Ve northants mj14 issuu by The Village Emporium

May/June 2014

Northants edition ÂŽ

Photograph by Barefoot Photographic

Delivering local business for local

people

In this issue... Great local businesses, recipes and features plus your chance to win A clay pigeon shooting lesson from Cosford Shooting Grounds A living bouquet from Garden Gate Flowers A unique 3D house picture from Jill Curran

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

Out & about

You’re invited. At Voujon, we're extremely proud to be Highly Commended in the Asian Curry Awards 2013. Our expert chefs blend traditional recipes with contemporary ﬂavours to give you a truly memorable taste. Don’t take our word for it - or theirs - this is your invitation to experience outstanding dining for yourself.

Voujon Long Buckby 1/3 Church Street NN6 7QH Telephone 01327 843806 Voujon Advert v2.indd 1

14/12/2013 17:37

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Out & about

Book your Wedding for £2500 for 50 guests

Room hire for the Wedding reception and evening reception Glass of champagne for bride and groom on arrival Pimms/Winter Pimms or bottled beer on arrival 3 course discounted Wedding Breakfast menu

Full Exclusive use of Sedgebrook Hall – Packages from £12,500

Glass of wine with the Wedding Breakfast Glass of Sparkling wine for toasts

Sedgebrook Hall, Chapel Brampton, Northampton NN6 8BD

01604 822666

www.principal-hayley.com/sedgebrookhall sedgebrookevents@principal-hayley.com

Tea and Coffee after the meal Evening buffet of bacon rolls or chip cones Master of ceremonies White table linen and linen napkins Use of dance floor Use of cake stand and knife Discounted room rates for friends and families

Horwood House Milton Keynes

Horwood House, Little Horwood, Milton Keynes MK17 0PH

01296 722100

www.principal-hayley.com/horwoodhouse horwoodevents@principal-hayley.com

Complimentary bridal suite for night of Wedding Additional Extras are sold as per the main Wedding Brochure Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Applicable for all Weddings taking place before 31st March 2015, any Weddings taking place in October and November 2015 and all Sundays throughout the year (excluding bank holidays)

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Emporium e g la il V e h T to e m o lc e W May/June 2014 Get in touch! thevillageemporiummagazine @EmporiumVillage

www.villageemporium.co.uk

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

Summer is finally around the corner and with it warmer days to enjoy the great outdoors – near and far. If you love Masterchef, farmers markets and great local produce then the Towcester Food Festival on the 7th and 8th June is a must visit. The Village Emporium team will be at the Festival too, so dont forget to pop by and say hello, we’d love to meet you. If you like your summer entertainment a little closer to home we’ve got some great ideas for garden gadgets and furniture on page 28 and some fabulous recipes using strawberries and asparagus. You can’t get any more summery than that!

Alison & Clare 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

Advertise with us! The booking deadline for the July/August 2014 issue is 12th June Hand delivered to 8,600 homes every issue. For more info call us on: 01788 298050

or send us an email: info@villageemporium.co.uk

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In this issue...

Features 7 Frogs and Frolics l Garden Living v Sound and Vision O Building your Brand G Top tips for Sun Protection

L Get on your bike M A good read

Contents 6 q f j n I F H K V

Out & about

Whats On? Handmade by Your garden Your home Business & IT On the road Look good, feel good Your family Learn to

Competitions

Coffee cup trivia bDZ

6 Win a Clay Pigeon shooting lesson

Seasonal recipes d g B

Strawberry jam Strawberry smoothie Stuffed chicken breast

Cover photography by Barefoot Photographic

from Cosford Shooting Ground

Win a £30 Living Bouquet from Garden Gate Rugby

Win a unique 3D house picture from Jill Curran £25 Barby nursery voucher Mrs A Hill Kislingbury The Barn Sunday lunch voucher Mrs M Versey Stockton Virtue Keepsake Mrs J Solomon, Stretton on Dunsmore

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out & about

Win a Clay Pigeon Shooting Lesson

Cosford Shooting Ground are offering this exciting experience for one lucky reader. All the equipment you need is provided including Shotgun, hearing and eye protection. The session lasts for about an hour and is conducted by a CPSA qualified instructor. An ideal Fathers Day gift! Cosford Shooting Ground has been running since 1980 and have held a Clay Pigeon Shoot every Sunday. They are a small friendly club situated just off J1 of the M6 where a very warm welcome is extended to all who visit. The club offers a full range of facilities including car park and clubhouse, which offers refreshments and toilets. They also run a very popular Air Gun Section with 2 range areas and covered firing points. The club has recently become the home of the UKSARC air rifle sporting challenge, a new competition for air gunner’s in the UK. They are affiliated to the CPSA and are a BASC Trade Member.

Further information at www.cosfordsg.co.uk

Antique and Vintage Jewellery Centre With over 2000sq feet of space, the centre offers a large and varied selection of high quality antiques and collectables. We have a stunning collection of jewellery, diamond engagement and dress rings, quality vintage and costume jewellery. We also have a wide range of silver, china, glass, and treen, antique lighting, furniture and clocks. Located at Heart of the Shires Shopping Village, A5 Watling Street, Nr Weedon, Northants, NN7 4LB Open 7 days 10am to 5pm.

Tel: 01327 340594

Cosford shooting ground Clay Pigeon shoot & air gun Club Situated just off J1 of the M6. We hold a Clay Pigeon Shoot every Sunday and also have an Air Gun Section with 2 range areas and covered firing points. Full membership available from £35

Call 07563 518090

To enter just answer the following question correctly:

What does CPSA stand for?

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 e mail, or by post iCon Environmental Innovation Centre, Eastern Way, Daventry, NN11 0QB.

Entries must be recieved by June 6, winners willl be announced on June 9

www.cosfordsg.co.uk Clay Shooting Courses - For the man who has everything! Vouchers available from £30.

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The Stani Art House in Stony Stratford is well known for its wide range of stunning and vibrant limited edition bronze frogs. To mark the occasion of its anniversary, The Stani Art House has commissioned its very own custom patina of the current edition of Over The Top ( as shown above in normal colours ). This gorgeous sculpture is 27 x 11 x 13 inch in size and is valued at over £ 3000 ! The Stani Frog will be revealed for the very first time at an exclusive evening event on Sunday 25th May. You can come along and see it together with other very rare & special frogs, as well as hear a talk on how the frogs are actually made, at what is sure to be a very enjoyable fun and froggy event. To obtain your personal invitation, call 01908 307878 or visit The Stani Art House now as there are limited spaces available. For further information, see www.thestaniarthouse.co.uk

HOP IN & SEE US SOON !

The Stani Art Company

www.staniart.co.uk 58 & 61 High Street Stony Stratford

01908 307878

SCULPTURE + BESPOKE FURNITURE + CERAMICS

Frogs & Frolics !

LIMITED EDITIONS + JEWELLERY + ORIGINAL PAINTINGS

Out & about

ART GALLERIES & TEA ROOMS

Vast selection of fine cheeses, sliced meats, olives, speciality scotch eggs, quality tea, farm fresh eggs and so much more!

r Gift hampers made to orde

Selection of meats available for the perfect BBQ... and wide variety of locally produced www.thedelibarn.co.uk www.thedelibarn.co.uk beers to keep the Chef happy! We believe in supporting local Remember... great gifts for Fathers’ Day growers producers Vast selec4on of ﬁne and cheeses, sliced mea olives, speciality scotch eggs, quality tea fresh eggs and so much more! Gi# hampers made to order Speciality oils & vinegars dispensed in store

We believe in suppor4ng local growers and producers from Northamptonshire Theand DeliwBarn, Heart aofnd the Shires,you A5 nr Weedon NN7 4LB Tel: 01327 342269 e aim Unit to s7, urprise delight with the quality of products from our county!

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

The Deli Barn, Unit 7, Heart of the Shires, A5 Nr Weedon, NN7 4LB Tel: 01327 342269

Out & about The traditional bar offers a range of beautifully cared for Ales, & Fine Wines, featuring local brewery ‘Gun Dog Ales’.

‘The Furrow’ Three barns, in the large garden, open daily from 11.00, with a fabulous range of retro & vintage furniture, plants,flowers,collectibles & treasures, perfect for that special gift.

Lunch available daily or Tea & Coffee.

The Plough Inn Everdon

Open Daily from 11.00-11.00pm 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 VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.theploughinneverdon.com For weekly menus & news

Please call 01327 361606/07866789737

Tel: 01604 875996 Climbing@thepinnaclecentre.co.uk www.thepinnaclecentre.co.uk

 Indoor Climbing Centre  Climbing Courses  Kids Club

 Children's Parties  Corporate Events  Open 7 Days/Week

 Café  Shop

Open 7 Days/Week 8

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Out & about

or play o d t u o New pen! o w o n area

Open daily 9am - 5pm. A range of locally sourced meat, fruit, veg, our very own eggs, local wines and beers and selection of gifts for the family.

Where are we? Shuckburgh Rd. Staverton, Daventry, NN11 6JY

Garden Access Membership launched at Skylarks Field Farm.

Tel :01327 300471

www.skylark-farm.com Find us on Facebook

For just £1 per person you can join the annual Garden Access Membership. This gives you and family the opportunity to enjoy our wonderful new facilities when you choose to dine in the Cafe. As with all memberships, you will also have access to regular offers in the shop and cafe.

Open daily 9am – 5pm. The perfect stop off for all day breakfast, lunch, coffee and cake or even full afternoon tea.

