Absolutely Yorkshire July 2024

Miracle,youperformed;Enjoying lifeagain;AhugeThankYou forgivingmemylifeback.

Miracle,youperformed;Enjoying lifeagain;AhugeThankYou forgivingmemylifeback.

AlleviatedAllPain;Takeno painkillers;OvertheMoon; ANewWomannow.

AlleviatedAllPain;Takeno painkillers;OvertheMoon; ANewWomannow.

Immeasurablegratitude& sofortunate;FantasticCare oftheHighestCalibre.

Immeasurablegratitude& sofortunate;FantasticCare oftheHighestCalibre.

ExcellentService;Trust entirelyMrKalyan;Caring& Compassionate;Open&Honest.

ExcellentService;Trust entirelyMrKalyan;Caring& Compassionate;Open&Honest.

Highlyrecommend;Masterof hisCraft&VeryProfessional; ProvidesGoodExplanations.

Highlyrecommend;Masterof hisCraft&VeryProfessional; ProvidesGoodExplanations.

*Patient outcome could vary according to their pathologies and other factors.

*Patient outcome could vary according to their pathologies and other factors.

The all-new TEMPUR Ergo™ Smart Base utilises integrated Sleeptracker®-AI sensors (without microphones) to detect you and your partner’s micro-vibrations from snoring. New BASE & MATTRESS RANGES

If snoring is detected, the bed automatically responds, elevating your upper body 12 degrees – a position to help reduce snoring. The TEMPUR Ergo™ Smart Base also provides personalised insights based on your sleep with customised coaching in an easy-to-use app.

Take a refreshing break in the Rodgers Tea Room while you’re shopping. Morning coffee, light lunches, afternoon teas.

GET THE PERFECT BODY

Doctor Nyla is a skin specialist, trusted by TV personalities, well-known celebrity figures and some of Britain’s most familiar faces in the media industry. Founder and Medical Director of Doctor Nyla Medispa Cheshire is a highly respected and much sought after cosmetic Dermatology GP and is considered one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country. Having practised medicine for over 20 years and having personally delivered over 200,000 treatments with truly exceptional results, she has gained the admiration of the industry.

360 BODY CONTOURING

Dr Nyla is a highly sought-after skin and body contouring specialist, who has worked on clients with varying body types, providing them with the results they need to reach their goals. Unlike other fat reduction techniques such as liposuction, Dr Nyla offers treatments including CoolSculpting, Emerald Laser, skin tightening , Morpheus , cellulite removal all of which are totally non-invasive with no downtime. During the treatment, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and let the carefully programmed machine work its magic. A variety of areas can be treated, from the stomach, fl ank and thighs to the arms, back, buttocks and chin.

Please scan QR code to book complimentary consultation

Medispa Cheshire Castlerock House, Wilmslow Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7QL

With its beautiful countryside, pretty villages and historic market towns, Yorkshire is the perfect choice when it comes to choosing a holiday destination here in the UK.

Yorkshire Hideaways is a holiday cottage agency showcasing an ever-growing portfolio of selfcatering properties throughout the county – from cosy cottages full of rural charm to luxury retreats oozing coastal chic.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a dog-friendly break or somewhere for that large family get-together, you are sure to nd that perfect holiday property with us.

EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS

MIKE ROBERTS

SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

CARMEN GRAHAM

DESIGNER

MARIANA SUZUKI

PRODUCTION MANAGER

DANICA BRODIE

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

MELANIE HARDCASTLE

RACHEL STEAD

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER

ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES

JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com

For advertising enquiries please call 07818 690 386 or email: craig@zest-media.com

Website absolutelymagazines.com

Pasture House, Thornton Watlass

ALL-SINGING, ALL-DANCING.

Not to mention all the film, TV, comedy and drama.

We’re a dab hand at bringing out the best in children. Through our creative projects, performance opportunities and our diverse lessons in musical theatre, film and tv, comedy and drama, we give your child the confidence to be themselves.

ENROLLING NOW ACROSS YORKSHIRE

SCAN THE QR CODE TO BOOK YOUR FIRST SESSION FOR FREE

LETTER Editor’s

5

The Great Yorkshire Show

All you need to know about the extravaganza (p53)

ABSOLUTELY’S July issue highlights

1

It is not very often that I write an introduction to an issue of Absolutely Yorkshire, but then again this is no normal issue. The Great Yorkshire Show is once again upon us, so to mark the occasion we have produced a bumper of an issue, with a section devoted to the great and the good of the show (and where you can find Lisa Byrne's regular column – she is a much more entertaining opener than me).

It's testament to the county that, while the show is a behemoth, there is plenty more to entertain and thrill in the month of July. As well as the Showground that hosts GYS, Harrogate has plenty of other ways to spend a summer's day – we round up the best.

And the GYS is not the only event that was made for summer. Festival season well and truly kicks in this month in Yorkshire, so we take a closer look at five you can't miss.

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As always, we have plenty of exclusive interviews – I loved chatting to Grace Olson, for one – and the latest in fashion, beauty and interiors. If you are reading this during the GYS, come and say hello to us. You never know, you may be our next profile piece

2

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Trend

Our pick of the best fabrics for the home (p135)

3Top 10... Things to do in and around Harrogate (p28)

Grace Olson

The author on the healing power of sheep (p24)

Summer Festivals From Leeds to the Baby Band (p34)

Wish LIST

DOUBLE DENIM

The fusion of STAUD's contemporary Americana aesthetic and Wrangler's iconic Western heritage results in a fresh take on denim classics, offering a blend of modern sophistication and timeless style. wrangler.com

BIG BLUE

Villa Neroli is summer in a bottle – transport yourself instantly to the island of Capri with this enchanting vanillabased neroli fragrance, £167. bdkparfums.com

HATS OFF

Part of the Dioriviera capsule, the D-Ocean visor is a new hybrid design, inspired by a sun hat. Cra ed in straw, it's perfect for a season in St Tropez. dior.com

STAR SHOW

The OPEIA Collection is a celestial-inspired range of elegant jewellery creations cra ed from 18ct white gold and platinum. berrysjewellers.co.uk

TWO PIECE

This 18ct White Gold Oval Blue Sapphire and Diamond pendant is an exquisite piece of jewellery that combines the elegance of blue sapphires with the timeless sparkle of diamonds, £4,195. berrysjewellers.co.uk

FLAT OUT

Penelope Chilvers' fl at Chelsea fl oral espadrilles will bring a pop of colour to any outfit. With a sustainably certifi ed cotton upper and a relaxed jute sole, this vintage inspired print looks great with trousers or shorts. penelopechilvers.com

EDITOR’S PICK

NOT FADE AWAY

This button-down corduroy varsity jacket from the Rolling Stones' lifestyle brand features embroidered logo on the chest and RS No. 9 Carnaby St label on the sleeve, plus an embroidered Stones bubble letter tongue logo on the back, £180. rsno9.co.uk

GRACE AND FAVOUR

The Gracie dress, in a Liberty Print Cotton Poplin with the most stunning mix of blues and teals, was inspired by the elegance and glamour of Hollywood stars such as Grace Kelly. Opioneers' dresses are made in the smallest of batches, so once they're gone, they really are gone forever, £430. opioneers.co.uk

BRING ON THE BOHO

This Boho hand fi nished woven rug is from the exquisite Moroccan Beni Ourain style, measuring 160 x 220 cm, £164 inc delivery. coaliving.co.uk

MOMMIE DEAREST

Mother Denim's The Masked Rider is a denim vest with a V-neck, front seams, slit pockets, an angled hem and a narrow fit, made from 100% cotton denim, £371. motherdenim.com

Sunday 14 July 2024 10am - 4pm

The Agenda

Holmfirth Artweek

7-13 JULY, HOLMFIRTH

One of the UK’s largest open art exhibitions, Holmfirth Artweek features over 400 exhibitors and over 2,000 artworks, plus dozens of fringe venues across the local area with thousands more works of art and craft. The majority of the exhibitors are from the area, but large numbers of visitors come from all over the country to view and to buy. It is astounding how much artistic talent there is locally and it is this that makes the event such a success every year.

Carol Douglas

13 July–27 October 2024

YSP CENTRE

Opening in July, Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) presents a new body of original work by York-based painter Carol Douglas, in her largest exhibition to date. Actually I Can includes 51 new paintings of various sizes, all of which will be for sale. Prices range from £325 to £1,430 with all proceeds going direct to the artist and to YSP to support its charitable work. ysp.org.uk

From 25 July ODEON LEEDS

While The Marvels credits scene kicked o the long-awaited cross-pollination of the MCU and X-Men worlds, Deadpool & Wolverine goes all-in, pairing Ryan Reynolds’ smartass sort-of-hero with Hugh Jackman’s rejuvenated Wolverine (don’t worry, timeline-sticklers, it’s set before Logan). Also look out for Jennifer Garner returning as Elektra. odeon.co.uk

ART

THEATRE

MUSIC Live Gigs

Until 15 September

MARSDEN MECHANICS

Marsden Mechanics – a wholly community-owned cultural venue based in the village of Marsden, in Huddersfield – has today announced a new programme of live music. Consisting of five live music events, the programme supports 83 artists performing a myriad of unrepresented genres in the area. From jazz and blues to Irish trad, from immersive soundscapes to reggae and dub, no two nights will be the same. marsdenmechanics.co.uk

North York Moors will be offering exciting activities for all the family this summer

TEVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE

1-6 July

ALHAMBRA THEATRE

The smash-hit and critically acclaimed musical, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, is coming to the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford for one week only. Jamie New is 16 and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight. bradford-theatres.co.uk

This Month’s Must See O

Summer at The Hepworth Wakefield

ON-GOING, THE HEPWORTH WAKEFIELD

pen every day during the summer holidays, The Hepworth Wakefield is the perfect place to get creative. Families can explore and draw their way around the galleries, drop-in to workshops to make their own art inspired by the exhibitions or play in The Hepworth Wakefield Garden. On Wednesday 7 August, The Hepworth Wakefield celebrates National Playday with lots of activities across the galleries. hepworthwakefield.org

here are two new free activities for families visiting the North York Moors National Park this summer, which will keep the little ones busy. Ryedale Folk Museum has created a fun way for families to explore the lovely village of Hutton-le-Hole near Pickering in the North York Moors National Park. Families can pick up a set of free ‘Hutton-to-do’ bingo cards from the Museum’s reception (without paying an admission fee, although the Museum is definitely worth a visit). Family members can then race to complete the tasks on the cards, whether it’s finding a walnut tree to hug, a house inscribed with a date or visiting a shopkeeper and saying in a broad Yorkshire accent: “Now then!” All the shops are supporting the initiative, just in case you wondered. And there is a new playground at Danby Lodge that is set to open in early summer, with a brand-new design that is inclusive of different ages, abilities and confidence levels. It features an eye-catching tower den (hand-woven with willow), a double zip-wire and an accessible slide and basket swing. Using sustainably-sourced UK wood, and designed by creative play company Flights of Fantasy, the structure takes inspiration from the North York Moors’ wildlife and habitats, including the journey of salmon along the River Esk. The work of the National Park’s Rangers is recognised with a pretend Ranger vehicle and a smaller slide structure that gives a nod to the fences and gates of our National Trails and Rights of Way. northyorkmoors.org.uk

PHOTO: JMA PHOTOGRAPHY

“Sheep can help lead to a deep feeling of inner peace”

Animal SOS

Grace Olson has won us over with her hilarious and heartfelt books, not to mention making the lives of many a happier place. Absolutely heads to Leeds to find out more

By MARK KEBBLE

Considering the topics of post-natal depression, bullying and death come up in a conversation with Grace Olson, you’d expect it to be a real downer – but time with the Leeds local is anything but. If you are having a bad day, Absolutely urges you to seek out her work – it will, we guarantee, put a smile on your face. We first came across Grace when we heard about her book, The Yard - How A Horse Healed My Heart. “I was very inspired by James Herriot and his vivid descriptions of the rolling Yorkshire countryside and the hilarious farming characters,” she explains its origins. “It was lockdown and I was unable to do my therapy work, but I wanted to do something that would uplift people. So I wrote one little memoir about a very funny old horse I’d been caring for and posted it in a horsey Facebook group. The response was amazing! Several hundred people loved it and that inspired me to set up my own Facebook page where I wrote a weekly story to entertain people. The page rapidly gathered thousands of

followers and they all wanted a book, so as I had acres of spare time, I wrote The Yard.” How did she feel writing the book? “I loved writing the comedy memories – it made me laugh out loud!” she says with, of course, a laugh. “And I loved reminiscing about the beautiful places in Yorkshire where I had been fortunate to ride out in. But writing my memories about the post-natal depression was painful and it did make me cry a lot; however the parts about the healing epiphanies with the horses were very therapeutic for me.”

The path to the healing magic of animals wasn’t a straight-forward one. “I was very ashamed that I felt so depressed to be a mother,” she says. “So many people are desperate to become parents and have di culty conceiving, so I felt ungrateful and that made me hide my true feelings and pretend that I was really enjoying being a new mum.

“To begin with I only had a cat and she was very healing to spend time with,” Grace continues. “We then got a dog and that was hard work but lovely. It was when I returned to horse riding that I began to feel comforted and empowered to be more of

the person I had been before the depression knocked me down. There is something magical about horses that dissolves your sadness and brings you back into the light.”

Grace was inspired to look into a career that revolved around therapy. “When I qualified as a masseuse, I was full of self-doubt so to avoid actually launching my business, I went on another massage course!” she laughs.

“The teacher taught me a specific treatment – manual lymphatic drainage – for fluid removal and she said ‘Now go out there and get working!’ so I found the courage to begin.

“This treatment enabled me to o er help to post-operative cancer patients who needed fluid-draining therapy and my name grew as a therapist, which brought me more and more people. Over 20 years later I learned equine facilitated coaching and, during a session, one of my pet sheep chose to involve himself and so the magic of sheep therapy began by accident.” It is sheep therapy that caught the eye of Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet, and the show has regularly featured her since. “Sheep are usually a very elusive type of animal that people only see at a distance and they are unable to touch them. To be able to get

close enough to cuddle a sheep is a very unusual experience that truly delights people,” Grace explains their power.

“Sheep are the most adaptable mammal, able to cope with many changes of environment. This means that they are calm more often than they are stressed. They are mainly active in their ‘parasympathetic nervous system’ (PNS) – eating and digesting; conserving their energy. Being near a sheep enables people to access their own PNS leading to a deep feeling of inner peace and a reduction in stress hormones.”

There’s no getting away from the fact that her work will see her encounter death. “I cry – a lot,” she admits. “I create real relationships. It is the greatest honour to serve someone who is on their outward journey.”

Her books, too, continue to spread happiness and inspire many. Merlin finds his Magic was a book for a younger audience with a sheep as the star of the show, and a follow up to The Yard is due out now. “The Farm has many layers,” Grace explains. “Firstly, it’s a beautiful story full of Yorkshire countryside and eccentric characters with a lot of comedy action and dialogue. But it is also a deep dive into my past history of having been a victim of bullying. Once again, the horses come to my rescue and the reader experiences my growth and transformation.” Home life in Leeds has been the perfect backdrop for Grace to write The Farm. “I love nature the most so I am extremely fortunate that every day I get to enjoy walks in the glorious woods with my greyhound and then spend time at our smallholding, near Harewood, which has many wildlife visitors. We have stoats, foxes, Red Kites, cute little rabbits, wild geese and so many fabulous song birds,” she smiles.

“I love Chapel Allerton, which is a short walk from where I live, because it has so many fabulous independent shops such as The Glasshouse Gallery, which has

unique crystal jewellery, and a wonderful independent shop called The Little Bookshop who have supported my books. It also has lots of independent food shops as well as lots of cafes and restaurants. I love our East Coast too. My favourite place to visit is Robin Hood’s Bay for its ever-changing rocky beach full of wonderful rockpools. I also love Goathland because it’s filled with hundreds of free-roaming sheep. It’s sheep heaven!” Absolutely isn’t surprised, but this interview ends with Grace thinking about others. “The vision is at least 15 acres of land in Yorkshire and a lovely farmhouse that can be used as an indoor therapy centre with other practitioners – massage, healing, homeopathy, osteopathy, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, art therapy, dance therapy, music therapy, writing therapy,” she says on her dream to have a therapy farm. “The outdoor therapy will involve my sheep and horses and hopefully some cows in the future. Meditation and yoga in nature – experiencing peace, calm and happiness.

“I want to o er a complete package of real care for people facing terminal illness and their loved ones. I want it to be a charity so that people who can’t a ord it can still come and be immersed in a loving and supportive environment. A place where their loved ones will always be welcome to visit after they have gone.”

ROBIN HOOD'S BAY

THE YARD WAS A HUGE HIT

Things to do in Harrogate

Brimham Rocks

Fancy a walk? Just outside of Harrogate is the natural spectacle of Brimham Rocks, with its giant rock formations, which was created by an immense river 100 million years before the first dinosaurs walked the earth. The rocks, sculpted by 320 million years of movement of entire continents as well as hundreds of thousands of years of ice, rain and wind, have taken on weird and wonderful shapes, and with a little imagination they resemble familiar creatures. Visitors are free to explore the site, spotting the Dancing Bear, the Gorilla, the Eagle and the Turtle, whilst the more nimble can crawl through the Smartie Tube and balance on the Rocking Stones.

The spa town in North Yorkshire has plenty to entertain all the family over the summer. Absolutely picks out our favourite things to see and do

Some of the most iconic rock formations can be viewed only 10 minutes’ walk from the car park, and it takes around four hours to explore all of this fascinating site, with its enduring landscape and carefully managed environment.

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Rudding Park

Located in the luxurious Rudding Park Hotel, the Clocktower Restaurant o ers a refined dining experience in a beautiful setting. The menu features dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, often grown in the hotel’s kitchen garden. The afternoon tea and Sunday lunch are particularly popular, and the setting includes a stunning conservatory and terrace. What’s more, in May Rudding Park opened a new immersive dining experience. Inspired by the number of raised beds in Rudding Park Kitchen Garden, FIFTY TWO will take its cue from ‘mother nature’ with dishes created using the highest quality ingredients cultivated in the kitchen garden or selected from trusted local producers.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr

Managed by the Royal Horticultural Society, this stunning garden o ers 68 acres of beautiful landscapes and plant collections. Highlights include the Streamside Garden, the Kitchen Garden, and the Alpine House. There’s also a Bettys Café Tea Rooms on site for a delightful treat.

Look out for special events throughout the summer. In their third seasonal walk of the year on 4 July, their experienced RHS Curatorial member of sta will guide you around the glorious summer beds with expert knowledge on the planting schemes and plants. Also, every Sunday in July and August, they will bring you a di erent musical performance each week. Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of nature and melody as they bring you an eclectic line-up of talented local artists and bands. Picture yourself in a comfy deckchair, basking in the warm sunlight, with the picturesque Queen Mother’s Lake as your backdrop. It's the ideal setting to unwind, relax, and connect with the rhythm of the moment.

RUDDING PARK

BRIMHAM ROCKS

Turkish Baths and Health Spa

One of the few remaining Turkish baths in the UK, this beautiful and historic facility o ers a unique spa experience. The intricate Moorish design, including mosaic floors, vaulted ceilings, and exotic tiles, enhances the luxurious atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a range of treatments and the traditional Turkish bath ritual. They o er a host of treatments, from 30 minute focus sessions, through to a 90 minute Fit for a Queen or Fit for a King extravaganzas. Then, afterwards, you can immerse yourself in Britain’s most fully restored Victorian Turkish Baths.

Bettys Café Tea Rooms

Talking about Bettys… An iconic institution in Harrogate, Bettys has been serving delicious cakes, pastries, and tea since 1919. Enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea in a beautiful setting, with elegant interiors and exceptional service. They change their menus with the seasons, making the most of the freshest produce and wherever possible sourcing from farmers right here on our doorstep in Yorkshire. You can order a whole host of treats while there, from cakes to chocolates, but the star of the show has to be their afternoon tea. A specially devised menu and an immaculate table-setting, their Bookable Afternoon Tea is a truly unforgettable experience. Don’t risk the chance of missing out, book now and prepare to be impressed (and fully sated).

The Ivy Harrogate

A stylish and elegant restaurant that combines classic British and international dishes in a sophisticated setting. Known for its beautifully presented dishes, the menu includes options like shepherd’s pie, chicken Milanese, and a variety of seasonal specials.

Close to the stunning Valley Gardens, Harrogate Theatre and the Victoria Shopping Centre, the restaurant is perfectly placed for pre-show dinner or post-shopping drinks. High ceilings and large windows give a wonderful feeling of space, while

the Art Deco detail, bronzed antiques and burnt orange banquettes bring a sense of informal luxury and vibrant pops of colour.

