? l Do you lack confidence or suffer from low self esteem? l Is your enjoyment of life limited by constant or restrictive pain? l Is your life restricted through irritable bowel syndrome? l Would you like more control over eating habits, or to stop smoking? l

Doing the same as you have always done, will bring the same results it always has...or together, we could make that change happen. Book an appointment online or find more information at

The Addictive Fitbit Want to make sure you’re completing your 10,000 steps a day, or looking to improve your training? An activity tracker can help. The FitBit is probably the best known brand on the market, with several models to choose from: The entry level Zip, at around £50, tracks your steps, distance walked and calories burned. “So it’s a fancy pedometer then?” I hear you ask. Well, yes, basically, but it’s more responsive and you can sync it to your computer or smartphone to see your activity presented as a graph. This makes it much easier to monitor your activity levels over time and track you progress. The Zip also acts as a watch, and there are various other extras, such as the ability to log your food intake. Feel like you’re getting your full eight hours of sleep, but still feel tired? You might want to opt for One or Flex, which track your sleep as well as your activity. They also have silent alarms, to wake you up, but not your partner. One clips onto your clothing, while Flex is worn like a watch. There are some differences in what they offer – Flex doesn’t have a clock, for example. Charge is similar to Flex, in that you wear it like a watch, but it comes with some added extras, such as a clock. If your phone is nearby and it rings, the caller ID will come up on the Charge display. It also has a better battery life, of up to 10 days.

www.daventryhypnotherapy.co.uk Su Ricks-McPherson Church Street, Charwelton, NN11 3YT

Telephone 0800 756 6558

Charge HR is designed for people who work out regularly, as it can recognise different exercises, and has an automatic heart-rate monitor to help maximise your training. Top of the range is Surge, at around £200. It’s been designed for people who are really serious about their sports performance, and want to monitor every aspect of their training. For instance, you can track the route you’re running using GPS. You can also control music and read texts that come through to your smartphone. So which one to go for? Well Zip is a great choice if you just want to check whether you’re walking those recommended 10,000 steps a day. If you cycle, run, or enjoy another sport, you’ll want to opt for a more advanced model. Now, a warning… It is possible to get ever so slightly obsessed with the FitBit. You can easily find yourself checking it hundreds of times a day, which can distract you from real life, and you can find yourself pushing ever harder, unnecessarily. On the positive side, it does encourage you to increase your activity levels and build up your fitness. Like so much in life, the key is moderation.

Tempted? Head to: www.fitbit.com

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I am a member of the Counselling Society and have worked as a bereavement Counsellor for Cruse. I am experienced in working with children and am able to offer family and play therapy. To discuss your needs further please contact me on 0779 2361244 Email l.williams212@ btinternet.com Louise Williams Dip. Hyp, Dip. CP, Adv. Dip. CP

Come and try Nordic Walking

By working together I will support you every step of the way to get you back to being you. I practise in an integrative way recognising that as individuals one approach does not suit all. I offer an initial consultation and am happy if preferred to travel to your home as many clients feel more comfortable in an environment they are familiar with.

recover / strength / prevent Free Workshops take place once a month at Crick Medical Practice... a 2 hours session with the support of a GP presenting on the technical aspect of Pelvic Floor Exercise and Tina demonstrating exercises. Suitable for ladies of all ages.

The work out that tones your whole body! • Burns up to 40% more calories than ordinary walking • Great for neck, shoulder and back problems • Easy on the knees and joints • Suitable for all levels • Sociable, safe, outdoor exercise

Tina Sheridan

• Bereavement • Depression • Stress • Anxiety • Low Self Confidence • Low Self Esteem • Panic Disorder • Addiction

Licensed Zumba & Zumba Gold Instructor STOTT Pilates Certified Instructor Registered Excercise Professional

You can book Tina on a 1:1 basis, available in the comfort of your home if required.

Call Tina on 07810 380636 Email tinx62@yahoo.co.uk

www.tinapilates.co.uk

Recommended by Local Orthopaedic Consultants And Physiotherapists Courses throughout the week including evenings and Saturday mornings at: • Whilton Mill • Daventry • Long Buckby • Ravensthorpe

NOW MONDAY NIGHTS West Haddon Village Hall 8pm-9m £5 per session

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

On the road

Professional, friendly service!

YOUR LOCAL VW, AUDI, SEAT & SKODA SPECIALIST

• Servicing - Quality & reliable servicing on all makes/models • Diagnostics - vehicle diagnosis and fault code reading • MOT’s - we will arrange an MOT at your convenience • Repairs - clutches, exhausts, & batteries supplied and fitted • Tyres - puncture repairs, wheel balancing, tracking & new tyres •

Plus much more... Call today on 01788 891977

Visit us: Cross Lane, Braunston, Nr. Daventry, NN11 7HH Tel: 01788 891977 Opening Times: Monday - Friday: 8am to 6pm Saturday: 8am to 12noon

For more information about our services visit: www.braunstongarage.co.uk

Sudoku

MOT Tests just £39

With FREE re-test within 10 days if required

DO YOU KNOW WHEN THE CAMBELT ON YOUR CAR SHOULD BE CHANGED! ? Cambelts are one of the biggest maintenance items your car will have; typically VW Group vehicles should have their cambelts changed every 5 years. If they are left they run the risk of failure, upon which the repair costs are far higher than the cost of changing the cambelt. It is best practice to change the water pump whilst changing the cambelt kit as this may save labour costs further down the line.

We now do AirCon Regassing

Give your business a boost! Advertise here from just £19 per month for an 1/8th page and reach 30,000 homes

Call 01788 298050 or email info@villageemporium.co.uk

DURING MARCH WE ARE OFFERING 10% OFF CAMBELT KIT REPLACEMENTS AND WATER PUMPS!! If you’re unsure of whether your car needs it cambelt changing, please call us and we can help you find out!

CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE Tel: 01788 542555 E-mail: info@vasstech.co.uk Web: www.vasstech.co.uk

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK SEARCH: VASSTECH AUTO SERVICES

VASSTECH Auto Services Ltd, 35-36 Webb Ellis Industrial Estate, Woodside Park, Rugby CV21 2NP

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*Offers subject to change without notice and cannot be used in conjunction with other offers. T&Cs apply. Please see website for details.

Feature

Simple Chocolate Button Egg.. Make your own Easter Eggs, It’s much easier than you think and you can add your own personal touch!

Why do we eat chocolate eggs at Easter? As you tuck into your tasty chocolate eggs this Easter, you may wonder what significance they have on this most important of Christian holidays. Though chocolate eggs are a very modern custom, decorating eggs actually predates Christianity with some of the earliest examples being engraved ostrich eggs found in Africa dating from 60,000 years ago. However, the Catholic custom could well have pagan origins. In Christianity, the egg symbolises the rebirth of Jesus but they have long had this significance in pagan festivals and spring celebrations. When Easter was first celebrated, Christians adopted the egg symbol with the broken shell of the egg compared to the opening of Jesus’ tomb during his resurrection. This, in turn, symbolises the rebirth of mankind. The tradition may also have been developed for practical reason, as it was customary for

Christians to abstain from eating eggs during Lent. Since eggs are easier than many foods to preserve without refrigeration, they were often eaten to break the fast on Easter Sunday. So just when and where did Easter eggs turn chocolate? They first appeared in France and Germany in the 19th century. However, it was the famous John Cadbury right here in England who helped propel the chocolate egg into the mainstream in 1875. Cadbury’s first eggs were made out of dark chocolate but milk chocolate incarnations were launched in 1905 and soon became bestsellers.

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Ingredients

For the egg 200g good-quality dark chocolate, plus a little extra for decorating (we used Green & Black’s 82%) To decorate 25g bag chocolate button 25g bag white chocolate button, with speckles Ribbon, approx 50 cm long Special equipment 2 chocolate egg moulds, clean flat pastry brush or small paintbrush

Method

1. Break the chocolate into pieces and gently melt in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir until smooth, then take off the heat and leave until cool, but still runny. Spoon a quarter of the chocolate into one of the egg moulds and spread thickly over the inside with a flat pastry brush or paintbrush. Be sure to cover the sides well, as this makes it easier to join the edges. Check that the chocolate is even by holding the mould up to the light. Repeat with the other mould. Leave in a cool place to set, and then chill for 5 mins.