Come and meet Twinkle Toes and Sparky the reindeer who are now out in the fields. • 01788 298 050 www.villageemporium.co.uk

What’s on? Saturday 31st May and Saturday 28th June Car Boot Sale Daventry Country Park 8.30am -1pm. Entry £5 cars/small vans, £10 transits. More info: 07879035535 email friendsofdcp@ talktalk.net Friends of Daventry Country Park Saturday 3rd May – Sunday 14th September Bridge Nursery Open Gardens Tomlow Road, Napton, Warwickshire, CV47 8HX Gardens open 10am-4pm Sunday 4th May & Monday May 5th Plant Fair HPS Hardy Plant Society are holding a plant Fair at Holdenby House NN6 8DJ 10.00am-4.00pm.Over 20 specialist nursery stalls, entrance to the gardens and falconry display on monday, activities for the children Entrance £5, Children £2.50 Tuesday 6th May Coton Manor Open Gardens for NGS 12pm-5.30pm £7 Child £2.50, light refreshments tel:01604 740219 or visit website www.cotonmanor. co.uk or NGS website for more details

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

Wednesday 14th May and Wednesday 11th June Tea Dance for people living with Dementia. 2.30pm -4.30pm Galanos House, Banbury Road, Southam, CV47 2BL, 01926 812185. Talk to specialist professionals and meet carers and people suffering with dementia, join us for a chat over a cuppa and a cake. Thereafter the 2nd wednesday of the month (THIS IS OPEN TO EVERYONE)

Saturday 17th May Sky Dive for Animals In Need Jump from 13,000ft to experience the rush of the free fall for 30 seconds then your shoot opens for an exhilarating ride down to the ground! Email us now at admin@animals-in-need.org to join our team. Sky dive fundraiser at Hinton Airfield Brackley (looking for dare devils to sign up!)

Saturday 10th May National Vegetarian Week Daventry & Rugby Area Vegetarians and Vegans - National Vegetarian Week 9.30am2pm at The Methodist Church, Daventry. www.daventryvegetarians.btck.co.uk or email daventryvegetarians@orangehome.co.uk or www. facebook.com/daventryvegetarians Sunday 11th May Garage Sale Nether Heyford 10am-4pm Village map £1. Refreshments in the village hall. www.netherheyfordvillagehall.co.uk.

Sunday 18th May Badby & Newnham Open Gardens 2pm-6pm, 5 gardens open Admission £4 children free, teas. See NGS website for more details

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Get in touch...

If you are organising a charity or community event, then let us know so we can publicise it for you. Just email info@villageemporium.co.uk

Sunday 18th May Weedon Craft Market Weedon Village Hall, West Street, Weedon, NN7 4QU 10am-4pm Shop for locally produced arts & crafts, and stop for a cuppa and a slice of cake too! Approximately 25 stalls with unique handcrafted products. Free entry

Sunday 25th May Strutt Your Mutt - Irchester Country Park 10.30am £5 per dog Grab your leads and canines and head on down to Irchester Country Park. Spend an hour walking around the fabulous park plus meet up with lots of other dog owners and furry friends. Hosted by Animals In Need and Nathan Watson Dog Trainer. If you don’t have a dog (or they aren’t too sociable) we have over 50 dogs in the rescue kennels who would love to attend. If you want to volunteer to walk one of ours please contact us at admin@animals-in-need.com A WEEK IN ADVANCE so we can make arrangements. Please arrive EARLY as it can take quite some time to park your car on this busy weekend! Sunday 25th May Garage Sale Lilbourne village, Nr Rugby 10-2pm please come and visit Monday 26 May Long Itchington Carnival Procession & Fete Celebrate 100 years of this wonderful village tradition. From 12 noon in the Village Square. Marching band, dancing displays, fancy dress competition, mini land-train, birds of prey display, refreshments, games and much more Saturday 7th – Sunday 8th June Haddonstone Show Gardens East Haddon 11am-5pm www.haddonstone.com or NGS website for more details

Out & about

Sunday 8th June Harpole Open Gardens 1pm-6pm Admission:£4.50, children under 7 free. See NGS website for more details Saturday 7th June – Saturday 14th June Strawberries & Cream Week The Bramble Patch, Weedon NN7 4QU 10am-5pm daily ( except Sunday. Exhibitions from Daventry Embroiderers Guild, This years Strawberries & Cream challenge is to make a cushion on the theme of ‘Chelsea Flower Show’ all in aid of Macmillan Sunday 8th June Kilsby Open Gardens 1pm-5pm Admission £4 children free, 4 gardens. Plants for sale at Pytchley House. Refreshments at the Village Hall, Exhibition of Embroidery in Kilsby Room by “ In Stitches” from Barby, Open Church hosting display of Artwork by pupils of Kilsby Preschool, Look out for Yellow signs and balloons which mark the venues.

Wednesday 11th June Fashion/Pamper Evening in aid of Macmillan From 6pm. The Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford £15 per ticket, includes fashion show, buffet, glass of wine. There will be a variety of stalls, a fashion show, pamper treatments, raffle and music. Great for individuals or girly groups. To book a ticket, donate a raffle prize or host a stall or for more information contact Sara 07718 318543 Wednesday June 11th. – Saturday 14th Spectres, Spies and Flying Pigs Guilsborough Music & Drama Society presents: ‘Spectres, Spies and Flying Pigs’, (a murky & quirky chronicle of Guilsborough’s past), by Pam Townsend. Guilsborough Village Hall. For further details contact 01604740900 or box office on 01604740549.

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out & about Saturday 14th June Village Fete - Nether Heyford 2pm-4pm on village green. Raffle, tombola, side shows, classic cars, local bands, fun fair, and lots more. Stall hire is available. Tel. Jane Inwood 01327342376.FREE ENTRY. Refreshments in the village hall. Opening ceremony is at 2pm but regular visitors will know that some attractions open earlier www.netherheyfordvillagehall

Saturday 21st June Dunchurch Fête - has been an annual event for over 30 years now and has raised many thousands of pounds for local good causes and charities. 2014’s Theme : Horrid Histories! Fancy dress parade, stalls and refreshments, grand raffle, bouncy castle and much, much more. Dunchurch Festival Group is again holding an open mic’ tent event at the fete so come on and have a go!www.dunchurchevents.org. uk for the latest information.

Regular events Every Tuesday of the month Daventry Country Market - 8.30am-11.30am Home baking, local meat, crafts, plants, tea and coffee. The Churchrooms, Foundry Place, NN11 4AA Everyone welcome, call Anne 01327 876671 for more details. Braunston Twinning Association - are looking for people to take part in a foreign exchange trip to Quincy-Voisins 2nd -5th May 2014 call Ray Hutchinson 01788 890899 for more details

Saturday 21st – Sunday 22nd June Flore Open Gardens 11am-6pm £5 adults, children free. Teas & lunches. See NGS website for more details

Saturday 21st June-Sunday 22nd June Kislingbury Flowerpot Weekend Saturday -11am with a Fun Run, stalls, music, food & drink, owls, bees. Sunday - 10.15am Duck race, dog show, classic cars plus childrens’ fair rides. www.kislingburyfayre,.co.uk or Alison on 07770528188 for more info. Saturday 28th June West Haddon Church Fete 2pm. To be opened by Ben Cohen. Teas, bouncy castle, tombola, raffle, games & many more stalls. Held in West Haddon vicarage garden. Saturday 28th June Badby School Rose Day & Annual Summer Fete 1pm. Watch the crowning of the Rose King and Queen along with traditional dances performed by the children of Badby School. Refreshments from the bar or tea tent, indulge in fresh strawberries and try your luck in the raffle. Side shows and stalls to entertain all of the family, even a BBQ! If you would like to volunteer to help, or are interested in having a stall at the event please contact fobsinfo@yahoo. com for details

Watch out for Long Buckby Feast events at the end of August.... for more details contact Long Buckby newsagents.

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Out & about GMADS presents

11th -14th June 7.30pm

(plus Saturday matinee at 2.15pm)

Guilsborough Village hall

£8 tickets from Frances on 01604 740549

An exhibition accompanies the production.

Doors & bar open @ 6.30pm (Saturday matinee @1.30pm)

(Book early for best seats)

ROARINTORUGBY A FAMILY FRIENDLY BIKE FESTIVAL

Sunday 18th May 2014 10.30am - 3pm Rugby Town Centre

2014

keFest BiRUGBY

Bikes l Displays l Ride-in Children’s activities l Music l Food Further information: 01788 890789 Email: info@ucltd.co.uk

www.rugbytowncentre.co.uk/bikefest

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out & about

2014

FREE

festival guide Available in June from Rugby Visitor Centre and local businesses

27 June to 13 July

ÂŠHeather Koumi

ÂŠStereogra ph

More information from Rugby Visitor Centre T: 01788 533217 E: visitor.centre@rugby.gov.uk

www.rugbyfestivalofculture.co.uk 14

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Out & about

Specialists in wedding and engagement rings Leading Specialists in all jewellery repairs.

Also gold bought for cash Daventry’s longest trusted gold buyers.

61 High Street, Daventry, NN11 4BH Tel: 01327 700060

Online shop

www.daventryjewellers.co.uk

SANDY LANE, CHURCH BRAMPTON, NORTHAMPTON, NN6 8AX www.bhgc.co.uk info@bhgc.co.uk 01604 84 39 39 Members, Visitors & Societies can all enjoy the stunning views from the balcony, the beer garden, real cask ales & great home cooked food. Please call to book your society or to make a group booking for food. Special offer for societies organiser plays free, reduced priced packages or visit www.bhgc.co.uk for more special offers!