Valley Gardens

A beautiful and expansive public garden located in the heart of Harrogate, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants and flowers, a boating lake, a children’s play area, and several historical buildings, including the Sun Pavilion and Colonnades. The Valley Gardens contain a greater number of mineral springs than any other known place – visit the area known as Bogs Field where 36 di erent mineral wells were discovered. The gardens are continually being restored and regenerated with major works spearheaded by the Friends of Valley Gardens, working with Harrogate Borough Council to care for this amazing park. The Valley Gardens Harrogate are open all year round, 24 hours a day, and with a number of di erent areas and garden styles make a relaxing and captivating place to explore.

TURKISH BATHS AND HEALTH SPA

THE IVY HARROGATE

BETTYS CAFÉ TEA ROOMS

Our bespoke made to measure design service redefines the way you shop with our unmatched level of personalisation, craftsmanship and quality. From the moment you enter our doors you will be guided by a skilled stylist who will show you our designs and discuss your requirements. You can select the colour ,fabric and size which can be created from size 4 -28. Your measurements will be taken to ensure your final creation fits to perfection. Welcome to our store.

38 Parliament Street, Harrogate HG1 2RL For appointments: enquiries@juliefitzmaurice.com • 01423 562932 • juliefitzmaurice.com

“The Stray is iconic for its long lines of cherry blossom trees”

The Stray

A large area of open parkland that surrounds the town centre, providing a green oasis for residents and visitors alike. Ideal for a relaxing walk, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

The Stray dates back to 1778 when it was created from the forest of Knaresborough to link Harrogate’s springs together in one area. Since the late 16th century countless springs had been discovered around Harrogate and deemed to have medicinal properties for their high quantities of sulphur, iron and other minerals.

Over the years it has grazed livestock, been an occasional site for the Great Yorkshire Show and Harrogate Flower Shows, been used as allotments and wheat fields during WWII, and at several times been used as an airfield for light aircraft. Today it has been returned to open grassland, and in spring takes on the beautiful colours as first millions of crocuses come into flower, which give way to da odils, and then the long lines of cherry blossom trees and their iconic pink covering.

Royal Pump Room Museum

This museum provides a fascinating insight into Harrogate’s history as a fashionable spa town. It showcases the town’s development and the role of its

famous mineral springs. Exhibits include original spa equipment, Victorian bathing costumes, and information about famous visitors who came to "take the waters". Their current exhibition explores the largely untold stories of Harrogate’s workers: the people who built and maintained the town and those whose service sustained the glowing, international reputation of Harrogate’s baths, pump rooms, shops and hotels.

Harrogate Convention Centre

A major venue for conferences, exhibitions,

and entertainment events. It has played host to music concerts and comedy shows to trade exhibitions and conventions in the past. In July, there are a host of Royal Hall Open Days, so you can take a closer look at the restored Edwardian theatre. Top billing for events, though, falls to Sarah Millican, who brings her Late Bloomer show to the Royal Hall on 10 July. When Sarah was a bairn, she wouldn’t say boo to a goose. Quiet at school and not many friends. Now? NOW she is loud, with good friends, and goose booing all over the shop. In Late Bloomer, Sarah explores how one became the other, plus lots of stu about dinners and lady gardens.

ROYAL PUMP ROOM MUSEUM

THE STRAY

VALLEY GARDENS

The Great Yorkshire Show rightly takes centre stage this issue, but here’s a selection of alternative festivals in Yorkshire worth your time this summer

HIGH 5

Leeds Festival

Leeds Festival, on 21-25 August, have revealed six stellar headliners for 2024: Fred again.., Lana Del Rey, Blink-182, Liam Gallagher, Catfish and the Bottlemen, and Gerry Cinnamon, who are set to top the bill on the most prestigious main stage of all. Fred again..’s extraordinary talent has powered his meteoric rise to become one of the UK’s most-loved artists. Lana Del Rey’s iconic sound has distinguished her as one of the defining artistic voices of her generation. Britpop icon and Rock and Roll demigod Liam Gallagher will mark the 30th anniversary of Oasis’ all-conquering debut Definitely Maybe by performing the album in full at Leeds. Catfish and the Bottlemen are firmly established as one of the most interesting and dynamic bands to come out of the UK in recent years. One of the world’s biggest rock bands, Blink-182 has sold over 50 million albums in a career spanning nearly 30 years. The UK’s biggest independent artist Gerry Cinnamon has enjoyed one of contemporary music’s most extraordinary ascents to stardom. His revealing and honest songs have inspired a huge and devoted audience. leedsfestival.com

Sounds of the City

Manchester’s Sounds of the City again takes a trip to Millennium Square, Leeds, for a number of shows in July.

Global superstar Anne-Marie will play Millennium Square on Thursday 4 July. Since bursting on the scene, Anne-Marie has become a multi-platinum and awardwinning star with a string of chart-busting hits under her belt including 2002, cowritten by Ed Sheeran, FRIENDS and PSYCHO featuring rapper Aitch.

Gearing up for another monumental chapter, British superstar Paloma Faith will play a major headline show at Millennium Square on Sunday 7 July. The outdoor gig will follow the release of the BRITaward winner’s sixth studio album The Glorification of Sadness, which includes the brand new single How You Leave A Man

Following a sold-out and acclaimed arena tour, pop-punk time-travel enthusiasts Busted are set to perform a major headline show at Millennium Square on 11 July. The brand-new show will see the trio – James Bourne, Charlie Simpson and Matt Willis – simultaneously rewind the clock and step into their future with a high octane, maximum fun show of all of their classic hits. millsqleeds.com

Baby Band Music Festival

The Baby Band Music Festival returns to the historic Lotherton Hall, Leeds, for the second year running on Sunday 21 July, featuring an eclectic mix of live bands that will have everyone from toddlers to grandparents tapping their feet.

The festival will be the biggest single day event ever staged at Lotherton Hall, attracting up to 3,000 visitors, and promises an experience that transcends generations – proper music, great bands, and absolutely no nursery rhymes. The Baby Band Music Festival is your passport to a summer’s day filled with the sweet sound of family fun, live music and unforgettable memories. The impressive line-up of events includes music from New York Brass Band, Reciprocal, Undercovered, Manchester Indie Choir and Alligator Gumbo. The event, which runs from 11am-6.30pm, will also include a fabulous artisan market filled with local crafters and makers, and a wide variety of children’s activities from dance workshops, forest school to circus skills sessions. An array of delicious food and drinks will be available from the likes of Philly’s Pizza and 7 Star Flag Street Food as well as crepes, ice cream and the best brownies in Yorkshire. babyband.co.uk

ANNE-MARIE,

PHOTO BY GEORGE MUNCEY

FAMILY FUN AT THE BABY BAND MUSIC FESTIVAL

Ripon Theatre Festival

Ripon Theatre Festival has announced full details of this year’s ever-growing summer event. Looking forward to a third year of events and activities, the festival now stretches to six nights and five days packed with professional touring shows alongside colourful community performances. Taking place from Tuesday 2–Sunday 7 July, the festival promises an extensive and varied programme of drama, family entertainment, dance, circus, comedy, cabaret and spoken word events. Theatre and fun will be popping up in unexpected places and making the most of the city’s attractive venues and open-air spaces. Outdoor theatre fans can enjoy shows at both the stunning Newby Hall and in the lovely gardens of The Old Deanery or spend a leisurely Sunday in Ripon at the Family Day where

puppet shows, street entertainment, music and dance run alongside visits from Wrongsemble and Rhubarb Theatre companies. Festival Saturday (6 July) will see another whole day of pop-up shows, walkabout acts and street performers, kicking o with story-telling for breakfast, Morris dancing and firejuggling. Visiting acts will arrive in the city from across the UK to join regionallybased theatre companies and performers.

The extended programme for 2024 includes a daytime Julie Andrews’ musical tribute, A Spoonful of Julie, a stand-up comedy-meets-storytelling event in the Storehouse Bar, an Opera Brunch at Valentino’s Ristorante and a digital theatre experience from Pilot Theatre Company taking place daily in Ripon Cathedral. RTF 2024 also boasts its first Storyteller-in-Residence with Ilaria Passeri spending time in the city performing and running creative workshops for both adults and children. ripontheatrefestival.org

Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival

Harrogate International Festivals have revealed the full programme for this year’s 21st Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, the world’s most prestigious celebration of crime fiction and thriller writing.

Programme highlights include an all-star line-up of acclaimed writers and global bestsellers including Mick Herron, Louise Candlish, M.W. Craven, James Comey, Lucy Foley, Femi Kayode and Saima Mir joining Special Guest headliners Chris Carter, Jane Casey, Elly Gri ths, Peter James, Erin Kelly, Vaseem Khan, Dorothy Koomson, Shari Lapena, Abir Mukherjee, Liz Nugent and Richard Osman, the crowning of the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year and the much anticipated Critics’ New Blood panel, which showcases four talented debut novelists. This year’s cohort, selected by a panel of the UK’s leading crime fiction critics, are Jonny Sweet, Martta Kaukonen, Claire Coughlan and Colin Walsh.

A festival for everyone, the evening events o er a host of opportunities for readers to engage with their favourite writers and include the hotly contested Late Night Quiz hosted by Val McDermid and Mark Billingham, and the highly anticipated Confessions of a Crime Writer where wellknown authors disclose deliciously dreadful secrets from their past and the audience decide if they should be forgiven, or not. harrogateinternationalfestivals.com

LIZ NUGENT, PHOTO BY RUTH CONNOLLY

LOGY ON FIRE IS ONE STAR AT THE RIPON THEATRE FESTIVAL

will seat over 200 people. The Vinery o ers delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients from across the estate and a menu for all, enjoyed with panoramic views across the High Vinery Garden and Raby Castle beyond.

The historic 18th century Walled Garden has also been remodelled by international garden designer Luciano Giubbilei. He has created a stunning five-acre romantic scheme to complement the Walled Garden’s existing features, including the original sculptural yew hedges.

RISING UP

A new visitor destination for the north has opened its doors

After six years of planning, Raby Castle is ready to open its doors and welcome visitors to The Rising, a 24 acre site featuring the walled garden along with old and new buildings. It is an ambitious scheme, the largest and most significant for generations at the 14th century family home of Lord and Lady Barnard. It will provide a stunning destination for the local community and visitors from far and wide.

Following an extensive renovation of existing historic buildings and the sympathetic addition of two impressive new buildings, all thoughtfully tied together with newly landscaped and meandering walkways designed by landscape architect and garden designer Alistair Baldwin, the site opened its doors on 15 June.

Visitors can expect a brand-new 200-seater restaurant, the Vinery, stylish shopping, the remodelled 18th century

Walled Garden and a new exhibition alongside renovated heritage buildings.

Lord Barnard says: “Historic houses and gardens need to be able to o er an entertaining full day out for their visitors. This includes great service, beautiful surroundings, delicious food and drink and high-quality shopping experiences, events and exhibitions. We’re confident that the scheme will deliver this within a truly breathtaking setting.”

Situated in the heart of The Rising, the newly constructed Round House is a visitors’ reception and features bespoke hand painted illustrations by Edinburgh-based artist Lucy Roscoe. This central hub is where visitors can book tickets, choose dining options, keep up to date on upcoming events and exhibitions and discover all that can be enjoyed at the Park, Gardens, The Plotters’ Forest Woodland Playground and Castle, as well as the wider estate including High Force Waterfall.

Nearby, a newly designed glasshouse, The Vinery, on the footprint of the original structure from where it takes its name,

Lady Barnard adds: “I have loved working with Luciano, he has put his heart and soul into the garden. The structure in the winter gets engulfed by the planting that takes over in the spring, it couldn’t be more romantic and peaceful.”

The historic castle, located near Staindrop, completed the first phase of its redevelopment plans in 2022 with the opening of its woodland adventure playground, The Plotters’ Forest, which has become a firm favourite with families in the area and visitors from further afield. “Our aim was to make Raby a place where all generations can enjoy a day out and I’m thrilled that we will be finally opening our doors to everything Raby Castle has to o er this weekend,” says Lord Barnard.

For further information, visit raby.co.uk

LORD AND LADY BARNARD

Good VALUE

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watches, furniture, ceramics, glass and a wide variety of specialist items. This expertise ensures clients receive accurate and marketrelevant valuations for their possessions.

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Valuation services are central to David Duggleby’s operations. The experienced team o ers meticulous appraisals across various categories, including fine art, jewellery,

The valuation process at David Duggleby begins with a thorough examination of each item. This can be done at one of their four locations, or for larger collections, the team can visit the client for greater ease. Each item is carefully inspected for its condition, provenance and unique attributes, with historical significance, artist or maker’s mark, and distinguishing features all considered to determine value.

David Duggleby also hosts regular valuation events around Yorkshire. To support increasing enquiries at the Harrogate valuation o ce, the team are excited to announce valuation events coming to Pavilions of Harrogate, located in the iconic Great Yorkshire Showground. The first occasion will be a very special reduced-commission event, taking place on Wednesday 24 July, from 10am-2pm.

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in good

TASTE

Skipton has plenty of things going for it, but those in the know point towards its impressive food and drink o erings

Ten years after it was crowned the best place to live in Britain, Skipton has once again been celebrated in The Sunday Times, appearing in its 2024 list of best places to live in the north and northeast. It’s also hailed as one of the happiest places to live in the UK, according to a 2023 Rightmove survey. So what makes this charming little market town such a special place?

On the cusp of the Yorkshire Dales, Skipton’s medieval castle (one of the bestpreserved in Britain), thriving High Street, bustling market, idyllic canal, cobbled streets, friendly folk and excellent transport links all make the town a hotspot for tourists and locals alike. But perhaps its best-kept secret is its extensive and fascinating dining scene – serving as the ultimate playground

for self-proclaimed foodies, connoisseurs and lovers of fine wine and great beer.

Here you’ll find a firm focus on quality, locally sourced ingredients. Savour some of Yorkshire’s finest produce across the town’s eclectic mix of modern and traditional establishments, which cater to every taste bud and budget. Many ingredients are grown, reared or made just a short distance away – you can’t get more local than that!

So whether you’re celebrating a special get-together with friends, whisking your loved one away for a romantic getaway or simply passing through on your way to the Dales, come and indulge in all of the sensational seasonal produce that Skipton has to o er. It’s an adventure for the taste buds – one you certainly won’t replicate anywhere else.

RISE AND DINE

Stroll along Skipton’s award-winning High Street, quaint ginnels and sidestreets and you’ll

be welcomed by the tantalising smell of fresh co ee, cooked pastries and sizzling sandwiches as the town begins to awaken from its slumber. Treat yourself to mouth-watering pancake stacks with toppings galore at The Flip Side Cafe, sample a speciality co ee from one of many independent co ee shops, including Bean Loved – named Yorkshire’s ‘Co ee Shop of the Year’ for a second year running in the Corporate LiveWire Prestige Awards, or grab a warm freshly prepared pastry to go in one of the town’s superior selection of artisan bakeries.

Overall, Skipton o ers some of the best and broadest ranges of locally sourced breakfast and brunch options, from traditional sandwiches and hearty cooked breakfasts to unusual gourmet dishes you’ve never experienced before. With such a varied choice, you’re sure to find the perfect breakfast spot that’ll satisfy any craving.

ALFRESCO AFTERNOONS

What better way to celebrate summer than by savouring outstanding Yorkshire produce alongside a crisp cold beer or fruity cocktail (or two – we won’t judge!) whilst admiring the display of colourful canal boats that glide by? Well, there are plenty of places to do just that. Skipton is teeming with independent cafes and bistros, quintessential tea rooms, quirky cake parlours, popular dining chains, characterful pubs and waterside restaurants, many of which are gifted

“Ingredients are grown, reared or made just a short distance away”

with outdoor seating spaces for lovers of alfresco dining and idyllic views. Collectively, these establishments o er an extensive lunch menu that caters for all budgets and occasions (Phoebe’s Bar & Restaurant is a particularly good choice that’s quickly become a firm favourite with the locals).

And as the sun sets over the canal basin, watched from The Boat House Bar, enjoy some of Yorkshire’s finest ales and take a snap on your phone to capture the memory of a stunning Skipton sunset.

A NIGHT ON THE TOWN

Throughout the evening Skipton’s streets come alive with the buzz of highly acclaimed

FLIPSIDE

PHOEBE'S

ALEXANDERS

dining establishments, lively pubs, craft beer bars and Instagrammable wine, cocktail and gin bars, all opening their doors to those in search of flavoursome food, refreshing drinks and great atmosphere.

The diverse range of pubs and restaurants o er an oasis of flavours from di erent cuisines (including Le Caveau – a French restaurant that won ‘Best Food and Drink’ in the 2023 Skipton Business Awards), giving visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy a culinary tour of the world. If you’re looking for a quieter night in, you’ll be pleased to know many establishments o er takeaway options too.

Fancying a nightcap? Skipton has a deep-rooted connection to some of the area’s favourite locally brewed beers, craft ales and fine wines (there’s even a rum distilled right here in the town!), so it’s no wonder that

“It's no wonder so many connoisseurs flock here in search of the ultimate tipple”

so many connoisseurs flock here in search of the ultimate tipple. It’s one for any beer lover’s bucket list, especially those wanting to enjoy a pint in CAMRA’s 2023 Yorkshire Pub of the Year – The Beer Engine.

Many visitors stay to enjoy the town’s vibrant nightlife and live music. So sit back, relax, grab a glass and soak up the incredible atmosphere that this iconic market town exudes – cheers!

STAY FOR ANOTHER DAY

If you’re not ready to leave (and who could blame you), extend the adventure with a stay in one of Skipton’s plethora of overnight options to suit every preference and

pocket, from traditional B&Bs and luxury apartments, hotels and holiday cottages to something a little more unusual... a weekend canal boat experience, perhaps?

Large groups will love Herriots House: a stunning Victorian manor that sleeps sixteen and welcomes two pets. Or why not take the amazing opportunity to stay in one of Channel 4’s ‘Four in a Bed’ winners?

The Curious Fox restaurant and guest house recently featured on the programme and given the quality of its o ering and convivial hosts, it’s no surprise it came first. Alternatively, happy campers, glampers and keen explorers will find various campsite, shepherd hut and campervan hire options available locally. The town even o ers motorhome parking. So wherever you decide to rest your head, it’s sure to be a great one. When it comes to food and drink, Skipton o ers an experience like no other. So come and taste the best flavours of the season! Whilst you’re here, why not catch a show at the theatre or plan your visit around the town’s various food and drink festivals? Find out what’s on by visiting welcometoskipton.com. Sounds too good to miss, don’t you think?

BEAN LOVED

SKIPTON HIGH STREET

HERRIOTS HOUSE

SWEET Traditions

Exploring the delights of the Pontefract Liquorice Festival

Pontefract’s historic link with liquorice is celebrated each year at the renowned Pontefract Liquorice Festival. This beloved and quirky event returns on Sunday 14 July, promising a day full of fun and excitement. Whether you love or loathe the sweet treat, Pontefract’s proud link to liquorice has made the annual festival a major regional event. The town’s historic connection with liquorice began in the 16th century, thanks to its fertile soil, which provided ideal conditions for the plant’s long roots to flourish. Cut to the modern day and the West Yorkshire town still celebrates its association with this delicacy.

The festival is taking place as part of Wakefield Council’s Our Year 2024, an

exciting 366-day programme of cultural and heritage activity taking place across the Wakefield District. There is something for everyone including the famous specialist food & drink market and non-stop entertainment.

Local sweets manufacturer HARIBO are this year’s festival head sponsor, and you won’t be able to miss them as the event is adding a dose of childlike happiness with the Liquorice Parade – this whimsical parade will feature enchanting performers in their vibrant costumes, inspired by some HARIBO favourites, as well as other liquorice classics.

Music lovers take note: bands and local musicians will be performing to keep visitors’ spirits high while you explore the food & drink market. Families will love the range of free activities and workshops as children can

participate in a variety of craft projects, creating unique souvenirs to take home. Don’t miss the opportunity to head up to Pontefract Castle for their Big Family Picnic, where you can unwind at this scenic historic site. The picnic event will feature performances, games, and storytimes, providing a delightful and relaxing experience for everyone amidst the castle’s picturesque surroundings. For food enthusiasts, the Liquorice Food & Drink Trail is a highlight not to be missed. This culinary journey showcases Pontefract’s exceptional restaurants, bars, and cafes o ering special liquoricethemed creations for the occasion. From innovative cocktails and pastries to savoury dishes infused with the distinctive flavour of liquorice, local businesses pull out all the stops to celebrate the festival.

Staying a while? The area has some wonderful accommodation options. Visitors can luxuriate at Grade II listed The Kings Croft Hotel, enjoy super-cosy glamping at The Lambing Shed, or immerse themselves in history at 400-year-old Rogerthorpe Manor. After all, following a day at the Liquorice Festival, visitors will need somewhere comfortable to sleep o all those gourmet treats.

