MAY 2023 / £3.95
Inspiration and ideas for your big day
THE BEST OF SUMMER STYLE FROM POM AMSTERDAM AT WETHERBY'S OLIVIA GRACE
ALEXANDRA MARDELL The Leeds actress on leaving Corrie and wowing on Strictly RIPON Why Yorkshire's smallest city packs a mighty punch SUMMER FUN A bumper preview of the best events on the horizon
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We’re firm believers in rightsizing, not downsizing. When you move to an apartment at The Spindles in Menston near Ilkley, you don’t have to compromise. Instead you can feel excited that the outcome will be uplifting, liberating and life-enhancing. Discover a place where you can enjoy your own private apartment, and gain a host of on-site facilities, plus our friendly team are on-hand 24/7, 365 days a year with tailored personal care packages available should you need some extra support*.
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18 SUMMER PREVIEW
The best events heading to Yorkshire as the sun comes out
22 ALEXANDRA MARDELL
The Leeds actress on leaving Corrie and winning Strictly
26 STEVE RACE
The Scarborough photographer on how wildlife inspires him
28 ART
Formula One and Monaco dazzle with Alan Walsh
32 RIPON
It may be Yorkshire's smallest city, but it packs a hefty punch
42 LANDMARK
Find out why Pontefract Castle is known as the 'Key to the North' FOOD & DRINK
46 TASTING NOTES
Tuck into what's on the county's plate this month
48 EL GATO NEGRO
The man behind the tapas favourite on returning to Yorkshire
FASHION & BEAUTY
54 TOM-O
The founder, Sarah Thompson, on why sustainability is so key for her
56 JEWELLERY
Earrings that will make a really big statement
58 THE SHOOT
A touch of Dutch class found in Wetherby
With its beautiful countryside, pretty villages and historic market towns, Yorkshire is the perfect choice when it comes to choosing a holiday destination here in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a dog-friendly break or somewhere for that big family get-together, you are sure to nd that perfect holiday property with us.
EDITOR
MARK KEBBLE
ART DIRECTOR
PAWEL KUBA
SENIOR DESIGNERS
MIKE ROBERTS
SUZETTE SCOBLE
MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER
CARMEN GRAHAM
JUNIOR DESIGNER
JOE MUNSEY
PRODUCTION MANAGER
DANICA BRODIE
MEDIA CONSULTANTS
MELANIE HARDCASTLE
RACHEL STEAD
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
JERRIE KOLECI
CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER
ALEXANDRA HVID
DIRECTORS
CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ALEXANDRA HUNTER
MANAGING DIRECTOR
SHERIF SHALTOUT
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Yorkshire Hideaways is a holiday cottage agency showcasing an ever-growing portfolio of selfcatering properties throughout the county – from cosy cottages full of rural charm to luxury retreats oozing coastal chic.
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As longer, warmer days arrive, Lisa Byrne reflects on the county’s finest outdoor spotsincluding her own York garden
It was the Headingly-born Poet Laureate Alfred Austin who wrote, ‘The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul.’ And, if the past few years during the dreaded Covid lockdowns have taught us anything, then it’s about the importance of being outside in nature, watching the seasons turn and living in the present moment.
One of my first literary loves was the book, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and since then I’ve always preferred stumbling onto a hidden wildflower wonderland rather than a pruned to perfection parkland.
My favourite Yorkshire haunt to roam is the stunning grounds of Middlethorpe Hall
in Bishopthorpe. The grounds possess a maze of small gardens, bursting with unique and fascinating treasures. However, I have only recently learnt that the world’s first professional female landscape gardener, Fanny Rollo Wilkinson, lived at the hall and helped transform the grounds into a place of heavenly beauty. Fanny went on to lay out Vauxhall Park in London for the Kyrle Society, which helped the urban poor.
Of course, the county’s most famous gardener is Alan Titchmarsh, who says his most beloved spot in the entire country is from the Cow and Calf on Ilkley Moor, which sweeps down to the town below. “The view from the Cow and Calf rocks will always remain my favourite view. I grew up in this Dales town, and the view reminds me of how lucky I was to grow up in such a wonderful part of the country. Moors, woods, and riversides were my childhood playground.”
My own slice of heaven is our garden, just outside York, which my husband Davey tends to like a Royal Park, spending hours pruning and seeding, while our cocker spaniel Merlin chases squirrels and birds.
Don’t get me wrong, I love travelling and breathing in the heady scents of the Amalfi Coast or colourful spices of India. But sometimes there’s nothing better in life than sitting in your garden, listening to the bees, and sipping a chilled rosé.
Email lisabyrneyork@gmail.com with launches, events etc, and follow on Instagram lisabyrnepr and Twitter LisaByrnePR
Preparing for the coronation of HM King Charles III by visiting the new exhibition of royal treasures, part of the historic collection at York Minster.
•
Keeping healthy by getting a daily intake of delicious bone broth from health food Take Stock.
• Enjoying seeing my favourite bands in style at York Barbican’s VIP premium hospitality package in partnership with York Gin.
• Getting my steps up by taking
in James and Ola Jordan’s Dance Shred.
LISA BYRNE
Hellessy's fabulous Beatrix denim dress features an asymmetric metallic fringe hem and a square neckline with adjustable straps, £857. hellessy.com
Orchard Moon's luxury kimono robes are as so as silk but completely cruelty free, made from sustainably managed woodland. They are designed in London and made in Europe, £260. orchardmoon.com
Terry De Havilland is a legend on the shoe scene and he's back with a collection of Icons. Expect his trademark platform sandal in a variety of shades and fi nishes. terrydehavilland.com
New colours from Nailkind for spring include the delightful Out of The Blue, a pastel lavender blue that's vegan too. nailkind.com
We are loving this Luella Grey Felicity phone bag in blue, £39.50, available at Browns York. brownsyork.co.uk
Nitt studio is a unisex highend knitwear brand, taking its inspiration from the love of animals and nature. Each piece is made with high attention and technology and unique details which makes it timeless and iconic. nittstudio.com
Jo Malone London's Waterlily cologne has a dewy freshness that is enhanced with a fl ourish of jasmine sambac and neroli, £115. jomalone.co.uk
We're loving the Conran Shop's new cobalt blue iPhone accessories, which include a case, wireless charger and an airpod case. conranshop.co.uk
Blue is the new summer shade for Rosessence from Aubade, which also comes in black, cream, pale pink and red. Bra £105, tanga £49. ameliesfollies.co.uk
Indulge in the luxury of 5-star hotel quality towels, 800gsm of so ness each time you step out of a relaxing bath or hot shower. Made from 100% natural fi bre cotton. Prices from £15 inc vat and delivery. ukhomeliving.com
This season, immerse yourself in 500 years of creativity with Mirror Mirror: Reflections on Design at Chatsworth.
Unt il 1 October
9-20 MAY, LYCEUM, SHEFFIELD
From the imagination of Neil Gaiman, best-selling author of Good Omens and The Sandman, comes the National Theatre’s major new stage adaptation of The Ocean at the End of the Lane. Returning to his childhood home, a man finds himself standing beside the pond of the old Sussex farmhouse where he used to play. He's transported to his 12th birthday when his remarkable friend Lettie claimed it wasn't a pond, but an ocean – a place where everything is possible… sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
Until 4 June
YORK ART GALLERY
Art has the power to unite. It is transformative. It takes us to new places, and introduces us to new cultures, but most importantly, it reminds us of our humanity. The Aesthetica Art Prize brings together 21 award-winning artists who invite you to explore, discover and engage with themes from our rapidly changing world, including the ethics of representation, mass digitisation, and the continuing threats posed by the climate crisis. yorkartgallery.org.uk
ART
Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore both grew up in Yorkshire and claimed the landscape as a formative artistic influence. Specific landscapes continued to inspire them throughout their lives; Moore was so struck by a visit to Stonehenge in 1921 that he created a series of detailed lithographs of the stones some 50 years later, while Hepworth found herself inspired by the Cornish landscape she moved to in 1939. This exhibition brings together some of their earliest works.
hepworthwakefield.org
5 May
CARRIAGEWORKS THEATRE
Breathe is a rollercoaster love letter to music by SK Shlomo. Described by The Times as a “one-person music festival”, international beatboxing star SK Shlomo returns with awardwinning gig-theatre solo show Breathe: a stirring showcase of the lifesaving power of beats, bass and breathing. carriageworkstheatre.co.uk
MUSIC
5 May
SHEFFIELD CITY HALL
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox's ‘Life In The Past Lane’ Concert Tour is a celebration of the greatest 20th century musical genres, uniquely fused with the recognisable hits of our own modern era, for the perfect patina of vintage and modern. It will feature an ensemble filled to the brim with some of today's most exciting vocalists, instrumentalists, and more. postmodernjukebox.com
2-6 May
ALHAMBRA THEATRE. The Royal Shakespeare Company returns to Bradford with a fastpaced political thriller, a reimagining of Julius Caesar, directed by Atri Banerjee. Atri was listed in The Stage 25 as one to watch in 2022 and previously won Best Director at The Stage Debut Awards in 2019. His fresh interpretation of Shakespeare’s timeless story forces us all to consider how far we would go for our political principles. bradford-theatres.co.uk
Brooklyn-based artist Leonardo Drew presents newly commissioned, sitespecific work at Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP). Living and working in Brooklyn, New York, Leonardo's abstract works, made from an outpouring of chaotic elements, create installations that express immense tension and turbulence. The artist’s new work, Number 360 (2023), is a powerful reflection on the weight of collective experience and memory. ysp.org.uk
4 May
THE D-DAY DARLINGS: KING’S CORONATION
Heading to City Varieties Music Hall, The D-Day Darlings are the BRIT Certified and best-selling female group who found fame on Britain’s Got Talent. Their brand-new show, in celebration of the King’s Coronation, is a song and dance extravaganza for all generations to enjoy, ending with an explosive patriotic finale to bring the show to a glittering climax. leedsheritagetheatres.com
7 May YORK CORONATION BALL
Having previously played host to the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Ball in 1953, the Grand Assembly Rooms will now be host to an exciting celebration marking the King’s Coronation. Hosted by His Majesty’s Sheri of York, with Chief Guest, Lord-Lieutenant Chris Legard Esq. DL of Scampston Hall, the evening includes a sparkling wine reception, a wonderful Italian inspired three course meal, followed by a ra e and a fantastic 20-piece Big Band 106 to carry on the evening celebrations. tickettailor.com/events/ball/855642
8 May CORONATION CANTER
Help It’s Grim Up North Running celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III with a canter and a slice of cake at Kirkstall. With five di erent distances to choose from and a fabulous afternoon tea at the finish line, this is sure to be a memorable day. The route will take two di erent approaches, for longer distances o ering a full range of trail, woodland and tow path, and for shorter distances a more simplified out and back. itsgrimupnorthrunning.co.uk
With lighter evenings finally upon us, The Luna Cinema announces its highlyanticipated summer line-up for 2023, o ering over 130 screenings at more than 30 breathtaking locations across the country. Pioneers of the open-air cinema, The Luna Cinema has welcomed over a million visitors since opening in 2008 and o ers a perfectly scripted and fun night out for friends, couples and film lovers alike.
The Luna Cinema’s 2023 summer programme marks its 15th year as the UK’s most renowned outdoor cinema. Returning venues in Yorkshire include stunning heritage sights such as Harewood House, a jewel in the crown of England's Treasure Houses, medieval cathedral York Minster as well as Bolton Abbey. thelunacinema.com
There is no better way to celebrate the arrival of summer than enjoying a glass of Pimms or Moet on a fine day with the “thwack” of a tennis ball resounding around Berry’s very own Centre Court.
Timeless and beautifully kept, Hazlewood Castle provides the setting for this sartorial garden party where tennis legends Henri Leconte, Richard Krajicek, Younes El Aynaoui and Thomas Enqvist come together to entertain and excite guests over two beautiful days in June.
Whilst Berry’s provide the 5* hospitality and entertainment, the legends will entertain you on and o the court. The purpose-built court gets you close to the action making it the perfect event in which to entertain and network, whilst the marquee provides
the setting for a gourmet lunch, dinner and afternoon tea plus DJ and entertainment. There will be ra e prize draws each day with some fantastic prizes to be won. Now firmly set in the social calendar of Yorkshire, with 2023 being the fifth year, make sure you book your table/sponsorship in advance so not to be disappointed. berrystennis.co.uk
Billie Eilish, Sam Fender, Foals, The Killers, Imagine Dragons and Lewis Capaldi will all headline the Leeds Festival main stages this August Bank Holiday Weekend. They have also recently announced Becky Hill, Bicep, Wet Leg, Central Cee, Steve Lacy, Slowthai, Trippie Redd, Yung Lean, Loyle Carner,
Don Broco, and MUNA on the billing too. Making their Leeds debut will be BRIT award nominated Rina Sawayama, who’s had a whirlwind year following the 2022 release of chart-topping Hold The Girl, 2023’s TikTok breakout star Caity Baser, and pop singer Mimi Webb, whose debut album Amelia was released in March. Completing the line-up’s additions of pop’s most innovating voices is songwriter and BRITs Rising Star 2022 award winner Holly Humberstone, who has captured hearts (including ours) with her bright, yet vulnerable songwriting. leedsfestival.com
The countdown is now on for the 164th Great Yorkshire Show, with planning underway to celebrate the very best of farming, food and countryside.
The best of British livestock will be competing when Beef Shorthorn, Charolais and Longhorn Cattle Societies all host their national competitions at the show from Tuesday 11 July to Friday 14 July. There will also be new sheep breed classes with Badger Face Texel and Castlemilk Moorit. Elsewhere on the showground, sheepdog trials will take place once again, this time near to Gold Gate, while the Military Village will relocate near to the White Gate. The cheese show will once again include the charity auction, this year raising funds for Herriot Hospice. Last year’s raised over £5,500 for The Samaritans.
TV presenter Christine Talbot will be back with daily chat shows in the GYS Stage, followed by book signings afterwards. Adam Henson will be appearing on Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12, while Matt Baker
MBE will be a special guest on Thursday 13 and Peter Wright will be on stage on Friday 14. Main Ring performer for this year’s show will be Lorenzo, the incredible horseman who is a huge hit with visitors to the show and last appeared in 2018, performing to a packed Showground. Sporting Soprano Lizzie Jones will be singing twice a day in the Main Ring again. Charles Mills, Show Director, says:
“Already this year’s show is shaping up to be really exciting, with some of the best livestock in the country competing as well as some great entertainment from some well-known names in the farming industry. Look out for more announcements in the coming months about what’s new at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show.” greatyorkshireshow.co.uk
There are a whole host of acts to be excited about this summer at the iconic Piece Hall.
British pop giants Madness will bring their legendary live show to the historic courtyard on 16 June doing what they do
“The countdown is now on for the 164th Great Yorkshire Show”
best – uniting people for a raucous set teeming with hits from their unrivalled back catalogue. Formed in Camden, Madness have played to millions of fans over the last four decades, chalking up 15 UK Top 10 singles – including the timeless Our House, It Must Be Love, One Step Beyond, My Girl, Wings Of A Dove and Baggy Trousers – together with 10 Top 10 albums.
