Reflections Magazine February 2026

Celebrating Excellence

February 2026

Welcome

Is it spring yet?!

We may still be in the midst of winter but February brings glimmers of change. The days get a little longer and lighter, birdsong becomes louder … and carpets of snowdrops appear.

This month, we’re being encouraged to seek out snowdrops – and other winter blooms – as the National Garden Scheme reports the moodboosting benefits of being out in green spaces during winter. Looking ahead to summer, we meet Matlock’s deputy mayor, Ashley Orwin, who shares details of the inaugural Pride in the Peaks – a family-friendly, community event promising something for everyone to enjoy.

In news, I was thrilled to hear that the Moors for the Future Partnership has secured a record-breaking investment to fund vital peatland restoration in the Peak District and South Pennines. Having previously worked closely with the MFFP, I’ve seen firsthand the many benefits of moorland restoration – from carbon capture, to reduced flood risk and greater resilience to wildfire. Do you have an unfulfilled ambition? If so, Anna Caig may be just the inspiration you need as she describes how her lifelong dream to become an author has finally come to fruition. There’s lots more, too! So please enjoy this edition of Reflections and we’ll see you next month … when spring will definitely be on the way!

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2026

Editor: Fiona Stubbs

E: editor@bannisterpublications.co.uk

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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

and

News 16, 24, 48, 59, 77, 80

12 Witches, legends and a writer’s dream

As she makes her debut as a published author, Anna Caig tells Fiona Stubbs how the Peak District inspired her to achieve a lifelong ambition

18 Hello snowdrops … Find out where you can discover displays of these hardy little flowers and other winter blooms

30 Pride in the Peaks Matlock’s deputy mayor, Ashley Orwin, meets Fiona Stubbs – and shares news of the town’s inaugural Pride event

34 Antiques

Our antiques expert Vivienne Milburn reveals how advertising ware collectibles hold a special appeal

38 Frosty footpaths and winter walks

Braving freezing temperatures, Marian Scaife discovers the natural world in winter through two Peak District walks

42 Reflections Rewind A journey through our archives to February 2016

44 One breath at a time Is the way we breathe affecting our health, focus and emotional wellbeing? Fiona Stubbs finds out more

61 Crossword

62 The story of Riber Castle

Ahead of an eagerly anticipated presentation, Ken Parker shares an insight into one of Matlock’s most fascinating landmarks

66 Food Review

The George at Hathersage

70 Chef’s Signature Dish

A delicious, slow-cooked venison ragu with Charlie Uwins, head chef at The Scotsman’s Pack in Hathersage

74 Photographic competition

Latest entries in our competition and 2025 winner

78 What’s On

Our guide to events in February

TheWitches, legends and a writer’s dream

A love of Peak District folklore inspired Anna Caig to achieve her dream of becoming a published author, as she explains to Fiona Stubbs

PEAK DISTRICT author Anna Caig was born to write.

Now her lifelong dream has come to fruition with the publication this month of her debut novel, The Wise Witch of Orkney

The story is set in Scotland, but Anna’s inspiration was rooted in the landscapes and legends of her Peak District home.

“You can’t help but be inspired by local legends, from the Bakewell witches to the nine ladies believed to have been turned to stone on Stanton Moor for dancing on a Sunday,” says Anna. “My fascination with folklore and witchcraft – and what might have been going on behind the storiesled me to research and write my book.”

The story of the Bakewell witches has intrigued locals for centuries. A Bakewell landlady, Mrs Stafford, and her assistant were hanged in Derby in 1608 after being accused of witchcraft by a former lodger who was found naked and lost in London.

The man claimed he had heard the women performing a ritual which had subsequently ‘transported’ him to London.

It is believed he had actually been evicted for not paying his rent and Mrs Stafford had kept some of his clothes as payment – but his vengeful accusation was enough to seal the women’s fate.

“This story is typical of a lot of the witch trials in scapegoating women,” says Anna. “Women at the time lived with

Above: Anna as a 10-year-old on the family holiday where she first dreamed of being a novelist

this threat hanging over them. Even if they weren’t actually accused of being witches, the threat affected how they lived their lives, how strong-willed they could be. It was absolutely a way of keeping women down and afraid.”

The Wise Witch of Orkney, Anna weaves historical fact with fiction in a compelling tale of friendship, deception and adventure.

Set in 1593, it follows Elspet Balfour – a wise woman and herbalist - who is summoned from her island home to the court of the witch-hunting King James VI. She must enter court disguised as a lady-inwaiting to care for the pregnant Queen Anna.

While Elspet struggles to keep h er identity secret in a court that wishes her dead, another woman seeks her aid. Kitty Muirhead, unwed and impoverished, is desperate to rid herself of her burdens past and present. Kitty and the queen could not be more different but, with Elspet’s help, they may be each other’s salvation.

Anna’s interest in Orkney was sparked by Amy Liptrot’s memoir, The Outrun, which chronicles the journalist’s return to her Orkney roots to escape the hedonism of life in London.

“There’s a throwaway line in the book where Amy talks about an island in Orkney where witches were marooned and left to die,” says Anna. “It really captured my imagination. I’ve tried to research the island but have never found anything about it, not even a name.

“I did, however, find a story of a lady called Alison Balfour, who was executed for witchcraft in Orkney in 1594 after being implicated in a murder allegation between feuding brothers.

“I was inspired by her story and started writing a book loosely based on elements of her life. As the story developed, I realised that I wasn’t really writing about Alison but my fictional character, Elspet.”

She adds: “At that point, I’d only been to Orkney once, on a family holiday. I’ve been back many times now for research and have fallen in love with it. It’s a place that really gets under your skin. It sounds cheesy but I get the feeling that, if magic is real anywhere, it’s there.”

What makes Orkney so special? “More than anything it’s a feeling,” explains Anna. “The land is relatively small and seems dwarfed by huge skies. There are so many historical monuments. Skara Brae [a 5000-year-old Neolithic village] is one of the most important monuments in the world, its stone houses preserved by sand until it was discovered in 1850.

“There are stone circles and cairns which are thousands of years old. It’s a place where the present and the past are very connected and where there is an incredibly rich story telling heritage.

“Orkney’s folk tales are so inspiring. Its history is very Scandinavian. At the time my book is set, the queen of Scotland is Danish. Queen Anna of Denmark was brought over to marry King James VI as a teenage bride. That part is

“When

researching women, there are so many gaps in the records because women’s lives weren’t considered important. As a writer, that’s both a challenge and an absolute gift. There’s a real space for your imagination to take over.”

true, though I have very much embellished the Scandinavian elements in my book.

“When researching women, there are so many gaps in the records because women’s lives weren’t considered important. As a writer, that’s both a challenge and an absolute gift. There’s a real space for your imagination to take over.”

The book also explores how strongly we feel connected to the place we call home. “For Elspet, this is Orkney, and, for me, it is Derbyshire,” says Anna. “What 18th century novelist and journalist Daniel Defoe called the ‘howling wilderness’ of the Peak District and its stories have got under my skin and inspired me to write.”

Anna moved to the Peak District 18 years ago with her family after first discovering it as an English Literature undergraduate at Sheffield University.

She met her husband, Rob, when they were both students at the university. “One of our first dates was a walk in the Hope Valley,” she recalls.

When the couple found jobs in Manchester and Sheffield, they looked for a base between the two cities and made their home in the village of Bradwell.

Anna values the sense of community she has discovered in the Hope Valley. “I’m part of a village book club and a Tideswell-based running club and the support I’ve had from people is really wonderful.”

She enjoyed a successful career in communications – working in the voluntary sector and local government - but writing remained her true passion. “It was my dream from being a little girl,” she says. “I recently found a photograph of myself when I was 10 on a narrowboat

holiday with my family. I vividly remember scribbling a ‘novel’ called Mandy’s Midnight Mystery into a small hardback notebook while on that holiday.

“Then, when I turned 40, something clicked. On my 40th birthday I had a realisation that writing a book had been my dream for so long and, not only had I not done it, I hadn’t given it a proper shot.

“I started saving up so I could leave my job. It was a big decision to leave my sensible, secure career and put writing at the heart of my life. That was eight years ago. The Wise Witch of Orkney is the third novel I’ve written, but the first to be picked up by a publisher.

“There are lots of different women in the book – from rich and poor backgrounds;

older and younger. I also wanted to explore female friendships. At a time when women had little explicit power, they had to find secret, covert ways to exert agency over their own lives.

“I really care about depicting women in midlife and beyond as living rich, exciting, adventurous lives. There are several of these in The Wise Witch of Orkney. It’s a story very close to my heart. I feel as though I’ve really found myself in my 40s.”

The Wise Witch of Orkney (Hardback £16.99; Kindle edition £8.99) is published on 26th February by Bonnier Books Ltd. Learn more at annacaig.co.uk

Countywide News

What does the Peak District National Park mean to you?

THIS year marks the 75th anniversary of the Peak District becoming the UK’s first national park.

It was designated as a national park on 17th April 1951, followed by the Lake District (9th May), Snowdonia (now Eryri, 18th October) and Dartmoor (30th October).

Here at Reflections, we’re looking forward to celebrating this milestone anniversary and would like to hear from people who live and work in the Peak District and those who love to visit.

Please tell us what the Peak District means to you.

What makes it special?

What do you value the most – its natural landscapes, cultural heritage or ecology?

Are you a hiker, climber, cyclist or horse rider?