2. Re-warm the remaining chocolate and repeat the process for each side of the mould, saving about 1 tbsp of chocolate for later. Use a knife to scrape away any excess around the rim of the mould to give a clean, straight edge. Turn out each half onto a sheet of greaseproof paper, carefully pulling away the mould until it releases itself. 3. Place one half of the egg on its back (you can create a nest of scrunched greaseproof paper to stop it from rolling about). Warm the reserved chocolate and brush around the edge of the egg. Place the other half on top and press together. You can seal the join further by brushing with a little more chocolate and filling in any jagged edges or holes. Leave in a cool place to set firm. To decorate, use the paintbrush to dab a little chocolate on the backs of the chocolate buttons. Gently press them onto the egg. For the finishing touch, tie the ribbon around the middle to hide the join.

TIP: Putting the egg halves in the fridge once the chocolate has set makes it easier to add another layer of warm chocolate. Don’t be tempted to leave the moulds in the fridge any longer than necessary as condensation could cause the chocolate to discolour. Claire Hopkins @ lovemrsh. .... @ Delishkitchenrugby winner of Pride of Rugby Hospitality Business of the Year 2013 and 2014. Finalists 2015 Business Person of the Year , Business of the Year & Hospitalty business of the year

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Your home

David Sleight Conservation

Specialists in the conservation and repair of traditional and listed buildings Sympathetic repairs to brickwork, stone masonry, plasterwork and cob. Ex-English Heritage craftsman

sleightconservation.co.uk 01858 571006 - 07980 702121

THE GUILD OF MASTER CHIMNEY SWEEPS Powering chimney sweeping into the 21st Century

Cloudy2Clear Windows, the Northampton based window repair company, are revolutionising how homeowners view double glazing in our area. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as customers take advantage of their services. Managing Director Trevor Skidmore is more than happy to explain the process. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. I find people are amazed at just

how simple the process is and the speed with which we can replace the glass. This isn’t like when you have new frames put in with people levering out the old ones with loads of mess. We can pop the old glass out and deliver, effectively, a brand new window within a matter of minutes. At the end of the day most frames, even timber ones, will last forever. It’s very rare we come across a window that needs a full replacement and that means the customer gets, effectively, a new window at a fraction of the cost.’

www.cloudy2clear.co.uk. For example, he recently completed an installation at Mr Miners house in Northampton. Here’s what he had to say. ‘I have to say that I thought the service Cloudy2Clear offer compared to having completely new windows absolutely incredible value. The service was reliable, simple and without complication.

The windows look absolutely brilliant and installation was incredibly quick. Thank you!’ High praise indeed! So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Trevor a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be more than happy to help!

Trevor is rightly proud too of comments he receives back from satisfied customers, a selection of which he has put on his website

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0800 61 21118 www.cloudy2clear.com ...we make saving money perfectly clear... www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your home

The Smallest Room The loo, we’ve all got one, so here are some fun facts about what is probably the smallest room in your house. The god son of Queen Elizabeth I, James Harrington, invented the toilet in 1596. Whilst many associate Thomas Crapper with the creation his role was in increasing its popularity and inventing related items such as the ball cock. The average person will spend three whole years of their life sitting on the toilet.

There is a theme park and museum dedicated to the toilet in South Korea. The majority of people like their toilet paper to hang over the roll not under. Toilet brushes are manufactured using the same technology as artificial Christmas trees. The White House has 35 toilets.

A public toilet can host up to 40,000 germs at any one time. A study by the charity Tearfund found that 8 million people in the UK admitted to using their mobile phone whilst on the loo.

The world’s fastest toilet goes at 55mph. It was invented by plumber Colin Furze and is powered by a motorbike engine.

At the end of April and after many years of installation service, Just Stoves Ltd is closing its showroom and Tim is hanging up his ladders. However, Tim and Rachel are still very much in business offering stove servicing, spares and repairs.

SALE

During March & April we will be selling off all stock

If you have a stove from Euroheat, Hwam, Rika, Stovax, Woodwarm, Hunter and Yeoman we are the people for you. Rachel will also be organising the usual home deliveries of kiln dried logs from Certainly Wood. We can still be contacted on 01788 823823 or by e-mail at juststoves@btconnect.com You can expect the same reliable and competent level of service and advice.

Rachel and Tim would like to take this opportunity to thank all their customers for their loyalty and support over the last 13 years.

World toilet day is celebrated on 19th November!

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Advertorial

Your home

Ideal Tanks & Pumps Ltd. Supply & Installation of all types of oil storage tanks for domestic & commercial use. • OFTEC registered engineers advise and install • All Aspects of the work undertaken as required Tanks, Plastic or Steel, Single skin or bunded Tank Cleaning Pipework to boiler Fittings & Ancillary equipment Bases & Plinths for tanks Removal of old tanks & oil Transter of oil Testing of tanks and oil pipes Extra long tank fill points for those difficult to reach tanks Over 50 years of experience and expertise

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For a FREE SURVEY call 01604 372 027 or 07827 974375 or email rick@windowrepairgeeks.co.uk

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Feature

A Good Read The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan Growing up in a typical English town this novel made a huge impact on me when I first read it. The colourful characters seem such a world apart from what I was familiar with and yet it is a story about all of our lives and a woman’s relationship with her mother.

In 1949 four Chinese immigrant women in San Francisco agree to meet up each week to play mah-jong, calling themselves the Joy Luck Club. Here they discuss the lives they left behind in China and the dreams and hopes they have for their daughters as they embark on their new lives in America. Whilst not strictly speaking short stories, each chapter tells a different aspect of their lives. The first half of the book tells of the lives of the women in the Joy Luck Club. We learn of their lives in China. AnMei Hsu whose mother left her to become a concubine to a rich merchant and Lindo Jeng who was forced to marry someone she didn’t love. We then learn of their daughters and their new lives growing up in America, in a culture that seems alien to the world their mothers are describing. Here lies the clash of cultures which leads to friction between mother and daughter. The older generation feel as if they are losing their daughters to American culture and the younger generation do not feel as if anything their mothers talk about is relevant to their lives. Sound familiar? You don’t need to be a Chinese immigrant or growing up in America to relate to the universal themes that Tan weaves into her debut novel. It is about learning to understand the people that fill our lives and accepting that they only have our best interests at heart. It is about learning that our parents too are real people, arriving in the present through a series of events that have shaped them and made us who we are too.

Emily Feather and the Enchanted Door by Holly Webb

Have you ever felt as if you just don’t fit in? Where even your own family seems different to you? This is how ten-year-old Emily Feather feels. She looks different to her siblings with her dark hair. It is true that everyone looks a bit different (even her older twin sisters aren’t identical) but Emily just can’t shake the feeling that there is something about her that sets her apart from the rest of the family. Her best friend Rachel points out that she is the only one not named after a bird, but surely there is more to it than that? Emily lives in an unusual house. Her dad, Ash, is an author, writing fantasy books. The house seems as if it could have come straight out of one of his books. Her room is in the old attic at the top of a rickety flight of stairs, with ornately carved mirrors on the landing. Sometimes it even feels as if the walls have moved: but that would be silly as Emily knows that can’t happen. One day she is passing one of the mirrors and sees a strange reflection in it. A girl with green skin is staring back at her and that is just the start of a series of events that will completely change Emily’s life. It turns out that she was right. She IS different from the rest of her family, but not in any way she could have possibly imagined. Holly Webb is better known for her novels books about animals and has written over 90 books for children. However this book, the first in a new magical series, shows that she is just as adept at writing about fantasy worlds. Aimed at readers aged 8+ this is a lovely introduction to traditional fairy mythology. It does take a while to get going and the titular enchanted door doesn’t appear until the final quarter of the book. This is clearly intended to introduce the reader to Emily’s world which is then explored in future books.

