ELLA MAISY PURVIS
On her new TV detective show set in York
NORTH YORK
/ MOORS
• THE PLOUGH AT WOMBLETON
one to remember for the National Park mental well-being and more
Dining out at the historic location Top advice on fitness,
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MARK KEBBLE
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PAWEL KUBA
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Start the new year by finding a new inner you, says Lisa Byrne
Whatever time and money we invest in our physical and mental health, we rarely seem to tap into our spiritual selves. Many of us appear to sleepwalk through life, focusing on what the next goal is. Distractions are everywhere and life is instantaneous –whether it’s ordering a food delivery, losing weight by taking an injection or venting our fury across social media – everything happens in the immediate present. With the only thing missing being our actual presence.
But when you face life changing situations which you cannot control such as a critical illness or bereavement, you have to wake up and evaluate what really matters in life – and it certainly isn’t vacuous scrolling or dropping a few pounds.
As part of my quest for a more spiritual and ‘living in the now’ existence I don’t go near my phone for at least 30 minutes after waking up, this precious time is spent meditating while the kettle boils and watching the dogs prance around the garden. I try
(and mostly fail) to be more in the moment throughout the day – with the highlight of my week attending Cloud Nine Frequency Alignment sessions on a Friday night hosted by Yorkshire’s wellness guru Emel Du . It’s di cult to explain what happens during these meetings, but it definitely feels that those present tune into their spiritual selves and I always leave floating on air as beautiful Emel evokes such angelic vibes (melqizedeck.com). Medical evidence shows that we store distressing experiences within our bodies. To help release this York-based healer Louise Richardson practices TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises). Despite seeming quite simple, these various practices help calm the nervous system and release stressful memories and events. TRE aims to discharge tension and release chronic pain patterns, while when dealing with trauma Louise helps reorganise the di erentiated body parts that have moved from harmony to inflexibility. The results are truly miraculous (lounmrose@yahoo.co.uk) For massage therapy, Esalen practitioner Chrissie Thomas o ers one of the most therapeutic and healing massages that I’ve ever experienced. Any worries evaporate as Chrissie expertly uses beautiful massage oils to sweep away aches and pains. After years of studying the mind/body connection, she is an expert on where to increase pressure and release stress (bodyandmindharmony.com). If you’ve managed to read this column without glancing at your phone or being distracted by the commotion of modern living, then you’re well on the way to living in a more authentic world. Remember, true life is what you feel through your senses, not what you see on a metal screen
My highlights for January…
Escaping to famed A-list Edinburgh celebspot Prestonfi eld to beat the January blues.
Slathering on the miraculous Guinot Masque Bioxygene mask. Refusing to travel without a selection of stunning travel candles by Illuminatecandle.com
Celia B's new collection features sequins, feathers, bright colours and luxe fabrics. celiab.com
Acqua di Parma's latest collection is a polysensorial journey through India Mahdavi’s interpretation of Italian architecture’s classical codes with a twist of her characteristic wit and colour. And it smells great too. acquadiparma.com
At Amelie's Follies you'll fi nd a selection of stylish sparkly lingerie for gi ing or keeping. ameliesfollies.co.uk
Cartier’s Clash [Un] limited timepiece is a sort of hybrid model that combines the best of the Maison’s horological expertise with its spectacular jewellery design. berrysjewellers.co.uk
This entrancing and elaborately cra ed design from Berry’s Jewellers is a showstopping creation for those with a preference for unique and colourful jewellery designs. berrysjewellers.co.uk
Anthropologie has teamed up with The Metropolitan Museum of Art, unveiling a limited-edition homeware collection inspired by the Gilded Age of America to bring a touch of opulence into contemporary living spaces. anthropologie.com
This gold leaf-effect star table lamp is cra ed from beautiful fabric designed to look purposely vintage-style and distressed. It adds a fabulous pop of shine and personality, £65. rockettstgeorge.co.uk
The Chanel Makeup Creation Studio has captured the wonders of winter and distilled them into shades of makeup. Valentina Li has developed a collection of brilliant shades that could warm up even the most frosty of nights, infusing every look with a hint of magic. chanel.com
Inspired by antique coin purses from the Victorian era, Vivienne Westwood's silk-blend Granny Frame purse features a classic metal kiss-lock frame and a refi ned top handle, £280. viviennewestwood.com
Alaia's studded ballet fl ats in lamb's leather have a cute round-toed shape and an adjustable buckle fastening, £920. selfridges.com
UNTIL 16 MARCH, HENRY MOORE INSTITUTE
The Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will host The Traumatic Surreal, the first exhibition to explore the radical use and development of Surrealist sculptural traditions by postwar women artists from Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg. Bringing together work from the 1960s through to the present day, it will feature artists Renate Bertlmann, Birgit Jürgenssen, Bady Minck, Meret Oppenheim, Pipilotti Rist, Ursula (Schultze-Bluhm) and Eva Wipf.
henry-moore.org/henry-moore-institute
25 January LEEDS' CITY VARIETIES
One of the UK’s favourite TV household names once more extends his nationwide tour of British Comedy Guide’s Best Comedy Show 2023. From the quote attributed to Mark Twain, humour is defined as Tragedy Plus Time. Come and join one of our leading laugh specialists as he tests that formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs. leedsheritagetheatres.com
Until March 30
MERCER ART GALLERY
Adrift on a Painted Sea by Tim Bird is a beautiful and profound graphic novel that explores family, loss, and art through the author’s relationship with his mother, Sue Bird, who painted as a hobby throughout her life. The exhibition displays a range of paintings by Sue, alongside some artwork from the graphic novel, written by Tim after her death. northyorks.gov.uk
21 January
SHEFFIELD UTILITA ARENA
The full line-up of celebrities for 2025’s highly anticipated Strictly Come Dancing Live UK Tour has been announced. Actor Jamie Borthwick; broadcaster and opera singer Wynne Evans; singer, TV presenter and author JB Gill; Gladiator Montell Douglas; actress Sarah Hadland; singer Shayne Ward; and model Tasha Ghouri will hit the road in January 2025. StrictlyComeDancingLive.com
The ‘Otherham’ Winter Festival reimagines Rotherham’s Town Centre
FILM
30 January
HEBDEN BRIDGE
PICTURE HOUSE
The Banff Mountain Film Festival is back with a brand-new line-up of captivating short films packed with extreme journeys, intriguing characters and stunning cinematography. The Banff Mountain Film Festival brings to life the spirit of extreme adventure and the world’s last great wild places - all through the big screen. hebdenbridgepicturehouse.co.uk
roducers Je rey Seller and Cameron Mackintosh have announced new casting for the UK tour of the multi award-winning Hamilton. Hamilton is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre - a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. bradford-theatres.co.uk
As part of the year-long celebration of the borough becoming the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture, Rotherham will host a free Winter Festival from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th January. The festival will feature a captivating trail of projection installations across the town centre, bringing to life a reimagined vision of Rotherham like never before.
Flux Rotherham Programme Director Helen Jones says: "Last year over 10,000 people visited Rotherham Minster during the Winter Festival to visit The Museum of The Moon, which was amazing. But what people told us was they wanted a wider winter festival with more activity across the town, which is designed especially for Rotherham.
"This festival responds to that wish, and with imitating the dog and Grimm & Co. on board, plus the incredible imaginations of Rotherham’s children and young people, we hope to create a free, world-class cultural experience right in the heart of our town."
The vision is to imagine a place where nothing is quite as it seems; where the imaginations of young people have transformed the town, giving it an otherworldly twist. This is "Otherham", a magical town where stone walls might open portals to new worlds, where you can order the weather with your coffee, and where kindness is delivered by fluttering butterflies. It’s both familiar and fantastical, a reimagined Rotherham that invites you to see the town through a new lens. This is a unique opportunity to see the city's young people dream up a magical, unpredictable and out-of-step world.
See more at fluxrotherham.org.uk
“I have no filter, everything just comes tumbling out”
A
new TV detective show based around the Yorkshire Police is set to catapult star Ella Maisy Purvis into a whole new stratosphere. Absolutely finds out why she is
one to watch
Absolutely is comparing framed award certificates with Ella Maisy Purvis. Hers is fresh from a nomination for a RTS Breakthrough Award for her role in A Kind of Spark, mine is a football coaching award from three years ago. Whereas my coaching career pretty much ended then, you get the sense this recognition is just the beginning for Ella, particularly with her first lead role soon to hit our TV screens. Ella plays Patience Evans, who works in the criminal records department of Yorkshire Police, cataloguing and filing the evidence produced during major cases. A young autistic woman, she craves routine and order, relishing the solitude and structure her job provides but she yearns for more. A brilliant, self-taught criminologist, Patience has an instinctive eye for crime scenes and a passion for problemsolving. Detective Bea Metcalf (Breaking
Bad’s Laura Fraser) is the first person to spot and utilize her talent, which opens a door into a whole new world for Patience.
“It was an open call,” Ella says on how she first heard about the part. “I was filming something in Ireland and what really drew me to it was the production company, Eagle Eye. They were like, this is no question, we are casting an autistic person as the autistic lead [Ella is neurodivergent]. I was OK, I feel confident I am in safe hands from the get go here, so I sent in a tape, but I was so tired when I did it… I watched the tape back the other day, you know to see if there were any funny anecdotes, and at the end you can see me thinking ‘that will do, I am so tired’! And then my agent was like they want you in for a recall, and I was like eh? OK, brilliant… I met everyone and I thought I blew it. I went in and said ‘oh my god biscuits!’ Then I went round shaking everyone’s hands, and I was thinking to myself stop being so weird, why are you being so weird? We did
the scenes, I messed up my lines, I left and I thought it’s not too late to go to university…” Well, it was too late as she landed the part.
This wonderful snippet of our interview is Ella in a nutshell. It’s 30 minutes where we go o on wonderful tangents, full of colourful language (oddly refreshing), and you just don’t know what will come next. As she says, this is all new to her – being interviewed – so for now we are just enjoying going on the ride with Ella. There’s certainly no sign her enthusiasm is fake, which does happen quite often when Absolutely chats to actors about impending roles. “Firstly, I love crime dramas,” she grins. “I can quote Line of Duty, word by word, I love it. I read the first episode of Patience and the ending is really, really interesting. It’s a fantastic cli hanger. I remember thinking when are the other scripts going to come through? I was talking to my mum about it and she said you do realise this is quite a good sign you like the script and the
role… But I think it was seeing an autistic character, or a young woman who is just so deeply empathetic and justice driven. I absolutely wanted to sink my teeth into this.”
And the fact it’s a lead role? “Really scary! I didn’t feel pressure from anyone, it was a good type of nervous, it was an oh my gosh, I am actually doing it! We had a test shoot day and I remember it was in this big cool manor house in Antwerp, costume fittings, meeting everyone, it was snowing and it was gorgeous. I remember standing there with my costume thinking we are in the big league now! I can’t turn back now…”
Despite the show being set within the Yorkshire Police, filming only took place in the county for one week out of a four month
shoot. “We only did a week in York, the rest was in Belgium, a day in France. It felt so surreal, I am in this gorgeous apartment, in a lovely part of Antwerp, a car picks me up every morning, I go to work and there is a trailer with my name on it, surrounded by all these lovely people… My first day I saw a guy get set on fire! I was sitting there thinking I get paid to do this.”
So, Ella, who is Patience? “She loves animals, but she loves people and strives for connection. There are six episodes and as they progress they get more and more personal, and more of her life becomes intertwined with the cases.” Are there similarities between yourself and Patience? “Not entirely, which is a testament to the breadth of writing about neurodivergent people there is now. I love animals though – she has cats, and mice, and a lizard – and I am always listening to music, she always has her big headphones on, and I think I am always justice driven. I like to find out all the details and make sure everything is right, and that is a key component of her character. I’d say she is more internal in terms of thinking process, it’s all in her
bubble, whereas I have no filter, everything will come out. She’s very driven and determined and obsessive, and I would say I am all of those things, mostly obsessive.”
Asking Ella if she is keen on showing autism in a certain light on screen elicits the first real long pause of the interview. “At the end of the day we are all shaped by our experiences and she’s a young woman of a certain experience of life, and I think in the show she is thrown into really unique situations and the fact that we see it through a neurodivergent lens makes it better. Biased I know! But all the more interesting. I was just keen to show a young woman with depth and character.”
The anticipation for Patience is building, and if it’s anything like A Kind of Spark, we are in for a captivating ride. “It was gorgeous,” she says on the latter. “In terms of experience, on season one, I hadn’t been on set for longer than 6-7 hours, and I was there for a couple of months filming and I pretended to know everything, but I was making mental notes. I basically learnt how to be an actor there. Season two obviously was fantastic and we have just won an award. I am really vain and I had to frame my nomination.” Ella best make room for plenty more of those in the future.
Patience will be screened on Channel 4 in early 2025
The North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales National Parks’ Dark Skies Festival in February 2025 (14th February to 2nd March) will be their tenth event since the first one in February 2016. To mark the anniversary, both National Parks will be pulling out the stops to put on a special programme of events that showcases their International Dark Sky Reserve Status and illustrates how far they’ve come in protecting their unsullied night skies, in particular with external lighting projects that are creating dark sky communities, such as the village of Hawnby in the North York Moors.