British reggae legends UB40 featuring Ali Campbell are also joining the sensational line up of headliners for Live at The Piece Hall 2023. Rightly regarded as one of the most important and influential British bands of the last 50 years, UB40 head to Halifax for a massive open air show on 18 June.
Triple BRIT Award winner Rag’n’Bone
Man is also heading to The Piece Hall. The Human and Life By Misadventure hit-maker will play in the historic and iconic open air courtyard on 23 June.
And that’s just the June highlights… thepiecehall.co.uk
There’s a whole host of fantastic shows on over the summer at Darlington Hippodrome. Whether you’re into live music, cuttingedge comedy, kids’ entertainment, or fancy an early panto, there’s something to do for everyone at the theatre.
If you can’t wait for Christmas panto, go along to Darlington’s half term panto, Rapunzel, starring Kerry Katona, Joanna Clifton, Dean Ga ney, and Jamie and Chuck on Wednesday 31 May.
The longest running singing group in pop history, The Drifters, are performing live on Wednesday 7 June. They’ll be bringing
all their best hits. Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party is visiting Tuesday 13-Saturday 17 June. This cutting-edge cringe comedy is a modern classic and a national treasure.
If you’re looking for a treat for the kids, Zog is the perfect show on Friday 23-Sunday 25 June. Promising to be bigger, brighter, and more roar-some than ever, you don’t want to miss it. darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk
Monopoly Events has announced that it is bringing Comic Con to Yorkshire on 3-4 June. People wanted a Comic Con in Yorkshire after becoming frustrated at having to travel long distances to other Comic Con shows held around the country. Organisers spent a long time scouring other venues before picking the YEC as the ideal location thanks to it being the largest space with potential for growth in the region.
“It will be an unforgettable experience”ABIGAIL'S PARTY WILL BE ON AT DARLINGTON HIPPODROME
Andy Kleek, CEO of Monopoly Events, says: “We are very excited to be working with the Yorkshire Event Centre who have the same passion we do about building this event. As with all our shows we have a three-year roadmap which we will be looking to extend for many years afterwards. Expect big guests, amazing set and prop builds, major attractions, cosplay, anime, traders, gaming and more.” comicconventionyorkshire.co.uk
RIPON CATHEDRAL
Ripon Cathedral hosts a wonderful and diverse calendar of events from bespoke art exhibitions, seasonal fayres, sound and light installations, talks and concerts where you can enjoy renowned musicians, choirs and live acts in the dramatic surroundings.
As well as the Spring and Christmas Fayres, the cathedral hosts a popular beer festival, which this year falls on the Bank Holiday of the coronation weekend (8 May). The event takes
place outdoors in the beautiful cathedral gardens with live music, a range of drinks and delicious BBQ food. Throughout the year, daytime to evening concerts, from cover bands to choral music, take centre stage, providing entertainment for all musical tastes against the spectacular backdrop. These events help sustain the cathedral for all to enjoy for many years to come. riponcathedral.org.uk
Discover more with Chatsworth's 2023 programme of talks, tours, workshops, and special events. From sketching, printmaking, and floristry to guided walking tours that broaden your knowledge of native flora and fauna and the history of the Chatsworth landscape, the year-round talks, tours, and workshops programme is designed to help you explore your creativity, connect with nature, and delve deeper into new or existing interests. There are activity clubs and events for young explorers too, ranging from art and gardening to helping out at the farmyard. The kids' clubs meet regularly on weekends or after school, inspiring new friendships and opportunities to explore interests in nature and wildlife. chatsworth.org/events
The annual Summer Series makes a welcome return to the heart of Leeds City Centre this July and August 2023, promising an unforgettable experience with 16 open-air gigs from world-renowned and emerging acts. Artists lined up to perform at Millennium Square include McFly, Kasabian, Blossoms, Morrissey, Bastille, The Wombats, Shed Seven, Nile Rodgers featuring CHIC and The Levellers. The eclectic programme truly has something for everyone; featuring 80s favourites with a classical twist (80s Classical), an electrifying club vs classical night (Club Classical Anthems), a 70s disco extravaganza hosted by the iconic Brutus Gold (Brutus Gold’s Love Train), performances by top names in Ska & Mod (Leeds Ska & Mod Festival) and the ultimate Popworld celebration (The Popworld Festival).
Tickets for all events are now on sale, so don’t miss out on one of the top things to do in Leeds this summer. millsqleeds.com
From the very o , Leeds born and bred actress Alexandra Mardell is an infectious character to be around. As we sit and chat about all manner of life since leaving the set of Coronation Street last year, you can’t help but be captivated by her warm, passionate and bubbly outlook on life. It’s refreshing, and it’s clear that there’s a real Yorkshire hospitality deeply engrained in her. You can take the girl out of Leeds… Last year was quite the one for Alexandra, from making the decision to step away from her role as Emma Brooker in Coronation Street, to the year culminating in her winning the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special. That festive success was rather apt, looking back. “I’ve got videos of me doing Christmas performances as a young child and forcing my family to watch me do a show,” she laughs.
“My parents always took me around to musical theatre and drama classes, so it felt like it was the only thing I ever wanted to do,” she continues. “I probably started taking it
seriously after high school, as school was very academic. Still, for me, I thought it was really important to get the best grades I could. I wanted people to know I was choosing to study to be an actor, but that I could do other things if I wanted to. I went to drama school and trained at Guildford School of Acting for three years before getting an agent and starting auditioning and making my own work.”
A true Yorkshire grit and resilience is something that Alexandra thinks is an important element of making a career out of performance. “You’ve got to really believe in yourself, but be able to take the knockbacks,” she says. “You’ve got to be able to enjoy auditioning, too, which I really do. You never know if you’re going to make it or not, it’s just up to you how much work you put in.”
What’s clear from talking to Alexandra is how much she lives and breathes every aspect of performance, and one of the most exciting elements of leaving Coronation Street behind is to be able to pursue opportunities across theatre, radio, voiceover, and TV. In fact, theatre is clearly something that holds a special place in her heart. But another
thing that holds a special place in her heart is the way in which she’s always managed to champion opportunities and the arts in the north. “I started my career on Vera with Brenda Blethyn on ITV so that was my first television role. She actually trained at the same place as me, and she’s really supportive of new graduates and upcoming actors, and championing the north,” says Alexandra. “She came to watch me in a play that my theatre company put on and she asked me to audition for Vera. Playing against Brenda was amazing as my first job, she’s so lovely and I learnt so much from her. It was my first role, I was terrified and she really looked after me. It was so nice to be in the north. At drama school, you kind of get the fear that everything is in London or that you’ll have to change your accent, but then I realised I could champion where I was from. Most of my TV work has been in the north, and I’ve loved it. The work is out there for young, budding actors in the north!”
I wonder what the highlights have been for Alexandra in her career so far. “Oh, I mean, definitely Corrie has to be a highlight! It was
After leaving Coronation Street last year, Leeds actress Alexandra Mardell has won the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special and has plenty in the pipeline, as Absolutely discovers
“You have got to believe in yourself, but be able to take the knockbacks”PHOTO: HARRY LIVINGSTONE
always something I dreamed of doing when I was younger, and I used to say to my friends that one day I’d be on it. So, when it happened I was like, see! So that was a massive dream come true,” she smiles. “I think when the storyline came out that I was part of the Macdonald family was amazing and getting to briefly work with Angela Gri n. She’s always been one of my role models, another Leeds lady, mixed race as well, I’ve always looked up to her so that was the cherry on top for me. Even now, I can still message her for advice.”
Alexandra thought life might feel quiet after the hectic schedule of Coronation Street, but she was pleased to find that 2022 was incredibly busy, with lots of voiceover work and some new TV projects. Although not Yorkshire, Alexandra’s most recent television project saw her starring in ITV’s show The Family Pile, based in Liverpool and also representing the north. Unsurprisingly,
given a brilliant cast and storyline, it was met with high acclaim, and it was a project that Alexandra loved getting her teeth stuck into. “I worked with some stunning actresses who really looked after me, and I feel really lucky to have such amazing support on jobs,” she smiles. “It was such a lovely summer and we became a little family.”
Clearly, variation is the spice of life for Alexandra, and she throws herself into every opportunity. “I can’t say I was expecting to win the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special!” she laughs. “I was terrified, but I thought I’d give it a go. I didn’t see that coming, but the opportunity to go on something like that is so lovely – I was honoured to be asked. Next, I’d love to do some theatre. At the
moment, I’m kind of in a comedy TV genre even though I didn’t think I was very good at comedy in drama school, I was more about the serious parts. I’d love to do some crime drama, but getting back in the theatre, where you can really feel everything, is something I really want to do. I love having a live audience.”
Speaking of things she loves, Alexandra is clearly passionate about showcasing her love for Yorkshire and her hometown of Leeds. She also loves how much Yorkshire nurtures the arts. “I love being from Yorkshire,” she beams. “The Leeds Playhouse is great and I love Leeds so much, there’s lots of opportunities and more going on in the north now for young actors – ITV, Emmerdale, too. With self-taping, too, you don’t have to be in London.” Besides the arts and opportunities, Alexandra simply lives and breathes everything Yorkshire has to o er. “Leeds is so fancy now, it’s stunning, and all my family and friends are still there. Oh, and the tap water is just so much better in Yorkshire,” she laughs. “We have a tradition in our family of going to log cabins in Pickering in North Yorkshire once or twice a year, so I love having that as a tradition in Yorkshire.”
So, what’s next for Alexandra? “Everything I did last year were all first series so there’s the possibilities and talks about some coming back round for second series so that’s really exciting,” she smiles. “I’m back auditioning again, and really enjoying the process.” With so much in the pipeline and such infectious enthusiasm for her craft, it’s definitely a case of watch this space for what’s coming in 2023 for Alexandra Mardell.
“I want to get back into theatre.
I love having a live audience”
LEEDSPHOTO: HARRY LIVINGSTONE
AWARD-WINNING WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER FROM SCARBOROUGH
Interview by BETHAN ANDREWS
Q How did your interest in phottography start?
A I started o as a young child very interested in wildlife. So, I was more of a young naturalist and ornithologist first before I picked up a camera to become a wildlife photographer. I picked up a camera in the late eighties, which was obviously at that point a film camera, and just started to photograph the local wildlife near me, got hooked and went from there. It was the late nineties that I got a lot more serious regarding the professional photography side of things. It was only 12 years ago that we formed the company that I’m fellow director of, Yorkshire Coast Nature, where we do lots of wildlife watching events, trips, tours and lots of wildlife photography workshops. Prior to that, I had a conservation background working for the RSPB, so it all just started to link together to form where I am today.
Q Has an early love for wildlife been helpful to you in your career?
A Yes, definitely. It was a bonus really because you get a lot of photographers who photograph wildlife, but don’t have a lot of knowledge. I’ve got that knowledge base and all that background to be able to bring into my photography, so those early years were really important.
Q What is it about the wildlife world that drew you in?
A I think it’s about getting outside and it being quiet, relaxing and mesmerising. I like to listen to the di erent sounds of nature. It’s so varied, too, from watching a local robin in your garden to tracking tigers in India or polar bears in the arctic – it all draws you in. Everyday is a school day and you’re always learning.
Q What do you love the most about being a wildlife photographer?
A It’s the connection with nature. I love taking people out and teaching them, but being out there on my own, I love sharing a quiet moment with something that’s wild.
Q You've had an amazing career, including winning many awards. What have been the highlights for you?
A I think the highlight was to get an image in Wildlife Photographer of the Year, which is basically the wildlife photography Oscars of the world! There’s about 46,000 entries and they only pick 100 every year. It was quite an early thing in my career, and I wasn’t planning or expecting it. So, when I entered one that I thought could do well, but thought it probably wouldn’t, when it did, well that was amazing!
Q You o er people the chance to learn directly from you at Sewerby Hall Gardens. What can people expect from this?
A It’s a fantastic event. The Wildlife Photographer of the Year is coming to Sewerby for the second year, so the event will be me doing an exclusive tour around the exhibition and I’ll talk through all the images and talk about di erent techniques that have been used. Then I’ll do a talk on my images and the background story of those, so that people can see how you could progress
to become an award-winning photographer. Then, we’ll head up to Bempton Cli s and do a hands-on workshop and photograph gannets and pu ns at close range and I’ll be on hand to help and teach about di erent settings.
Q You’ve lived on the Yorkshire Coast all your life – what makes the area so special to you?
A The wildlife and nature is just so
amazing. The secret to being special is that we have such an array of di erent habitats. We’ve got the rugged coastline, we’ve got the incredible seabird colony at Bempton Cli s with 400,000 seabirds, we’ve got the sweeping hills and valleys of the Wolds, the North Yorkshire forests and the North York Moors national park with moorland, hilltops and lower valleys. It’s the place to be for me in the UK!
Q What do you like to do in Yorkshire to escape and switch o ?
A The Yorkshire Dales is nice and it’s quite di erent to the North York Moors, too. I head to a few di erent nature reserves in Yorkshire I like too, like Black Top Sands down on the Humber and then over to west and south Yorkshire to a few other places as well. We’re spoiled for choice in Yorkshire, with so many variations of nature reserves. I also used to be a semiprofessional basketball player, so I run the basketball club in Scarborough and coach my son’s under-16 team in Middlesbrough. It’s totally di erent, but sometimes you need a di erent type of escape!
Q When it comes to the wildlife in Yorkshire, what do you think people don’t realise?
A I think people don’t realise how much wildlife there is in Yorkshire, and how much there is right on their doorstep. I don’t think people realise that it’s just not right far from where you live, so get out there and look for it!
Steve Race will be at Sewerby Hall Gardens on 10 May - see more at steverace.com; yorkshirecoastnature.co.uk
Ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, artist Alan Walsh talks about the influence motorsport, fashion and his Yorkshire upbringing have had on his life’s work
By REBECCA PITCAIRN
British artist Alan Walsh may now live in Monaco, surrounded by the glitz and glamour of the high-powered elite, but he remains a down-to-earth Yorkshire lad at heart. And, despite two decades spent away from his hometown of Harrogate, he retains that distinct North Yorkshire twang.
Speaking via video call from his gallery on Monte Carlo’s tree-lined Rue Grimaldi, the 40-year-old tells me he has plenty for which he must thank his Yorkshire roots.
“I’m dyslexic and one of the only subjects at school I was good at was art,” says the minimalist artist, who is famed for his colourful art deco style illustrations. “I was fortunate to have a fantastic art teacher at St John Fishers High School called Rebecca Chapman, who encouraged me. If it wasn’t for her, I don’t know what I’d be doing really.”
Work experience at Advertising Principles [now Principles Agency], in Headingley, is also to thank for the faceless, oversized pop-art figures that feature in Alan’s work. “One of the first things they asked me to do was storyboard some ideas for a TV commercial,” he explains. “As a cocky 14-yearold, I wanted to try and impress them with
my drawing skills so spent an hour on the face of the first lady and when the creative director came back, he asked me where the storyboards were. It was then that he said, ‘oh perhaps I wasn’t clear, storyboards are just outlines of people just to show the whole story’. After that, I was like ‘I’m never going to do faces again’. Unbeknown to me then, it hugely influenced my style.”