Do you relish the chance to tackle challenging terrain or enjoy the outdoors via the Peak District’s accessible trails?

Do you own a business in the Peak District – or enjoy a sense of community in one of its villages?

Please email editor@ bannisterpublications.co.uk – by Friday 6th March - giving your full name, address and a contact telephone number. If you’d like to share a picture along with your words, please attach as a high-res jpeg.

Have your say on decarbonisation plan

A consultation has been launched into plans to capture, transport and lock away carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from cement and lime production at plants in Derbyshire and Staffordshire. ProdProducers including Tarmac

(Tunstead), Breedon (Hope), Buxton Lime (Tunstead) and Holcim (Cauldon) have come together with Progressive Energy, Summit Energy Evolution Ltd, Spirit Energy and the National Wealth Fund to form Peak Cluster Limited.

It is proposing to capture CO2 and to transport it via a secure underground pipeline to a permanent storage site deep beneath the East Irish Sea.

Derbyshire and Staffordshire produce 40% of the UK’s cement and lime, however significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) are released into the atmosphere as the products are made.

The consultation runs until Friday 27th February. Learn more at https://peakcluster.co.uk

New year, new show – Classic Ibiza returns to Chatsworth

CLASSIC Ibiza returns to Chatsworth in July, promising a bigger, better – and longer - show.

The new-look concert, on Saturday 11 July, will feature a new live chill-out set by Urban Soul Orchestra (USO), fresh DJ sets and more guest vocals from members of London Community Gospel Choir (LCGC).

Classic Ibiza’s Lisa Ward says: “Last summer’s 10th anniversary tour was our most successful ever in terms of audience numbers and the plaudits we received up and down the country. People particularly loved the euphoric wall-ofsound created by Stephen Hussey’s Urban Soul Orchestra and London Community Gospel Choir. The concert was so good that they wanted it to last longer, so that’s exactly what we’re giving them.”

She adds: “This summer’s extended programme is going to take the show to new heights. It goes without saying that we’ll be showcasing everyone’s favourite house anthems, but I’m particularly looking forward to USO working their magic on some classic chill-out tracks.”

For tickets, visit: www.

classicibiza/chatsworth

Below: Classic Ibiza Dance Set

Hello snowdrops … the first signs of spring

THE mood-boosting benefits of time spent outdoors are widely recognised.

Now, research commissioned by the National Garden Scheme shows that the improvement is even more marked during winter months.

Snowdrops are a welcome sight in the late winter, reminding us that spring is just around the corner, while hellebores, aconites and flowering shrubs are appearing too.

Many NGS members are opening their gardens in February and March - raising money for health and nursing charities.

The Old Vicarage in Middleton-byWirksworth opens on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th February (11am to 3pm). This country-style garden also boasts an indoor fernery where you can enjoy hot drinks and cakes.

Fern Bank in Wirksworth opens on Sunday 8th March (11am to 4pm). Set in a small former quarry, it features lots of spring flowering bulbs.

NGS Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton says: “Getting out into a garden or green space in the winter is a fabulous way to boost depleted energy levels.

“Not only does being outside help reduce stress levels and blood pressure but it’s also when your vitamin D is at its lowest, making winter sunshine hugely beneficial. Whatever the weather, wrapping up warm and enjoying the first delicate signs of spring - and enjoying them with others - is a real tonic after the long dark days of winter.”

• To explore more gardens open for the Snowdrop Festival in Derbyshire and further afield head to the National Garden Scheme website at www.ngs.org.uk

Snowdrop factfile

Snowdrops normally flower in January and February and are often found in woodland, along riverbanks, in parks, gardens, meadows and scrub.

They have become associated with the change in seasons and a sign that warmer weather is on the way – and as a symbol of hope for better times ahead.

The snowdrop’s native range is mainland Europe.

It’s believed that snowdrops were introduced to the UK as an ornamental garden plant as early as the 16th century.

They were not recorded in the wild until the late 18th century.

The flower has a long association with the Christian festival of Candlemas and was often used to decorate churches during the celebration. This earned it the alternative name of Candlemas Bells.

Hopton Hall, near Wirksworth, hosts its annual Snowdrop Walk throughout February. The 1.25-mile walk through the grounds, rich in snowdrops, takes around 45 minutes to complete. A quicker route is available for those who prefer a shorter walk. For more details visit: https://www.hoptonhall. co.uk/the-snowdrop-walk

LEONIDE INTERIORS: REDEFINING THE SHOWROOM EXPERIENCE

ON entering the Leonide Interiors showroom on Spa Lane in Chesterfield, visitors are welcomed into over 50 inspirational kitchen and bathroom displays, enhanced with striking new installations reflecting the latest European design innovation.

This is more than a showroom - it is a design destination, creative studio and benchmark for premium interiors across Chesterfield, Bakewell, Baslow, Matlock, Ashbourne and Belper.

Often described as a ‘Tardis showroom’, Leonide blends minimalist style with creative flair, offering collections that maximise light, space and flow across both contemporary and traditional interiors.

INNOVATIVE AND INSPIRATIONAL

Leonide showcases intelligent design and technological innovation throughout. Statement freestanding Copper and Polished Nickel baths command attention with handcrafted character

and sculptural impact. The ‘Sunshower’ infrared system introduces wellness-focused heat therapy and vitaminenhancing light technology.

Alongside this, Aqualisa smart showers deliver precision temperature control and personalised settings, while Ambience Bain provides coordinated wet room solutions and bespoke bathroom furniture.

A NEW ERA OF TILES

Leonide leads locally with large-format porcelain slabs, translucent Italian marbleeffect prints and textured 3D surfaces. Larger tiles create

fewer grout lines, easier maintenance and seamless visual impact. Matching mosaics, book-matched veining and sculptural finishes add depth and character.

LED shadow-gap lighting, floating pelmets and architectural recess lighting further elevate modern interiors.

KITCHENS THAT REDEFINE LIVING

Leonide’s kitchen offering now includes premium Italian brand Arredo 3, delivering porcelainfronted cabinetry in finishes ranging from satin matt to high-gloss stone effects.

Durable, practical and visually striking, these kitchens balance performance with design.

Mitred-edge detailing introduces precision craftsmanship, while Neff downdraft induction hobs provide intelligent extraction and even heat distribution for consistent cooking performance.

BEYOND KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS

Leonide delivers complete interior solutions including bedrooms, utility rooms, cloakrooms, home offices, entertainment spaces and full-house transformations. This end-to-end approach ensures seamless coordination from concept to completion.

UNRIVALLED EXPERTISE

Founder Paul Pearson leads a highly skilled team including bathroom specialist Darrell Grafton and Interior Designer and Project Manager Nabil Audie. Leonide operates seven to ten dedicated fitting teams with expertise across tiling, electrics, plumbing and cabinetry - vital for today’s large-format porcelain, mitred edges and architectural lighting installations.

Project Management, led by Lee Fletcher, oversees every phase, ensuring efficiency, clarity and minimal disruption.

RELAXED, CONSULTATIVE APPROACH

Leonide offers a calm, pressure-free showroom experience. Clients are guided collaboratively using advanced 3D CAD visualisation software, allowing layouts,

finishes and lighting to be explored with confidence before installation begins.

AWARD-WINNING REPUTATION

Leonide has been recognised with Bathroom Showroom of the Year at the BKU Awards alongside multiple nominations. More importantly, a strong base of returning clients reflects trust, satisfaction and long-term loyalty.

THAT LOYALTY SPEAKS VOLUMES.

To book an appointment or for further enquiries:

T: 01246 237744

M: 07746 720071

Leonide Interiors, Spa Lane, Chesterfield, S41 7UX

E: info@leonideinteriors.co.uk www.leonideinteriors.co.uk

Peak District champion receives MBE

PIONEERING Peak District community champion Yvonne Witter has received an MBE for her services in helping people to access nature.

Yvonne, who is chair of trustees at Peak District Mosaic, was awarded the MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. She was presented with the award by the Princess Royal in a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Yvonne says: “I feel very honoured to represent my community and for my community to be able to work with me and access nature in the Peak District and surrounding areas.

“Without my community, I wouldn’t be where I am today. This award is for all the people who I serve and all those who have supported me and worked with me to achieve what we have.”

Peak District Mosaic is a communityfocused charity which creates and sustains engagement between the national park and new audiences.

It runs events to help people experience and explore the Peak District and raises awareness of the UK’s national parks. It also offers opportunities to people from diverse communities to become community champions.

Yvonne, who was born in Burton-onTrent and lives in Sheffield, adds: “The Peak District is my second home. It’s where I can find peace and solitude. It helps me to recharge. It also reminds me of my childhood growing up in Jamaica, exploring and enjoying the hills, woodlands, rivers and the tranquillity of the countryside.

“The Peak District is a haven to me and I’m always looking for new ways to support people to enhance their health and wellbeing by connecting with nature. There are so many benefits. Experiencing

the countryside and nature can help you to de-stress and meet new people and families can enjoy time together.”

• Former Derbyshire and England cricketer Devon Malcolm received an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours and also received his award from the Princess Royal at Windsor.

The fast bowler, who started his professional career at Derbyshire in 1984, was recognised for his work in promoting diversity in cricket.

£3.81m to tackle ash dieback disease in Derbyshire

DERBYSHIRE County Council is setting aside £3.81m to fund the removal of trees affected by ash dieback disease.

The disease is already widespread across the county and is expected to infect between 50% and 90% of the ash tree population over the next 10 to 20 years. It kills trees, making them brittle and unstable, with the potential for falling, posing a risk to public safety.

