Reflections Magazine April 2026

April 2026

Welcome

There’s a distinctly Peak District feel to Reflections this month –and rightly so as the National Park celebrates its 75th anniversary.

The Peak District was the first of the UK’s national parks and we take a look at events which ultimately led to its historic designation.

People campaigned for decades for both the conservation of the countryside and the right to roam within it and, this month, Ben Dalton encapsulates these passions as he raises funds for mental health and environmental charities in an epic Peak District challenge.

It’s a pleasure to include another dedicated campaigner – Gillian Scotford – in this edition. Gillian has worked tirelessly to improve accessibility across the UK and has now achieved a long-held dream with the launch of Havendale, a luxury accessible holiday home in Chesterfield, just minutes from the Peak District, in memory of her late son, Tom.

We also meet photographers Phil Sproson and Suzanne Howard - a couple well known for capturing the beauty of the Peak District – and Sara Kirby, whose textile designs are inspired by Derbyshire’s countryside.

From everyone at Reflections, we’d like to wish the Peak District National Park a very happy birthday. And a Happy Easter to all our readers and advertisers.

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE APRIL 2026

Editor: Fiona Stubbs

E: editor@bannisterpublications.co.uk

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Managing Director/Photographer: Robert Bannister, E: robert@bannisterpublications.com

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Published by: Bannister Publications Ltd. Tel. 01246 550 488 (3 lines). Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Pl, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. S40 1AR. Reflections is published monthly and delivered directly to homes which fall into

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50 Lights. Camera. Animals.

News 18, 20, 28, 42, 48, 71

12 75 years of the ‘people’s park’ As the Peak District National Park turns 75, Fiona Stubbs explores its fascinating history

22 Licence to shoot Peak District photographers Phil Sproson and Suzanne Howard have built careers through their love of the national park, as Fiona Stubbs discovers

26 Peak of endurance

Ben Dalton prepares for an epic 10-day challenge, to complete the Peak District’s 95 ‘Ethels’ in one continuous, unsupported journey –wearing barefoot sandals

32 Reflections Rewind A journey through our archives to April 2006

After 45 years of working with animals on film and TV sets, Pat Ward shares her Thespian Tails with Dawn Anderson

54 An explosion of colour April is tulip season … find out where you can discover some of the most beautiful displays this month

56 A home away from home

Accessibility champion Gillian Scotford is helping families with disabilities to holiday in comfort – and luxury. Fiona Stubbs visits Havendale

61 Crossword

62 Inspired by nature

The Derbyshire countryside inspired Sara Kirby to design a range of hand printed textiles. She tells Fiona Stubbs how returning to her roots awoke new creativity

65 Food Review

The Ashford Arms, Ashford in the Water

68 Chef’s Signature Dish

A rich, slow-cooked lamb lasagna with chef Tomasz Zajko at Bank House, Hathersage

72 Photographic competition

Latest entries in our competition, Derbyshire Through the Seasons

78 Antiques

Our antiques expert Vivienne Milburn discovers the value of scholarly Chinese brush pots

80 What’s On

Our guide to events in April and early May

75 YEARS OF THE PEOPLE’S PARK

On 17th April 1951, the Peak District became the UK’s first national park. Fiona Stubbs explores its fascinating history

HAPPY 75th birthday to the Peak District National Park!

This milestone anniversary marks not just a historic moment for the Peak District, but for all the UK protected landscapes that we enjoy today. It tells a story, spanning two centuries, of romance and rebellion – of pioneering campaigners, fighting for both the conservation of the countryside and the right to roam within it.

The Peak District’s history, of course, stretches much further back in time.

Millions of years ago it was a warm, tropical lagoon, the sedimentary rock of the Dark Peak ultimately shaped by glaciers and the White Peak’s limestone created by sea creatures, plants and shells, whose fossils can still be seen today.

While its name is thought to derive from the Anglo-Saxon Pecsaetan tribe, evidence of people living in the Peak District dates back 10,000 years. This living landscape reveals human influence from the Stone and Bronze Ages through Roman, medieval, Tudor and Stuart periods and the industrial era.

It was the rapid industrialisation and urbanisation of the early 19th century which inspired romantic poets such as Lord Byron, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth to describe the countryside as a place of inspiration and spiritual renewal - and planted the seed for the access movement.

When Wordsworth famously called the Lake District ‘a sort of national property’ - at a time when much of England’s

countryside had been enclosed by landowners through Parliamentary Enclosure Acts - his words hinted at a radical idea: that nature should belong to the public. By the late 19th century, that idea had begun to take shape as a political movement. As industrialisation intensified, interest in walking and rambling grew rapidly, with clubs such as the Manchester YMCA Rambling Club forming in 1880 and the Yorkshire Rambler Club in 1900.

The first ‘freedom to roam’ bill was introduced to Parliament in 1884 by Liberal MP James Bryce. It failed - but marked the beginning of a formal campaign for public access to the countryside.

During the 1920s, Ethel Haythornthwaite

campaigned to preserve Peak District and South Yorkshire natural landscapes, leading public appeals to acquire land and protect green spaces from inappropriate development.

Meanwhile, for many people working in the heavy industry of Sheffield and Manchester, the nearby moors and hills offered an escape. But the landscapes they longed to explore were often closed to them, with vast areas of moorland privately owned and protected by gamekeepers.

As the popularity of rambling increased, so did tensions between walkers and landowners – and protest meetings demanding greater access were held across northern England.

On Sunday 24 April,1932 around 400 ramblers – led by 20-year-old Benny Rothman - gathered to walk openly across land where public access was forbidden. As groups converged on Kinder Scout, they were confronted by gamekeepers, leading to scuffles and arrests.

Five young protesters, including Rothman, were imprisoned for their part in what became known as the Kinder Mass Trespass. In his trial at Derby Assizes, Rothman said: “We ramblers, after a hard week’s work, in smoky towns and cities, go

out rambling for relaxation and fresh air. And we find the finest rambling country is closed to us … our request, or demand, for access to all peaks and uncultivated moorland is nothing unreasonable.”

The harsh punishment sparked a wave of public sympathy and brought national attention to the issue of countryside access. While the protest did not immediately change the law, it strengthened calls for reform.

for Town and Country Planning at the time, described it as “a people’s charter for the open air” and “the most exciting Act of the post-war Parliament.”

Two years later, the Peak District became the first national park designated under the new law, followed by the Lake District (9th May) Snowdonia (18th October) and Dartmoor (30th October).

“We ramblers, after a hard week’s work, in smoky towns and cities, go out rambling for relaxation and fresh air …”

Progress finally came as Britain began rebuilding after the Second World War and the idea of national parks became part of a broader vision for social reform. Reports by campaigners such as John Dower outlined how protected landscapes could balance conservation, recreation and rural livelihoods.

The 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act created the framework for national parks across England and Wales and established new rights of way for walkers. Lewis Silkin, the Minister

The Peak District celebrated other ‘firsts’.

Fred Heardman, an access campaigner and landlord of the Nag’s Head pub in Edale, set up the National Park’s first information service in the snug. Visitor centres would follow in future years, from a mobile caravan to centres in Edale, Bakewell and Castleton.

The ranger service grew from what began as Peak District ‘wardens’. Tom Tomlinson was the first warden in 1954 – his job included helping lost or injured walkers, preventing vandalism and aiding farmers to recover sheep buried in the snow.

National parks are funded by central government and, though they own little of the land they look after, have specific

purposes enshrined in law. These are to conserve and enhance natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage and to promote opportunities for the public to understand and enjoy the special qualities of national parks. Run by National Park Authorities, they are also required to ‘seek to foster the economic and social well-being of local communities’.

Access remains a key theme.

Legislation - including the Countryside Act of 1968 and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act of 2000 - expanded protections for wildlife and significantly increased public access to open land.

The Peak District has 202 sq miles of open access land – open to walkers without having to stay on paths – and 1,600 miles of public rights of way (footpaths, bridleways and tracks). Some of its most popular accessible routes – owned and managed by the Peak District National

PEAK DISTRICT memories

Reflections readers Barry Regan and Peter Wheelhouse recall happy times spent in the national park

Barry, from Hasland, writes:

“My first big adventure as a teenager was camping near Fox House with a leaky tent and our pots and pans getting washed away in the night. But we were happy and felt like explorers when picked up the next day.

“The Scouts really inspired my love of the Peak District - rock climbing on Birchen Edge, exploring Carlswark Cavern at Stoney Middleton, feeling the vast wilderness of Kinder Scout and Bleaklow.

“I worked as an electricity engineer in north Derbyshire, taking me from the pit heads at Markham and Bolsover, to the joy of driving through Chatsworth to a job in the Peaks.

“I really felt part of the Peak District community when restoring power supplies hit by snow or storms. Just the sheer force of the elements was exhilarating at times.

“Later, travelling around the world for work, I’d always look forward to a stroll; an hour with my wife on Froggatt Edge would do. Oh, and a nip down to Calver for a refreshing pint, or fish and chips from Stoney Toll Bar chippy, outside by the stream.

“Now in retirement, I still have a Wednesday walk with two friends. Our aim

Park Authority – are the 34 miles of traffic-free trails, mostly along former rail routes. These include the Tissington, Monsal and [part of] High Peak trails.

Conservation is ever more crucial in the face of climate change. The Peak District’s peat bogs are among the UK’s most important carbon stores and Moors for the Future Partnership, set up in 2003, continues its vital work to restore moorlands damaged by centuries of pollution from the coal-fired factories that once surrounded them.

Increased demands and dwindling government funding has placed growing pressure on national parks. The Peak District Foundation - an independent charity registered in 2019 – raises funds, aiming to achieve “more land managed for nature, more rare habitats protected and more people able to enjoy the Peak District National Park.”

is to take notice and discuss everything we see and feel - and there is a great deal still to see, even after a lifetime.”

Peter, aged 81, from Dronfield writes:

“My first introduction to the national park was at the age of seven, calling in each Sunday at the snack caravan overlooking Froggatt Edge.  Their teas with tomato sandwiches and cake were delicious.

“In the late 1950s, en route to Blackpool, we enjoyed the two-hour journey from Sheffield to Glossop, taking in the dams. The Ford Popular tested itself as we climbed up Snake Pass, with mind blowing scenery.

“Young love in the Peak District

was unforgettable. In a visit to Peak Cavern with my girlfriend, when the guide turned his torch off for a moment we kissed in the pitch blackness.

“I had good times with the lads, too - swimming in the river at Stanton in the Peak, trainspotting at Rowsley engine sheds and climbing the south face of Peveril castle in our suits after visiting the Marquis of Granby to check out the purple lighting in the disco!

“I married my girlfriend in ’97, with photos of Chatsworth as a backdrop and our reception in Baslow. Before our honeymoon, we walked from Cressbrook Mill to Litton by the side of the river, just for the hell of it. Thank you, Peak District National Park. You are part of my life.”

Culture and community lead Chesterfield’s vision for the future

Chesterfield’s vibrant cultural identity and the community impact of ongoing regeneration took centre stage at this year’s Celebrate Chesterfield conference.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and supported by Vines Legal and Stepnell, the event at the Winding Wheel highlighted how culture, creativity and placemaking are becoming core drivers in the town’s long-term economic strategy.

Emily Bowman, Managing Director at Junction Arts, showcased Chesterfield’s expanding creative programme, demonstrating how local arts, events and heritage initiatives are boosting wellbeing, attracting new visitors and driving footfall into the town centre.

The conference also highlighted how regeneration continues to reshape the borough, with Chesterfield now benefiting from a £2 billion investment pipeline. Borough Council Chief Executive, Huw Bowen, who retires in May after 18 years, stressed the importance of long-term partnership in achieving regeneration milestones.

A panel featuring Vines Legal, Stepnell and Chesterfield College Group explored the role businesses play in delivering social value, showing how employers are boosting skills, apprenticeships, volunteering and local supply chains to ensure residents actively benefit from the borough’s growth.

Delegates also received a copy of this year’s Chesterfield Storybook, a publication capturing the town’s achievements and future vision. A digital version is available

at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/ celebrate/chesterfield-storybook/

Discover more about what is happening in Chesterfield at www.chesterfield.co.uk

Record-breaking High Peak Trail Walk raises £75,000 for hospice care

A record number of people tackled Ashgate Hospice’s High Peak Trail Walk - raising more than £75,000 to support palliative and end of life care across North Derbyshire.

Around 721 supporters took part in this year’s event, sponsored by Darwin Forest Luxury Lodge Holidays, choosing either a 3.5, 11 or 17-mile route along the historic High Peak Trail.