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Your home

You’d be Baa..me to miss the next issue. Booking deadline 13 April 2016. Call 01788 298050 to find out more.

A. STEEL PLUMBING AND HEATING Fully qualified plumber of 7 years All aspects of plumbing undertaken Emergency call out Free quotations Boiler service & repair Unvented cylinders service & repair m: 07825 305756 t: 01327 842058 a: Long Buckby NN6 7QA e: asplumbingandheating1@gmail.com

The

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Do you have a property that has solid walls? Is it cold and expensive to heat?

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Your home

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Spring vegetable risotto www.basshandyman.co.uk Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large, www.basscarpetcleaning.co.uk

Method Bring the stock to the boil in a large saucepan, then reduce the heat, add the asparagus tips, carrots, peas and broad beans and simmer for 4–5 minutes until tender. Remove the vegetables with a draining spoon and set aside. Keep the stock simmering over a gentle

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heavy-based frying pan and add the leeks. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until they are bright green, then stir in the rice. Add 2–3 tbsp of the hot stock and cook gently, stirring until the liquid is absorbed. Continue adding the stock, a little at a time, until the mixture is soupy and the grains of rice are tender but still have a slight bite. This will take about 20 minutes. Stir in the pesto and season to taste. Gently stir in the asparagus, carrots, peas and beans and cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are heated through. Serve in heated soup plates and scatter over the pine nuts.

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CONTACT STUART OR DAVID FOR FREE QUOTE

01327 828712 dreamdoors.co.uk

01604 753 753 heat. | 07541 015 622 01604 753 753 | 07541 015 622 1 litre vegetable stock 100g asparagus tips 100g baby carrots, halved lengthways 200g fresh young peas, shelled 500g baby broad beans, shelled 2 tbsp olive oil 2 baby leeks, thinly sliced 300g risotto rice 1 tbsp pesto sauce 25g pine nuts, toasted

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24 www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your home

On Their Bike for Charity Eight final year Event Management students from the University of Northampton have chosen to work with local Parent-Infant Partnership charity NorPIP on their biggest fundraiser of the year. In its 5th year, the event - giving the opportunity for cyclists aged 7 and over to experience exclusive access to cycle one of the World’s most famous race circuits; Silverstone - is hoping to be bigger and better than ever before. On Friday 25th March 2016, participants will have the opportunity to ride on the full Grand Prix circuit, and follow in the tracks of the likes of Lewis Hamilton and hundreds of motorsport legends. The event shall also feature a family fun-day in the Silverstone Wing with plenty to keep the family entertained during the bank holiday. The venue boasts a fantastic view of the track, allowing spectators to support their loved ones free of charge.

The charity has welcomed the team of students: “Our partnership with the University of Northampton is a long standing one, and the students this year are working tirelessly to ensure the success of the event” said Louise Danielczuk, NorPIP’s Fundraising Coordinator. Last year’s bike ride raised record-breaking funds for the charity, all going directly towards the essential work NorPIP providing therapy to families in the Northamptonshire area. This year, the students hope to surpass this amount and assist NorPIP in continuing to offer these services. The cycle ride is open to anyone wearing a helmet over the age of 7, and under-14s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets and further information are available online at www.norpipbikeride.wix.com/2016. You can also follow the event’s progress online either at NorPIP Bike Ride 2016 on Facebook, or follow @ norpipbikeride on Twitter.

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Business matters

Roasted Asparagus with Crispy Prosciutto and Poached Egg Ingredients Serves 4 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided 4 thin prosciutto slices, thinly sliced crosswise 20 asparagus spears, trimmed 2oz piece Parmesan cheese, shaved into strips 1 teaspoon salt 4 large eggs 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme Instructions Heat 2 teaspoons oil in medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add prosciutto; sauté until almost crisp, about 1 minute. Transfer to paper towels. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with foil. Toss asparagus on sheet with remaining oil, then arrange close together. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast until tender, about 12 minutes.

Thinking of starting your own business? Worried about how much tax you need to save? Then Willow Edge Accountants are here to help with proactive and clear advice to assist you in all your tax affairs. With over 10 years of experience we can set you on the right path. Please contact Caroline Overton to see how we can help your business. Call 07743 859 269 or email enquiries@willowedge.co.uk

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Sprinkle cheese over; roast until melted, about 5 minutes. Divide among 4 plates. Cover to keep warm. Meanwhile, pour enough water into large skillet to reach depth of 2 inches. Add 1 teaspoon salt; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium. Crack 4 eggs, 1 at a time, into simmering water. Cook until whites are set but yolks are still soft, about 3 minutes. Using slotted spoon, gently transfer 1 egg on top of asparagus spears on each plate. Sprinkle each serving with prosciutto and thyme. Season with salt and pepper; serve.

Laptop and Desktop repairs and upgrades

l Virus / malware removal and data recovery

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Windows and Microsoft Office l Windows 10 / 8.1 / 8.0 / 7 support l Home visits by arrangement or drop off and collect service l Also consider other requests including Tablet and Phone repairs

The best way to print your plans Planprint-it is the smart online way to print large format plans of all sorts.

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Out and about

Experience the Joy of geocaching on holiday My love of geocaching has given me the gift of discovering many different things all over the world that I would never have found if it was not for this sport. I will never forget a discovery called an “Earth Cache” on a secret path between Universal Studios and Islands Of Adventure in Florida. I followed the coordinates only to turn a corner and spot a HUGE slice of the Berlin wall, complete with the authentic plaque. I love my holidays, but I am not the sort of person to just sit on a beach, or by a pool (well, not for long!). Geocaching can certainly add the extra spice to any holiday. Whether you are looking for hidden boxes on the top of Snowdon (where they also have wifi!), or hunting for Tupperware in Central Park, New York or diving for hidden micro caches which are hidden within huge sea shells in the Carribean, it’s just a fantastic way to explore the world.

In January, my husband and I embarked on a cruise around Dubai, and I was not disappointed by the geocaching opportunities. The first port was Khasab, Oman. Unless you book to go on a dolphin cruise, then there was not much else to do in this small town, so I fired up my iPhone and transferred the coordinates onto my GPS, and I headed out to the nearby mountain to find three geocaches. They were all very similar discoveries, but the views were incredible, and so were the random mountain goats! The highlight of the holiday was visiting Muscat in Oman. We were here for two days. We spent time in the Souk and chilling out in the many cafés’s drinking Arabic coffee and trying the local cuisine. You soon get bored of people trying to sell you pashmina’s and Dubai Fridge magnets, so both hubby and I decided to find a few caches and see if we could explore the REAL Muscat. We found beautiful parks, free electric push bikes that the locals use (which was fun) and many quaint cafes

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off the beaten track. Geocaching in Muscat was the best part of the holiday (for me!), and we found seven geocaches. After a few finds in the blazing heat, my husband had decided that enough was enough and that we should head back to the cruise ship. I was keen to collect a few more, but his words “Julia, do you think it is wise to go heading out in the mountains, in the Arab country, on your own, looking for hidden boxes?” – he had a point!

Twitter: @juliadoherty Geocaching Handle: TiffieldTrampers Instagram: juliadohertyGU

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Out and about

Come to The Barn for a warm welcome A perfect place to meet friends and family, or just by yourself. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, set in the heart of the country, but only a mile from the A5. Normal opening times 10-5pm, 7 days a week

Serving breakfast, morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and of course cakes!

Call us on: 01327 349911 email us at: eat@thebarnrestaurant.net See our web-site: www.thebarnrestaurant.net

Visit us at: The Old Dairy Farm, Upper Stowe, Northamptonshire, NN7 4SH

The Old Dairy Farm Centre is home to a range of independent shops.