A new three-week Arts Festival (7th-27th April) will coincide with the Easter holiday and will see events at both Sutton Bank and
Danby Lodge National Park Centres as well as venues right across the North York Moors. Then on 31st May, the Mini Arts Festival returns with drama, storytelling, music and art presented by the community interest group 3-Minute Arts at Glaisdale working with a whole host of other creative partners.
Both events, together with another first, a kite festival, will all help accelerate the work of a new North York Moors Arts and Culture Partnership set up by the National Park, involving more than 20 other creative organisations.
The partnership aims to enrich the local cultural scene and highlight the many ways people can enhance their well-being by immersing themselves in the arts and creativity that exists amid the National Park’s stunning natural surroundings, whether it’s visiting a gallery, finding the community artist hubs, or trying their hand at a new creative skill.
In 2025, it is the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway. Britain and the world changed forever. To celebrate #Railway200 people will be able to enjoy the new 200 trail, 200 railway themed activities at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) throughout 2025 – everything from walking routes straight from the train, geocaching, exploring filming locations and special treats served up in the historic tearooms. In May 2025, one of the NYMR’s Pullman Dining Trains will be o ering a brand-new delicious menu to
“There is plenty of railway heritage throughout the National Park”
celebrate 200 years of the modern railway. Rail enthusiasts can also stay in one of the converted heritage coaches or station houses. As well as taking a nostalgic trip on the steam train, there’s plenty of railway heritage throughout the National Park, whether it’s walking the Rail Trail between Goathland and Grosmont before hopping back on the heritage line, or finding out how Rosedale Abbey’s Victorian trainline transported ironstone to Teesside.
As part of the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway, you can have a great day out and a mini adventure by crossing through the heart of the North York Moors onboard a train along the Esk Valley Railway, which runs between Middlesbrough and Whitby. From the industrial heartland of Teesside, the train then travels through beautiful North York Moors dales, with the opportunity to stop o at historic, characterful villages such as Danby, Egton, Lealholm, Glaisdale and Grosmont before reaching Whitby.
For 2025, the National Park will be highlighting places that are less-visited. Tucked away on the edge of the Tabular Hills just north of Pickering, Cropton village has an ‘under the radar’ attraction – Cawthorn Roman Camps, the earthwork remains of a Roman military complex, which includes two forts. New interpretation panels telling the story of the site are being installed and an accessible viewing platform o ers one of the best views across the North York Moors. An
existing 1-mile Miles without Stiles walking trail guides people around the camps.
Many people bypass the market town of Helmsley and the tranquil surroundings of Rievaulx Abbey in their rush to reach Whitby and the abbey on the coastal headland. Yet this is to miss out on two very special places to enjoy a day out or short break. Helmsley has quietly become a magnet for talented food producers and good independent restaurants as well as being home to an historic castle, walled garden, National Centre for Birds
“Events will show how they protect their unsullied night skies”
of Prey and a busy arts centre. Nearby the English Heritage managed Rievaulx Abbey ruins are set in a beautiful tranquil valley. The newly opened St Aelred’s Trail (with routes for walkers, cyclists and horse riders) o ers a circular 41-mile route that starts and ends in Helmsley, with Rievaulx Abbey on route. Alternatively, walkers can set o along the Cleveland Way National Trail on a shorter walk direct to Rievaulx Abbey.
As well as flagging up walking and cycling loops from railway stations across the National Park, there are plenty of other ways of travelling car-free. The Mountain Goat minibus guided tours might be well known in the Lakes, but there is also a fullday tour that goes from York right across to Whitby via Byland Abbey, Helmsley and Goathland where passengers then join the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to Whitby.
Utilise the rapidly-expanding, comprehensive cycling-friendly infrastructure that includes e-bike hire to make the tougher, hillier sections far easier; waymarked routes such as the 171-mile North York Moors cycleway following quieter roads; and the numerous points where cyclists can repair, secure or re-charge their bikes.
The Coastliner bus service runs from Leeds to Whitby via York, Pickering, Thornton le Dale, Goathland and Ruswarp. Even with the new single journey price of £3, the Coastliner experience presents great value for money. Once voted the most scenic bus route, it takes people on a journey right through the heart of the North York Moors.
northyorkmoors.org.uk
Yorkshire is an ideal destination for winter walks. From the rolling hills of the Dales to the windswept moors and the rugged coastline, there’s something special about experiencing the region’s beauty during the colder months. Here are some of the best places in Yorkshire for winter walks, with familyfriendly activities that everyone will enjoy.
For a walk with both historical and natural beauty, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden is perfect. The site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the bestpreserved abbeys in England. In winter, the grounds and water gardens o er a magical atmosphere, with the abbey ruins providing a dramatic backdrop to the wintry landscape. The National Trust o ers family-friendly trails through the estate, making it a great destination for younger children to enjoy nature. The park also has a great playground, perfect for families to unwind after a winter walk.
The Yorkshire Dales is one of the most picturesque regions in the UK, with its limestone hills, valleys, and waterfalls. During the colderm months, the park becomes a winter wonderland, often dusted with snow, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a peaceful walk. The area around Malham Cove is particularly stunning, with its towering limestone cli s and the serene waters of Gordale Scar.
A relatively easy walk to the top of Malham Cove o ers spectacular views, and it’s a great way for families to experience the beauty of the Dales. You can also visit nearby Gordale Scar, a dramatic waterfall hidden within a gorge. For a family-friendly adventure, hop on the Settle-Carlisle Railway, which runs through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Dales. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the winter scenery without having to walk for miles.
For a winter walk closer to the city, Roundhay Park in Leeds is an excellent choice. This large park, located just a short drive from Leeds city centre, features a variety of
“DURING THE COLDER MONTHS, IT BECOMES A WINTER WONDERLAND”
landscapes, including woodlands, lakes, and formal gardens. The paths around the park are perfect for a winter walk, o ering lovely views of the trees and lakes that are often frosted with winter ice.
Located within Roundhay Park, Tropical World is a popular family attraction. It’s a warm indoor oasis filled with tropical plants, reptiles and exotic animals, making it a great spot to visit on a chilly winter day.
Rivelin Valley, on the outskirts of She eld, o ers a stunning winter walk through woodlands and along the river. The valley is particularly atmospheric in winter, with its frost-covered trees and flowing streams. The walk is familyfriendly and o ers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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The Rivelin Valley Nature Trail is a great way to introduce children to the wildlife and natural beauty of the valley. The trail includes informative signs and is suitable for all ages.
Brimham Rocks, located in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, o ers one of Yorkshire’s most unique landscapes. The site is filled with bizarrely shaped rock formations, which become even more striking against the winter sky. The walk is relatively easy, making it accessible for families with children or those with less experience. For more adventurous families, Brimham Rocks o ers excellent opportunities for bouldering and rock climbing. While it’s not for everyone, children and adults alike can enjoy scrambling over the rocks (under supervision).
The Yorkshire coast has some of the most scenic winter walks in the country, and Filey Brigg is one of the standout locations. This dramatic headland o ers coastal views and rugged cli s, with the sea crashing below. The walk along the cli tops is peaceful, with the chance to spot winter seabirds and enjoy the fresh, bracing air. While the beach is quieter in winter, it’s still perfect for a family walk. The sandy shores and coastal rock pools can be explored, and children can look for sea life and fossils along the shore. For a slightly less crowded experience, families
can head to Cayton Bay, just south of Filey, where there are fewer tourists and a lovely sandy beach to explore.
The Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth is a great place to start a walk across the Brontë Moors, a landscape famous for its association with the Brontë sisters. The moors are particularly evocative in winter, with the bleak, dramatic landscape providing a sense of isolation and beauty. The walk to Top Withens, believed to be the inspiration for Wuthering Heights, is a must-do for any literary lover as well as keen hiker.
Swaledale, in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, is one of the most beautiful valleys
in the region. In winter, the area is peaceful and idyllic, with dramatic fells and dry stone walls set against the snow. The walk along the river Swale is particularly scenic, with waterfalls like Hardraw Force (England's tallest single-drop waterfall) being especially impressive during winter. Just a short drive from Swaledale, the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes o ers a warm and welcoming stop for families. The creamery o ers guided tours where children can learn how cheese is made and taste some local varieties, perfect after all this walking.
A Leeds-based music leader and disability advocate has been recognised for her work in grassroots projects
K“I WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT FOR THE INCLUSION OF DISABLED PEOPLE THROUGH MUSIC”
Discussing her award win, Kathryn says: “It’s amazing. I definitely wasn’t expecting it and I’m absolutely delighted. I’m going to continue to run my charity Made with Music, and continue to fight for the inclusion of disabled people through music.”
athryn Sturman has been named the winner of the Inspirational Music Leader Award sponsored by The Musician’s Union (The MU), at the star-studded Youth Music Awards 2024 in association with Hal Leonard Europe. The Inspirational Music Leader Award recognises a leader working in grassroots music who inspires project participants through their actions, creativity and determination.
Kathryn scooped the award for her work supporting families and advocating for greater accessibility and inclusion in the music industry though her charity Made with Music, an organisation that delivers inclusive live music sessions for families, all whilst navigating her visual impairment. Kathryn lost her sight whilst studying at the University of Leeds, but has not let that impact the delivery of high-quality music workshops for young people, families, community groups and professional artists.
The awards celebrate the trailblazing entrepreneurs, grassroots projects and young leaders from across the scene. In its 25th year, Youth Music is celebrating the work that has been done to equalise access to making, learning, and earning in music, whilst campaigning for a more diverse and more inclusive industry.
Guests of the Youth Music Awards 2024 saw the biggest names in music in attendance, including ‘Who’s That Girl?’ rapper and Youth Music Ambassador Eve, and Jordan Stephens, best known as one half of charttopping duo Rizzle Kicks, who attended the ceremony to collect his Grassroots Hero Award. As well as this, Grammy-nominated artist and Youth Music Ambassador MNEK, who all came together to celebrate the best of the grassroots music scene.
A renowned judging panel of music industry figures and Youth Music Ambassadors, including comedian, journalist and broadcaster Amelia Dimoldenberg, DJ duo BICEP, broadcaster and DJ Gilles Peterson MBE, and radio presenter Jess Iszatt judged hundreds of entries from across the country to the Youth Music Awards this year.
For a full list of winners, and for more information, head to youthmusic.org.uk/awards
SAN CARLO
This January, treat yourself to an authentic Italian dining experience at San Carlo, a renowned restaurant group known for its exquisite Italian cuisine and vibrant ambience. With a rich heritage and commitment to quality, San Carlo offers a diverse menu featuring traditional Italian dishes crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. From classic pasta and pizza to delectable seafood and meat dishes, every meal is a celebration of Italy's culinary artistry. sancarlo.co.uk
It was 20 years ago when Richard and Lindsey Johns first opened a restaurant together, and their latest chapter has seen them head to North Yorkshire
The Plough is located in the village of Wombleton, in stunning countryside between the Howardian Hills and North Yorkshire Moors. Wombleton itself is an ancient village, with records dating back as far back as 1086 – and its latest chapter is certainly a tasty morsel. It was recently taken over by Richard and Lindsey Johns, well-known to the discerning restaurant goer thanks to previous ventures, Artisan, Rascills and The Hovingham Inn. The building’s history plays a key role in the o ering: the oldest part of the building, built as long ago as 1498, is now the dining room. Monks were known to serve their brews through the small window back in the 1400s and 1500s. The dining room still contains many of the original features, with low ceiling, exposed wooden beams and stonework.
The food is lovingly prepared in a welcoming setting, already recognised in the esteemed Estrella Top 50 UK gastropubs just three months after opening. They’re also listed in the 2024 Good Food Guide. Absolutely ventured to Wombleton to sit down with Richard and Lindsey to look back over 20 years and why now, finally, was the time to take on The Plough.
Q When did you two first meet and were you both in the hospitality industry at the time?
A LINDSEY: We met in a local gym of all places! I was in the police at the time and Richard was working in hospitality.
Q Was Artisan your first joint venture?
A RICHARD: Artisan was our first joint venture, which we opened in 2004. I managed to talk Lindsey into giving up a perfectly stable career in the police. The police force’s loss has definitely been a hospitality gain.
Q How do you look back on that time?
A RICHARD: Artisan was our baby which served us very well for nearly 10 years. We set the place up with nothing, into gaining a very well-regarded, high-quality restaurant. We were certainly ahead of our time back then, due to the nature of the restaurant and the area we were in. A small, 16-cover restaurant with a set menu to match. Almost unheard of at the time.
Q How would you sum up your experiences of running Rascills and The Hovingham Inn that followed?
A LINDSEY: In a word, challenging! Rascills was a rural version of Artisan, set on a farm. Despite the food and service being as good as we had ever o ered, we constantly struggled with the location of the restaurant. We just couldn’t gain the traction required to make it the success we wanted. This was the first time we found out just how dismissive people can be without ever visiting. However, there were lots of people from the trade who came to visit. One Michelin-starred chef cited at the time, he thought it should become the first Michelin-starred restaurant found down a dirt track! We carried on for just over two years before the Hovingham Inn opportunity arose. RICHARD: Hovingham Inn is a long story. It was planned to be our final stop, and our third complete, independent set-up in five years. We had done so many hard yards by this point. Alas, COVID then happened just six months in and that linked to a few other setbacks compounded an already di cult situation. On the plus side, we did build a very solid business, which was recognised by entering the 2022 Estrella Top 50 UK Gastropubs.