James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said: “To see 721 people come together like this was incredibly special. The High Peak Trail Walk continues to grow each year. Everyone who took part was walking with a purpose - whether that was in memory of someone, to say thank you, or simply to support local hospice care.

“We’re so grateful to every single person who signed up, donated, volunteered or cheered walkers on. The money raised will help us continue to be there for the people who need us, now and in the future.”

Stars of the Jazz World

Vocalist Jacqui Dankworth - daughter of jazz legends John Dankworth and Cleo Lane – will perform at Cavendish Hall, Edensor on 16th April (7.30pm)

Accompanied by pianist and composer Charlie Wood, the performance

will be the final Peak Music Society event of the 2025/26 season.

Like her parents, Jacqui is best known as a jazz performer, but draws on a wide range of genres, including folk, soul, blues and classical. Charlie Wood, a native of Memphis, Tennessee, was raised on blues and R&B music, but has also become accomplished as a singer/songwriter and keyboardist with an incredibly varied scope. Tickets cost £35 (£10 for those in full-time education). Learn more at: https://peakmusicsociety.org.uk/

T’Owd Man’s Grand Day Out

An old tradition will be revived at Magpie Mine, Sheldon when Peak District Mines Historical Society resurrects the annual Miner’s Holiday.

Step Back in Time: Celebrate the Miner’s Holiday is on 24th May (11am - 4pm). Once a highlight of the miners’ calendar, the holiday was renowned for its feasting, revelry and the sharing of underground stories - often featuring T’Owd Man.

Local lore casts him as the ancient spirit of the mines and of miners past. The ghostly guardian was believed to bring good luck as well as to play tricks on the unwary.

The free, family-friendly event includes guided tours of the site. Stalls hosted by the Society, Wirksworth Mines Research Group and Goodluck Mines Preservation Club promise a treasure trove of artefacts, tales from Derbyshire’s underground past and questions answered by experts,

Visitors can craft a traditional healing salve with a local medical herbalist, sample herbal teas reminiscent of those once brewed by miners’ wives and discover the surprising culinary and medicinal uses of the area’s wildflowers.

Festivities include traditional games and contests, a ceremonial blessing of the decorated Stowe by a local clergyman and mine enthusiast, live music from Cage of Crows, dance performances by T’Owd Man Border Morris and refreshments.

Below: Magpie Mine

Coun

building. Back row (L-R): Chris Sheldon, Kelly Sheldon, Emily Bowman, Matt Pritchard, Coun Tricia Gilby, Nathan Hamer, Alivia Hemstock and Ann Formukong-Boden. Front row (L-R): Lucie Maycock, Rhianna Mayhew, Annie Littlewood and Paul Chapman

New town centre space for Chesterfield creatives

A new ‘makers’ space has opened in the heart of Chesterfield town centre – providing a place for local people to get creative.

Junction Arts, one of the UK’s longestrunning community arts charities, has taken over a disused building on Station Road, transforming it into a vibrant space that offers studios, workshops and collaborative work areas for local creators, makers and innovators.

Coun Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re delighted to see this building brought back into use in such a positive and creative way. The site is now becoming a home for creative businesses, aligning with the council’s vision to expand the area’s growing creative sector.

“Junction Arts has a long and proud history of working with local communities, and this new space will give residents even more opportunities to learn new skills, collaborate and express themselves.”

Junction Arts Managing Director, Emily Bowman, added: “The new space has given us an amazing opportunity to bring together the town’s vibrant creative community, fostering collaboration, co-creation and

shared growth. The scale and potential of the new building will allow us to support and strengthen the existing community, while inspiring the next generation of artists and creative businesses.

“This opportunity comes at a particularly significant moment for Junction Arts as we celebrate our 50th anniversary and reflect on the powerful role the arts play in shaping strong, connected communities. Over the next few years, we will develop the space as a hub for creativity, offering workshops and meeting facilities for the arts community and beyond.”

Film nights in Loundsley Green

Loundsley Green Community Centre will host film nights in April and May.

The Choral, starring Ralph Fiennes, will be screened on Thursday 23rd April while A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, featuring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, will be on Thursday 21st May.

Both are £4 admission and start at 7pm (arrival 6.30pm).

April opening of Ashbourne’s new Hopton Hall Gallery

The new Hopton Hall Gallery in Ashbourne opens on Tuesday, 14th April with an inaugural exhibition, ‘Brushed Light: Atmospheric Watercolours’, featuring artwork from local artists Roger Allen, Martin Sloman, Sue Quinby, Cheryl Wilbraham, Mark Langley, Sarah Sutton, Tim Rose, Carol Hill and Sarah E A Parkin. Owners of the Hopton Hall Estate, Chris

and Andi Harvey, founded the gallery on St. John Street, Ashbourne with the aim of connecting centuries of craftsmanship with the artists shaping today’s landscape.

Chris said: “We love how art is revitalising the Hopton Hall Estate. This July marks four years of our Month of Art. It’s all about bringing the community together through creativity and heritage. Our gallery is a natural extension of that – a relaxed, welcoming spot to enjoy incredible local artists and experience a piece of history in a whole new way.”

Ruth Matthews, who has been instrumental in the development of Hopton Hall’s annual Month of Art, has been appointed Gallery Director. The Gallery will be open for exhibitions from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

Ecclesbourne Valley Railway launches critical appeal

Directors of the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway (EVR) - a heritage railway operating between Wirksworth and Duffield - have launched a track renewal appeal, Foundations of the Future.

The campaign has an ambitious target to raise £30,000 to safeguard the railway’s trackbed, which requires 400 new sleepers and hundreds of tons of ballast, to ensure it continues to operate to the highest safety standards.

To guarantee the future of the line, which dates back to 1865, directors are keen to engage with local residents and businesses and are looking for people to donate a minimum of £25 - the cost of one ton of ballast that will provide stability and drainage. New sleepers are £35 each.

Simon Scott, general manager of EVR said: “This isn’t glamorous work - it’s heavy, gritty and essential. Without it, the trains simply cannot run, and everyone’s donation isn’t just buying wood and stone, it’s securing the line for future generations and to ensure a safe journey for everyone who loves the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.”

Learn more at: https://www.e-v-r. com/foundations-for-the-future/

Photographers Suzanne Howard – professionally known as Peaklass – and Phil Sproson have built careers through their love of the Peak District.

They tell Fiona Stubbs how their work is complementary – and maybe just a little competitive – as they share the beauty of the national park with their extensive audiences.

Suzanne

I started taking pictures in my 20s. It was the days of 35mm film - I had my own dark room and did my own printing. But it was more of a hobby.

My career took me in a completely different direction. I worked in complaints management for the NHS, Police Complaints Authority and Ofsted. I also worked for the UK Embassy in Washington DC.

I moved around all over the world, had a family and put photography on the back burner. It was only when I moved to the Peak District 10 years ago that I began taking pictures again. It seemed like a wasted opportunity not to capture this beautiful place.

I started Peaklass in 2020 and went into photography full time, posting every day on Instagram, Facebook and X. I post at 7am every morning. There are people literally all over the world who tell me it starts their day in a nice, peaceful way.

As well as photographing the Peak District landscape that I love so much, I write about it too. I have written features and walks for independent visitor website Let’s Go Peak District as well as many Peak District and Derbyshire walks for the area’s official tourist board, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and for accommodation providers.

Words are also an important part of my social media postsI’m trying to convey not just the scene but the way I felt when I stood there. What was the air like? Was it clear or misty? Did

it feel damp on my skin? Was it quiet? Could I hear leaves rustling or birds singing?

For me, it’s about sharing the beauty of this place and it’s the biggest compliment when people say they feel as though they are looking over my shoulder.

Photography introduced me to Phil. He had a shop in Castleton, selling his own photographic work, and we became friends.

Now we literally work together at a big desk in our office at home - I don’t know how we do it!

It was the smallest bedroom. We trip over each other and trip over the dog who’s usually under the desk. It’s full of the goods we produce from our photography – including jigsaws, calendars, cards, notebooks – it’s a very bohemian base!

When going out to take pictures, we work both individually and together. But, even when we’re out together, we take very different pictures because of our different styles.

I remember one snowy day in Grindleford. I picked out a tiny Christmas tree among huge fir trees, which Phil

hadn’t spotted. Then he came back with landscape shots that I hadn’t noticed. We’re drawn to different things. We both feel incredibly lucky to live here. For me, it’s about sharing the Peak District with people who

don’t know it. The number of people who say they’ve visited the national park because of my photographs is lovely. I never take it for granted.”

Learn more about Suzanne and her work at: https://peaklass.com/

PhilI worked in health and safety for biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca for 17 years, based at Alderley Edge.

“In that time, I did a couple of photography courses – it was a hobby. My job was very corporate, so I started to use landscape photography in the Peak District as a means of stress relief - as a purpose to get out into nature and take myself away from everything.

“My interest grew and grew and, in the early days, I set up a Facebook page and

began to get a lot of followers. That encouraged me to get out and take pictures more and more. It got to a point where I had a decision to make about my career.

“I left AstraZeneca and, in 2016, set up a shop in Castleton to sell my photographic work. While running the shop, I began to take on photography commissions, including holiday properties and work for Countryfile magazine as a landscapes and outdoor photographer, which I’ve continued to do.

“I’ve taken on commissions for the Peak District National Park Authority, the Youth Hostel

Association and Visit Peak District & Derbyshire as well as councils, walking guides, the Peak District Boundary Walk and outdoor clothing companies. I also specialise in property photography and work with Amaze Hotels, which involves travel around the country. I co-run the visitor website Let’s Go Peak District with photographer Villager Jim and his wife, Jo. “Suzanne has influenced my Peak District photography by encouraging me to travel around. I used to go to one location and take a set of photos. You can go to a place and it will look completely different depending on the

weather or the time of day. You can see things in the landscape that you haven’t noticed before.

“In the past, I was more locked into the Hope Valley, but travelling further does yield more. You feel that you’re on more of a journey.

“Are we competitive? I don’t really think about it – we’re both pleased for each other when we do well selling our photographic products at markets or events. But customers sometimes ask if there’s a competition between us. Sometimes they feel conflicted so buy something from each of us!”

Learn more about Phil and his work at: https:// philsprosonphotography.com/

PEAK OF ENDURANCE … conquering the Ethels in just 10 days

INTREPID Ben Dalton sets out this month on an epic challenge, tackling each of the Peak District’s 95 ‘Ethels’ in one continuous, unsupported journey - over just 10 days.

The 500km route means Ben – who will be wearing barefoot sandals throughoutwill need to complete the equivalent of an ultramarathon every day to be successful.

The Ethels are a collection of prominent hills that span the length and breadth of the national park. Ranging in height from the tallest, Kinder Scout at 636m to the smallest, Harthill Moor at 272m, they are named after Peak District conservationist Ethel Haythornthwaite (1894–1986) (pictured below).

Ben’s challenge, from Friday 17th April – the national park’s 75th anniversary - to Sunday 26th April, will raise funds for Mental Health UK and environmental charity CPRE, which grew out of a local campaign group founded by Ethel Haythornthwaite.

“After researching the challenge extensively, I’ve found no record of anyone completing all the Ethels in a single journey,” says Ben. “What began two years ago as a late-night ‘I wonder if this is even possible?’ has turned into a fully mapped expedition and a year-long physical and mental training commitment.”

The route will cover roughly 50km per day across some of the Peak District’s toughest terrain.

demanding yet. “Growing up, I was fortunate to take on some incredible adventures - from summiting Cotopaxi [Equador] to completing a 24-hour canoe journey down the River Severn,” he says. “Those experiences instilled a deep love for pushing my limits. As life moved on, my focus shifted. My wife and I renovated two houses and built a business together. Those projects gave me huge purpose but I realised that, without an adventure to work towards, a part of me felt missing.

“I’ll be wild camping each night and not resupplying once I set off - making this a true self-supported endurance challenge,” adds Ben. “I’m aiming to raise £2,000, while also highlighting the mental health benefits of time spent outdoors and helping to promote the already growing interest in a more barefoot lifestyle.”

A posture therapist, Peak Districtbased Ben discovered the benefits of barefoot footwear while overcoming his own long-term knee pain.

He has always relished a challenge but admits that this will be his most physically

“The Ethels Challenge became my way of proving to myself that the resilience and determination I used to pride myself on were still very much there. Living within the Peak District National Park, I already had a deep connection with the landscape. But once I started “collecting” Ethels, it opened up the entire national park to me in a new way. I began exploring areas I might never otherwise have visited and my appreciation for the incredible variety of the Peak District only grew.”