Alan joined another Yorkshire advertising agency, Vivid Creative, as a junior aged 17 and started to work his way up, but left for Sydney in 2004 with the expectation of backpacking around the world. Following an unexpected commission that set the ball rolling for an art career in Australia, which saw him create eye-catching advertising campaigns for the likes of Coca Cola and Gray Goose Vodka, he ended up staying for the next 10 years.
“At the time, I didn’t really know anyone in Australia, but I had one guy’s phone number, who ran a car showroom for MG Rover. I phoned to see if he had any jobs washing cars so I could get a bit of money while I was backpacking and the first task he gave me was to find a graphic designer to create some art for the showroom and an exhibition stand they had for the Australian International Motor Show – of course producing that myself was the perfect project for me,” explains Alan, who had his first solo exhibition at The Fox Hole in Sydney in 2010 and met and married his wife, Emily, while living in Sydney.
Serendipitous moments like this have weaved their way through Alan’s life. However, there is no doubt their outcomes have been down to Alan’s disciplined work ethic. “I would say I’m determined to the point of
obsessed. But I’ve had plenty of knocks,” he says, who at one point in his career spent nights sleeping on his gallery floor. “My wife often says to me that many people would have given up by now, but I think that often, when there’s a really dark time, around the corner, something really good happens. It’s about riding out those storms.”
The couple’s move to Monaco, in 2019, was a full circle moment for Alan, having grown up surrounded by the allure of motor racing and the fashion industry in Harrogate. “Dad worked in motor racing so from birth I was at Grand Prix tracks and Formula One was always on the TV,” says Alan, whose iconic
F1 images and Riviera characters are what he has become most well known for. “Dad worked away a lot so mum, who worked for a textile company, would drive us to whichever circuit he was at. She’d put me in the back of the car with colouring books, pens and patterns for dresses she’d bought home from work, which were just outlines of characters that I liked to colour in.
“I remember being inspired by my mum’s Vogue magazines and the bright colours of my dad’s Autosport. There was a lot of yellow; I love yellow, it makes me smile and there’s a lot of it in my work.”
While settling in Monaco has not been without its challenges (three months after signing the lease of their gallery, lockdown hit forcing it to close for six months), it’s a dream come true for Alan, who is also the artist in residence at the luxurious Martinez Hotel in Cannes, where his work can be seen on everything from the walls to restaurant menus.
And, later this month, he will be partnering with Red Eye events and live painting at the Fairmont Monte Carlo – the hotel which sits right on the famous hairpin bend – during the Monaco Grand Prix.
“My original stu was all hand screen-printed, but during lockdown I couldn’t get back to the UK to get the materials I needed so for me to create new work, I had to get back on the paintbrush and now I hand paint in acrylic, which gives me the freedom to do the live painting,” says Alan. “It’s quite funny because I learned quite early on back at that first agency in Leeds that I was never going to be a portrait artist and now people pay for portraits,” he says. “But even Sir Jackie Stewart and Prince Albert have not had their face details in. That’s my style and I’m sticking to it.”
walshgallerymonaco.com
My “Yorkshire born and bred” piece was originally created for a collection at the White Hart Hotel in Harrogate circa 2013, it was inspired by a close friend of mine and his love for shooting.
• When the Tour de France came through York in 2014, I went halves on a stall in the fan park with a friend to sell my prints. We sold out before lunchtime on the first day so I had to send my parents off down the High Street with rucksacks of cash to go and get more printed.
• You can’t beat Betty’s Tea Room in Harrogate, we always head there when we’re back and when it comes to pubs, my favourites are The Punch Bowl Inn, in Marton-cumGra on and The Ship Inn at Aldborough.
Absolutely delves into why Yorkshire’s smallest city is so special
By HOLLY PHILLIPS
On the border of North Yorkshire, not far from Harrogate, is where you will find the lovely city of Ripon. The cathedral city is especially unique for holding the status of the smallest city in Yorkshire, as well as preserving the third smallest population in the county. Delightful and refreshing, Ripon’s valuable history and extensive amount of attractions provides visitors with an unlimited selection
of activities to immerse themselves into. Varying from car shows and beer festivals to museums and theme parks, there is something for everyone.
Ripon is well-known for its history. Once held under Viking control, and by Normans not long after, Ripon holds countless traditional values that have lasted throughout the decades. One of not only Ripon’s, but the world’s, longest standing traditions is that of The Ripon Hornblower. According to the Real Yorkshire Blog, this
tradition began when Ripon was under Viking control. The practice originated when a Royal Charter was granted to the city. As the King had no access to a scroll or parchment to record the signing of the Charter, the blowing of the horn was created as an alternative. The granting of this Charter therefore ignited the blowing of the horn every single evening since. Despite disruption from the pandemic, the tradition still continues to this very day. George Pickles was the most recent long-standing hornblower, partaking in the tradition for 12 years. However, since his retirement in 2015, the duty is shared between a group of people, one of which is the first female hornblower.
After the Norman’s conquest of Ripon, restoration began and Churches were built on top of ruins, leaving the city with a gothic flair. Complementing its gothic style was the vast amount of greenery and land. There was also a lengthy tradition of sheep farming which later contributed towards Ripon’s prominent wool and cloth industry as English people were forbidden from wearing foreign cloth in the 14th century. Ripon’s focus on the production of wool and cloth then shifted to its manufacturing of spurs in the 16th century. After that, Ripon’s significance faded as the country
experienced the Civil War and the Industrial Revolution. Since, however, it has been moulded into a beautiful, historical city with many fascinating attractions. One particularly interesting fact about the city is that it was Lewis Carroll’s inspiration for his classic book, Alice in Wonderland.
At the heart of Ripon is three awardwinning museums: the Workhouse Museum, the Courthouse Museum, and the Prison and Police Museum, all of which provide a fun, immersive and educational experience for all ages.
The Workhouse Museum allows for the opportunity to endure what it was like to work in Victorian times. It gives a true glimpse into the working class world in the 19th century through visits to classrooms, the pantry, the inmate’s dining hall, cells and the Guardian's room.
The Courthouse Museum delves into the history of the accused, giving visitors the chance to read their stories and discover what happened to them upon sentencing. Amongst this, you can also experience standing in the dock and explore the Jury Room and the Justice’s Retiring Room. This all takes place in a beautiful Georgian Courthouse, which hasn’t changed since its construction.
The Police and Prison Museum provides a slightly di erent perspective, allowing
visitors to uncover the history of crime and punishment in Victorian times. Upon visiting the cells and taking part in hands-on activities, you will learn about policing in Yorkshire in Anglo Saxon times. All the museums are a great option for somewhere to take the family.
On the subject of families, Ripon is a great place for it. As well as the three amazing museums, the city is home to a marvellous theme park. Lightwater Valley contains many attractions that will entertain the children. It is famous for possessing the UK’s largest treetop adventure nets,
which include trails, tunnels and slides, all whilst being 12 metres above ground. For the younger children, it has attractions like Woodland Drivers, Dino Dig and Adventure Play. For the braver ones, it has rides such as Dragon Drop, Eagle’s Claw and Monkey Drop, as well as many more.
One of the park’s (and Ripon’s) top attractions is the Talon Falconry. Here, you will have the chance to witness how the elegant birds are trained and you will get to see them in action. You might even be able to handle one yourself! As well as its wide variety of activities, Lightwater Valley has fabulous food options like Big Fish Trading Company, The Grill Cafe and Luigi’s Pizza Restaurant.
One thing that is most appealing about Ripon is its acclaimed racecourse. Best known as being ‘Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse’, it always lives up to expectations with an unforgettable atmosphere and incredible views. It
hosts evening race days, traditional family race days and many other fun events throughout the year like Ladies’ Day.
As well as the racecourse, Ripon Cricket Club is a popular destination. It’s a friendly, all-inclusive cricket club that regularly welcomes new members. Alternatively, if you are only visiting Ripon for a day, you can pop over to the club and spend a lovely relaxed day watching the cricket. All matches and fixtures are shown on their website.
If cricket is a bit on the slow side for you, weekly rugby matches are open to the public, so head down to Mallorie Park and catch a game.
If you’re wanting to find somewhere to settle your hunger, there are a range of lovely places in Ripon to do so. A great place to grab a quick bite to eat is Wilfrid’s Cafe. It’s a highly rated cafe in Ripon and serves fabulous food that is great value for money. Alternatively, embark upon a culinary journey at the Michelin-starred Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall. This exceptional restaurant showcases locally grown and sourced ingredients, taking advantage of the herbs and vegetables grown in their very own Kitchen Garden. The restaurant uses only the best raw ingredients from hand-picked suppliers and quality meat from nearby farms, speciality cheeses from across the county and fresh seafood from the nearby Yorkshire coast. The tasting menus can be accompanied by a choice of specially curated wine pairings or selections from the extensive wine list.
If you fancy somewhere sweet after your lovely meal, G&T’s Ice Cream Parlour is a great shout. Open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am until 4.30pm, serving sandwiches, toasties, breakfast, home baked cakes and, of course, ice cream. The perfect way to end your day in Ripon.
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club has a cracking bill on 2 May, headlined by Stephen Bailey. Stephen is making noise on the comedy circuit with his trademark fun, charming and sassy style.
Blood Brothers is on at Ripon Operatics Hall on 4 May. The play starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £12.
Ripon Racecourse hosts the 25th Ripon Clubs and Classics Motor Show on 7 May as part of a Coronation special. Tickets range from £5-£25.
One of the best beer festivals in Yorkshire returns to Ripon during the coronation bank holiday weekend. It will be held at Ripon Cathedral at 11.30am until 5pm on 8 May. What combination is better than live music, beer and barbecue food?
In the mood for a ghost hunt? Ripon Workhouse Museum is hosting a paranormal investigation at 9pm on 20 May.
If you want to know more about Ripon, head over to visitripon.co.uk
“From car shows to beer festivals, via museums, there is something for all”STUDLEY GARDENS IS NEARBY
What’s on in MAY
Opened in March 2022 by Rebecca Crallan, a former cancer research scientist, the GreenHouse stocks home and garden supplies with a planetfriendly ethos. Her mission is to make it easy to make the greener choice without compromising on function or beauty. Situated on North Street, just o the marketplace in the small and charming cathedral city of Ripon, the store is a calm and welcoming space, thanks to the aroma of locally roasted co ee and the lush greenery of houseplants. There is a strong focus on local designers and makers, with a thoughtfully curated selection of homewares, household supplies, unusual gifts and a few preloved pieces of upcycled furniture thrown in. Even the refillable cleaning and haircare products are made here in Yorkshire.
11 North Street, Ripon, HG4 1JY thegreenhouseripon.com Instagram: @thegreenhouse_ripon Facebook: @thegreenhouseripon
Get a date in the diary for your visit to Ripon Races. There’s something for everyone at Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse with fantastic racing and a great atmosphere guaranteed. Whether you’re looking for a day out with the family, a relaxed evening with friends or celebrating a special occasion, find the fixture to suit you.
Kids go free to all of the fixtures and at the Family Days on Sunday 21 May, Monday 7 August and Bank Holiday Monday 28 August – there’s plenty of free activities to keep them entertained.
The biggest race day of the year features the prestigious William Hill Great St Wilfrid Handicap on Saturday 19 August, and the Go Racing in Yorkshire Festival meeting on Saturday 22 July is always a great occasion. There’s six evening meetings to choose from as well with reduced price entry and live music alongside the great action.
ripon-races.co.uk
Want to know more about Ripon?
Here are some local businesses worth investing some time and money onRIPON RACES THE GREENHOUSE
“There's something for everyone at Yorkshire's Garden Racecourse”
Ripon Interiors has been established in the city for over 22 years, showcasing the finest brands of home products in their impressive showroom. Their welcoming design team o ers unmatched expertise in transforming your living space into your dream home. When you visit the store, you'll be greeted with warmth and hospitality that makes your shopping experience a truly enjoyable one. Make your way down to Ripon Interiors on Boroughbridge Road and let their professional team guide you through creating the home you've always wanted.
Ripon Interiors, Boroughbridge Road, HG4 1QW 01765 603502. riponinteriors.co.uk
Glorious Ripon Cathedral will surprise you. This beautiful medieval church has an intriguing AngloSaxon crypt dating from 672, the oldest structure of any cathedral in England still in use today.
You will find unusual treasures of art and design at every turn, some of which inspired the writing of Alice in Wonderland. And the cathedral’s breathtaking architecture creates a unique oasis of peace in a busy world.
Everyone is welcome to come and explore inside, the doors are open every day from 8.30am to 6pm, Sundays from midday. With free entry as well as things to do and see for all ages, Ripon Cathedral is a highlight of your visit to the city.
riponcathedral.org.uk
“You will find unusual treasures of art and design at every turn”RIPON IS A THRIVING CITY
Rishworth School recently held its annual ball and the theme was ‘Cirque du Rishworth’.The school invited honoured guests, including parents, sta , governors and Old Rishworthians, to come together and experience a night at the circus. The ballroom at The Arches, Dean Clough, was transformed into a magical space with golden animal sculptures, top hats and twinkling lights.
The night began with a very warm welcome from a pair of fire breathers performing outside the entrance. Guests were then greeted by the honeyed voice of talented singer Lily-Mae Cooney (current Rishworth student) and a drinks reception. After a few witty words of welcome from the Head, Dr. Wilkins, everyone enjoyed a scrumptious meal whilst watching a thrilling performance from a very bendy aerial acrobat.
After the delicious dinner, glamorous guests mingled over a few drinks whilst taking part in a silent auction run by James Beattie of See It Now, who had curated an array of spectacular and tempting items.
The highlight of the evening was the dancefloor, where DJ Mike of Exceed Events played a selection of classic floor fillers that kept the attendees dancing throughout the night. A pair of glitzy stilt walkers dressed as ring masters even joined the dancefloor.
The Rishworth annual school ball is a much-anticipated event, and this year's Cirque theme did not disappoint. The school went all out to create a magical evening that was enjoyed by all. The spectacular performances, delicious food, and lively music made for a truly unforgettable night. It was a great success, and the plans for next year's 300th anniversary ball are already in motion.
rishworth-school.co.uk
Since its construction almost a thousand years ago, Pontefract Castle has seen some truly incredible things. Known since the 13th century as the ‘Key to the North’, the castle has been at the centre of some of English history's most pivotal events, from loyal Royalist soldiers, medieval barons and selfish kings, to unfaithful royal lovers, liquorice farmers and selfless Victorian ladies.
After William the Conqueror became King, he rewarded his loyal friends and allies by giving them land. One such friend was Ilbert de Lacy who had fought for William at the Battle of Hastings. Ilbert was given the Honour of Pontefract, a large estate in Yorkshire. It was here, on the site of an Anglo-Saxon manor, that he built Pontefract Castle in 1070.