“The Plough just felt right from day one”
Q When did the opportunity to take over The Plough first come up?
A LINDSEY: Another long story. It was back in 2018 whenwe first went after The Plough. Unfortunately, the deal we had to purchase fell through. It then came around in 2022, but again was unable to get it over the line. At this point here, there was no intention to go after it again. But the opportunity arose once more in mid-2023. Third time lucky, we managed to secure a deal. We cannot ever be accused of giving up.
Q Why were you keen to take it on?
A RICHARD: The Plough just felt right from day one. Although not in quite a visible position as the Hovingham Inn, which we were very aware of, having had asimilar experience with Rascills, it kept coming back to us. Having spent the last three years just down the road, developing the Hovingham Inn, we hoped to restart where we’d left o . Plus, the fact The Plough is a much nicer property!
Q What were you keen to o er in the pub/bar area?
A RICHARD: It was very important we kept the bar as the bar. We have an excellent local following who absolutely love the bar. We want folks to feel at ease coming into The Plough to enjoy a drink, without feeling they need to eat. This has worked very well. So many places play lip service to bars but definitely not here. We have created a little snug area, with the log burner and comfy sofa. A library
of my cookbook collection adorns a large bookcase. Folks can mull over a recipe while enjoying a co ee or waiting to dine. We’ve installed a beautiful Italian co ee machine serving locally sourced co ee from York. We have introduced takeaway co ee too for those on the move. Lindsey has improved the drinks o erings on the bar since our arrival. The biggest surprise has been seeing some of our very regular, serious beer drinkers drop their previous choice of beer, over to our very local beer, which is brewed only three miles away. Some things do change!
Q To the food, how did you want to approach the menus?
A RICHARD: We are now into our 20th year of trading. In that time, we have developed our own style of food, championing those classic dishes, cooked and presented in a modern fashion. Being in a pub setting, it is important to carry on in the same manner. We are not into challenging customers with our food. Life is challenging enough. We keep an eye on what
is going on inthe food scene, but stay well away from the food fashions that come and go.
Q Are there 2-3 dishes you are particularly loving right now?
A RICHARD: I try not to hang on to dishes for too long. However certain dishes are very popular. Our chateaubriand sharing steak and roast pork and crackling on a Sunday is massively popular. If I say so myself, I think you would be hard pushed to find a better version anywhere.
Q Why, Richard, do you like to work solo in the kitchen?
A RICHARD: That’s a good question and one very rarely asked. The short answer is I don’t like working solo, it’s just the way it seems to have panned out. Getting good chefs is so di cult nowadays. I would be more than happy if an enthusiastic chef were to come along and join us. If anyone is reading this, get in touch! I suppose I have become known for working unaided. A leading industry magazine once coined me as ‘the lone ranger’, which was pretty apt! Over the years, I have simply managed to figure out how to work the right side of possible.
Q What are your hopes for 2025 for The Plough?
A LINDSEY: We both want to build a very strong and robust business here at the Plough. Having given so much to the industry, it is important to us that we become viewed as a serious and pleasant dining option to the locals and tourists visiting the area. More so, as The Plough becomes known as the place to relax and enjoy, be it propping up the bar with a drink or indulging in some fine food and wine. We love what we do but try not to take ourselves too seriously, always trying to be that bit better the next day.
ploughwombleton.uk
Escape to the Yorkshire Dales for a cosy overnight stay in a comfortable room for two. Savour a two-course Sunday lunch* with a bottle of house wine, then kickstart your week with a hearty Yorkshire breakfast. Enjoy early access to our leisure facilities from 12pm on check-in day, and with a 10% discount on treatments at our on-site Long Ashes Pure Spa, you can truly indulge in a relaxing getaway.
*Sunday lunch available from 12 - 4pm.
SetwithinsixteenacresofgardensandmeadowlandintheheartoftheWildEastYorkshire Triangle,fourmilesfromthehistoricmarkettownofBeverleyandastone’sthrowfromthe coast.StrollamongstourprettyEnglishgardensandrewildedmeadowlands,sinkintothe sumptuousinteriorsofoursharingspaces,dineinourelegantrestauranttheBloomsburyRoom; ladenwithconsummatedelights,beforebedinoneofourtwentyonecharmingrooms,cloaked inthesoftestofYorkshireyarns.
TicktonGrange,Tickton,Beverley,EastYorkshire,HU179SHT:01964543666 W:www.ticktongrange.co.ukE:info@ticktongrange.co.uk
Working with other small family businesses who, like us, believe in encouraging real craftsmanship, we have tackled everything: from handmade valances, trimmed footstools, luxurious hand crafted headboards to Yorkshire Emporium tea to welcome guests to their room. Spotless rooms, robes, slippers, flu y towels, comfy beds and crisp bed linen are a given, but there are many extras from homemade biscuits to lovely toiletries.
In our kitchens, our chefs source local organic muesli, honey from our own bees, local artisan cheeses, salmon, duck and chicken smoked in Justin Staal’s smokehouse which is a few miles from us. Fish from the coast, meat from the Wolds. Skilfully prepared, with a lightness of touch, our Bloomsbury menu from a saucer of sparkling Bloomsbury wine to whet your palette, to a house made tru e by the fire to end your meal, our food is memorable. And, the list goes on. We do local. We always have, long before it became trendy.
Tickton Grange Georgian Hotel: a family business for more than 45 years
Born and brought up in Northampton, previous generations of our family worked in the shoe industry. Quality craftsmanship was in our blood. Yorkshire was just for holidays. But a deal had been struck. When our father retired, he would take our mother home to her beloved Yorkshire. So, over 45 years ago our parents came home and we, their children, came with them. As soon as we walked through the front door of the empty, dilapidated Tickton Grange in 1979 we knew it was right. A special place, a place of welcome, a place to share. And share it we have; not only with wonderful guests, but also with fantastic
sta , many of whom have been with us for years and have become part of our family. We weren’t daunted all those years ago by the wet rot, dry rot, collapsing ceilings and overgrown gardens. We love a challenge and we love this house. So, we keep moving forward. A Georgian house of beautiful proportions, surrounded by four acres of formal gardens (perfect for memorable photographs), 16 acres of fields and woodland to stroll in (with your best friend if you like), a Farmstead for casual entertaining, 21 individual bedrooms, the Bloomsbury restaurant, Hockney lounge and some elegant celebrating spaces, we think we have everything you need to share with us.
Our iconic Afternoon Tea is much talked about. We were lucky enough to have the opportunity to work with a ceramicist who joined forces with Royal Crown Derby and designed the stunning fine bone china we serve our tea on. With delicate sweet and savoury items, and a special festive tea from the Yorkshire Emporium, you can sit by a roaring fire and celebrate.
Now, with many members of the fourth generation stealing a march, we hope to be welcoming guests for another 45 years.
ticktongrange.co.uk
“If the quality of your ingredients is good enough, then people will come back”
Wholesome and delicious Italian food is always on the menu at San Carlo
fter the excesses of Christmas, many of us are looking for some lighter options this month. In true Italian style, San Carlo uses only the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients, allowing these to shine. Many ingredients are flown in from produce markets across Italy to ensure authenticity. From 22 spectacular seafood dishes to the freshest antipasti, unrivalled grill specialities such as the tomahawk steak and a broad range of masterfully prepared meat, pizza, and pasta recipes, these dishes are designed to engage all of your senses and are cooked to order by each restaurant’s individual team of talented chefs.
“The key to everything is the quality of the ingredients, that is what it comes down to. Italian food is based on simple cooking. So if the quality of your ingredients is good enough, then people will come back,” says San Carlo CEO Marcello Distefano.
Healthy Menu Options for January include soups such as classic Minestrone or slow-cooked lentil and vegetable, while simple salads including chicken, tuna and bu alo mozzarella are perennial favourites.
Pollo Marinato is a popular dish of flattened chicken breast with a caper, butter and lemon sauce, while Tonno e Lenticchie is a delicious charcoal grilled yellowfin tuna served with tomato lentils that goes well with baby spinach sauteed with garlic oil and chilli.
Dessert spans delicious gelato and San Carlo’s famous pistachio or Italian style millefeuille cakes, tortes and mousses. All desserts are made daily in the patisserie kitchen. And there’s an expertly curated wine list with exclusively imported and great value house options, half bottles and great wines by the glass as well as some very rare and fine options. San Carlo o ers more than 150 wines to suit all tastes and pockets and friendly sommeliers are on hand to help choose, if needed. Salut!
sancarlo.co.uk
BERRY’S JEWELLERS
Ember, the stunning new diamond jewellery collection from Berry’s Jewellers, embodies a modern, organic, sculptural style with a sensuous, tactile allure. Designed in-house, the vision for Ember was to create pieces that feel as dynamic and alive as nature itself, with designs that effortlessly contour around the body and are comfortable and wearable for any occasion.
Discover the Ember Collection in Berry’s boutiques and online at berrysjewellers.co.uk
Start 2025 with a vibrant new look, courtesy of handbags from Lalage Beaumont, available to buy at Hoopers Harrogate
Pop the question in 2025 with these dream rings
By CARLY GLENDINNING
BERRY'S JEWELLERS
Platinum Radiant Cut Yellow Diamond Three Stone Ring, £59,995 berrysjewellers.co.uk
MICHELLE OH
18K Yellow Gold and White Marquise Diamond Ring, Price Upon Request michelle-oh.com
TOMFOOLERY LONDON
14K Trio Yellow Cushion Cut Sapphire and Diamond Ring, £4,495 tomfoolerylondon.co.uk
ANITA KO
18K Yellow Gold, Diamonds Heart Shaped Diamond Loulou Locket Ring, £9,045 anitako.com
BERRY'S JEWELLERS
Platinum GIA 2.51 Carat Oval Cut Diamond Single Stone Ring with Oval Cut Diamond Shoulders, £89,995 berrysjewellers.co.uk
BERRY'S JEWELLERS
Platinum GIA Cushion Shape Yellow Diamond Halo Ring, £97,500 berrysjewellers.co.uk
MEADOWLARK AT TOMFOOLERY LONDON
14K White Gold and White Diamond Sacred Ring, £3,319 tomfoolerylondon.co.uk
AURELIA DENMARK
18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Eclipse Ring, £21,955 aureliademark.com
18K Yellow Gold, Lab Grown Diamond Amoretto Emerald Solitaire Ring, £4,735 mazarin-paris.com
Dr Nyla Raja looks into the aesthetics trends we can expect to see in 2025
Ahighly respected and much sought after skin specialist and cosmetic dermatology GP, Dr Nyla Raja has practiced medicine for over 20 years and has personally delivered over 200,000 treatments with exceptional results. Trusted by television personalities, well-known celebrity figures and some of the UK’s most familiar faces, she is considered to be one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country. Here she gives her insight into the top skincare and aesthetics trends to watch in 2025.
Dr Nyla says: “As we move into 2025, the world of aesthetics and skincare will continue to evolve. It’s not just about the aesthetic outcome anymore, but a holistic approach to maintaining skin health and longevity. Patients are looking for advanced, non-invasive treatments that enhance natural beauty and focus on long-term skin wellness. Below are some of the biggest trends in 2025.”
2025 will be all about 'undetectable beauty', where aesthetic treatments enhance your natural features without being visibly noticeable.The desire for subtle, natural-looking enhancements is at an all-time high. Patients are increasingly leaning towards procedures that deliver natural, 'undetectable' results. They want to look refreshed, not altered.Microlifting, skin tightening treatments, and injectables will focus on enhancing natural contours and improving skin tone.
Younger generations are increasingly focused on 'prejuvenation' – preventing the signs of ageing before they occur. Patients are looking for preventative treatments that preserve skin firmness and delay signs of ageing, without the need for more invasive interventions later on. Light peels, laser facials, and microinjectables will become key treatments.
We’re seeing incredible advancements in skintightening technologies. These treatments o er non-invasive, long-lasting solutions that help patients achieve firmer, more youthful skin without downtime. Treatments like our bespoke Transformation Facelift™ use advanced technologies to target deeper layers of the skin, lifting and firming without the need for invasive surgery. In just a few sessions, we can help restore volume and improve skin texture, leaving you with a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Additionally, our Transformation Bodylift targets stubborn fat in specific areas, to contour and reshape the body and build muscle for men and women. The treatment program combines di erent technologies bespoke to individual needs,
and leaves patients feeling empowered, sculpted, and ready to step out with confidence. The images below show one recent case study with fabulous results. Using a variety of innovative technologies, Tone & Tite therapy addresses all five key causes of cellulite. By combining radiofrequency and acoustic wave technology, the treatment plan works on both the superficial and deeper layers of the skin to improve tone and texture, delivering long-lasting results without downtime.