He adds: “Earlier in my career I worked in a corporate office with very little natural light and a 45-minute commute each way. Much of my life was spent indoors or sitting in a car.

“Weekends became my escape, where I would try to spend as much time outside as possible, but it was never quite enough to balance the rest of the week. Over time, my mental health began to suffer.

“Today my life has a much healthier balance between indoor and outdoor

time, and the difference is profound. Solo hiking, in particular, has become my sanctuary. Even if it means walking through driving rain, it’s where I find clarity. Some of my best ideas, solutions to problems and moments of perspective have come while walking through the hills. It’s my most powerful form of meditation.

“The Ethels challenge, carrying everything I need on my back, adds another layer and makes the experience far more immersive. More than that, it reflects a philosophy I’m increasingly drawn to - simplifying life. There’s something powerful about stripping things back to the essentials and living, even temporarily, with only what you can carry. In many ways, that simplicity is the heart of the challenge.”

Learn more at https:// benschallenge.com

Stepping out for Ashgate Hospice

Memories of loved ones are spurring on walkers and runners to step out in support of Ashgate Hospice this spring and summer.

Derbyshire nurse Megan Cartwright will take on two major running challenges – the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k in May and the Great North Run in September - in memory of her grandad, Dave Cartwright.

Meanwhile, Peter Jacques will dust off his pink tutu to once again take part in the 10km Sparkle Night Walk in June, in memory of his wife Sue.

Both Dave, from Tapton, and Sue, from Inkersall, were cared for at home by the hospice team after cancer diagnoses.

“The care we had from Ashgate Hospice meant that Sue’s wish of being at home could happen,” says Peter. “We never felt alone and knew they were always only a phone call away. At every visit, Sue was treated with care and compassion, and nothing was ever too much trouble.”

Throughout their life together, Peter and Sue fostered 68 children, opening their home to babies and young people for short breaks and longer stays. Peter says giving back feels like a natural continuation of the life they shared.

He first took part in Sparkle Night Walk last year, along with family and colleagues and friends from Inkersall Spencer

Academy, where Sue worked for more than 30 years. Together they raised over £5,000.

For Megan, running in memory of her grandad Dave, is equally special. She spent much of her childhood with Dave, who worked in the construction industry for many years, and her grandma, June.

She says: “I know my grandad would be very proud that I’ve decided to take on both the Chesterfield 10k and the Great North Run. I know he’ll be watching and cheering me on.”

Learn more at www.ashgatehospice. org.uk/sparkle-night-walk and www. ashgatehospice.org.uk/chesterfield-10k/

Memoirs of a local authority chief executive

Chesterfield and District Civic Society will host Dr Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council, for a talk on Wednesday 8th April (7.30pm).

Memoirs of a local authority Chief Executive – 18 years at Chesterfield Borough Council, will chart Huw’s career in the town, ahead of his retirement in May.

The event will be in the Suite at the St Thomas Centre, Chatsworth Road. It is free to members and £2 for guests. Doors open 7pm.

Plans submitted for new community padel club in Dronfield

A planning application has been submitted to North East Derbyshire District Council for a new padel sports facility on Callywhite Lane, Dronfield.

The proposed venue, to be called Padel 18, would bring one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to the area.

The project has been developed by local businesspeople and proposals include four double padel courts and a single court, along with a coffee area.

Stephen Mulhern picks a winner

TV presenter, quiz show host and magician Stephen Mulhern picked the winning ticket in a prize draw organised by the Pollyanna Pickering Foundation.

Stephen joined Foundation president Anna-Louise Pickering for the prize draw which – combined with donations and a percentage of sales from a November exhibition in Pollyanna’s gallery – helped to raise £3000 to buy camera traps for a conservation initiative in Kenya.

Established by the late Matlock wildlife artist Pollyanna Pickering, the Foundation raises funds and campaigns for conservation and animal welfare in the UK and worldwide. A full list of winners from the prize draw can be found at www.pollyannapickering.co.uk

Below: Stephen Mulhern with Anna-Louise Pickering

A MAGICAL BEGINNING FOR THE YOUNGEST EXPLORERS

S. Anselm’s School in Bakewell has announced the launch of Little Puddings Nursery, which will open on 21st April 2026. This brand-new early years haven promises an exceptional start for children from birth to five years, where curiosity blossoms, imaginations soar and every day is an adventure.

At Little Puddings, children will discover the perfect blend of care, creativity and outdoor exploration, with a dedicated Forest School, a heated swimming pool, an adventure playground and a spacious sports hall for endless fun and games - all situated on site. Every moment is guided by specialist early years teachers and professionals, passionate about nurturing confident, happy children.

Nestled within the school’s breathtaking Peak District grounds, the nursery features large, light-filled rooms designed to inspire independence and joy. Open from 8am to 6pm with wraparound care available, families can enjoy flexibility and peace of mind. Fresh, homemade meals are prepared each day by the school’s catering team - and there is plenty of convenient onsite parking for busy parents.

S. Anselm’s Chair of Trustees, Emma Harrison, commented: “The launch of Little Puddings marks an exciting new chapter for S. Anselm’s. We understand the realities of modern family life, and this nursery has been crafted to offer exceptional care, flexibility, facilitiesand our trademark warmth and values.

“Our vision is to spark a lifelong love of learning where children feel safe, seen and endlessly inspired by the world around them. Every day at Little Puddings will be a celebration of discovery, creativity, and growth.

Little Puddings offers flexible nursery options including full-day sessions (8am–6pm) and half-day sessions, with wraparound care available from 7.30am to 6.30pm. The nursery provides

both 15 and 30 hours of government funding (on a stretched basis) and a 10% full-week attendance discount. Emma concluded: “This is a truly joyful extension of everything S. Anselm’s stands for - a nurturing community where every child is celebrated. We can’t wait to open our doors in April, and with places filling fast, we encourage families to get in touch soon to book a visit!”

For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact: 01629 343434 or email: admissions@anselms.co.uk

Reflections Rewind

Is it just us who thinks 2006 doesn’t seem that long ago?

Yet, incredibly, two decades have passed since this edition from April of that year.

Our cover story was dedicated to the life and service of the late Andrew Cavendish, 11th Duke of Devonshire, who had passed away two years previously. A retrospective exhibition at Chatsworth House celebrated his life and interests.

We also paid a visit to North Lees Hall, believed to be Charlotte Bronte’s inspiration for Thornfield Hall in her classic novel Jane Eyre. Charlotte is known to have visited North Lees Hall – now owned and managed by the Peak District National Park Authority - while staying with her friend Ellen Nussey in Hathersage.

She describes many features of North Lees in the novel and even its fictional name appears to stem from its real counterpart.

‘Thorn’ is an anagram of ‘north’ and ‘field’ stems from the AngloSaxon word ‘leah’ - later ‘lee’ - meaning woodland glade or field.

Climate change, waste and recycling came under the spotlight as Rebecca Stark investigated the rubbish going into our wheelie bins – and found the UK lagging way behind our European counterparts in terms of how we disposed of our waste.

And, bringing a splash of spring colour, Mike Bramley introduced readers to the beauty and hardiness of Alpine plants.

NEW SEASON, NEW STYLE: TIME TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME

Trusted Building Expertise Across Chesterfield and Derbyshire

From extensions and loft conversions to new builds and roofing, SB Hewitt Construction Ltd delivers skilled workmanship, careful project management, and over 30 years of hands-on experience.

SB Hewitt Building Services, based in Chesterfield, delivers expert craftsmanship from concept to completion. With over three decades of experience, the team specialises in planning and project management, house extensions, new builds, loft and garage conversions, stonework, renovations, and roofing.

Their ‘one-project’ philosophy ensures every job receives complete focus, with close collaboration between clients, architects, and trades to achieve exceptional results on time and within budget. Whether enhancing living space, restoring period properties, or creating bespoke homes, SB Hewitt

combines traditional skills with modern expertise.

Trusted by homeowners across Derbyshire, the company is proud of its consistently outstanding customer feedback, with clients praising their professionalism, communication, speed, and value.

AS the days grow longer and the chill of winter fades, spring arrives with a quiet invitation… a chance to refresh, reset, and reimagine the spaces we call home. Easter often marks that turning point - a natural moment when many of us begin to look around and think, “What the next project?”

Out go the heavy throws and winter clutter, and in comes the annual ritual of spring cleaning. But for many households, it doesn’t stop there. That first tidy-up can quickly spark bigger ideas - a new look, a new feel, a new chapter for the home itself.

Is it time for fresh carpets underfoot, bringing warmth

and comfort back into every room? Could this be the moment to finally plan that dream kitchen, where family life truly unfolds? Or perhaps a bathroom refresh - something sleek, stylish, and soothing?

And let’s not forget the outside. As gardens come back to life, attention naturally turns to patios, roofing, windows, and those finishing touches that make a house feel complete.

Spring isn’t just about cleaning - it’s about possibility. A season of energy, renewal, and momentum.

So why not take that first step? Because when it comes to your home, there’s no better time than now to turn ideas into reality.

BRINGING TIMELESS ELEGANCE TO THE OLD BANK, MATLOCK WITH 16 STYLISH APARTMENTS

WHEN RBSL EMBARKED ON THE AMBITIOUS TRANSFORMATION OF THE FORMER ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND BUILDING IN MATLOCK, THEY TURNED TO THE CREATIVE FLAIR AND EXPERTISE OF INTERIOR DESIGNER ZOE WOODWARD –A COLLABORATION THAT IS RESULTING IN SOMETHING TRULY EXCEPTIONAL.

Zoe was commissioned to create the interior vision and set the tone for the first phase of this landmark development. Her role has been pivotal in shaping the interior identity of what is now being thoughtfully and sensitively converted into a collection of 16 stylish apartments, blending heritage with contemporary living.

A BUILDING STEEPED IN HISTORY

The Old Bank is a striking Grade II listed Georgian building, dating back to the late 1700s. Over the years,

it has served many purposes - from a boarding school for young ladies in the 1820s, to a private residence, and later a bank following its purchase by the Sheffield and Rotherham Bank in the 19th century.

Set in the historic spa town of Matlock, the building has long been part of the town’s architectural and social fabric. Today, thanks to the vision of RBSL, it is being sensitively reimagined for modern living while respecting its rich past.

DESIGN VISION –HERITAGE MEETS CONTEMPORARY LIVING

The shared aim of RBSL and Zoe Woodward has been clear: to retain the architectural integrity of this iconic building while creating interiors that feel fresh, elegant, and relevant for today’s buyer.

Zoe’s design approach reflects this perfectly. Original features such as mouldings and proportions have been respected and enhanced,

while a carefully considered palette of heritage-inspired pastel tones introduces warmth and softness. These are balanced against crisp white detailing and contemporary finishes, ensuring the interiors feel refined rather than traditional.

The result is a seamless blend of old and new - interiors that honour the building’s Georgian heritage while offering a sophisticated, modern living environment.

A LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT

The development will deliver 16 prestigious apartments in a prime central Matlock location, featuring high ceilings, generous layouts, contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, landscaped communal gardens, and excellent transport links. With features including underfloor heating, EV

charging points, solar panels, and secure parking, this is a development that combines character with cutting-edge convenience.

Style, Quality, and Confidence for Every Home HOLYWELL CARPETS

As the days grow lighter and the first signs of spring begin to appear, many of us feel inspired to refresh our homes and surroundings. Spring is a true season of renewal - a time to open the windows, embrace brighter spaces, and create interiors that feel warm, welcoming, and full of life.

One of the most effective ways to transform a home is through flooring. A new carpet or luxury vinyl tile doesn’t simply change how a room looks - it reshapes how it feels, bringing comfort, warmth, and a renewed sense of style to every step.

At Holywell Carpets, the range is both extensive and thoughtfully curated. Alongside a wide choice of carpets from leading manufacturers such as Cavalier, Westex, Ulster and Brockway, there is an impressive selection of LVT flooring, including popular ranges such as Camaro, Lignum Fusion, Elka, and other premium brands. Whether you are seeking the natural warmth of wood-effect flooring, a sleek contemporary finish, or the softness and comfort of carpet underfoot, there is something to suit every home and lifestyle.

Flooring lies at the heart of every room, influencing mood, flow, and the overall harmony of your living space. A fresh floor can instantly modernise a tired room, add character to a hallway, or create a seamless, cohesive feel throughout the home. Whether you’re updating a single room or embarking on a full home refresh, the right flooring makes all the difference.

Spring offers the perfect opportunity to breathe new life into familiar spaces. With expert guidance, quality products, and a genuine passion for helping customers achieve their vision, Holywell Carpets makes that transformation feel effortless.