Head to the festival on Sunday 14 July. Find out more at ouryear24.com/PLF

FUN for ALL

What’s

The historic town of Bishop Auckland in County Durham is becoming a mustvisit destination for art and history lovers thanks to The Auckland Project, a unique collection of heritage attractions, galleries and gardens.

At the heart of the town is Auckland Castle, once the home of the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham and one of the best-preserved bishops’ palaces in Europe. Among the many treasures on display are a series of internationally important paintings by Francisco de Zurbarán, which have hung in the castle for over 250 years.

Auckland Castle sits at the heart of Bishop Auckland, surrounded by landscaped gardens and a 150-acre

historic Deer Park. The Auckland Project has opened three new gardens this year for visitors to explore, including the delightful and recently restored 17th-century Walled Garden.

Auckland Castle is also the inspiration behind a series of new attractions in the town. Inspired by Auckland Castle’s Zurbarán paintings, the award-winning Spanish Gallery is a must-see for art enthusiasts, with one of the UK’s largest collections of 16th and 17th century Spanish artworks outside London, including masterpieces by El Greco, Murillo, Zurbarán and Velázquez.

Across the Market Place, Bishop Auckland’s local history and heritage is celebrated in the Mining Art Gallery, with an intimate and awe-inspiring collection of mining art showcasing the resilience and courage of those who lived and worked in the mines.

The nationally important Faith Museum, The Auckland Project’s newest attraction, opened in October 2023 and takes visitors on a journey through 6,000 years of history, considering the ways faith has shaped lives and communities in Britain throughout history and continues to do so.

This summer, The Auckland Project has a series of events planned to bring the stories of its attractions and galleries to life – see right...

Tickets for all attractions and events can be booked at aucklandproject.org along with The Auckland Project’s Unlimited Pass, which gives unlimited access to the attractions for a whole year.

on in BISHOP AUCKLAND

Sketches and Stories:

Drawing Inspiration from Spanish Art

26 July, 30 August, 27 September, Spanish Gallery, Tickets £18

The Last Cage Down Wednesday to Sunday until 6 October, Mining Art Gallery, included with admission

Summer Fest – Live Music, Theatre and Outdoor Cinema

22 June –20 July

Tickets from £12

Live Monthly Music

17 July and 15 August, Auckland Castle, Spanish Gallery & Mining Art Gallery, included with admission

Photography in the Walled Garden

24 July, Walled Garden, Tickets £35

Printmaking Sessions

31 July, 14 August, 28 August, No 42 Market Place, Tickets £15

Knight School

Wednesday to Sunday, 7 August–18 August, Auckland Castle, Tickets £10 per child

Puppets and Palaces:

Create your own puppet show

29-31 August, Auckland Tower, Free –no booking required

THE WALLED GARDEN

POSSESSING

Last year McLaren celebrated its 60th birthday and, as Absolutely discovers, it all stemmed from one young boy’s racing dream

McLaren, that stalwart of Formula 1 racing and the only manufacturer to have entered and won all three legs of motorsport’s illustrious ‘Triple Crown’, has just celebrated its 60th birthday. With six decades at the very sharpest end of the motorsport food chain under its belt, and a trophy cabinet to show for it, the name has etched itself into not only folklore as one of the UK’s most well-known companies, but a global brand with legions of passionate fans.

It began with a determined young boy. Born in 1937 in Auckland, New Zealand, Bruce McLaren was diagnosed with Perthes disease at a young age, leaving him with one leg shorter than the other, and was told he may never walk again. But, having spent every waking minute of his formative years at his father’s service station and workshop, Bruce was a little kid with a big dream – to one day race cars, just like his father, Les, had done once upon a time. After spending an incredible two years on his back in traction and with his legs in plaster casts, at the age of 15 Bruce and Les McLaren began rebuilding an old Austin 7 which had made its way into the workshop. They had originally planned

to sell the car on, but Bruce convinced his father to instead enter it into the 1952 hillclimb at Muriwai. Due to his father falling ill, young Bruce entered the race himself and, in a surprise to all, won. And with this, an incredible racing career began.

But driving alone wasn’t enough. Bruce had the mind of an engineer and in 1963 formed his own racing team, Bruce McLaren Motor Racing Ltd., with the ambition of building and racing his own cars.

Today, when entering McLaren’s headquarters in Woking, Surrey, you are still greeted by that little red Austin 7, stood on the building’s impressive boulevard of engineering history, right next to a bronze statue of its owner, Bruce McLaren. A little further down, past awe-inspiring cars such as the McLaren F1, the P1 or the new Artura Spider, you will also find an expansive trophy cabinet, housing all of the marque’s souvenirs of success. And there, at the very front, almost overshadowed by its much bigger counterparts, stands a small

DRIVE

golden star on a black base – the first ever McLaren trophy, won by Bruce McLaren at that momentous hillclimb race in Muriwai.

The building housing all of this heritage, the McLaren Technology Centre, has been home to the McLaren brand since 2004, celebrating the 20th anniversary of its o cial opening by Queen Elizabeth II just a couple of months ago. Stood on land that originally housed an ostrich farm, the building was designed by globally renowned British architect Lord Norman Foster, who was originally tasked with

“I FEEL THAT LIFE IS MEASURED IN ACHIEVEMENT”

creating a building that felt like 90% NASA and 10% Disney. Since then, the futuristic looking building has become a topic of mystery and marvel among car enthusiasts. So it comes as no surprise that it has in fact served as a set for multiple award-winning film and TV productions.

The space age facility feels timeless, not two decades old. The suspended timeline the building’s aura creates makes perfect sense though. For a racing team that has six decades of experience on track, McLaren has a road car business that is actually younger than Tesla. It first built a road-car in 1992 with the legendary F1, delivered by a small team of Formula 1 engineers and designers.

But McLaren Automotive – McLaren’s dedicated supercar marque, as we know it today – has only been going since 2010. In that short space time, it has taken those 60 years of on-track experience and innovation to create a supercar business that is already well established, forward-looking and incredibly creative, with a world-leading edge when it comes to lightweight design.

From a bird’s eye perspective, the dramatic building and its lake form a perfect circle, echoing a ying/yang symbol. It’s stunning architecture, but also serves a purpose. The lake contains over 30 million litres of water which is continuously pumped through heat exchangers, helping to cool the buildings and dissipate the heat produced by the Formula 1 wind tunnel. And the greenery surrounding the building captures up to 100 tonnes of carbon every year.

While Bruce McLaren’s life sadly ended much too early in 1970, one cannot help but wonder what he would make of the legacy he left behind. His name, passion and dedication could have died with him – instead they have lived on in racing and road cars alike and can be felt and seen in everything that comes out of Woking to this day. It can all be summed up by one of Bruce’s most wellknown quotes: “I feel that life is measured in achievement, not in years alone.”

cars.mclaren.com

BRUCE MCLAREN

Photo:

JMA

Photography

Great Yorkshire Show

TROPHY EVENT

A craft beer bar, a Battle of the Butchers, Theakston’s Great Yorkshire Inn and Main Ring performances from Forever Tenors and the Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show are all new for the 165th Great Yorkshire Show. This will also be the first time the Show hosts the World Ayrshire Federation Annual Conference when around 100 farmers from countries including Kenya, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and America attend as part of a UK Tour. It’s going to be an event to remember...

The story CONTINUES

Our regular columnist, Lisa Byrne, looks back at the enduring importance of The Great Yorkshire Show to open this very special section

In pride of place in our York home is a framed black and white image of my elderly grandfather Patrick Fleming ‘saving the hay’ at the family farm in Galway, Ireland. I remember visiting as a child, where the farm was a place of fantastical adventure; to roll down the hills or feed the chickens – in total ignorance of the sheer back breaking hard work that goes into maintaining a farm. Very occasionally, my grandfather took a break from his toil to enjoy a short stroll to the village inn where he smoked his pipe and sipped a pint of Guinness while reading The Connaught Telegraph.

But on a rare trip to England back in the 1920s, Patrick went to work at a farm in Pateley Bridge, so there is a very small chance that he may have even attended The Great

Yorkshire Show. Even by then this annual event would have completely transformed from its origins nearly a century earlier. Incredibly, the first Yorkshire Show held at Barrack Yard in Fulford, York in 1838, involved a small riot where police had to use batons to restore order as many visitors tried to force their way in without paying. Due to its huge popularity, the event – which then took place at locations across the county – was branded Great by 1843, with its primary aim to be an annual meeting for the exhibiting of farming stock, implements and the general promotion of agriculture.

From 1951 Hook Oval in Harrogate was the location and its incredible transformation continued. Now, thousands flock to the grounds each year to watch a huge array of breathtaking events ranging from show

jumping to quad bike stunt teams. In 2018, a young farming couple from Huddersfield were married at the show while a year earlier, an army veteran proposed to his girlfriend at the top of the big wheel as a plane flew over with a banner asking her for her hand in marriage! No doubt, farmers from my grandfather’s era would find today’s show completely unrecognisable, with its vast array of food stalls from across the globe and fashion shows where dapper country gents model the latest on trend styles. But at its heart the ethos of the show remains the same – a celebration of the UK’s finest animals, machinery, food and most of all our hardworking farmers and beautiful countryside.

LISA BYRNE

THE QUEEN VISITING THE SHOW IN 1957

GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW 1961

FOUNDERS OF THE YORKSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

farewell FOND

This year’s event marks the last of Charles Mills’ tenure as Show Director. He looks back over nine years in charge and why the farming industry needs a show like this

CHARLES MILLS

Q What are your earliest memories of farming?

A Well, it’s fair to say things were a little di erent. Tractors were smaller, there were far more sta , and everything seemed to involve hard, physical graft! But it was fun because of the people.

Q What have been the biggest changes in the farming industry in your lifetime?

A Technology has come on leaps and bounds for both the better and the worse. I miss the camaraderie of working alongside a great team on the farm, but I don’t miss having to carry 16 stone bags of grain up the stairs and into the grain store.

Q How tough is it for farmers currently?

A I have personally found the last 12 months as tough as I remember, the weather being just one of those challenges.

Q Given the above, how important is the Great Yorkshire Show to the industry?

A Hugely. It’s our shop window where the general public can come and learn about everything to do with farming and the wider countryside. For many who live and work in that countryside, it’s a hugely important opportunity to get away and see those people you otherwise wouldn’t, have a chat and forget about the challenges of the everyday, which has perhaps never been as important.

Q What was the first year that you were involved in the show – pre-Show Director – and what did you make of it then?

A I’m guessing a little as to how long ago it was, but I began as a Council Member and if I’m honest, I wasn’t sure what the Society did other than what I’d

“The same thing excites me about the show since I first visited: everything”

seen as a punter at the Great Yorkshire Show. There’s so much more, from the Countryside Days in the education section to the hugely important Future Farmers.

Q How honoured were you to become Show Director?

A It’s pretty tough to quantify. It’s never something I planned or could have dreamed of doing. I know just how fortunate I’ve been.

Q How do you look back on your first one in 2016?

A I was so nervous, but the team were terrific and those nerves were soon replaced with excitement.

Q What has changed with the show under your stewardship in the years since?

A The obvious one is the move from a three to a four day show, with limited visitor numbers on each day to hopefully ensure visitors have an even better experience. However, hopefully everything the Show does has moved forward from the Food Hall, to the Innovation Zone and incredible sheep dog trials.

Q What exactly are your responsibilities?

A The first is to work alongside the brilliant Great Yorkshire Show team and volunteers. From there it’s anything from hosting Royal visits, to presenting trophies to the winners

of numerous classes and, of course, sampling some of the brilliant Yorkshire food on o er!

Q What are you most excited about with this year’s show?

A I’m a traditionalist at heart. The same thing has excited me about the show every year since I first visited as a little boy in short trousers: everything. As a countryman I love wandering through the cattle lines, listening to the pithy sheep shearing commentary, the ooohs and ahhs of the Cock of the North, totting up the value of the machines I can’t a ord to buy… the list really is one of endless excitement.

Q Will you be emotional on the last day?

A I’m not sure I could have done the role for nine years and come away feeling nothing. However, as it’s something I never expected to get the chance to do, it will be a comforting sense of pride and gratitude.

Q Do you have any regrets looking back over the last nine years?

A Time has flown. I just wish I had more time to step back and really appreciate what I have been involved in.

Q Any tips for Rachel Coates?

A Smile and be yourself.

Q What’s next for you?

A Heck! My family have asked the same question regularly, which I don’t know why they’re possibly asking that… First things first, I need an ankle operation. Once I have that small discomfort out of the way, I will be back enjoying everything the Great Yorkshire Show celebrates in the glorious Yorkshire countryside.

WITH HRH THE PRINCESS ROYAL IN 2018

THE MAIN RING LAST YEAR

STARS of the show

The special guests for this year’s Great Yorkshire Show have been announced and it's quite the line-up

ADAM HENSON

This year’s farming celebrities and influencers have been announced as plans gather pace for the 165th Great Yorkshire Show.

TV presenters Helen Skelton, Adam Henson, Peter Wright from Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet, and Rob and Dave Nicholson, of Cannon Hall Farm (the o cial host farm for Channel 5’s Springtime on the Farm series), will appear on the Vertu Motors GYS Stage, near Grey Gate. The farming celebrities will take part in chat shows at 11am and 2pm before taking part in a meet and greet afterwards with fans. It will be the first time on the Vertu Motors GYS Stage for Helen Skelton, who appeared on Channel 5’s Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure alongside Dan Walker, where she explored the countryside and took on a series of challenging local activities. She also hosted Channel 5’s On The Farm in 2023, bringing the best stories from the farm, and beyond. “I have always been a fan of the Great

Yorkshire Show and have loved visiting with friends and family over the years,” Helen says. “I am very much looking forward to being there this year and sharing some stories with audiences across the day.”

Adam Henson, who will appear on Wednesday, adds: “It’s great to be back at the Great Yorkshire Show, one of my favourite events. I look forward to being on the GYS Stage as well as meeting exhibitors across livestock sections where there are some of the best animals in the UK competing. I can’t wait to be back.”

Peter Wright will appear on the chat shows on Thursday and in the fashion shows on the Friday. He says: “I am absolutely delighted to be back at the Great Yorkshire Show again this year. I’m looking forward to being on the GYS Stage to talk all things Yorkshire Vet on the Thursday, then later in the Garden Show with Martin Fish, and then on Farm to Fashion Show catwalk on the Friday. This really is the highlight of my year – unmissable!”

Rob Nicholson, who will be on the GYS Stage with brother Dave on the Friday, says: “We are really looking forward to being guest speakers at the Great Yorkshire Show. It is an event we whole-heartedly look forward to each year, not just as an opportunity to showcase our animals – of which we are rightly proud – but also for the chance to meet like-minded people interested in this industry to share ideas and support each other. It’s a real honour to be asked to be involved and we really hope we can share some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way.”

The Great Yorkshire Show will also be covered by farming influencers Olly Harrison and Joe Seels, who will broadcast the show to their thousands of YouTube followers. Arable farmer Olly, who is from Liverpool and has over 500,000 followers on social media, will attend on the Tuesday, taking part in the 12noon Farm to Fashion Show at the Sheep Shearing Stage, among other activities.

South Yorkshire Farmer, YouTuber and Tiktoker Joe will attend on the Wednesday, also modelling in the 12noon Farm to Fashion Show. He says: “For me the Great Yorkshire

“IT'S A CHANCE TO MEET LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE TO SHARE IDEAS AND SUPPORT EACH OTHER”

Show is a fantastic showcase of all things farming and country life. I particularly love looking around the tractors and machinery sections, the pedigree cattle are also not to be missed, and our children love the kids activity areas. It really is a full, fun, family day out.”

Throughout the Great Yorkshire Show, there will be two Farm to Fashion shows taking place on the Sheep Shearing Stage at 12noon and 4.30pm every day apart from Friday at 12noon and 3pm. Hosted by radio presenter Nick Hancock, the shows will feature collections from a wide range of both national and regional designers, including a selection of brand partners from British Wool. This will highlight the important role of UK sheep farmers as the starting point for some of the most stylish and environmentally friendly garments seen on catwalks anywhere. Tickets for the 165th Show – from Tuesday 9 July to Friday 12 July – are on sale now and will be in advance only, as visitor numbers are capped at 35,000 a day. Last year’s show sold out a week before.

Tickets: Adults £35, Children £13 and Families £86. See more at greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/ ticket-information

ROB AND DAVE NICHOLSON

PETER WRIGHT

HELEN SKELTON

WARM Welcome

Rachel Coates on being the first female Show Director of the Great Yorkshire Show, following in big footsteps and her ambitions for the future

Q What are your earliest memories of farming?

A I grew up on a smallholding near Skipton and my late father, Robin Addyman, was a livestock auctioneer at Clitheroe mart. I used to go to the market with my dad and help out on the smallholding, so I grew up around farming. It just clicked and I was never comfortable working in an o ce or being inside.

Q How has farming changed in your lifetime?

A It’s a lot more technological and innovative. Farmers have to be much more computer savvy and understand technology. It isn’t just physical work now and I think that is the biggest change.

Q What are the biggest challenges facing the industry?

A From economic pressures to the terrible weather, it has been a very challenging time for the industry. The Great Yorkshire Show is that point in the calendar where we can come together and recalibrate. We look to the Great Yorkshire Show as a place for positivity, to socialise and celebrate as well as compete.

Q How key has the Great Yorkshire Show been to you and your family?

A Very important! The highlight of our year. We’ve brought the children since they were tiny and began competing with our Holsteins. We were delighted to win the supreme dairy champion with a Holstein in 2022, while another Holstein was awarded first prize last year.

Q What did you make of the show the first time you visited?

A When I first came to the show at 18 years old, if you had said then ‘you will be Show Director’, I would have never believed you! I was hooked from that first visit.

Q How has it evolved since then and what does it get very right?

A The Great Yorkshire Show was set up to bring farmers and rural communities together, to both share innovations and meet socially. It is also the bridge between the general public and the farming industry, helping to show where food comes from and why the countryside looks as stunning as it does. I think the show continues to do a terrific job of still doing this.

Q When did you first hear of the opportunity to take over as Show Director?

A Charles Mills announced the opportunity at a council meeting of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, and when I looked at the job spec, I thought I could do that!

Q Why were you keen on the role?

A I am from a farming background, I am on the YAS council and I felt I would love to take on the role at the Great Yorkshire Show. I have the attributes the team were looking for, the passion and the time to commit to the role.

Q How did it feel when you were announced as Show Director?

A I was absolutely ecstatic, a little overwhelmed and I don’t think it’s sunk in yet!

Q Do you feel a degree of responsibility being the first female Show Director?

A I think it’s the same level of responsibility whether you’re male or female. My remit when I take up my new position as Show Director is to ensure that the GYS remains relevant and showcases the best that farming has to o er to the wider public. I feel honoured to be taking on the role.

Q Will it be tough following in Charles Mills’ footsteps?

A Charles has done a terrific job and leaves a very successful legacy. I aim to build on this while bringing my own experiences to the Show to encourage it to evolve.

Q How will you look to encourage younger generations to the show in the future?

A I am really keen to make sure we keep the show relevant to younger generations, and I believe the younger generation is taking a bigger role in farming families now. In previous generations, families would not let go, but the middle generations are keen for their sons and daughters to start having a say in running the family business. The Great Yorkshire Show is not just important for socialising, it is also important to showcase the latest in innovations and providing a platform for debate and support. I am keen to develop this.

Q How will this new role fit in with your day to day life?

A I will still work on the family farm, but in a lesser capacity so I can devote some time to the Show Director’s role.

Absolutely covered the impending opening of Fifty Two in the last issue, but now the food concept has been revealed and it looks to be quite the experience. From the moment guests arrive they will be immersed in the Kitchen Garden. Like a dinner party with friends, there’s no menu and you place your faith in the cooking skills of your host. fiftytworuddingpark.co.uk

WHAT TO DRINK GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

By THE WINE SOCIETY

The Society's Greek White 2023

 £8.95

2023 was a fabulous year for roditis, providing opulent stone-fruit while moschofilero provides rose-hip backing vocals. The result is a more fruit-forward wine filled with peach and grapefruit notes on the refreshing palate.

Rosé d'Anjou GrolleauGamay, Famille Bougrier 2023

 £8.25

This is a delicate, odry Loire rosé that is pale in colour and light as a feather and works with or without food, including the light heat and spice of Asian cuisine.

Zephyr 6 Marlborough Pinot Noir 2022

 £14.50

Marlborough pinot noir is crisper, lighter and more red-fruit driven than pinot from many other regions of New Zealand, and this is a very good example. Bright red-cherry and raspberry on the nose, backed up by a delicate hint of soy and even a touch of fresh ginger.

Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.