“As we head into 2025, there is a focus on a holistic approach to maintaining skin health and longevity”
Dr Nyla Medispa Cheshire is located at Castlerock House, Wilmslow Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire, SK9 7QL. Call 0162 552 3307 / 0800 009 6661 to book a complementary consultation, and visit doctornyla.com
Absolutely discovers more about a complex case that the specialist team at Renovo Dental recently carried out
Abusy care worker has had her life transformed following pioneering same-day dental implant treatment carried out in the Ribble Valley.Leading the way in UK implant technology is Lancashire-based Renovo Dental, which was one of the first implant centres in the country to adopt the highly successful, ground-breaking ‘Fully Guided Implant Surgery’ technique.
Highly experienced in this same-day procedure, implant surgeon Dr Usman Riaz and a specialist team, including in-house dental technicians, worked together using the latest digital technology to replace both upper and lower teeth permanently in just over three hours – omitting the need for dentures.
Despite following strict hygiene protocols and advice by her own dentist, Cathy’s gums and bone levels had deteriorated further, causing unsightly gaps in her teeth and several teeth became mobile.
“This is what end-stage gum disease looks like,” Dr Riaz explains. “Unfortunately, genetics were not in the patient’s favour. Typically, this sort of problem develops later in life, but Cathy is relatively young and her teeth were beyond saving.
“At this point, it is less about preserving teeth and all about using the remaining bone and soft tissue to help restore full function, aesthetics and confidence. Timing of the intervention with dental implant placements was crucial in this case.”
Cathy adds: “My general dentist told me I needed to go and see Dr Usman and his team at Renovo for
long-term permanent treatment. I plucked up the courage and went.”
Following an X-ray and jaw scans, the news was not good for Cathy. “I have always looked after myself and losing my teeth was my idea of hell. It was a terrible shock,” she says. “Usman said I wouldn’t like dentures, but left the decision totally to me. He explained the procedure and reassured me it would be pain free, so I eventually made the decision and agreed to implants.”
Dr Riaz and the award-winning Renovo team set to work, beginning a detailed assessment of what could be done. In the lead up to the same-day, full upper and lower arch implants, Dr Riaz explained the procedure in detail to Cathy, who arrived at the state-of-the-art surgery in Chatburn, early in the morning.
“Usman and the team were fantastic. It’s not like going to the dentist, it’s like visiting a friend. They explained everything so I wasn’t at all nervous about the procedure. I had got to know them and it is obvious that they are experts in their field,” adds Cathy.
The team, including specialist periodontist Dr Khurrum Hussain along
“When I looked in the mirror and smiled it was unbelievable. My teeth look totally natural and I am thrilled”
with a team of expert dental technicians, began work eliminating all sources of infection using state-of the-art laser technology, that eradicates over 99 per cent of allharmful bacteria.
With gum contouring and bone grafts carried out on the same day, Cathy, under sedation, was painlessly fitted with a completely new set of upper and lower implants in a procedure that has made Renovo Dental a flagship practice for this digital, full-arch implant technique.
During their years’ of experience, the team has refined the procedure utilising the latest in-house, digital CT-guided technology that ensures pinpoint accuracy. This technique for implants is faster, easier and more e cient for the surgeons and safer, and more comfortable, for patients with faster healing times.
“It is Artificial Intelligence with a human touch,” explains Dr Riaz. “Our surgery protocol is a unique concept for digital guidance that allows us to plan and place dental implants with perfect accuracy. It eliminates human error.” Cathy, who was delighted with the
results, adds: “When I looked in the mirror and smiled it was unbelievable. I have always covered my mouth when I smile because of my teeth.”
The transformation is astounding – Cathy now looks 20 years younger following the procedure and has gained immeasurable confidence: “My teeth look totally natural and I am thrilled!”
Speaking about the team at Renovo Dental, which was named the North of England’s Best Practice and Best Referral Practice at the prestigious Dentistry Awards, Cathy adds: “These guys are incredible. After years of avoiding having pictures taken, I’m incredibly grateful to Usman and his team for their hard work, dedication and patience. You really couldn’t be in safer hands. I now have a new lease of life and can’t stop smiling – thank you!”
Dr Riaz, who is a highly experienced clinician specialising in aesthetic and implant dentistry, adds: “Obviously, perfect planning and preparation is key to this sort of specialist dentistry.The final implant teeth are all hand layered ceramic teeth, crafted by our specialist dental ceramicists. We can make as many changes as we like – to the shape, texture, character and vitality of the teeth. This is truly bespoke, customised dentistry.
“The implants feel like real teeth. In Cathy’s case it has turned back the clock and given her so much confidence. It really is life changing dentistry.”
RENOVO DENTAL
Pendle House, Clitheroe Road, Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000 @renovodental
Q&A
Yorkshire’s Sarah Clough is ensuring many of us don’t accept wear and tear in the body. Absolutely uncovers her story
Q What challenges did life throw at you that eventually led to you creating The Ageless Movement Coach Business?
A My life now is a far cry from my 20s (spent living in Japan, travelling, and setting up a fashion business), my 30s (spent living and working in Zambia, and setting up an NGO), my 40s (setting up another fashion business and becoming a mother)... and then hitting rock bottom. Life had been the proverbial rollercoaster and as I approached my 50s I knew things had to change. I was worn out, disengaged with life and struggling with aches and pains. Countless appointments with doctors, lots of medications, scans, seeking out di erent treatments, were not getting me anywhere. One doctor actually told me it was only to be expected as I got older. At this point all I could think was: “Really? Is this it?” But fate has a funny way of working and thankfully at this time we went on a holiday to Turkey that was to change my life. I was doing Pilates by the beach each day with a gentle breeze coming o the sea, eating well, sleeping well and for the first time in years feeling more at peace. Sitting by the pool one day I had a random conversation with a stranger, and told her I had a dream to become a Pilates teacher. That was my catalyst. That was all it took to realise the only thing holding me back was not my age or ability, but my mindset. Fast forward and at 50 I retrained and opened up a Pilates studio at home. At 57 life changed for us all (2020 – we all remember that!). Lockdown shifted everything. It made me rethink not just how I taught movement, but my entire approach. With more time to research the science of ageing, I delved into how it a ects our bodies and minds – and what we can do to stay vibrant longer. I was struggling with aches and pains myself, and as I began teaching these new methods, I saw dramatic improvements in my own health and my clients’ wellbeing. That was the spark I needed.
Q When you started to learn more about Pilates, why did you realise it could be a life changer?
A When our bodies are optimally aligned it places the least amount of stress on our joints, muscles and ligaments. Building movement from this foundation boosts performance and lowers our risk of injury. It was the missing link in truly understanding movement and health.
Q Why did you launch The Vitality Blueprint?
A After seeing how life-changing these principles were for my clients, I felt a responsibility to make them accessible to a broader audience. The Vitality Blueprint is a roadmap to lasting health, breaking down the complex needs of the body into simple, actionable steps. It’s about so much more than exercise; it’s about transforming how you move, think, feel and live. I designed it to include mindset practices and a community of like-minded women because true change happens with the right support and structure. I wanted this to be the place where women find the guidance, support and accountability they need to thrive.
Q What does it entail?
A The Vitality Blueprint is built on four pillars: movement, stress management, nutrition, and minimising environmental impact. Each day there’s a short video to guide participants in building strength, flexibility, and resilience. Alongside that, I incorporate techniques to calm the nervous system and reduce stress and anxiety, which help reduce inflammation in the body. There are also tools and techniques for shifting mindset
“Health, strength and vitality are your birthright, but they don't happen by magic”
to embed these habits deeply and ensure they are there for life. Our group coaching calls and community provide accountability, connection and the power of shared journeys. The programme is structured to become a lifestyle shift, supporting my clients not just through 12 weeks, but through life.
Q Ultimately, what message are you looking to get across?
A Health, strength, and vitality are your birthright, but they don’t happen by magic. It’s not about quick fixes or cosmetic changes; it’s about building a foundation that supports you for life – and it’s never too early (or too late) to start. Good health is a commitment and something we honour with consistent, daily actions. It’s not something we can outsource. I want people to realise that they don’t have to accept aches, fatigue, or feeling “less than”. With the right support and dedication, you can reclaim a body that feels as vibrant and limitless as your spirit.
Q How long have you been based in Yorkshire and what do you love best about it?
A Yorkshire has been home my whole life, aside from a couple of years in Japan and six in Zambia. I love Yorkshire’s people – their dry humour, grit, warmth, and sense of community. And the landscape is breathtaking! From historic minsters, castles and gardens to vibrant cities and quaint villages, hills, rivers and beaches, we have it all. There’s a reason they call it “God’s own country”.
instagram.com/sarah_ theagelessmovementcoach thevitalityblueprint.com
Discover how to reduce lower back pain, ease stiff joints and boost your energy so you can achieve your goals.
It’s time to stop aches and pains from limiting your enjoyment of life.
The FREE 3-Day Body Reset & Rebalance is a live online event with Sarah Clough, Pilates Teacher and founder of The Vitality Blueprint, empowering women through movement.
Her holistic approach addresses the underlying causes of discomfort, low energy, aches and pains and reveals how to improve posture, increase core strength, enhance flexibility and regain ease of movement in a way that is simple, effective and enjoyable.
Challenge begins 13th January 2025 at 6.30 pm.
Spaces are limited so save your spot before they are gone.
Book now www.thevitalityblueprint.com/challenge
Christmas is done and dusted and the tinsel safely stowed for another year. It’s time to make good on those new year’s resolutions. Whether you’ve decided to stop smoking, lose a few pounds and hit the gym, or cut down on your favourite tipple, studies show that willpower is all about the brain.
If you’ve always thought you were weakwilled while those around you were made of stronger stu , think again. Willpower, it seems, is a somewhat limited resource and many experts believe that trying to give up too many things at once, or when under stress, is more or less impossible.
You have to be in the right frame of mind, and where willpower is concerned, that would be the prefrontal cortex just behind your forehead. This is the area
“TRYING TO GIVE UP TOO MANY THINGS AT ONCE IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE”
of the brain responsible for keeping us focused, handling short-term memory and solving abstract problems. And if it’s busy doing all of these things at once, showing restraint can sometimes prove di cult.
Make 2025 your healthiest and happiest year yet with these five easy, and more importantly, sustainable switches.
You are much more likely to succeed in your goals if you allow your brain to concentrate on one change at a time; embarking upon a new diet, coupled with daily sessions down the gym (having previously never set foot in one), is unrealistic.
Certain nutrients can also help to boost concentration and support brain health. Boost your B vitamins – they’re important for managing stress, yes, but they’re also important for healthy brain function. Of all the B vitamins, B12 is especially important for red blood cell formation and energy release. Having low levels of vitamin B12 will zap your mental energy, your attention span and your cognitive function. We only need a small amount of vitamin B12, circa 1.5 mcg per day, but because it is mainly found in animal products, vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the most common vegetarian and vegan diet deficiencies. Foods rich in B12 include
mussels, mackerel, soya milk and yoghurt, alternatively a supplement can help.
If you want to lose a few pounds, do so sensibly. There is no magic weight loss pill. Eat healthily and eat regularly. Your brain uses more energy when it’s being asked to exert willpower, and the hungrier you are the harder it is to resist cravings. To combat sugary cravings top up on chromium-rich foods, which can include wholegrains, brown rice and green beans.
You’ve probably heard of your ‘fight or flight’ reflexes, but what you might not realise, is that every time you experience stress, these reflexes are triggered. ‘Fight or flight’ is great for fleeing actual danger, but a little excessive when pulled into a meeting with your boss. When stressed your body prioritises where it spends its energies, and nutrients are leached away from less vital areas of the body, such as your skin and hair, and redirected towards key survival organs. Nutrients that are used up more quickly in times of stress include magnesium, the B vitamins and vitamin C, so look to keep these topped up through diet and, if necessary, supplements.
If you are feeling a little low, St. John’s Wort or Hypericum can help with feelings of sluggishness, low mood and mild anxiety. Scientists believe it works by prolonging the action of serotonin and by increasing levels of melatonin. Hyperiforce St John’s Wort tablets are registered for addressing low mood and mild anxiety, but Hypericum can take up to six weeks for best results, and it can interact with other medications and a ect the way they work, so isn’t suitable for everyone. Check with your GP first if on prescribed medicines. If Hypericum is not for you, you could try A.Vogel’s Passiflora Complex Spray. A gentle, non-addictive relaxing blend of herbs for
“DON'T BE HARD ON YOURSELF. EVERY JOURNEY BEGINS WITH A FIRST STEP”
those needing to relax, it combines Passiflora (passionflower) and Lemon Balm. The handy spray makes it ideal for using on-the-go.
Finally, moderate, regular exercise is key to a healthy lifestyle; it speeds up the rate at which your body breaks down fat and it’s great for your mental health, better still if you can get outdoors as green space exposure is believed to activate a primitive part of the brain involved with stress regulatory responses. Just 10 minutes a day will help you to feel better and more in control.
Final take-home? Don’t be too hard on yourself. Every journey begins with a first step – well done for wanting to make a positive change in the first place.