Integrity: The Foundation of Success

For decades, Chesterfield-based Holywell Carpets has built its reputation on honesty, trust, and a steadfast commitment to exceeding customer expectations.

Now led by long-standing team member Martin Howroyd - with 39 years’

experience and 25 years as a fitter - the business continues to thrive on traditional values, deep knowledge, and a genuine pride in doing things properly.

“If I wouldn’t have it in my own home, I won’t put it in yours,” says Martin - a simple yet powerful philosophy that continues to guide every recommendation and installation.

Quality, Value, and Trust

As a proud member of the Associated Carpet Group (ACG), Holywell Carpets benefits from the collective strength of over 320 independent retailers, enabling them to offer highly competitive prices on leading brands without compromising on quality.

As a Derbyshire Trusted Trader, customers can feel confident they are dealing with a vetted, reputable, and thoroughly reliable local business - one that consistently delivers on its promises.

What Customers Say

Jen M a month ago

“Wonderful from start to finish. Nothing was too much trouble and the attention to detail was amazing. Really pleased - you can tell how much they care.”

Jan Wilson a month ago

“Really pleased - the kitchen looks so much brighter. The fitters were fantastic, polite and friendly. Would definitely recommend.”

Claudia Paige 6 months ago

“Amazing service and communication. The best variety of carpets we’ve seen - and the only place that had exactly what we wanted.”

Reluctant Gardner a month ago

“Excellent advice, prices and fitting - a great all-round service.”

Derbyshire Trusted Trader February 2026

“Efficient, courteous and reliable from purchase to fitting. Excellent carpets - highly recommended.”

A Name You Can Trust

If you are looking for flooring that combines quality, choice, and expert fitting - delivered with genuine care and attention - Holywell Carpets continues to set the standard.

This is a business where traditional values meet modern living - and where every detail is handled with professionalism, pride, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.

Derbyshire winners in East Midlands Tourism Awards

The region’s outstanding tourism businesses took centrestage as the winners of the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards and the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards were announced at a glittering joint awards ceremony.

The event brought together over 380 guests including industry leaders, innovators and rising stars for a night of recognition and celebration.

The region’s two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships delivered the awards ceremony in partnership, highlighting the sector’s £5.25bn contribution to the East Midlands’ economy.

Finalists were recognised across 35 overall awards categories, spanning hotels, B&Bs, attractions, pubs, cafes, unique visitor experiences and unsung heroes, with Gold, Silver and Bronze winners.

The awards were held in partnership with VisitEngland and Gold winners in each core category will now have the chance to represent the region at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in June.

Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards Gold award winners were: Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award - Hoe Grange Holidays; B&B and Guest House of the Year - The Bulls Head, Foolow; Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the YearSandybrook Lodges; Dog Friendly Business of the Year - Rivendale Lodge Retreat; Experience of the Year - Peak Walking Adventures; Family Friendly Business of the Year - The Children’s Country House at Sudbury; Festival or Event of the Year - Celebrating Jane Austen at Chatsworth; Hotel of the Year - Peak Edge Hotel; New Tourism Business of the Year - Langley Meadows; Pub of the Year - The Tickled Trout, Barlow; Regenerative Tourism Award - Hoe Grange Holidays; Self Catering

Accommodation of the Year - Darley House, near Matlock; Taste of the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Award - Cafes and Tearooms - Hackney House Café and Deli, Barlow; Taste of the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Award – Restaurants - The Garden Room at Wildhive Callow Hall; Team of the Year Award - Buxton Opera House Volunteers; Tourism Young Achiever Award - Grace Medhurst, Yorkshire Bridge Inn; Unsung Hero Award - Vivienne Smith, The National Stone Centre; Visitor Attraction of the Year - Denby Pottery Village

Weleda agrees three-year partnership with RHS

Chelsea

Flower Show

Derbyshire-based Weleda UK has announced a three-year partnership with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Marking the 100th anniversary of Weleda Skin Food, the company will be the show’s official skincare provider. Weleda Skin Food products will be positioned across the showground for use by visitors and exhibitors and there will be a feature stand inspired by the Weleda Gardens in Shipley.

Weleda has been sustainably growing and harnessing the power of plants to create organic skincare products for over a century.

James Wren, Director of Corporate Partnership at the RHS, said: “We are delighted that Weleda is joining our growing roster of iconic partner brands at RHS Chelsea. As a gardening charity that champions growing methods which put nature first without compromising beauty, we are proud to partner with a brand that shares our deep respect for plants and the natural world.”

Award-winning church restoration brings Dronfield community together

Coun Lee Hartshorne, Chair of North East Derbyshire District Council, and

Susan Burkitt, Mayor of Dronfield, were among the guests who gathered at Dronfield’s St John’s Church to celebrate its award-winning restoration project.

They were joined by representatives from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, local schools, Joined Up Heritage, Sheffield Hallam University, local history groups and a wide range of community organisations.

Visitors attended two days of celebrations marking the church’s newly restored medieval stained glass and stonework, alongside a new exhibition showcasing the conservation work.

Also on show was artwork created by pupils from local schools and stained glass-inspired pieces by a local scout group. A children’s audio tour, developed as part of the project, helped bring the history of the church and its remarkable windows to life for younger audiences.

The event marked the culmination of a major conservation project, supported by a £179,541 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which has restored the church’s 13th-century stained glass and surrounding stonework.

The project was named joint winner in the Restoration of a Historic Interior category at the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust Architecture Awards, receiving a commendation for Exemplary Conservation, and was shortlisted for two national honours at the Church Architecture Awards in London.

A free heritage trail leaflet, produced as part of the project, is now available to encourage people to explore other historic churches across North East Derbyshire that feature significant stained glass. A new booklet about the history of the church has also been produced. Both are available free from St John’s Church on Church Street, Dronfield.

LET THE LIGHT FLOOD IN!

A high-quality roof lantern will flood your space with natural light, but what kind should you go for?

HeatGuard, always pushing the boundaries of innovation, has the answer!

THE HeatGuard Skypod lantern roof, manufactured by the UK’s leading PVC-U specialist, can transform the aesthetic appeal of any home, conservatory, or extension and welcome abundant natural light all year round. Lantern roofs, also known as roof lanterns or skylights, are architectural features installed atop roofs to enhance natural light and ventilation within a space. Typically consisting of a framework supporting multiple glass panels or panes, lantern roofs are designed to maximise the entry of sunlight into interior areas, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

ROOF LANTERNS serve as captivating architectural focal points that enhance the visual appeal of any space. Their elevated design and striking silhouette add a touch of elegance and sophistication to both interior and exterior areas.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, lantern roofs also offer practical benefits such as thermal insulation, ventilation, and customisable options to suit individual preferences and design requirements.

Advantages of Skypod roof lanterns

• Abundant natural light

• Improved ventilation

• Manufactured by the UK’s leading PVC-U specialist

• Exceptional thermal performance

• Minimisation of heat loss in colder months and reduction of heat gain in summer

• Ten-year guarantee

• Robust, well-designed, precisionmade product that’s built to last

• Eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing

• Affordable and cost effective

• Flexibility of styles, designs, and colours

With a commitment to superior craftsmanship, durability, and customer satisfaction, HeatGuard Windows can transform your living space into a sanctuary of light and elegance.

New chapter for Chesterfield’s historic theatre and museum

Stephenson Memorial Hall, home to the former Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum, is entering a new chapter – with a new name.

The venue will reopen later this year as 1435, following a multi millionpound renovation and, like its previous name, recognises ‘father of the railways’ George Stephenson. The name 1435 celebrates one of Stephenson’s greatest innovations, the standardgauge rail track.

Set 1435mm apart, this became the global benchmark for rail travel, carrying people, ideas and opportunities across continents. That same spirit of connection sits at the heart of the new 1435, which will bring visitors together through arts, culture and heritage while creating fresh links across the community.

1435 will feature a 625 seat theatre, an expanded museum with improved facilities for hosting prestigious touring works, two bars and flexible spaces for people to gather. The new design preserves the building’s heritage while improving accessibility.

The Chesterfield Borough Council-owned venue will stage the pantomime Beauty and the Beast in December, with further performances and museum exhibitions to be announced ahead of opening.

Coun Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Throughout its life, this building has carried many names, each marking a new moment in its story.

“As it evolves again, it felt right to begin this next chapter with a new identity – one that looks forward while still honouring its past. 1435 does exactly that, celebrating one of Chesterfield’s most influential residents and paying tribute to the borough’s industrial heritage, while reflecting how

this venue will connect our community.”

She added: “By bringing arts, culture and history together under one roof, 1435 will offer a richer, more immersive experience for everyone who walks through the doors.”

A new volunteering programme for Chesterfield Theatres and Museum is launching, with volunteers welcoming visitors and helping them to make the most of their visit.

Learn more about 1435 at: https:// chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/

Archaeology uncovers hidden layers of Chesterfield’s past

An archaeological excavation in Chesterfield town centre has revealed well-preserved remains that shed new light on how people lived in the town over hundreds of years.

Work to transform Rykneld Square was paused last July after early discoveries were made on site. Archaeologists from

the University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) have now completed their investigations, uncovering evidence of a sequence of buildings - including walls and floor surfaces dating from the Medieval period onwards - belonging to former almshouses and a row of cottages that once stood beside the Crooked Spire.

Pottery fragments ranging from the Medieval period to the 19th century were also found, offering insight into everyday life and longterm occupation of the area.

The structural wall remains will be preserved and carefully covered over while pottery samples, along with an account of the findings, will be given to Chesterfield Museum. Plans are being developed to share the history of the site through interpretation signs.

Following the archaeological findings, the design for Rykneld Square is being refined to protect the remains while still delivering an accessible public space.

The works are part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project which aims to regenerate and enhance key public spaces across the town centre – funded through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

New funding to help Derbyshire residents improve digital skills

Derbyshire County Council has approved £200,000 worth of grants to help more people get online.

Rural Action Derbyshire will receive £100,000 to run a scheme over the next two years to help residents achieve better digital skills. The organisation coordinates the Digital Support Derbyshire Network, through which voluntary and community sector partners run programmes, supporting people to get online and providing new or second-hand devices so residents can access the internet.

An additional £100,000 will also be provided to Rural Action Derbyshire over the next two years, to run a programme where voluntary, community and social enterprise groups can apply for help to support people to gain digital skills within their local areas.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Communities, Coun Dawn Abbott, said: “Thousands of Derbyshire residents risk being forgotten as more services take a “digital-first” approach. This funding is important in helping more people access essential health and support services that are now online.

“If they’re left without the right skills or access to digital services, then people can struggle with everyday activities like booking GP appointments, getting energy advice or managing their finances.”

IT WAS Grand

FROM THE SET TO THE PAGE - AFTER 45 YEARS WORKING WITH THE MOST UNLIKELY OF PERFORMERS, PAT WARD TALKS TO DAWN ANDERSON ABOUT HER RECENTLY PUBLISHED BOOK, THESPIAN TAILS. LIGHTS. CAMERA. ANIMALS…

IF you watch television and films, you may never have given a thought to the animals that are in the scene, other than maybe thinking them cute (if furry) or scary (if they have scales).

But every animal in every production will have been carefully chosen for its look, its temperament and, more

importantly, its ability to be trained. That is where ‘wranglers’ like Pat Ward have been essential to any production.

In her recently published book, Thespian Tails, she shares the places she has been to and the characters that she has met, with both two legs and four, a ‘kaleidoscopic recollection of amazing, happy times.’

It is a ‘warts and all’,

jam-packed account of the highs and lows of working with a whole array of creatures including elephants, brown mice, stick insects and tadpoles. Pat has always championed animal welfare and safety and this has led to a few run-ins with difficult and unreasonable directors.

She met me at her farmhouse just outside Bolsover which she shares with her husband Les and a small menagerie of animals, including donkeys, horses and dogs. They both worked together in ‘the business’ – and it was how they met. But Pat’s life with animals had started long before then.

She ‘retired’ from film and TV work about four years ago, preferring to ease out gradually. After 45 years she could be justified in having a rest but, despite being in her eighth decade, she shows no signs of slowing down. There may be no early dawn travelling to way-off locations, or crouching behind bushes, but she still keeps busy with the animals

Pat and her elephant friend searching for treats!

“ Thespian Tails is more than a memoir, it feels like an adventure into a different world.”

and runs a small business. Pat’s book gives a unique insight into not only her life as a ‘wrangler’, supplying animals (and props) to film and tv, but also her path into this ‘crazy showbiz world’. Pat describes herself as a very ordinary person who for some 40 years did a ‘not-so ordinary’ sort of job.