Free Parking, Free WiFi

You can now enter our competitions online at

The recently refurbished Old Kings Head is located in the heart of rural Northamptonshire in the picturesque village of Long Buckby. Fresh, home cooked food will not disappoint with a wide variety of snacks for lunch or a full menu and an equally tasty menu for the evening. Specials are changed regularly and in keeping with local seasonal produce. It’s the perfect stop off if you find yourself enjoying a walk in the local countryside… walkers, families, muddy boots and dogs are welcome! They have launched a Real Ale Club with lots of benefits to members including discounts, Brewery visits and lots more.

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Ferguson’s is Rugby’s hidden gem, a relaxed, modern converted warehouse space where you can enjoy a wide range of dishes expertly cooked by David Ferguson and his talented chefs. The Ferguson’s team are welcoming an ever growing customer base to their restaurant and rewarding them with a frequently changing, seasonal menu.

Win a 3 course dinner for 2, with a bottle of house wine at the award winning Old Kings Head, Long Buckby.

Fergusons regularly holds special events throughout the year such as cooking classes, demo days, jazz evenings and wine tastings. A great event is their regular cooking demo’s on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 12 -2pm. But be sure to book to avoid disappointment. Follow us on facebook for all up to date events

To win answer the following question...

David is regularly invited on stage to share his cooking tips with food lovers in the regions, you can see him at Towcester Food Festival on 11th June, Ragley Hall Food Festival on 12th June and Kelmarsh Great British Food Festival on 24th July.

How much does it cost to join the Real Ale Club? £15 / £25 / £35

The winner will be selected from all correct answers on April 12th How to enter

www.oldkingsheadlongbuckby.co.uk 50

TASTY AND SEASONAL FOOD THIS SPRING AT FERGUSON’S OF RUGBY

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Visit Ferguson’s website or sign up online for our newsletter.

To book your table call 01788 550222 www.fergusonsrugby.co.uk

Fergusons-rugby Fergusons Restaurant 7A Eastfield Place Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 3AT

Out and about

You will need to pre-book all your journeys as the bus

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South Northamptonshire

First Pick-Up Last Drop-Off 0RQGD\ )ULGD\ KUV 6DWXUGD\ KUV Wellingborough The service does not operate on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Northampton Details of services during the Christmas and New Year period will be available on each bus and also on the website.

&RXQW\&RQQHFW RSHUDWHV RQ D ÂľÂżUVW FRPH ÂżUVW VHUYHGÂś basis so we advise you to book journeys up to a week CountyConnect service area ahead. You can book up to an hour in advance on the day you want to travel and we will do our best to DFFRPPRGDWH \RXU UHTXHVW

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Please let the booking staff know if it is essential you

Register your details - Call 0345 456 4474 (local call rate) or log on to www.county-connect.co.uk. We will need your name, arrive on time, e.g. to attend appointments, college or address and a contact telephone number. You will receive a Welcome Pack with a membership card and number. if you are connecting to other bus or train services. Making a Booking - Call or log on to the website and tell us where and when you wish to travel and the details of a return trip if needed. You will be asked to provide your membership number. Remember, you can book journeys up to seven days before you wish to travel. Journey Details :H ZLOO FRQÂżUP WKH GHWDLOV ZLWK \RX ,I ZH FDQQRW RIIHU WKH H[DFW WLPHV \RX UHTXHVW ZH ZLOO VXJJHVW WKH FORVHVW DYDLODEOH time. You will be informed of the nearest pick-up point. You can use the service as often as you wish. You can Pick-Up Point 6LPSO\ JR WR WKH SLFN XS SRLQW DW WKH WLPH DQG GDWH FRQÂżUPHG ZLWK \RX 3OHDVH QRWH WKH EXV PD\ DUULYH XS WR PLQXWHV DOVR ERRN VHYHUDO MRXUQH\V DW RQH WLPH ,I \RX QHHG WR after the time you have been given). travel every day to work or college you can book those Board the Bus - Pay your fare or show your concessionary pass.

trips a week0345 at a time. Call 456 4474

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<RX ZLOO EH JLYHQ D FRQÂżUPHG WLPH DQG SLFN XS SRLQW E\

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followed by a space and then your message to: 82727. You can book online CountyConnect has been designedwww.county-connect.co.uk to pick up in as many 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at: ,I \RX FDQFHO JLYLQJ OHVV WKDQ RQH KRXUV QRWLFH RU \RX

FRQYHQLHQW SODFHV DV SRVVLEOH ,I \RX DUH QRW VXUH ZKHUH fail to be at the pick-up point to board the bus this will be your designated pick-up point is please ask our booking ORJJHG DV D ÂľQR VKRZÂś ,I \RX UHSHDWHGO\ PDNH ERRNLQJV staff. The Forfirst customers living in isolated areas where there bookings are available from 07.00 Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday and and do not use the service we reserve the right to refuse is no clear central point or a marked bus stop, it may be 08.00 Saturday. The last drop off is 19.00 Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday and 18.00 on any future bookings. possible to pick you up at home if it is safe and practical Saturday. We do not operate on Sundays or Bank Holidays. Please see the details on the bus or website for arrangements over the Christmas and to do so. New Year period.

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travel availability). We will do ourhave best to pick you Friends can(subject travel towith you providing you made a up at the time youfor would like. winning cafĂŠ. booking them in advance. They do not need to be Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having an Y PHPEHUV SURYLGLQJ WKH\ DUH WUDYHOOLQJ ZLWK \RX ,I WKH\ award-winning year! have not booked they will be refused Art travel as other Evergreen CafĂŠ All CountyConnect buses have been specially designed it is really you arrive for analong appointment, connecting bus or train Up & Coming Art Gallery of the Year peopleIf may be vital travelling the journey. ZLWK ORZ Ă&#x20AC;RRUV DQG ZLGH GRRUV IRU HDV\ DFFHVV 7KHUH LV 30further Sheaf Street | Daventry | Northants NN11 4AB or start of college or work, please let our booking centre know. Independent CafĂŠ of the Year enough space for one wheelchair per bus. Small mobility 01327 878117 E ifsales@evergreenartcafe.co.uk If we do not know, weTcannot be held responsible you are late. in aWell bus - Gold Award Eatmust Out,sitEat www.evergreenartcafe.co.uk scooters can also be carried but the user VHDW ,I \RX GR WUDYHO ZLWK D ZKHHOFKDLU RU PRELOLW\ VFRRWHU ,I WKH EXV KDV QRW DUULYHG ZLWKLQ PLQXWHV RI WKH Healthiest Cake Winner is important to tell the booking staff the make and model You can travel as often as you want. You can also book several trips at it the VFKHGXOHG SLFN XS WLPH SOHDVH FDOO WKH ERRNLQJ RIÂżFH they can check it meets the standards for impact resistsame time. If you need to travel every day to work or college, you book DQG VHOHFW RSWLRQ DQG ZKHQ SURPSWHG can so DQFH ,I \RX KDYH DQ\ GLVDELOLW\ RU VSHFLDO QHHGV SOHDVH those trips a week at a time. discuss this with our booking staff so that we can assist 3OHDVH QRWH ,I \RX PDNH DOWHUQDWLYH WUDYHO DUUDQJHPHQWV \RX )RU \RXU VDIHW\ VHDW EHOWV DUH ÂżWWHG LQ DOO EXVHV because the CountyConnect service is running late you XI XII I

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Daventry

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Welland Valley Daventry area Brackley/ Banbury Area Brackley/ Banbury area Brackley/ Towcester Area Brackley/Towcester area Daventry Area

Register your details - Call 0345 456 4474 (local call rate) or log on to www.county-connect.co.uk. We will need your name, address and a contact telephone number. You will receive a Welcome Pack with a membership card and number. Making a Booking - Call or log on to the website and tell us where and when you wish to travel and the details of a return trip if needed. You will be asked to provide your membership number. Remember, you can book journeys up to seven days before you wish to travel. Journey Details :H ZLOO FRQÂżUP WKH GHWDLOV ZLWK \RX ,I ZH FDQQRW RIIHU WKH H[DFW WLPHV \RX UHTXHVW ZH ZLOO VXJJHVW WKH FORVHVW DYDLODEOH time. You will be informed of the nearest pick-up point.