For further information contact the team at Tullivers on 01904 636437, or visit them in store at 1-2 Colliergate, York, YO1 8BP
L“This is a trip for the mind, body and soul”
fevershamarmshotel.com Have a revitalising start to 2025 at The Feversham Arms
ooking for a fresh, glowing start to the New Year? Why not treat yourself to a rejuvenating ‘New Year, New Me’ at Feversham Arms’ Verbena Spa with this, their Signature spa package for January. This treatment focuses upon detoxing and rebalancing with a lymphatic body brush experience, followed by a warm, mineral-rich application of a mud wrap to envelope the body. This cocooning is enhanced by a facial and scalp massage, whilst the mud works its detoxification magic (60 mins treatment).
The day is also complemented by a one-course lunch, with bubbles, use of the spa’s thermal facilities, including the hot tub and outdoor heated pool, and time for you to set your intentions for the new year ahead (‘New Year, New Me’ spa package from £129, based on midweek price).
If time allows, a spa staycation is the perfect chance to re-set and certainly an antidote
to the January blues – with its resort-like ambience and heated pool, when a quiet night away with a loved one to simply chill out and relax, or plan out the year ahead, is much needed. The ‘You and Me Spa Time’ o ers a 60 mins Temple Spa treatment per person, choose from my kinda skin facial, deluxe manicure or pedicure, outer glow body exfoliation or body detail wrap, plus full use of Verbena’s spa facilities (from 3pm on the day of arrival until 11am the following day). Enjoy freshly prepared winter dishes in their ‘Weathervane’ restaurant included (with a generous £60pp allocation of credit on their à la carte menu) and a full Yorkshire cooked breakfast in the morning. Price for ‘You and Me Spa Time’ overnight stay, from £424 per couple.
Verbena spa is a multi-award-winning centre of excellence, which prides itself on the training and development of its spa teams (winner of ‘Best Spa team’ at the Northeast Beauty Industry Awards 2024 added to its clutch of recent awards and accolades).
Verbena is aligned to one of Yorkshire’s finest country hotels, The Feversham Arms. Its resort-style ambience invokes that of a Mediterranean oasis, even though it is centrally located in the beautiful market town of Helmsley. A trip here, even if only for a short time, can transport you, ‘mind, body and soul’, to a faraway destination, where the stresses and strains of everyday life dissolve away, and you emerge restored and refreshed.
Doctor Dan Fagan FRCS on popular myths and misconceptions surrounding back pain
There are lots of popular held beliefs about what the causes of back pain are and how it should be treated. Some of these popular myths are correct, but others can stop people from seeking specialist help when they need it because they’re hoping that the back pain is going to get better or what they’re doing is the correct advice.
There are really two kinds of back pain, one is the dull muscular back pain that everyone gets from time to time – in fact 90% of people su er with it at some point in their lives. This can get quite severe in some cases, but normally lasts only about three months. To treat this, simply a brief initial period of rest is needed, avoiding strenuous activities and regular gym training. People should also take a course of regular antiinflammatories such as ibuprofen (over the counter 400mg) three times a day with food, to avoid getting stomach aches. This in conjunction with some stronger painkillers (co-codamol) if necessary is su cient to settle most of these cases. Gentle physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment also plays a role when people are symptomatic, which can include some gentle manipulation to unload the facets, for example massage and gentle stretching, and once symptoms begin to improve a core and gentle cardio programme can be started. This consists of simple static plank-based exercises or pilates based work, and simple front and side leg raises. Yoga is also good. Sit-ups and abdominal crunches are not recommended as these point-load the discs. Cardio exercise consists of cycling on a cycling machine, use of cross trainer at the gym or swimming. These are all excellent sympathetic exercises for the back.
One of the greatest misconceptions that I hear regularly is that walking long distances is good for severe back pain. This is not the case because the posture of walking loads the facets and is a weight bearing position for the spine. Importantly, the heel strike during the walking motion (or gait cycle) also causes pressure waves to run up through the skeleton and exerts repetitive sharp compressive forces on the discs.
Walking daily distances of up to a mile or two is part of normal activities of daily living, but what I’m talking about here is going for a long walk of 6 to 12 miles over the hills and thinking it will help.
The second kind of back pain is one that is more severe and goes on for longer or refers into the legs. If you have been experiencing severe low back pain for more than three months and it’s not settling, there may be an underlying cause such as a disc protrusion (slipped disc), underlying osteoarthritis, stress fracture or wear and tear in the spine, which is causing pain at one of the motion segments or in the facets (small joints at the back of the spinal column).
Once you’ve done all the right things and the pain is not better, then exercise stops playing a helping role as this clearly is not making the symptoms better. A period of rest may help again, avoiding strenuous gym activities and heavy lifting at work.
At this point I would recommend a specialist consultation soon for an examination and MRI scan to see if there are any underlying problems which are driving the ongoing pain and can be treated.
In my clinic, if we do discover an underlying treatable cause, then I always recommend that at the very least people modify their exercise regime to avoid activities such as weighted squats and deadlifts (which point load the lumbar disc by 5 or 6 times the squatted weight!), plus kettlebell lifts and twists (which
“WALKING LONG DISTANCES IS NOT GOOD FOR SEVERE BACK PAIN”
can tear the fibrous annulus of the disc and promote pain and disc protrusion).
Also avoid running long distances as the regular heel strike causes further inflammation of the disc or degenerative segments. This should be swapped out for using a cross trainer with an elliptical movement, cycling on a cycling machine (excellent cardio exercise and neutral for the spine), or swimming which is non weightbearing and a good body workout.
At this stage I will recommend some form of interventional treatment which will hopefully make you better and then we can get you back to your normal exercise and sporting activity quickly.
If you have any concerns about your exercise programme or your back pain and sciatica, please get in touch with Dr Dan Fagan at spineart.org or by calling 07539 330360
Why Rock Mill Retreat could be the answer to improving your well-being in 2025
“The function of our entire metabolism is dependent on light”
Life organises around light. This theme is explored in various philosophical, scientific, and spiritual contexts, but how much of that natural light do we get round here? Certainly not enough for optimal (or even sub-optimal) functioning of our bodies. And a couple of weeks a year in the south of Spain is not going to fix that...
Theoretical biophisicist Dr Fritz Albert Popp concluded that the function of our entire metabolism is dependent on light. He introduced the concept of biophotons (ultra-weak photon emissions that are involved in cellular communication and regulation) that play a crucial role in maintaining health, and, potentially, even influencing genetic activity. For example, cancer could result from a breakdown in the coherent emission of biophotons. And how does one increase that coherent emission of biophotons in their sun-deprived cells? By consuming good quality, unprocessed foods, and by going outside in the sun (while exposing as much skin surface as possible), or by using photobiomodulation (red-light) therapy in the correct spectrum of light. When light interacts with an electron, it can move the electron to a di erent orbit
around the atom’s nucleus. This process is fundamental to all chemical reactions and, by extension, to life. However, only light with a certain wavelength, which corresponds to the energy needed, can cause this shift. The electron will only change orbits if the light provides exactly the right amount of energy. Other ways to increase the emissions of biophotons are physical exercise, meditation, mindfulness, as well as heat therapy (sauna).
Neurosurgeon Jack Kruse posits that light, particularly red and near-infrared, stimulates the mitochondria’s electron transport chain, leading to improved energy production at the cellular level. This is seen as critical for health optimisation and potentially reversing or mitigating chronic diseases. Likewise, and over ten years ago already, renowned biophysicist Tiina Karu, was suggesting in her work that photobiomodulation should be considered as a drug equivalent.
Photobiomodulation has been used in clinical practice for over 50 years, and its action mechanisms on cellular and molecular levels have been studied for over 40 years. It has been used in treating healing-resistant wounds and ulcers, spinal cord injuries, nervous system injuries, and in pain management. It is used, for instance, in treating Parkinson’s, as it prevents
mitochondrial dysfunction and dopamine loss. It also reduces inflammation, improves bone density, enhances cognitive function, improves sleep, increases energy levels, and boosts collagen, making skin look younger, and the hair and nails grow stronger.
As more and more research in this area comes out, it is simply astounding what photobiomodulation can help with. At the very moment, a team of researchers led by psychologist Francisco Gonzalez-Lima at The University of Texas are recruiting participants for a study in the use of infrared light to treat and reduce symptoms in adults and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They will explore whether infrared light stimulation can improve cognitive and behavioral outcomes for those with ASD by increasing mitochondrial bioenergetics. “Infrared light is a very promising non-invasive treatment for a variety of disorders, and we are only just beginning to explore the possibilities this technology provides,” said Gonzalez-Lima. The researchers have previously shown that the administration of low-level infrared light is a safe and non-invasive procedure which improves cognition and emotion, as well as enhances brain metabolic activity. They are also currently studying the benefits of infrared light stimulation in ongoing research for adults with ADHD and bipolar disorder.
Located just outside of Stoney Middleton, a characterful historic village in the heart of the Peak District, Rock Mill Retreat is both a state-of-the-art sanctuary for health and wellness and a unique accommodation option. The wellness facilities that guests have exclusive access to include medicalgrade photobiomodulation therapy, saunas, photon lights, PEMF mats, and more.
Other facilities include an EMF-shielded king-size bedroom with a grounded bed, fully-equipped kitchen, café, restaurant, meeting space and lounge, children’s playground, barbecue and picnic area, and ample car park (with EV charging points).
World-famous climbing walls and caves are accessible from the doorstep, and the area is rich with walking and hiking paths, surrounded by lush forests, gorgeous rivers, dramatic limestone gritstone edges, expansive moorlands, and the most breathtaking rolling hills.
Find out more at rockmillretreat.co.uk
Live-in Care provides 24/7 ongoing support.
Alcedo Care provide personalised, one to one live-in care for all ages, allowing you to stay in the home you love.
Stay safe in your own home and avoid the stress of change and separation
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Companionship, emotional support, help with medication and / or personal care including household chores
Dementia care and complex care.
Respite care also available
Peace of mind, both for the client and for their family.
Complete one-to-one personal care and attention unrivalled by residential homes
To find out more or for a free, no obligation assessment
How Andrew Port is leading the way when it comes to alleviating issues with hips and knees
For the past 25 years, Consultant Andrew Port has specialised in hip and knee replacements, utilising his skills to restore mobility and alleviate pain. Andrew became a consultant orthopaedic surgeon in 1999, and has been with Woodlands Hospital since it opened in 2002. He studied medicine at Manchester University, and passed his surgical exams with exceptional results, before embarking on the orthopaedic training scheme. Over the years, Andrew has witnessed significant advancements in surgical techniques. Since working with the Mako robot at Woodlands Hospital, he has achieved remarkable results in hip and knee replacements. The robot’s precise 3D imaging and planning capabilities have significantly improved surgical accuracy and reproducibility, enhancing patient satisfaction.
“Using this new technology vastly increases the accuracy of surgery for hip and knee replacements, resulting in potentially more rapid, easier recovery, and greater satisfaction rates,” he says. “The technology combines 3D planning with accurate intra-operative reconstruction of the hip or knee replacement, and patients report less pain, quicker recovery, and improvement of function.”
While the British Orthopaedic Association, along with the Department of Health directive, ‘Getting It Right First Time’ (GIRFT), advocate that surgeons should be performing at least 15 revision joints and partial knees surgeries per year, Andrew performs more than 50 revisions and 40 partial knee replacements every year.
Woodlands is one of only a few hospitals in the region that o ers access to augmented surgical assistance with the Stryker Mako Robotics system, with which Andrew has carried out hundreds of robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement procedures and is one of the biggest users in the region. He is a regional specialist in complex primary and revision surgery, and set up the region-wide standardisation of care in revision joint replacement. Knowing what can go wrong in joint replacement surgery has allowed him to develop his own surgical technique to minimise such errors. With thousands of successful surgeries under his belt, Andrew has transformed the lives of countless individuals, enabling them to regain their mobility and enjoy a better quality of life. His ambition is to ensure equality of access to orthopaedic surgery for everyone in Teesside, North Yorkshire and across the North East, with outstanding outcomes.
circlehealthgroup.co.uk/ consultants/andrew-port
Contact Cheryl Holiday, Private Practice Manager to Andrew Port on 07855-364475, cheryl.holiday@ntlworld.com or cheryl.holliday@nhs.net
chat, tour our state-of-the-art facilities, and connect with others in our community.”
The newly opened Ruby Lodge Care Home in Thirsk hosted its first community co ee morning on Friday 8th November 2024, from 10am to 12 noon. The local community from Thirsk and the surrounding areas were welcomed to join in for a relaxing morning of socialising with residents while enjoying a cup of co ee or tea and freshly baked cakes. These co ee mornings will become a regular monthly event, held on the first Friday of each month from 10am to 12 noon.
Ruby Lodge Care Home is designed to accommodate up to 70 residents, providing a luxurious yet homely environment. The care home o ers person-centred residential and specialist dementia care across three
floors, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk in.