The de Lacy family enlarged Pontefract Castle, making it one of the mightiest fortresses in England. However, when Roger de Lacy died King John confiscated the castle and made Roger’s heir, John de Lacy, pay a huge fee to release his inheritance. John de Lacy was not willing to give up the castle without a fight and he joined several other rebel barons and forced King John to seal the Magna Carta in 1215.
There’s plenty more to discover today, so Pontefract Castle is a must visit – and this month, a weekend of celebrations is set to take place to mark the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort.
Côte restaurants have launched their most creative spring menu designed by Gordon Ramsay’s former executive chef Steve Allen. The highly respected chef joined Côte last year and has focused on fresh seasonal ingredients. Steve’s new menu additions, which you can enjoy at their Harrogate and York locations, feature a collection of timeless dishes, sharing plates, sand French classics with a Côte twist. cote.co.uk
By bodegas FAUSTINO
A sparkling wine with a clean, bright, pale yellow colour and gold rim. The nose is warm and fruity, with hints of white fruit, honey, apple and floral notes. Pairs well with salted fish, seafood dishes and caviar, along with baked potatoes and mushrooms.
The nose is complex and intense, with red fruit aromas of raspberry and strawberry. The palate is elegant, crisp and fresh with well-integrated acidity and a medium fruity finish. Matches perfectly with cold meat, sausages, pork or chicken, as well as grilled meat and mushrooms, with rice and pasta.
The nose is complex and balsamic with notes of stewed fruit, sweet warm hints of oak and spicy cinnamon. The palate is elegant and structured, with good acidity and a nice long finish of ripe fruit, vanilla and roasted notes.
BODEGAS FAUSTINO
BeFaustino I is the most sold DOCa Rioja Gran Reserva in the world, with nearly 40% of wine sales in its category. Bodegas
Faustino is a family of winemakers with a long tradition spanning over 150 years bodegasfaustino.com
After a two-year post-pandemic pause, Principal York’s much celebrated afternoon tea is finally back. Created by new Head Chef Aaron Craig, it tells the mouth-watering story of York’s well renowned chocolate history. Indulge in cakes, brownies and macaroons with orange, mint, nutty, and creamy flavours, all accompanied by the “Big One” – a purple brioche crumb choux sharing bun, filled with hazelnut and caramel.
theprincipalyork.com
CEDARBARN FARM SHOP
HECK
During lockdown, fans of sausage and burger company HECK were treated to fun social media videos created by one of their youngest team members. Encouraged by the response, the HECK team has now taken Toby’s dance routines one step further, creating the UK’s first sausage soundtrack, complete with a lively music video to accompany it. The video stars Toby alongside other VIPs from the team – even Mabel the dog! heckfood.co.uk
THE IVY HARROGATE
For a dream end to the week with friends or loved ones, guests can enjoy The Ivy’s new Dream Champagne Dinner. Available every Friday from 6.30pm, diners can choose two courses for £45, and three courses for £50, inclusive of half a bottle of the finest French Champagne each. Starters include delicious Malaysian Curried Prawns, and for the main event, a delicious Chargrilled Sirloin Steak with a flambéed brandy and tru e sauce will be a highlight. theivyharrogate.com
RISE HALL
Mark the Coronation of King Charles III with a very special a ernoon tea on 7 May. Book to come to Rise Hall with friends, family, or just as a treat for two of you: delicious a ernoon tea followed by a tour of the house. dine.co.uk
The team at a Pickering farm shop is celebrating after reaching the final of a regional food and drink business award. Cedarbarn Farm Shop has been shortlisted in the Best Retailer category in the Azets Food and Drink Business Awards. The team will learn whether they have been successful at a ceremony on 27 April. cedarbarnfarmshop.co.uk
LOTTIE SHAW’S
The Yorkshire favourite has created a very special Coronation
A ernoon Tea Hamper. It includes their gingerbread crowns, large traditional fruit cake, treacle tarts, ginger parkin biscuits, and award winning Yorkshire parkin cake. lottieshaws.co.uk
THE GRAND, YORK
CASTLE HOWARD
To celebrate this momentous year in history, Castle Howard invites you to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King, with a celebration of all things quintessentially British – a day out with a ernoon tea in the Grecian Hall. castlehoward.co.uk
The Cookery School at The Grand, York has been awarded with ‘Experience of the Year’ at the 2023 Visit York Tourism Awards. Opened in March 2019 and located within one of York’s most iconic hotels, the state-of-the-art Cookery School o ers a unique cooking experience designed for novice and aspiring chefs. Marc Williams, who joined as The Cookery School Director in 2022, has been hungry to share his passion for cooking local produce. thegrandyork.co.uk
“I fell in love with the diversity and excitement of modern Spanish cuisine, and the style of dining”
recounts as we await our first tapas selection to get stuck into. “I was fortunate to secure some great openings early in my career and worked my way through the ranks at some of what were then Yorkshire’s best establishments, before becoming the first Head Chef at Harvey Nichols’ restaurant in Leeds. After a stellar stint there, I was seconded to the business’s London operations; first heading up the kitchens at Prism, before being promoted to the flagship Knightsbridge store to serve as Executive Head Chef. I returned to Yorkshire in 2005.”
That return coincided with an urge to bring something new to the county’s dining scene. “It was my first trip to Catalonia and the Basque Country,” Simon says on what inspired El Gato Negro. “I fell in love with the diversity and excitement of modern Spanish cuisine and thought this is what I really want to do. I loved the food and really liked the style of dining and the continuation of service. That really appealed to me.
Absolutely Yorkshire never needs an excuse to tuck into tapas, so we were delighted to hear about acclaimed Spanish restaurant El Gato Negro launching a new seasonal menu as it celebrates three years in Leeds. The work of Head Chef, Chris Hemsworth, the new menu harnesses the season’s finest ingredients to create a generous number of intricate dishes with a real depth of flavour. It was, therefore, an ideal time to visit and sit down with the man behind El Gato Negro, Simon Shaw.
The Chef Patron and Creative Director of El Gato Negro, Simon has had a long and distinguished career in the industry before he even thought about o ering up tapas to Yorkshire diners. “I first got into cooking at around 14 before enrolling at catering college where I learnt the key skills of the trade,” he
By MARK KEBBLE
“I’d had a flat in Rishworth since the mid 90s and, after almost 10 years in London, was ready to come home,” he continues. “I’d been looking at sites in Yorkshire and was very close to signing on a venue in a village near Wetherby, but something didn’t feel quite right, and so I decided to follow my gut and walk away. I’d not long been home when the phone rang out of the blue and I was asked if I wanted to view a little gem of a site in Ripponden. As it was no more than a ten-minute walk from my door I went there and then the rest, as they say, was history.”
And history, indeed, was made as El Gato Negro won over the hearts and minds of foodie aficionados all over. “We had an incredible ten years at that location, the first El Gato Negro, and enjoyed a lot of early publicity, appearing on the F-Word and
In 2005, El Gato Negro wowed us all with its first opening in Yorkshire. Some 18 years later we catch up with Chef Patron, Simon Shaw, to discuss its returnWARM CHOCOLATE BROWNIE SIMON SHAW
earning the praise of Jay Rayner amongst others,” Simon smiles. “It really was an incredible time and I’ll always be grateful for it. In 2015, when our lease was up, it was time, though, for us to spread our wings, with a move to King Street in Manchester. We’ve been in the city some seven years now, where we are proud to have continued to enjoy sustained success, with El Gato Negro awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in every year. It’s absolute testament to the team who work tirelessly to deliver a consistently great product and service.”
El Gato Negro Liverpool followed in August 2019, succeeded by a return to Yorkshire and opening in Leeds just three months later. “It was a move I’d always planned to make,” Simon explains, “having worked in Leeds for 12 years and got a really good foothold in the city. I had some great times there and have a lot of love for the city. We’re drawn to good buildings and were simply waiting for the right one.”
Of course, in the space of the three years that have followed, we have all had to struggle through a pandemic that ravaged hospitality across Yorkshire. “We were busy from day one and had an incredible first few months, picking up awards just weeks after opening. And then the pandemic hit,” Simon says on the Leeds restaurant.
“The team was incredible. It sounds like a cliché to say we’re like a family, but we really are and everyone found their way through it together. After the initial blow of having to temporarily close we chose to channel the time wisely, investing it
in the development of the product; we sharpened a lot of the parts of the business.”
Last year, he says, saw them get back to where they wanted to be, and looking forwards rather than backwards. As our food starts to arrive, what does Simon and the team aim to o er with their menus?
“Choice,” he says simply. “The thing I love about tapas is that it gives you variety; it caters for every dietary requirement. For me what I’m really looking to deliver however is a quality product and consistency. That ultimately is our main focus.”
And quality is something El Gato Negro achieves with aplomb. There were plenty of highlights during our lunch. The boquerones (marinaded anchovies served with extra virgin olive oil, dill and charred focaccia) were a steal at £9, and the homemade rosemary and confit garlic focaccia with North South olive oil and Pedro Ximénez balsamic vinegar was a perfect appetizer.
For meat lovers, Salchichón Ibérico with cornichons and Chorizo Ibérico bellota with baby artichokes are must-haves, and those with a passion for cheese will love the Monte Enebro goat’s cheese with fig chutney and olive torta, and La Peral blue cheese with caperberries and crystal bread.
The quality continues into the acclaimed restaurant’s fish and meat dishes with the return of Simon’s signature chargrilled octopus served with sautéed potatoes, aioli and capers, and gambas pil pil – gamba roja prawns in a chilli and garlic sauce with fresh parsley. Both feature on the menu alongside Josper-fired Scottish mussels
with fino sherry, confit onion sauce and chargrilled focaccia, and seared cod cheeks with chorizo and haricot bean stew.
Completing the list of new dishes on a sweet note and a dish that has to be tried is Hemsworth’s rum baba, a honey-scented sponge soaked in orange and Pedro Ximénez syrup and served with bee pollen and vanilla ice cream.
Full to the brim, I have just enough energy to ask Simon what’s to come from El Gato Negro. “We’ve got our ear to the ground,” he says. “If the right site comes along then further expansion is something we’ll consider. It’s good to grow, but it can be equally good to consolidate. Retaining the standards of what we do is what’s important to me. That’s what gives you longevity in business.”
elgatonegrotapas.com
Here
BERRY'S JEWELLERS
This year Messika offers a bold reinterpretation of the Maison’s iconic motif: the Move Noa diamond bangle. Available in a fully paved version for an even more distinctive design, the discreet and elegant ribbon of gold is enhanced by three sparkling diamonds in motion. Discover the Messika range at your nearest Berry’s boutique or at berrysjewellers.co.uk
by ALEXIA EVANS
Q Could you tell us about your upbringing and where your passion comes from?
A I grew up on a farm near Whitby, in the middle of the North Yorkshire Moors. Fashion gripped me from a young age and I became a regular at local charity shops, bringing bits home and remaking things on my sewing machine. My auntie got me into sewing, which led me to study fashion design at She eld Hallam university. I’ve always been creative, it’s the only thing I’ve ever been good at! For my final year project, I wanted to base it o elements of my upbringing on the farm. Farmers often have a huge connection to their clothing, something that I was drawn to. My parents had the same practical clothes that they’d worn for years, all with holes in after having protected them from all weather. I used donated clothing from home to make my first collection by fusing pieces together to make new jackets and boiler suits. Until I started upcycling, I never properly found that passion for fashion.
Q What is your personal fashion style and how do you bring this into your pieces?
A Some of my favourite items are really old hand-me-downs; my grandad’s shirt and my dad’s fleece. Clothing that tells a story will always matter more to me than the look. I love the fact that it’s come from someone I admire and that they can live on through the clothes. I work with a real range of textiles as the main aim is to prevent clothes ending up in landfill. If I can save those materials and rework them into something new, that’s where I get my job satisfaction from.
Sarah Thompson is the founder of TOM-O, a unique sustainable fashion brand based in Leeds. We find out how she got started and the passion she has for patchworking
“I don't need to be a designer who creates more, I have so much fun creating from what already exists”
SARAH THOMPSON
Q Could you talk us through the creation of the garments?
A Everything at TOM-O is made by me in my studio in Leeds. I use two or more materials in a patchwork design because I work with such a variety of products. This design method limits material waste. Sometimes I might be working with a bed sheet, other times someone might bring in a size 8 top which you can only get a small amount of fabric from.
Q Can you explain your bespoke designs?
A Customers can pick everything from the colours, styles and lengths. On the other hand, if someone has an item of clothing that they no longer wear, they can send it in and have it recycled into a new piece. This creates a more circular system with less outsourcing. I’ve had people bring in items of clothing from loved ones they’ve lost, and I rework parts of this into something else so that they’re always a part of them.
Q Why is sustainability so important for you?
A Sustainability for me grew in importance massively. I don’t need to be a designer who creates more, I have so much fun creating from what already exists. Extending the life
of garments is something I feel responsible for. I care about creating a better future for the fashion industry, to teach consumers to make more positive steps.
I’m really proud to be Yorkshire born and bred. I’ve noticed lots more sustainable workshops and refill shops for products popping up around Leeds.
Q What have been your bestsellers?
A The dungarees sell really well, they’re a really fun item, usually made with di erent denim and adding pops of colour. We also make unisex shirts which sell great in the summer for festivals.
Q How did you approach the visual look and feel of the TOM-O brand?
A As soon as the Corn Exchange came up it seemed perfect. The building has di erent colour doors, similar to TOM-O having patches of vibrancy and colour. My mum helped me set up the shop, she’s very good with DIY and even made the clothes rails out of pipes from our cow shed at home. Everything in the shop is upcycled too.
Q What do you want customers to take away from shopping at TOM-O?
A I hope that they see it as a brand where they can have an input. They can take some control in the design and also create something that’s completely unique. Instead of buying something and wishing it was slightly di erent, you can build your own or add what you want to make it your style. It also makes so much sense for everyone’s varied shape and size.
Q You also hold workshops...
A People can come in and make their own TOM-O. I o er one-to-one classes as well as group learning. Giving people sewing skills makes them more confident to stitch up a tear and keep their clothes for longer. I hope everyone can learn from TOM-O in this respect that everything can be re-used and recycled.
Q How do you like to relax?
A I love getting out of the city. Whether it’s going for a walk on the beach back home or exploring places around Leeds, I want to get to know all the countryside around me. Often I leave my phone at home, which gives me a real sense of freedom and relaxation.
Q What are you most looking forward to with TOM-O this year?