Planning a celebration? make sure you book a viewing at Brampton Heath Golf Centre. Professional & friendly service from the very start right through to your special day. Brampton heath golf centre is an ideal venue for weddings, parties, anniversaries, Sunday lunches and even proms. Keep up to date with our facebook & twitter

Why not bring the children over to play our NEW & IMPROVED TRI GOLF COURSE. A specially designed course & use of equipment for FREE! Available until 6pm. Call 01604 84 39 39 option 1 for more details.

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

R p

Out & about

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Out & about

Sum

at Lamport! g n i m er is co m

• The home of the garden gnome! • Beautiful house and gardens dating back more than 400 years • Open Wednesday/Thursday afternoons and Bank Holidays

Lamport Hall

Lamport, Northampton NN6 9HD

• Refreshments available • Superb wedding venue!

COMING UP: 4/5 May Craft & Design Fair 25/26 May Festival of Country Life

Tel: 01604 686272 admin@lamporthall.co.uk

Full details on our website: www.lamporthall.co.uk

Full Family Golf Membership

just £ 739.00!

Covers you, your spouse, and two children or grandchildren under 18, for 12 months golf.

www.farthingstone.co.uk

Tel 01327 361291 Email info@farthingstone.co.uk

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out & about

The

out For a day ference with a dif

Fleet Adventure

at Union Canal Carriers Established 1968

As a family owned and run business we understand family holidays, taking the young for their first canal boat trip or revisiting old memories with old friends we have just the boat here at Union Canal Carriers.

A canal holiday can be enjoyed by all ages and offers something of interest to everyone. Your boat becomes your home and the canals offer you freedom, adventure and relaxation.

Situated on the border of rural Northamptonshire and Warwickshire our boat yard at Braunston is at the heart of the canal network. With the junction of the Grand Union and Oxford Canals minutes away we can offer wonderful views of the Warwickshire countryside - its an exciting place to start a holiday or a day out.

We are proud of our fleet and you are welcome to visit at any time but please phone first to make sure the craft you wish to view will be available.

We have 15 hire boats sleeping 2-12 people and a very popular 12 seater day boat so if you wish to cruise the Warwick Ring or pootle down to a pub for Sunday lunch the choice is yours. Union Canal Carriers Ltd, Braunston Pump House, Dark Lane, Braunston, Northants NN11 7HJ Email bo@unioncanalcarriers.co.uk

You can hire this boat for a day

For up to 12 people Ouzel ll is fully equipped with galley, h & c water, gas ring, flushing toilet, seating for 12 & buoyancy aids on request

Great value! Great fun!

No experience required, Instruction given Choice of scenic routes Ideal for family or other social occasions Have a canalside picnic or lunch in a pub

Weekdays- £120 incl Weekends / bank holidays- £155 incl Telephone 01788 890784

www.unioncanalcarriers.co.uk Tel: 01788 890784 Come to The Barn for a warm welcome and freshly prepared home made food. We are open 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm. On Sundays we serve a traditional roast lunch, and our afternoon teas any day of the week are a real treat, (booking advised).

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

We also run creative workshops, can provide buffets for the home or office, or with it’s private function area a great location for parties, business meetings or celebrations of any kind. For more information please look on our web-site or give us a call.

Call us on: 01327 349911 email us at:

eat@thebarnrestaurant.net

Visit our web-site: www.thebarnrestaurant.net The Old Dairy Farm Centre is home to a range of independant shops, including ladies clothes, furniture and gift ideas

Free Parking, Free WiFi

Friday 18th July, 7pm For tickets and more information www.thebarnrestaurant.net

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Out & about

Like us on facebook

Dexter steak pies & apple pies now available from our farm kitchen.

Canal Turn Farm Shop Meats reared and butchered on the farm Top quality fresh veg, oils & preserves

See lambs & piglets in the field

e c u d o r P y t i l a Qu ice v r e S y l d n e i r F

Free Range Pork, Lamb, Chicken & Beef Home made cottage pies Gluten free meat & seasoning sachets ½ Lamb butchered £75 ½ pig butchered £95 Homemade kebabs, bbq meat and marinades Ice cream Cheeses

For enquiries please call Dawn on 07976 550481

www.canalturnfarmshop.co.uk

Whilton Locks, Northamptonshire NN11 2NH www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out & about

Special Occasion? Choose the perfect outfit from

Nina Wornham

our beautiful children’s range of:

 Gorgeous christening wear Fashion Studio &bridesmaid Boutique Now Open  Stunning dresses  Jacket and waistcoat suits COUTURE CLOTHING FOR WOMEN WHO LOVE INDIVIDUAL  Communion Wear STYLE

Designed & Produced In Our Own Clothing Studio in England

Shape & Size Friendly Sizes 10-26 11, High Street Long Buckby Northamptonshire, NN6 7RE Tel 01327 843275 Email ninawornham@gmail.com

www.ninawornham.co.uk

Special Occasion?

Open Tues-Sat 9.30am-5pm.

Special Occasion?

beautiful range of: Choose the perfect  Gorgeous outfit from our beautiful christening wear range of:  Stunning N Christening wear N bridesmaid Flower girl dresses dresses  Jacket N Jacketand and waistcoat waistcoatsuits suits  Communion N CommunionWear wear New collections collections now in stock. Spring/Summer Mayoral, Emile et Rose, from ,Sarah SarahLouise, Louise, more...Street, 8 Albert Mayoral, Timberland Emile et and many 8 and Albert Street, Rugby CV21 Rugby CV212RS 2RS Rose much 01788 570555 more... 01788 570555

our beautiful children’s range of:  Gorgeous

Money Well Spent Money Well

SPECIAL Choose the perfect outfit from our OCCASION?

Choose the perfect outfit from

 Stunning  Jacket

christening wear

bridesmaid dresses

and waistcoat suits

 Communion

Wear

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

Rugby CV21 2RS

01788 Open ~ Weekdays to 570555 5.30pm Saturday until 5pm ‘phone: 01327 842884 useful.things@btinternet.com

Special Occasion? 20

Please Choose mention the The perfect Village Emporium when responding to adverts

Out & about

FREE PARKING

Masterchef judge William Sitwell

talls rink s d d n ns ood a tratio 70+ f s n o dem ps chef rksho o w fun food odie o f & ent groups e tainm e enter for all ag n Fre hildre ts £5

dul try: A

•C

ter

ces w o T At

Don’t miss!

7th & 8

20 June se

our c e c a R

Saturday will see one of the highlights of the festival – as Masterchef judge William Sitwell is gently grilled by one of the country’s most renowned interviewers – BBC broadcaster, Guardian journalist and author Mark Lawson. The Q&A will take place in the first floor of the Empress Stand at 10.30am on Saturday June 7. Not be missed!

www.towcesterfoodfestival.co.uk facebook.com/TowcesterFoodFestival

@towcesterfood

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Out & about

THE FIVE BELLS Bugbrooke

14 Church Lane, Bugbrooke NN7 3PB Tel 01604 831618

A choice of main meals and bottle of wine for two

only £

(not valid in conjunction with any other offer) bring this ad with you to get this offer (terms & conditions apply)

Opening hours 12-2pm Monday – Friday 5pm – 11pm Monday – Friday Licensed until midnight Friday & Saturday Weekends open serving breakfast from 10am.

Sunday roasts from £8.95

Things to do with Strawberries Strawberry Jam Makes 4 x 200ml jars 2kg small ripe strawberries 1.7kg jam sugar Juice of 2 lemons 1. Hull the strawberries and discard any rotten ones. Set aside about 10 of the smallest berries, and then mash the rest up into a rough pulp. Put into a wide, thick-bottomed pan, add the sugar and the lemon juice, and bring to the boil. Add the remaining strawberries to the pan, and put a saucer in the freezer.

2. Boil the jam for about 15 minutes, stirring regularly checking the setting point every minute or so during the last 5 minutes. To do this, take the cold saucer out of the freezer, put a little jam on it, and put it back in to cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, then it’s done. Strawberry jam is unlikely to set very solid though, so don’t expect the same results as you would with a marmalade. 3. Take off the heat and skim off the pink scum. Pour into sterilised jars and cover with a disc of waxed paper, seal and store.

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Handmade locally

Jill Curran Building portraits

Beautiful ‘One of a Kind’ House Replicas

Turning precious memories into unique customised momentoes. Further information at www.jillcurrancreations.weebly.com

Jill Curran is a polymer clay artist. She has always felt a need to create and make, but two years ago in a Craft shop in Daventry she picked up a small packet of polymer clay and wondered what to do with it. One thing led to another and she finally found an outlet for her creativity using this amazing material, in a totally unique way. It all began one day. After a few months of using polymer clay, Jill drove up her drive and looked at her house with new eyes. Within hours, she had created her very first house portrait and feeling very excited! She started by making house replicas for family members and could not believe the overwhelming compliments and comments. As her confidence grew she mastered new techniques and devised ways of creating house portraits. Her work begins with a photo or two of a house, memorable building, or holiday destination. From this, Jill creates a working drawing, with architectural details and dimensions. Matching colour to suit the building can be tricky and involves several trials of colour mixing until the tones are pleasing. Polymer clay is not useable straight from the packet – it needs conditioning and softening. For this, she uses a pasta machine and mixes and blends until she has found the perfect tones. From flattened polymer clay, she cuts out the main building shapes in correct proportions, and then adds windows, doors and other openings followed by the final surface features. The garden is possibly Jill’s favourite part of the whole process. Photos taken in winter often reveal drab empty beds or pots bereft of plants. Her work can make summer plants last forever as luxuriant foliage

7 St Johns Square, Daventry, NN11 4FG

For a wide range of hand knitting yarns and accessories to suit all budgets and tastes www.the-wool-baa.co.uk

Tel: 01327 703680

Bring in this Ad for a 10% discount and flower beds bloom within a few hours on her table. At this point, the creation is nearly complete, and a photo is emailed to the customer for approval and any changes are discussed. Once they are both happy, the portrait is fired in an oven at a low temperature for just less than half an hour. The firing can be quite nerve wracking as success is not guaranteed in the oven! If all goes well, Jill mounts the replica according to the customer’s choice. To win one of Jill’s totally ‘One Of A Kind’ pictures, see our competition on page 38.