The programme will include schemes to remove high volumes of trees which pose a risk to public safety in the north of the county – particularly in the High Peak and the Derbyshire Dales – as well as work to remove smaller clusters of diseased trees countywide.

Locations with trees at the highest risk of falling onto a road or public footpath will be removed first.

Landowners who suspect ash dieback on their property are urged to consult a tree professional. Anyone who spots a tree while out and about and is concerned about its safety can report it at www. derbyshire.gov.uk/ashdieback or via email ashdieback@derbyshire.gov.uk

Belper launches year-long celebration of its industrial past and vibrant present

MORE than 100 events will this year mark Belper’s history as a cradle of the industrial revolution.

Belper 250 celebrations will combine community, heritage and creativity - reviving old traditions and creating new ones.

Local historian and festival originator, Adrian Farmer, says: “We will mark the 250th anniversary of pioneering industrialist Jedidiah Strutt’s first waterpowered cotton mill - a development which quickly transformed Belper into the world’s first factory town. The Strutts not only built the mills, but also housing, schools and leisure facilities for their growing workforce, creating one of the earliest planned industrial communities.

“There will be something for everyone during this unique 12-month extravaganza, whatever your age or interest. Notable highlights include a reimagining of the famous ‘Donkey Derby’ parade and Town Carnival, a ‘Struttybanger’ competition to craft a new signature sausage, horticultural shows and heritage walks and talks, as well as a River Derwent cruise.”

For up-to-date information on the festival’s events programme, booking, sponsorship and volunteering opportunities, go to: www.belper250.co.uk

JANUARY – ‘DIVORCE MONTH’ – BRINGS SURGE IN DIVORCE ENQUIRIES

THE start of the New Year is traditionally one of the busiest periods for family law firms due to a surge in enquiries following Christmas and the New Year, with January often known as ‘divorce month’.

Here at Graysons, our family team is dealing with a rise in calls from couples who’ve reached tipping point and are overwhelmed with money worries and relationship pressure.

Megan Wroe, head of the firm’s family team, says:

“Divorce is never something people should rush into, and wherever possible it should be avoided. When separation does happen, understanding the financial implications and dealing with them properly at the outset can prevent serious and costly problems emerging later on.”

While the introduction of no-fault divorce has simplified the legal process of ending a marriage, it does not deal with financial arrangements.

A growing number of couples are completing do-it-yourself or online divorces without achieving financial finality. Without a legally binding consent order approved by the court, former partners can remain financially connected long after the divorce itself is finalised, leaving open the possibility of future claims against property, savings and pensions.

Pensions are a particular area of risk. Despite often being one of the most valuable assets

built up during a marriage, they are frequently overlooked or misunderstood during separation, especially where one partner assumes a pension held in their own name is protected. National figures underline the scale of the issue. In the first three months of 2025 alone, almost 12,000 financial remedy applications were made to family courts in England and Wales, highlighting how many separating couples still require formal legal intervention to resolve money matters.

Megan says: “A surge in financial anxiety often coincides

with increased relationship strain. While debt does not cause separation, financial pressure, particularly after the Christmas period can lead to reflection about the year ahead and cause great strain. For couples who are already struggling, that pressure can make separation feel urgent and existing difficulties intensify, leading more couples to seek advice during January.”

Contact Graysons family law team for advice now.

Supporting Megan is senior family law solicitor Angela Moores, who has more than 30 years’ experience advising

on financial settlements, including complex and highvalue cases and a newly qualified solicitor, Isabella Franchini, who deals with a range of family law matters. Together with the wider family team at Graysons, they are urging anyone facing relationship difficulties this January to seek early guidance, understand their options fully and protect their longterm financial security.

Unit 14F, The Glass Yard, Sheffield Road, Chesterfield. S41 8JY

Email: info@graysons.co.uk Tel: 01246 229393

Graysonslaw @Graysonslaw www.graysons.co.uk Contact the Team on 01246 229393

VISION OF

unity,joy…respect and A

love

Ashley in the Hall Leys Park bandstand, which will host a DJ set during

AS MATLOCK PREPARES TO HOST THE INAUGURAL PRIDE IN THE PEAKS, FIONA STUBBS MEETS THE CHARISMATIC ASHLEY

ORWIN, ONE OF THE EVENT’S FOUNDERS

MORNING coffee with Matlock’s deputy mayor is a convivial experience.

Judging by the number of customers who stop by our table in the busy coffee shop for a quick greeting, it appears that most people in the town know Coun Ashley Orwin.

Which is surely fortuitous for local politics - and establishes Ashley as the popular face of the inaugural Pride in the Peaks, which launches in Matlock’s Hall Leys Park on 27th June.

Ashley is buzzing with ideas for the event and is heavily involved in

fundraising activities to make it a successful community experience.

He says: “We want it to be inclusive of everybody – a community joining together in love. It will be a family friendly, all-day event with something for everyone to enjoy.

“We’re planning a main stage area for big performers, a DJ set in the band stand, a family area and a cabaret tent.”

Ashley joined the town council in May 2024 and a year later was appointed deputy mayor. “I was totally up for the challenge,” he says. “I think it’s good to offer some youthful energy.

“When I joined the town council, one of my suggestions was that Matlock needed to be more colourful - with more flowers and plants etc. My colleagues said that would take money to install and maintain. So, we agreed to meet halfway by introducing colour through flags – including the Union flag, St George’s flag, Derbyshire flag and Pride, to be put up sporadically. There was no political agenda.”

about Matlock town council is that it’s always trying to generate ideas and develop the community through events.

“It was always in the background that Pride needed to here. But, of course, it would take a lot of budget and planning. After the conversation about flags, this seemed a good way to do something positive.”

“We’re planning a main stage area for big performers, a DJ set in the band stand, a family area and a cabaret tent.”

A task force was set up to organise and oversee the event. Ashley, his business partner Jamie Hadleigh and Matlock Mayor Coun Marilyn Franks were founding members and enlisted the help of Caroline MacIntosh and Holly Botros of Thrive PR and Events, Sam Smith, co-owner of Matlock’s Deception Escape Rooms and Tom Hendry, Head of Sustainability for Chatsworth and the Devonshire Group.

Some controversy over a placing of the Pride flag led to a wider conversation in the town … which ultimately led to the idea for Pride in the Peaks.

Ashley explains: “The lovely thing

The task force is engaging with local LGBTQIA+ groups, schools, faith communities, businesses and volunteers with a vision ‘to create a Pride celebration that reflects the heart of Matlock – one that embraces unity, respect, joy and love.’

A diverse range of fundraisers has so far included a Drag Brunch at Chatsworth’s

Cavendish Hall, a Hallowe’en event, a burlesque workshop and a Christmas jumper walk in the Peak District.

“The energy is gorgeous,” enthuses Ashley. “It’s all about people feeling safe and having a great time with each other. To me, it’s about people being able to be themselves, whether straight or LGBTQIA+.

“We’re building awareness and trust in the brand. We’ve all got our own qualities which we bring to the task force table.”

Ashley was born in Sheffield and grew up in Chesterfield, before moving to London, aged 15, to pursue a career as a ballet dancer.

He spent 15 years performing in London’s West End and touring internationally with companies including Rambert, Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake and The Royal Opera House.

His screen credits include performing as a Death Eater in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, dancing with Miss Piggy in The Muppets Most Wanted and appearing in the film Anna Karenina, which starred Keira Knightley. A career pivot into high-end customer service saw him spend three years as a First Class cabin steward with British Airways before co-founding hair and beauty salon Aspire Creative in Matlock in 2020.

“After 15 years in ballet, I knew I was ready to leave my dancing career on a high,” recalls Ashley. “I just missed the green grass of home. All my family are very close and I was ready to come back to the green of Derbyshire.”

He met his Aspire Creative business partner, Jamie Hadleigh, through business development training and networking and together they have developed the award-winning salon on Bank Road. Jamie is the artistic force leading the hairdressing team, while Ashley is front of house and salon manager.

Ashley relishes life in Derbyshire for allowing him to ‘combine creativity, community and activism’.

He says: “The salon is a community. We are all friends – in fact, a lot of clients say they like to come in for the community.

“I love this town. Matlock has done everything for Jamie and me. It’s the home of our business. I love it so much, it’s full of eccentrics in the nicest possible way!

“It’s more than just the town itself. Matlock, to me, encompasses Wirksworth, Tansley etc. It’s the whole of the Derbyshire Dales community. There’s so much to do and there are so many charismatic, creative people in this area.”

His work at the salon is in perfect

synergy with his political role – allowing Ashley to understand life at grassroots level and to feed back comments and concerns to council colleagues.

“That connection with the community is really helpful,” he adds. “You hear everything that people are finding pleasant or struggling with. It’s nice to bring that information to the council from the force which is the community.”

Learn more at www.prideinthepeaks. org and @prideinthepeak

Email: hello@prideinthepeaks.org

ADVERTISING WARE AND COLLECTABLES

ADVERTISING ware

acts as a form of social history, capturing the mood and values of a particular era more vividly than many traditional antiques – and ensuring its continued prominence in the auction market.

Advertising ware collectables occupy a distinctive position in the antiques and auction market, sitting at the intersection of commerce, design, nostalgia and social history.