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and again on the return trip.

CountyConnect operates on a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;first come fi booking as far in advance as you can, up to gives you the opportunity to get your journ possible. You can still book up to an hour in travel (subject to availability). We will do ou you would like.

New Spring releases out now

www.county-connect.co.uk

â&#x20AC;˘ CountyConnect operates on a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ďŹ rst come ďŹ rst servedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sobeit valid is advisable Your concessionary travelbasis pass will from 09:30 to pre-book week ahead. Monday to Fridayup andtoatone any time on Saturday. Bookings can sometimes be made up 1. is not available on Sundays and Bank Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aCountyConnect newan idea, hour but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;rebefore convinced that if you try it, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll it, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to you need to love travel. whyHolidays. to help get you going we are offering everyone who registers their first round trip totally â&#x20AC;˘ You willfree! need to pre-book all your journeys as 2. cannot you up a booking. 3. Just the presentbus a validated couponpick when you board yourwithout first booked journey

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CountyConnect service area

Fares are charged based on the distance travelled, like any other bus Fares chargedtravel based distance you travel. service. Your are concessionary passon willthe be valid.

If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t yet received a welcome pack with your validated coupons but want to book straight away, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry - your coupons will still be valid on later journeys.

Out and about

South Northamptonshire

Bookings can be made upup to an hour before you need to travel cannot pick you without a booking. (subject to availability) and up to a week in advance. It is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;first come first servedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, so the more notice you give, the more likely you are to get your You can book by phone (0345 456 4474) or online at requested booking.

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You can phone, email or text our dedicated booking team.

Northampton

basis so it is advisable to pre-book travel up to one up to an hour before you need to travel.)

There is no fixed timetable as it changes every day, so you need to weekThe ahead. (Bookings can sometimes pre-book. bus cannot pick you up without a booking.be made

â&#x20AC;˘ CountyConnect is a fresh concept in rural public transport that anyone can use once they have registered.The service goes where and when you want within designated areas (see below). â&#x20AC;˘ CountyConnect will take you to or from a designated pick-up point to another in villages and towns. You will be able to connect to regular bus and rail services for onward destinations. â&#x20AC;˘ The service operates â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;On Demandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; between 6.45am and 6.45pm Mon-Fri, and 8am to 6pm on Saturdays, so there is no ďŹ xed route.

08.00 Saturday. The last drop off is 19.00 M Saturday. We do not operate on Sundays o the details on the bus or website for arran New Year period.

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is safe to do so. You can go from village to village as well as to your local timetable. town. You are able to connect to regular bus services that will take you longer distances. &RXQW\&RQQHFW RSHUDWHV RQ D ÂľÂżUVW FRPH ÂżUVW VHUYHGÂś

will not be entitled to a refund unless it has been authorised in advance with the booking staff.

We do reserve the right to refuse wheelchairs or scooters that do not meet these standards in the interest of safety.

www.villageemporium.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ 01788 298 050

Out and about

Wardrobe Inbetweeners The guide to inter-seasonal dressing...

Our weather is chaotic and unpredictable where we can have winter rays of sunshine and snow on the ground in March! No wonder we are left wondering just what on earth to wear. We have highlighted a few key points to remember when it comes to transitional dressing. Pick out what we would describe as core Items such as below.

The Shirt

The shirt is really big news this season which is great because they are perfectly adaptable. The shirt is always a good combination with a skirt for a workwear look or teamed together with jeans at the weekend. Think about how you wear it, roll back the sleeves and wear open over a tee or button straight up to the neck, layer with any weight of knitwear. A real building block of an item to fit into anyone’s wardrobe, anytime!

Poncho

Such a go-to piece for the unpredictable Spring weather. They will always deliver that chic and feminine finish over jeans and a shirt or poloneck. This Spring we see the jersey poncho hit our rails from A Postcard from Brighton and the lighter gauge knit version with tassels from St Tropez.

Jackets

Jackets are ever our sartorial answer! A variety of styles to cater for many styles. We love Rino and Pelle’s faux leather and real leather jacket style. All year round clothing ranges available at Terracotta, 13 Bank St, Rugby CV21 2QE

NEW SS/16 CLOTHING AND ACCESSORY COLLECTIONS NOW IN! Introducing some new must-see labels!

www.terracotta-boutique.co.uk 13 Bank St, Rugby CV21 2QE Tel: 01788 570076

TerracottaBoutiqueRugby

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

terracottawoman

terracottarugby

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

The Closet stocks “excess” clothing from High Street stores - M&S, Dorothy Perkins, Wallis and many more. 2 Bishops Court, Daventry NN11 4NP

Tel. 01327 876147

Pop to the Shops, Come and visit Bishops Court, Daventry It’s free to park!

The Shop Around The Corner Eat in or take away, Open 8.30am-4.00pm Warm and Welcoming friendly team. Everything Homemade, locally sourced produce. The Best Breakfast Wonderful selection of Leaf Teas & Nespresso Coffee. Free delivery to town centre Businesses. Mouth watering Cakes, Slices and Scones Child and Wheelchair Friendly 5 Star Hygiene rating Private Function Hire

Trip Advisor’s consistently best rated Café In Daventry

The Courtyard Café 6 Bishops Court, Daventry NN11 4NP

01327 872687 www.thecourtyardcafe.org.uk

Handbags, Purses, Sterling Silver & Fashion Jewellery Bath Treats and Scarves

Bishops Court Cobblers

07900 882977

Shoe repairs including, rubber heels & soles, leather heels and soles and metal heel tips.

Replacement watch batteries. Leather stitching/ repairs. Eg boot zips.

Key cutting. Engraving on trophies & plaques etc Pet discs.

Laces, polishes, insoles, key rings, and various trophies and christening gifts.

01327 700160 3 Bishops Court, Daventry NN11 4NP

For all your nail and beauty treatments Tel: 01327 879020

clawsbeauty@hotmail.co.uk www.clawsbeauty.co.uk

3a Bishop Court, Daventry, Northants. NN11 4NP

01327 706 626

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

Out and about Northamptonshire , there is able parking nearby and we are just a few minutes walk from the town centre. Claws knows how important it is to look and feel good and that’s why they train all their staff to the highest standards by using some of the finest products available on the market, names such as Jessica, St Tropez, Dermalogica, Blink and Go are just a few. Their ambition and drive is to make all of their customers feel special and feel beautiful within.

Pop to the shops…. It’s so easy. Celebrating success in Bishops Court, the independent traders who are here to remind you to Keep Local Local! With free car parking in abundance in Daventry it’s the perfect place to “pop to the shops”. No- one has ever said that you can spend hours shopping and browsing in Daventry? But there are amazing shops and you can generally find a gift or a service to fit the need. Park in Primrose Hill car park and it’s a short stroll to Bishops Court where you can find independent businesses with skilled business owners who know their trade. Now in its fourth year The Closet stocks “excess” stock from High Street stores, such as M&S, Dorothy Perkins, Wallis and many more. They also stock gorgeous Italian tops. They offer discounted prices in sizes 8-30, so there is something for everyone. Looking good for less is their motto and you won’t be disappointed in the ever changing stock and lovely window dressings to keep you in ladies clothing throughout the year.

Prezzence has been open in the Courtyard for

ten years. Specialising in gifts for all occasions, from wedding to baby, home to personal gifts, this really is a shop with a huge offering of eclectic gifts for all the family. Complete the gift with a choice from the wide range of cards, wrapping and bags to make it one stop shop for gifts. A real treasure trove and one not to be missed.