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your garden

• • . • •As Feather Repairs well asedge carrying. out all domestic fencing07586304683 jobs we specialise and • are passionate in pest prevention and wildlife fencing solutions, • Concrete posts Post & rail Email protecfencingcontractors@gmail.com• particularly Otter fencing. • • Picket fence OAP discounts www.pro-tecfencingcontractors.co.uk Call today for a free quotation on 07586304683 • • Email: protecfencingcontractors@gmail.com Welcome to our family run fencing company, we cover Northamptonshire and all surrounding counties. We offer a and affordable tofor meet your needs. •professional Panels Gates fencing solution Call today a free quotation

Panels Gates Feather edge Repairs Concrete posts Post & rail Picket fence OAP discounts

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Things to do with Strawberries

Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Smoothie

Recipe makes 2 servings 1 cup soy milk 1/2 cup rolled oats 1 banana, broken into chunks 14 strawberries 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 teaspoons white sugar In a blender, combine soy milk, oats, banana and strawberries. Add vanilla and sugar if desired. Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve.

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Your garden

NOW OPEN

Repairs and service on all makes & models of lawnmowers, chainsaws, rotavators and strimmers Cylinder grinder service available up to 46 â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Collection & delivery service available on request

Where are we? www.skylarkgardenmachinery.co.uk Find us on Facebook OPENING HOURS: 9am-5pm Monday to Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday

% off

All servicing and repairs in May and June on presentation of this voucher

Sales of garden machinery and spares COMING SOON!

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Your garden

Garden Living

Having the right garden furniture and gadgets can really enhance the hours we spend in our gardens in the Summer. To help you decide what you need, consider how you will spend most of your time outdoors. Will it be daily alfresco dining with the family, weekend barbecues with family and friends, or just you relaxing in the sunshine with a good book? Knowing the function of your furniture and the amount of space you have available should also be taken into account. You might drool over a fantastic sofa with matching arm chairs in a catalogue, but do you really have the space to accommodate it successfully, or would smaller fold-away seats be more suitable? In addition to your outdoor space, think about where you will store your furniture in Winter. Whilst vinyl covers can protect your furniture from Summer showers, it really is best kept in a shed or garage during the worst weather. This is where fold-away pieces can be incredibly practical, or in some cases, you may be able to take pieces apart for storage too.

When considering the material of your furniture, consider durability and maintenance as well as appearance. Wooden furniture is popular and versatile, but needs regular weatherproofing. Metal items require less maintenance, but have the disadvantage of being hot to touch in the sun. Some colours of plastic furniture also become hot, and plastic may become brittle if left outside in all weathers. The safest colours are mid-greens, greys or natural wood. Many prefer muted tones, adding style and personality through bright cushions and tablecloths. Whatever you choose, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go on appearance alone. The most stylish items wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get used if they are incredibly uncomfortable. So do try out your intended purchases in-store to ensure they will help you to enjoy the outdoors, and not leave you fidgety or stiff.

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Your garden Morso Grill Forno £895 inc VAT

Once your furniture is in place, you’ll want something special for the males in the family – a barbeque! These can range from cheap and cheerful charcoal, through gas, to some serious pieces of outdoor cooking equipment. If you spend a lot of time as a family entertaining around the barbeque during the summer months then it may well be worth investing in a serious piece of outdoor culinary cool.

Home Farm Stoves Long Buckby 01327 843400 www.homefarmstoves.co.uk

When you’ve invested in the essentials it’s time to add some fun. Colourful tableware, wacky watering cans, amazing aprons, fairylights and tealights will all add to the atmosphere and help you create your perfect summer party grotto or a relaxing glade to chill out with friends and enjoy the summer months.

Watering cans from £14.99

It’s a man thing!

Etcetera, Rugby www.etceterarugby.co.uk

Aprons with captions Hot Stuff, Prick with a Fork, Serious about sausage, Urban Griller, King of the Barbecue, Live and Let Fry, £17.50 Etcetera, Rugby www.etceterarugby.co.uk

Morso Forno Outdoor Oven £1495 inc VAT Home Farm Stoves Long Buckby 01327 843400 www.homefarmstoves.co.uk

Wasp catcher £6.99 Etcetera, Rugby www.etceterarugby.co.uk

Esse Firestone £1800 inc VAT Home Farm Stoves Long Buckby 01327 843400 www.homefarmstoves.co.uk

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your garden

Garden sheds Potting sheds Chalets Playhouses Tidy stores Custom sheds

FREE delivery & assembly on ALL sale sheds

Call us now on 01858 575618 or buy online at www.insheds.co.uk Woodside Farm - Stanford Road - Welford - Northamptonshire - NN6 6HG Tel. 01858 575 618 - Email. sales@insheds.co.uk

Grow Your Own Fruit & Vegetables

Skilled Arborists / Tree Surgeons Full Qualified Climbers for all Tree related operations (NPTC Accredited)

Large to Small and dangerous tree removal Tree Report disease inspection & identification Hedge Trimming & Planting Garden Maintenance Over 8 years of trade experience Fully insured for tree works Free No obligation quotation Complete Tree Care Pruning, Dismantles & Canopy Reductions Logs orders and delivery

timber_tech@outlook.com

07528 332959 / 07703 781422 Find us on Facebook

•

RHS qualified

•

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•

Border and lawn care and maintenance

•

Pruning and general tidy up work

•

Garden planning and design

•

Consultation Service

Now Available In Store Daventry Road, Barby, Nr Rugby, CV23 8TG Tel: 01788 890 314

www.barbynurseries.co.uk

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

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

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01327 843 400

8 High Street Long Buckby NN6 7RD

call

Wood burning and multi fuel stoves, range cookers, accessories and fuel

commercial, inDustrial & Domestic applica

Drives, paths, parking ar

Stockists of ESSE Firestone - outdoor cooking has never looked so good!

Your garden

Drive Cleaning... Patio Cleaning... Decking Cleaning... Amazing results from your local pressure washing specialist. Using professional equipment we deliver fantastic results making your drive, patio, decking or even garden furniture look like new.... Before

After

“ My drive is fab – the washing has made a huge difference to my garden. It makes everybody else’s drive look very shabby!”

Jane H, Rugby

Foraa FREE FREE No For NoObligation Obligationquote quote call Rod call Rod on: on: 01788 01788 890652 890652 www.jumbojetwash.com

www.homefarmstoves.co.uk

Your approved Esse stockist

● Boost your income from genuine add on services ● Make the most of every job you do by promoting your service at the same time ● Make an instant success of your business by avoiding all our mistakes ● Develop a loyal following in your local area where word of mouth sells your service for you ● Deliver an excellent service using our carefully developed and tested techniques ● Get high quality leads from our partnership agreement with a leading consumables supplier

An Open Letter To All Potential Franchisees...

● Be profitable and competitive with our pricing and quoting model ● Maximise the multiple marketing streams to help you be successful ● Benefit from the clear, systemised business model ● Access the huge commercial and domestic market opportunities

The franchise fee per territory is just £9,995 + VAT (finance is available, subject to status). Our comprehensive franchise package includes all equipment needed, detailed operations manual and extensive training. We also operate a fixed monthly fee meaning you keep more of the earnings the harder you work. So if you like the sound of JumboJet and think it is the perfect opportunity for you to start your own business and benefit from everything it has to offer then contact us to arrange an initial meeting to find out more. For more information contact: Rod Honess Jumbojet email: enquiries@jumbojetfranchise.co.uk tel: 01788 890652 www.jumbojetfranchise.co.uk

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your garden

GBa&e

l Architectural design l New dwellings/extensions l Planning & building PROPOSED STREETSCENE OF PLOTS 1 regulations applications, etc l Sustainable energy & construction design & advice l Contract administration

Covering your area for all your architectural and/ or ecological requirements at competitive rates, established over 25 years

Bat Surveys l Protected species surveys l Phase 1 assessments l Mitigation advice & design l Natural England licence applications l Tree surveys l

Stockists of the stunning morso outdoor living products range Wood burning and multi fuel stoves,r ange cookers, accessories and fuel

ECOLOCATION

01327 843 400

GBa&e, Ryton Organic Gardens, Wolston Lane, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Warwickshire, CV8 3LG.