Once created as purely promotional items, these objects were never intended

Left: A top lot at a recent specialist auction was this enamel sign, for Fry’s Pure Concentrated Cocoa. It made £1,800

By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer

to last. Ironically, it is precisely this disposability that now makes them desirable. Their survival helps explain why advertising ware has become increasingly fashionable at auction.

In the19th century, advertising shifted to visual branding that could be instantly recognised - branding tins, enamel signs, ceramics, glassware and shop fittings. These items embedded brands into our daily life.

The 20th century brought further shifts in advertising, with the rise of mass media, youth culture and lifestyle branding.

At auction, it appeals to a broad range of buyers. Traditional collectors may be drawn to rarity and historical importance, while interior designers and lifestyle buyers value the visual impact of bold graphics and iconic logos. This crossover appeal has helped drive demand and prices.

Above: From a country house near Matlock, a 20th century mirror for Fry’s Chocolate, made £160 despite being damaged.

Nostalgia also plays a powerful role. It often evokes memories of familiar brands from childhood. Auctions thrive on this emotional engagement, where bidders are not just buying objects but stories and personal associations.

A particularly strong example is material associated with Biba. Founded in the 1960s by Barbara Hulanicki, Biba was not just a fashion brand but a complete lifestyle concept with its Pop and psychedelic aesthetics.

Also, examples of J. S. Fry & Sons’ chocolate advertising ware included collectible postcards and posters, notably the iconic “Five Boys” campaign from the late 19th century that remains sought after by memorabilia collectors.

Advertising ware collectables are fashionable at auction because they combine visual appeal, historical insight and emotional resonance. Brands such as Fry’s Chocolate and Biba demonstrate how powerful branding and cultural relevance can raise advertising ware from promotional material to highly desirable collectables.

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

Frosty footpaths: winter walking in the Peaks

Spurred on by wintry sunshine and undeterred by freezing temperatures, Marian Scaife shares her insights of the natural world in two traditional Peak District walks

Lathkill Dale in the White Peak

AROBIN eyes me woefully as I approach the mouth of Lathkill Head Cave. I sense its reluctance to fly. The inflated feathers create a balllike appearance and the slow, hopeful foraging among the rocks suggests energy is precious and movement is costly.

An icy blast of Arctic air has greeted the start of 2026 and I’m walking east from Monyash through Ricklow Quarry and Lathkill Dale in the heart of the White Peak. A sprinkling of frozen snow grips the moss on the limestone rocks.

The south facing slopes benefit from the low sun. A kestrel hovers above the grassland, scanning for the urine trails of voles. The ground is still frozen, cutting off the invertebrate food supply to small mammals and some bird species. After a few minutes the kestrel gives up and flies north.

The reduced daylight, colder temperatures and scarcity of food mean wild animals must adapt to survive harsh winters. East of Ricklow Quarry I notice molehills. These subterranean mammals respond to a colder climate by digging deeper and decrease their energy needs by shrinking their brains!

The brain is a calorie demanding organ and for highly active mammals such as shrews, stoats and weasels,

smaller brain and skull sizes are a cold temperature survival trade-off.

Lathkill Head Cave is one of the winter water sources of the River Lathkill. Today the mouth of the cave is dry. I take comfort when I see a grey wagtail strutting through the shallows of running water fed by natural ground water springs downstream.

Although life looks bleak for species subsisting along the bottom of the valley – the vascular plants and grasses droop with cold and dehydration – this is a stark contrast to life on the sunny side of the dale.

A raven flies out from limestone outcrop issuing a vocal protest to a family who have scrambled up the scree to sit in the sunshine and eat their lunch. Next month this species along with its corvid cousins will be nesting.

From the top of the south facing sunfilled slope, two Brown Hares chase each other out into the open to box, oblivious to the onlookers. This is January madness. I’m reluctant to judge the behaviour of wild animals but it seems unfair that the female must ward off the attention of a male suitor in such inhospitable conditions.

Within minutes of this spectacle, ominous grey and yellow clouds rumble across the sky and hefty snowflakes begin to land. At least the air temperature must be rising just a tad.

As the sun sets, boulders and rocks emit a red hue

Dark Peak’s Big Moor and the Edges

It’s a day for big skies and horizons. I’m walking north along White Edge with views of Big Moor to the east and the farmland shoulders of the River Derwent to the west. It’s bright and sunny and the severity of the windchill means I can feel the cold penetrating my mouth through the side of my cheek. The path is daubed with patches of ice and frost.

Geologically speaking I’m on the east side of the horseshoe-shaped arc of millstone grit that dominates the Dark Peak and encapsulates most of White Peak. Etched in stone and buried in the acidic peat are relics and reminders that this was a working landscape in the Bronze Age.

The golds, dark mauves and greens of the moorland vegetation change continuously with the lowering sun. Out on the moor a herd of red deer graze, their red coats have been replaced with thick brown fur allowing Britain’s largest mammal to blend in surprisingly well with the habitat.

Occasionally a stag lifts his head displaying antlers which will be cast in spring, making way for the growth of a new pair to see him through the autumn rut. In winter, red deer relinquish their territorial

disputes and opt for warmth in numbers, forming mixed herds of hinds, stags and juveniles. As the lush vegetation dies back over winter their diet becomes woodier and with less nutritional value leaving them to rely on fat reserves. Some stags may not have replenished these after the autumn rut; their survival is uncertain.

Descending from the moorland, I cross streams in the cloughs that lead to the Derwent. Sub-zero temperatures have caused the formation of icicles and globules of glazed ice along the edges of streams. Some of the shapes seem alien in the context of the natural environment they sit in.

Back out in the open I walk south on the top of Froggatt and Curbar Edge. The cold, clear conditions have rewarded me with far reaching views but encounters with wild animals have been limited. Right on cue, a male stonechat lands close by, flying from rock to rock. Described as a ‘restless’ bird by William Wordsworth this species is named after its call, part of which sounds like two stones being hit or ‘chacked’ together. Foraging stonechats like a low perch from which to scan the ground for invertebrates but, on a day like this, seeds and berries may have to do.

As the sun sets, the boulders and rocks - their layers sculpted by ice, wind and water - emit a red hue. People gather in small groups to photograph their silhouettes among the dramatic rocky outlines. This landscape invokes a sense of exploration and play. A sunset is a natural phenomenon that unifies all humans.

Reflections Rewind

WE couldn’t help but notice the current social media trend for all things 2016.

As a wave of nostalgia washes across the internet - seeping into mainstream media, too - it seems only fitting that Reflections should turn back the clock 10 years for this month’s Rewind.

Our February 2016 edition featured a romantic cover – with Valentine’s Day and spring weddings very much in mind.

While many of us grappled with the cold and darkness of winter and counted the days to spring, Louise Baker suggested that February was a ‘wonderful time of year’ for appreciating Derbyshire’s wildlife.

Another keen observer of landscapes was painter and

printmaker Susan Tracey, who described her love of capturing magical reflections in streams and rivers in her art, using mostly oil on linen or mixed media on paper.

And, just as now, there were echoes of the Industrial Revolution. Currently in the news is the 250th anniversary of industrialist

Jedidiah Strutt’s first waterpowered cotton mill, which transformed Belper into the world’s first factory town.

In February 2016 we marked the 300th anniversary of the birth of canal pioneer James Brindley. One of history’s great engineers, Derbyshire-born Brindley was responsible for eight waterways which had a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, overcoming transport constraints to unlock the country’s trade potential.

Shaping our health … one breath at a time

Is the way we breathe affecting our health, Fiona Stubbs

REATHING.

t’s a part of life we all take for granted as something we just do. But are we doing it right? How we breathe is emerging as a key factor in the lives of both adults and children – from mental and physical health, to focus and learning, to sleep patterns and long-term brain health.  Derbyshire-based Charlotte Marsh discovered the benefits of breath work 20 years ago when she was advised to practise Pilates as part of rehabilitation for a back injury. The results spurred her to investigate further and led to a career as a breath coach, Pilates teacher, speaker and award-winning author. Now, through her business, Benefits of Better Breathing, she helps adults – through online courses and workplace wellness sessions - to manage stress, ease anxiety and reduce pain. She also teaches Pilates and breathwork to children in

school workshops and through her book Susie Sloth and her Secret Superpower.

“Better breathing can transform everything, from focus at work to patience at home,” explains Charlotte. “In our busy lives, we don’t consciously consider how we are moving, how we are feeling – until we don’t feel right.

“Your brain is constantly sensing how you breathe. Breathing is a core part of the nervous system. In many ways it’s a very complicated system and research is still coming out. But, on the other hand, it’s quite simple. You can either breathe fast or slow, with big breaths or light breaths.

“When stressed, we tend to shift to faster, shallower breathing. As a result,

“How we breathe is emerging as a key factor in the lives of both adults and children –from mental and physical health, to focus and learning, to sleep patterns and long-term brain health.”

Feather light breathing … an easy prop to encourage children to breathe gently, using light breaths without ruffling the feather when they exhale

the balance of gases in the blood changes. The brain may interpret this as a signal that we are not safe, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and heightened stress

“When calm, we’re taking slow, light breaths so our nervous system is receiving a signal that all is well. Learning to breathe properly through our nose is also a key element. It’s about calm breathing, sending a message that the body is safe.”

She adds: “Anxiety is a form of mental unease. We may experience a racing heart, clammy hands, breathing too fast, feeling butterflies.