Most people will have heard the saying ‘don’t work with children or animals’, usually because of their unpredictability, so to forge a career out of working with them is a great achievement and takes someone special, maybe not a celebrity, but definitely not ‘a very ordinary person’.

Pat is a direct, no-nonsense and grounded woman who has a strong commitment to the welfare of animals. She is passionate and yet has a great sense of humour and a definite twinkle in her eye.

“These are clever animals, acting animals, canine and equestrian - they aren’t circus animals that do tricks,” she says. “Most people have no

idea what goes on behind the scenes to prepare them or assess them for their confidence and acting abilities.”

Over the years, she owned lots of animals herself, but also sourced creatures from other people depending on the production; there are plenty of amusing tales about finding them in the most unusual of settings.

studio, waiting around like you do, and had the time to observe and watch,” she recalls. “It started with scribbles on the back of scripts and location maps and schedule and just carried on from there.”

Actors Michael Elphick and Neil Morrissey with Holly the Parrot

Having read the book and loved it I wanted to find out what inspired Pat to write it?

On film sets and in studios, a lot of time is spent waiting around while a host of people set up the shots. Sometimes this can mean several hours of sitting around for a five-minute scene. It was during these times that Pat put pen to paper.

“I would be on location or

Pat jotted down her thoughts and experiences for years, intending to tidy up her notes and give them to her granddaughter one day as a sort of family history. She was encouraged by certain directors and researchers to write a book. She declined offers of help and didn’t want any artistic license and needed to retain the authenticity of the stories.

So, the idea lay unfulfilled until her granddaughter, Victoria, picked up a copy of Reflections magazine while sitting in the waiting area of an accountancy firm. The edition contained an advert for Bannister Publications, which ultimately gave Pat the muchneeded nudge to get in touch.

It was not without a lot of work that the book came to fruition. Pat laughs as she recalls the huge mound of screwed up papers that grew daily as

she rejected versions she was unhappy with. Pat wanted it to be the absolute best that it could be and she rose to the challenge. As the book shows, she is resilient, never afraid of a challenge and always finds a way.

Thespian Tails was published in November 2025. It will appeal to anyone who likes a good collection of stories (and pictures); you don’t need to know anything about TV or film to enjoy it. In fact, you will learn a lot about the world of ‘showbiz’.

Perhaps its greatest charm is that it captures the spirit of Pat, and her great perspective on life. She believes in doing things while you can and not waiting.

“You can’t turn the clock back and don’t wait for birthdays and Christmas because every day you’ve got is your birthday!” she says.

Pat has packed in a lot over the course of 45 years and a list in the book of productions she has worked on is a testament to how highly she was regarded. Steve Pemberton from The League

of Gentleman also produced a lovely foreword for the book.

The first copies were hot off the press at the end of last year and, much to her surprise, quickly sold.

“They have all gone! Over there was piled high with boxes of books,” she points to the corner of the room where just one empty box is left. “That was from end of November, first week in December. They went like bloody mince pies! I couldn’t believe it!” she laughs. Luckily another print run is in motion so more copies will soon be available.

As I leave, I ask her if there will be another volume. She looks surprised because she views Thespian Tails as complete, but I can’t help but wonder if there are more stories she could tell us?

I secretly hope so. Maybe Thespian Tails, the sequel!

• Copies of Thespian Tails are available from: www. bannisterpublications. com/bookstore

AN EXPLOSION OF COLOUR

April has arrived and it is the peak of tulip season in the garden. Tracy Reid reveals where to find some of the best displays

FROM sophisticated whites, creams and pinks through to bright reds and oranges, tulips offer a colour combination for everyone’s taste.

There are thousands of different varieties – all originating from just 75 different tulips that grow in the wild, in a band stretching from southern Europe deep into central Asia.

Tulips are endlessly adaptable. They are perfect in pots, urns or any other type of planter, scattered naturally through a meadow or incorporated into a mixed border design. They’re also easy to grow - plant a bulb in November and it will flower the following April to May.

In Derbyshire, we have some wonderful gardens opening up in April to share their displays of tulips and other seasonal flowers – while raising funds for charities supported by the National Garden Scheme.

Tulips

Picture: Fiona Stubbs

You can find a fantastic display of tulips at The Paddock, Whittington Moor on Sunday 13th April (11am to 5pm). Admission is just £4. Children visit free and dogs are welcome.

This hidden gem of a garden has a fabulous display every year and also features a large pond with stream and bridge. Home-made teas are served in the beautiful pergola area.

On Sunday 26th April you’ll find two gardens open in Barlborough, with

Below: Barlborough Gardens

Below right: The Paddock

Daffodils. Picture: Fiona Stubbs

a combined admission of £5. Children visit free and dogs are welcome too.

Lindway features a traditional garden including vegetable plot, while The Hollies makes the most of an unusual-shaped plot with cottage style planting, hosta alley and Moroccan corner. You’ll find a wide range of delicious home-made cakes and bakes here too, which can be enjoyed indoors or outside in the garden.

There is a special event at Bolsover Castle on Wednesday 22nd April. Join the head gardener and members of their team for an exclusive evening tour of the garden. Admission is £20 and includes refreshments. Tickets for this event will be available on the English Heritage website.

Details of all the gardens open this month can be found at https://ngs.org.uk/

TULIP TALES

Tulips first appeared in Europe from Turkey at the end of the 16th century, taking the continent by storm

They were particularly popular in Holland which, in the 1600s, was arguably Europe’s wealthiest nation. Holland has been associated with the tulip ever since

The 1630s was a period of tulip mania, with single bulbs often changing hands for more than one year’s wages of a prosperous craftsman

Their importance was captured in many great Dutch paintings of the time

The value of tulips rose dizzily, then collapsed – yet their popularity has endured through the centuries

A Home away from home

For years, Gillian and Russell Scotford were unable to find holiday accommodation to meet the needs of their disabled children. Now, as Fiona Stubbs discovers, they are helping others to experience Derbyshire and the Peak District by creating an accessible holiday home in memory of their late son, Tom.

GO ON,” cajoles Gillian Scotford. “Have a recline, see how comfortable that chair is.”

And so, with a gentle backward tilt and rising feet, begins my most relaxed interview ever – in the most stylish and well-planned home.

On the other side of the stunning fireplace of Lake District slate, Gillian describes the labour of love that is Havendale, the luxury accessible holiday escape she and her husband, Russell, have created in Chesterfield.

The single-storey, four-bedroom property offers self-catering comfort for people with a wide range of needs. “One in four households has access requirements and many trips are taken by three- or four-generational families,” says Gillian. “When designing and planning Havendale, we didn’t just focus on one area of need. We wanted to create a space that ensured a comfortable break away from home, that could meet the needs of as many people as possible and allow them to relax with dignity.”

Gillian speaks from

experience. Two of her three sons have experienced extensive disability. Tom, who died in 2017, aged 21, sustained a catastrophic brain injury in hospital during his first week of life. Her youngest son, Sam, 27, had a stroke and has severe autism.

The boys’ disabilities meant a change of life for former nurse Gillian, who began her career at Sheffield’s renowned spinal injury unit and went on to become a district nurse, based in Baslow and covering areas of the Peak District. Russell also gave up his job as a plumber to help care for their sons.

“We were always there for them,” recalls Gillian. “They had a lovely life with us and our extended family. We were all very close and took holidays together – though no accommodation ever ticked all the boxes.”

In 2011, when an online search for places for Tom to stay in the Peak District brought up no suitable properties, Gillian set out on a mission for change.

Acquiring funding from Derbyshire County Council, she set up a websiteAccessible Derbyshire. “Inspired by my own children, it was all about where you could go, what you could do,” explains

Gillian. “It listed viewpoints, scenic drives, accessible places. I shared what I knew.”

Three years later, Accessible Derbyshire became a charity and Gillian teamed up with Jane Cooper - whose daughter attended Ashgate Croft school with Tom - to raise both awareness and funds for access improvements across Derbyshire.

The award-winning charity funded accessible equipment like sailing boats, climbing harnesses and allterrain wheelchairs and worked with organisations including the Peak District National Park Authority, the National Trust and Visit England on accessibility improvements and training.

One of their proudest achievements is the on-going roll-out of Changing Places accessible toilets, which allow

more people to enjoy the countryside. The charity closed in 2023, though the website continues [https://www. accessiblederbyshire.org/]. “We created the UK’s first accessible county,” says Gillian, who now runs her own access consultancy – AccessibleUK. Based in Chesterfield, she works nationwide with organisations, championing access as a priority for all.

Tom’s death in 2017 was devastating for the family and Gillian admits it took a toll on her accessibility ambitions. However, four years later, Gillian and Russell finally received compensation for the brain injury Tom suffered as a newborn. He would have been 25 years old.

“With that money, we created Havendale,” reveals Gillian.

“This is a legacy to Tom and it enables us to help other families to not experience the challenges we faced when looking for a break. It feels very special that Tom’s memory lives on in this.”

The renovation and extension of the bungalow – project managed by Russellhas taken two years to complete. “There’s a real sense of achievement,” says Gillian. “It’s something very positive to come out of Tom’s life, along with many other things. As a family, we’ve been driven by everything Tom has taught us, from the 1999 playground appeal for Ashgate Croft which led us to build three accessible playgrounds in Derbyshire, through all our accessibility work and the training of thousands of accessibility champions.”

Exploring Havendale, it feels as though Gillian and Russell have thought of every possible need – taking expert advice on a range of practicalities as well as drawing on their own experience. Features include adjustable and easily moved furniture; luxurious specialist beds; a sleek, accessible kitchen with pull-down cabinets; sensory lighting; hearing loop; highly specialist bathroom facilities and an emergency lighting back-up system.

Black window frames and door handles provide good visual contrast for people with sight loss and, throughout, there’s an emphasis on comfort with tactile materials and textures. In the secure rear

garden, Gillian has planted jasmine and honeysuckle to create a sensory area.

“For people with disabilities, so many sensory things apply,” she says. “People think about level access as the key part of accessibility but, in fact, only 8% of 16.8 million disabled people in the UK are wheelchair users. So, 92% of people have other access needs, including hearing and sight loss, dementia, learning difficulties, autism and other neurodivergence.”

It seems nothing has been overlooked yet, insists Gillian: “While the property has been designed to be as accessible as possible, there is no such thing as fully accessible. Everyone is different and has different needs. We want Havendale to be flexible because everybody has their own way of how they best manage.”

The property was architecturally designed and built in 1965 from Derbyshire stone with floor-to-ceiling windows. With level access and outside space - including plenty of room for parking – it was an ideal property for creating the holiday home Gillian had always dreamed of. And there were other signs that it was meant to be. “It was built the year I was born!” she smiles. “There’s also a little wooded glade in the front garden with bluebells which were in full bloom

when we first viewed the property. Tom died at Bluebell Wood hospice …”

She adds: “We chose Chesterfield because it’s a historic market town and so much is being done right now to improve it. We’re 10 minutes from the Peak District National Park boundary but also only 10 minutes from the hospital and just a three-minute drive from the outstanding out of hours doctor service. When people have health issues, they don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere.”

Havendale offers the best of both worlds – including easy reach to some of the places Gillian has helped to become more accessible. “I think improvements in the last

10 years have been significant especially in things like transport, organisations like the National Trust and English Heritage and big companies. There’s a real drive for improving accessibility,” she says.

“Accessible tourism is booming. Overnight stays and day visits alone are worth £14.6 billion per year to the UK economy and the total purple pound [disabled spending power] is worth £446 billion each year.”

An official opening of Havendale was performed by the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, Sir Richard FitzHerbert.

“The property is everything I wanted but never found,” says Gillian. “I’ve dreamed about this for so many years, but we never had the money. The original dream was to build something that Tom would be able to enjoy –somewhere that wasn’t like a hospital.

“Moving forward, I’ll learn from our visitors and find ways to make their stay even better. Accessibility is a journey we’ll never complete because things are always changing. We’re always learning.”

• Learn more at https:// accessiblecottage.co.uk/ and https://www. sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/DerbyshireChesterfield/Havendale-1167060.html

Every Mile Matters: Chatsworth

R10k Returns for 2026

UNNERS of all abilities are being invited to lace up their trainers and take on the Blythe House Hospice Chatsworth 10k this autumn - a scenic challenge with a powerful purpose.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Chatsworth House estate, the 18th annual event will take place on Sunday 13th September 2026, offering a memorable running experience while supporting a vital local cause.