8 High Street Long Buckby NN6 7RD

024 7621 7727

www.homefarmstoves.co.uk

admin@gbae.co.uk

www.gbae.co.uk

Your Morso Center of Excellence

Pitsford

is here Chapel Brampton A5199

A508

A43

A428

A5123 A428

A43

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Your garden

Sound and Vision In the last couple of months the weather has varied from warm and sunny to heavy downpours and overnight chills. However, the arrival of newborn lambs, the floating of buttery-coloured brimstone butterflies and the low buzz of queen bees searching for a new home, are all encouraging signs that warmer months are on their way. The allergy sufferers amongst you have probably already noticed that the tree pollen has been released in force for some weeks now, alder, birch and hazel being the prime culprits in early spring followed by elm, willow and oak a little later. But there’s nothing quite like the vibrant colour of the fresh green leaves that follows, injecting colour and life into the dark, wintery silhouettes of woodlands and hedgerows that have stood bleak and motionless over the last few months. Blackthorn is an early star of the season with its white blooms contrasting against its dark, thorny branches and brightening up motorway embankments and hedgerows throughout the country. However, by late April its flowers have begun to fade only to make way for the often-underrated hawthorn. Also known as the “Mayflower”, hawthorn is a staple shrub of British hedgerows and as its name suggests, it is at its best in May when its white flowers (often with a hint of pink) are in full bloom. It was often associated with love divination when a girl would pin such blooms over doorways during the evening of May Day celebrations and the following morning her future husband would come from the direction it was pointing...a tradition long since fallen by the wayside for some reason!

GBa&e

Woodland flora is at its best in early May when carpets of bluebells can often be enjoyed in local woodlands. This well known and well loved British flower can be an indicator of ancient woodland alongside species such as wood anemone, yellow archangel and wild strawberry as such plants thrive in the stable conditions provided by continuous woodland cover over centuries. Our summer migrants, such as chiffchaff, blackcap and a number of other warblers are now arriving to join in the melodious dawn chorus, which is particularly prolific at this time of year. Birds sing to attract a mate or to defend a territory and the keenest of them can start an hour before sunrise with robins, song thrush and blackbirds being the earliest to rise! I’ve been on dawn bat surveys waiting for bats to return to their roost when the birds have started singing when it’s still dark - I think there’s a good chance they can act as an alarm clock for the bats as well as those of us getting up for work! With such a profusion of sound and colour at this time of year, why not make the effort to visit your local woodland or nature reserve and let nature stimulate your senses! Anna Swift Principal Ecologist, ECOLOCATION

www.gbae.co.uk t: 024 7621 7727

ECOLOCATION

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Your home

Win a Living Bouquet worth £30 from Garden Gate Flowers Garden Gate opened their gorgeous flower shop last year. They use seasonal English cut flowers wherever possible and their styling is naturalistic with many ‘foraged’ added items. They also sell cut flowers, house plants, dried flowers, cards and gifts. Garden Gate also run classes in flower arranging and other skills. Further information at www.gardengaterugby.co.uk To enter just answer the following question correctly:

What colour is the flower speedwell?

How to enter

Entries must be recieved by June 6, winners willl be announced on June 9

Coffee cup trivia

Australia

Italy

Peru

Barbados

Jamaica

Portugal

Brazil

Jersey

Singapore

Caribbean

Kenya

Spain

Dubai

Majorca

St Lucia

Florida

Malaysia

Thailand

France

Malta

The Gambia

Goa

Mauritius

Tunisia

Greece

Mexico

Hong Kong

Minorca

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Your home

www.ransfords.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

01327 705310

Reclaimed Bricks Yorkstone Quarry tiles Wall Copings Chimney Pots Granite Setts Oak Floorboards Pine Floorboards Elm Floorboards Oak Beams Flooring Slate Building Stone Sandstone Flooring

NATURAL STONE £14.50m2 + vat RAILWAY SLEEPERS £19.50 + vat

Oak doors Stone Troughs Pine Doors

Brass & Iron Door Furniture Hand Forged Latches & Hinges

Butler Sinks & Sanitary Ware

RooﬁngSlates & Fittings Cast Iron Street Lamps

RooﬁngTiles & Fittings Fireplaces & Surrounds & Stoves Travertine...Slate...Porcelain...flooring NEW PLYWOOD SHEETS

Rutherford Way, Drayton Fields. Daventry, NN11 8XW

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your home

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AdAm CorCorAn

domestic Electrician Part P registered, Free quotes and reliable service

Waste Clearance Same or Next Day Service Easy Skip Alternative Probate/Void Clearance House/Garden/Office Clearance Single Items/Bulky Items Free Metal Collections Mobile Cash 4 Clothes Commercial Wheelie Bin Collections/Sales Trade Friendly

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DYSON SALE 20% Discount All Recon Vacs DC04 now £85 DC07 now £99 DC08 now £120 Spares and Repairs

Tel (01327) 438873 info@absolutelywasted.co.uk

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SUPPLY & INSTALLATION OF

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Your home

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

Your home

Win a ‘One of a Kind’ building portrait from Jill Curran Creations Jill Curran is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a unique replica of a memorable building of their choice. One of her building portraits can create a lasting memory of a very special place – maybe the first, much cherished house, or a reluctant move. She can turn memories into a miniature, customised memento – lasting forever. Or think of the place where the very special wedding, celebration, or christening took place, that too can be immortalised in a framed portrait, or a shallow relief house ornament on a wooden easel. Further information at www.jillcurrancreations.weebly.com

To enter just answer the following question correctly:

What material does Jill make her replicas building from?

How to enter

Entries must be recieved by June 6, winners willl be announced on June 9

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Your home

Discover a more beautiful way to heat your home at Just Stoves...

Actually, we’re more than Just Stoves. Call in to our newly refurbished showroom in the heart of Kilsby to discover a greener and more beautiful way to heat your home. Many of our wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves burn with over 80% efﬁciency - meaning more cosy heat for you, and less damage to the environment. Because we’re experts in stove installation, we’ll discuss your options before arranging a complimentary visit to your home to assess your speciﬁc requirements. And we can set you up with everything you need to start enjoying your new stove - from companion sets to carbon neutral kiln-dried logs. So what are you waiting for? You could be enjoying a new stove next Winter - and for many years to come.

Rachel & Tim

Rachel & Tim Settle

Call in and see us at: 18 Independent Street, Kilsby CV23 8XL 01788 823 823 Click juststoves.co.uk

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your home

NEW ExclUsivE &

FABRICS

Up to

20% OFF

50%

25% OFF

OFF

selected Rollers and Verticals

Roman Blinds

Intu Pleated / Venetian / Wooden Venetians PLUS

20% OFF

Lifestyle shutters until 1st June

Foraafree free quotation quotation call Trevor on For call Tim on

01243 550 043 01327 842973 Mobile 07518 or 043 book online 809at www.apollo-blinds.co.uk/chichester www.apollo-blinds.co.uk/northampton

Inspiring Ideas, Expertly Delivered

Offers are for a limited period only and are subject to availability on selected fabrics, while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply.

Are you sweltering in the summer and freezing in the winter? Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions can solve these problems with low cost conservatory roof conversion systems that will give you back the room and space you wanted in the first place. We have over 40 years combined experience in the conservatory and roofing business. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do and we pride ourselves on the quality of workmanship and service that we provide. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll transform your conservatory into a room thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect every day of the year!

Call today for a free quote on 01604 217 818 For more information visit www.nulookroof.co.uk

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Your home

FREE survey call 0800-5-118-007 or 07827 974 375

Designs that are as individual as your home

Visit our studio at: 61 The Square, Dunchurch CV22 6NU 01788 813334 or 07812 540512 Open 6 days a week: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 4.00pm

Sat 9.00am - 3.00pm

lots of free parking home visits and evening appointments

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

Your home

STUART NICHOLS WASTE DISPOSAL If you need septic tanks, treatment plants, cess pits, grease traps, oil interceptors, deisel bunds emptied...

Or high pressure jetting or drains unblocked or for FREE advice call me on 01327

261476 for a quote

Stuart Nichols Liquid Waste Disposal Ltd

• Local & long distance moves • Household & oﬃce • Experienced trained staﬀ • Piano moves • Storage CALL US NOW ON 01327 876007 or 07966 194633

FREE QUOTES alltranz@tiscali.co.uk

Alltranz

Highlands Farm, Upper Boddington, Daventry, Northamptonshire NN11 6DW

T 01327 261 476 M 07970 474 974 E scnichols@btconnect.com www.stuartnicholswaste.com

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AlltranzLtd

Your home

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

Your home cut out and keep

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Before

After

Spills? Accidents? Cut out and keep this advert for emergency use!

White Knight Cleaning 0800 028 0041 02476 312332 07977 631734

find out more at... www.whiteknight-cleaning.co.uk

Bespoke wall and floor tiles Luxury stone tiles at incredible value for money For a free no obligation consultation, please call 07860 128 310 or 01327 437041

www.theceramicandstonehouse.co.uk Find us at The Heart of The Shires â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Weedon

Love your local

Delivering local business for local people

www.villageemporium.co.uk

Well worth a visit n n n

Over 30 stoves on display Free survey for all types of installation Huge range of fireside and home accessories

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Your home

Spring is here at Alpine and we are having a HUGE stock clearance event. Visit our large modern showroom where experienced staff are always at hand to help you. You will be spoilt for choice and amazed by our fantastic prices. Browse at your leisure, no pressure!

plus so much more...

Don’t delay visit Alpine today!