A We have some more exciting collaborations coming this year with Leeds-based ceramic brand, Sunshine Child. I’ve had a great first year with TOM-O, so I’m excited to continue taking it to new places.
tom-o.com
By CARLY GLENDINNING
CRYSTAL HAZE JEWELRY
THELMA WEST
18k Rose Gold and Brown Ceramic Asscher 8 Earrings with Diamonds, £POA thelmawest.com
LISTER HORSFALL
Fope Flex’it Essentials Medium Hoop Earrings in 18ct Yellow Gold, £2,530 listerhorsfall.co.uk
YSSO The Coral Earrings, £340 theysso.com
NAK ARMSTRONG
18k White Gold Earrings with White Diamonds, Aquamarine, Labradorite, and Andalusite, £41,200 nakarmstrong.com
REZA
18k Yellow Gold and Diamond Longue Earrings, £48,000 worldofreza.com
LISTER HORSFALL
Georg Jensen Daisy Drop Earrings in Silver and Enamel, £265 listerhorsfall.co.uk
EMILY P. WHEELER
18k Yellow Gold and Enamel Cheshire Earrings with Morganite, £38,300 emilypwheeler.com
MIPHOLOGIA
Pearl Earrings in Gold, £122 miphologiajewelry.com
Nothing says spring more than the latest collection from POM Amsterdam, bursting with bold colours and prints, and available at Olivia Grace, Wetherby
THE AISLE EDIT BY CHARLOTTE MILLS
Charlotte Mills has opened “The Aisle Edit by Charlotte Mills” conveniently located between Leeds and Manchester. The converted church (very poetic) concept houses a curated collection of female-run independent bridal brands, inviting brides to shop for their entire bridal party. We chat to the woman behind it all in this special. charlottemills.com
La Maison Couture x Tomasz Donocik's beautiful Busia Collection will raise funds for the Earthbeat Foundation. lamaisoncouture.com
Merve Bayindir's new millinery collection breaks bridal boundaries and caters for a new age of brides. All pieces are handmade. mervebayindir.com
Dried flowers remain the uber stylish choice and Shida Preserved Flowers' wedding collections are exquisitely curated to work with all colour themes and styles. These beautiful natural flowers last up to a year and will make a strong statement on the big day. shida.florist
Our recommendation for wedding fizz? Historic French producer Champagne De Saint-Gall has arrived in the UK and the Premier Cru Rosé is delicious. de-saint-gall.com
Elizabeth Scarlett's wedding pouches have either ‘bride’ or ‘bridesmaid’ embroidered onto the luxurious velvet base in beautiful script lettering. A great gift for a bride or her bridesmaids. elizabethscarlett.com
Eres' Oisive range offers a delicate and refined silhouette. Made of silk satin and Leavers lace, the pieces come in a soft, sunny colour palette: Calcaire, a rosy beige; Canisse, a fresh sand yellow; and Muscade, a chestnut brown. eresparis.com
Authentically handcrafted in Spain, these romantic, satin, striped and embroidered espadrilles have high and mid-height rustic, jute wedges that are comfortable and sure-footed for sandy beaches and lush lawns everywhere. penelopechilvers.com
Aspiga’s first bridesmaid collection features chic, pretty and understated dresses in this season’s on-trend lilac and navy. They are simple tea dresses designed to be worn beyond the wedding, perfect for all summer occasions. aspiga.com
Rich in texture, Ella Stern's Molten Sow Ring is set with aqua, pink sapphire, yellow sapphire, citrine and star set diamond sides in 9ct recycled gold. ellastern.com
Everybody knows that the coolest brides wear Terry de Havilland. The classic platform sandal comes in all shades and metallics. terrydehavilland.com
Bridal shoe designer Charlotte Mills has opened 6,000 sq ft of shopping heaven in Saddleworth. Absolutely met her to find out
Q How long has The Aisle Edit by Charlotte Mills showroom been in the making?
A The Aisle Edit came together really quickly. Once we'd bought the church in September, and some of the girls were on the way to Edinburgh for a pop-up event, chatting about what we'd do with the space and we said how lovely it would be for brides to come and be able to shop from more than one brand. The idea then developed from there. Renovations started in October, and we opened in February.
Q What inspired you to open this?
A The first time I walked through the door I knew I couldn’t leave the building as an o ce. It is just too fabulous. The idea to create a bridal concept store/department store evolved as we moved in and kept brainstorming ideas of what we could do with the space. The team are as mad as me and we are forever adding a million things to our to-do list. We thought why not make it into a bridal department store. Mad I know! It’s been so much more work than we anticipated. Everyone has worked so hard to get it over the line.
Q Was it by luck that you found a converted church to house the concept, or were you looking for something along these lines?
A The church is just across the road from my house, it came up for sale over lockdown and I always walked past it, thinking how amazing it would be as CMHQ. But I always assumed it would be too expensive. The girls encouraged me to book a viewing and chat with my accountant and we managed to make it work. As soon as I went for the first viewing I just knew it would be perfect for our head o ce.
Q Can you describe the building?
A We’ve breathed fresh life into this beautifully historic building while maintaining and enhancing its original features to create
something truly wow-worthy. Its paredback yet luxurious decor centres around wooden floors, pure white walls and plush, contemporary furnishings, with the main detail left to the building’s one-of-a-kind features, including its magical stained glass windows projecting colourful rays throughout.
Q How have you decided on the brands to stock there?
A After over eight years in the industry, we've got to know so many wonderful brands. We knew we wanted to partner with fellow female-founded independent bridal
brands, to provide a wedding shopping destination unlike anything else in the UK.
Q What elements of The Aisle Edit by Charlotte Mills do you think really makes it stand out?
A There are so many di erent elements that I think feed into making the whole experience stand out. The reception area gives an overview of what each inspiring floor holds. The Accessory Showroom spans the ground floor with independent brand displays of fabulous finishing touches for brides to shop including on-trend wedding
hair accessories and the middle floor plays host to a mezzanine Champagne Bar, serving up afternoon tea, co ee, wine and bubbles with a selfie station. Here, brides can also immerse themselves in the Bridesmaid and Mother-Of-The-Bride Boutiques, shopping in private with their leading ladies while sipping fizz and being assisted by a dedicated Aisle Edit stylist. The middle floor houses our own Charlotte Mills Showroom, sitting in the place of the former church altar, the studio features our full range of bridal footwear. Finally, the top floor of The Aisle Edit is home to a host of premium designer gowns.
Q Overall, what kind of experience do you want to o er?
A We wanted to evoke excitement from the o . Visitors will enter through the grand pink church doors, where they’ll be greeted at The Aisle Edit’s reception area and given an overview of what each inspiring floor holds. By covering all bridal party bases, we’ve solved the problem of brides needing to get their girls together for multiple shopping trips by creating one luxurious bridal destination where they can do it all while making an epic girly day of it.
We’ve no doubt The Aisle Edit will add a unique and special experience to brides’ wedding planning journeys, and its fabulous location means it’s easily accessible for those travelling from Leeds, She eld and beyond.
Q This comes o the back of recently launching in the US too...
A Although the pandemic brought on a screeching halt to the wedding industry, as with many others, brides took to the internet to search for direct-to-consumer bridalwear brands. With this, we’ve seen a surge in our US customer base crying out for our shoes and accessories, not only for their micro-weddings, but for bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and rehearsal dinners
to the wedding day itself – when it was safe to do so. With the demand, it was the natural next step for us to move into the US.
Q When you were starting out in this industry, could you have ever imagined achieving everything you have?
A I've always dreamt big, but the growth that we've seen over the past few years has been really exciting. Moving into our new head o ce and the launch of The Aisle Edit is something I'd never have imagined.
Q Looking at 2023, what are the big launches from you?
A It has already been a busy year for us! We've launched our new collection, a capsule collection of hen dresses, and slippers and launched The Aisle Edit. We're going to be focussing on expanding The Aisle Edit and expanding in the USA for Charlotte Mills.
Q Finally, for any brides-to-be starting out on this journey, what would be your top tips for them?
A My top tips would be to write down a list of the non-negotiables and things most important about the day to you both, then prioritise them. My shoe-related top tip would be to find a pair you love that are comfortable. You'll be on your feet for most of the day and it's so important to find shoes that you absolutely adore that are really comfortable.
aisleedit.com
“We wanted to evoke excitement from the o ”CHARLOTTE AT WORK
Located in the picturesque town of Settle, Falcon Manor is a romantic wedding venue that can be exclusively yours for your special day. Falcon Manor is set within private grounds providing an intimate feel to your wedding. Grand and dramatic on the outside, Falcon Manor is wonderfully so and warm on the inside. The light-filled Garden Room overlooks the spectacular terrace and gardens and can accommodate over 80 guests for your ceremony. If you’re dreaming of a summer wedding where you can enjoy your ceremony and drinks reception outdoors, then you will fall in love with the Summer Pavilion. As day becomes night, the Manor takes on a whole new ambience, projecting the warmth and magic of dusk through the bay windows of the Garden Room, and with 16 stunning bedrooms, your closest friends and family can stay the night.
falconmanor.co.uk
Berry’s Jewellers are known for the superior quality of their jewellery and attention to detail in everything from design to customer service. With particular expertise in diamonds, they stock the world’s most exclusive brands as well as a range of stunning engagement rings, wedding rings and bridal jewellery, along with gorgeous gi s for bridesmaids, the mother of the bride and the best man. They also offer a bespoke jewellery design service where their designers can refashion your existing jewellery or create a completely unique piece from scratch –book a consultation online.
56-62 Albion Street, Leeds, LS1 6AD, 0113 245 4797, berrysjewellers.co.uk
Julie Fitzmaurice is a luxurious fashion business offering a bespoke service, where made to measure outfits are designed to suit your style and shape. At Julie Fitzmaurice there is something for everyone. The easy to wear, yet glamorous coats and dresses can be made in many different fabrics and colours of your choice, and styled in any size, to fit your measurements. Whether you are Mother of the Bride or Groom or going to the races, a business meeting or going to Buckingham Palace, they will design the perfect outfit. They will ensure you are perfectly dressed and made to feel fabulous for your special day.
38 Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2RL 01423 562932, enquiries@ juliefitzmaurice.com
At Lister Horsfall they understand that it’s both an emotional and exciting time when someone is about to propose, get married or enter into a civil partnership, so they make sure couples get the best experience to help them make the moment as perfect as possible. Their skilled experts can help you find the perfect piece of jewellery for your engagement and wedding day from an extensive range of exquisite designs. They also understand that sometimes a particular vision can only be made into a reality when it is cra ed from scratch. That is why at Lister Horsfall, their team of jewellery experts are perfectly poised to help these dreams come to life through their bespoke jewellery design service.
4 Woolshops, Halifax HX1 1RU 01422 399729, listerhorsfall.co.uk
Aprenuptial agreement is a legal document signed before a marriage takes place that defines how a couple’s respective assets will be divided in the event of a divorce. You should consider a prenup if you run your own business, wish to keep property separate, if there’s a considerable imbalance of assets coming into marriage, if both partners have different nationalities, or if you wish to protect an inheritance. Those entering a second marriage may also wish to ‘ring-fence’ a part of their wealth for children from their first marriage. Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors can help you dra a prenuptial agreement.
Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors LLP, offices in York, Selby, Malton, Pickering 01904 624185, crombiewilkinson.co.uk
Whether you’re looking for a big wedding or a smaller, more intimate day, Bowcliffe Hall is the place for you. Recognised as one of Yorkshire’s most spectacular wedding venues, Bowcliffe Hall offers endless possibilities in one location, thanks to its various reception and ceremony areas. Enjoy a contemporary Yorkshire wedding across the impressive Ballroom, unique Blackburn Wing or exclusive Drivers’ Club - or make the most of the perfectly manicured grounds, with an outdoor reception and chapel ceremony. Passionate about every detail, Bowcliffe Hall also has a team of talented chefs on-hand.
bowcliffehall.co.uk
By TRISHA BULLER
Achieving the best colour relies on optimal hair condition. With this in mind always start with working out exactly when the final colour will need to be arranged, generally 10-14 days prior to the wedding day. This allows the colour time to settle and allow for any adjustment. A hair trial run is a must to be carried out prior to the big day, so start with your hair treatments and style trials as soon as eight months prior to your wedding day.
It’s much easier to adapt a suitable head dress to your hair type. For example, if your hair is fine and density is not in abundance, avoid heavy headwear that will need extra grips and fixings, as your hair may not support securing heavy additions. You need to feel confident, and comfortable. Nothing more daunting than a slipping tiara!
Brides need to consider how wearing their hair di erently for a day can either create confidence, or cause unnecessary stress and anxiety on a day which should be enjoyed and relaxed as much as possible. Work with styles that you feel will hold and remain secure, styles that make you feel a million dollars and shine like a star.
eddings are the fairytale so many people dream o , and planning your wedding hair can be the most important part of your special day.
It’s the image that stays in your heart, mind and soul forever. Sadly, so many people question the importance and cost placed on planning such an important part of your wedding day. You never see photos of cutlery or table centres placed in frames around houses, or
Wposted on social media. It is you and your partner radiating happiness. First and foremost allow your stylist time to plan your wedding hair, working from the planned wedding date, back to the present. This allows you time to access your hair condition, ensuring that it will look glossy and healthy in preparation for the colour you may wish to achieve. In my experience over the years, I have often been requested to achieve a look which doesn’t work with the chosen dress or headdress, and the bride has had to compromise on her choice. This has created unnecessary anxiety and stress, which could be easily avoided with early planning.
If your hair is heavy and coarse, consider smoothing treatments that create hydration and shine, or opt for sleeker styles, as curls may not hold if your hair is too heavy and naturally straight. However, if your hair is coarse and naturally curly then a softer curl would be perfect as this will hold for longer, and would work in harmony with your hair type. For fine hair it is possible to add hair pieces, creating instant volume and length, and is also better for holding curls than naturally fine weaker hair types.
Remember planning is key, so speak to your stylist to discuss all your hair ideas prior to choosing your wedding outfit, especially head wear.
If you are experiencing hair issues and would like to speak in more depth about any hair or scalp concerns, contact Trisha Buller at trichology@trishabuller.com for a private consultation; trishabuller.com
Opened in 1865 as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’, The Langham, London has an unrivalled location at the top of Regent Street. With a history of hosting royals and aristocrats, more than 150 years later, The Langham remains a London icon where the finest events and grandest celebrations take place.
At the hotel they have several unique private dining rooms that can host intimate weddings ranging from five guests to 26 guests. Enjoy that countryside feeling in the heart of London in their Conservatory, which boasts of an elegant yet rustic feel.
The Grand Ballroom is the perfect setting for a dinner and dance celebration of up to 200 guests. This luxurious and elegant space has been the cornerstone of The Langham since its opening and boasts hand-blown Murano
Glass chandeliers and dramatic renaissance pillars. From spring to autumn it is possible to take advantage of the Courtyard Garden in conjunction with a Grand Ballroom wedding.
As every wedding is unique, The Langham, London benefits from other luxurious facilities, such as the Chuan Spa, their renowned cocktail bar Artesian, restaurants, cooking school Sauce and a glorious pub that can all be privatised. Whether you seek an intimate candlelit dinner with family or a large a air, they would be delighted to play a part in your celebrations with your nearest and dearest.All menus have been carefully crafted in collaboration with renowned chef Michel Roux Jr.
The Langham, London's wedding menus are sure to delight any palate. Menus can be adjusted to cater for specific dietary requirements, including Kosher and Halal, either in-house or by one of their trusted catering partners.