While many participants aim for a personal best or a new challenge, organisers emphasise that this event is about far more than crossing the finish line. Every step taken helps raise essential funds for Blythe House Hospice, enabling them to provide compassionate care, practical support and comfort to local people and their families.

Only 28% of the hospice’s

running costs are funded by the NHS, meaning the majority must be raised through community support, donations and fundraising events like the Chatsworth 10k.

Rachael Gee, Fundraising and Events Coordinator, said the event brings people together for a shared purpose, with every runner helping to make a meaningful difference to families relying on hospice care.

Early bird entry is now open until Saturday 31st May, offering a reduced rate for those looking to take part.

Entry / Registration Details Register online at: blythehousehospice.org. uk/chatsworth-10k

Event: Blythe House Hospice Chatsworth 10K

Date: Sunday 13th

September 2026

Start Time: 9:30am

1 Retires, but with savings gone? (8,3)

5 Absolutely right, it’s an angle piece (1,6)

14 Retiree posing as track feature (7)

16 Approaching after eating up old dishes (7,2,2)

1 Clown around and damage the hayloft pole (4,3,4)

Ocean mammal of approval fame? (4)

Tactfully cull off this kind of acid (5)

Feel sensitive about any alternative (4)

Hello ample parts of Earth! (4)

4 “It’s our MO,” as they say in the tribe (6,5)

6 Church falls out about a pike that’s a peak (3,4)

8 It’s a cuppa in “Lunnun tahn” (4,3)

2 Obsessive one, bolted sometimes? (3)

3 Mineral that’s alternative, say? (3)

7 Process to put into one’s suite in planning (7)

Some pretty awful origins for Bath? (3)

Grave message, bringing forth a tear? (3)

The solutions for the March 2026 Pitcherwits are shown left. The answers to April 2026 Pitcherwits are shown on page 82 of this magazine.

ACROSS

1 Aim to be a crooked part of ‘The Parish’ in Chesterfield? (6)

4 Water that can default to song? (6)

8 Seeds of charisma, with arms held out (4)

9 A Leek cabby loosely headed for Ticknall country house (5,5)

11 View of vat that is broken (5)

13 Cork book, rewritten in Moravian town (8)

15 Unlikely rich lefty place near Crich (9)

17 District where a leak is unusual (4)

19 See 26d. (4)

20 Revolting scaly orcs seen south of Chesterfield (4,5)

24 Aimed to squash fly, west of Ashbourne (8)

25 Tenor quietly composing in south Derby school (6)

27 One krona with a hallmark imprinted in Erewash (4,6)

28 Spin-drying? Not in spring at this 500 racetrack! (4)

29 Angela’s mad to get our lead! (6)

30 Houseman: has he to wait in the queue? (6)

Prize Crossword

1 A five-horse struggle East of Kelstedge (7)

2 Supertankers, with no returns to our hilltops (5)

3 Car pulled up for a service (1,1,1)

5 Potential general strike, not reliant on Hellenic folk (6)

6 Actor, bidding to host the ball (3)

7 Planeload of eels that crashed west of Parwich (5,2,2,4)

10 Cold reaction, say, to rough edge (3)

12 Totally burnt tree? (3)

14 Poem that’s due, say? (3)

16 Local hill starting to outdo Riber (3)

18 Earth layer’s music (3)

19 Locating nag going round at a clip (7)

21 Maynard, worked like one in a railway depot (7)

22 Son has pool in Derby place (7)

23 Keep, when you earn it by default (6)

26 And 19a. Piper, playing in a dark ground in Derby (5)

Name: Address:

We will give a prize of £25 to a randomly-drawn correctly completed crossword. Cut out the completed puzzle and send by April 15th, 2026, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the March 2026 crossword can be found on page 82 of this issue.

THE FABRIC OF THE COUNTRYSIDE

AS SARA KIRBY DEVELOPED

HER RANGE OF HAND-PRINTED TEXTILES – DRAWN FROM THE NATURAL WORLD - SHE FOUND INSPIRATION CLOSE TO HER OWN ROOTS, AS FIONA STUBBS DISCOVERS

IT’S not easy to concentrate on introductions with Sara Kirby when we first meet in the sitting room of her historic Peak District cottage.

There are so many distractions from eye-catching textiles, demanding to be more closely inspected.

“This is my showroom!” laughs Sara, whose designs adorn cushions, curtains and other fabrics throughout the stone-built cottage in Bamford.

Sara and her husband Paul currently divide their time between the Hope Valley and their family home in Old Basing, Hampshire.

The production side of her business, Loyalty Cottage Studio and Print Workshop, is based in Hampshire. It is where Sara originates artwork, designs and produces hand-printed textiles.

However, Sheffield-born Sara hopes to eventually return to the Peak District to pursue her craft, which is heavily influenced by the Derbyshire countryside.

She shows me a rustic notebook, revealing page after page of pressed botanicals, many collected during walks in the Peak District and along the Derwent Valley Heritage Way.

Sara and Paul, who is also from Sheffield and now works in the film industry, are exploring sections of the Derwent Valley Heritage Way, which runs from Ladybower Reservoir to Shardlow, via Cromford and passing Strutt’s Mill in Belper. It was during these walks that she collected wildflowers, including sweet cicely, which now feature on tea towels and napkins her Pressed Flowers Collection.

“I love that my products

are functional” says Sara. “My textiles are observed from the natural world, drawn, designed and then hand printed. My work is both artistic and practical; I like my products to be beautiful and enjoyed, but everything from curtains and cushions to tea towels, napkins and laundry bags are meant to be used.”

Despite a long career in the textile industry and teaching, the seed for Loyalty Cottage was sown during Covid lockdown, when Sara and her family took permitted walks along the South Downs Way, close to their Hampshire home.

“I really noticed the natural world around me,” recalls Sara. “I started to collect and press flowers. As kids, growing up on the edge of the Peak District, we’d walk all the time, but it was only during those brief periods we were allowed out during Covid that I truly appreciated the beauty around us.

“Walking in the countryside soothes my soul and inspires my work, from subtle colour combinations that continually change with the seasons to the shapes and pattern structures of nature. I find that plants and flowers are absolute treasures and it is an obvious starting point to translate the beauty

of what I see into my work.”

It was this inspiration that developed a new creativity, leading Sara to establish her design studio and print room. She sourced her own screenprinting equipment, including an exposure unit which fixes drawn artwork on to a silkscreen photographically. “I create the artwork and, when it’s printed onto the fabric, I review the design and question the relationship between the pattern, colour and fabric,” Sara explains.

“It is using the screen-printing technique, which helps me to develop ideas further through the adding of layers of print imagery for extra texture and colour.”

Sara grew up in Sheffield where her dad was a teacher and then a headmaster, working in several schools across the city. Her mum taught needlework, so fabrics were always around. “I wasn’t very academic at school, though,

“WALKING IN THE COUNTRYSIDE SOOTHES MY SOUL AND INSPIRES MY WORK, FROM SUBTLE COLOUR COMBINATIONS THAT CONTINUALLY CHANGE WITH THE SEASONS TO THE SHAPES AND PATTERN STRUCTURES OF NATURE. I FIND THAT PLANTS AND FLOWERS ARE ABSOLUTE TREASURES AND IT IS AN OBVIOUS STARTING POINT TO TRANSLATE THE BEAUTY OF WHAT I SEE INTO MY WORK.”

and I didn’t know what I wanted to do for a career” she says.

Still unsure of a career path after working in London for a while, Sara returned home to her parents and enrolled on an Art Foundation diploma course at Chesterfield College.

“I don’t think my parents were very impressed, initially, as no one in the family had worked in the creative field before,” she remembers. “I knew it was make or break for me when I got to Chesterfield. I really went for it and worked incredibly hard.”

She went on to achieve a degree in Fashion and Textiles from Manchester Metropolitan University and says: “By the time I got to Manchester, I knew I had found my niche.”

After graduating, Sara worked in the textile industry in Bolton as a designer and print room manager. Then, when Paul got a bursary to the National Film and Television School to

study Production Design, Sara also relocated to London and worked for Warner Fabrics.

Having experience of working with printing mills, she produced a collection of co-ordinating fabrics and wallpapers based on archival documents. The company was by appointment to The Queen, because it had supplied fabrics for the coronation in 1953 and Sara was involved in designing furnishing fabrics for the Royal Household at Balmoral.

Head hunted by Brightonbased Crowson Fabrics, Sara went on to work in design, marketing and product development and worked with clients including Marks & Spencer and John Lewis. She contributed to the company gaining the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise for export marketing. Now called the King’s Award, it recognises British businesses and other

organisations which excel at international trade, innovation, sustainable development or promoting opportunity.

After having her three children, Sara retrained as a teacher, working in further education and a sixth form college. She taught an applied multi-disciplinary course, with subjects including textiles and graphics, and held drawing and printing workshops. She became an Arts Education Coordinator, helping students to build their portfolios and gain work experience. “My biggest joy was when students came back to me and said they’d got a place at university,” she says. “I felt that they were ‘launched’.”

In 2012, Sara achieved an MA in Art and Design History yet admits she’s still learning.

“Having worked in mills in Lancashire, I thought I knew all about the textile trade but, through our walks on the Derwent Valley Heritage Way, I’m learning more about the origination of the textile industry,” she reveals. “There

are so many fascinating facts including the origins of water powered cotton spinning at the UNESCO world heritage site at Cromford Mill and the birthplace of the modern factory system.

“We moved to the south to work, but now we’ve got the luxury of coming back. I think I appreciate Derbyshire more now, having lived away for so long.

“We have family commitments in Hampshire but, ultimately, I’d like to be based here. My heart is here. When I come back to Derbyshire, I can breathe; my shoulders go down and I feel at home.”

The county continues to inspire Sara as she develops her brand of bespoke textiles.

“Perhaps I’m at an age where I can think and reflect and see it as an alternative to mass produced textiles,” she says.

“For the Master’s degree, I did a comparative study between digital and hand printing. Digital is fantastic for big business as it can be produced so quickly, but limited in meaning and connection to the world.

“So, I’m moving away from mass production and my work reflects the importance of things I see around me. I’ve been learning about Arkwright, who

Learn more at https:// loyaltycottage.com

Spring is in the Air… AND ON THE MENU AT THE ASHFORD ARMS

NESTLED in the idyllic village of Ashford in the Water, The Ashford Arms is a charming 17th-century coaching inn that effortlessly blends timeless character with contemporary comfort.  Step inside and you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere - cosy corners, flickering fireplaces, and beautifully styled interiors that strike the perfect balance between rustic heritage and modern elegance.

There’s a natural sense of ease here - a place where muddy boots are welcome, conversations flow, and every detail feels considered yet relaxed. The botanically inspired restaurant adds a fresh, vibrant feel, complementing the traditional bar area and creating a setting that is as uplifting as it is welcoming. And as the seasons begin to turn, so too does the focus… towards a menu that celebrates all the colour, flavour, and freshness of spring.

It is now two years since The Ashford Arms reopened its doors following an extensive £1.6 million investment - a significant commitment that has firmly

re-established this much-loved 17th-century coaching inn as one of the Peak District’s most desirable dining destinations.  The front of house operation is expertly

managed by General Managers Josh Butler and Jemima Prater, ably supported by Kade Loveday. Together, they create a seamless, welcoming experience where service feels both professional and genuinely personable. Behind the scenes, the kitchen is expertly led and inspired by Head Chef Susanta, whose passion and precision are reflected in every dish that leaves the kitchen.

Everything carries the touch - that certain je ne sais quoi - of Executive Chef Adrian Gagea. His influence is evident throughout, with dishes that reflect both creativity and precision, brought expertly to life by the talented team of chefs in the kitchen.

From the starters, the spring influence was immediately apparent - light, fresh, and beautifully balanced. The goat’s cheese and celery croquette was a standout, its crisp, golden shell giving way to a soft, indulgent centre. Alongside, the avocado and spinach mousse brought a gentle lightness, while the pickled celery and radish added a subtle sweetness and lift to the dish. The velouté tied everything together with a smooth, warming creaminess, allowing each element to bounce effortlessly off the other - crunchy, soft, fresh, and rich - all working in perfect harmony on the plate.

Equally impressive was the pan-fried red mullet, where freshness was the defining note. The fish itself was delicate and beautifully cooked, with a crisp skin that added both texture and a gentle nod to Mediterranean simplicity. The grilled asparagus was perfectly tender, offering a slight bite, while the artichoke and spinach

velouté delivered a silky, understated richness. Here again, it was all about balance - the crunch against the smooth, the freshness against the warmth - a dish that felt unmistakably of the season, light yet satisfying, and full of springtime character.