The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers. Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com

TASTING

NOTES

Food news and the most exciting openings across Yorkshire

By MARK KEBBLE

Best of the fresh

RESTAURANT BAR & GRILL

The new menu at Restaurant Bar & Grill in Leeds has plenty of stand out dishes. It will showcase a 300g Australian Wagyu steak, and for those looking for unmissable flavours of the ocean, Restaurant Bar & Grill will also have an exclusive fresh fish menu available Friday to Sunday with produce so fresh that it will only be available while stock lasts. Guests can enjoy a seared yellowfin tuna, served with a pistachio crumb.

therestaurantbarandgrill.com

Lively tipple

BETTY BOOZE

Blake Lively has announced the launch of Betty Booze ready-to-drink cocktails in the UK, coming to a shop near you in Yorkshire. Betty Booze is a range of three gourmet sparkling cocktails in a can, made to Blake’s own homemade recipes. Betty Booze is Blake Lively’s second brand to launch in the UK, after the Betty Buzz range of premium adult soft drinks launched in November 2023. Betty Booze is available from Majestic at an RRP of £3 per 355ml can. bettybooze.com

Little pleasures

GINO D’ACAMPO

Italian culture centres around family, with little ones celebrated at every social gathering. This is true of Gino D’Acampo Leeds too, where children are welcome alongside adults and can even enjoy their very own special bambino menu. With all dishes prepared from scratch and using the finest seasonal ingredients, guests can be sure that they and their little ones will be treated to the best taste of summer. ginorestaurants.com

ARTISAN COFFEE CO

Sample a selection of delicious and intriguing beans and blends with Artisan Coffee Co's gi packs and subscription offers. artisancoffeeco.com

CAFE SOLO

Cafe Solo Original is a full-bodied super premium cold brew coffee liqueurs meticulously cra ed in the UK. It's just been awarded United Kingdom Coffee Liqueur Country Winner with a Gold Medal from the World Liqueur Awards 2024. cafesolo.co.uk

NIO

Nio's Revolver is a luxuriously rich mocha cocktail featuring caramel notes of Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey, coffee notes from the aromatic Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur and creamy Bols Creme de Cacao. niococktails.co.uk

FLYING HIGH

SAN CARLO

San Carlo Flying Pizza, the renowned Italian restaurant in Roundhay, Leeds, has reopened its doors following an impressive £2 million refurbishment. This much-anticipated revamp promises to blend the restaurant's rich local heritage with modern sophistication, ensuring it remains a cherished destination. Read more on page 71. sancarlo.co.uk

HOT ONE

HICKORY'S

Following the launch of their two hugely popular sites in Horbury and Huddersfield, the team behind the county’s favourite smokehouse, Hickory’s, have now swung open the doors at their latest restaurant in Adel, Leeds. The Adel restaurant has undergone a major transformation, with a completely reimagined interior and stunning new outdoor areas for guests to enjoy. hickorys.co.uk

HOME Comforts

Acclaimed chef Ruth Hansom spent 12 years working in some of London’s top venues, before returning to North Yorkshire to open her own restaurant. Absolutely visits

By MARK KEBBLE

It’s very rare to meet someone who just knew what career they would eventually follow. The professional footballer or astronaut dreams often dissipate over time – even if you did ignore what the careers advisor said – but no such trouble with Ruth Hansom, who was destined to become one of the country’s leading chefs.

“I’ve always had an interest in eating food –and helping out wherever I could from a very young age,” she says. “When I was around 13 I started growing fruits and vegetables in my Mum’s garden, it soon became my favourite hobby and so I took to watching as many cookery programmes and reading as many food magazines as I could so I was able to showcase the fruits of my labour. Growing my own really taught me to respect the produce, as any chef should. The excitement of giving someone something to eat that you’ve

planted, grown and cooked, and watching them enjoy it gives such great satisfaction.”

A teacher encouraged her to enter Future Chef, a competition for schoolchildren, and she impressed judges so much that she reached the final. “When I reached the final of Future Chef, held at Westminster Kingsway College, I met a plethora of great chefs who were judging. My mind started spinning with all the opportunities, and so when I returned home I applied to study at Westminster and began looking for a flat and part time job.”

So began a journey into London’s culinary scene, and she certainly started o as she meant to go on. She was accepted onto the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Apprenticeship, where she worked at the Ritz London to complete her training, staying at the iconic Mayfair dining destination for five years.

“I look back with great fondness,” she says on that time. “It was a tough kitchen, as you can

“WATCHING SOMEONE ENJOY YOUR COOKING IS SO SATISFYING”

imagine, standards were extremely high. But it taught me so much about classical cookery, camaraderie and making everything in house.”

Ruth’s career progressed just as I was making my way in journalism, working in some of London’s top restaurants as I was writing for a lifestyle magazine in the capital.

I remember the hype when Core by Clare Smyth opened, where Ruth had a stint in the kitchen at, before being mightily impressed by the cooking at Pomonas in Notting Hill, where Ruth landed a head chef role. “Pomonas was entirely di erent for me,” she smiles. “It was the first time that I did something more relaxed, which I really did love. Focusing hugely on flavour, rather than precision plating and fiddly garnishes! That being said, it did make me realise that I do still enjoy that.”

And then came the Covid years. Pomonas closed at the beginning of lockdown and so, like many chefs, Ruth was left without her livelihood. She began making wellingtons, cheese and charcuterie, and delivering them across London and beyond for people to enjoy at home. As lockdown eased, Ruth

RUTH HANSOM

secured the head chef position at The Princess of Shoreditch, which quickly gained accolades including 3 AA Rosettes, inclusion in the Michelin Guide, Top 50 Gastro Newcomer of the Year and number 14 in Square Meals top 100 restaurants in London – but Yorkshire was calling.

“After 12 years in London I finally decided to return closer to home. The food scene in the North is only getting stronger and stronger, in fact a lot of the UK outside of London is expanding its culinary scene with lots of chefs going back to their hometowns,” she explains the move.

“WE WANT TO SUPPORT AND SHOWCASE THE BEST OF LOCAL SUPPLIERS AND PRODUCE”

Her first role back here was a six month residency at the Swinton Estate. “Swinton Estate has produce that’s second to none, and at your fingertips, literally,” Ruth enthuses. “We had deer and game birds roaming not more than 500m outside the kitchen windows, the 20,000 acre estate was home to many pig, cattle, and dairy farmers, and the four acre walled garden managed by Dame Susan was home to fruits and vegetables that would rival any great growers.”

The logical next step, then, was opening her own place. “It’s always been a dream of ours,” she says about hers and her husband’s venture. “We started looking a little more seriously during lockdown, but decided the timing wasn’t right. Moving out of London made it a lot more viable. We really have tried to do everything ourselves: setting up the till system, building the website, sanding tables etc. Sometimes it worked right away, other times we had to go back to the drawing board. There will always be things to do and improve on.”

Hansom Restaurant and Wine Bar opened in February 2024 in Bedale, serving seasonal tasting menus, small plates and exceptionally-curated wine and drinks lists. The early response has been extremely enthusiastic and it’s certainly wonderful to have one of our top chefs opening in the county. “Across both menus, including the drinks list, we want to support and showcase the best of local suppliers and

produce,” Ruth says. “That goes right down to menu holders, made using Swinton Deer Hide from meat used earlier in the year. The tasting menu allows people to come for special occasions and to experience what we are all about. While the wine bar and Sunday roast is for more relaxed occasions and allows us to provide a more regular option for the community.”

Does Ruth have a personal favourite dish on the menu right now? “Our asparagus dish – being so close to Spillman’s Farm – is great. With asparagus having quite a short season it makes it that bit more special when it’s here. I also love our Swaledale lamb dish, new to the menu, using loin and braised shoulder alongside the first of the season heritage tomatoes.”

Looking ahead, Ruth’s ambitions for the restaurant are relatively straightforward. “I really just want to make guests happy,” she says. “Repeat custom is a great sign of this. And I am able to go out and talk to guests often, which means I can really get a good gauge of this too.

“There are a few competitions I would like to enter this year as they are always a great way to learn new skills, but the main focus is really around the restaurant.” For the nearly-winner of Future Chef, perhaps that long overdue trophy recognition will cap o quite the career for Ruth Hansom.

hansomrestaurant.co.uk

“San Carlo Flying Pizza is such an iconic restaurant within the local community”

FAbsolutely explores the £2 million revamp of Leeds’ iconic Flying Pizza

lying Pizza in Roundhay, Leeds, has established itself as an iconic institution, attracting a diverse range of visitors over the years. It stands out as one of the most prestigious restaurants in the region. This year commemorates the 50th anniversary since first opening its doors in 1974, as Adriano’s Flying Pizza.

The San Carlo group has recently invested a substantial £2 million into revamping the restaurant to resemble a slice of Italy. The redesigned interiors take inspiration from the Italian islands, merging concepts from the group’s Alderley Edge location while preserving the authentic charm of the beloved San Carlo Flying Pizza.

Marcello Distefano, CEO at San Carlo, comments: “San Carlo Flying Pizza is such an iconic restaurant within the local community, it was only right we give it the revamp it deserved. We have such a fiercely loyal customer base within the local area and beyond, so the aim of our refurb is to ensure we maintain our status as Leeds' most renowned Italian restaurant as we cater to locals and those who travel from afar to dine with us.”

The summer menu has been carefully crafted to o er guests an Italian summerinspired experience, available at all locations, including Flying Pizza and San Carlo Leeds. Each dish is a blend of pride and passion, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Italy. The summer menu boasts a diverse selection, featuring fresh seafood, succulent meats,

delightful vegetarian options, as well as a variety of pasta and pizza dishes.

Marcello adds: “Our team has dedicated time and e ort to craft a summer menu that o ers our guests an authentic taste of Italy – perfect for enjoying on our terraces. Each dish is a reflection of our pride and passion, showcasing our unique style. By sourcing the freshest seasonal produce directly from Italy, we ensure that our food maintains its quality and consistency. Our summer menu features a variety of options including fish, meat, flavourful vegetarian dishes, pasta, and pizza. Cheers to a delightful dining experience!”

Experience genuine Italian hospitality, renowned from the San Carlo group, by visiting Flying Pizza: open seven days a week.

FLYING PIZZA

60 Street Lane, Roundhay, LS8 2DQ flyingpizza@sancarlo.co.uk | 01132 666501 sancarlo.co.uk

stainless steel rivets will never work loose so that wobbly handles are a thing of the past. The ergonomic handle will help to reduce fatigue in use, enable the pans to nest smartly and take up less cupboard space.

ENGINEERED TO LAST

ProWare Kitchen create cookware without compromise

Investing in a good set of pans is always worthwhile and can ultimately make your life much easier in the kitchen. It’s even better when they’re built to last.

Based in She eld, ProWare Kitchen is a small family business that has been designing and manufacturing kitchenware for decades.

As the market changed, the family found that retailers were seeking to reduce product quality in the hunt for bigger and better margins. In response, the brother and sister team decided to launch their own brand – ProWare Kitchen – which has given them the freedom to create cookware without compromise.

“We pride ourselves on producing beautiful, professional-quality cookware that will last a lifetime,” says director Faye Witherspoon. “We have used our knowledge and technical

expertise to create a range of cookware that we are delighted to use in our own kitchens and to which we are proud to put our name.”

Whether searing, sautéing, or simmering, ProWare pans are beautifully made, hardwearing, versatile and easy to clean and store. The pans are designed to elevate your cooking experience. The two ranges of tri-ply cookware o er unparalleled and even heat distribution throughout base and walls of the pans, increasing responsiveness, minimizing hot spots and ensuring consistent cooking results.

Detailed collaboration with She eldbased designers, engineers and chefs resulted in ProWare’s ergonomic, heatdispersing, practical and stylish handle. Unlike other cookware companies that use aluminium rivets, ProWare use stainless steel rivets to attach the handles, requiring significantly more force to attach. The

ProWare have garnered a cult following among chefs like Paul Foster, Brad Carter, Paul Welburn and Luke French, and you can regularly see their pans popping up in the Masterchef and Great British Menu kitchens. To be trusted by Michelin-starred chefs for the enduring quality of their pans is a source of pride for ProWare. With a stellar track record boasting 500+ 5-star reviews on Trustpilot and an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5, selecting ProWare Kitchen pans for your next purchase is a choice you can make with absolute confidence.

GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW

“We love the GYS because it’s a friendly family show,” says Faye. “We meet customers old and new, and everyone we meet has time to talk about cookware. All the other stallholders pull together to make the show the best it can be. Plus, ProWare co-founder Robert Leach always buys an obscenely large block of cheddar cheese!”

0114 4784784 / proware-kitchen.co.uk

The famous Flying Pizza in Roundhay Leeds has returned.

Now more impressive than ever, following a £2 million refurbishment. We are delighted to reopen our doors and greet you with the same warm Italian hospitality that San Carlo is renowned for.

JOIN US

MEAT & GREET

Why working with local farmers is at the heart of what Booths has to o er

The family-owned, Northern food and drink retailer Booths are proud to announce that all fresh meat sold at the in store Butcher is now sourced exclusively from their Northern heartlands of Lancashire, Cheshire, Yorkshire, and Cumbria – what they like to call Booths Country.

Meat buyer David Simons says: “Booths has always prided itself in the quality of the meat we sell. We pioneered a very successful programme of sourcing regional and seasonal lamb sourcing Herdwick and Salt Marsh lambs from local farmers to o er customers a true taste of the region.

“The warm reception received each season has showed us a clear appetite from our customers for regionally sourced meat,” he adds, “motivating us to work closely with selected farmers to ensure all our fresh meat sold at the in store butcher is sourced on our doorstep, in Booths Country.”

Booths has long held a British only sourcing policy for its fresh meat and has been committed to fully skilled Butcher, Cheesemonger and Delicatessen counters and has its own Butchery Academy to train store butchers. “Working with local farmers enables us to stock seasonal lines across a range of meats. Working directly with farmers to rear animals exclusively for Booths also gives their farms the assurance of a reliable and fair market,” says David. “This truly local supply chain allows Booths to have closer links to our farmers and enables us to better understand how they farm, what breeds suit the landscapes of their farms and how they manage them.”

Farmer Ian Knight says: “The support and respect that Booths shows for local producers sets an example for how to do business. Farmers and retailers need to work cooperatively, sharing insight and best practice, resulting in the best possible produce for their customers. A customer of Booths is a customer of my

farm and I’m very proud of that. It’s a very positive step for both the local farming community, Booths and our customers.”

What is Booths Butcher Training Academy?

Pioneered by Customer Experience

Manager Colin Porter, Booths proudly o er a Butchers Training Academy to their in store colleagues. Almost 40 years ago, Colin started his own Booths journey on the meat and fish counters in their St Annes store, where he began to develop his butchery skills.

Colin identified there was potential to improve the Booths’ butcher counter experience by improving colleagues’ skills, and so the academy was born. You’ll find a butcher inside the Ilkley, Settle and Ripon stores, stocked with fresh meat and freshly prepared meals – along with a colleague who is always happy to help!

booths.co.uk

TASTE OF THE SEA

INGREDIENTS

•1 small onion finely diced

•2 cloves of garlic chopped

•1 charred red pepper skinned and sliced

•1 carrot finely diced

•1/2 bulb of fennel sliced

•1 leek finely diced

•1 stick of celery finely diced

•4 plum tomatoes skinned deseeded and diced

•1tbsp tomato paste

•Small tin of chopped tomatoes

•10 new potatoes, skins removed and cubed

•Pinch of sa ron

•Pinch of salt

•2 sprigs of rosemary chopped

•Small bunch of flat leaf parsley chopped

•Small bunch of tarragon leaves chopped

•2 bay leaves

•1 orange (juice & zest of)

•Olive oil

•1tbsp of butter

•1 bottle of good white wine

•1l of water

•12 mussels

•Large wild sea bass fillet

•2 red mullet filleted

•8 king prawns

•1 large chunk of cod loin

METHOD

1 First make a fish stock from any fish bones, prawn heads and shells, water, glass of white wine, bay leaf and parsley stalks. Simmer for 20 minutes and strain for later. 2 Using a large pan, sweat o the onion and garlic first, then the remaining vegetables with the tomato paste. 3 Add in a glass of white wine, tin of chopped tomatoes, rosemary, bay leaf and orange zest and cook for a couple more minutes. 4 Then pour in the fish stock and simmer for 20 minutes. 5 Meanwhile poach your new potatoes with a pinch of salt and sa ron. 6 Steam the mussels in a splash of white wine and add the juice to the stew pan. 7 Pan roast the fish fillets skin down for 3 minutes, turn over, add a little butter and baste for a couple more minutes. Take o the heat and leave in a warm place until ready to serve. 8 In the same pan fry the prawns for a couple of minutes each side, take o and place with the fish. 9 Drain the potatoes and add to your stew base, finish by adding the tarragon, parsley and a squeeze of orange juice. 10 Build your fish, prawns and mussels (deshelled) in warm bowls and pour over the stew. 11 Recommended to be served with crusty bread, aioli and a generous drizzle of really good olive oil.

fivestarcollection.com theploughscalby.co.uk

MOMENTS

in TIME

Whatever your watch needs – from global traveller to underwater explorer – Rolex has the answer

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 in Oystersteel features mint-green index dial and Oyster braceletModel Ref: M126300-0019

£7,100

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date in 18ct white gold features black dial with large luminescent hour markers, cerachrome bezel in blue and Oyster bracelet

Model Rel: M126619LB-0003

£38,200

Model Ref: M336238-001

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller in 18ct yellow gold features champagne-colour dial and Oysterflex bracelet

£37,450

£12,100

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 28 in Oyestersteel and Everose gold features chocolate, diamond set dial and Jubilee braceletModel Ref: M279171-0003

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34 in Oystersteel features pink index dial and Oyster braceletModel Ref: M124200-0004

£5,000

Ride the wave

Crash into summer with these sea-inspired pieces

By CARLY GLENDINNING

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Berry's 18ct White Gold Diamond Wave Ring, £3,195 berrysjewellers.co.uk

AKAILA REID

18K Yellow Gold Slim Wavy Bangle, £12,610 akailareid.com

JEMMA WYNNE

Anniversary Medium Diamond Wave Hoops in Yellow Gold, £4,180 jemmawynne.com

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Berry's 18ct Rose and White Gold Diamond Entwined Pendant, £2,995 berrysjewellers.co.uk

KAVANT & SHARART

18K White Gold and Blue Sapphire Talay Wave Earrings, £15,350 kavantandsharart.com

REZA

Spirale I Earrings in White Gold and Diamond, £42,595 worldofreza.com

KATKIM

18K Yellow Gold, Diamonds Grande Trace Pave Ring, £5,425 katkimfinejewelry.com

LISTER HORSFALL

18ct White Gold Twist Bangle Set with 0.60ct Diamonds, £2,840 listerhorsfall.co.uk

TEJEN

18k Fairmined Yellow Gold and Diamond Dipped Huggies, £4,800 tejen-collection.com

SHOW STOPPERS

The colourful and innovative world of Italian jewellery brand Nomination

Nomination was founded in the 1980s in Florence, when founder Paolo Gensinian had an idea which would revolutionise his life, as well as the jewellery industry worldwide. Paolo wanted to create innovative modular jewellery for men and women of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds. From this point forward, the road to success was short and well paved.

1. COMPOSABLE

Nomination’s Composable® bracelet is made from interchangeable decorated links so you can personalise your bracelet with letters, star signs, hearts, flowers and gemstones. The simple spring mechanism hidden inside each link lets you add more symbols at any time so your Composable® bracelet is not just another piece of jewellery, it quickly becomes a sentimental keepsake,

a precious reminder of exam success, birthdays, holiday memories, or the trip of a lifetime! And each link reflects the love shared with your family and the fun shared with your friends. Decorated links start at just £20 each; bracelets from £38.

2. SYMBIOSI

The striking Symbiosi Collection with maxi colour-fade stones is one of Nomination’s summer must-haves. These vibrant shades can transform your simple summer dress into a show-stopping outfit. Discover the complete collection in store. Rings and earrings from £39; bracelets from £89; necklaces from £79.

3. COLOURWAVE

Delicate chains with brightly coloured CZ stones are the epitomy of elegance in the Colourwave collection. Don’t miss the gorgeous ear-climber earrings. Rings from £39; earrings from £59; necklaces from £59; bracelets from £52.

“Innovative modular jewellery for men and women of all ages”

NOMINATION

ITALY yorkcharms.co.uk

COLOURWAVE COLLECTION

COLOURWAVE COLLECTION

COMPOSABLE BRACELET

SYMBIOSI COLLECTION

FASHION

RADIATE Elegance

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Step into summer with the dazzling new additions to the Berry’s Verve Collection. Perfectly crafted for a sophisticated and contemporary look, these new pieces blend the warmth of 18ct yellow gold with the cool elegance of 18ct white gold, creating a stunning contrast that enhances the brilliance of the shimmering diamonds. Discover the collection at your nearest Berry’s Boutique or visit berrysjewellers.co.uk

set for the sun

Joe Browns latest collection, available at their Sheffi eld and York stores, will have you looking the part on the beach close to home or further afi eld

JOEBROWNS.CO.UK

“Year-round clothing that will take you from dawn to dusk”

MBEST in CLASS

McNair

Shirts: natural fabrics with unnatural performance, made properly in Yorkshire

cNair are unusual as a performance clothing company – they actually make what they sell.All their shirts, jackets and gilets are handmadein Yorkshire from beautiful, natural materials. McNair turns natural cloth into technical outdoor clothing that retains its look and feel whilst at the same time achieving unnatural levels of performance.