Bishops Court Cobblers has been open for just over 10 years & Darren has over 25 years’ experience in the shoe repairing industry. He also cuts, keys, fits watch batteries, engraves trophies and gifts and can cut a tag for your pet. Bishops Court Cobblers also offers a wide range of laces, polishes and insoles, everything to keep your shoes in great condition. But did you know? There are a wide range of silver ware gifts for dads, christenings and special occasions to which you can add the perfect touch of a personal message. Patt Stock has been practicing NST full time now since 2003, helping people from all walks of life rediscover their health and happiness through Bowen. Here at Patt Stock , it’s not only NST and Bowen therapy, there is also a wide range of different Complementary therapies available. In the late 1950s, Tom Bowen, an Australian osteopath, discovered that the sacrum, coccyx, cranium, and temporomandibular joint complex and the dural membrane of the spine formed a critically functioning unit in the body. Disruption to this unit resulted in ill health. But what is Bowen? It sets the scene for the body to heal itself. Unlike many other hands-on therapies, Bowen does not attempt to force change. Rather, through gentle finger and thumb movements it asks the body to recognise and make the changes necessary to bring it back to physiological equilibrium.

Shop around the Corner. A lady can never have enough handbags, and this shop will not disappoint. With an amazing range of bags and purses and new stock coming in on a regular basis there are colours and styles to suit all. But not just bags, plenty of lovely dress and sterling silver jewellery, bath treats and crystals. If you’ve not been in here yet, remember to take your voucher for 25% discount on sterling silver jewellery. And to complement your shopping experience, the Courtyard Café is open for breakfast from 8.30am. Everything is homemade from carefully selected local produce, There is a lunch menu changed daily to reflect the seasons and a regular menu available every day with choices of scrummy homemade cakes, slices and scones. They have an eclectic selection of leaf teas and tisanes and Nespresso and Cafetiere coffee. The Café is child and wheelchair friendly and kids will love the Roskilly ice cream and thoughtful childrens lunches. Affectionally known as Daventry’s Hidden Gem, we think everyone should pop in.

Bishops Court, Daventry…. It’s on your doorstep

The Shop Around The Corner Please present this voucher to receive

25% off

Sterling Silver Jewellery Valid 10th March to 10th April 2016

Discount applies to full price Sterling Silver Jewellery Only

2 Bishops Court, Daventry NN11 4NP

Tel. 01327 876147

10% off

Valid until 31.5.16 Terms & conditions apply

25% off all beauty treatments with this voucher Expires : August 2016 Terms & Conditions Apply

Tel: 01327 879020 clawsbeauty@hotmail.co.uk www.clawsbeauty.co.uk 3a Bishop Court, Daventry, Northants. NN11 4NP

If you are looking for relaxation and looking to be pampered, then Claws is the place to go. Claws is situated within the beautiful courtyard of Bishops Court in the centre of Daventry in

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Travel in style with SB2 SB2 Campers is a family run business renting out campervans for self-drive hire. The campers are available for holidays, short breaks and festivals. When hiring a camper you have a choice of going back in time, taking things nice and slow, in their iconic VW Baywindow, travelling in classic 80s style in their VW T25 or getting away with all mod-cons in their Renault Trafic. With all their campers all you need to bring is your food and bedding as all the necessary cooking equipment, utensils, crockery and cutlery are already aboard. All their campers sleep four but if you need even more space they also have drive-away awnings, which include an inner tent, available. Additionally they have toilet tents and bike racks.

SB2 Campers are based in Shawell, near Lutterworth with easy access to the M1, M6 and A5, giving great freedom to drive off in any direction and start enjoying your holiday straightaway. SB2 Campers also offer a bespoke conversion service, converting the vehicle of your choice into a campervan, day van or sports van. Again please contact Steve with any questions you have.

T: 07789 690 242 E: steve@sb2campers.co.uk

Individual & Unique shops, fully licenced tea rooms plus a multi award winning Cookshop and ample free parking Free WiFi in the courtyard Open 7 days a week – 10.00am to 5.00pm Including Bank Holidays Shopping Village: 01327 349 508

www.heartoftheshires.co.uk

Included in the hire cost is insurance for one driver aged 25-70 and RAC cover. Hire periods are very flexible, just call Steve on 07789 690242 or email Steve@ sb2campers.co.uk to discuss your requirements or ask any questions.

EASTER TREASURE HUNT – bring the children along to join in the hunt for clues that will lead to a prize. It all starts and ends in our Deli & Wine Barn on the A5 Nr Weedon

Bespoke Camper Conversions to any make of vehicle.

Camper Van Hire from classic VW’s to modern Renault Trafic

t: 07789 690 242 e: steve@sb2campers.co.uk

www.sb2campers.co.uk

Prices include RAC Cover & UK Insurance (subject to conditions)

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

and Jewellery Centre

WE’VE BEEN SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WITH A SMILE FOR 22 YEARS

We make our own fresh sausages and burgers using only the finest ingredients and can prepare crown roasts and French dressed racks of lamb to order. We sell: Gluten-free sausages and burgers Pork pies from Sercombes of Rugby Fabulous cheeses

Opening times:

Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 7.30am to 1pm, 2.15pm to 5.30pm Wednesday & Saturday 7.30am to 1pm

NOW TAKING FREEZER ORDERS

The centre offers a large and varied selection of high quality antiques and collectables together with a stunning collection of jewellery ranging from antique and vintage to new modern silver and gold. Whether you want a stunning engagement ring at a fraction of high street prices, a silver christening gift or a Victorian table and chairs for your kitchen or anything in between we have lots to choose from. Prices to fit every budget and style.

And lots more to be confirmed …

Heart of the Shires Shopping Village, A5 Watling Street, Weedon, Northamptonshire, NN7 4LB Open 7 days 10am to 5pm.

Tel: 01327 340594

Brampton Heath Golf Centre, Sandy Lane, Church Brampton, NN6 8AX

www.bramptonheathgolfcentre.co.uk

Call our Events Team on 01604 843939

THE PERFECT VENUE

FOR ANY OCCASION SPECIALISTS IN CATERING FOR ALL EVENTS AND FUNCTIONS! Children’s Parties | Corporate meetings and lunches | Weddings Birthdays & Anniversaries | Christenings | Wakes

EASTER SUNDAY

/BRASSERIE23ATTHEKINGSHEAD @B23KINGSHEAD 01604 847351

DON'T MISS OUT AND ENJOY OUR EXQUISITE SUNDAY LUNCH MENU COMPLETE WITH SOME HIDDEN EGGS! Serving our award winning Sunday lunches with all the trimmings along with a choice of dishes from our a la carte menus We are already taking bookings so get booked in soon to avoid disappointment

KINGSHEADSPRATTON.CO.UK

MOTHERS DAY Show your mum how special she is and treat her to a

WONDERFUL MEAL @ The Kings Head

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

What’s on?

Monday 14th March Easter Bingo - Galanos House,

A full list of events over the forthcoming months is available on our website www.villageemporium.co.uk/events/ Noticeboard

Your Cafe – Braunston.

A new community cafe in High Street, open Wednesdays to Fridays from 10am to 4pm and from 10am to 1pm on Saturday. The café is run by volunteers. A wide range of teas, coffees & lovely cakes.

Nether Heyford Village Hall

Available for club meetings, parties, weddings, business meetings. Modern kitchen, disabled friendly. To book please call 07849356618

Adult Learning Classes

Every week in Northamptonshire, Please go to www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/ adultlearning to see our range of courses

Regular Events Fridays Fortnightly Friday Café - Greenacres Farm Rural Enterprise,

Catesby Road, Staverton, NN11 6JP. Starting 11th March, 25th March, 8th April, 22nd April.

Long Buckby Village Market – 9am – 11am

Long Buckby Community Centre NN6 7QB. 3rd March – Mothers Day. 10th March - Original art and papercraft. 17th and 24th March. Easter cards, gifts, cakes 31st March Free childrens half term activities. 7th April - Free children’s Half Term activities . 14th April - £1 Event. 21st April - Baby and Toddler Special. 28th April - Spring Event

Events Saturday 5th March Willoughby Jumble Sale –

Willoughby Village Hall. Doors open 2pm, refreshments & cake stall. Lots of bargains to be had. Entrance 20p. Jumble to be dropped off from 9.30am

Saturday 5th March Jumble Sale - Newnham Village Hall. 2 – 3.30pm. Entrance 20p. Included with the usual stalls will good quality bric-a-brac and nearly new clothes, a cake stall & teas.