EXPERT ADVICE • FREE ESTIMATES PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATIONS We are here South Way

McDonalds

Alpine

Vicar Lane

FREE parking

7-8 Station Close, Daventry.

www.alpinecarpetwarehouse.co.uk Open: Monday - Saturday, 9.30am - 5.30pm

Telephone: 01327 301040

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your home New Free Standing Kitchen as seen at Grand Designs Live

GRAND UNION DESIGNS Concept House Watling Street Weedon Northants NN7 4QG 01327 340999

29 The Bell Plantation Watling Street Towcester Northants NN12 6GX 01327 353212

sales@granduniondesigns.co.uk www.granduniondesigns.co.uk

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Your home

15% OFF LIGHTING & MIRRORS HURRY! O FF ER END S 31ST MA Y

NORTHAMPTONSHIRES FINEST FURNITURE SHOP!

LIGHTING & MIRRORS | SOFAS, DINING & BEDROOM FURNITURE | ACCESSORIES & GIFTWARE

Bell Plantation | Towcester | Northants | NN12 6GX | 01327 354 707

www.karenjaneinteriors.co.uk

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

@K_J_Interiors

Your home

Cloudy2Clear – A Simple Way To Save Money 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

STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!

Broken or Damaged Windows? Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks? Want The Latest Energy Saving Glass? All Glazing Backed By Our 10 Year Manufacturers Guarantee Priority Freephone

0800 61 21118 www.cloudy2clear.com ...we make saving money perfectly clear... 46

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Business & IT

We are situated 2 minutes walk from Tesco Mereway 1

 Software & Hardware Problems.  PC Crashing or Not Booting.  Running Really Slow & getting Pop-up's.  Internet & email Setup.  Wireless & Cable Networking.  Virus Removal.  Setting up Broadband.  + Much More...

(A charge might be made for diagnostic work, PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS)

Family run Business Established since 1985

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

WILLOWEDGE

Accountancy & Taxation www.willowedge.co.uk

Just visit our website to see our Testimonials

V E ASSOCIATES Executive private hire & courier service

Are you Self Employed?

Do you find book keeping a nightmare: Why not let us take the strain?

• Book Keeping - keeping you up to date • Accounts preparation for your Year End • CIS Scheme & Self Assessment Accounts • Payroll Bureau including PAYE, Year End, P60’s • Free Consultation • Management Accounts Service available

Local Accounting Services for small businesses Northampton’s specialists in UK & airport transfers for personal and corporate clients • • • • •

Airport transfers Seaport transfers Business travel Private jet liaison Courier & document delivery

• • • • •

Wedding cars UK & holiday transfers Sightseeing tours Restaurant & theatre trips Up to six passengers and luggage

Fully licensed & insured with Northampton Borough Council

For more information or to book call now on: 07940 072754 or visit www.voyageruk.com ‘First class service at economy class prices’

Contact Elaine Pepper fmaat Phone 07525 010910 E mail Elaine@ve-associates.co.uk

English 4 English With respect, please allow me to re-write your company message in grammatically correct English for a more professional image.

Call Chris Bowyer, Language Specialist

07932 141290 / 01604 830124 chrisjbowyer@btinternet.com

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Business & IT

Building your Brand First impressions count—and that’s especially true for your business. And often that first impression is made by your brand identity and business graphics. At a minimum, your designs should look professional; ideally, they should get you noticed, reflect your differentiation, and leave an impression that makes your company unforgettable.

Entrepreneurs and small business owners often have two theories about brand design. Some think it involves designing a logo. Some think it’s a complicated, time-consuming process for which you have to engage an expensive agency to conduct focus groups and brainstorming sessions. The reality is somewhere in between. You do need a logo but first you need to lay solid foundations for your brand and understand your unique position in the marketplace now and for the future. Once developed a strong brand will engage your target audience, differentiate you from your competitors and communicate confidence and professionalism. In the long term it will make it much easier, and much more cost effective, for you to win business. It is important to start at the beginning – Step 1. This may sound obvious but starting at Step 2, and beginning the design process first, is a common mistake. Entrepreneurs often start busi¬nesses with a general idea about the structure of their company and the services they plan to offer. Then they run off, full of excitement, and create a logo. This makes the design process more difficult because their business’s underlying values and unique selling point are undefined. This can result in an inappropriate logo which either fails to tell a story about the company or is difficult to use as part of a cohesive brand. So for optimum results, start at Step 1 and define your unique position first. Find a way to stand out,

and finding your ideal clients and building a lasting relationship with them will become easier.

How to build a powerful brand for YOUR business Step 1: Definition You will notice that many of the questions and processes involved in developing your brand are the same as you may have already addressed as part of your business planning or marketing plan. If you haven’t already done a business plan or it was some time ago then it’s a great chance to define or reassess where you are and where you want to go. When you address this definition step first, before creating your brand, you will ensure that your brand is built on a solid foundation. Definition allows you to thoroughly understand your business and your customers. They can readily identify you as the most appropriate business to meet their needs. It Define who you are Trying to decide what is unique about you and your business will help you to understand who you are, what you do, and what makes you different. It will give you a strong position upon which to build your brand and marketing communication materials. In order to define your business’s position, you need to decide: 1. 2.

What business are you in? What is your mission and your 3 most important goals?

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Business & IT 3. 4. 5.

What are your core values? What are the services and/or products that you offer? What is unique about the services and/or products that you offer?

Who is your competition? Next you need to define your competition 1. Who Is Your Competition? 2. What Makes You Different? Who are your customers? Next you need to build up a picture of your customers so you can identify their needs and understand what motivates them. 1. 2. 3.

Who are your target market? How can you reach them? What is your competitive advantage – why will customers choose you?

Step 2: Design Your Brand Identity Once you’ve defined your unique position in the marketplace—who you are, what you do, and what makes you different—the next step is to communicate that visually, by designing a brand identity.

business to closing sales across the country, or to bringing in prospects online–which means that you’ll have to do less prospecting and marketing work offline. Go one step further and consider adding a followup tool to your brand identity repertoire. To keep in touch with your potential clients, you can use either a printed or online newsletter, postcard, or note card. Make sure that your choice of follow-up tool is well tailored to your business’s brand foundation and also is in a format that your target market will notice, read, and remember. A brand identity is a powerful tool to use in your marketing. It offers visuals that the customer learns to immediately relate to your business. This is called memorability. And the more they see your brand identity, the better the chance you will be top of mind when they or someone they know needs what you offer. Next issue: How to use your brand to create a profitable marketing strategy

At minimum, a brand identity for a small business consists of a: Logo: Your logo is the main visual element that will identify your business. It can be made up of just text, just an image (like Nike’s “swoosh”), or text with an image (called a “combination” logo). Small businesses benefit most from a combination logo because of the increased memorability and other advantages that come from associ¬ating both text and an image with your business. Business card: Your business card is typically the first of your marketing materials that a new client sees. It should clearly tell your client who you are and what you do at first glance. Website: A basic website can be anywhere from one to five pages in length. Establishing an online presence increases your credibility and enables you to do business and market online. This opens your

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Business & IT

5 Twitter Tips To Help Your Business Thrive! ✔ Abide by the 80/20 rule at all times ✔ Get involved with twitter hashtag hours ✔ Learn how to use RSS feeds ✔ Utilise those important twitter lists ✔ Talk to people! To find out how Green Umbrella can help your business call now on 01604 726758 or visit:

greenumbr3lla

juliadoherty

greenumbrellabiz

juliadohertygu

green umbrella

info@green-umbrella.biz

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Business & IT Exhibition Graphics & Pop up stands Stickers

Roller Banners

PVC Banners

Flags Booklet Printing

Posters

Flyers

Canvas Prints

Business Cards

Wide Format Plotting, Scanning & Copying

Document Binding

If you need it We can print it! technical wide format scanning & print

Call us now 01327 301669

indoor promotional graphics

outdoor display graphics

digital print, copying & finishing

We are your local on-demand Print Service Provider, offering a vast array of printed services to large and small businesses as well as individuals. Our walk in store is located on the Drayton Fields Ind Estate where we have a wide, diverse range of printed samples and display solutions for you to view, feel and compare before you commit to print. So why not call in, we think you’ll like it!

Unit 10 Baird Close, Drayton Fields Daventry, NN11 8RY www.image-it.co.uk

Chris Heaton-Harris Member of Parliament for Daventry

Keep track of Chris A14 ■

Yelvertoft ■ West

Kilsby ■

A45

As your MP I am here to represent everyone in Daventry, regardless of your political beliefs.

■

Braunston

■

Haddon

Long Buckby

DAVENTRY A425

Visit www. TheyWorkForYou.com A508 where you can look at Chris’ voting record and sign up to receive ■ Brixworth an e-mail whenever A508 A43 he speaks in Earls Barton ■ Parliament.

Weeden Bec ■

I look forward to hearing from you or seeing you out and about in Daventry. Chris Heaton-Harris Member of Parliament for Daventry

Chris Heaton-Harris MP House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA

S Telephone:

parliamentary office

020 7219 7048

■ Woodford Halse To help you keep in touch with me I have listed here some of the ways in which you can get in touch or keep up to date with what I am doing.