With 380 stylishly appointed bedrooms and suites that cleverly combine Victorian charm with discreet modern amenities you can enjoy the day to the fullest, from pre-ceremony pampering to a rejuvenating night’s sleep after the big day.
To coordinate, support and guide, their wedding specialists will be on hand to help you as little or as much as you wish. From the first show-round, to the creative direction, menu tastings, right until the last guest turns in, they will ensure it’s a flawless and spectacular occasion.
For appointments and enquiries call 020 7636 1000 or email tllon.weddings@langhamhotels.com
Why The Langham, London will make your big day one to remember
Broom House is the perfect haven to get out and explore the beautiful surroundings.
With four lovely pubs and restaurants in the area and our cosy guest rooms, it's easy to see why we've been receiving great reviews.
Broom House looks forward to welcoming you!
Bridal jewellery is an essential component of any wedding day ensemble. It is the perfect way to add sparkle and glamour to the bride's overall look and can be traditional or modern, simple and delicate, or bold and dramatic, depending on your personal style and taste.
When choosing your bridal jewellery, it is not only essential to consider the style of your wedding dress and the overall theme of the wedding, but to also choose pieces that will make you feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day as well as being versatile enough to allow you to wear them time and time again.
Diamonds and pearls will always be the most popular choice for brides and are usually the go-to pieces every wedding season. For those brides that cannot decide between the two, why not mix them? They go perfectly together and look stunning with an ivory or o -white wedding gown.
Pearls have been associated with weddings for centuries and are a symbol of purity and innocence – a simple string of pearls can add an elegant touch to any wedding dress. Of course, diamonds will always be a girl’s best friend, especially on her wedding day, simply because of their glamour and sparkle and the plethora of designs and styles to choose from. One brand that has gained popularity in recent years for its stunning diamond jewellery is Messika. Founded in 2005, the brand is known for its exquisite pieces that feature unique designs and exceptional craftsmanship. Their collection
is designed to add a touch of glamour and elegance to a look, without overwhelming it.
Matching pieces from Berry’s Jewellers’ OPEIA Collection will make you shine like a star on your wedding day – a celestialinspired range of elegant diamond jewellery with a strong focus on family, depicted by the shape of the classic circle, infused with bursts of light and inspired by shooting stars.
If you are looking for something with extra sentiment or completely unique, why not let Berry’s in-house jewellers refashion a family heirloom or your existing jewellery and create a totally bespoke piece from scratch. When it comes to providing the sparkle for your wedding day and years to come, Berry’s Jewellers has it covered.
Arrange a bespoke consultation at one of their ten UK showrooms or discover their range of stunning jewellery online at berrysjewellers.co.uk
FLEUR DENTAL
Fleur Dental is a custom-built dental clinic based in Garforth. The team of specialists there offer general dental and smile makeover treatments including Invisalign, teeth whitening, facial aesthetics treatments and more. Invisalign are the modern and discreet way to straighten teeth using a series of clear and comfortable trays that are barely noticeable. They also include bonded retainers behind the teeth after Invisalign. fleurdental.co.uk / 01135 112150
Ihave been around the block when it comes to personal trainers – some have been brilliant, some not so much – but one thing’s for sure, none of them have had quite the varied background that Tommy Bayliss has.
The Yorkshireman is behind Commando Mindset, which at the time of this interview was gearing up to open a new gym space at High Corn Mill in Skipton on 1 April. Bootcamp training is nothing new, but a point of di erence here is that Tommy served for eight years with the Royal Marine Commandos, including three front line operational tours of Afghanistan. “I joined the Royal Marines pretty much straight from school and still wet behind the ears,” he recounts. “From basic training right the way through to frontline operational tours of Afghanistan, my career was full of extreme character-building experiences that moulded me and taught me invaluable life lessons you simply can’t learn in many other roles.”
Why the newest gym opening in Skipton will drive you on to get into the best shape of your lifeTOMMY BAYLISS
When Tommy talks about getting fit, I’m left in no doubt about his suitability for a personal training role. “Basic training was 32 weeks of non-stop physical punishment and tests which you had to pass to continue, most done whilst incredibly sleep deprived,” he says on his Royal Marines training. “The final test was a 30 mile yomp across the moors carrying kit. There were also arduous weeks spent mountain training in Scotland or on exercise preparing for tours away.”
Once his tour of duty came to an end, Tommy found himself working for Network Rail and Skipton Fire Service. “I struggled to find my feet for a long time on leaving,” he admits. “Network Rail is a physical, outdoor job which is an aspect I enjoy. The Fire Service filled a void I missed from the Marines, being part of quite a tight team helping others in their moment of need. Being a very busy station, it presented me with many new and testing situations, quite di erent to the Marines.”
It was during this period of time that he set up his own fitness business, Commando Mindset. “I left the Marines with a personal trainer qualification, but had never really used it properly,” Tommy says. “I saw that my style of training was missing within my area. Skipton has quite a few gyms, but none really o ering what I do. It’s really unique.”
The business began small, set up in Tommy’s garage at home. “I built quite an impressive set up from my original garage o ering one-to-one personal training. Most of this took place on the steep drive which had no shelter from the elements – but it didn’t seem to put people o ! I was surprised by how quickly messages came in for more information and asking to visit the gym. They enjoyed the training style, loved my set up and, most importantly, seemed to enjoy my approach. It wasn’t long before I was at my limit while also doing two other jobs.”
Commando Mindset became Tommy’s focus and soon expansion was calling. “When
we moved house last year the gym expanded with it. I had a bigger garage, more and better equipment and attracted even more attention,” he says. “It came to the point where I was struggling to fit everyone in and having to turn people away. So, I began actively looking for premises that would allow me to expand.”
That search finished when he decided upon High Corn Mill, which he describes as “perfect” for what he is all about. “There’s a big social reception area for pre and post workout gatherings where you can grab a co ee or protein shake. Then there’s the big main room where the gym is situated. Interestingly, quite a number of enterprises at High Corn Mill are involved with some aspect of wellness.”
So what can we expect? “I’m o ering small group training, personal training and open gym availability. It’s a mix of several di erent training styles: put together it becomes a bootcamp style circuit session. It’s very functional and designed to help you deal with everyday life situations.
“Fun is very important,” Tommy adds. “I believe it makes the workout more enjoyable and not just a chore. People look forward to their next session and leave feeling on a high. Clients work o each other more. The goal is to create the ultimate community of like-minded people wanting to better themselves in the perfect environment.”
CommandoMindsetPT.com
“IT'S A MIX OF SEVERAL DIFFERENT TRAINING STYLES TO CREATE A BOOTCAMP STYLE CIRCUIT SESSION”
Georgie Dobson had been concerned about her smile for many years – having naturally very small teeth, her teeth to-gum ratio was imbalanced and previous treatment involving composite bonding had deteriorated over time, which had left her teeth discoloured.
As an online content creator working in the world of marketing, Georgie was conscious that a lovely, aesthetically-pleasing smile was vital to her confidence and her work. Living in central Manchester and working in a busy city, she was surrounded by some of the best cosmetic dental clinics in the UK. But during her research, she felt the various smile results all looked the same – big, bright, white teeth created as part of a full smile makeover. “There was nothing unique about the smile results,” recalls Georgie. “I wanted a natural looking, long-lasting solution to enhance my smile.”
When speaking to colleagues and friends in the industry, one clinic name kept cropping up – Ribble Valley-based Renovo Dental.
Georgie recalls: “The reviews for Renovo kept popping up and eventually I decided to book a consultation. I had always been very reluctant to smile, which wasn’t great as I am constantly being photographed in the work I do.”
Georgie had feared that any cosmetic dentistry may involve significant tooth reduction, but Dr Usman Riaz of Renovo was able to reassure her from the outset: “Georgie was looking to restore her smile. When she came for her first consultation, I reassured her that far from removing any teeth, we needed to rebuild her smile by adding volume to a few selected teeth, which was a di erent concept altogether.” During her first
A first-hand case study showing why Renovo Dental has become a leading name in the cosmetic industry
consultation Georgie and Usman discussed a bespoke treatment plan that involved gum contouring, professional whitening, direct composite bonding and life-like ultra-natural porcelain veneers and, with the latest high-tech equipment, Georgie was able to see how her new smile would look before treatment even began. “Usman showed me a digital image of what my teeth could look like, which was amazing,” says Georgie, who decided to go ahead with the treatment plan.
As a member of Renovo’s multidisciplinary, in-house team, leading UK
specialist periodontologist Dr Khurrum Hussain undertook the gum contouring treatment to balance the vital ‘white-to-pink’ ratio of Georgie’s teeth and gums. “Gum contouring is a fairly simple procedure with very little discomfort or side e ects,” says Usman. “After a few weeks healing to allow the gums to restabilise, the final phase of Georgie’s restoration treatment began.”
Georgie returned to Renovo to have her teeth prepared for a combination of direct composite bonding and wafer-thin covers of ceramic that go over the teeth. The aim was to mask any imperfections such as the teeth colour, shape or even position, as Usman explains: “If designed properly, these handmade super-thin veneers can change your smile to create the desired e ect –they can balance out facial asymmetries to achieve an attractive result in each patient. They act and feel like real teeth.”
Georgie says: “The result is incredible. This has changed my face completely. I am so pleased with how the work on my teeth and the whitening has transformed my smile. My confidence has been boosted and I am so impressed and so happy.” Following her treatment a delighted Georgie, who works with the likes of the Lowry Hotel and Harvey Nichols and world-renowned designer labels, told her Instagram followers: “I feel so confident, my teeth
are amazing. You can see, they are the real deal and I am so happy! Renovo Dental have transformed my smile this year!”
The team at Renovo are equally delighted, as Usman says: “Georgie had always assumed nothing could be done to fix her teeth and enhance her smile, but her confidence in the treatment stayed on track with each visit. Our ethos at Renovo is to enhance rather than change. A person’s smile reflects their personality. A beautiful smile is a natural smile that is full of character and vitality, unique to each patient and in harmony with their face.
“We have the best technology available at Renovo Dental and we have a skilled, dynamic team who know how to get the best end result.” Renovo Dental treats patients who have been referred by their general dentist as well as self-referred patients.
RENOVO DENTAL
Pendle House, Clitheroe Road, Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000
hello@renovodental.co.uk
renovodental.co.uk
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Find out more by scanning the QR code
“I feel so confident, my teeth are amazing. You can see they are the real deal and I am so happy”DR USMAN RIAZ GEORGIE'S BEFORE & AFTER
IRÄYE
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BROWNS YORK
Luxurious textures, a delicate scent, smoothing and plumping ingredients - discover these benefits and many more, within the Black Rose Skincare collection, winner of 248 beauty awards worldwide in the Beauty Hall at Browns York. brownsyork.co.uk
BELLA
Made from nourishing ingredients including hemp extract, blackcurrant and jojoba, Bella’s Wanderlash Mascara is free from nasties. The deep-colour formula delivers buildable volume and length to give you seriously fuller lashes, £28. bellaworld.com
Although we’ve recently been experiencing a cold snap, the few milder days we have had have definitely got me thinking about spring dresses and, dare I say it, sandals. However, I tend to su er from dry skin during winter, so I’m not automatically ready to ‘get my legs out’ at the first sign of warmer weather. Being a busy toddler mum, my legs (and feet) aren’t always top priority when I’m wearing trousers and boots day-after-day. So to encourage me to keep up my winter skin routine, any products I do use have to be fast-working and results driven. Callen Olive’s Deep Nourishing and Restorative Leg & Foot Serum ticks all of these boxes and more. Developed by Maggie Trevillion, founder of multiaward winning podiatry clinic Walk This Way Podiatry, the serum is seriously luxurious. It’s made from 97% naturally derived ingredients, including avocado oil, carrot seed oil, and jojoba, and is certified by The Vegan Society. The formula is lightweight, and a quick spritz restores moisture, and protects the skin’s lipid barrier. I’ve been using it for several weeks now, but impressively, I noticed that the skin on my legs and feet felt much softer immediately. Now all I need is for spring to actually arrive, and I’ll be more than ready for sandal season.
Q How did you come to launch Lab Tonica?
A Prior to launching Lab Tonica I worked in the advertising industry. There was one particular day when I was working late on a pitch and drinking my fifth cup of chamomile tea, when I became struck by how old fashioned and dated most herbal tea packs look. In that moment it became clear to me that there was a gap in the market for a modern herbal brand aimed at a younger, more style conscious audience. With my second baby on the way, it felt like the perfect time to embark on a new direction. My journey also reginited childhood memories of the stories my mum would tell me about her maternal grandmother, Louisa. She was locally renowned in her village as a healer, and she would
“create things in the garden” to help people with their ailments. I like to think that some of her magic and passion has perhaps been passed down to me.
Q What makes herbs so powerful for wellness?
A As humans we are at our most balanced and in tune with the ebb and flow of life, when we work in unison with plants and nature. Living in urban towns and cities removes us from this natural state of being and so I am on a mission to bring back the simple healing power of plants.
Q How are your products developed?
A I wanted Lab Tonica to have the kudos and feel of a boutique perfume brand, but with a more joyful colour palette and down
to earth tone of voice. In terms of product collections, knowing what barriers people struggle with and need natural support with felt very clear to me. We have a huge endemic of stress and sleep problems in the UK, so it was vital I created a collection formulated to support this.
Q How important is sustainability to the brand?
A As a small business it is hard to be the best at everything, but we strive to continuously improve, innovate and evolve. That is why we have zero plastic in our tea packaging, and everything in the box is made from plants. Even the tea bag, inner bag and ‘glue’ that seals the tea bags –everything is compostable. labtonica.co.uk
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Fabric and leather sofas & chairs, bric chai beds & bedroomfurniture, ds room furniture, diningfurniture flooring, ning furniture, flo ing, softfurnishings and lighting.
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Take a break in the Rodgers Tea Room for morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon tea.