Saturday 12th March Bryan Shaw Memorial Concert - St. Margaret’s Church,

Crick, NN6 7TP, starting at 7pm .This is a one-off chance to see pupils, past & present, of Leicester Grammar School performing in memory of their muchloved teacher, Bryan Shaw. Bryan’s father was once the organist at St. Margaret’s. Some of the ex-pupils are now professional musicians and it promises to be a wonderful evening. ADMISSION FREE but donations will be split between Cancer Research UK and the Church.

Saturday 19th March Crick Village Market – at Crick

Primary School, 10.00am - 12.00am. Twenty plus stalls covering home produced products, including breads, cakes, meats, jams and chutneys. Gifts, jewellery and cards. Free entry for shoppers, with cafe. The Mobile Library will be in the car park 10.15am - 11.30am.

Saturday 16th April Crick Village Market – at Crick

Primary School, 10.00am to 12.00am. Twenty plus stalls covering home produced products, including breads, cakes, meats, jams & chutneys. Gifts, jewellery & cards. Free entry for shoppers, with cafe. The Mobile Library will be in the car park 10.15am to 11.30am.

Saturday 30th April Car Boot Sale – Daventry Country

Park. Sellers set up 8.30am-9.30am & buyers welcome from 9.45am. Entry fee for car/small van is £5 and transit size vehicle £10. The parks café and toilets are situated near the visitor centre. Call 07879035535 or email friendsofdcp@ gmail.com

Friday 13th – Saturday 14th May Tudor Rose Woodturners Show - The Leisure Centre, Lodge

Monday 2nd May Beatrix Potter Children’s Fayre St Luke’s Church, Kislingbury -

celebrating the 150th anniversary of the birth of Beatrix Potter. Themed stalls and games for all the family. 2pm – 4.30pm. In aid of new heating boiler fund for St Luke’s Church.

If you are organising a charity or community event, then let us know so we can publicise it for you.

Sunday 6th March Spring Walk at Kelmarsh Hall - See Gardens Coming to Life.

Just email info@villageemporium.co.uk by 6th April for events in May/ June 2016.

Shake off the winter blues with a stroll around the Grade II* listed gardens at

Please mention The Village Emporium when responding to adverts

Road, Daventry, NN11 4FP. Free Entry. The show is now in its 7th year, featuring woodturning demonstrations & club competitions between woodturning clubs. We have guests demonstrating how to produce many varied wooden items. There are many leading name suppliers selling tools, wood & many associated woodturning products. Raffle, with many prizes & free parking. The show is open from 10am - 4.30pm. Tudor Rose Woodturners meet at the Community Centre, Ashby Road, Daventry, NN11OQE on every 2nd and 4th Thursday evening in each month. Please see www.tudor-roseturners.co.uk for events calendar & more information.

Saturday 11th – Sunday 12th June Towcester Food Festival – to

Get in touch...

First Thursday each month Grandborough Farmers Market Thursday 3rd March and

7th April Held in St Peters Church from 10.00am – 12.30pm. Come along & enjoy the lively atmosphere of our market & purchase locally produced food from our stallholders. Greenacres homemade items and seasonal vegetables produced on their farm, Manx Loaghtan lamb, Dexter beef, fish, cheese, large selection of meat & fruit pies, honey, jam/pickles, bread & bottled real ale from Rugby. Relax in our friendly café for a chat while enjoying a cup of tea/coffee with one of our home baked cheese scones, sausage rolls or bacon rolls.

Kelmarsh Hall. Gardens & tea room will be open from 11am - 3pm for the annual Spring Walk, giving visitors the chance to see the gardens coming back to life. A nature trail will encourage children to explore & understand the world around them. Admission is £3.50 for adults or £2 for children aged 5 to 14 (under 5’s free) The Easter weekend is Kelmarsh Country Fair, an action-packed showcase of country life. www.kelmarshcountryshow. co.uk.

Southam, Banbury Road, Southam CV47 2BL, for service people past & present & their families. Eyes down at 7.30pm, bar open & refreshments, lots of prizes. 01926 812185

theft of all the copper off the roof. Please do come & support not only the artist, the exhibition but also Fawsley Church

Saturday 30th April – Sunday 1st May Dodford Art Exhibition Dodford Village Hall NN7 4SY. 10.00am – 4.00pm on each day. An annual event exhibiting local artists works, proceeds to charity. Free parking, disabled access, assistance dogs welcomed & teas served. £1 admission. 50p for exhibition guides. This year the recipient will be Fawsley Church roof repairs following

Saturday 7th May Daventry Vegfest 2016 at

The Methodist Church, Golding Close, Daventry NN11 4FB. 9.30am - 3.00pm. Food tasting, recipes, advice and information, refreshments and lunches, cruelty-free stalls. In support of National Vegetarian Week.Please contact Daventry & Rugby Area Vegetarians and Vegans for further details. Facebook/daventryvegetarians www. daventryvegetarians.btck.co.uk

be held at Towcester Racecourse, now in its 3rd year it is a great family occasion with over a 100 food and drink stalls, a food market, children’s circus, petting farm and pony rides plus many more …. Visit www.towcesterfoodfestival.co.uk for more info

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

For a wide range of hand knitting yarns and accessories to suit all budgets and tastes

ENJOY SUMMER WITH NEW FRIENDS

COME ALONG AND JOIN US

7 St Johns Square, Daventry NN11 4FG Tel: 01327 703680

Sunday 23rd March at Walton Hall, Wellesbourne. Sunday 3rd April at Whately Hall Hotel, Banbury. Sunday 17th April at Wroxall Abbey Estate, Wroxall near Warwick.

T he Old

www.the-wool-baa.co.uk MONDAYS - CLOSED Tues-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm

We have been established for 12 years and meet twice a month for Sunday lunch in historic hotels full of character and charm where we have the hotel restaurants reserved for ourselves all afternoon and enjoy good company, fine food and wine. Come along, widen your social circle, meet new friends and possibly find romance. We strive to have an equal number of ladies and gentlemen at each lunch where you will be warmly welcomed. Make new local friends, book now and join us at the next lunch, for more details phone Mike on: 01564 230025 or 07718 155146 or email: thesundaylunch@hotmail.co.uk If this may be of interest to someone you know, please tell them about us. The lunches are great fun and there is no membership fee or obligation to attend regularly.

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Join us for our

SAUSAGE & CIDER FESTIVAL 1ST - 3RD APRIL

With 10 real ciders, 6 guest ales and 6 varieties of flavoured sausages Starts 5pm on Friday 1st, Family Fun Day & Live Music on Saturday 2nd, finishes with our Quiz at 8pm on Sunday 3rd  TUESDAY Pensioners Meal Deal - main meal and drink from £5.95  WEDNESDAY Burger & Beer only £9.95  THURSDAY Ladies Night 2 Courses £15 | 3 Courses £18  SUNDAY Popular Pub Quiz - 8pm start

Enjoy £ 5 off WHEN YOU SPEND £20 TERMS & CONDITIONS: Valid only when you pre-book your table. £20 spend must be on food, in one transaction only. Excludes any other offer. Managers decision is final. Expires 1/10/16. Excludes Mother’s Day 2016. THE OLD KINGS HEAD LONG BUCKBY

Telephone: 01327 842 680 • Email: info@theoldkingsheadlongbuckby.com www.oldkingsheadlongbuckby.co.uk www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

The traditional bar offers a range of beautifully cared for Ales, & Fine Wines, featuring local brewery ‘Gun Dog Ales’. Lunch available daily or Tea & Coffee.

‘The Furrow’

Three barns, in the large garden, open daily from 12.00, with a fabulous range of retro & vintage furniture, plants,flowers,collectibles & treasures, perfect for that special gift.

The Plough Inn Everdon

Open daily 12.00 til 11.00 pm

Bespoke Vintage Weddings. Please look at our website or contact us anytime

The Plough offers within a beautiful environment, high quality, freshly prepared food, using local & Seasonal Ingredients – In particular, our own home produced Lamb, Everdon Beef & Sausages.