Contact Chris U Write:

www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/ chris_heaton-harris/daventry

Follow Chris on twitter @chhcalling

Email: chris.heatonharris.mp@ parliament.uk

W Website:

www.heatonharris.com

W Blogsite:

www.daventrycalling.livejournal.com

Promoted by Chris Heaton-Harris MP, House of Commons, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA. Printed by St. Ives plc, One Tudor Street, London EC4Y 0AH

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Business & IT

Coffee cup trivia

Across

24 Leaving (5)

1 Stares openmouthed (5)

Down

4 Brief written comments (5)

7 Suspended in the air (8)

8 Greek God of love (4)

1 mini-market, local store (7) 2 Iron (5) 3 Footwear for sliding on snow (3)

4 Minus points (9)

9 Most chaotic or sloppy (8)

5 Involuntary shakes (7)

11 Yorkshire river (4)

6 Premises which sell things (5)

12 Baby swan (6) 14 Room in a church (6) 16 Narrow opening (4)

10 Radical, zealot (9) 13 Plant covered with stinging hairs (7)

18 Elated (8)

15 Fence-like barrier (7)

20 Elliptical (4)

17 Romantic partner (5)

21 Implied (8)

19 Legal excuse (5)

23 Take an examination 22 Flat-faced dog (3) again (5)

Need an “Odd Job Man” for your technology with 25 years IT experience I can help.

PUZZLED BY TECHNOLOGY... What to buy? How to set it up? How to use all those extra features?

FOR YOUR: Computer, Broadband

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Call Tim your local “Gadget Guy” for a FREE, no obligation quotation on: 01788 823 759 Tel: 01788 823759 (Kilsby)

Mob: 07977 019147

Email: tim.banks@rienzo.co.uk

RTS

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On the road

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Vasstech Caters for Commercial Vehicles!

As a commercial vehicle driver we are conscious that a vehicle off the road can have a huge impact on your business. With this in mind we have a dedicated technician to prioritise commercial vehicle work to try and minimise the time your vehicle is off the road, saving you time and more importantly saving your business money!

To book your commercial vehicle service, call our Service Team on 01788 542555

All of our work is carried out using Genuine VW parts which have a 2 year warranty (at any VW dealership in Europe). Despite offering dealership levels of service, repairs and diagnostics our labour rate is significantly cheaper than the manufacturer dealership. At Vasstech we have specialised Technicians who attend VW training courses and we invest in specialist tooling meaning we are able to offer services such as ignition key replacements and control unit software updates a using the VAS6160 machine. We can carry out Class 4 MOTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on site, and can arrange your Class 7 MOT and take it to the local Test Station for you.

35-36 Webb Ellis Industrial Estate, Woodside Park, Rugby CV21 2NP

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

Look good, feel good n Reapply sunscreen after being in the water, or if you sweat a lot! n Do not stay in the sun longer than you would if not wearing sunscreen. It should not be used as an excuse for staying out longer. n Wear a hat with a wide brim or peak to protect your face and head. n Wear glasses to protect your eyes. Look for ones with a UV 400 label or that offer 100% block out of UVA and UVB rays. n With these measures in place, you should enjoy happy, problem free sunshine and, on a more serious note, reduce the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Top Tips for Sun Protection I have had a couple of holidays ruined after suffering from the effects of too much sun. To keep your holidays burn, blister and misery free, follow these ten top sun protection tips! n Cover up! Simple as it may sound, clothing offers the best protection around. n Avoid being in the sun between 11am and 3pm when its rays are the most damaging. n Use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. n Go for broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

ted c e t o r p t e G

Defence products SPF 50 and After Sun repair ÂŁ29.90 If you buy two products you will get Dermalogica beach bag for FREE.

Chrysanthemum Beauty

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Try an alternative... St Tropez Air Tan ÂŁ25 The Hidden Retreat Daventry 01327 300430 www.thehiddenretreat.com

n Make sure your sunscreen is not past its expiry date. Most have a shelf life of 2-3 years. n Apply sunscreen evenly, thickly and regularly.

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Look good, feel good I specialise in the following areas:

I am a member of the Counselling Society and work as a Bereavement Counsellor for Cruse as well as providing support for MIND. 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

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

Calla Lilly Nails Manicure & pedicure for all budgets, Gel polish and extensions. Hair Styling. Call 07786 117211 or 01604 832339 £10 manicure or pedicure £18 luxury manicure or pedicure Add gel polish for £5 Hair up starts at £8

Home Visits available Tues & Thurs PM

27 Nene way, Kislingbury, Northampton NN74AS

special offer Private physiotherapy service. Treating a comprehensive range of conditions; from joint and mobility problems, to sports injuries and post-operative rehabilitation.

Book an hour facial and receive an Overnight Skin Rescue set free! Ask how you can receive an Overnight Skin Rescue set free! This unique set helps maximise nighttime skin repair for revitalised skin every morning.

SARAH LITTLE MCSP BSc State registered with 22 years of experience Local service based at Crick Medical Practice Registered with all major health insurers

01788 822203 www.thevillagephysiorooms.co.uk villagephysiorooms@btinternet.com

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Includes travel sizes of: Overnight Repair Serum Age Reversal Eye Complex Super Rich Repair

Availanle at: Chrysanthemum Beauty Services

25 Edgehill Drive, Lang Farm, Daventry, Northants NN11 0GR

Available at: M: 07940 511115 T: 01327 702316

www.chrysanthemumbeauty.com

Look good, feel good Do you need help with any of the following? Depression & Anxiety Performance Issues Weight Control

Phobias Panic Hypnobirthing

Neck and Back Problems Muscle, Tendon, Ligament Injuries

Contact Pamela Morgan PGDipCBT, PDCHyp CBT Psychotherapist & Hypnotherapist Member

BSCH BABCP EMDR Europe Assoc.

Joint Problems, Arthritis Management

Tel: 07875 546678 Email: cbtherapy@sky.com www.cbt-emdr-hypnotherapy.co.uk

Sports Injuries Post Op Rehabilitation Work Related Injury and Prevention Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health , Urinary Incontinence

Helping you look and feel good since 2005!

01327 706833 Recognised by all health insurance companies

www.heartlandsphysio.co.uk

What change would improve your life?

l 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

www.daventryhypnotherapy.co.uk Su Ricks-McPherson The Abbey, Abbey Street, Daventry NN11 4XG

Telephone 0800 756 6558

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Your family

WRITE YOUR WILL NOW… DON’T PUT IT OFF.

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

Planning what will happen to all your belongings after you die is a difficult subject to deal with. However, a well organised estate is possibly the greatest gift you could leave your loved ones.

Office: 01604 889 073

Mobile: 07453 323 922

Email: enquiries@rafterwills.co.uk

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

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your family Winter has come and gone, the sun is shining (well, some of the time at least!) and it’s time to dust off that helmet, put air in the tyres and get on your bike!

Get on your bike! Bike riding is something we all loved as children. Surely you remember those family days out, with dad huffing and puffing his way up the hill at two miles per hour on his mountain bike as mum glides effortlessly past on her racer? Plus if your dad was anything like ours, your bike rides would consist of an hour on the bike, three hours spent having lunch and a couple of drinks at the village pub and then an hour back home.

fitness levels and Vitamin D) and yes, the social aspect, such as cycling with friends and family, or breaking your day up with a pub lunch.

However, as we get older, learning how to drive and owning our own car is suddenly so much ‘cooler’ than cycling. Who wants to get all hot and sweaty when you could be getting from A to B in air-conditioned comfort?

Bike looking a bit sorry for itself? But we promise, once you have got over the initial burn, aches and pains that come with any sort of exercise, you will remember exactly why you loved bike rides as a child. The quiet, peaceful country roads, the breeze in your hair, the exhilaration as you head down that steep slope, the obvious health benefits (increased

If the last time you rode your bike was about the same time that Prince suddenly wanted to become known as ‘The Artist Formerly Known as Prince’, it’s likely that it’s going to need a bit of attention before your first jaunt. In fact, you may have to bite the proverbial bullet and buy a new one (particularly if the

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Your family only bike you have is that much-loved Raleigh Chopper from 1975...) Located on Cambridge Street in Rugby, Thorntons Cycle Centre has been offering a comprehensive repair service, as well as a huge selection of cycles, parts and accessories since 1969. From your child’s first bike to road and fitness models, you are sure to find a bike that perfectly suits your needs and budget. Thorntons Cycle Centre also has mountain bikes, town and comfort bikes, BMX bikes, electric bikes – even folding bikes – in stock. All bikes are fully assembled and thoroughly checked and a free first service comes with every sale. Alternatively, if your current bike just needs a bit of TLC, take it along to Thorntons, where they will carry out an in-depth service and ensure that any repairs are made, efficiently and affordably.

Recommended local cycle routes

G et fit and have fun as a famil y ! With over 200 bikes on display in our 2-floor showroom There’s someThing for everyone! You can expect excellent service and plenty of expert advice from our friendly, knowledgable staff when you visit…

BIKES

ACCESSORIES

SERVICING

• All cycles are fully • Free first service on • Fully comprehensive repair service assembled and all their new cycles checked before they • Vast range of spares • Gift vouchers now leave the premises available and accessories

THORNTON’S CYCLE CENTRE

Est. 1969

The ONE STOP SHOP for all your cycling needs

100 Cambridge St, Rugby CV21 3NH

Tel: 01788 572440

Visit our website: www.thorntonscyclecentre.co.uk for individual bike specifications

• Pitsford Water – an attractive seven mile route around the reservoir • Rugby to Barby to Kilsby loop – just over ten miles, with plenty of pubs along the way. There are also plenty of canal towpaths just begging to be cycled along taking in a number of pubs, a working windmill and the Gongoozler’s Rest, a narrow boat cafe at Braunston Marina. So what are you waiting for? Get on your bike, get out into the fresh air and enjoy the ride!