Here at The Ashford Arms, the changing of the seasons is always reflected in both the menu and the overall experience, with a clear attention to detail in every aspect. There is a real skill in the way global flavours are gently woven into traditional pub fare, creating dishes that feel both familiar and exciting. It’s a place that strikes a perfect balance - combining the relaxed charm of a country pub with a high-quality dining experience, but without any sense of formality. Whether you’re calling in after a walk, settling in for a leisurely Sunday lunch, or simply looking for something a little more refined, The Ashford Arms caters effortlessly for all.

Moving on to the mains, the pan-fried sea bream was a real highlight - a dish that showcased both precision and restraint. The skin delivered that perfect crispness, almost snapping as the fork met it, revealing beautifully moist, delicately flavoured fish beneath. Accompanied by sautéed spring greens and a caper beurre blanc, the dish carried a gentle salinity, lifted by the subtle sharpness of the capers and the silky richness of the white wine-based sauce. The Hasselback potatoes added both texture and substance, their crisp edges and soft centres completing a plate where every element was thoughtfully balanced - salty, fresh, and delicately indulgent, all harmonising into a truly memorable dish.

In contrast, the lamb tagine brought a warming depth of flavour, rich with subtle spice and a clear nod to North African influences. Served with quinoa and a vibrant pomegranate salad, the dish balanced richness with freshness, the sweetness of the pomegranate cutting gently

through the depth of the slow-cooked lamb. Chickpeas and warming spices added body and character, while the overall composition delivered that unmistakable sense of comfort - a dish where each ingredient played its part, combining to create a beautifully rounded, flavourful experience that transported you, if only for a moment, to the warmth and colour of Morocco.

To finish, the desserts carried that same sense of balance and seasonal finesse. The homemade Bakewell tart was beautifully judged - light and gently crisp, with a delicate snap of almond running through it.

Served with a smooth, creamy custard that avoided any heaviness, it brought a soft, comforting warmth to the plate. The subtle roastiness of the almond, the sweetness of the tart, and the silky custard all worked in quiet harmony - nothing overpowering, just a carefully composed combination of texture and flavour that felt both classic and refined.

In contrast, the dark chocolate mousse delivered something altogether more indulgent, yet still perfectly poised.

Light in texture but rich in deep, fullbodied chocolate flavour, it was lifted by the freshness and sharp zing of the accompanying sorbet. The addition of honeycomb brought a gentle crunch, with its sweet, slightly salted warmth adding another layer of complexity. Here, it was the interplay that impressed - smooth against crisp, rich against fresh - creating a dessert that felt vibrant, balanced, and thoroughly satisfying without ever becoming heavy.

The Ashford Arms is a true masterclass in embracing seasonality, incorporating world flavours into traditional pub fare, and striking the ultimate note in balance.

The Ashford Arms,  1 Church Street, Ashford in the Water, Bakewell, DE45 1QB

T: 01629 690490

E: enjoymore@theashfordarms.com www.theashfordarms.com

A Taste of Spring

WITH CHEF TOMASZ ZAJKO AT BANK HOUSE, HATHERSAGE.

ARICH, slow-cooked lamb lasagna, layered with silky béchamel and finished with golden Parmesan.

This delicious dish is currently on the lunchtime Lighter Bites menu offer, running through spring at Bank House.

LASAGNA DI AGNELLO

Ingredients

• 500g lamb mince

• 100g white onion, finely diced

• 70g carrot, finely diced

• 60g celery, finely diced

• 10g garlic, crushed

• 1 small sprig fresh rosemary

• 1 small sprig fresh thyme

• 1-2 bay leaves

• 30g tomato paste

• 240g tomato passata

• 120ml red wine

• 200ml litre veal stock

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

Begin by gently sweating the onion, carrot, celery and garlic in olive oil over a medium heat until softened and fragrant. Add the lamb mince, increasing the heat to allow the meat to brown well and develop depth of flavour. Pour in the red wine, scraping the base of the pan, and allow it to reduce completely. Stir through the tomato paste and passata, then add the rosemary, thyme, bay leaves and veal stock. Reduce the heat and allow the ragù to simmer slowly for around two to two and a half hours, until the sauce becomes thick, rich and deeply flavoured. Season to taste and remove the herbs before assembling the lasagna.

THE BÉCHAMEL

Silky béchamel brings balance to the richness of the lamb and gives the lasagna its classic creamy layers.

Ingredients

• 700ml whole milk

• 60g butter

• 60g plain flour

• 7g salt

• Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste

• 30g Parmesan, finely grated Method

Melt the butter in a large saucepan, then whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually add the warm milk, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and thick.

Season with salt and a little grated nutmeg, then stir through the Parmesan until melted and glossy.

Assembling the Lasagna

Begin with a thin layer of béchamel spread across the base of the dish. Add a layer of pasta sheets, followed by lamb ragù, then béchamel and a scattering of Parmesan. Repeat the layering process five to six times, finishing with a generous layer of béchamel and a final dusting of Parmesan for a beautifully golden top.

Baking

Bake in a 165°C oven for around 60 minutes, until bubbling and lightly caramelised on the surface. Allow the lasagna to rest briefly before serving, this helps the layers settle and makes for cleaner slices.

Serve with garlic bread and a green salad.

Launch of National Bakewell Pudding Day

With a flourish of his ceremonial sword, Derbyshire’s High Sheriff Sir Richard FitzHerbert cut the first slice of a giant Bakewell pudding to launch a special day for the iconic dessert.

National Bakewell Pudding Day will now be held each year on 12th March following the inaugural event at The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop.

The Bakewell pudding is believed to have been created by accident over 160 years ago and the historic shop preserves the original secret recipe, which is a closely guarded tradition.

The enormous pudding - made by The Bakewell Bakery - took four hours to prepare and eight hours to cook. The bakery makes more than 125,000 puddings each year, distributed worldwide via online sales and in-store purchases.

Jemma and Nick Beagrie own The Bakewell Bakery and The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop. Jemma said: “We are grateful to have been entrusted with a building that holds a special place in the hearts of many.

“The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop has been a beloved landmark since 1860, making it the oldest and original source of Bakewell pudding. This very building has been selling the pudding for over 160 years, using our secret recipe to preserve a delicious tradition that continues to delight visitors from far and wide.”

High Tor players present a New Romantic ‘As You Like It’

Shakespeare is re-imagined for the 1980s as the High Tor Players perform As You Like It from 29th April to May 2nd (7.30pm).

The era of New Romantics, punks and Adam Ant is the setting for William Shakespeare’s comedy - with live music and costumes inspired by the 1980s - at the Imperial Rooms Matlock.

Admission is £12.50 (ticket only), with a “pay what you can” matinee at 2pm on Saturday, May 2nd. For tickets and more details, visit: www.hightorplayers.co.uk

Cromford Classic Car and Bike show rearranged to 2027

The annual Matlock Rotary and Rugby Club Classic Car & Bike Show has been re-scheduled to next year.

It is being postponed from this summer to allow a new clubhouse to be built for the Rugby Club at Cromford Meadows, where the event is based. The new facility is scheduled to be open late in 2026.

The 12th Classic Car & Bike Show will now be held on Sunday 20th June, 2027. Matlock Rotary is looking for help in running this and other events in its 99th year of fund raising – email: enquiries@cromfordclassics.org.uk

Derbyshire

artists work

on Pride of Yorkshire lion sculptures

Derbyshire-based author and illustrator Katie Abey is bringing a splash of colour and silliness to this summer’s Pride of Yorkshire sculpture trail.

The trail, celebrating 150 years of

Sheffield Children’s Hospital, will see 150 large lion sculptures and 150 cubs installed across South Yorkshire.

Katie, who runs Punnydukes shop in Matlock, has designed a vibrant pair of lion sculptures titled Lions of Laughter in support of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

She says: “I wanted Lions of Laughter to be something that makes people smile. My work often touches on mental health, but in a really playful way.”

The trail launches across Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster and Barnsley in June and will run throughout the summer. Other Derbyshire artists involved include Nicola Mills, Chesterfield’s Ryan Mosley, David Gee and Matt Cockayne and Si Homfray from Hathersage.

Inspired by the natural world, Si’s design celebrates the landscapes of the Peak District and the legacy of Ethel Haythornthwaite, a key figure in the creation of the National Park.

He says: “I can’t wait to see children of all ages playing around the sculptures and engaging with them, while also learning about someone like Ethel.”

A number of schools in Derbyshire are also painting cubs, which people can visit during the trail. The sculptures will later be auctioned to raise money for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity. Learn more at www.prideofyorkshire.org

Spring through the lens

Spring has arrived at last!

AS the days get lighter and brighter, amateur photographers have been exploring the countryside, capturing some fabulous images for our competition, Derbyshire Through The Seasons.

On a wonderfully clear day, Stuart Else, of Matlock, visited Warslow, with Mam Tor in the far distance beyond

dry limestone walls and lush green fields. Meanwhile, Alison Parker from Clay Cross, proved you don’t have to travel far to discover spring beauty, with this striking shot of purple crocuses in Kenning Park, Holmgate.

Gillian Diggett, of Darley Dale, was perfectly placed to photograph Matlock Bath looking beautiful on a sunny March morning.

Kevin Smith, from Matlock, made the most of the blue skies above Kinder Scout, with this otherworldly shot looking south towards Lose Hill.

Russ Teale, of Newbold, was quick to capture a couple of pheasants “having a

stand-off” among the daffodils and snowdrops in Edensor.

Heavy clouds accompanied Peter Keeble, of Matlock Bath, and his walking group as they explored Calton Pastures. But Peter was still rewarded with this atmospheric image,

looking over to Beeley Moor.

Wendy Reynolds from Warsop, Notts, was delighted to discover the Ay Up Me Duck trail on a visit to Alfreton and shares this Love ‘n’ Ducks bright design among the spring daffodils.

We love to see your pictures of Derbyshire

Through The Seasons –please keep sharing them!

The pictures you send in must be taken in 2026 and must be in Derbyshire. You can enter as many times as you like. Entries must be from amateur photographers - drone images or software-altered pictures will not be accepted.

The competition will be judged by Reflections readers in November and our winner will receive a voucher for a meal at a top local restaurant, plus the chance to have six of their favourite pictures featured in the magazine.

Please email your entries to editor@bannisterpublications. co.uk, giving your full name and address, a contact telephone number and a description (including the date it was taken) of the image, which should be attached as a high res jpeg.

Keeping at

the cutting edge

of technological developments, HeatGuard leads the way in innovation!

Base construction for conservatories and home extensions transformed with modular base and wall systems

BESPOKE modular base and wall systems are a revolutionary advancement in providing the foundations and building blocks for conservatories and home extensions. The future is definitely knocking on the door and making its way in!

Why HeatGuard Modular Base?

From a number of concrete pads and a steel base frame, HeatGuard Modular Base provides a fast and efficient foundation for walls and floors.

Manufactured in-house, the base and wall systems are delivered as sections to the site – saving time, reducing waste, and ensuring an extremely high standard of workmanship on every build.

Unique benefits of HeatGuard Modular Base are:

• Flexibility – it can be created bespoke to individual and exact requirements

• Quicker and easier – the average base can be installed within a day!

• Backed up by Stroma certification

• 25-year guarantee

• Cleaner – no need for forklift, digger, or skip – less waste!

• Less expensive than traditional methods

• Cost effective – no need for expensive relocating of manholes or drains

• Straight forward installation. The Modular walls are bricked and mortared before they are delivered to site

• Unbeatable U-values – U-values of 0.22W/m2k and 0.18W/m2k

HeatGuard Modular Base gives you:

• a bespoke steel base

• a real brick (yes, real bricks!) modular wall

• a made-to-measure product that is engineered bespoke

HeatGuard Modular Base alleviates much of the hard work and most of the problems associated with the oldstyle conservatory and home extension base construction, but still provides a safe, strong and firm foundation.

TRAVELS HERE, THERE… AND EVERYWHERE

EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH TRAVELSPHERE AND MARTINS WORLD TRAVEL

FROM Africa to Alaska - and countless unforgettable destinations in between - specialist travel partner Travelsphere offers a world of extraordinary possibilities.

Since 1962, Travelsphere has been creating expertly curated, escorted tours designed to inspire, excite, and immerse. Guided by experienced professionals and shaped by a genuine passion for travel, these journeys are about more than simply visiting places - they are about truly experiencing them.

For today’s traveller, it’s no longer just about ticking destinations off a list. It’s about discovering new cultures, meeting like-minded people, and embracing something different. And that’s exactly what Travelsphere delivers.