Please call 01327 361606 or 07866789737

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.theploughinneverdon.com For weekly menus & news

RUGBY BIKEFEST Sunday 22nd May 2016 10.30am - 3pm Rugby Town Centre

A FAMILY FRIENDLY BIKE FESTIVAL

BikeFest

Further information: 01788 890789 Email: info@ucltd.co.uk

www.rugbytowncentre.co.uk/bikefest www.facebook.com/rugbybikefestival

rugbybikefestival

Sunday Weddings THE SUNDAY WEDDING PACKAGE INCLUDES:

Bikes l Displays l Ride-in l Children’s activities l Music l Food

RugbyTownCentre

TRADITIONAL WITH A TWIST

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RugbyTownCentre

All for £4,495

Sparkling wine on arrival 3-course wedding breakfast Two glasses of wine with your meal A glass of sparkling wine for your toast Tea & Coffee after the wedding breakfast Room hire for the full day Wedding night stay in the bridal suite A red carpet – for the perfect entrance White table linen Chef’s selected cheese board with biscuits and crackers for the evening reception Use of our dance floor Based on up to 60 people for the full day. Use of our garden games Available for Sundays throughout 2016. Accommodation discount for guests Terms and conditions apply.

For more information please contact our events team on 01604 821666 or email sedgebrookevents@principal-hayley.com

Northampton

RugbyTownCentre

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www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out and about

The perfect getaway… new look Catthorpe Manor Estate is complete.

If you haven’t visited Catthorpe Manor Estate for a while you may not recognise it now! During 2015 the Edwardian manor house at Catthorpe was completely transformed and following an extensive renovation and several set-backs, including the discovery of asbestos, which had to be removed before the project could move forward, the venue re-opened on the 8th February 2016 as a beautiful country house hotel, complete with restaurant. The Manor and the Banqueting Suite, (two large rooms and a spacious bar situated within the old coach house), have hosted wedding receptions since the mid-1970’s, when there were few establishments in the Rugby area offering such a service, and was always a popular choice due to the attractive buildings and beautiful grounds. In 2011 The Banqueting Suite and Bar were completely renovated and the business diversified to offer civil ceremonies, a programme of special events and a range of conference rooms. In 2014 Head Chef, James Craggs, was appointed who introduced exciting new menus and brought in many excellent local suppliers. With exquisite food on offer, spacious meetings and weddings facilities and light airy reception rooms, the venue had almost everything. However, accommodation was always lacking. But no longer… Catthorpe Manor Estate now offers 20 beautiful bedrooms and has grown from its roots as,

primarily, an events venue into a bijou country house hotel, along with a brand new restaurant open to residents and non-residents alike. The Linden Tree Restaurant is filled with abundant natural light during the day and overlooks the gardens and countryside beyond, whilst in the evening crystal chandeliers and soft warm colours combine to create an elegant yet comfortable environment in which to dine. Focusing on serving delicious food from local suppliers and using fresh seasonal ingredients, the restaurant is open for Sunday Lunch, Afternoon Tea (from Easter onwards) and A La Carte Dining, whilst light bites and coffee can be enjoyed in the adjacent Drawing Room. The manor also offers two gorgeous spaces for private dining, meetings and civil ceremonies; The Garden Room, which features double doors leading out into the lovely gardens and The Old Library. In addition to the weddings, meetings, accommodation and restaurant, Catthorpe Manor Estate also hosts a large number of events throughout the year and 2016’s line-up is the most exciting one yet. From murder mystery dinners to David Bowie tribute and wild-food foraging to wedding fairs, there’s something for all tastes this year at Catthorpe Manor Estate. For more information please call 01788 860599 or visit www.catthorpemanor.co.uk.

Country House Hotel & The Linden Tree Restaurant

JEMS PHOTOGRAPHY

Catthorpe Manor has been Transformed! Following a major refurbishment during 2015, the beautiful Edwardian manor house at Catthorpe has now re-opened as a bijou country house hotel along with The Linden Tree Restaurant and Bar. Serving exquisite dishes, prepared using the freshest local ingredients by Head Chef, James Craggs, and his team, The Linden Tree Restaurant is open to residents and non-residents alike. Bookings are being taken now for A La Carte dining, Afternoon Teas, Sunday Lunch as well as private dining and special occasions.

Spring Events at Catthorpe Manor Estate. Leap Year Birthday Dinner. Monday 29th February

Easter Sunday Lunch & Egg Trail Sunday 27th March.

Birthday girls and boys dine for free in The Linden Tree Restaurant. For parties of 4 or more diners.

Enjoy a delicious Sunday lunch followed by a hunt in the gardens for clues leading to the chocolate.

Spring Wedding Fair. Sunday 10th April, 10am - 3pm.

Game of Groans Murder Mystery Dinner. Saturday 16th April, 7pm – 12am.

Find all the suppliers you might need for your special day with over 35 exhibitors under one roof. Free Entry.

Inc. 3-course dinner & coffee. £30pp With bed and breakfast: £70pp.*

Comedy & Curry with Jo Enright. Friday 6th May, 7pm - 11.30pm.

Spring Foraging with Geoff Dann. Sunday 15th May, 10am - 4pm.

Show Only: £13.50pp. Show & Supper: £16.50pp. Show, supper, bed & breakfast: £58pp.

Discover more about wild-food with the expert. Includes 2-course lunch: £65pp. With bed & breakfast: £110pp*

*Bed and breakfast rates based upon two guests sharing. For single supplement rates please contact reception on 01788 860599.

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W: catthorpemanor.co.uk E: enquiries@catthorpemanor.co.uk T: 01788 860599 Catthorpe Manor, Lilbourne Lane, Catthorpe, Nr. Lutterworth, Leics, LE17 6DF

Exclusive Indian Cuisine

A Drop of the Black Stuff March 17th is St Patrick’s Day - a celebration of all things Irish - and people around Ireland and throughout the world will commemorate it with a pint or two of Guinness, Ireland’s unofficial national intoxicant, with more than a 25% share of the beer market. Arthur Guinness founded the brewery that makes the famous drink. Born in 1725 in County Kildare, Arthur inherited £100 at the age of 27 from his godfather, and three years later he set up business as a brewer. In 1759 he signed a 9,000 year lease on a disused brewery in St James Gate, Dublin where he began brewing porter and ale. Porter is a dark, well-hopped beer made from brown malt. Its history is closely intertwined with that of stout, a term which originally referred to a beer’s strength but which now refers to the drink’s body and colour. Today’s Guinness is a dry stout available in a number of variants and strengths, including Guinness Draught, Guinness Original/Extra Stout, Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Guinness Special Export Stout and Guinness Bitter. It is nicknamed ‘the black stuff’ on account of its dark colour, although it is actually a very dark shade of ruby! Now brewed in 60 countries and available in over 120, the first Guinness export was to England in 1769, and by 1824 it had become a worldwide brand. Sales soared from 350,000 barrels in 1868 to over a million eighteen years later. However, by the 1970s sales were in decline and the company

decided to make Guinness Extra Stout ‘more drinkable’, resulting in a brand re-launch in 1981 with pale malt being used for the first time. Contemporary Guinness Draught and Extra Light Stout are weaker than their 19th Century counterpart, with Foreign Extra Stout and Special Export being closer to the original in character. Modern Guinness has a burnt flavour and is famous for its smoothness and thick, creamy head. The production of Guinness continues to change with the times. In November last year the company announced plans to make their beer suitable for vegetarians and vegans by the end of 2016, through the introduction of a new filtration process that will avoid the need to use isinglass from fish bladders. Claims have been made in the past that Guinness can benefit the heart by helping to prevent harmful deposit build-up on artery walls. It has also been described as a ‘meal in a glass’, and at 198 calories per pint, has slightly fewer calories than skimmed milk, orange juice and most other light beers. So, I wish you a happy St Patrick’s Day, filled with friends, fun, smiles and a drop of the black stuff.

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