Their unique merino cloth took over a year to develop, but being based in the wool heartlands of Yorkshire, McNair were able to work closely with the spinners, dyers, weavers and finishers in Huddersfield who shared their hundreds of years’ of local manufacturing expertise to help create a world class, performance fabric.

When McNair said they wanted to make the best Mountain Shirt in the world, they really meant it.The spinning, dyeing and finishing is all done within 10 miles of their mill in “Slawit” where they create their shirts.

In addition to the famous merino wool shirts, there are also buttery soft moleskins, beautiful corduroys, sturdy canvases and even tropical weight half Panamas. Their ethos “of nature, not against” has remained unchanged for the last 10 years –to only use natural materials and enhance their weather resistance for the great outdoors without the compromise of plastic or harmful fluorocarbons.

McNair Shirts sell all over the world through their website and their list of notable customers include explorers like Simon Reeves, BBC’s international news editor Jeremy Bowen, farmers such as Adam Henson and Amanda Owen, and in the mountain sports community Olympic medallist, Jenny Jones, andSki Sunday’s Ed Leigh.

The resultis clothing that year-round will take you from dawn todusk in the city, countryside,coastand themountains.

McNair shirts are temperature regulating, naturally breathable, weather resistant, warm, soft and understatedly stylish. A traditionaland principled approachto manufacturing in Britain with one simple aim, to make the best performanceclothing in the world withoutcompromising the earth. Available in men’s, women’s, o -the-peg and made-to-measure.

McNair will be at the Great Yorkshire Show from 8-12 July, Stand 219. You’ll be able to browse and get fitted for a madeto-measure currently available at no extra cost. You can also visit the mill by appointment in Slaithwaite, Huddersfield.

01484 846666

Instagram: @mcnairshirts

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Made properly in Yorkshire

Finest shirts and jackets handmade in Hudders eld from beautiful, natural materials. Men’s, women’s, o -the-peg and made-to-measure currently at no extra cost.

Find us at the Great Yorkshire Show, stand 219. Or available online and by appointment at our showroom.

Something SPECIAL

Joyce Clappison, the founder of Wat’s On in Hull, o ers up her top tips for the Mother of the Bride (or Groom)

Q Is the Mother of the Bride or Groom a key part of your business?

A With over 300 outfits in stock, Special Occasion wear most certainly is, and Mother of the Bride and Groom is our biggest part of that.

Q Let’s start with Mother of the Bride… When it comes to the outfit, what’s the first thing to bear in mind?

A Without a doubt, comfort! Feeling beautiful starts with being comfortable and confident. If you’re not comfortable in your outfit, you won’t feel amazing, and you certainly won’t enjoy the day as much as you should.

Q Should the Mother of the Bride adhere to bridal party colour themes?

A Traditionally, yes, but if a Mum isn’t comfortable in that colour, then no. Most Mums will choose a complementary colour to suit both them and the bridal party. We

tend to divide colours into two groups; sugared almond colours and jewel colours, or pastels and brights. If the bridal party colour is a sugared almond colour, then a Mum in any other of those colours will still complement beautifully. Some Mums will choose to complement the Bride and wear white, ivory, cream or champagne colours. The overall e ect can be amazing!

Q What kind of outfits are popular at Wat’s On for a Mother of the Bride?

A The ‘fit and flare’ style has been the most popular this season, alongside feminine, floaty fabrics. The surge in di erent wedding venues such as barns has definitely played a part in the type of outfit a Mum chooses. Overall, the look of choice is much more relaxed than previous seasons, however the formal, structured look is still popular, and fabulous, for church weddings and stately home settings.

Q How does this di er for the Mother of the Groom?

A It doesn’t, except there are not many Mums of the Groom who will choose an outfit in a traditional bridal colour without the express consent of the Bride. But whether you are Mum of the Bride or Mum of the Groom, you want to look and feel your best for your son or daughter’s most special day, and you deserve to, too.

Q Does this aspect come with a degree of less pressure?

A Not really. Saying that, some Mums of the Groom will feel as though there is less pressure, and it’s usually the Mums who have a daughter too.

Q Are there any real no-gos?

A Every Mum will have a di erent picture in her mind of what her perfect outfit looks like, but rarely will she actually choose that outfit. Because of this, we place great emphasis on Mums trying on di erent styles and fabrics, and imagining themselves getting dressed on the special day, as she will then naturally find what she feels comfortable and confident in. That moment when a Mum looks in the mirror and realises that she looks and feels beautiful is priceless.

watsonfashion.co.uk

SHAMBALLAH ENERGY HEALING

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

CHANTECAILLE

Chantecaille has re-launched their iconic Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer. The elevated all-in-one formula offers extra hydration and skincare benefits with the addition of new botanical ingredients. It's also now cyclic silicone and microplastic-free –a huge achievement in clean beauty. The results? The best version of your skin. chantecaille.co.uk

“We now o er IPL, a new light therapy to enhance tear production, plus a wealth of other treatments, tailored to your exact needs, which dramatically improves the condition,” she continues. “IPL can provide a long-lasting solution for Dry Eye Disease, ensuring your glands function properly. This can help to remedy the cause of dry eyes and relieve any eye pain or uncomfortable vision. Previous treatment for dry eyes has only temporarily alleviated the symptoms, whereas IPL can help the root of the problem.

SIGHT FOR SORE EYES

Revolutionary new treatment is a welcome relief for dry eye su erers

Long term relief from the pain and su ering for those of us with dry eyes is now a reality. There is no known cure for dry eye and many just use eye drops and put up with it, but you don’t have to. A Skipton-based opticians is now o ering a range of advanced procedures and regular eye management, to help relieve the symptoms long-term. Our eyes need to remain lubricated so that when we blink the eyelids replenish the tear film, so our eyes feel comfortable and we see well. But if the tear glands become blocked, our eyes no longer have the right fluid balance and become unstable. This is known as dry eye and for those who su er with it, the pain can be unbearable – many say on a par with angina. Ouch! Dry Eye Disease can be caused by many

factors including our lifestyle, health and age, and like many conditions, it a ects us more as we get older and is particularly common in women post-menopause, contact lens wearers and you are even more susceptible to dry eye after laser surgery.

With so many people su ering with dry eye, award-winning Benjamin Opticians have created a new service which diagnoses the condition and works out the best course of treatment, including the very latest Intense Pulsed Light technology (IPL), which can be e ective for most patients.

“Our newly created Dry Eye Suite houses specialist equipment to identify, monitor and treat your Dry Eye Disease,” says Director Liz Ellis. “At Benjamin Opticians we always strive to o er you the best service with the latest technology and this is a huge step forward in the treatment of this uncomfortable and often painful a iction.

“Everyone is di erent, and we will create a programme that is right for you and provide the best results for long-term comfort and vision. The treatment of intense light pulses only takes a few minutes, over four sessions and the benefits can last from six months up to three years.”

Dry, red or watery eyes could soon be a thing of the past for patients at Benjamin Opticians, many of whom are already feeling the benefit of this advanced treatment.

To find out more contact Liz Ellis at Benjamin Opticians, 23 Newmarket Street, Skipton BD23 2JE, on 01756 792933 or visit benjamin-opticians.co.uk/dry-eye-clinic

“Without

Martin House our lives would be

“It’s very difficult to do the normal things, that normal families do. So to be able to go to Martin House and have all these new facilities will be life-changing for children like Amelia. It will allow us to make more precious memories, at our favourite place.”

To find out how you can support THE BUILD scan the QR code or visit: martinhouse.org.uk/TheBuild

The Qadeer family

ABSOLUTELY ATTENDS

MARIE CURIE LUNCH AT JULIE FITZMAURICE

Absolutely finds out about a special event hosted by Julie Fitzmaurice in aid of MarieCurie

Julie Fitzmaurice recently hosted a special Marie Curie lunch at their store in aid of the wonderful charity. Guests from across the area visited and as we hear below they had a delightful afternoon Rebecca Cundall of Jamboree Entertainment said: “Thank you so much for such a delightful start to my week. I found it so interesting to hear more about the work of Marie Curie, and I greatly enjoyed meeting you and hearing all about Julie Fitzmaurice.

“The whole event was so personal,” she adds, “and I absolutely loved being able to see your wonderfully curated outfits ‘up close’. I’m thrilled with my dress – about to be christened next week in the south of France – and certainly know where to come for future stylish purchases. I have been spreading the word! The lunch, the pretty tables and the whole ambience was just delightful.”

Christine Hamilton Stewart MBE, Marie Curie Vice President and Hospice Patron, was full of praise for Julie Fitzmaurice owner Gini Palm and the event. “Marie Curie hospices and nurses provide support during the darkest days families may experience. The patients we care for have cancer, heart disease, MND, MS and many other conditions. Our nurses work overnight in your home caring for patients as life is ending, with you when there is nobody else. Thank you so much for organising the Marie Curie event.”

juliefitzmaurice.com

MARIE CURIE VOLUNTEER

GINI PALM WITH TAMSIN O’BRIEN (STRAY FERRET), VIRGINIA SHEPHERD, JESS BLACK

SARAH HOUGH AND GUESTS

ELAINE BUTTERFIELD, LYNDA HANLINE, VICTORIA BULLOS, ALEX SAMUELS

FRANCESCA HORSFIELD, CHRISTINE HAMILTON STEWART MBE

MARIE CURIE VICE PRESIDENT AND HOSPICE

PATRON, GINI PALM, REBECCA CUNDALL

We are increasingly spending our private lives in our homes rediscovering how much pleasure it is to spend time with family and friends. A pool is an attractive extension of your living area the ultimate way to enjoy your free time and enhance your lifestyle and health. Choose from a wide range of designs and sizes with a comprehensive package that leaves nothing to be desired. A state-of-the-art product with a quick hassle-free installation. Your pool will not only enrich your family’s life but also increase the value of your home

HEAD START

Neck pain is a common 21st century ailment, but expert spine consultant Dan Fagan says help is at hand

Apain in the neck is no joke. A damaged disc resulting in inflammation around the nerve can lead to further complications, such as tingling, numbness, and even weakness in the arm or hand. And if physiotherapy or chiropractic therapy hasn’t helped you, there’s a very good chance that a simple injection or surgery will.

Expert spine consultant Dan Fagan is one of very few spinal surgeons in Yorkshire and the North East who has a wealth of experience in this type of neck surgery. “I’ve seen many patients with this condition, and surgical outcomes, where physiotherapy hasn’t fixed the problem, are very good,” he says. “Neck pain can a ect your ability to work, to enjoy sports, and just live your daily life. Many patients are choosing to self-pay and be treated privately for things like slipped discs because it’s much quicker, procedures are less invasive, and recovery is much faster.”

Physiotherapy is often the first course of action when someone is experiencing neck pain – most often due to a trapped nerve caused by a slipped disc. When this fails to relieve the problem, the next step might be injections around the root nerve to ascertain what is causing the pain. In 70 per cent of instances, this settles down the inflammation. However, where the pain continues and is having an impact on health and quality of life, an operation may bring the relief needed to get back to a full life without pain.

Dan explains that it is usually the C5 and C6 vertebrae that are a ected, and he specialises in two distinct procedures – disc replacement, and fusion of the vertebrae –which are fully discussed with each patient to find the best course of action for them.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is the traditional procedure where the damaged disc is removed and replaced with a lozenge-shaped cage shaped like the disc, along with some artificial bone graft that, over time, fuses the two vertebrae together.

As technology has moved on, Dan also o ers Total Disc Replacement. In this procedure, rather than doing a fusion of the vertebrae, the disc itself is replaced with an artificial one that mimics the natural disc and helps to protect the rest of the neck from further wear and tear.

In most instances, the procedure takes between one and two hours, with the patient remaining in hospital overnight for observation. After that, they can resume normal life within a couple of weeks, although Dan warns against rushing back to work too quickly.

“Generally, following the operation, people feel so well that they don’t rest long enough,” he says. “But the worst position, post-surgery, is a forward-leaning position. Many of my patients are busy people who want to keep themselves occupied, so I might encourage them to try something new, like learning another language during their recovery period!”

Dan has his own private practice –SpineArt, based in Yarm – and also works from Woodlands Hospital, Darlington, Nu eld Tees Hospital, Stockton, and runs a clinic in Harrogate, seeing patients from across the North East and Yorkshire.

“Although I do get referrals, many of my patients have either been told that they need a disc replacement, or have researched it themselves, but are struggling to get anything done. I can o er a further opinion, and can arrange the surgery for them, if that is what is going to help them,” he explains.

If you would like to arrange a consultation, please contact Dan Fagan’s secretary, Beverley Johnston, on 07539 330360 or email secretary@spineart.org. Read more at www.spineart.org

DAN FAGAN

INTERIORS

SUN, SHADE & SHELTER

CARIBBEAN BLINDS

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JOURNEY

HANNAH AND MATT CONNELLAN FOUNDERS OF REVIVAL BY DESIGN STUDIO

The

story

of

Revival by Design, from Australia to Howden:

Absolutely meets cofounders Hannah and Matt Connellan

Q The Revival by Design Studio in Howden is founded on your joint expertise in interior design and project management. We know though that your journey started on the other side of the world, did you both meet in Australia, or did your story start sooner?

HANNAH Wow, way before! A blind date in Huddersfield if you can believe that, Matt was 18, I was 20. We were together nine years I think, before moving out to Australia. We certainly had to know one another before travelling around remote locations in Australia, living together on the road with very little human interaction at times can put a strain on any relationship. I think that’s why we work together so well now, we know each other inside out.

Q How key was your time in Australia?

HANNAH Invaluable! We experienced so much, we have been extremely lucky. We fortunately had the means to travel to Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, New Zealand, and Hong Kong, as well as a few other places, visiting and staying in some exceptional places, all were a huge inspiration for us and it certainly is reflected in some of our designs. The way Australians live is very di erent to how we live in the UK, mainly because of the weather, but you can use some of the design styles and ideas. Their floor plans are a big inspiration; they are very di erent to a standard new home floor plan here. Australians have a very relaxed lifestyle and that’s reflected in their personalities as well as their homes. We certainly have elements of that – it rubbed o on us in our nine years there. The Singaporeans do design so well, everything is so considered and perfectly executed, there is such a high standard to everything they do. Their hotels, restaurants and even their train network are immaculate. Indonesians have a more rustic approach, which is so appealing, making it homely and so welcoming.

Q Why did you want to move back to Yorkshire in 2018?

MATT We get asked that so much – normally when it’s raining and people think we are mad for moving back here! I guess we had just come to a natural end in Australia, it was only ever meant to be a few months travelling, but that turned into nine years. We loved it, still love it, but Yorkshire is home.

HANNAH As Matt said, we just felt it was time, as much as I miss Australia sometimes, especially this winter, it never felt like home. I grew up in the countryside; I missed the green fields, four distinct seasons and the wildlife. Australia has these things I know, but it’s not the same. I also wanted to be a little closer to my family; I think as you get older your priorities change.

Q What inspired the launch of Revival by Design?

HANNAH Well, we were keen to resurrect the interior design business I had in Australia, which was on a smaller scale than what we o er now, because I ran it on my own. We always talked about how nice it would be to work together, knowing that our skill sets would be the perfect match, but in Australia Matt was running a large fitout company and earning far more than he would have been working in the business with me, and at the time we wanted to travel and see places, so it was just too much of a good thing to give up.

MATT When we came back to the UK, the first thing we did was look for premises for Hannah to establish her design showroom

RE-IMAGINED BALKHOLME POWDER ROOM FEATURING THE LONDON BASIN COMPANY

BALKHOLME FAMILY BATHROOM

and I went to work for my old fitout company on a freelance basis, to earn some money to support us whilst she got going. The aim was always to move from retail into homes, where we could o er our interior design service, but also undertake the project from end to end, managing the finishing trades and organising everything – in doing that we could make sure Hannah’s design vision was achieved. When the pandemic hit, there wasn’t much call for fitting out restaurants and bars and so I joined Hannah in the business full time and we pushed the end to end projects – a few local clients gave us a chance and we haven’t looked back.

Q Today, what services do you o er?

HANNAH We specialise in turn-key or end-to-end interior design, whether that be one room or a whole house. We take care of everything – the interior design, sourcing everything including bespoke items, managing any trades needed and carrying out the fitout, dressing the spaces to completion with accessories etc. So once we have finished, the room(s) are complete and ready to use. We rarely just o er individual pieces, suggestions on paint or fabrics, or design only. We prefer to deliver the whole job, so that the design is as we intend. With design only or part design part client design we

truly feel you just can’t deliver the best possible outcome and value for your clients.

MATT Also, if our client is carrying out a new build, an extension or renovation and has a build team, we can work with them from scratch, carrying out the full interior design, including architectural design (space plans, floor plans, electrical and plumbing plans, lighting design) and document that for the build team to work to. We will then take care of the furniture and furnishings.

Q Can you give us 2-3 examples of recent Yorkshire projects that really highlight what you do?

MATT The largest so far was a 6-bedroom Grade II listed Georgian family home in Beverley, a year-long project that we completed in 2022. We designed it all, top to bottom, worked with our client’s builder; project managed it, furnished it throughout and got it ready for them to literally move into. Another fabulous project was a pool house we worked on with a returning client – we’ve had the pleasure of working with them on numerous projects. Constructed in their garden, we helped with everything from bathrooms designs, to changing rooms, bedrooms, lighting designs, floor finishes, doors and hardware, right through to an entertaining space with

bespoke bar and dining, full kitchen and large lounge area. It’s not every day you get to be involved in a project like that!

A project we have literally just completed was for clients that have become very good friends in Howden. They’d bought a large new build property and were struggling to finish it, to the point that they didn’t use some of the rooms, weren’t sure they would keep it and would maybe move. We o ered to help and have just completed a full top to bottom project for them, working with some existing furniture and furnishings, but providing a whole new colour scheme throughout, a new casual lounge for entertaining friends, a TV/cinema room in a previously unused lounge space and giving them a games room with a wow factor.

Q Do you think there is a typical Revival by Design style?

HANNAH This is a question we get asked a lot, and I’m still working on how best to answer it! One thing I can say is that we are not trend driven, we design homes to be lived in and enjoyed, homes where you are happy kicking o your shoes and sitting on a sofa – to be enjoyed and embraced, not a worry that you might flatten the cushions or mark the cream boucle!

We create functional spaces that flow and work together to create a harmonious liveable design through the use of colour, texture and pattern. We like layered and curated design, spaces and homes that really portray who lives there. We want the space to be a direct reflection of our clients and the building they live in, whether that be country living, city apartment or period home. By carefully listening to what our clients say, taking the time to understand their likes and dislikes, walking through the home/ building to understand what style might work best, we use that knowledge to create something unique to them. Walking into a room that feels like it could belong to anyone is certainly not how we design.

revivalbydesign.co.uk

THE GRADE II LISTED PROPERTY IN BEVERLEY

COLOUR DRENCHED WAPLINGTON GAMES ROOM

DREAM to REALITY

Bringing your creative ideas to life with the interior design experts at Furnish & Fettle

Creating your dream home is a journey that extends far beyond just picking out furniture and paint colours. It’s about bringing your ideas to life in a way that feels authentic to you, and your property. While many people think that a DIY approach to their interior design will save them money, this may in fact be a false economy.

When you choose to work with an interior design company, you’re not just hiring decorators or suppliers of furnishings –you’re enlisting partners who will help you to translate your vision and bring it to life for every step of your journey, so it’s important to make sure that you choose the right one.

At Furnish & Fettle they start with a complimentary discovery appointment with your designer who takes the time to get to know you and to really listen to what you want, from your preferred colour palette to your lifestyle needs. Once they understand the scale of your project, they can suggest the best

way to proceed, whether that is with one of their standard design packages or something which is more bespoke to your needs.

Following a visit to your home, your interior designer then gets to work creating a concept for you. They use their extensive knowledge of design and the exclusive products available to bring your vision to life. Initially a scheme is presented to you and once your design concept is confirmed, further down the line their installations team make it happen. But it is not just about making things pretty – it is about making them work. With their in-house team of installation experts and their trusted trade partners, Furnish & Fettle can ensure that your space not only looks great, but also serves your practical needs. Whether it’s avoiding furniture that’s too bulky for your space or selecting the right lighting fixtures to create the desired ambiance, this expertise can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

Furthermore, their interior design team are well-versed in the latest technological advancements, such as automated window dressings, and can help you seamlessly

integrate them into your design scheme. Imagine being able to control the amount of natural light in your room with just the touch of a button or scheduling your blinds to open and close automatically while you are away on holiday. Smart technologies ensure that your space is not only stylish, but also technologically advanced, which adds value to your property.