“We’re excited to welcome the community into our home for regular co ee mornings, following the success of our Grand Opening last month, which was supported by the Mayor of Thirsk, Councillor Andrew Trueman, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. After meeting so many locals at the event, we know this is something the community would truly appreciate. Our co ee mornings are designed to o er a warm and supportive space for everyone,” says Home Manager Holly Hunton. Customer Relations Manager Kirsten Idle adds: “We aim to recreate the wonderful atmosphere our Grand Opening created during these monthly gatherings. Whether you are part of the local neighbourhood, a family member, or just interested to see what Ruby Lodge has to o er, these co ee mornings are open to everyone. Feel free to drop by for a
Ruby Lodge is a part of Country Court, which was founded in 1983 by Roshan Bogha and current Chairman, Abdul Kachra, with the opening of their first care home, Beech Lodge in Holbeach, Lincolnshire. The care home’s reputation soon grew, led by kindness, compassion and dignity. A further seven homes were opened by 1990, establishing Country Court as one of the region’s most trusted group of care homes. A combination of nursing skills and a professional, yet homely environment, the model for care continued to expand and today Country Court is both caring for and employing thousands of people across the UK. Through the standard of care and the modern, comfortable homes created for residents, Country Court aspires to provide the kind of care every one of us would wish our loved ones to receive. The group operates 47 care and nursing homes and remains a family-run business to this day, with the company philosophy, “Our family caring for yours”, at the heart of every home.
To arrange a tour of Ruby Lodge Care Home, contact Kirsten Idle, Customer Relations Manager, at 07356 189 494 or via email at kirsten.idle@countrycourtcare.com
Absolutely finds out more about award-winning live-in care now available in Yorkshire
Are you looking for a little extra help to remain comfortable and independent in your own home? With fully regulated CQC Live-In Care from Alcedo Care Group, an experienced and professional carer comes to live with you in your own home, providing round-the-clock personalised care, nursing support and companionship. A real alternative to moving into a residential care setting or nursing home, Live-In Care allows you to maintain your daily routine and lifestyle while benefitting from companionship and emotional support as well as hands-on assistance with personal care and household chores. With
Live-In Care, you are able to continue with the hobbies and social activities that you have always enjoyed, you can choose your own food, mealtimes and bedtimes, and avoid the stress of separation from loved ones, cherished possessions and pets.
And when needed, Alcedo’s highly trained care professionals can support with a range of healthcare needs from complex clinical conditions to dementia, stroke and end-of-life care. All of which results in complete peace of mind for loved ones and the wider family who may not live nearby.
Andy and Jo Boardman, directors and co-founders of Alcedo Care Group, explain: “We understand that choosing care for yourself or a loved one is not an easy decision. When families are faced with the realisation that their family member
or loved one requires full time care and support, the traditional choice would be a residential care home. However, the vast majority of people are now wishing to stay in their own homes, so Live-In Care is fast becoming a preferred choice.”
Your carer will become an integral part of your household, so Alcedo Care Group works hard to match you with the perfect person to suit your needs. As a family-run business, with family values and people at the heart of everything it does, Alcedo takes great pride in the care that it delivers and is committed to enriching lives and supporting independence for each and every one of its clients.
Alcedo Care Group has a wealth of positive feedback from its clients and has been recognised as one of the Top UK Large Homecare Groups in the UK for five years running, such as this from the son of a client: “My mother has Parkinson’s disease and has had live-in carers from Alcedo for over 12 months. Throughout this time the service and commitment from both management and carers have been fantastic. Our family owes Alcedo a huge amount of gratitude for all their help and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone else.”
For further information on Live-In Care, please contact one of the team on 0333 015 0677 who will be pleased to discuss the range of options and packages available to you or visit alcedocare.co.uk
JWhy Merry People wellington boots are just what you need to kick-start 2025
anuary seems to be the time when we realise there is nothing better for the soul than venturing out into the countryside, breathing in the fresh air, walking o that festive excess. But one thing you can count on is terrible British winter weather, so your planning needs to start from the bottom up – and inspiration comes from the other side of the world in Australia.
Launched in 2014, Merry People is now Australia’s highest rated wellington boots. They are 100% waterproof, keeping your feet dry whatever the weather (particularly handy at this time of the year), and a warm neoprene lining (3mm thick) has been tested for subzero weather conditions. They also have added arch-support, making them comfortable for long walks.
“Merry People started as an idea, born out of a practical frustration,” says founder Danielle Pearce. “Growing up on a farm in South Gippsland, Victoria, I was familiar with just how useful gumboots can be, but couldn’t find a pair that bridged the gap between city and country life. I took a pretty crazy leap of faith and set out to create my own boots.”
Merry People has come far in a decade. They look absolutely fantastic, coming in a wide range of colours – from neutrals and pastels to bright bolds – and there’s something for all the family, with a unisex design in a host of sizes and special children’s boots too.
a wide range of colours – from neutrals and pastels to bright bolds – and there’s something for all the family, with a unisex should be your starting point. As Danielle wonderfully sums up: “Like my journey,
So, with that desire to start 2025 o on the right healthy foot, Merry People should be your starting point. As Danielle wonderfully sums up: “Like my journey, Merry People represents finding what makes you feel happy and alive.”
uk.merrypeople.com
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By CARLY GLENDINNING
Carly Glendinning meets Forrest Smith, CEO and co-founder of Kineon, a biotech company revolutionising fitness recovery
Q Why is sports recovery as essential as the training itself?
A Sports recovery is just as important as training because that’s when the body actually gets stronger. Workouts break down muscle fibres, and recovery is what allows them to rebuild, becoming more resilient. Training can also trigger inflammation, central nervous system overload, and injuries. By improving recovery we amplify our outcomes, and without it, we risk burnout and injuries, which can sideline us.
E ective, optimised recovery makes training sustainable.
Q How do lifestyle factors impact recovery?
A Recovery isn’t just about the workout; it’s a full-body experience – sleep, diet, and mental health play massive roles. Sleep is crucial
for repair: muscles recover, cells regenerate, and the brain recharges. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients for healing. And mental wellbeing can’t be overlooked, as high stress can slow recovery. In my experience, addressing these factors together is key to e ective recovery. For many of the world-class athletes we work with, the ‘bottleneck’ for their training isn’t how much work they can do, it is how they manage their stress loads and recovery.
Q How has technology transformed the world of sports recovery?
A Technology is revolutionising sports recovery, providing athletes with tools to enhance healing and performance. For example, red light therapy supports the
body’s natural recovery by penetrating deep into muscles and joints, helping boost ATP production, which powers cell repair. Devices like our MOVE+ Pro combine red and infrared light with advanced LED and laser technology to target these tissues e ectively. Additionally, pairing red light therapy with methods like blood flow restriction (BFR) training and PlateletRich Plasma (PRP) therapy is yielding powerful results, further optimising recovery. With the MOVE+ Pro, athletes now have access to clinical-level recovery tools used by the pros at home, empowering them to take control of their routines and reach peak performance faster.
Kineon MOVE+ Pro, £480 kineon.io
Sofology Leeds have unveiled their cosy trends for the start of 2025, including this look, dubbed 'sculptural style'. Soft furnishings feature embracing, rounded shapes, complemented by graphic outlines in the form of pattern or the bold detailing of a sculptural stool. Perfect, we say, to sink into this January.
Slow is a sofa brand with sustainability to the core. Founder Greig Robinson explains what inspired him to make a di erence
Slow is a sofa brand based in the Yorkshire Dales that is on a mission to be the healthiest, most sustainable furniture brand on the market.
Greig Robinson, founder of Slow, says: “Slow is more than just a furniture brand – it’s a movement against the culture of disposable, fast furniture. Our vision is to shift consumer buying behaviour towards more sustainable and health-conscious practices by o ering furniture that is built to last, without compromising on the well-being of our customers or the planet.” Absolutely sat down with him to find out more.
Q Long before Slow was launched, were you working in the interiors/sofa industry?
A I have a digital product design background, where I’ve supported organisations across various industries in creating, launching and scaling digital products and services.
Q Was there a particular moment that inspired you to make Slow a reality?
A I’d saved up for my first-ever new sofa after moving into my new flat. When it arrived, it looked perfect and completed the room just as I’d imagined. But within six months, the seat collapsed. They sent a replacement, but this time, part of the cushion seam failed. The quality from this well-known high-street brand was shockingly poor – and each failed piece created unnecessary waste. It was frustrating: weeks without a sofa, wasted materials, and the realisation that if this was happening to me, it was likely happening to others too.
Q How big a problem is sustainability in the industry?
A This issue is enormous. Simply put, most sofas today are neither built to last nor designed to be reupholstered. Warehouses are piled high with returned sofas. In many cases, cheaper materials are prioritised over quality, many of which are non-biodegradable and treated with harsh chemicals to meet fire regulations.
Q Did many others buy into your vision?
A I think consumers are becoming more discerning, especially when it comes to the quality and sustainability of the products they bring into their homes. More people are realising that furniture isn’t just a temporary purchase; it’s something that should last and feel good to own over the long term. There’s a growing awareness around the hidden costs of cheaply made, disposable furniture – costs to the environment and to our well-being.
When I share Slow’s philosophy of building with quality, sustainability, and longevity, it resonates with a lot of people who are tired of “throwaway” furniture. They see the value in investing in pieces that are thoughtfully designed, built to last, and made from natural materials.
Q How did you launch the brand?
A Our plan as a brand is to o er a thoughtfully crafted collection of sofas, each inspired by silhouettes that stand the test of time. We don’t chase trends; instead, we focus on designs that feel relevant, season after season. Each piece in our collection is made to be enduring, something that complements a space not just for now, but for years to come.
Q What has the response been like?
A The early responses have been really positive, and many of our customers are aligned with our values of quality, sustainability, and timeless design. They appreciate the craftsmanship and the emphasis on natural materials, and they’re excited about owning a piece that’s designed to last.
Q Where do you start with ensuring what you do is sustainable?
A Firstly, we actively advocate for reupholstery. This is always the most sustainable approach, and it’s a service we o er to our customers. Our sofas are designed and manufactured to be reupholstered time and time again, extending their life significantly. We also pay close attention to where our materials are sourced, ensuring they carry certifications that are the best possible for the environment, such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
Q What natural materials do you use?
A Our sofas are made almost entirely from natural materials, with the exception of the springs. The top fabric is often the only component that may introduce a synthetic element. Otherwise, we use materials such as beech, poplar, natural latex, coconut coir, wool, and cotton throughout our sofas. Each of these elements is chosen for its durability, comfort,
and environmental responsibility, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.
Q How do you aim to make your sofas long lasting?
A It all starts with the frames. We’ve pored over 30 years of cabinet-making expertise into crafting sofa frames built to last a lifetime. Another crucial element is the seat cushion. We use natural latex in our cushions – a far superior material in terms of durability. Put simply, this means our cushions stay plump and look new for much longer, providing lasting comfort and quality that withstands everyday use.
Q What would we find in your Yorkshire Dales workshop?
A A great cup of Yorkshire tea! Along with us, an extensive range of fabrics and a collection of our sofa models. We always recommend getting in touch with the showroom to find out which models we currently have available.
Q Do your surroundings inspire what you do?
A Absolutely. Living and working in such a beautiful part of the UK has only deepened my commitment to sustainability. But, over the years, I’ve seen the e ects of changing weather patterns – wetter summers, milder winters –which are constant reminders of the impact of overconsumption and waste. This inspired me to do my part by building a business that prioritises environmental responsibility. At Slow, we’re committed to creating durable, thoughtfully designed sofas that honour both the beauty of our surroundings and the need to protect our planet for future generations.
Q Which of your designs are proving to be particularly popular?
A Our most popular design is the Croft. It’s a firm favourite – exceptionally comfortable and versatile enough to complement many types of interior spaces.
Q What have you recently launched?
A The Haberside is our newest sofa, now available to view on our Instagram. It originally came from a collaboration with a client, and we loved it so much that we decided to include it in our range.
Q What are your hopes for 2025?
A We’re planning to introduce at least one new sofa to our range, inspired by a classic design. We’re also expanding our network of interior designers who are looking to work with a manufacturer dedicated to creating furniture with a conscious approach to environmental impact.
Find out more by visiting slowsofa.co.uk
Søstrene Grene plans to enter 2025 with further Yorkshire expansion
Popular Danish homewares brand, Søstrene Grene, is set to kick o the new year with an exciting new store opening in Leeds, meaning locals will soon have the chance to explore a world of ‘hygge’ and home inspiration. Søstrene Grene o ers customers a unique shopping experience with a curated selection of home and lifestyle products. The new store will further expand the brand’s UK presence and expansion across Yorkshire, adding to existing stores in York, She eld and Wakefield.
Søstrene Grene has quickly become a go-to destination for UK shoppers looking for stylish yet a ordable home essentials. The brand’s extensive range features kitchenware, furniture, seasonal decor, gifts, and toys, bringing a touch of Scandinavian charm to every space. The upcoming opening will mark the next step in the brand’s rollout of its ‘Retail for the Senses’ store model, o ering customers a chance to explore while enjoying a relaxing, sensory journey. The concept features soft lighting, classical music, and a distinctive labyrinth-style layout, designed to encourage shoppers to slow down and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Mikkel Grene, CEO and co-owner of Søstrene Grene, comments: “2024 was a year of growth and success for Søstrene Grene, and we’re eager to carry that momentum into 2025. The Leeds opening is set to be another exciting step in our UK expansion, and we can’t wait to bring our designs to even more customers.”
Now with over 300 stores in 17 countries, Søstrene Grene is rapidly growing its presence in the UK, with ambitious plans to open 100 stores across the UK by 2030. UK Joint Venture Partner, Jonathan Cooper, who runs Søstrene Grene stores across the North, is also looking forward to his first opening for 2025.