“The feelings can be similar to excitement, receiving an accolade, scoring a goal, the anticipation before going somewhere exciting. The difference is the thoughts and stories going through your head. When a child experiences anxiety for the first time, we may say, ‘There’s

nothing wrong - you’re OK.’ But if the distress is coming from the body itself, that message clashes with what the brain is sensing. You can’t override physiological signals with reassurance alone.

“What children need is a better understanding of their breathing and, if they want to calm themselves down, how to use light and slow breaths. In my school workshops, I teach children how to breathe through gentle movement and play. When you engage with young children, it has to be story-based. Children learn by playing and having fun.

“We learn the difference between nasal and mouth breathing - nasal breathing activates 50% more brain areas for memory and executive function, so it’s key for learning.”

Charlotte says: “From birth, children naturally breathe as nature intended. However, as they grow, factors such as frequent colds, environmental influences and modern lifestyles can disrupt this natural pattern. Over time, changes in breathing can impact both their physical and mental health, even influencing their long-term well-being.”

She believes the benefits of breathing correctly are more important than ever for teenagers as they face pressures from their school and digital lives.

Above: Breathing exercises at a corporate event

She has developed a Breathe Smart workshop specifically for teens.

“Research shows that around one in three teenagers have anxiety,” she says. “It’s definitely more common. It’s challenging. Children and teenagers are well-informed these days, they have access to a lot of information at their fingertips.”

Charlotte’s own wellness journey began 20 years ago, with a back injury when she was eight-and-a-half months pregnant with her first child.

“I didn’t want surgery as a new mum,” she recalls. “I went through rehab and was advised to do Pilates, which led me to do my own research into breathing.”

She became a Pilates teacher and went on to complete a range of breathing-related courses from a variety of backgrounds, including Tai Chi, Yoga and Conscious Breathwork.

“It opened my eyes to how influential breath can be to sleep, anxiety, trauma and

stress recovery and pain management,” adds Charlotte. “The deeper I studied this subject, the more I knew I had to share this information with other movement teachers, other breath workers and with anyone passionate about their physical and mental health.”

One of Charlotte’s earliest interventions was to help her own daughter. “When my daughter was eight, I noticed she had an unusual breathing pattern,” she remembers. “I had enough training at that point to recognise it, and I was grateful I could support her early using simple breathing exercises. I saw a paradoxical breathing pattern, where the chest and abdomen move in the opposite direction to what we’d expect. It’s usually straightforward to address, but left unrecognised, it can place unnecessary strain on breathing, sleep and the nervous system.”

Charlotte trained in the Buteyko Breathing Method, developed By Dr Konstantin Buteyko to manage symptoms of various conditions, including asthma, anxiety and sleep disorders and has worked with GPs campaigning for more health and education professionals to be aware of the long-term implications of dysfunctional breathing in childhood.

• Learn more at: https://www. benefitsofbetterbreathing.co.uk

RECORD-BREAKING

PRIVATE INVESTMENT TO HELP TRANSFORM PEATLAND LANDSCAPES

MOORS for the Future Partnership is set to deliver its most ambitious peatland conservation programme so far in the Peak District and south Pennines.

A five-year peatland restoration plan is being funded by a natural capital investment of up to £25 million from a collective of private finance partners.

Severn Trent, United Utilities and Yorkshire Water are part of the partnership investing millions in peatland restoration, with the aim of improving water quality, increasing wildfire resilience and reducing risk of flooding in towns and highway infrastructure in areas of Derbyshire, West and South Yorkshire.

This comes alongside additional investment from other partners including National Highways, National Trust and RSPB. Locations for the work include moorlands near to Sheffield, Buxton, Glossop and Halifax.

Since the Industrial Revolution, the moorlands of the Peak District and South Pennines have suffered from the legacy of centuries of pollution from the coal-fired factories that once surrounded them.

These important landscapes are gradually being restored, thanks to Moors for the Future Partnership working to reverse this damage. Established in 2003, the Partnership provides evidence-based conservation, backed up by innovative public engagement.

With over 250 square kilometres of blanket bog restored and £50m raised to date, the Partnership is now set to deliver the highest five-year level of investment yet into the region’s peatlands through its Moor Resilience 2030 project.

The £25 million green finance investment is part of an even wider programme which will ensure a boost for crucial ecosystem services provided by peatlands, such as water storage, increased water quality and biodiversity. This investment is significant in that it is not grant or government-funded, but linked to the water companies’ upcoming Asset Management Plan (AMP). This five-year period, set by Ofwat, mandates performance targets and investment in capital assets, including natural assets such as peatlands.

As part of their responsibilities, Severn Trent, United Utilities and Yorkshire Water have invested in Moors for the Future Partnership’s work in recognition of the multiple benefits it can bring for the companies and their customers.

The moorland landscapes of the Peak District and South Pennines contain globally rare peatlands, including blanket bog habitats. These habitats are amongst the most important the UK has to offer, with 10–15% of the world’s blanket bog found here, and a quarter of those found in England.

They are globally rare and store 580 million tonnes of carbon worldwide. Peat is the single biggest store of carbon in the UK, locking in the equivalent of 20 years of all UK CO2 emissions and keeping it out of the atmosphere, a powerful tool in tackling climate change.

Healthy moors provide good quality drinking water, with 70% of the UK’s drinking water coming from upland landscapes. Moorland restoration work also helps to reduce the risk of flooding to homes, businesses and road infrastructure in nearby communities. Moorland wildlife species such as curlew, mountain hares and short-eared owls will benefit from habitat restoration.

Matt Scott-Campbell, Partnership Manager at Moors for the Future Partnership, said: “After 20+ years of successful Partnership working with blended finance, we have together secured an unprecedented level of private finance, demonstrating what is possible when nature is recognised as vital national infrastructure.

“Working in partnership, with strongly aligned values and shared outcomes, is a costeffective way to restore nature and realise the huge potential of multiple co-benefits that result from moorland restoration and healthy peatlands.

“This level of investment ensures that the Partnership can continue to make progress at an increasing pace towards the achievement of our vision through cutting edge conservation backed up by strong science and supported by proactive engagement with the surrounding communities to cherish, value and protect these amazing habitats.”

• Severn Trent has been part of the Moors for the Future Partnership since 2015 and has invested in the condition of the habitats within the Bamford Catchment – the area around the Derwent Valley and Ladybower Reservoirs.

This has included working in collaboration with multiple partner members of Moors for the Future Partnership, including the National Trust, and has seen nature recovery in the High Peak through successive projects including, most recently, the Moor Water project (2020–25).

New Year. New Look. New Flooring. HOLYWELL CARPETS

Step into 2026 with Style, Quality, and Confidence

AS we welcome the arrival of 2026, many of us feel inspired to make positive changes - to refresh our homes, elevate our surroundings, and start the year with a renewed sense of energy. One of the most effective ways to transform a space is to update its flooring. A new carpet or vinyl doesn’t just change how a room looks; it reshapes how it feels, adding comfort, warmth, and character.

Flooring sits at the heart of every room, influencing the mood, the flow, and the overall sense of harmony. A fresh floor can instantly sharpen a space, modernise it, or make it feel more inviting. Whether you want to brighten up a tired living room, inject personality into a hallway, or give

your home a unified, stylish look, the right flooring can deliver a transformation that is both striking and long-lasting.

A refreshed floor breathes new life into even the most familiar spaces, setting the tone for the year ahead. Whether you’re modernising a single room or rethinking your entire home, Holywell Carpets offers the expertise, quality, and service to help you make that transformation with confidence and ease.

Integrity: The Key to Lasting Success

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

As is so often the case with longestablished family businesses, Holywell Carpets has stood the test of time by delivering unparalleled customer service, uncompromising integrity, and unswerving reliability.

Long-standing and loyal employee Martin Howroyd now leads the business, having worked there for 39 years. A trained fitter with 25 years “on the tools”, he knows the flooring trade inside out - experience that brings real assurance to customers. Martin receives front-of-house assistance from his wife, Marie, whose in-depth knowledge of the carpet business is invaluable.

Traditional Values That Matter

Martin takes pride in the values that underpin Holywell Carpets’ continued success. “If I wouldn’t have a particular carpet in my home, I won’t put it in yours,” he says. “Our business is based

on a high moral code, and honesty is at the very core of what we do.”

Better Prices Through ACG Membership

Holywell Carpets is part of the Associated Carpet Group (ACG) - a national buying group of over 320 independent retailers. This collective strength enables Holywell Carpets to secure the best trading terms with leading suppliers, meaning customers benefit from excellent value and highly competitive pricing.

Derbyshire

Trusted Trader

As a Derbyshire Trusted Trader, Holywell Carpets adheres to rigorous standards of fairness, reliability, and quality. Customers can feel confident that they are dealing with a vetted, reputable, and trustworthy business.

What Customers Say

Derbyshire Trusted Trader Review

“Very efficient from purchase to fitting. Very courteous and they did everything they

said they would. I highly recommend them and will not look anywhere else when I replace the next carpet. Excellent carpets.”

Selected Customer Reviews

Claudia Paige

“Amazing - from when we first went in the shop to finishing our stairs. Great customer service, great communication, and the best variety of carpets I’ve seen in a carpet shop. If you’re looking for something unique, this is the place. We looked for months and this was the only shop with exactly what we wanted. Highly recommend.”

Tracey Morris

“Fantastic customer service, great choice of carpet and perfect fitting. I’d never go anywhere else!”

Jason Thomas

“First-class service. Very polite and helpful staff. My bedroom carpet looks amazing. Will recommend - 10/10.”