Large scale projects in your own home can be extremely stressful and overwhelming to manage. One of the key benefits of working with a full-service design company is the seamless coordination of the entire process. Rather than having to juggle multiple contractors and schedules yourself, they take care of it all for you, so you can just look forward to seeing the fabulous, finished results.

Do you have a project on the horizon?

Don’t wait any longer – get in touch to book your complimentary discovery appointment to start turning your dreams into reality. It might just be the best decision you make for your home.

furnishandfettle.co.uk

Kit Kemp’s new fabrics take inspiration from the New Forest National Park with colours and patterns drawn from nature

Words PEARL BOYD

FRUITS FOREST of the

Continuing with Kit Kemp’s tradition of finding inspiration in her favourite places (past collections have namechecked London, New York and the Caribbean), the designer’s newest collection of fabrics is inspired by the New Forest. The National Park in the south of England is a magical place, says Kit, and one that’s very close to her heart. “It’s the most beautiful and historic place, full of walking and riding trails, ancient trees and heathland – it was the perfect atmosphere to bring up my children,” says Kit. All that rich natural beauty translated easily to the new designs, which she describes as “sophisticated, with a crafted, country feel”.

Kit is a prominent figure in the design world, best known for her innovative and eclectic approach to interior design. She has made a significant impact on the hospitality industry through her role as co-owner and design director of Firmdale Hotels, the boutique hotel group that she founded with her husband Tim Kemp.

Kit’s style is distinguished by its vibrant use of colour, pattern, and texture, seamlessly blending traditional and modern elements. Her designs often feature a mix of her own textile designs with unique artworks, making each space distinctly personal and characterful. Kit is also noted for her attention to detail and the bespoke, artisanal quality of the interiors she creates.

In addition to her hotel projects, Kit has authored several books on interior design, sharing her insights and approach to creating inviting and dynamic spaces. She has also collaborated on collections with international fabric and wallpaper designers, bringing her unique aesthetic to a wider range of home decors. Kit’s work has earned her numerous accolades in the design community, confirming her status as a visionary in contemporary interior design.

Highlights of the new collection for Annie Selke feature natural motifs and names like ‘Rufus’, ‘Deer Leap’, ‘Dawn Chorus’, and ‘Miss Mu et’ drawn from the historic references, personal memories (and ponies) that inspired them, include bold and colourful handmade wool and cotton rugs, and an array of decorative pillows featuring hand appliqué, embroidery and cutwork. All the pieces showcase the vibrant personality, energetic patterns and heirloom-quality durability that both Kit Kemp and Annie Selke are known for. “A fabulous, brightly coloured wool rug brings a room to life,” says Kit – and this collection is colourful, captivating, and really fun. It’s sophisticated country aesthetic will certainly bring your rooms to life.

kitkemp.com

SHOWCASE YOUR KITCHEN

DISCOVER THE FINEST QUALITY RANGE COOKERS AND REFRIGERATION APPLIANCES

dedicatedAGAdisplays,withallcurrentmodels,colourrangesandspecialistAGACookshop.Ourexpert staffcandemonstratetheworkingsofthisrenowned cooker,andshowwhyanAGAismorethanjusta cooker.AsRangeCookerSpecialistsourshowroomis filledwithleadingcookerbrandssuchasWolf, Lacanche,Steel,RangemasterandFalco RangeCookersareourlatestadditionforthisSpring. Wealsohaveaselectionofrefrigerationdisplaysfrom leadingbrandsSubZero,SteelandKitchenAid

Since1931ourfamilybusiness,est.1888,has suppliedandinstalledAGACookersinhomes throughouttheNorthEastandYorkshire. Wealsosupplyawidevarietyofhighqualityrange cookerandrefrigerationbrandsforallkitchenstyles andsizes.ANorthEastcompanyyoucantrust,our teamarededicatedtoprovidingyouthebestadvice, priceandse appliancesforyourkitchen.BasedinGateshead, justofftheA1,ourmagnificentshowroomhas

dedicatedAGAdisplays,withallcurrentmodels,colourrangesandspecialistAGACookshop.Ourexpert staffcandemonstratetheworkingsofthisrenowned cooker,andshowwhyanAGAismorethanjusta cooker.AsRangeCookerSpecialistsourshowroomis filledwithleadingcookerbrandssuchasWolf, Lacanche,Steel,RangemasterandFalcon.ESSE ngeCookersareourlatestadditionforthisSpring. Wealsohaveaselectionofrefrigerationdisplaysfrom leadingbrandsSubZero,SteelandKitchenAid

The superior Range Cookers and Refrigeration products available at Walter Dix & Co are seriously cool and seriously capable. Discover why every kitchen should have that statement piece. Visit our Gateshead showroom to see our range of dedicated displays, or contact us today.

Visitourshowroomtoday1StirlingCourt,EleventhAvenueNorth,TeamValley,Gateshead,NE110JF www.wdix.co.uk01914820033

Visitourshowroomtoday1StirlingCourt,EleventhAvenueNorth,TeamValley,Gateshead,NE110JF www.wdix.co.uk01914820033

UNLOCKING ELEGANCE

Discover the ultimate in garage door style and innovation at Ryedale Garage Doors' new showroom

Prepare to be captivated by the exquisite fusion of style, functionality, and cutting-edge technology at Ryedale Garage Doors' soon-tobe-opened showroom in Kirkbymoorside. Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Ryedale Garage Doors has established itself as the premier destination for bespoke garage door solutions that seamlessly blend with your home’s beauty while providing unparalleled security and convenience. Imagine driving up to your home and being greeted by a garage door that not only enhances your property, but also reflects your personal style and sophistication. They can make that vision a reality. Ryedale Garage Doors are the trusted name in delivering high-quality, tailor-made garage door solutions to discerning customers across North and East Yorkshire.

A SHOWROOM LIKE NO OTHER

Opening soon, the new showroom at Unit 5, Kirkbymoorside Business Centre, is designed to provide an immersive experience where you can explore the latest trends in garage door design and technology. As you step into the showroom, you’ll be greeted by an elegant display of their finest products, each showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and innovation that Ryedale Garage Doors is renowned for. Their range includes everything from traditional timber doors that exude classic charm to ultra-modern aluminum options that epitomise contemporary sophistication. Each door is customisable to suit your unique taste, ensuring that your garage door is a true reflection of your style.

CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY MEETS TIMELESS DESIGN

At Ryedale Garage Doors, they believe that beauty should not come at the expense of functionality. That’s why their products are equipped with the latest advancements in garage door technology. Experience the convenience of smart home integration, where you can control your garage door with just a touch of your smartphone. Their doors also feature advanced security mechanisms, providing peace of mind that your home is safeguarded against intrusions. Their expert team will be on hand to guide you through the various options, o ering personalised consultations to help you find the perfect fit for your home. Whether you’re looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property or upgrade your existing garage door with state-of-the-art technology, Ryedale Garage Doors has the solution.

EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE FIRST HAND

They invite you to visit the new showroom soon and immerse yourself in the world of luxury garage doors. Their knowledgeable and approachable team is ready to assist

“THEY CAN MAKE YOUR VISION BECOME A REALITY”

you with any questions or queries you may have. As your local business, they are committed to providing exceptional service and support, ensuring that your experience with Ryedale Garage Doors is nothing short of extraordinary.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Ryedale Garage Doors is more than just a supplier; they are your partners in transforming your home into a masterpiece of design and functionality. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the finest in garage door innovation and design.

RYEDALE GARAGE DOORS

For more information or to schedule a personalised consultation, contact them at: Ryedale Garage Doors, Unit 5, Kirkbymoorside Business Centre, West End, Kirkbymoorside, York, YO62 6AD 01653 498009 / 07710083890 enquiries@ryedalegaragedoors.co.uk ryedalegaragedoors.co.uk

“Porcelain ticks all the boxes for quality, durability and versatility”

IFINISHING TOUCH

Tile trends: from daring colour choices to creative combinations for walls

t’s just as important to consider wall tile trends alongside furniture and paint. Thanks to their wipe-clean finish, there’s no doubting they’re a practical choice. And with such a huge range of designs to choose from, they can also bring that soughtafter splash of colour and pattern.

SEAMLESS STYLES

Using an oversized tile in pale shades o ers an elegant e ect that creates the illusion of a larger space. They also result in fewer grout lines, which is a major plus when it comes to cleaning grout and tiling. Textured porcelain tiles feature a delicate lattice design that’s been hand-painted for an authentic finish and perfect for adding interest to a neutral scheme.

THE MARBLE LOOK

Marble e ect porcelain tiles enable you to create that luxurious look with the advantage of durability and ease of maintenance. Whether you’re after a bolder, dramatic style with a darker hue or looking to create a light, natural atmosphere with something softer, then this material can o er just that. There are so many options when it comes to picking colours and patterns. There is also the ability to personalise.

PLAYING WITH PATTERN

Don’t shy away from mixing di erent tiles in one area, but do minimise a clash of patterns and colours by keeping to a limited palette throughout. By twisting the orientation of these square tiles so they’re laid as diamonds, the visual impact is heightened.

MIXING YOUR METRO TILES

The humble metro tile, associated with old underground stations in London and Paris, remains as popular as ever. Bevel options add texture, while flat styles are easier to clean. For classic country kitchens, cream, taupe and soft grey palettes work best.

Add eye-catching interest to a traditional brick formation by mixing matt and gloss finishes and incorporating di erent shades.

PERFECT PORCELAIN

Porcelain is an ideal material for indoor and outdoor living spaces due to its nonporous nature, which eliminates the risk of frost damage. Additionally, its resistance to scratching and fading ensures that it can be used throughout your home and garden, linking internal spaces to external spaces.

CHOOSE SMARTLY

The best choice and service is vitally important when choosing your house makeover. The Tile Company is a family business with more than 30 years' experience with six showrooms across Yorkshire o ering the finest natural stone, new generation porcelain stoneware tiles and luxury bathroom products for projects ranging from homes, workspaces and hotels.

01904 415527

thetilecompany.co.uk

to Richard Grafton Interiors. All of which exemplify their commitment to quality and luxury in every aspect of home design.

Brand new LOOK

Exploring

Richard Grafton Interiors’ £250,000 investment in their Harrogate showroom

Richard Grafton Interiors’ flagship showroom in Harrogate’s Montpellier Quarter, which opened in 2012, has seen a complete facelift following a £250,000 investment, with their three-floor premises now showcasing a bespoke kitchen designed by the team.

Over the last 12 years, their business has become known for delivering turnkey room projects for clients throughout the region. With growing demand for kitchen installations, they decided to transform the original 1,000 sq. ft showroom to include a luxury kitchen room set for the first time, complete with walk-in pantry and larder. The ground floor also features a new ‘snug’ showcasing the company’s hand-crafted cabinetry, including a bespoke media cabinet.

The importance of the kitchen as the heart of the home is evident and with continued client demand to see and touch their o ering, they decided to put it at the centre of the refurbished interior design showroom.

The first floor now comprises a fullyfurnished bedroom and dressing room, as well as a formal sitting room with an extensive range of design-led interiors products. It also incorporates a design hub to enable closer collaboration within their fast-growing design team. The design studio, complete with hundreds of fabrics, wall coverings and flooring libraries, remains on the third floor.

In addition to furniture, they proudly showcase their partnerships with high-end appliance brands. Experience the cuttingedge Bora hob, the premium Liebherr fridge and freezer, and the advanced V-Zug steam ovens and microwave, which are exclusive

Hand crafted in a Yorkshire workshop to unique designs, their luxury kitchens not only highlight the quality of their cabinetry, but also give clients a stress-free way of creating their dream kitchen as they project manage the complete installation. They’re also looking forward to welcoming clients to cookery events at the showroom, hosted in their fully functioning kitchen.

The creation of a kitchen room set in the Harrogate showroom gives clients the chance to see first-hand the unique way in which they curate collections of items, bringing together materials, fabrics and components to complement their interior design-led cabinetry.

Join them for their open week from 12-19 July, where you are all invited to visit the newly revamped showroom in Harrogate. Enjoy champagne and goodies throughout the week as they unveil their brand-new look and celebrate this exciting transformation.

richardgraftoninteriors.com

ORIGINAL STYLE

Odyssey Quatrefoil Black Light Blue Tile, £99.99 originalstyle.com

WALLS AND FLOORS

Flecks Matt Grey Terrazzo Effect

Wall and Floor Tiles, £28.95 wallsandfl oors.co.uk

Marlborough Porcelain Natural

Textured Forest Green and Cotton White Gloss Wall Tiles, £43.34 hyperiontiles.co.uk

DECORUM TILES

Glasshouse Fan Palm Four Tile Panel, £96 decorumtiles.co.uk

RIPON INTERIORS

The Victorian by Mary Katrantzou tile collection riponinteriors.co.uk

WALLS AND FLOORS

Zebra Green White Striped Tiles, £34.95 wallsandfl oors.co.uk

PORCELAIN SUPERSTORE

Ashford Mix Patterned Tiles, £72.45

porcelainsuperstore.co.uk

ON THE TILES

Patterned or plain, matte or shiny... EDITOR’S

By PENDLE HARTE

ABIGAIL EDWARDS Seascape Tiles, £182 abigailedwards.com

TILE MOUNTAIN

Kromatika Bleu

Clair Tiles, £49.95 tilemountain.co.uk

BERT & MAY

Luna Rose Encaustic Tiles, £240.84 hyperiontiles.co.uk

CA'PIETRA

SHADE SEEKER

CATHY NORDSTROM

BISTRO BRIGHTS HABITAT

This take on the wooden table design that’s graced European cafes for over 100 years is part of Habitat’s 60th anniversary collection. The birch wood table comes in a bright limited-edition red with matching bistro chairs. habitat.co.uk

AT THE RACES

FURNISH & FETTLE

This “Red Racehorses Print” from Furnish & Fettle will look wonderful in your interior design scheme, bringing a little action to the home. Size: 90 cm square. Price: £325. furnishandfettle.co.uk

Cra ed from Cathy Nordstrom’s signature textiles and produced in small batches locally in Stockholm, these patterned lampshades are colourful and stylish, particularly this Marianne model in red. cathynordstrom.com 1 3 4 5 1 2

LINE UP COLOURS OF ARLEY

Colours of Arley’s bespoke fabric service makes all colour combinations possible. Red and pink, red and orange: break the rules in style. coloursofarley.com

RED VELVET

JONATHAN ADLER

Jonathan Adler’s collections are always colourful, and he loves a pop of red. The Ripple Slipper chair looks great as a pair in this warm red velevet.

jonathanadler.com

A POOL FOR EVERYONE

There are so many reasons to choose Easy Pools

GREAT DESIGNS AND SPEED OF INSTALLATION

Easy Pool’s huge modular range means that there is a shape and size to suit everyone. Gone are the days when building a pool meant having builders on site for weeks on end, not to mention delays caused by rain. Most pools in the range are completed in a week or two. Compare that to a concrete pool that can take months to complete, during which time your garden looks a mess. Pool sizes range from 4m to 12m with flat or sloped bases. There are currently short lead times as most models are in stock.

SMOOTH FINISH

Leisure Pools fibreglass swimming pools have a smooth, clean gelcoat finish that is non-abrasive.

MAINTENANCE-FREE

The gelcoat finish on a Leisure Pool not only looks great, it is also so easy to look after. The surface is smooth and non-porous so it cleans easily and is very stain resistant.

COLOUR RANGE

Leisure Pools o ers an exclusive range of seven beautiful colours, each with its own sparkle and shimmer finish, ensuring you will be able to find the ideal colour to suit your home and taste.

COMPATIBILITY

Salt chlorinators, chlorine, fresh water systems and ozone systems all work wonderfully well with Leisure Pools fiberglass pools. Whatever your choice may be, it will be compatible.

“The gelcoat finish not only looks great, it is also so easy to look after”

SAFETY FOR CHILDREN AND PETS

Automatic safety covers comply with all EU regulations. Many pool owners have children or grandchildren, or entertain friends with children. When owning a pool where kids will be playing, safety is a major concern. The side of a swimming pool can often be slick and hard to grasp for children. The safety ledge allows children to stand on the ledge and grasp the side of the pool. This can be helpful for children learning to swim, and can provide parents with added peace of mind.

WARRANTY

If you are getting quotes, ask if a lifetime warranty is being provided on the structure of the swimming pool. At best with a concrete pool you will get a seven-year warranty. Do you hope to have a pool for longer than that? The manufacturer is so certain it builds the world’s best composite pool that it o ers a Lifetime Structural Warranty and a Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranty on all swimming pools.

Pools by calling 01444 411 411 or 07710 402 917, or visiting swimpools.co.uk

COLOURS OF ARLEY Bespoke Stripe Fabric, £POA cultfurniture.com

SIBYL COLEFAX & JOHN FOWLER

THE FRENCH HOUSE

French ticking fabric (in limited quantity), £60/metre thefrenchhouse.co.uk

PURE FABRICS

Charles Voyseys Alice in Wonderland Cushion, £42 purefabrics.co.uk

MOLLY MAHON

Greencombe Collection, £POA mollymahon.com

Bees Aqua Print Fabric, £154 per m shop.sibylcolefax.com

BORG Kappar Fabrics, £135 per m abigailborg.com

BETHIE TRICKS Fabrics, £125 per m bethietricks.com

MINDTHEGAP

La Brasseria Fern Velvet, £199 per m mindtheg.com

FABRIC OF SOCIETY

By PENDLE HARTE

MOON Vibrance Interiors Collection AquaFlamingo, £72 moons.co.uk

thestripescompany.com

ABIGAIL

TRAVEL

CARIBBEAN DREAM

Travelling to the Caribbean with a toddler might not be everyone's idea of a holiday, but we visit two resorts that make travelling with small children a breeze. Read more over the page.

ST LUCIA

Island LIFE

Hayley Barclay travels to St Lucia with a toddler to try two family-friendly resorts

St Lucia is typically associated with romance, remote hotels and rum. So not the first choice perhaps for your first long-haul holiday with a rambunctious toddler.

However, it is such a warm, joyous place with so many fond memories for me, we decided to be adventurous and take our son. His age was also a factor: up to the age of two children can fly without their own seat, so this saves a considerable amount of money. Of course, having a restless toddler on your lap for nearly nine hours is not for the faint of heart so in hindsight, perhaps splashing out a bit extra for comfort might have been sensible. While the flight was challenging (snacks and more snacks), once we landed the blue skies and balmy breeze instantly perked me up. St Lucia is five hours ahead, so expect a few very early mornings, but the Caribbean way of “all will be well” resets everything nicely.

COCONUT BAY BEACH RESORT & SPA

THE ROOM – Our first stop was a five-minute drive from the airport in Vieux Fort, on the island’s Atlantic side. It’s a sprawling, activitypacked all-inclusive resort with 250 rooms, a mile-long beach and its own water park.

Coconut Bay is divided into two sections –adults-only Serenity and the family-friendly Splash. We stayed in a Splash King Concierge room with a huge bed, wooden cot and a balcony overlooking the resort and ocean. Newly renovated, the rooms are decked out in fun, tropical colours and the hotel had left a lovely gift bag of treats for our son. The balcony was particularly enjoyable once our son was asleep as we could watch the entertainment and have a drink while he slumbered on.

Though the resort is big, our room was within easy walking distance to the pools, restaurants and kids’ club so we didn’t use our buggy once.

FACILITIES – Coconut Bay’s children’s facilities are exceptional. Dotted around the resort’s 85 acres is a huge family-friendly pool, a lazy river, water slides and Cocoland Kidz Klub, the biggest on the island.

We left our son there for a few hours each day and he loved it – a testament to the sta , who were all so jolly, warm and professional. The club has its own mini water park, a donkey sanctuary, zip line, pirate ship, stacks of toys and even little beds for naps. For older children there are also excursions such as turtle watching.

Most evenings there is entertainment or live music – we enjoyed a surprisingly decent

“The buffet is plentiful, varied and fresh, ranging from traditional Creole saltfish to pizza”

Michael Jackon tribute and a themed barbeque. Activities during the day include fitness classes, a spa, painting lessons and water sports – and of course the beautiful beach complete with its rum and burger shack. If you run out of essentials, there is also an onsite shop. Don’t forget swim nappies like I did though as they cost an eye-wateringly $20 (£15.50) a pack.

THE FOOD – Coconut Bay has nine restaurants including the main bu et-style eatery open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The bu et is plentiful, varied and fresh, ranging from traditional Creole saltfish to pizza and it’s informal and fun, great for eating out with a toddler. For something smarter, Coconut Bay also has six fine-dining restaurants and another must-try is the Jerk Treehouse. Coconut Bay is a big and bold four-star resort, brimful of Caribbean charm. It’s not quiet or private, but has the friendliest, most helpful sta who are well used to the unpredictability of children.