When it comes to creating a luxurious and sophisticated bathroom, few brands can rival Villeroy & Boch. With every meticulously crafted piece, Villeroy & Boch invites you to immerse yourself in a world of relaxation, where luxury and high quality come together in perfect harmony. riponinteriors.co.uk
Joanne Hardcastle 94 • Lighting 99 • Gardens 103
Turkish homeware emporium
Karaca has recently opened a new store and launched a special cutlery set designed with 316+ steel, one of the most valuable types of steel in the world. Combining elegance with durability, it's like a set of jewellery for your dining table, sparkling and slender silverware with a sharp mirrorfinish that enhances every meal in a variety of design options.
karaca.uk
DEIDRE DYSON
In ‘Can-Can’, Deirdre teases the eye by alternating dark and light shades – 20 altogether – and inverts the grading of each colour. Dramatic colour choices are offset by a black wool background. Deirdre says: “The colours are beautiful and showy and reminded me of the CanCan girls’ uniformity and kicking legs." deirdredyson.com
The funghi trend meets a 1970s interiors revival in houseof.'s mushroom table lamp. Developed in collaboration with Swoon as part of their sideboard collection, this is a statement piece that's perfect for styling a sideboard or above a fi replace, £249. houseof.com
The Cannage Miss Dior plates designed by Cordelia de Castellane come in a range of new colours including pink, celadon, ochre and fir green. Delicately engraved with the iconic cannage motif, these octagonal plates celebrate the House’s enduring style. dior.com
George Sowden's Shades is a collection of lamps with multiple configuration possibilities. It's all down to the modularity of the silicone components, a fabulous material for the diffusion of light, bright colours, resistant and washable. sowdenlight.com
It’s fair to say that 2023 has got o to something of a flying start for Batley-based interior designer and content creator Joanne Hardcastle. With a new podcast flying through the charts, which she set up with fellow Yorkshire Instagrammer
The Yorkshire Homestead, her successful Instagram interiors business continuing to go from strength to strength, and after an appearance on ITV’s Interior Design Masters, it looks as though this might just be her year. So, how did Joanne go from being a fulltime mum and foster carer to one of the most talked about interiors personalities on Instagram? Joanne tells me how she had a passion for interiors since she was a little girl, always rearranging her bedroom and needing to feel comfortable in her surroundings. As a previous career, Joanne worked as a teaching assistant, something she also credits with exercising her creative side. She also humbly says that setting up her Instagram account was just as much about the social side of things and having a community of people, as it was being about showcasing a hobby.
“I gave up work about eight years ago to care for my foster daughter and my own daughter,” she explains. “I needed a creative outlet so I started an Instagram account out of a boardroom that shared the interiors
By BETHAN ANDREWSof my house, but it kind of took o which I didn’t plan to happen. Brands started getting in touch with me to work with them and then I ended up getting a book deal, so I’ve been really fortunate since I started doing it seriously four years ago. I’ve always put an importance on my home and surroundings, about making them comfortable and I wanted to create something that stood out, too.”
Clearly, this love and warmth that Joanne has for family life, homemaking and caring comes across strongly in her approach to interiors –everything she designs is warm, inviting and embodies a sense of personal touch. It’s not surprising, then, that one of Joanne’s main pillars of design is to ensure that the space speaks to the owner first and foremost, and that it encapsulates fun, creativity, safety and vibrancy. “For me, designing is a feeling,” she says. “It’s got to make me excited, make my stomach jump and it’s got to feel vibrant and welcoming.”
Often described as bold and a maximalist by the press, how does Joanne herself describe her personal interiors style? “I don’t think I am a maximalist, as I’m not a pattern clasher,” she responds. “I think I am eclectic with lots of di erent styles mixed together and I like modern vintage. I like rich colours, but I’m more into dark colourful. I’ve found my stride over time and having my own home taught me my style. At the
As Joanne Hardcastle wows the nation with her creativity in Interior Design Masters, the Batley local sits down with Absolutely to discuss all things designJOANNE HARDCASTLE AT HOME
beginning, I was frightened to use colour, but it started to come alive when I got braver.”
Despite her success, it’s refreshing to hear about the ups and the downs of Joanne’s journey, the challenges and her own demons with imposter syndrome given that she’s never had any formal training in interior design. One such challenge that Joanne works hard to overturn is dealing with sexism in the industry. “Being a woman in the industry can be hard,” she says. “Going to timber yards and dealing with misogynistic men or trades who come to your house and ask about what your husband thinks. I think that’s always going to be a challenge.”
What advice would Joanne o er others wanting to experiment with the interiors in their own home? “You've got to trust your gut, be brave and do things that make your heart sing,” she says. “Don’t play it safe as you’ll never be entirely happy with it.”
Joanne tells me how she sources inspiration from wherever she goes, be it from a window dressing at a restaurant or tiles in a stately home. She encourages people to always have their eyes open,
as you never know when or where you might be inspired. “You’ve got to go and look for it on Instagram, but other times, things can take you by surprise when you’re out and about,” she says.
A big part of Joanne’s ethos is to make interiors and her career choice seem accessible to others, particularly to other women. “I’m an older lady at 50, I’ve dedicated a long part of my life to being a mum and a carer to children with special needs, and to be able to think I’ve done that now, let’s move on and do the next thing, I hope it’s showing other women that there’s still time,” she smiles. “You can still do things, there shouldn’t be barriers and you can always take a chance.”
On that note of taking a chance, I ask how Interior Design Masters came about. “Oh, it’s been so amazing,” she beams. “One of the casting producers asked me to apply and I’d not thought about it before. I was amazed and surprised when I got on, and also very scared. Leaving my family behind was daunting but I loved it, I learnt so much, and I found a new vigour for life. My approach to interiors had a chance to change through the process, too, and although it’s a competition, everyone helps each other. Ideas I had about design that I thought I didn’t like, I realised that I got them more when I saw them.”
Joanne excitedly tells me how much she loved being on TV and being immersed in design day in and day out, and she has a lot of hopes and dreams for the future now coming out of it. “I just hope that this helps to propel my career further on, but I don’t know which way it will go,” she smiles. “I hope it makes me more visible and gives me more opportunities. I love the thought of, after 20 years of being at home and being a homemaker, being successful and setting a good example to my daughters
about being brave, adventurous, following your dreams and taking chances.”
Although Joanne might not be sure on exactly what the future holds for her interiors career, one thing she is very sure on is her Yorkshire pride and championing the interiors and design world in the county. “I’m really proud of being from Yorkshire, I think it’s a beautiful place with so much heritage and history here, so I’m proud to represent it,” she says. “You’ve got everything here, from beautiful countryside to amazing stately homes and history, and amazing cities such as Leeds. Leeds has everything you need in such a compact way, it’s got the architecture, all the shops, the theatre...”
Joanne loves to source inspiration from her local surroundings, too. “I’m from Batley and I’m proud of it,” she states. “It’s such a gritty northern town and it has the textile industry, so I take inspiration from the history around the area and I try and buy things local from places such as Redbrick Mill and art from the Sculpture Park. I love going to Castle Howard for inspiration at Christmas. I love going to the North Home in Leeds, I adore that place. I love antique places and car boot sales, too. I’ve always got my eyes open.”
So, what’s next? “I’m going antique shopping in France in April, which is exciting,” she smiles. “I’m finishing o our big renovation of our basement at the moment, so I’ve got lots of content to create with brands around this, too. We’ve got sponsors lined up for the podcast so I’m looking forward to recording it and taking that further as well. Any other opportunity that comes along, bring it on. I’m saying yes and looking for my next big adventure!”
Follow Joanne @hardcastletowers
Avital part of kitchen design, lighting is bespoke for every homeowner and will vary depending on how the space is used, its size and the design style. From downlights and spotlights to pendants and sconces, layered lighting is essential to create a functional and atmospheric kitchen. Your lighting plans need to be decided at the start of the design process to ensure each area of the kitchen is functional. Start by finalising the position of your units and appliances before the first fix takes place, then consider how much natural light is available. The darker corners of your kitchen may need more illumination for example, so whether it’s task, ambient or accent lighting, decide your layout and then choose what lighting works best in each zone.
By ALEX MAINIn addition, as kitchens are often the heart of the home and can serve as multifunctional spaces – from dining and entertaining to home working –it’s important to ensure your lighting scheme can support these di erent areas, independently of each other. This means planning your switches and sockets in great detail, along with your lighting.
Absolutely Yorkshire looks to The Main Company in Green Hammerton for advice on how to illuminate your kitchen design
Arguably the most important part of your lighting plan, task lighting highlights areas of the kitchen where you need the most intense light for everyday tasks, such as food preparation, cooking or washing up. This style of lighting is extremely versatile and comes in a variety of designs to suit your style of kitchen.
Under-cabinet lighting is essential, especially for darker corners of the kitchen with little natural light, so incorporate spotlights, strip lights or even a small table lamp to avoid eyestrain. Alternatively, a kitchen island is a popular area for day-to-day jobs so opt for a large pendant light, or multiple lights, to illuminate the worktop. Whichever lighting you choose, always ensure they are positioned correctly so you aren’t standing in your shadow as this can be counterproductive.
Providing overall illumination for the kitchen, ambient lighting creates uniform lighting throughout. It can be easy to overdo it and add too many lights, so aim to keep it soft with the ability to dim the lights so they can be easily adapted for day and night. From ceiling-mounted pendants and spotlights
to floor lamps and table lamps, ambient lighting comes in many forms and will depend on the size of your kitchen and how you like to use the space.
Once your functional and practical lighting has been established, take your kitchen design one step further and introduce accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for yourself and your guests. Accent lighting is an opportunity to be creative and draw attention to interesting features in your kitchen, so whether it’s a wall light positioned above a statement armchair or a floor lamp highlighting a piece of artwork, finalising your lighting plan with key features like this will instantly elevate your kitchen aesthetic.
Alex Main is the Director of The Main Company. For further information visit maincompany.com
“Arguably the most important part of your design is task lighting”
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The Yorkshire School of Garden Design announce their next steps in creating future horticulturists
The Yorkshire School of Garden Design is launching a Diploma in Planting Design, o ering students the opportunity to learn about the craft and science of designing with plants for all four seasons.
The new Diploma was launched at the school’s Spring Open Day on Saturday 11 March, with the event o ering the ideal opportunity for those with a passion for plants to explore the route to a career in garden design.
The Diploma in Planting Design is a year-long part-time course, which will be delivered by leading experts who all have successful careers in the fields of horticulture and garden design.
The Yorkshire School of Garden Design, which was launched less than a year ago by eminent designer Alistair Baldwin, who has led a practice in North Yorkshire for 30 years, specialises in teaching professionals of the future the art of garden design.
Based at the school’s studio in the Courtyard building at the iconic Grade I listed Harewood House, the course will cover topics ranging from plant taxonomy, through the history of horticulture in design, to the art and science of designing plants in a wide range of settings.
“Our new diploma is the perfect opportunity for budding designers, amateur gardeners, professionals and all those passionate about the fundamentals of planting design,” says Alistair. “The course will provide a careful blend of creativity, design principles, botany and taxonomy, the sociability of plants in sustainable communities, and insights into the work of the world’s leading practitioners in the world of planting design.
“Our proximity to many of Yorkshire’s finest gardens, landscapes and plant collections, not to mention the glorious gardens at Harewood, will also provide unrivalled opportunities to expand the learning process,” he continues.
“Throughout the 12 months, our students will be encouraged to explore and gain first hand insight from our surroundings
in the company of experts, supplemented by trips out to first class regional gardens and a study tour in the south of England.”
The new course will run alongside the extremely popular Diploma in Garden Design, for which the school has been celebrated, which was created to equip students with a multi-faceted knowledge of design principles, through a carefully designed blend of teaching, learning and personal development. The Spring Open Day gave prospective students the chance to delve into the world of professional garden design and
learn more about the Yorkshire School of Garden Design Diplomas and suite of short courses. In addition, guests had the opportunity to explore the grounds of Harewood House, free of charge. Throughout the day, guests were led through a series of illustrated talks from the school’s core teaching team, including Alistair, principal tutor Liz Rawlinson and tutors Ben Preston and Pandora Ryan. Each highlighted their areas of expertise, interests and passion for garden design, and gave guests the chance to ask any questions.
Following a short intermission for lunch and mingling, guests were then guided through Harewood House’s stunning Italianate terrace and Himalayan Garden by the estate’s head gardener, Trevor Nicholson, accompanied by Alistair and Liz.
“We were very excited to welcome guests to the Open Day,” says Alistair. “For those with a passion for garden design, it was the perfect opportunity to pick the brains of some of our industry’s brightest sparks, and to find out more about Harewood House and the school itself.
“We are extremely lucky to call Harewood House our home and those who joined us on the day had the extra special opportunity to enjoy an exclusive guided tour from the extremely knowledgeable Trevor Nicholson,” he adds.
For further information on the Yorkshire School of Garden Design, the Diploma in Planting Design and the Open Day, visit ysgd.co.uk
Nothing feels like curling up on the sofa after a busy day – and it’s Sofology’s mission to help you find a sofa you love. Sofology pride themselves on o ering new and exciting madeto-order designs, but also giving every one of their sofas a 20 year structural guarantee.
With their best price guaranteed, Sofology doesn't do sales – instead they o er the same attractive prices every day, so you can take your time rather than rushing into a decision. Sofa specialists, they o er a personal, boutique service and style-led products in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours and comfort levels, helping you to find the right fit for your home.
Comfort and unique design are at the heart of all of Sofology’s products, with timeless and contemporary sofa ranges that can suit any style of home. Designs created in partnership with architect and TV presenter George Clarke are particularly exciting collaborations. Sofology sofas are exclusively designed, expertly handcrafted and, paired with handy tools like a free swatch service and their SofaSizer tool, they’ve made it easier than ever to find the right sofa for your home.
Sofology are proud of their commitment to sustainability. Initiatives like PlanTree, their partnership with the Woodland Trust, means they’ve planted over 350,000 trees since 2019, and their evergrowing range of sustainable sofas are beautiful, cosy and kinder to the planet. This sustainable sofa range is designed to have a smaller environmental footprint without compromising on style or comfort. From using recycled plastic bottle yarns to innovative,
fully recyclable staple-free ranges like their Gaia sofa, Sofology are leading the way with this collection of more mindfully made sofas.
Sofology, The Edit is their new store in Red Brick Mill, Batley, o ering a curated collection of sofas in colours and configurations you won’t find in other stores. With space for workshops and events, it’s an inspirational destination for those who love all things home interiors. Style-driven home creators looking to realise their interior dreams will find a personal shopping experience in a relaxed but inspiring environment. Grab a co ee and chat inspiration with expert Sofologists, on hand to o er you advice. Alternatively, visit their Leeds store at Junction 27 retail park or their York store on Clifton Moor Retail Park, where their Sofologists can show you a wide selection of ranges to help you find your perfect sofa match.
sofology.co.uk
“Comfort and unique design are at the heart of all of Sofology's products”
How do you choose artwork for your home?
Why not start with the ‘UK’s Most Popular Published Artist*’. Lucy Pittaway is a multi-award winning artist with six beautiful galleries and an online store serving customers around the world.
When it comes to levelling up your interiors with bespoke artwork, Lucy’s advice is to start with choosing pieces that speak to you. “You should feel a connection with the art on your walls,” she says. Once you’ve chosen a few pieces you like, look at the colour scheme of the room and choose pieces that complement it. Then use the tonal palette and elements from within the painting as a starting point for visualising the overall look and feel, and what will bring harmony to the room.
“It’s always such a thrill to see art where it belongs – in a home,” Lucy says. Include artwork in a variety of mediums to add depth to the home; combine atmospheric paintings
with something vibrant and fun. Utilise dead spaces such as staircases, landings or hallways to create maximum impact and choose subjects that suit the space. A cute animal works well in a child’s nursery or opt for something bold in a home o ce. Lucy’s extensive collections include a range of subjects from stunning outdoor landscapes and vistas to quirky animals and cycling.