A Company Defined by Honesty, Reliability, and Care

If you’re seeking an honest, courteous, and dependable service - delivered by people who take real pride in their work - look no further than Holywell Carpets.

Holywell Carpets, 40 St Mary’s Gate, Chesterfield, S41 7TH T: 01246 272 835  M: 07733 889430 E: enquiry@holywellcarpets.co.uk www.holywellcarpets.co.uk

CARING FOR YOUR VISION AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE

Low Vision Awareness Month, AMD, and How Derbyshire Opticians Can Help

Low Vision Awareness Month highlights the importance of understanding sight loss and the role early detection and local eye care play in protecting long-term vision. One of the most common causes of low vision later in life is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a condition affecting central vision and everyday tasks such as reading and recognising faces.

Across Matlock, Bakewell, and Dronfield, Derbyshire Opticians supports patients at every stage of life with professional eye care, personalised advice, and accessible appointment options.

Understanding AMD and the Importance of Eye Exams

AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It usually develops after the age of 50 and exists in two forms: dry AMD, which progresses slowly, and wet AMD, which is less common but more aggressive.

Early AMD may have no obvious symptoms, making regular eye examinations

essential. At Derbyshire Opticians, comprehensive eye tests are designed to detect subtle changes early, allowing for monitoring, advice, and timely referral when needed.

Support for Low Vision

Low vision does not mean total blindness. Many people retain useful vision and benefit from professional guidance. During Low Vision Awareness Month, Derbyshire Opticians encourages individuals to seek support, offering advice on visual aids, specialist lenses, lighting, and referrals to low vision services to help maintain independence and quality of life.

Protecting Eye Health Through Lifestyle

fish, and key nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, and zinc supports retinal health. Managing screen time using the 20-20-20 rule, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, staying active, and avoiding smoking can all help protect long-term vision.

Local Care You Can Trust

Healthy habits play an important role in eye health. A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, colourful fruits and vegetables, oily

With practices in Matlock, Bakewell, and Dronfield, Derbyshire Opticians provides trusted, community-focused eye care. Appointments can be booked online or by calling your local practice, making expert eye care easy and accessible for everyone.

Sheffield Girls’ GDST

Celebrating excellence in the North: Sheffield Girls’ GDST named Top Independent Secondary School of the Year by the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide

The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, one of the UK’s most trusted and prestigious school rankings, delivered an

Westbourne School

Where You Belong!

Westbourne School is celebrating an exceptional Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report following our September 2025 inspection. Inspectors praised our outstanding leadership, inclusive ethos, and strong focus on pupil wellbeing, noting that “senior leaders are uncompromising in their efforts to provide the very best education for every pupil.”

At Westbourne, every child is known, valued, and nurtured. Our small class sizes allow us to truly understand each pupil, supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth. Inspectors highlighted our supportive environment and pupils’ exemplary conduct, recognising that wellbeing underpins future success.

Headteacher Mr Aidan Edmanson said: “This report captures who we are – a school

early Christmas gift to Sheffield Girls’ this year. The school is proud to have been named Independent Secondary School of the Year in the North 2026, a fantastic recognition of its continued commitment to excellence.

Parent Power offers a data-rich, comprehensive picture of school performance nationwide and for Sheffield Girls’, the prestigious accolade reflects an exceptional year of academic success, innovative teaching and outstanding personal development opportunities across every area of school life. The rankings follow another exceptional set of public examination results for the school. At A Level this year, over half of the Year 13

that pursues excellence through kindness, inclusivity and respect. When a child feels they truly belong, they thrive.”

The report also celebrated our broad, engaging curriculum, which inspires curiosity and creativity from the earliest years through to senior school. Looking ahead, we are excited to expand our provisions with a Sixth Form, opening in September 2027, so pupils can continue their Westbourne journey into the next stage of their education.

cohort achieved all A or A* grades with 72% of leavers moving on to Oxbridge or Russell Group universities. GCSE outcomes were equally impressive, with 80% grades awarded at 7-9 compared with a national average of 22%.

For the entire community at Sheffield Girls’, this accolade marks a real moment of pride: the second time in three years the school has received such recognition. Ultimately, the award celebrates the courage,

positivity and kindness demonstrated each day by its students, the passion and expertise of staff, and an unwavering commitment to delivering an ambitious education for girls of all ages. Interested in learning more? You are warmly invited to Sheffield Girls’ Spring Open Events, a perfect chance to experience everything the school has to offer. To find out more, visit the school’s website. sheffieldhighschool.org.uk

Chair of Governors Mr Dorrien Peters added: “We are proud of the professionalism and dedication of our staff and the warmth of our community. Westbourne is a place where every child is inspired to succeed.”

Following such an outstanding inspection, we are more excited than ever to welcome families to our Junior and Senior School Open Days. Come and see for yourself what makes Westbourne a school where everyone belongs.

Book a place: www.

Westbourne Senior School Open Evening Monday 12th March 2026, 5pm - 7pm Westbourne Junior School Open Morning Monday 20th April 2026, 9:30am - 11:30am

Birkdale School

A Joyful Start to School at Birkdale Prep

Birkdale Prep School is entering an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Jackie McDermott, who has just completed her first term as Head. As the first female Head of the school, Mrs McDermott has quickly established a culture that is unapologetic about high academic standards, while

remaining deeply committed to the joy of childhood.

Parents have responded enthusiastically, praising a nurturing yet ambitious environment where learning is fun, purposeful and engaging. This balance is achieved through a strengthened curriculum paired with creativity, play and laughter from secret readers invited into school, to staff dressing up for Africa Day and wholeschool challenges that bring learning to life.

Mrs McDermott’s journey with Birkdale began as a Sixth Former, before returning as Deputy Head of Pastoral at the Prep School and now leading the Prep. Her vision is clear: children should love learning, develop confidence early, and build the skills they need to thrive both academically and socially.

With a renewed focus on early reading, handwriting and independence, alongside strong links to the wider community, Birkdale Prep offers an

exceptional start to school life. Families with children due to start school in September are warmly invited to discover this vibrant approach at the upcoming Pre-Prep Open Day.

1 Composition to hum together is just contemplation (4,7)

1 Memo about caviare written with film gear (5,6)

5 Showed off in lightning style? (7)

12 Deliberated, but not riled, it could be argued (7)

13 Just very popular actors in ‘Callas’ style start (3-4,4)

Opt for some electrical stuff (5)

Matched in the qualifying sections (5)

Bloodline traced to Florida (or Tallahassee, even) (5)

You can throw mud at it, it’s a fact! (5)

4 Tool for a DIY mutant? That’s the lot! (5,6)

5 Gets a reaction at the core, when four are led out? (4,3)

6 Overwhelmed by ad. tuned to perfection (7)

Drink of honour to a strange beginning (5)

Rubs out all brochures in brown (5)

Religious leader to the grab bottle’s contents (5)

reed, back in time (5)

solutions for the January 2026 Pitcherwits are shown left. The answers to February 2026 Pitcherwits

p+p for Reflections readers quote: REFLRFPP

ACROSS

1 Meat loaf, not to be set on fire (6)

5 Owl flying about in a holy village (8)

9 Oddly grandiloquent but not legit. village North of Derby (8)

11 Modernise Pat in due order (6)

12 Awful din about a scratch on a memorial (5,5)

15 Careful, naturally, to encase bone (4)

16 Massage skinhead without his grievance (5)

17 Trail goes round the bend in religious practice (6)

19 Sneaky Dad at the bar in Bradwell shortly (6)

21 Weird antic of muscle protein (5)

23 Sensible to end up in this hamlet south of Winster (4)

25 Guaranteeing that a mark of genius is incorrect (6,4)

28 The mother of all our hills? (3,3)

29 Mascot who barred my way (5,3)

31 Hamlet, where gin takes its place in a crazy world (8)

32 Crafty blue-eyes to take us away from the moor (6)

Prize Crossword

2 Mysterious pulsar for digging out in Derbyshire! (9)

3 Curia turning out to be golden (5)

4 Aim of the terminus? (3)

5 A whole layer of comprehension (3)

6 Wash broken lead urn (7)

7 Dolt not up to recreating an A61 village! (3,6)

8 Parish, but not as it could be (5)

10 Cereal said to be the best French cuisine (3)

13 Spot the bishop’s place (3)

14 Meadowlarks, some not flying around, west of Grangemill (7)

16 Leeks don’t grow crooked at Curzon’s place (9)

18 Bat meagre problems away in A6 town (9)

20 Sailor, mostly admirable, to be lacking? (7)

22 Barrel said to weigh a lot (3)

24 Ex-PM, available in brail version (5)

26 Apprenticeship piece in crystal (3)

27 Fashion said to be one to climb over (5)

29 Bode well in one of our ponds? (3)

30 Tease about a spare one? (3)

Name: Address:

We will give a prize of £25 to a randomly-drawn correctly completed crossword. Cut out the completed puzzle and send by February 16th, 2026, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the January 2026 crossword can be found on page 82 of this issue.

Crossword by Prof Rebus

The story of Riber Castle

For well over a century, Riber Castle has fascinated visitors to Matlock, its distinctive outline silhouetted against the sky. KenParker, secretary of Matlock Civic Association, shares an insight into this well-known landmark ahead of a free presentation – The Story of Riber Castle - this month

RIBER CASTLE was built in the 1860s as a family home by John Smedley, a wealthy local businessman. He designed it himself, with battlements and towers as his version of a castle. Jane Middleton-Smith, archivist at John Smedley, has traced the story from its origins to the present day and has been advising the Wright family - the current owners – during Riber’s restoration as apartments.