Jonathan says: “We’re thrilled to bring Søstrene Grene to Leeds, building on the fantastic responses we’ve had from customers in our existing Yorkshire stores and beyond. Trinity Leeds is the perfect place for us to continue expanding, and we’re excited to see how the local community embraces the brand.”
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, adds: “We’re excited to expand our o ering here with the arrival of Søstrene Grene, bringing the incredibly popular brand to the city centre for the first time. With its stunning range of Scandi-inspired homeware, toys and accessories, there will be something for everyone. Make sure to keep an eye out for more details about their launch at Trinity Leeds.”
sostrenegrene.com
By PENDLE HARTE
“THE ATKIN AND THYME ETHOS IS TO CREATE PIECES WITH A VINTAGE FEEL”
he Atkin and Thyme team is driven by a passion for helping you turn your house into a home. Its statement furniture collections are handcrafted out of quality materials and are designed to be timeless pieces that will sit in pride of place in your home for many years to come.
All of the furniture pieces are unique to Atkin and Thyme, so you can be sure to get a gorgeous sideboard, bedside table or co ee table that can’t be found anywhere else.
Over the past ten years the brand has introduced timeless collections which include the versatile Calvin Armchair with its classic appeal; the Flute Marble Collection which marries tactile fluted wood with brass details and a stunning marble top; and the Reeves parquet wood dining table which has a stunning cross frame brass base.
Known for their unique approach to design and creation of timeless aesthetics, the brand draws on inspiration from diverse styles, including Japandi influences reflected in the Umi Collection which features paredback designs. The statement marble-e ect concrete Mason Collection exemplifies their ability to craft versatile pieces that seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, showcasing the Atkin and Thyme knack for finding new materials and designs for that statement look.
Showcasing their flair for keeping up
with the newest trends, colour palettes and textures evolve from season to season. The Atkin and Thyme ethos is to create pieces with a vintage feel, with textured materials like fluted wood, characterful marbles and tactile fabrics. Their furniture is designed to add value, interest and character to any home, in a subtle live-able way.
Atkin and Thyme has expanded its o ering throughout the years by introducing a comprehensive collection of garden furniture and accessories, along with a range of made to order and in-stock sofas and loveseats, and a gorgeous collection of handmade rugs.
View the range and more at atkinandthyme.co.uk
For over two decades, Ripon Interiors has been dedicated to crafting stunning interiors that transform houses into homes. Located on Boroughbridge Road in the picturesque town of Ripon, the team has proudly served North Yorkshire with innovative designs and premium installations, ensuring every project reflects each client’s unique tastes and needs.
Ripon Interiors is renowned for its expertise in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and home o ces, o ering a bespoke approach to every design. Recognizing the importance of every space in a home, the team tailors each project to match individual lifestyles, blending craftsmanship with functionality. Whether the preference is for sleek modern aesthetics or the timeless charm of traditional interiors, Ripon Interiors brings visions to life.
A kitchen is more than just a place to cook – it’s where memories are made, conversations flow, and families come together. Ripon Interiors creates kitchens that are as practical as they are beautiful. The curated collection caters to a range of styles, from
cutting-edge contemporary designs with clean lines and innovative features, to warm, classic spaces that exude charm and comfort.
The team partners with leading kitchen brands, including Second Nature, 1909 Kitchens and Stori, to provide the finest materials and finishes. From hand-painted cabinetry to ultra-modern handleless units, there’s a vast array of styles to suit every taste.
Complementing these designs are state-ofthe-art appliances from Bosch, Siemens, Ne , Blanco and Ilve ensuring that every kitchen looks stunning and functions seamlessly.
Ripon Interiors is currently o ering an exciting kitchen promotion (contact them for T&Cs), allowing clients to choose one of two incredible gifts:
• A Ne Slide & Hide Oven and Hob: Featuring a sleek disappearing door and advanced features, this innovative appliance is perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
• A Quooker Fusion Boiling Water Tap in Chrome: Transforming daily routines, this tap provides instant boiling, filtered, and cold water on demand – a gamechanger for any busy kitchen.
This o er is available for a limited time, making it the perfect opportunity to begin a kitchen transformation with Ripon Interiors. Ripon Interiors sets itself apart with a seamless and enjoyable experience from initial consultation to final installation. The beautifully appointed showroom serves as the starting point, where clients can explore designs and materials.
The free expert design service, using the latest 3D technology, allows clients to visualize their new spaces before work begins. Designers collaborate closely to ensure every detail – from cabinetry shades to appliance selection – meets expectations. With exciting new products and trends on the horizon, Ripon Interiors is set to make 2025 an extraordinary year.
The team’s passion for innovation and commitment to quality ensures continued success in inspiring and delighting clients across North Yorkshire and beyond.
Boroughbridge Road, Ripon, HG4 1QW 01765 603502 | riponinteriors.co.uk
Where to position your bed for the perfect slumber during winter (with a touch of Feng Shui)
Did you know that where you position your bed during winter could actually be the key to getting a good night’s sleep?
The ancient practice of Feng Shui, which emphasises harmony between your living space and energy flow, can help you create a more balanced and restful bedroom, especially in winter.
Sleep tech firm Simba has teamed up with Lisa Artis of The Sleep Charity to share expert tips on how to enhance your bedroom’s layout to promote warmth, comfort, and restful slumber during winter – with some Feng Shui tips to invite positive energy (Chi) into your sleep space.
Steer clear of cold draughts
Cold draughts from windows or doors can disrupt sleep, so avoid placing your bed directly in their path. In Feng Shui, positioning your bed in the Command
Position - where you can see the door but are not directly aligned with it – encourages energy flow. A room temperature of 16–19°C is optimal for sleep, but cold spots can disturb your body’s thermal balance.
Stay cosy with a strategic heat source
Feng Shui recommends keeping balance by avoiding direct alignment with heat sources, which can cause overheating and restlessness. Position your bed a comfortable distance from radiators, allowing warmth to spread evenly without making you too hot.
Avoid exterior walls
Exterior walls are often colder. For better insulation and comfort, position your bed against an interior wall to help maintain an optimal sleep environment.
Wake up with natural light
Winter days are short, and we often
wake up in darkness, which can leave us feeling groggy and out of sync. While the temptation to hibernate is strong, getting some early morning light is vital for regulating your sleep-wake cycle and banishing the winter blues. Plus, it helps to improve alertness and reduces symptoms of Seasonal A ective Disorder (SAD).
Create a snug, cocooned feeling
In winter, the desire to feel safe, warm, and cocooned intensifies. Your bedroom should be a place to escape the cold, dark world outside. For an extra comforting sleep environment, think about placing your bed in a corner.
Layer up with rugs
Hardwood and tile floors may look chic, but
in winter they can feel like stepping onto a sheet of ice. Combat the cold underfoot by layering a thick, luxurious rug under or near your bed. Not only will it add an extra layer of warmth, but it also softens the room, making it the perfect place for sleepy feet to land in the morning.
Dim the lights, block the glare
Invest in blackout curtains or blinds. Consider bedside lamps to create a gentle, sleep-friendly atmosphere. A dark room can help regulate melatonin, the hormone responsible for a restful night’s sleep. By aligning your bed placement with Feng Shui principles, you’ll invite a restful, balanced energy that nourishes your body and mind through the coldest months of the year.
GENNADI GRAND RESORT, RHODES Inside we look at UK breaks, but for those still yearning for overseas, Gennadi Grand Resort offers luxury five-star accommodation with the privilege of a private, idyllic beach on the south-eastern coast of Rhodes, where the sun kisses the sand in perfect harmony. The state-ofthe art facilities are surrounded by beautiful gardens and combine luxurious eco-living with a sense of well-being and soul-quenching tranquility. gennadigrandresort.com
Why a staycation in this charming town in County Durham will be one to remember
hether you’re looking for a staycation close to an exciting town or something a little quieter in the countryside, Darlington has got it all. The borough makes the perfect place for a staycation, thanks to its rail links, access to further cities like Durham and Newcastle, and abundance of places to stay, dine and explore.
If you’re looking to stay close to the town centre, it doesn’t get much closer than the beautiful Houndgate Townhouse. This Georgian hotel boasts eight boutique rooms for a truly relaxing stay, plus enjoy fresh, mouth-watering seafood and organic wines in the hotel restaurant, Saltfish. There’s also the stunning Bannatyne Hotel Darlington, where the grandeur and warmth of a historic past meet contemporary style. It provides a fantastic base for exploring the centre. While there’s plenty of action in the centre, maybe you’re looking for a slower paced stay in the countryside instead? For a self-catering stay, look no further than Kip & Nook, a gorgeous glamping experience with
“The 1150 castle o ers modern and stylish rooms with vistas over the Walworth countryside”
containers, a loft and a barn that takes guests completely o -grid. Or if you like your home comforts, take a look at Walworth Castle. This 1150 castle o ers modern and stylish rooms with vistas over the Walworth countryside. It’s ideal for something a bit more unique.
You’re completely spoiled for choice when it comes to dining in Darlington. There are cuisines from around the world, including incredible, award-winning Bangladeshi food at Babul’s, authentic Neapolitan pizza at Stable Hearth, and a huge menu of Greek meze and Spanish tapas at the Old Yard Tapas Bar. There’s also plenty of relaxed options too, including the pubs, Hole In The Wall and The Spotted Dog, or street food in Salt and the Indoor Market.
If it’s something more indulgent and elegant you’re after, you’ll love The Bay Horse in Hurworth. This multi award-winning venue has been featured in the Michelin guide and for very good reason! Their seasonal menus use local produce to o er the most high quality and detailed dishes possible. There’s also The Orangery at Rockli e Hall where you can enjoy a beautiful breakfast, afternoon tea or dinner in a five star setting.
For those on a staycation with children, there’s so much in Darlington to keep them entertained. The Dolphin Centre has swimming, bowling and a soft play area, so it’s a great place to spend a couple of hours.
If your kids are creative and love getting messy, they’ll have a blast at Create & Paint, where they’ll be able to do some pottery painting, decopatch, foam clay or build a bear. Or for kids and teens who love to get a bit competitive, there’s Cluedini, an escape room with three individual rooms to break out of, and Sim King Gaming, a gamer’s paradise with consoles, driving simulators and so much more.
If you’re a staycationer who wants to completely relax, take a look at Rockli e Hall spa. This is the ultimate destination for unwinding with a sumptuous spa garden, thermal rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, an indulgent treatment menu and so much more. Or for fans of the fresh air and exploring, you’ll enjoy a walk by Broken Scar, a visit to Thornton Hall Gardens in the summer, or a look around South Park, a gorgeous, ornate Victorian park in the heart of the borough. One thing that Darlington isn’t short of is history and you can see it across the
borough. Visit Hopetown Darlington, a new railway attraction that shows the area’s links to the birth of the passenger steam railway. You can also see the borough’s Roman history at Piercebridge Roman Fort and you can explore Victorian engineering at Tees Cottage Pumping Station.
Last, but certainly not least, if you want a spot of retail therapy, Darlington is a hot spot for shopping. You can find high street names in the Cornmill Centre, but there’s also a plethora of fantastic independent businesses throughout the centre. Visit Origins for stunning homeware, Renne for jewellery made by a mother and daughter duo, and Bakerman for artisanal baked goods. There’s a whole community of indie traders to discover!
Darlington is incredibly well connected, so no matter where you are, it’s simple to get there. There are regular trains that run directly to the town with plenty of hotels within walking distance or you can drive, with the entire borough being easy to reach on the A1, A66 or A19.
Find out more at enjoydarlington.co.uk
Lindisfarne View, Belford, Northumberland, is a converted Victorian schoolhouse which enjoys unbroken views of the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. This unique retreat is the perfect base for an escape to the coast of Northumberland. With ecclesiastical character and a glorious setting – the encompassing gardens feature a wildflower meadow, children’s play area and a Swedish Hikki wood-fired hot tub – the cottage commands uninterrupted views of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the wild North Sea beyond.
Inside, original timber beams, flagstone floors and arched stone windows are complemented by cosy creature comforts – from the log-burner in the living room to the AGA and co ee machine you’ll find in the kitchen. Nonetheless, it’s the master bedroom that will truly steal your heart, with a cast-iron four-poster bed which faces a beautiful stained glass rose window and is set beneath a vaulted timber ceiling. For days out, head across the causeway to explore the castle and priory on Lindisfarne itself or visit the spectacular beach and castle at Bamburgh. Alternatively, simply stay put and enjoy long lie ins and lazy baths at this restful hideaway. crabtreeandcrabtree.com/ properties/lindisfarne-view
Two businesses o ering up a relaxing staycation to lift those post-Christmas blues
“YORKSHIRE HIDEAWAYS HAVE A COLLECTION OF OVER 150 PROPERTIES”
Make memories to last a lifetime when you holiday with Yorkshire Hideaways. Yorkshire Hideaways have a collection of over 150 holiday properties, perfectly situated for exploring the bustling towns and cities, three National Parks and National Landscapes throughout the county. Whatever kind of holiday you’re planning – a long-weekend getaway, a luxury retreat or somewhere for that big family get-together – Yorkshire Hideaways has something for everyone: cosy cottages, properties with hot tubs, lighthouse keepers’ cottages, properties situated perfectly for walking… Many of their properties are dog friendly too, so your four-legged friend can enjoy the abundance of walks this region has to o er. Yorkshire Hideaways is set in Leyburn with an ever-expanding portfolio. If you have a property that you’d like to let out, they know exactly how to make the most of your home’s potential. Contact them today for a friendly chat.