THE LANDINGS RESORT & SPA

THE ROOM – Our second stop was a twohour drive to the north of the island, near Rodney Bay and Pigeon Island National Park. The lobby at The Landings is palatial – soothing and elegant and it felt more like a grand residence than a hotel. The suites and apartments are all spread out between a marina and the beach and zippy little golf buggies are available to ferry you from place to place. We stayed in a two-bedroom beachfront apartment with a huge kitchen, living area and a sun-drenched terrace. The decor was chic and simple, and there was even a laundry room (with washing powder), plus a rotation of butlers who were available from 6am until midnight if needed and helped with tasks such as organising a babysitter, room service or o ering to fetch things our son had left on the beach. Having such a large, well-equipped space meant our son was a bit calmer and had somewhere to play out of the sun.

FOOD AT THE LANDINGS

THE LANDINGS BEACH

FACILITIES – The Landings has a kids' club for ages four and up so we did not use it –however there is a babysitting service, which we used one evening so we could have dinner on the beach and watch some dancing and fire-eaters. There are two pools – one overlooking the marina – that were spotless and never crowded, but we spent most of our time on the beach. Children are most welcome at The Landings, but the vibe was more luxury and sedate, a lovely contrast to the first part of our holiday. FOOD – The Landings has a few eating options. The Beach Club, with tables that seem to float on the water, o ers upmarket Caribbean cuisine like tuna and watermelon tartar, house brined triggerfish and sangria chicken. More child-friendly options are also available like pasta and pizza. The fabulous breakfast spread is served there, too. A short walk away is the Callaloo Beach Club, where you can dine on the sand. This

place was great for letting our toddler splash in the sea while we had a rest with a drink. The menu is a bit more casual but still tasty with options such as green papaya and chayote salad or blackened fish wrap. For adults-only fine dining there is The Palms, located in the main part of the hotel. The ‘east meets west’ menu changes seasonally and with its dramatic marina views and fresh seafood cooked on a lava stone grill, it’s a real date-night treat.

THINGS TO DO IN ST LUCIA

St Lucia has such a rich heritage and magnificent scenery it seems a shame to stay resort-bound. The island’s iconic backdrop is the Piton mountains and a brilliant way to see them is on the Tet Paul Nature Trail. It’s a 40-minute hike near Soufriere that isn’t too arduous for kids, but definitely too demanding for a toddler. Market day in Soufriere is also worth a visit. It’s a great way to experience a Caribbean

port town and while it’s noisy and chaotic, it’s lots of fun. St Lucia is a once-in-a lifetime experience that the whole family can enjoy.

The weather, the welcoming people and the incredible range of sea and land activities on o er means not a toddler tantrum in sight.

FACT BOX

THE LANDINGS

Blue Bay Travel Package: A 7-night stay is from £1,849pp, departing London Gatwick with British Airways, staying at The Landings Resort and Spa on a bed & breakfast basis in a One Bedroom Villa Suite Marina View Plunge Pool (based on two sharing), with return transfers & luggage included.

COCONUT BAY

British Airways Holidays offers rates from £4,198 per family of 2 adults and 1 child under 12 years travelling for seven nights which includes a saving of 53% on the hotel nightly rate and first child stays, eats, drinks and plays FREE when sharing with adult/s. Price includes return flights from London Gatwick, airport transfers and 7-nights Premium All-Inclusive. Price correct at time of issue and subject to change. Percentage savings reflect discount on full rate for single night stays.

THE LANDINGS

COCONUT BAY WATER PARK

THE LANDINGS BEACH

Withglobalexpertiseandover 30years’experience,wehave anunrivalledreputationfor providingbespokeholidays ofthehighestquality.

Perfect ESCAPE

Why Bishop Auckland, County Durham, could be the perfect destination for your next weekend getaway

Bishop Auckland has been transformed in recent years by regeneration charity The Auckland Project, and the historic market town is now home to a unique collection of heritage attractions centred around the magnificent Auckland Castle, one of the best-preserved bishop’s palaces in Europe.

Highlights include Auckland Castle and Gardens, the recently opened Faith Museum, a historic Deer Park and two art galleries. Together, The Auckland Project’s attractions tell a remarkable story spanning 2,000 years of history, making Bishop Auckland an unmissable destination for lovers of art, history and culture. With so much to see and do, a visit to Bishop Auckland should not be rushed. For a truly memorable weekend away, you can now relax in one of The Auckland Project’s individually-designed self-catering residences, in the heart of the conservation area and close to Auckland Castle. Whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage or a contemporary apartment, The Auckland Project has a range of accommodation options to suit all tastes.

SHERIFF’S TOWER COTTAGES

These bright, charming cottages are tucked away on quiet Silver Street, just o the central Market Place and right beside the walls of Auckland Castle. Steeped in history, these cottages were once historic alms-houses, yet today the interiors have been newly refurbished with contemporary styling and zest colours, ideal for families or two couples. Both cottages have been transformed with clean lines and modern living, benefitting from light and welcoming bedrooms, calming and comfortable sitting rooms, and well-appointed kitchens. £200 per night (minimum stay 2 nights), 4 people (2 bedrooms)

LIGHTFOOT COTTAGE

This wonderful, historic property is located at the very heart of Bishop Auckland. The front garden nestles right beside the gates of Auckland Castle and the cottage itself extends either side of the original palace walls, with the dining room overlooking the ancient cobbles of the Market Place and the sitting room encompassing the Castle grounds and the Faith Museum. Recently refurbished, Lightfoot Cottage boasts rich colours and an expert blend of

traditional features and modern design. The three double bedrooms benefit from calming palettes and plenty of natural light, with one ensuite bathroom and an extravagant, spacious bathroom shared by the other two bedrooms. £300 per night (minimum stay 2 nights), 6 people (3 bedrooms)

THE CLARENCE

The Clarence is a magnificent Edwardian property, sitting at the top of sloping grounds with views through the trees to Auckland Castle itself. Located in Bishop Auckland’s most prestigious residential area, The Clarence is surrounded by grand 19th-century villas and quiet leafy streets. The sitting rooms, with their lofty ceilings and original fireplaces, are the perfect place to relax after a busy day of exploring. The family kitchen boasts wonderful views down the garden from a 12-seater dining table, as well as an expansive island around which guests can gather to cook and chatter and plan their expeditions into Bishop Auckland. Upstairs, you will discover four sumptuous bedrooms, with original fireplaces, high ceilings, spectacular views and en-suite facilities, which are the latest in modern luxury. Perhaps best of all is the garden that stretches away in a series of terraces and lawns, bounded by hedgerows and mature trees, coloured by flowerbeds. £400 per night (minimum stay 3 nights), 8 people (4 bedrooms)

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME…

Above all, guests are encouraged to make themselves at home on the Auckland Castle Estate. Guests enjoy a number of benefits including Unlimited Passes to The Auckland Project’s attractions (worth up to £30 per guest), 10% discount in The Auckland Project’s restaurants, free and private o -street parking, and after-hours access to Auckland Castle’s Walled Garden until 10pm. Dogs are also welcome for an additional charge.

To plan your perfect weekend escape in Bishop Auckland visit aucklandproject.org or email accommodation@aucklandproject.org

THE CLARENCE

LIGHTFOOT COTTAGE

SHERIFF'S TOWER COTTAGES

Gastronomic Journey

Absolutely enjoys a luxury foodie stay at Aldwark Manor Estate

Imagine a place where luxury meets exquisite dining, nestled in the picturesque North Yorkshire countryside. Our recent visit to Aldwark Manor Estate, on the enchanting Dine and Dream package, was a perfect blend of indulgence, relaxation, and culinary delight. Upon arrival, we were ushered to our suite – a bright, light-filled haven that immediately exuded comfort and elegance. The huge, comfy bed promised restful slumber, while the vast bathroom, complete with twin wash basins, a stunning free-standing bath, and a generous waterfall shower, invited us to unwind and rejuvenate. As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Squadron Bar, an impressive and bespoke replica of ‘The Greatest Showman’ bar. The ambiance was perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. We savoured expertly crafted cocktails, basking in the bar’s unique charm.

The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the dinner at Chartwell, Aldwark Manor Estate’s newest dining experience. Inspired by former Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill, who loved everything about fine dining and fabulous wine, Chartwell o ers carefully crafted menus featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, classically and accurately cooked. The influence of French chef, restaurateur, and writer Auguste Esco er is evident in the modern Savoy twist that defines the cuisine. Our seven-course tasting menu was a symphony of flavours and textures. Highlights included a salt-aged Yorkshire beef accompanied by caviar, smoked eel, and celeriac, which was a decadent, melt-in-themouth experience. The smoky eel added a unique depth to the dish. Top marks, too, to the barbequed scallop with cauliflower, grape, and bisque, which was perfectly

cooked, the sweet grape complementing the rich bisque and tender scallop.

The service and ambiance was just as impeccable as the food and we particularly enjoyed being able to watch the kitchen sta preparing our dishes on a special screen, whilst The Other Club is well worth discovering (I’ll save the surprise for when you visit!). There’s also a private dining room that overlooks the main restaurant and a wine tasting room, Clem’s (named after Churchill’s beloved wife) which will host special events and boasts a unique “self service” wine o ering that I can only describe as a posh vending machine!

Aldwark Manor Estate o ers a luxurious retreat and a culinary journey that is nothing short of exceptional. From the lavish accommodations to the unforgettable dining experience at Chartwell and the serene breakfast at Elements, every moment was crafted to perfection. Aldwark Manor Estate promises – and delivers – an experience that is truly Never Ordinary.

The Dine & Dream package with upgrade to dine in Chartwell costs from £400 per room. Based on two people sharing, including seven course tasting menu and breakfast in Elements. See more at aldwarkmanorestate.co.uk

Win a two-night getaway at the 4-star Mercure Paignton Hotel in Devon for you and a lucky plus one!

Nestled in the UNESCO Global Geopark, this new hotel encapsulates the quintessential charm of the English Riviera. O ering mesmerising panoramic views of the promenade, pier, and beach, the hotel has 161 stylish bedrooms and boasts a sophisticated interior design which fuses Art Deco with seaside charm, taking inspiration from the surrounding coastal region. The on-site Latitude 50 restaurant o ers a locally influenced all day dining experience and a two-tier outdoor terrace and bar. Don't leave your furry friend behind. Bring along your beloved pet at no extra cost and make memories together as you explore the beautiful surroundings of Paignton. Complimentary parking is also provided in this special prize, ensuring a hassle-free experience from the moment you arrive.

HOW TO ENTER

Readers of Absolutely can enter to win a 2-night stay at Mercure Paignton Hotel, worth over £500! To enter head to absolutelymagazines.com/win/

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• The winner must be 18 and older and live in the UK.

•Prize includes a two-night dinner, bed and breakfast stay for two, plus one welcome drink each and free parking for the duration of their stay. Based on two people sharing one seaview room.

•Stay is valid for 6 months only.

•Excludes the period over the Christmas, New Years and bank holidays.

•If bringing a dog, guests must sign the dog disclaimer.

•Dinner includes a £30 dinner allowance per person.

•No cash alternative is offered.

•By participating, entrants agree to these terms and conditions.

•Absolutely Magazines reserves the right to amend or withdraw the competition at any time.

•Parking is on a first come first served basis as we are unable to reserve spaces.

Aysgarth Falls Hotel now o ers premium accommodation alongside outstanding food and a warm friendly welcome. Accommodation ranges with family rooms, dog friendly rooms and The Aysgarth Suite all been available for you to choose from throughout the year.

Take a PEAK

Enjoy luxury lodge holidays in Derbyshire

There is no better place than the Derbyshire Peak District to enjoy a short break or a family holiday. The Peak District is ideally located in the heart of England and is bursting with majestic landscapes, stunning views, stately homes and family attractions. The Peak District is approximately three hours from London and is easily accessible from the

“The woodland setting enables you to get closer to nature”

Surrounded by nature

major cities in the Midlands and the North, making it an ideal place to get together with friends and family from across the UK.

Darwin Forest Lodges are situated between Matlock and Bakewell and combine luxury self-catering holiday accommodation with fantastic onsite facilities. The woodland setting creates a peaceful location from which to fully relax and get closer to nature. Many of the lodges include an indulgent hot tub and dogs are welcome in the pet friendly lodges.

An award-winning holiday

Visit England rated Darwin Forest as a 5 Star Holiday Park and awarded the coveted Gold Award for excelling in hospitality and service. The Park was also named ‘Best in Britain’ at the 2023 Hoseasons Awards, Best Holiday Park in the 2024 Derbyshire & Peak District Awards and is a national finalist in the prestigious Visit England Awards for Excellence.

The luxury lodges at Darwin Forest are nestled within a 47 acre woodland paradise and are sympathetically interwoven into the forest. They have created a holiday park where children are free to explore, build dens, see wildlife and play in the natural environment. Young and old will feel carefree and relaxed as they get back to nature and fully relax in the tranquil forest surroundings or the natural beauty of the Peak District.

The fantastic onsite facilities include a swimming pool with spa area and gym, Foresters bar & restaurant and Little Monkeys indoor play centre. The Activity Den is perfect for older children with pool tables and a games room to keep them entertained.

For all the family to enjoy, they have a tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of footpaths and cycling trails to explore. They also o er a range of instructor led activities that are suitable for both children and adults. There really is something for all ages!

DARWIN FOREST

Book now for summer. To find out more please call 01629 732428 or visit darwinforest.co.uk

BRINGING YOU closer TO THE CARIBBEAN

Scattered across nine idyllic Caribbean islands discover 18 breathtaking resorts, designed exclusively for adults. Each resort is nestled along the shores of the most exquisite beaches, boasting crystal-clear waters and powdery soft white sands. Experience unparalleled luxury as you float effortlessly in captivating infinity pools or dive into a thrilling new watersport. And when it’s time to relax and unwind your luxurious private sanctuary awaits. The beauty of the World’s Leading All-Inclusive Resorts is that everything is included, allowing you the freedom to indulge in endless possibilities or simply enjoy the serenity of paradise.

Yorkshire Hideaways

CLOSE to HOME

Two locations that will excite and encourage you to holiday in Yorkshire this summer

The Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa

Make the most of your downtime this holiday season with a three-night ‘Summer Slowdown’ stay exploring the magnificent Bolton Abbey estate on the hotel’s doorstep, with the opportunity to partake in a host of daily activities, to nurture new skills and interests or simply enjoy some favourite pastimes in the idyllic setting of this spa hotel, totally immersed in the open countryside of the Yorkshire Dales.

Guest activities on o er include croquet or pétanque on the lawn, a history insight of the Priory at Bolton Abbey or a yoga lesson or guided walk in the Dales open countryside –there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn more in a variety of daily o erings.

Furthermore, the 30,000 acre Bolton Abbey estate beckons with its 80 or so miles of pathways to explore, treading a variety of natural habitats, including ancient woodlands,

rocky outcrops, waterfalls and streams, pasture and moorland, each with its specific blend of flora and fauna. Guests have so much to explore in the immediate vicinity of the hotel’s grounds and Estate beyond.

The three-night stay includes an early check in, a bottle of chilled Cuvee in guests’ rooms upon arrival, dining credit each evening for the hotel’s multi-awarded Brasserie and al fresco dining, around which the Dales sweep and soar the horizon. Fine diners will relish the option to sample the delights of fine dining in Burlington (at a £44 per head supplement).

The revamped spa will aid the relaxation process easefully, with its vitality pool, massage jets and bubble beds, a coup especially for active walkers and yogis, enjoying the opportunity to unwind in this pampering haven as often as is wished, with no need to prebook on this particular package. devonshirehotels.co.uk

Make memories to last a lifetime when you holiday with Yorkshire Hideaways. Yorkshire Hideaways have a collection of over 100 holiday properties, perfectly situated for exploring the busy 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. They’re here for property owners too. 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

FIVE ACRES, YORKSHIRE HIDEAWAYS

EDUCATION

Silcoates offers a friendly community, situated in the calm of the glorious West Yorkshire hills, where innovative and expert teaching is underpinned by unlimited expectations. They aim to provide numerous opportunities and surround pupils with limitless academic, social and cultural opportunities, with absolutely ‘no ceilings’ of what they can achieve. Read more on page 163.

SILCOATES SCHOOL

Meet the HEADS

Absolutely sits down with the Heads of Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

ueen

Ethelburga’s (QE) provides a supportive school community set within 220 acres of beautiful countryside between Harrogate and York. It welcomes girls and boys from 3 months to Year 13, with boarding from Year 3. Children progress through their four schools –Chapter House (3 months to Year 5), King’s Magna (Years 6 to 9), QE College and QE Faculty (both Years 10 to 13). We caught up with the four Heads.

Karen KILKENNY

–Head Of Chapter House School & Queen’s Kindergarten

Q What makes Chapter House special?

A Chapter House is a welcoming, nurturing school that provides a 'home away from home' for children as they begin their educational journey at QE. Safely situated in the heart of the campus, our supportive environment respects, acknowledges, and adapts to each child’s individuality, promoting both mental and physical well-being. Our learning is centred around friendship, curiosity, and creativity.

Q What distinctive learning opportunities does Chapter House provide?

A From the magic and wonder of our exceptional Early Years classrooms filled with natural materials and spaces for imaginative play, to the enchanting woodland setting of our Forest School, every day is a new adventure. Our students have access to state-ofthe-art sporting facilities and a 312-seat professional theatre, where they can develop and showcase their talents in sports and performing arts. Smaller class sizes ensure more one-on-one interaction, allowing our pupils to fully engage and cultivate a love of learning through a variety of enriching trips, clubs, and activities. Additionally, understanding our parents need for flexibility, we provide complimentary wraparound care until 6pm.

Joe BIRCHALL

Head Of King’s Magna Middle School (KM)

‘future success’ skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, digital literacy, communication, creativity and entrepreneurship and create space within the curriculum for computer science and three modern languages.

Q How would you sum up the best of what your school has to o er?

“We are a small, nurturing school that provides a home away from home”

Q What makes King’s Magna di erent?

A In Year 6 we forgo the standard Key Stage 2 SATs and reassign that crucial learning time to preparing our students for Key Stage 3 learning and beyond, the results of which can be seen in how highly our senior schools perform in GCSEs and A-levels each year. By providing students with an extra year of tailored learning we can emphasise

A Our school is about choice and experience, trying new things, and discovering what you enjoy and excel at. Students select from over 100 clubs and activities onsite including Games Design, Practical Science, Home Economics, and Enterprise Club and can compete nationally across a broad range of specialisms. They also choose two optional timetabled subjects so they can tailor their learning to include more of what they love. We build on this in Year 7 with the option to join our Performance Sports Pathway in Basketball, Cricket, Football, or Netball or our Academy of Dramatic Arts (ADA) Performing Arts Pathway. The flexibility to choose additional subjects across a wide range of options ensures our students can engage with topics they are genuinely interested in, enjoy their education more, and develop that knowledge earlier in their education journey.

Lauren BLAKELEY –

Head Of QE Faculty

Q What is it that sets QE Faculty apart?

A QE Faculty is a school that strives to shape each student’s curriculum around their learning styles, interests and aspirations. We pride ourselves on the support we o er academically and pastorally to help every one of our students towards their goals, whatever they might be.

Unique support in the Faculty can be found in our academic coaching, which allows students to take responsibility for their own learning and work collaboratively with our team to achieve the very best they are capable of. We o er BTEC qualifications and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside traditional GCSE and A-levels. Students can take these options in any combination to suit them. Our flexibility also allows them to pursue their interests beyond the classroom to a high level, as we timetable our Performance Sport or Performing Arts pathways alongside their academic options.

Beyond the classroom we also have an extensive range of activities and leadership opportunities for our students. I believe this level of choice has led to our fantastic academic ranking of 7th in the North for Academic Performance.

“What makes us di erent is our flexibility to shape each student's curriculum”

Steven TURNER

–Head Of QE College

Q In January, QE College was ranked 1st in the North for Academic Performance for a third year in a row. What initiatives do you think contribute to this?

A We focus on developing the skills and mindset students will need to thrive in a rapidly changing world and inspire them to become curious, lifelong learners rather than teach them to pass the next examination. Our QE Study Toolkit

initiative teaches the most e ective study and revision techniques for retaining knowledge, producing quality project work and for excelling in examination settings throughout their life. We also have workshops which focus on creating e ective study routines, balancing social life with study, critical thinking, problem solving, public speaking, time management, tackling procrastination, interview technique and building self-belief.

Our programme of professional and alumni workshops and student leadership opportunities further inspires our students to work and develop. We encourage them to believe and push themselves through learned experiences such as presenting lectures, competing in internal and national competitions, and through representing QE in matches, performances and events. In turn, they develop confidence and life experience which contributes to better academic attainment.