John Smedley was born in 1803 and was apprenticed to his father, the owner of a hosiery business at Lea Mills. He took over the management of the enterprise with the aim of making the best yarn and the best underwear.

The mill became very successful, growing to 1000 employees. Smedley’s character was described at the time as

‘originality bordering on eccentricity’ - he had tremendous energy and determination.

He married late, in 1847, and his wife was 20 years younger. Their honeymoon was in France and Switzerland and, at some point, he became very ill.

He attributed his eventual recovery to new-found religious zeal combined with hydropathic treatment at a luxurious hydro hotel at Ben Rhydding in Yorkshire.

Hydrotherapy involves treatment of the body with water applied through a variety of ingenious devices (showers, baths, massages etc). He installed hydrotherapy at his mill and he experimented on his workers with various treatments. He then started his own Hydro enterprise on Matlock Bank in the 1850s - which also became spectacularly successful. It is now County Hall.

Deciding he needed a grand house midway between his two businesses, Smedley bought land at

Riber. In just six years Riber Castle was finished and occupied.

The accommodation was focused on a spectacular saloon the full height of the building with rooms off galleries on either side. It was gas lit with its own gas works and had its own deep well - and a cistern to collect rainwater too. But no WCs!

There was lavish decoration, Italian plaster statuary and a library of 1000 books – mostly on religion and hydrotherapy.

John Smedley died in 1874. His businesses were inherited by John Thomas Marsden (the son of a first cousin) but his widow Caroline lived on at the castle for a further 20 years.

Then the castle was sold to a schoolteacher from Giggleswick in Yorkshire, who established a new boys’ school. This use continued into the 1920s and, in 1930, Matlock UDC bought it for just £1,150.

But the building remained empty until 1939 when the Government requisitioned it as a wartime food store. In 1946 the castle was returned to the UDC which still couldn’t decide what to do with it. Theft and vandalism followed and

very quickly the castle was a roofless, windowless, gutted and dangerous ruin. Eddie Hallam, a zookeeper at Chester Zoo, was searching for a location for a new Fauna Reserve to specialise in endangered European wildlife (especially Lynx). He bought the ruin and established a series of enclosures in the castle grounds - opening in 1962. Eddie later sold the business to a new owner who broadened the scope to become Riber Zoo with wallabies and other animals. In 1999 Alan Wright bought the

The Story of Riber Castle, organised by Matlock Civic Association, will be on Thursday 12 February (7.30pm) at the Imperial Rooms. Jane Middleton-Smith, archivist at John Smedley, will use historic photographs to bring the castle’s intriguing story to life. Advance bookings for this free event are being taken.

To reserve seats, email pearsonr225@gmail.com with your contact details.

castle and, progressively, the ruin has been stabilised. A new roof and replacement windows were installed and the internal saloon with galleries has been re-created with access to new apartments. Sympathetic decorations have followed and a lift has been installed.

So, Riber is now a luxurious house

Above: Riber Castle from Bailey’s Tump in the recent snow

again with 26 stylish apartments. No longer a roofless ruin but an illuminated landmark on the hilltop once more.

Pictures courtesy of Ken Parker

Local Produce, Curated with Care at Hathersage

STANDING proudly at the heart of the Peak District village of Hathersage, The George is far more than a place to dine – it is a destination shaped by heritage, hospitality and heart. This iconic building blends centuries of character with contemporary comfort, offering guests an experience that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.

Once owned by the Eyre family of nearby Moorseats Hall in the 19th century – and later by James Morton – The George carries with it rich echoes of the past. It is even said that Charlotte Brontë herself frequented the pub, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape and

its people while crafting the world of Jane Eyre. Today, those stories remain quietly in the background, adding depth and soul to every visit.

Peak District Warmth and Welcome

Step inside The George and you are greeted by an immediate sense of warmth. Original oak beams, exposed stonework and carefully curated artwork honour the building’s rustic heritage, while elegant modern touches bring comfort, style and subtle luxury. It is the kind of space that invites guests to linger – whether escaping the winter chill with a glass of wine by the fire or settling in for an indulgent seasonal meal.

Seasonal Dishes, Perfectly Balanced

At the heart of The George’s food philosophy is a commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and carefully balanced flavours. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Adrian Gagea and Head Chef James Heywood, the menu reflects the changing seasons – embracing winter’s richness while layering brightness, sharpness and sweetness throughout each dish.

To begin with…

The Ham Hock Scotch Egg –a popular starter – was a perfect example of this approach. A masterclass in contrast and complement, the crisp, golden

shell gave way to a rich, sweet and juicy interior, where slow-cooked ham hock met the soft, yielding egg at its heart. Alongside it, the celeriac and mustard remoulade brought a bright, acidic lift – cutting through the richness with sharpness and subtle spice – while the roast apple and white wine sauce added gentle sweetness and aromatic warmth. Together, these elements created a beautiful yin and yang of flavour: crunchy and tender, savoury and sweet, bold and balanced, each component enhancing the other in perfect seasonal harmony.

The Slow-Cooked Pork Belly, another delicious starter, was exquisitely tender and delicately

melt-in-the-mouth, with the fat rendered to absolute perfection, creating a richness without heaviness. This was a beautifully nostalgic dish, layered with comforting, winter-warming flavours – the gentle smokiness of the pork balanced effortlessly by the natural sweetness and warmth of the white wine apple sauce and horseradish carrot purée. Finished with crisp chorizo crumbs for depth and contrast, it delivered indulgence with elegance, hearty yet surprisingly light on the palate.

The Main Event

For mains, seafood lovers are treated to the beautifully executed Pan–Fried Cod, served alongside roasted sweet potato and fennel bubble and squeak. This dish was the pinnacle in intelligent cooking, delivering a sublime harmony of contrasting flavours and textures. The panfried cod was impeccably fresh, delicately flaky and ocean–bright in character, providing a clean, elegant foundation. Sweet roasted sweet potato and gently aromatic fennel brought warmth and richness, beautifully counterbalanced by the vibrant, tart lift of the grapefruit beurre blanc – a

stroke of culinary ingenuity that cut through the butteriness with precision and poise. Finished with the crisp bite of grilled tenderstem broccoli, the dish offered freshness, crunch and balance in every mouthful.

For those seeking ultimate cold-weather indulgence, the Sage and Chorizo Stuffed Pork Fillet, wrapped in pancetta and served with buttery mash and sautéed greens, offered unmistakable comfort. The tender, subtly sweet pork brought natural richness, while the smoky warmth of chorizo and aromatic sage added depth and gentle spice. Crisp pancetta introduced a satisfying crunch, cutting through the velvety creaminess of the mash and the indulgent, flavour–packed sauce. Bright notes from the sautéed greens lifted the dish, adding freshness and balance, ensuring each mouthful feels indulgent yet never heavy.

Sweet Endings

Desserts at The George continued the theme of contrast and indulgence.

The timeless Sticky Toffee Pudding delivered everything winter demands – a true comfort classic – a hug in a bowl. This

dessert epitomised where contrasts come together in perfect harmony: the gentle lightness of the sponge meeting the deep, indulgent sweetness of warm toffee, while ribbons of rich caramel brought a buttery depth that lingered on the palate. Add to that the cool, creamy softness of double cream vanilla ice cream, melting slowly into the warmth beneath, and you had a dessert that was both nostalgic and indulgent – familiar, soothing, and irresistibly satisfying. Sweet yet balanced, comforting yet luxurious, every spoonful was a moment of pure winter warmth.

The flourless chocolate brownie was a celebration of bold contrast and delicate balance. Rich, velvety chocolate formed the indulgent foundation, softened by the cool, luxurious creaminess of wild berry ice cream and clotted cream. The strawberry, aloe vera and chilli coulis introduced a gentle heat and bright acidity, cutting through the sweetness with finesse, while shards of honeycomb added a golden crunch and caramel sweetness. Each element played its part – smooth against crisp, sweet against sharp, warm spice against cool cream – creating a dessert that felt indulgent yet beautifully balanced.

Flavour with Flair

At The George – another resounding success from Longbow Venues – Adrian and James have created menus that are dynamic, expertly balanced, seasonally inspired, and add just the right edge of adventure.

Whether you’re a local regular, a discerning diner, a visiting tourist, a Peak District walker, or simply stopping by for a perfectly poured pint, you’ll be welcomed here with genuine hospitality.

From the warmth of the greeting to the final farewell, hospitality here feels honest, homely, and heartfelt.

Blending heritage with innovation, comfort with creativity, and tradition with contemporary flair, The George at Hathersage continues to prove that great food, great atmosphere, and great service remain a timeless recipe.

As ever, the proof of the pudding truly is in the eating – and here, every bite tells a story worth savouring.

THE GEORGE Main Road, Hathersage, Derbyshire, S32 1BB

T: 01433 650436

E: enjoymore@ thegeorgehathersage.com www.thegeorgehathersage.com

February flavours

With Charlie Uwins, head chef at The Scotsman’s Pack, Hathersage

THIS delicious, slow-cooked ragu promises amazing flavour with all the comfort we crave from food during the winter months. Perfect for a dinner party or to return home to after a day exploring the outdoors.

The Scotsman’s Pack is a traditional, dog-friendly village pub, renowned for its cosy corners, award-winning food and extensive drinks offer.