Lucy spent her formative years in the North East; however after moving to Richmond in 2007, Lucy fell in love with Yorkshire. Her love for the Lake District also started at a young age and is one of her favourite places. From regular holidays as a child, she now visits with her own family. It is these experiences, life events and memories of those closest to her that inspire her work as she draws on the themes of family, friendship, hopes and dreams; capturing the magic of everyday life. Lucy uses soft pastels on board to create bright and uplifting artwork, each one with a real-life story behind it.
With collections to suit all tastes and a range of size and frame options, Lucy o ers stunning original works of art, Giclee prints and striking canvases as well as ceramics, textiles, and stationery, making beautiful additions to any home. “I hope my work inspires you to see the same beauty that I do and that it brings a smile to all those who view it,” Lucy adds.
Lucy’s full body of work can be viewed online at lucypittaway.co.uk
(*Awarded by the Fine Art Trade Guide since 2018)
Adding bespoke artwork adds a touch of character and can transform your house into a home
“It is always a thrill to see art where it belongs: in a home”LUCY PITTAWAY SUNRISE STROLL BY THE SEA BY LUCY PITTAWAY LUCY'S WORK IN SITU
By PENDLE HARTE
The very first day of school can often feel a little bit daunting for both parents and their little ones, but bestselling author and social media superstar, Daisy Upton, is on hand to help with Starting School, her first book written for children. With this gentle, funny guide to taking the big step to big school, Daisy helps introduce key ideas that reflect modern school life for both children and parents – from getting a uniform through to phonics. Read more over the page.
DAISY UPTON
The author of new book Starting School
o ers her top tips on how to help your child’s transition from home to classroom
By DAISY UPTON
The cliché is true: one minute you’re on high alert to catch milky burps, then you blink and you’ve got a four-year-old who is trying on a school jumper. As an ex-teaching assistant and mum of two, I have been on both sides of the school gates. But even preparing my little ones for starting school felt quite daunting and like a big deal, because it is – for us and them!
I’ve written about the things we’d done to prepare – and, in all honesty, it probably didn’t include much of what you might expect. Teachers expect children to start school not knowing anything at all, and will teach letters and counting right from the beginning. Instead the skills they need are quite basic, and listed below along with some of my tips to help develop them.
For shoes, cut a sticker in half and pop one half inside each of their school shoes to help them match up left and right. Let them regularly have a go at doing their coat themselves, try not to zip it up for them. If their little
fingers are finding it tricky, play with play dough at home to build hand strength.
In the months leading up to your child starting school, I recommend having regular fiveminute chats with them about it. During one of those chats explain that in school they will need to ask a grown-up to use the toilet. They’ll have to remember to wash their hands on their own too. We sing ‘Wash wash wash your hands, scrub them nice and clean, in and out and round and round, make those handies gleam!’ to the tune of Row Row Row Your Boat.
This is quite a hard skill to teach. However, in any of the games we play whenever my little one’s get frustrated at not being able to do something, I always calmly remind them that they can ask for help and often mention to them that at school the adults will do the same. In my Starting School book there are example conversations to show the children what asking for help looks like and why it is always OK.
They don’t need to be able to write it although it’s obviously wonderful if they can, but being able to spot the letters in their name is helpful. There are games for this on my website fiveminutemum.com. A nice way to start is by playing ordering games, whereby you mix up the letter order of their name and see if they can put it right again.
It is totally natural for children to feel anxious or daunted about starting school. Here’s some ways to help.
HEARTS: Draw a small heart on the palm of your child’s wrist, then draw a matching one on your own. Explain that, any time your child feels worried, they can press the special heart on their hand and it will send a cuddle to you –and you will send one back! Practise doing this while you’re sitting together, then remember to draw a heart on their wrist the first day.
CALM CHATS: Every few days, take five minutes to have a quiet moment with your child. Remove any distractions, and just have a little chat about school. Mention their favourite things, and ask them how they feel about school. Tell them what you enjoyed most when you went to school.
PRACTISE THE TRIP TO SCHOOL: Practise the walk or drive there together before school begins. If you walk, point out the things you see so that they start to feel familiar. Take a little treat for the journey home again, so it feels like a positive experience.
In my Starting School book there is a page to help show the children how to make friends. It’s a skill we often think children intuitively have, but sometimes they need a little extra support. Talk to them about how to ask someone’s name and how often knowing that is a great first step to getting to know someone. This year is called RECEPTION for a reason. It’s a welcome year. It’s a ‘let’s get settled into this new way of life’ year. It’s really just the beginning of the next big adventure.
Daisy Upton’s new book Starting School is published by Ladybird Books on 22 June and you can preorder at penguin.co.uk/books/454031/ five-minute-mum-starting-schoolby-upton-daisy/9780241621325
“It's really just the beginning of the next big adventure”
akefield Girls' High School (WGHS) has announced the launch of a free event on 23 June that will empower girls and show them that they can be a force across all industries. The #empowHER conference is for girls aged 10 and will have a range of powerful women speakers from across the world of business.
#empowHER is the brainchild of WGHS and the speakers are some of their
Wbest and brightest alumnae. The event is chaired by WGHS old girl and head of marketing for Amazon and Prime Video, Lizz Wainwright, and the speakers are leading lights across a range of industries:
Sophie Browning from Nestle, whose workshop, Magic Mirror, focuses on how girls can recognise their strengths and utilise them in later life.
Faith Ridler, who works for Sky News, will host a workshop centring on how girls can reimagine their stories and make change happen.
Becky Baker, founder of dog friendly app K9 Nation, is running a workshop on the importance of risk and how stepping out of your comfort zone takes strength and bravery.
Rebecca Ward is a sustainability practitioner at Radley Yedder. She works to advise and support multinational organisations to implement and develop their sustainability strategy and communications. Her workshop is designed as a mini COP Climate Conference to help girls to develop their skills in collaboration and influential communication.
Kanika Kapur, a medical advisor with pharmaceutical business Sanofi, will talk about how dreaming big is essential, but dreams themselves will only get you so far and hard work will allow you to fulfil those dreams.
Head of WGHS, Heidi-Jayne Boyes, has been the driving force behind the event. As part of her role at the school she has long been passionate about the empowerment of her young female pupils. She says: “Girls need opportunities to be courageous and resilient, to grow in
“Girls need opportunities to be courageous and resilient”
confidence and experience new things. How these elements work together in their boldest way, with academic learning, is what matters most and the key to success for girls, now and for the future.
“This is why we wanted to create the #empowHER event to give girls the opportunity to learn new skills and to listen to successful women across the world of business. We want every child to be intellectually and socially confident, workplace and life-ready with a global outlook and concern for others. We wanted to develop new ways to introduce learning with girls’ needs and preferences at the fore and the #empowHER conference allows us to achieve that goal.”
Wakefield Girls’ High School is a high achieving, world class accredited school with a defining ethos which has prevailed for 150 years: that there are no limitations on what girls can achieve. Their shared ethos is to ensure that each student achieves her full potential. Their environment is especially designed for girls, o ering a unique academic and enrichment curriculum, personal teaching, exceptional pastoral care and values to happily bring out the best in each and every student. They believe that when girls are educated separately, it changes
everything. Research studies also show that girls develop di erently from their male peers and become more empowered and achieve more at all-girl schools.
Over the years, their secure school campus has grown organically with an eclectic mix of historic buildings, purpose-built facilities and green open space, to create the welcoming community you see today.
They have specialist areas for 25 academic departments with full IT facilities or customised hands-on areas for more practical subjects. Art studios and workshops are housed in Hepworth, with music created and played in their Junior Music Room and Willows, with its eight individual music rooms, recording studio and classrooms. Also sharing this space is Food & Nutrition with two fully operational kitchens.
The Science Block houses six labs, managed by support technicians, while Design & Technology is ably
equipped with two state of the art ‘Maker Spaces’ dedicated to collaboration, creativity, design, experimentation, build and invention. Games take place in their indoor gym, sports pavilion, sports fields, netball and tennis courts, with an on-campus fitness suite. They also share astroturf pitches and an athletic track with brother school, QEGS.
Sign your daughter up for a free place at #empowHER at wakefieldgirls.org.uk/empowher
“We want every girl to feel strong and confident ”
This month, sta and pupils at a Dewsbury alternative provision, Ethos College, have been celebrating their ‘Outstanding’ rating under the new Ofsted education inspection framework.
Ethos College was praised by Ofsted inspectors for creating an ‘ambitious curriculum’ and facilitating an ‘inclusive environment’ for all pupils.
Ethos supports pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), other medical needs and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The report outlined how ‘empowered’ pupils felt and noted the ‘dedicated sta who want to see every pupil flourish’.
This is a monumental achievement for the school under the new Ofsted framework as a report revealed
that only 17% of 370 “outstanding” schools kept their grade when they had a full reinspection in 2021-22. In addition, Ethos College joins a small number of alternative provisions that hold this prestigious title and is the only alternative provision in Kirklees to do so.
The inspection highlighted the personal development of pupils as a ‘significant strength’ of the school. The curriculum is based on a well-designed foundation of personal, social, health and economic standards. It o ers the freedom for pupils to develop their talents and interests through an array of sports and music tuition.
The Dewsbury-based school boasts a robust safeguarding policy in place – to help keep children and young people safe by providing a safe environment for children and young people to learn and develop in the school setting. Furthermore, the report also
mentioned the school’s safeguarding arrangements as ‘e ective’ and noted that sta are equipped with ‘extensive safeguarding’ knowledge.
The school, part of Ethos Academy Trust, has been supporting the need for specialist provision in the area and o ering opportunities for children with social, emotional and mental health needs and other medical needs to flourish academically and personally. Additionally, the inspectors described how the school’s leaders received strong support from the multi-academy trust.
Reflecting on this historic landmark and how the school is making a positive impact in the lives of children with special educational needs and disabilities, Headteacher of Ethos College, Rebecca Smith, says: “We are so pleased with the outstanding results of the Ofsted report. It is a culmination of hard work and dedication of the entire team at Ethos College. Our pupils come from various backgrounds and mostly require specialist support to meet their needs. Our bespoke and tailored curriculum has been curated to meet the requirements of each pupil and aims to provide them with highly e ective education and support. Moreover, we have focused our priority on nurturing an inclusive learning community for our teachers and pupils, which has enabled us to achieve this outstanding outcome.”
Find out more at eat.uk.com
‘Outstanding’ Dewsbury school, Ethos College, has been praised for an ‘ambitious and inclusive curriculum’
“Ethos College was praised for creating an ambitious curriculum”
THE CRESCENT £950,000
This is a striking six-bedroom period home, dating from 1852 with red-brick elevations, sash windows and stone pillared door and window surrounds, o ering a wealth of elegant accommodation arranged over four spacious floors totalling over 4,300 sq. ft. The current owners have made significant improvements during recent years.
WHERE
Flockton, a semi-rural area equidistant between Huddersfield and Wakefield.
WHAT
A property of approximately 9,500 sq. ft with four acres of land, which has undergone an expansive redevelopment program of extension and renovation since purchased in 2020. The property boasts a car showroom, swimming pool, cinema room, Crestron home automation system,
and a magnificent kitchen designed by KC design. The property also has a separate annexe with a fitted kitchen, lounge/ dining room, spacious bedroom with fitted furniture, and its own en-suite facilities.
The property is accessed via a secure electric gate controlled by the Crestron home automation system, which has ample parking to the side, rear, and front elevation of the property, including the car showroom. Upon entering the property through the main door, there is ample shoe and coat storage, alarm keypad, and a Porcelanosa tiled hallway with staircase rising to the first floor. The kitchen/dining room has been bespoke designed by KC design with a 4-metre kitchen island, integrated Miele appliances, and LED lighting. There are also ceiling-mounted speakers and a snug to the rear elevation of the property with triple glazed door to
the terrace, Sound bar, and Sub-woofer. Access to the spa/swimming pool is via the spa link corridor with LED lighting and an impressive Marine Aquarium. The main lounge has a bespoke fitted unit housing the Quad arm remote wallmounted TV, Lutron controlled blinds, integrated speaker system, LED lighting, and Porcelanosa tiled flooring. Above the car showroom is the cinema bar and cinema room. From the first floor landing, there is a further stucco polished wall and alarm keypad plus a further Crestron control panel. From the first floor, there are four generous double bedrooms with their own en-suite facilities. From the second floor, the master bedroom suite is an impressive addition to the original property and has bespoke fitted furniture with soft close and open, bi-fold balcony doors, ceiling-mounted speakers, remote ceiling-mounted LED television, LED lighting, climate control, and a further wall-mounted television.
Externally to the rear elevation of the property stretches approximately four acres of lawned garden with various paved terraces, gravel areas for parking and a waterfall water feature outside the swimming pool area. The monitored alarm system includes 16 CCTV cameras with external day/night vandal-resistant dome cameras. All cameras feed into the Crestron home automation systems so can be viewed internally via a control panel or remotely. Installed is also a perimeter security system with 12 sensor early warning.
£2,500,000
SELLING AGENT
Fine & Country Wakefield , 62-64 Northgate, Wakefield, WF1 3AP 01924 234 881
wakefield@fineandcountry.com
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Otley has become the first town in the UK to receive a perfect recommendation score, a result that highlights the powerful appeal of the historic West Yorkshire market town to residents and visitors of all ages.
The town, which bridges cosmopolitan Leeds and the Yorkshire Dales, recorded the 100% score in a recent independent survey in which people were asked: “would you recommend a visit to Otley to your family and friends?” Of the 651 people who took part in the face-to-face interviews, all of them said they would recommend a visit.
The survey was conducted over select dates in 2022 and in di erent locations across the town by People & Places Insight, a research company with more than 10 years’ experience in benchmarking small and medium towns across the country. In that decade-long history, the company has undertaken surveys across more than 350 similar size locations, and Otley is the first in its history to record the perfect 100% score.
Other survey results highlighted Otley’s broad-based appeal to both young and old. The survey highlighted two main demographics that visit the town: a more mature audience during the week with young urban professionals, many with families, more likely to visit over the course of the weekend. The 100% recommendation rate held not only across both groups in the main survey, but also across a further 96 people interviewed separately during the annual Victorian Fayre that takes place every December and which attracts more than 30,000 people to the town.
Those surveyed highlighted many reasons to visit Otley, including convenience shopping at the town’s independent shops (26%), sightseeing (19%), meeting friends and family (13%) markets (12%) and walking/ cycling (6%), while the town centre,
Otley Chevin Forest and the riverside/ Wharfemeadows Park were the three locations most visited by those surveyed. Chair of Otley Town Council’s Trade and Tourism Committee, Paul Carter, says: “This is an incredible result for Otley and testament to the town’s emergence as a destination that is popular with both residents and visitors and across all demographics, young and old. We look forward to continuing to build on the results of the wider accompanying survey and further improving Otley’s reputation as a place to live and a place to do business.”
Chair of Otley BID, Katie Burnett, adds: “We’ve long been proud of Otley’s growing reputation as a town that appeals to a wide demographic of people, but to receive a perfect recommendation score is an incredible result and testament to the hard work of businesses and residents who pull together to highlight all that is good in Otley.”
How the West Yorkshire market town has become the first town in the country to achieve a ‘perfect’ recommendation score
why everyone is talking about…
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