TRAVEL YOUR WAY

Travelsphere offers a range of holiday styles to suit every kind of explorer.

Their Relax and Discover tours are perfect for those who prefer a slower pace, typically staying in one or two carefully selected hotels, with a balanced itinerary of included excursions and free time.

For those with a stronger sense of adventure, Classic Touring holidays take in multiple destinations, allowing you to experience more in a single trip.

There’s also a wide variety of specialist options - from wildlife adventures to rail journeys - each designed to create lasting memories and meaningful travel experiences.

On every tour, one thing remains constant: authentic, shared experiences that bring destinations to life.

AFRICA… THE CALL OF THE WILD

If Africa has ever been on your bucket list, Travelsphere offers an unforgettable way to explore it.

Imagine tracking the legendary “Big Five” across

breathtaking landscapes… experiencing the raw beauty of the African wilderness… and staying in luxurious surroundings that place you right at the heart of it all.

SOUTH AFRICA - BIG FIVE SAFARI EXPERIENCE

This exceptional tour offers the ultimate safari adventure.

You’ll stay at Safari Plains, a boutique luxury lodge set within the Mabula Game Reserve - South Africa’s first savannah biosphere reserve. With its elegant lounge, high-ceiling dining areas, swimming pool, and on-site spa, it offers the perfect blend of comfort and authenticity.

Accommodation comes in the form of private luxury safari tents, each with its own viewing deck, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee facilities.

TOUR

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Daily game drives tracking the Big Five

• Expert local guides

• 20 included meals, including daily high tea

• Return flights and overseas transfers FROM £2,799

10 DAYS | DEPARTURES MAR 2026 - OCT 2027

A truly unforgettable journey - and one that promises memories to last a lifetime.

CANADA… NATURE AT ITS MOST SPECTACULAR

For sheer natural beauty, few destinations can rival western Canada.

Travelsphere’s Spectacular Rockies and Vancouver tour takes you on an incredible journey from Calgary to the Pacific coast, through some of the most aweinspiring scenery on the planet.

Sit back and enjoy the experience as every detail is taken care of - allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the landscapes around you.

ROCKIES AND VANCOUVER HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the stunning Banff National Park

• Marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Louise

• Travel along the iconic Icefields Parkway

• Visit the dramatic Maligne Canyon and Lake

• Experience a thrilling river safari in Grizzly Bear Valley

The journey concludes in the vibrant coastal cities of Victoria and Vancouver, offering the perfect balance of nature and culture.

FROM £3,499

12 DAYS | DEPARTURES

MAY 2026 - SEP 2027

LUXURY REDEFINED… CANADA AND ALASKA

For those seeking something truly special, the Rockies, Rail and Alaskan Cruise tour combines luxury travel with breathtaking scenery.

This is an experience where every moment feels extraordinary.

From the snow-capped peaks of Banff to the glaciers of Alaska, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular - and you’ll experience it in style.

AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY

• A two-day journey aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer

• A seven-night Alaskan cruise through the Inside Passage

• Visits to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan

• Wildlife spotting

opportunities including bears, whales, and eagles

• Time to explore vibrant Vancouver

With fjords, forests, glaciers, and wildlife at every turn, this is travel at its most inspiring.

FROM £5,649

15 DAYS | DEPARTURES

MAY 2027 - SEP 2027

EXPERTLY DELIVERED, PERSONALLY RECOMMENDED

What truly sets Travelsphere apart is the care and expertise behind every itinerary.

Each journey is thoughtfully designed, expertly guided, and seamlessly deliveredallowing you to relax and enjoy every moment.

And here locally, the team at Martins World Travel is ready to help you every step of the way.

With their knowledge, experience, and personal service, they can guide you through the wide range of options available and help you find the perfect holiday.

YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE STARTS HERE

Whether you dream of tracking wildlife in Africa, exploring the majestic Canadian Rockies, or cruising through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, Travelsphere offers something for everyone.

Incredible destinations. Expertly guided Effortlessly enjoyed. Let Martins World Travel help turn those dreams into reality.

CALL AND DISCUSS YOUR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS WITH OUR FRIENDLY AND EXPERT TEAM ON: 01246 220020 or 01246 823763

Martins World Travel, 46 Knifesmithgate, Chesterfield, S40 1RQ T: 01246 220020

Martins World Travel, 25 Market Place, Bolsover, S44 6PN T: 01246 823763

martins-world-travel.co.uk www.1st4Cruises.co.uk

£700 FOR A PLANT POT!

Iforget what the plant was in this pot when I found it, but it certainly left plant debris in it. It was the quality of the famille verte decoration that caught my eye and the lustrous surface of the green enamel.

From a property in Calver, it dates from the late Qing (pronounced Ching) Dynasty 1861–1912. It was a turbulent time in Chinese history, however the potters of the era were still producing quality porcelain.

The actual purpose of this pot is as a brush pot, or bitong. They are an essential desk accessory in Chinese scholarly life, used to hold calligraphy brushes. Brush pots decorated in the famille verte palette often depict scenes of scholars, linking them aesthetically and culturally to the scholarly ideals of the Qing period.

Recent auction results demonstrate the range of values depending on quality, provenance and condition, illustrating steady demand for well-preserved examples. Such prices reflect the continuing appeal of scholars’ objects and items associated with the literati culture of late imperial China.

The Qing dynasty was the final imperial dynasty of China, spanning over 250 years. Founded in 1636 in Manchuria, and Beijing in 1644, the dynasty fell in 1912 following the Xinhai Revolution, marking the transition to the Republic of China.

The Late Qing Dynasty marked the final, turbulent era of imperial China, characterised by rapid decline and failed modernization attempts. Plagued by internal rebellions

By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer

like the Taipings and Boxer Uprising, and disastrous foreign wars, the dynasty collapsed following the 1911 Xinhai Revolution, ending over 2,000 years of imperial rule. Called the “Century of Humiliation”, the Qing lost nearly all conflicts, forcing them to sign “unequal treaties” with western powers and Japan, ceding territory like Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The current auction market for Chinese famille verte porcelain remains active, particularly for high-quality examples from the early Qing dynasty. Famille verte wares, characterised by their vibrant green enamel palette, were particularly prominent during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor 1661-1722. As a result, Kangxi-period pieces command the strongest prices in the international auction

market. Examples range from £5,000 to £15,000. If you require a valuation on your antiques and collectables, it is worth getting the advice of an Independent Antiques Valuer to assess your works of art. For information, please contact Vivienne Milburn on Mobile 07870 238788 or 01629 640210. www.viviennemilburn. co.uk vivienne@ viviennemilburn.co.uk

WINDING WHEEL

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

Market. Easter Sunday: Steam services all day, with refreshments available from the kiosk and Apollo Bar. Easter Monday – Family Fun Day: Steam services plus Easter Bunny appearances, egg hunt (with prizes), face painting, and children’s play zone. Under 15s travel free with a goodie bag. Ravenstor services included (or £5 adult / £2.50 child return). For more information please Phone: 01629 823076

4 Bolsover Artisan Market. From 10am–3pm, this award-winning market showcases local crafts, food, and artisan goods across Bolsover town centre Held at Market Place, Cotton Street, Old Bolsover Yard, and Cavendish Walk, the market offers a vibrant community atmosphere and has been nationally recognised with the NABMA Best Small Speciality Market Award 2025.

4 Buxton Roman Festival 2026. 10am to 4pm. Celebrate Buxton’s Roman heritage with immersive displays, military and everyday life, hands-on workshops, and ancient crafts. Discover thermal waters, Roman life, and history in an engaging, family-friendly festival experience. After the huge success of last year’s inaugural event, we’re thrilled to announce that Buxton’s Roman Festival is back on Saturday 4th April 2026! Step back in time and immerse yourself in Buxton’s Roman heritage with a day full of history, discovery, and hands-on fun. Talks and demonstrations will be happening throughout the day from 10 am to 4 pm, so there’s plenty to see and do for all ages. For more information on this event please phone: 01298 214577

5 Easter Fun Day at Peak Village. 11am to 4pm. FREE event from Peak Village. Includes creative Easter themed activities, storytelling, craft sessions and a fun Easter trail for all the family.

11-16 Derbyshire Makes Festival. Following the huge success of the first event in 2025, the festival returns in spring 2026. You can look forward to hands-on making, talks, creative walks, exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, film screenings, music, food, and plenty more. There will be lots of free activities taking place across the

ENTERTAINMENT

county. Spanning six weeks and bringing activity to every corner of the county, the festival will also feature a dedicated day in each of our vibrant Hub towns. Cromford - 11th April Chesterfield - 18th April (events will be industry-focused) Swadlincote - 25th April Heanor - 2nd May Glossop - 9th May Bolsover - 16th May. Sign up to the mailing list to find out more https://www.derbyshiremakes.co.uk/

12 Melbourne Makers Market. Located in the heart of the beautiful Derbyshire village of Melbourne, our makers market, taking place on the second Sunday of every month, makes the perfect day out! Take a stroll round the village and wander round our artisan market, full of handmade gems, local food produce and more! When: Sunday 12th April 2026 Time: 10am - 3pm Where: Melbourne Assembly Rooms, DE73 8GF What to expect: A wide array of stalls including artisan food produce, handmade gifts, vintage and lots more! 10am to 3pm

19 Maker’s Market at Cromford Mills. 10am to 4pm. Cromford Mills Maker’s Market is a vibrant celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and local talent. Showcasing a carefully curated mix of artisans, makers and producers, the market focuses on high-quality, handmade products, from beautifully crafted goods to thoughtful, one-of-a-kind pieces.

23 Lambing Discovery at Chatsworth. Enjoy a farmyard tour, learn about our sheep and farming, and care for sheep and lambs. Join our farmyard team as they prepare for our lambing season, enjoy a tour of the farmyard, learn about our different sheep breeds and farming on the Chatsworth Estate. Help us to care for our lambs and carry out sheep checks. You may even witness the birth of some lambs, although live births aren’t guaranteed. £35 per person. Per more information please visit www.chatsworth.org

25-26 Bakewell Food and Drink Festival. 10am to 5pm. Get ready for a weekend of delicious discoveries in the heart of Bakewell! The Bakewell Food and Drink Festival is back on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April, bringing together the best of local and regional food and drink, from artisan producers and street food vendors to award-winning local treats. Not just a feast for the taste buds, this annual festival supports local charities and gives the community a boost, helping Bakewell’s businesses and bringing everyone together for a celebration of flavour, fun, and community spirit. Enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and plenty of opportunities to sample and buy amazing local produce, all while supporting great causes. Free entry

for all — come hungry and leave inspired! 26 Cromford Mills Dog Show 2026. 10am to 4pm. Join us for a paw-tastic day out at Cromford Mills as we celebrate our canine best friends in the stunning historic surroundings of this World Heritage Site. Our popular Dog Show returns in 2026, promising a fun-filled day for dogs and humans alike. Enjoy a packed programme of entertainment, family-friendly activities, tombolas, trade stalls and plenty of opportunities to treat your four-legged companions. From playful competitions to browsing dog-related goodies, there’s something for every breed, age and personality. For more information please visit www.cromfordmills.org.uk

MAY

2 Tideswell Food Festival. Held annually in the charming village of Tideswell, this event brings together an eclectic mix of artisan food stalls, handmade goods, and live entertainment. Stroll through the market and discover locally-sourced produce, from fresh seasonal ingredients to indulgent treats, alongside unique crafts from talented makers. Whether you are a food lover, craft enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out in the beautiful countryside, Tideswell’s Food Festival & Makers Market offers something for everyone. The Tideswell Food Festival returns on 2 May 2026.

3-4

9

Belper Arts Trail. Taking place across Belper town centre on Sunday 3rd and Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 2026, this popular trail features artists, makers and creatives exhibiting, performing and demonstrating in venues throughout the town. Marking its 13th year and celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jedidiah Strutt’s first water-powered cotton mill, this special free event highlights the heritage and creativity at the heart of the community.

Dethick, Lea & Holloway Horticultural Society are holding their annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday 9th May 2026 at the Florence Nightingale Memorial Hall, Yew Tree Hill, Holloway, near Matlock, DE4 5BD. There will be a good selection of plants for sale, bedding, hardy perennials, tender perennials, salad, herb and vegetable plants, and plants suitable for wildlife. There will also be cakes and preserves for sale. Professional nurseries also attend Entry is free –doors open at 10am until 12noon.

SUBMIT YOUR LISTING OR EVENT

Please email your information including dates to whatson@reflectionsmagazine.com before April 15th, 2026, to appear in the May 2026 issue.