QUEEN ETHELBURGA'S COLLEGIATE

Find out more at qe.org, email admissions@qe.org to book a private tour or book onto the Saturday 28 September open morning

Hthe lives of international students, by providing a supportive and nurturing environment, and a fantastic opportunity for cultural exchange. Being far away from family and friends can be difficult, but host families can offer a sense of community and belonging that can make international students feel more at home.

Many of our host families have children the same age and wish to expose them to another culture and language. Others have grown up children, leaving an empty bedroom at home. Hosting an international student during half terms or exeat weekends allows them to have young people in their home once again without a full-time commitment. Email hostfamilies@pippasguardians.co.uk , call 01684 252757, or scan the

EDUCATION NEWS

The latest from schools across the county and beyond

A step up

From September, The Froebelian School, Horsforth, will welcome all children from the age of two, marking a new chapter in a Froebelian education. The decision follows over 100 years following a successful model from the age of three. Headteacher Anna Coulson says: “Froebelian is a truly bespoke and impactful environment for young children to learn through play. Our highly experienced staff team prioritises curiosity, creativity and holistic development. With access to specialist teachers, school resources, and an exceptional, bespoke outdoor space – including our famous hidden forest and treehouse – children will progress amazingly both academically and socially. This decision is about making our best even better and opening up the opportunities of Froebelian’s ‘Flying Start’ to even more children. I have always been passionate about early years and provision within the school setting. This puts Froebelian at the forefront of Prep schools in Leeds and the UK.” For further information contact Ms Borkala on 0113 2583047 or h.borkala@ froebelian.co.uk

A legend remembered

On 7 June, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) held a sponsored walk or run in memory of Leeds Rhino’s legend and past number 7, Rob Burrow. The four schools –Chapter House, King’s Magna, QE College and QE Faculty – worked together towards the fundraising goal of £7,777 with the aim to donate the money raised to Leeds Teaching Hospitals towards their proposed new Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Care Centre at Seacro Hospital, which at the time of writing required a further £1 million in funding. Leeds Hospitals Charity are hoping to visit the school a er QE smashed their fundraising target, reaching £11,636 by 13 June. The idea to fundraise came to QE when reading about the breaking of ground on the proposed hospital site on 3 June. The school are close to the cause a er Kevin Sinfield was an inspiring key speaker at QE’s Speech Day event in 2023. To donate, visit qe.org/news

Power walk

On Sunday 12 May 2024, the Aysgarth community laced up their walking shoes for Yorkshire Vikings Visually Impaired Cricket Club (YVVIC): empowering individuals like Hugo Hare to thrive in sports despite visual impairment. Hugo, aged 11, is a blind Form 3 (Year 6) at Aysgarth School. Hugo’s positive impact on fellow pupils cannot be overstated. His presence has fostered increased empathy, compassion, and responsibility among his peers. Aysgarth School considers itself fortunate to have Hugo as a valued member of the community.

One of the highlights of the Big Walk was the 1⁄2 mile stretch blindfolded allowing every pupil to experience

Hugo’s world. With 279 walkers taking part and a large support team, there were nearly 300 members of the Aysgarth Community taking part. Many of the children who managed the 16 mile walk are only 8 and 9 years old. To date, nearly 190 supporters have donated over £10,500 (including gi Aid) for YVVIC. aysgarthschool.com

DISCOVER,LEARN THRIVE

Inspiring excellence in every child at Cundall Manor School

Nestled in the picturesque North Yorkshire countryside, just north of Harrogate and Ripon and five minutes from the A1, Cundall Manor School o ers a holistic education that equally values academic excellence and personal development. Every child, from the ages 2-16, benefits from the unique Cundall Character Curriculum at this all round academic, active and creative school. As they grow, pupils experience opportunities focused on personal character development and pupil-centred learning, allowing them to be inventive and enterprising, playful and fun. This approach produces confident, charismatic, independent, intelligent, and caring individuals, well-prepared and ambitious to seize new opportunities and discover their passions. Prestigious destination schools commend the outstanding manners, character, and capability of Cundall Manor pupils.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Cundall’s academic programme challenges pupils to exceed expectations. Within small class sizes, pupils are well-supported, confident in their ability, and eager to succeed. From constructing and racing homemade go-karts to gorge walking, abseiling, and rock climbing during residential trips, the opportunities at Cundall are ever-changing and always exciting. This summer term, pupils enjoyed sailing in Cowes, a Spanish exchange trip to Valencia, and Year 6 pupils staged a play in a week. Year 9 summited Ben Nevis, and senior pupils scaled the Yorkshire Three Peaks in a day. The school prioritises physical endeavour and emotional wellbeing with an outstanding sporting provision. Pupils have access to over 6 hours of timetabled sport a week to build on their sporting abilities. All children are o ered the opportunity to represent the school across a wide range of disciplines,

including rugby, football, hockey, athletics, cricket, netball, volleyball, badminton, tennis, and swimming.

“SCHOOLS COMMEND THE CHARACTER AND CAPABILITY OF CUNDALL MANOR PUPILS ”

The teaching across all disciplines is excellent, and pupils are actively encouraged to ask questions and participate during lessons. The school’s Wild Acre Wood is continually used by younger pupils for exploration and discovery, further embedding their topic learning in a dynamic setting. For arts enthusiasts, there are over 40 musical performances annually, LAMDA, Musical Theatre groups, various art workshops, choirs, school bands, and private instrumental lessons available.

A WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT

Cundall Manor’s 28-acre grounds house nursery, pre-prep, prep, and senior school pupils in an inspiring and nurturing environment. Parents are encouraged to participate in the many school events which promote their child’s educational journey.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACCELERATED LEARNING

Cundall Manor o ers scholarship programmes supporting accelerated learning in academics, the performing arts, and sports. These programmes nurture talent and encourage ability, leading pupils to excel.

What truly sets Cundall Manor apart are the boundless opportunities for personal growth, the unwavering commitment to each child’s success and well-being, and an unfaltering sense of belonging. Arrange a visit to discover why this exceptional school is the perfect place for your child to learn, to grow, and to thrive.

For more information and to arrange your visit, please contact admissions on 01423 360 200 or visit cundallmanorschool.com

THE FROEBELIAN SCHOOL

7:30am

Experienced,

Full

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Silcoates School remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence, committed to providing a nurturing environment where every pupil can thrive. They are proud to announce a significant milestone in their journey: the addition of new Junior School classes, further expanding their capacity to cater to the diverse needs of young learners. This expansion comes as a response to the growing demand for an exceptional Silcoates education that prioritises individualised attention, academic excellence, and holistic development. At Silcoates, they understand the importance of laying a strong foundation for pupils' future success, and these new classes represent their commitment to ensuring every child receives the support and guidance they need to flourish.

At the heart of this expansion are six remarkable practitioners who have joined the Junior School. Among them are three

Futures

Silcoates School: how they are pioneering growth and inspiring excellence

dedicated teachers and three brilliant classroom coordinators, each bringing passion, expertise, and a fresh perspective to the school. Their dedication to excellence mirrors the school’s own, and they couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome them aboard their journey of growth and discovery.

In addition to the new Junior School classes, at the beginning of the academic year, they proudly introduced two groundbreaking additions to the campus: an Admissions and Careers Suite and a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Study Centre.

The Careers Suite serves as a catalyst for ambition, o ering students a wealth of resources to explore their passions and chart their career pathways. Meanwhile, the Sixth Form Study Centre provides a versatile hub for growth and achievement, fostering collaboration, independent study, and creativity. These dynamic spaces have already begun to make a profound impact on students' academic journeys.

They are also delighted to be welcoming their largest cohort of new pupils into the Senior School in September 2024, a testament to their continued growth and commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience.

As they celebrate this exciting chapter in the school’s history, they extend a warm invitation to families who share their vision for the future of education. Whether it’s through a personalised tour of the 60acre campus or conversations with their dedicated admissions team, they are here to support you every step of the way.

Join them in pioneering growth, nurturing potential, and shaping futures at Silcoates School. Enquire now to discover the transformative power of a Silcoates education.

admissions@silcoates.org.uk 01924 885245 silcoates.org.uk

Outstanding care and support in later life

We are one of Leeds’ most respected health and social care providers with a proven track record in providing award-winning care and support to older people.

Our network of care homes and retirement apartments is small enough to provide quality and individual care, but large enough to provide care services that are right for you, even if your circumstances change.

Apartments with Care & Support, Respite Care and Holiday Stays

Residential Care, Apartments with Care & Support, Dementia Care, Respite Care & Holiday Stays

Residential Care, Dementia Care, Respite Care & Holiday Stays

Residential Care, Apartments with Care & Support, Dementia Care, Respite Care & Holiday Stays

Where choice and quality go hand in hand.

Headingley Hall

Shire Oak Road

Leeds LS6 2DD

Tel. 0113 275 9950

Southlands Wetherby Road Leeds LS8 2JU Tel. 0113 265 5876

Pennington Court

Hall Road

LS11 6TT

0113 228 4040 Find out more online at westwardcare.co.uk or call 0113 331 4830

The Cedars Church Side Leeds LS26 9BH Tel. 01977 512993

riginally built in 1812, Oak Tree House Farm is a handsome property o ering 3,663 sq. ft. of beautifully presented accommodation arranged over two floors. The main house and barn were converted and completely renovated in 2017 and later The Stables annexe in 2021. There are three bedrooms, three reception rooms and two bathrooms in the main house.

MONEY CAN BUY…

Fine and Country presents an immaculate detached home in Otley

WHERE

Leeds Road, Otley, LS21 1DL

WHAT

An immaculate detached residence in the sought-after location of Otley. There are four bedrooms and three bathrooms as part of the stunning accommodation.

INSIDE

Relax in the cosy living room by the front door, perfect for unwinding, with the convenience of a downstairs shower room nearby. Continuing through the entrance hallway, the seamless openplan layout welcomes you, showcasing contemporary elegance. The expansive living area is ideal for relaxation and socialising, while the sleek kitchen boasts composite worktops and top-of-the-line Lamona appliances, including dual ovens and a wine fridge. Adjacent, the utility space o ers practicality with provisions for a washer and dryer. The generously proportioned bedrooms o er comfort and style, with the main suite featuring an en-suite with a walk-in rainfall shower and double sink. Additionally, a luxurious house bathroom with chevron-styled tiling and Velux windows complements the rainfall shower.

OUTSIDE

The north-east facing rear garden enjoys outdoor lighting and picturesque countryside views, ideal for hosting alfresco gatherings. The home's distinctive features include zonal underfloor heating, long-lasting Siberian wood cladding, a separate outhouse, and a gated entrance ensuring privacy and security.

PRICE

£888,000

SELLING AGENT

Fine & Country 0113 203 4939

leeds@fineandcountrysales.com

Retirement living on your terms

Welcome to Otium of Stocksbridge, the brand new purpose-built community designed specifically for the independently minded* who choose to live their lives to the full without being bound by any of the complexities of everyday home ownership.

There are 56 one and two bedroom luxuriously appointed suites in 15 different configurations, with a variety of features and views, each tastefully finished to the very highest standard.

With a host of additional benefits and recreational spaces available Otium of Stocksbridge provides everything you need to live your retirement how you want it, in a relaxed and friendly environment.

• All utility bills covered in service charge

• 56 luxuriously appointed 1 and 2 bedroom suites • Guest suite available • 10 year ICW warranty guarantee • Fully integrated security system

• Residents facilities including lounge, IT suite, library and activity studios

• Secure on-site parking, garaging & storage to rent • Well behaved pets welcome**

*From the age of 55+ **Conditions apply - see website for details

THE RIGHT AESTHETIC

FROM THE TOP

Truestone o er their top tips on how to choose the right stone roof for your property

The timeless elegance of natural stone makes it one of the most popular roofing choices throughout Yorkshire, with heritage buildings, traditional properties and even new-builds opting for this stunning, hardwearing and easy-to-install roofing option.

WHY STONE ROOFS?

Stone roofing has seen widespread use throughout Yorkshire and other areas of the UK for hundreds of years. Locally, the most common stone used is Yorkshire stone. Originally quarried from local hillsides, it has a distinctive yellow-brown colour that a ords it a timeless look and the ability to blend in with almost any environment, not just its local area. Many traditional stone roofs are installed using the ‘diminishing course’ approach, whereby several rows (courses) of stone

slates are laid in an overlapping fashion, with slates becoming smaller as they go up the roof. Correctly installed in this way, a stone roof will last a lifetime.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT STONE

Yorkshire stone itself has become hard to come by in recent years, because many of the original quarries are no longer in use.

Many property owners and developers are turning to more a ordable and widely available Indian sandstone for their roofing projects, because this stone is abundant and easier to source. Even reclaimed Yorkshire stone (stone taken from existing roofs and re-used) is only available in limited quantities.

Thankfully, with proper finishing and dying, Indian sandstone can seamlessly match the appearance of Yorkshire stone, even outperforming Yorkshire stone in terms of its durability and versatility. These qualities are making it an increasingly popular choice for heritage, traditional and new buildings alike.

When choosing a stone and finish for your roof, there are many di erent things to consider. For example, will a planning o cer insist that your roof matches your neighbours’ roofs, or do you live in a period property with a specific look that you’re trying to maintain? You may also be replacing only part of a roof, so your new roof tiles will have to match the existing tiles as closely as possible. With so many considerations around stone type, aesthetic, size, weight considerations and more, it is important to choose a roofing supplier who will work closely with you to choose the right type of stone roofing for your property or other building. Stone roofing is a time-honoured tradition, so it is best to work with a specialist supplier that has a long history in the field. Do your research, look at previous customer testimonials, and ask for examples of projects that the company has supplied. Truestone is Yorkshire’s premier supplier of stone roof slates, and the team would be delighted to work with you on your next roofing project.

01484 662814 / truestoneroofing.com

NEW WAY OF LIFE

Exploring Otium of Stocksbridge, an over 55’s Retirement Complex built for community living

Otium of Stocksbridge is the brand new purposebuilt community designed specifically for the independently minded who choose to live their lives to the full without being bound by any of the complexities of everyday home ownership.

There are 56 one and two bedroom luxuriously appointed suites in 15 di erent configurations, with a variety of features and views, each tastefully finished to the very highest standard. With a host of additional benefits and recreational spaces available, Otium of Stocksbridge provides everything you need to live your retirement how you want it. This new purpose-built retirement community has been developed in partnership

with Noble Homes, the renowned house building firm established in Yorkshire over 60 years ago. As one of the largest independent builders in Yorkshire and beyond, Noble Homes upholds a solid reputation for build quality and attention to detail; qualities that will benefit Otium of Stocksbridge and further enhance its appeal.

BENEFITS

When you choose an Otium property you are buying into a lifestyle that sets you free to indulge in the things you’d really rather be doing instead. Your apartment suite is located within a secure gated development on the edge of the Derbyshire Peaks, close to local shops and transport links. The grounds and property exterior are all maintained by their own specialist sta leaving you free to enjoy some well earned 'me' time.

COMMUNITY

As an Otium homeowner you will have exclusive access to a range of facilities and communal areas including the owners lounge, activity studios, IT suite/library and launderette. There are meeting places and patios for social get togethers as well as comfy seating areas. In addition you will have the option of on-site car parking, garage and storage facilities, as well as use of a guest suite for family or friends that are visiting. Your Concierge will be there to help, support and advise you every step of the way.

AT A GLANCE

• All utility bills covered in service charge

• 56 luxuriously appointed 1 and 2 bedroom suites

• Guest suite available

• Fixtures and fittings include fitted kitchen (with integrated oven, induction hob and extractor, fridge freezer and washing machine) and a full set of induction pans, all carpets and flooring, blinds to all windows/patio doors

• 10 year ICW warranty guarantee

• Secure on-site parking, garaging and storage to rent

• Residents facilities including lounge, IT suite, library and activity studios

• Fully integrated security system

• Well behaved pets welcome

Prices £160,000 to £300,000. Contact the Selling Agent, Noble Homes, on 01977 522727 or by email stocksbridge@otiumliving.co.uk

Originally built in 1812, Oak Tree House Farm is a handsome property o ering 3,663 sq. ft. of beautifully presented accommodation arranged over two floors. The main house and barn were converted and completely renovated in 2017.

The ground floor flows from a welcoming reception hall and comprises a spacious sitting room, a generous dining room, both with exposed wooden flooring and feature fireplaces with woodburning stoves, and a large central kitchen which benefits from underfloor heating, a feature original fireplace, island with seating, a double Belfast sink and a neighbouring fitted utility room with the original stone shelving. The property also benefits from a generous cellar.

The first floor provides a large principal bedroom with Jack and Jill access to a modern en-suite shower room and further double bedroom. There is also a dual aspect generous bedroom o the staircase and a modern family bathroom, which complete the first floor.

TO THE MANOR BARN

A detached three-bedroom farmhouse in picturesque Leyburn

Adjoining the farmhouse is a two-bedroom barn with an open-plan modern kitchen/ sitting room with freestanding woodburning stove and conservatory, two first floor double bedrooms and an en-suite bathroom and shower room and an external glazed fitted utility room. The main farmhouse could be knocked through into the barn to create one dwelling, subject to planning.

The self-contained converted stable has a sitting room with freestanding woodburning stove, fitted kitchen, modern shower room and separate cloakroom, with underfloor heating and a first-floor mezzanine bedroom.

The property is approached over a gravelled driveway providing private parking for numerous vehicles. There is also a large garage, originally the cart sheds, with solar panels and a separate workshop. The formal walled garden is laid mainly to lawn bordered by well-stocked flower and shrub beds and features numerous seating areas, a pond and paved front and rear aspect terraces, ideal for entertaining and al fresco dining.

The small village of West Witton benefits from a shop and public house, The Fox and Hound Inn, and a mobile post o ce (3 times a week). The village is also the home to the renowned restaurant and hotel The Wensleydale Heifer.

The market towns of Leyburn, Bedale and Northallerton o er independant and high street shopping, services, cafes and public houses. West Witton sits on the A684 linking Leyburn and Hawes and providing easy commuting links to the A1(M) and national motorway networks and the nearby Northallerton mainline train station. The area o ers a wide range of independent schools including Aysgarth, Barnard Castle, Queen Mary’s, Cundall Manor, Westville House and Ampleforth.

The property is on the market with Strutt & Parker Harrogate, with o ers over £1,100,000 being encouraged. For more information, call 01423 205442 or visit struttandparker.com

why everyone is talking about…

Nike Rise

The brand new store opened at Trinity Leeds in May and is already wowing shoppers

Taking over a prime location on the ground floor at Trinity Leeds, at the former Victoria’s Secret unit, the new 10,000sq ft Nike Rise store aims to enhance shopping experiences through innovative digital services, including a digitally powered Footwear Fastlane that shares footwear product stories, benefits and technical information. It will have all the best Nike has to o er, including services and classic styles for men, women and kids.

An o cial opening celebration was held on 25 May, with an appearance from Nike athlete and local athletics star Ethan Hussey, music from Leedsbased DJ Harpriya, plus additional activities for shoppers including nail art, tooth gems, and food and drinks.

Inspired by sport and designed to get members moving, Nike Leeds empowers and equips athletes in the city to make sport a daily habit. The 571 m2 store is the pinnacle expression of Nike’s latest Rise concept, now in the heart of one of the world’s most digitally-connected markets.

Nike Leeds is an exclusive retail member home that inspires and equips Nike athletes to connect to the pulse of sport in Leeds. Its sharp focus on innovating with the member in mind has transformed the first-of-its-kind retail concept into a unique digital and o ine experience to help us better serve athletes and connect them to sport, their community and one another. The concept inspires, connects and guides athletes in Leeds to sport in their city with 365 Online-to-O ine (O2O) connected activities and services.

Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, says: “It’s incredibly exciting to welcome Nike Rise to Trinity Leeds, o ering a first-of-its-kind retail concept with a unique digital experience to help people connect with sport in Leeds, and the local sporting community. The launch of Nike Rise – the brand’s only concept store in the region – comes during a particularly exciting time for Trinity Leeds, as we gear up to welcome more big-name brands in the coming months.”

The Nike Rise launch follows the opening of Five Guys at Trinity Leeds, with Zara, Jack & Jones, Knoops and Honi Poke also announcing they will be joining the line-up

For more information about Trinity Leeds, visit trinityleeds.com

LUXURY LODGES FOR SALE IN WHITBY!

Discover Whitby’s only premier luxury holiday lodge development,  We now have show lodges to view...

Escape to your own slice of Coastal paradise near the vibrant town of Whitby. Within easy reach of the stunning walks and long sandy beaches of both Sandsend and Whitby. Just a quick 5-minute drive to the beach.

info@staglodgeswhitby.co.uk staglodgeswhitby.co.uk