The much-loved pub is located in the beautiful village of Hathersage within the Peak District National Park. Popular tourist destinations, including Chatsworth House and the historic market town of Bakewell, are just a short drive away. Amongst its breathtaking landscapes, it has access to some stunning walking and cycling trails right on its doorstep.

Ingredients

For the ragù

900–1,100 g whole venison haunch (one piece, well-trimmed)

30 g olive oil

30 g butter (optional)

150 g onion, finely diced

100 g carrot, finely diced

60 g celery, finely diced

12 g garlic, minced

40 g tomato paste

240 g dry red wine

800 g canned whole tomatoes, crushed

240 g beef or venison stock

1 bay leaf

Thyme 2 sprigs

1g dried oregano

1g crushed red pepper flakes

10 g fine salt (start with 7 g, adjust later)

3g freshly ground black pepper

10g dark chocolate

Pasta

450g bucatini

Salt for pasta water (about 10g per litre)

Extra parmigiano for serving

Venison Ragù with Rosemary Crumb, Pecorino & Bucatini Pasta

Instructions

1) Brown the haunch (important for flavour)

Pat venison dry. Season all over with about 7g salt and the pepper. Heat olive oil (and butter) in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown the haunch well on all sides (8–12 minutes total). Transfer venison to the slow cooker.

2) Build the sofrito

In the same pan, add onion, carrot, and celery.

Cook 8–10 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

Add garlic; cook 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste; cook 2–3 minutes until dark brick-red.

3) Deglaze

Add red wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 3–5 minutes until reduced by about half.

Pour everything into the slow cooker over the venison.

4) Slow cook

Add crushed tomatoes, stock, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and chilli flakes.

Cover and cook:

LOW: 8–10 hours

HIGH: 5–6 hours

Venison should be very tender and pull apart easily.

5) Shred and finish

Lift venison out onto a board.

Shred with two forks (discard any sinew). Return shredded meat to the sauce.

Taste and adjust salt (remaining 3 g), pepper and sugar if needed. Stir in cream/mascarpone (if using) and parmigiano.

Cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes uncovered to thicken slightly. Remove bay leaf and herb stems. Stir in parsley or basil.

6) Cook pasta & serve

Bring well-salted water to a boil. Cook bucatini until al dente.

Reserve 250 g pasta water, then drain. Toss pasta with ragù, loosening with pasta water as needed.

Serve hot with extra parmigiano and cracked black pepper.

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Icy cold … and picture perfect

THE icy start to the year may not have pleased everyone –but it was a great opportunity for Derbyshire photographers to capture some stunning images.

Over the last few weeks, we’ve been overwhelmed by some outstanding entries to our 2026 photographic competition, Derbyshire Through the Seasons. Here are just a few of our favourite shots.

Matthew Fellows from Chesterfield presents a cold and crisp afternoon at Leawood Pump House near High Peak Junction on the Cromford Canal.

Brenda Newsam, from Winster, shares a picture of snowy Darley Dale, the trees looking pretty against the grey winter sky.

Ashover Rock provided the perfect vantage point for Russ Teale, from Newbold, to photograph the snowdusted village of Ashover below.

Stuart Slinn, from Wingerworth, captured a cold but clear sunny morning after an overnight covering of light snow in the village.

Magpie Mine near Sheldon is atmospheric in all conditions, but this pithead – photographed by Andy Hanna from Great Longstonelooks particularly moody in the snow.

And you can almost feel the chilly air in Gail Lilley’s gorgeous winter sunset picture, taken near Birchover. Please keep sharing your images of Derbyshire through the seasons.

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 and drone images or software-altered pictures will not be accepted.

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.

Showcasing our 2025 winner

The winner of our 2025 photographic competition, chosen by Reflections readers, was DianaLee.

PART of Diana’s prize is to have six of her favourite shots from 2025 featured in Reflections – and she shares her selection here.

1 Sunset at Mercia Marina.

2 A sunny winter day at the Chatsworth Estate. The Emperor Fountain was built in 1844, for Tsar Nicholas, Emperor of Russia. It is very impressive – though the Tsar didn’t visit in the end!

3 Hardwick Hall – ‘more glass than wall’ was built for Bess of Hardwick, between 1590 and 1597. This photo was taken on New Year’s Eve 2025. The late December sunshine lit up the Hall with a golden glow!

4 A view over the River Derwent, taken from Strutts North Mill in Belper.  It was an early morning Winter sunrise and felt ethereal and atmospheric!

5 Matlock Bath, the ‘seaside resort with no sea.’

6 Early one morning in Duffield. I caught the mist just before it cleared.

WINDING WHEEL

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

WHEEL

ENTERTAINMENT

do for kids young and old, Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground makes for a fun day out for all the family. In the farmyard, you’ll meet our friendly animals, from chicks, piglets and horses to our mischievous lambs, goats and guinea pigs. We’re also delighted to be home to a number of rare breeds, including Suffolk Punch horses, Shire horses, Albion cattle, Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, Tamworth piglets, Golden Guernsey goats and marsh daisy chickens. Take a ride on our tractortrailer through Stand Wood (a small fee applies) everyone is welcome. For more informartion visit www.chatsworth.org

14-22 February Half Term at Hardwick. 9:30 am - 4:00 pm. Linking to Elizabethan festivities celebrating St Valentine, a date in the calendar we still celebrate today, we will have play activities in the Stableyard for February Half Term, inspired by themes of connection, pairs, gratitude and love such as ‘Match the pairs’, Connect Four, create your own sonnet in our blackboard den & rustle up a valentine’s feast in our mud kitchen. For non-members of the National Trust, or visitors without a general admission ticket to the House and Gardens, the Wider Estate admission fees apply. For more information Tel:: 01246 850430

4 Rotary Bakewell. Business and Fellowship Meeting. Rutland Arms Hotel, Bakewell. To attend please contact Tom Marshall jandtmarshall@ btinternet.com (M) 07415 766365.

4 Holymoorside Horticultural Society. Pottering with the Potty Plotters (popular broadcasters on BBC Radio Derby). Wed February 4th 7.45pm URC meeting room.Cotton Mill Hill, Holymoorside. All welcome. Tel.01246568000

7 Light Up The Barn at Dronfield Hall Barn. 6:15 pm - 9:00 pm Light Up The Barn – A Midwinter Festival of Light Join us for an enchanting evening at Dronfield Hall Barn as we transform the grounds into a glowing wonderland of light, fantasy, and magic. Refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the evening. For tickets please visit www.dronfieldhallbarn.org

14-22 Half-Term in Chatsworth Farmyard. 10:30 am - 4:30 pm. With so many things to

17-18 Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football. Unlike a conventional football match, Shrovetide Football is much longer than a regular football match and is played over two eight-hour periods. The goals are three miles apart and there are very few rules. The ball is rarely kicked but instead moves through a giant ‘hug’. There is no set pitch: the game is played throughout the entire town, so shops and businesses board up their windows in preparation! The game starts on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday at 2pm, when the ball is ‘turned up’ from a stone plinth on Shaw Croft car park in Ashbourne town centre.

21 The Night Shift at Peak Rail. Back by Popular demand! Experience an Unforgettable Night at Peak Rail. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the magic of the past whilst we celebrate railways in the dark, with a unique combination of nostalgia, live entertainment, and authentic railway experiences. For more information please visit www.peakrail.co.uk/

SUBMIT YOUR LISTING OR EVENT

Please email your information including dates to whatson@reflections-magazine. com before February 16th, 2025, to appear in the March 2026 issue.

The event will be on Monday 16th March (7.30pm) at St Thomas Centre, Chatsworth Road.

SMH Mitchells facilitates Management Buy-Out of Peak Electrical Supplies

NICOLA and Jason Andrews have acquired ownership of independent electrical wholesaler Peak Electrical Supplies following a management buy-out.

The deal was led by Andrew McDaid, Partner at SMH Mitchells. He said: “It has been a pleasure to work with Nicola and Jason to help them realise their ambition of owning Peak Electrical Supplies. Many small firms struggle to navigate the complexities of an MBO, but at SMH Mitchells we thrive on finding creative financing solutions.

“We are thrilled that Peak Electrical Supplies has become an ongoing client of the firm. Our role now shifts from architects of the deal to partners in their growth. We look forward to working closely with Nicola and Jason to help them scale the business, optimise their tax position and achieve the ambitious long-term goals they have set for the company.”

Folklore of Derbyshire event

SIMON UNSWORTH will lead a fascinating journey into the rich folklore of Derbyshire and the Peak District in a meeting of Chesterfield and District Local History Society.

The Folklore of Derbyshire presentation will include stories, traditions, legends and mysterious places.

New Marketing Manager joins Buxton Crescent Experience & Pump Room

ALISON GRAY has joined the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust management team as Communications and Marketing Manager.

Alison has extensive experience in the tourism sector - both in the UK and overseas - and has worked across a wide range of industries, including retail, training and personal development, wellbeing, public transport, and business support services.

Her background includes senior roles within major corporate environments such as The Co-operative Group and East Midlands Chamber, as well as more recent work supporting the small business sector.

Alison says: “Through involvement in one of the

Trust’s community initiatives, I have gained a deeper understanding of its work and its value to the local community, schools, visitors and tourists alike.”

Simon Wallwork, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “This is an exciting time and Alison’s appointment strengthens our ability to reach new audiences and build on recent successes. Her experience and energy will play a key role in shaping the next chapter.”

Below: Alison Gray