01969 600 600
yorkshirehideaways.co.uk
QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S COLLEGE
Queen Ethelburga's College has won the Sunday Times Parent Power Top School in the North for Academic Performance for a fourth year in a row after the students achieved 99% A*-B at A-level, 74% Distinction in BTECS, and 87% Grades 7-9 in GCSEs. qe.org/college
Absolutely chats to Liz Edwards about launching Muddy Faces, the great outdoors and the next step for the She eld business
Q Before Muddy Faces, were you involved in education/play in any way?
A My whole career has been focused on the outdoors. Initially more as an outdoor pursuits instructor with young adults, then gradually supporting people working with younger children as a Forest School trainer.
Q Why did you feel the need to launch Muddy Faces?
A I became ill and needed to take a di erent path and when I had been delivering the Forest School training, lots of people asked for help finding their Forest School resources. At the time there were no websites that provided this kit, so I set up the first Forest School Resources shop selling all the kit, but also providing lots of free online information to support children and adults to get outdoors.
Q From day one, what did you want to o er?
A A one-stop website where practitioners and parents could find all they needed. Both resources and information to help them get outside, be more physically active and connect with nature. Experiencing all the health benefits both physical and mental that being active outdoors provides.
Q How would you say Muddy Faces has evolved?
A We have grown from providing just Forest School resources, to a wide range of resources supporting many di erent types of settings in developing their outdoor spaces focused on child led outdoor play and learning. The Outdoor Hub has grown massively with many di erent sections all with free info, ideas, activities and a great events calendar.
More recently we have started working with The Den Kit Company and now provide kits developed specifically for the private market. Prior to this we did have private sales especially during the pandemic when people wanted to get outdoors.
Q In a nutshell, why do you think outdoor play is so important?
A We are experiencing an epidemic of mental and physical ill health. The outdoors provides opportunities to improve health across the board. Being outside, children can be active, communicate, problem solve, laugh and play. Being outside supports Vitamin D and immune systems, sensory development, developing good vision, exposure to natural light helping children’s rhythms and sleep, all whilst breathing in the rich cocktail of organic compounds that nature generously shares, that both soothe and enliven children.
“She eld is the 'Outdoor City' so it was a natural fit for someone like me”
Q What can you tell us about acquiring The Den Kit Company?
A I was so excited when Kay Miller and Jo Jones approached me to explore how Muddy Faces could take the reins of The Den Kit Company. Jo and Kay wanted to retire, but their passion for The Den Kit Company meant they were determined to see it continue in the right hands. No pressure! Our similar aims and ethos made the coming together feel like a natural and comfortable move, and it’s been a pleasure sharing this journey with Kay and Jo. The final decision to take on The Den Kit Company came for me when Imogen Miller, the MD, explained that she wanted to remain in post, forging the way forward for The Den Kit Company and agreed to work for Muddy Faces. Imogen is a tremendous asset who has developed relationships with top retail outlets selling The Den Kit Company products. Imogen also tenaciously ensures the quality of the brand and products are not compromised in any way – making the transition as smooth as possible for The Den Kit Company customers.
This is the first time I have taken on a business and it’s been a tremendous amount of work, far more than I could have imagined. So far, we have been focused on ensuring production is up and running and getting
orders to customers. I would be lying if I said I didn’t have the odd doubt, especially after doing long hours hitting the Christmas deadlines for wholesale sales, but when I look at The Den Kit products they just make me smile and I know all the hard work is worth it! What is even more satisfying is that it’s not just me smiling but also the Muddy Faces sta , who love working on the kits – especially the aromatics of The Potion Making Kit. The icing on the cake (or should I say mud on the mudpie) comes when customers tell us about the children’s smiles.
Q How long have you been based in She eld?
A I came originally to university in 1993-96, left for a short while but soon came back in 2000 and have been here ever since. She eld is the ‘Outdoor City’ so it was a natural fit for someone whose career and personal life is so entwined with the outdoors to end up here. Apart from the outdoors, living in She eld feels more like living in a town than a city. In true Yorkshire style, most people are very friendly and you always bump into someone you know. Finally, I have two boys born and raised in She eld. She eld is home.
muddyfaces.co.uk
The Faculty of Queen Ethelburga’s, one of the two senior schools from Year 10-13 at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, has been awarded the prestigious title of Independent Schools Association – Senior School of the Year. The ISA Awards are held annually, celebrating success in independent education and they recognise the breadth and quality of provision within the sector.
QE Faculty combines academic excellence with the opportunity to also pursue a more vocational and creative approach to studies and aspirations. QE Faculty o ers both A-levels and BTECs giving a diverse and flexible curriculum. This flexibility within the QE Faculty curriculum allows students the time and the opportunity to pursue community action, or to invest increased time in an area of particular talent. A specific example is allowing A-level students performing to a high level in sport
The Faculty of Queen Ethelburga’s takes the win for ISA Senior School of the Year
to have time built into the curriculum, which provides them with structured opportunities to dedicate time to their sport by accessing the incredible Performance Sport Pathway. The impact of this decision, which gives students in Year 12 an additional five hours a week for their sporting development alongside four AS levels, means they have a high level of aspiring athletes within the QE Faculty student cohort.
The importance of providing each student in QE Faculty with a curriculum that suits their interests and talents leads to strong outcomes for the students academically. QE Faculty supports the aspirations and ambitions of all of its students from Oxbridge applications, to professional sport, to entrepreneurship, to performing on the stage. QE Faculty aims to get the best from students by finding an academic pathway that brings out the best in them, in whatever area that may be.
In 2023, within QE Faculty, the BTEC Esports course was launched to Year 10 and Year 12 students as part of QE’s
commitment to o ering modern subjects for industries of the future and to support the diversity of talents within the school.
Sport and new subject innovations are only two examples of how QE Faculty creates space for passion in the curriculum. There is also the Academy of Dramatic Arts (ADA) pathway, supporting students with auditions and improving skills in acting, musical theatre, comedy, stage combat, and a variety of dance styles with extra time dedicated in the school day to do so. Students have continued studying performing arts at the BIMM Institute, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and Regent’s University London. Creative Arts is also another strand of the QE Faculty curriculum and in 2023 received a Gold Artsmark Award, awarded by Arts Council England. The Artsmark assessor commended QE on its rich range of o er in the arts.
To find out more visit qe.org
£584,950 £599,950
ighcli e Farm o ers an idyllic environment and a wealth of opportunity, updated by the current owners with a contemporary feel providing 2,978 sq. ft of accommodation in the main house. The recent addition of a 2-storey extension (1,422 sq. ft) could be incorporated into the main house or completed as a self-contained annexe. There are stabling blocks and paddocks up to 13 acres.
A wonderful detached cottage in Hillam
This property is located in the highly regarded village of Hillam.
A truly beautiful detached cottage, situated in the much in demand village of Hillam, boasting charming period features, spacious accommodation and a stunning long garden.
This beautiful detached cottage exudes charm with its period features and spacious accommodation. Upon entry, a welcoming reception hall features an open fire, stone-tiled floor, staircase, guest WC, and understairs storage. A versatile family room with a log burner leads to a converted basement with a gym and TV room, ideal for private use. The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen/dining room, o ering countrystyle units, a central island, integrated appliances, and a range cooker, complemented by a redbrick feature wall and ample dining space. A utility room with a stable door adds practicality, while the stylish living room boasts a multi-fuel stove, exposed beams, and French doors opening to the garden.
Upstairs, the first-floor landing leads to five well-proportioned bedrooms, including a main bedroom with garden views and an ensuite. A modern house bathroom and versatile single bedroom complete the space.
The property features a front driveway with parking for multiple cars and an electric car charging point. The rear garden o ers privacy and stunning countryside views. Divided into three sections, it includes a south-facing patio, lawn with a playhouse, and an orchard with fruit trees, a climbing frame, and seating overlooking farmland. Perfect for family living and entertaining.
PRICE
£850,000
AGENT
Fine & Country Wetherby 01937 223016
wetherby@fineandcountry.com
Imagine a carefree lifestyle at a pace that suits you. A life devoid of unexpected winter fuel price hikes, where friends and family can visit and stay in the guest suite, and where you’ll never have to clean another external window, mow the lawn or clear leaves from the guttering ever again. A place where your time is your own, to do with as you please. That place is Otium of Stocksbridge, near Sheffield.
There are only a few one and two bedroom apartment suites left to buy at Otium, each with a whole host of benefits and prices ranging from just £160,000 - £300,000. Immediate occupancy is available if desired. Simply pop in or call us to find out more.
Open 10am - 4pm daily for viewings by appointment
Are
Thinking
Feeling
Absolutely Yorkshire sits down with two key members of Crombie Wilkinson Solicitors
DIRECTOR AND HEAD OF FAMILY LAW TEAM
“I understand that relationship breakdown is one of the most stressful things somebody can go through, your world has been turned upside down and you need support and guidance in a clear and concise way,” says Greg. “I pride myself on providing sensible and robust advice at an early stage to try and give a road map to a client so that they can see where we are now and where we need to get to, to conclude matters amicably and cost e ectively.”
Greg has over 10 years experience practising solely in Family Law. He has a keen interest in divorce cases with an agricultural element to them, dealing with inherited farms and land.
Being a member of Resolution, he follows the Resolution Code of Practice, aiming to promote a constructive approach to family issues, minimising conflict where possible. He is also a Resolution accredited Collaborative Family Solicitor o ering an alternative route to resolving relationship breakdown, avoiding back and forth protracted correspondence and working through the issues with a mixture of round table meetings and open discussions. Whilst based at the Crombie Wilkinson
Solicitors Malton o ce, Greg accepts instructions from clients who are based across our region and beyond, including in certain cases individuals who are based abroad. Greg o ers in person appointments, telephone and video conference appointments to suit your needs.
LEGAL
IN COMPANY AND COMMERCIAL LAW
Richard is a legal advisor specialising in Company and Commercial matters and has experience in dealing with the legal demands and requirements of sole traders, partnerships, limited liability partnerships and limited companies.
With close to a decade of experience in the legal profession, Richard has worked for global, national and regional businesses as well as individual business owners to meet a wide range of both simple and complex legal needs. Prior to joining Crombie Wilkinson, Richard focused on working towards the commercial interests of healthcare professionals. He continues to use his experience to advise on all company and commercial matters and focuses on acquisitions, mergers, disposals
and re-structures across the healthcare sector. He has particular experience in advising on the sale and purchase of dental practices across England and Wales.
He says: “Assisting a business owner/ manager/partner/director to structure and run their business in the way that works for them is always a great opportunity to be included in. Knowing I have been an instrumental part in defining and focusing the business for the way it is to be run to benefit all involved is very satisfying.”
crombiewilkinson.co.uk
why everyone is talking about…
The Yorkshire-based sustainable cashmere brand has announced a retail expansion into Selfridges and Harvey Nichols
Loop Cashmere, the Yorkshire knitwear brand that aims to be gentle on the environment and fair to people, has expanded its retail o ering by launching their AW24 collection into designer department stores, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.
Featuring a curated selection in both premium stores, Loop will be available to buy online and in store at Selfridges Oxford Street with styles including their Cashmere Gloves, Beret, Lofty Blanket Scarf and Triangle Scarf, and online and in store at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, Bristol, Birmingham and Edinburgh with their Cashmere Mitts, Gloves, Beanie, Lofty Blanket Scarf amongst other must-have styles available to purchase with prices varying from £70-£225.
Co-founded by Claire Heathcote and Richard Levin in March 2020, who wanted to build a positive, ethical and mindful brand that would improve people’s wellbeing and self-esteem, whilst ensuring the quality was not compromised, Loop has gained fantastic recognition and reputation, as well as a solid base of loyal customers. Four years later, Loop proposes compact collections of carefully curated, expertly crafted and sustainably sourced cashmere pieces that can be worn season after season.
Product & Marketing Director Claire says: “Selfridges and Harvey Nichols are known all over the world, so we are extremely proud and excited to be able to show o our incredible AW24 pieces in these two incredible stores. We have worked so hard to consciously create collections of the highest quality whilst ensuring we are introducing styles that make you feel the best and now
shoppers will be able to experience and interact with these pieces in person.”
All Loop pieces are exclusively designed in-house by their design and technical team with the ambition to fit e ortlessly into our wardrobe and last for many years to come. Their team produces in small batches only to avoid waste and in AW24, more than 50% of their new collection is made of reclaimed cashmere. Made from Grade A quality cashmere, all Loop pieces are sustainable and ethically sourced from Inner Mongolia, from the most accredited and respected yarn suppliers. Loop only use yarn suppliers accredited by the Sustainable Fibre Alliance, The Good Cashmere Standard & The International Co-operation Committee on Animal Welfare.
loopcashmere.co.uk