There are plenty of cycle routes in the local area that suit all ages and levels of ability and fitness. • Draycote Water – a generally flat circuit of almost five miles around the reservoir

www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

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Music Tuition Singing Keyboard Guitar Drums Bass Music theory Rehearsal space All ages and abilities welcome... Louise 07931 583681 (singing) David 07746 569288 (keyboard) Joe 07594 280853 (guitar & music theory) Maddie 07841 136274 (drums) James 07766 302609 (bass)

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Please ensure that you check your proof thoroughly and advise any errors prior to the ment is to be printed as is. We cannot accept any responsibility for any variation in co

Chris Bowyer – Pianist Reviews, Private Functions, Pubs & Clubs 07932 141290 / 01604 830124 chrisjbowyer@btinternet.com Repertoire of over 200 classic and popular tunes. Playable piano preferable but not essential.

Give your business a boost! Advertise here for as little as £18 per month for an 1/8th page Reach over 27,000 homes from as little as £45 per month Call 01788 298050 or email info@villageemporium.co.uk

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Dance Centre of Excellence

Brixworth Village Dental Practice starting Tuesday 17th September

with EMMA in NorthantsSpratton & Warks Road, ADULT DANCE Brixworth

CLASSES

EVERYwelcome... TUESDAY Northamptonshire, NN6 9DS MONDAYS (9.30am) STAVERTON Village Hall Everyone Ballroom (8pm to 9pm) WEDNESDAYS (7.00pm) DAVENTRY Community Centre No experience required... Latin (9pm to 10pm) T 01604Come 880293 THURSDAYS (10.45am) SOUTHAM Leisure Centre on your own or bring a partner! Classes for all levels, experience not required enquiries@bvdental.co.uk FRIDAYS (10.00am) NETHER HEYFORD VillageEHall Come on your own or bring a partner

Graham Adams Centre, SOUTHAM, CV47 0LY £6.00 p/p per class (block booking discounts available) Get your FIRST FITSTEPS CLASS with me absolutelywww.bvdental.co.uk FREE!!

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Experience the New Dance Fitness Phenomenon!

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www.academyno1.com Ballroom and Latin Classes also held in Daventry, plus Private Tuition, Ballroom, LatinWedding and ArgentineDance Tango Classes and Social Events Corporate also held in Daventry, Private Tuition, Wedding Dance Choreography, Choreography, TeamplusBuilding and Dance Corporate Team Building and available Dance Entertainment upon request. Entertainment uponavailable request.

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www.villageemporium.co.uk • 01788 298 050

Your family New Classes in your area! Fun, interactive and imaginative classes for children now in Daventry, Long Buckby and Weedon Freedom of expression is the motto of these new and innovative POD’s from Khameleon Kompany. Built around fun, they promise to teach your child new skills through self motivation and inspiring creativity. YouthPOD is for 4-16 year olds and is a youth theatre with an emphasis on confidence building. Each term the children construct their own shows and every single child has the opportunity to take centre stage if they wish to. Never pushing, only encouraging, YouthPOD supports each child’s individual development. ToddlePOD is for pre-schoolers and has been structured on the EYFS (early years learning guidelines) to promote imagination, story comprehension and expression using acting, singing and dancing. Each class encourages adult/child interaction and freedom to explore. PartyPOD specialising in event entertainment and birthday parties, PartyPOD bring all the skills they have to ensure the best party EVER! PeaPOD is for all children wishing to explore food and learn basic cooking skills. Every class involves a hands-on cookery lesson plus explores food origins and how food is used in our bodies. With games, interactive props and child friendly recipes, every child will learn to love and appreciate food. For more information or to book your child’s place please go to www.khameleonkompany.co.uk or email us on

YouthPOD Building confidence, skills and having fun with the performing arts

ToddlePOD Mini performance sessions for pre-schoolers

PartyPOD Fabulously fun entertainment

PeaPOD

Fun Food exploration sessions.

ask@khameleonkompany.co.uk or call 01327 705012

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Learn to... Rustic Pumpkin Sewing Café Regular classes and workshops in the café

Something for everyone.

Learn new skills and make new friends in a warm and friendly environment over coffee and cake.

Get Creative at ThCeaRféustic Pumpkin Sewing

Summer holiday workshops for children

Call Patsi on 07472 998698

If you’re inspired by everything vintage and have had your creative juices tickled by the ‘Sewing Bee’, then you’ll love the Rustic Pumpkin Sewing Cafe and Coffee Shop in Rugby. Located upstairs in Vanilla, Albert Street.

Run a range of practical and flowery workshops for children and adults.

The Rustic Pumpkin Sewing Cafe has become a haven for sewers, knitters and craft enthusiasts. Sit and knit, arrange to meet friends for coffee and cake, or why not set up a craft group, the choice is yours. The cafe positively encourage new craft circles to use the cafe to meet, chat and share their love of all things crafty. You can buy everything you need for your projects from their beautiful range of fabrics and haberdashery, from vintage inspired fabrics to kits, ribbons, buttons and books. Its a little piece of haberdashery heaven!

For more information

The Rustic Pumpkin Sewing Cafe and Coffee Shop is open from 9am - 2.45pm Monday to Friday and 9am-5pm Saturday. If you’d like to find out more visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/ Rustic-Pumpkin-Sewing-Cafe or call Patsi on 07472 998698 or bring your knitting and stop for a coffee and a natter - we’d love to meet you!

www.gardengaterugby.co.uk or call 01788 567488

Daxa wants to get your Pulses going! Learn to love: lentils, pulses, or dhal, whatever you call them they’re a type of legume. With 7 great Health benefits and amazing value for plant-based protein, you can’t afford to miss out these workshops.

Come along to discover how to cook a selection of delicious and authentic homemade Indian dishes! Want to know more or to book your place then email me at daxapanchal@hotmail.com today!

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Recipe

Stuffed chicken breast with asparagus mousse Shopping list 4 chicken breasts, skinless with fillets still attached 1 pot double cream 1 bunch asparagus 2 egg whites Seasoning New potatoes Serves 4 Method Remove fillet from the chunky breast and keep for the mousse. Trim asparagus 2â&#x20AC;? from the base then discard hard stem. With the tips cut from the top 4â&#x20AC;? leaving the middle stem to make the mousse. Blanch the asparagus for 4 minutes then refresh in cold water, this will keep the colour. Use the middle pieces that have been blanched and add to a food processor with the chicken fillets,

puree until smooth then add a pinch of salt and the egg and blend. Whilst the processor is still running add around 100ml of cream to make the mousse light but not runny. Do not over mix. Transfer mousse into a piping bag and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. To prepare the breasts, take a thin paring / utility knife and push it into the thickest part of the breast to make a pocket. Now, pipe in the mousse trying to get the filling all into the middle. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up. To cook, pan fry until golden, then put into the oven to finish for about 15 minutes or until when you press the breast it is firm with a nice spring. To serve, use the tips from the asparagus, a few new potatoes and a glass of dry white wine. Delicious!

Recipe supplied by Darren, The Countryman, Staverton www.thecountrymanstaverton.co.uk

Summers here! Check out our things to do with strawberries on pages 22 and 24

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Your family

Quinton House School & nursery Independent, co-educational 2 – 18 COMe AnD see Our ChilDren AT wOrk AnD plAy

Open MORnInGS Tuesday 13th May 9am – 12 pm Tuesday 10th June 9am – 12 pm A few places still available in our two small reception classes for september 2014. For more information or to reserve a place at our Open Morning please contact Trish Davies, Admissions Manager, on 01604 684828. www.quintonhouseschool.co.uk

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Feature

d a e r d o o Ag Bridget Jones - Mad about the Boy So Bridget is back. This time with kids and without husband - not really a spoiler, unless you have been living under a rock for the last year. Mark Darcy is dead, and our heroine is left to ‘keep buggering on’ in her own inimitable fashion. Most of the headlines as the book was published last year, focused on Darcy’s demise and on the fact that Bridget has found a toyboy. It is the first of these points that sets the tone of the book, which opens four years after the event, tempering the typical comic misunderstandings that result from a return to the dating scene with a resounding sense of the intense sadness of widowhood. Mark Darcy is a constant presence, either in Bridget’s own reminiscences or in the careful efforts of others to avoid mentioning him. The format is the same as the previous two volumes, (surely there is no-one left in the country who hasn’t read them?). Bridget still counts the calories and has added an obsession with collecting Twitter followers. Some of the old faces are still there too. Jude and Tom continue to provide advice and alcohol, whilst Daniel Cleaver is a not-quitereformed godfather to Billy and Mabel. And Bridget’s mum may have retired, but is far from retiring...

Of course, the plot twists may be obvious from the outset, but as ever, the fact that we genuinely care about the characters keeps us reading and keeps us involved. Some readers may never forgive Helen Fielding for spoiling our illusions that Bridget and Mark Darcy would live happily ever after, but others will find this both amusing, moving and, at times, uplifting.

Maps Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski Every home should have a good atlas - for a child there is little better than travelling the world by turning the pages. ‘Maps’ is not exactly an atlas, but for any child wanting to embark on their own adventure of the imagination, it is an absolute must have. For a start it is a big book – in A3 format, almost designed for lying on the floor and gazing at. Each page covers a country, with beautiful illustrations of key cities, wildlife, landmarks and peoples. Two children from that country feature, and there are facts about languages and population. Quite simply, you could stare at each page for hours. William Morris famously said that you should have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful. This book is both. Buy it.

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Barefoot Photographics Natural Light Photography Children and Pets are my favourite subjects!

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