Reflections Magazine July 2026

July 2026

Hello summer …

AS I’m writing this column, the temperature is edging towards 30C and it’s feeling, frankly, a bit much!

However, I’m hoping July will be kind, allowing us to make the most of all that Derbyshire has to offer.

One of the most hotly anticipated events of the summer is the opening of The Charleston in Bakewell – capturing the glamour of the 1920s Jazz Age, with a modern twist. It was a pleasure to chat with Longbow Venues managing director Rob Hattersley about The Charleston and why it is so deeply personal to him.

Meanwhile, don’t be surprised if, during a Peak District hike, you’re suddenly surrounded by the sound of … Spanish! Nora Sike reveals how she’s combining her love of Spanish and the countryside to help others master the language through country retreats.

Pilgrimages are becoming increasingly popular, serving both spiritual and secular intentions, and this month we take a closer look at the opportunities for reflection and contemplation along the Peak Wesley Way.

Whatever your interests, there’s lots to do across Derbyshire this month – from themed markets in Chesterfield to gorgeous open gardens; art events to fantastic hospitality.

And we hope this edition of Reflections brings you plenty of inspiration!

Until next month,

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE JULY 2026

Editor: Fiona Stubbs

E: editor@bannisterpublications.co.uk

Advertising: Helen Wragg, M: 07973 672582 E: helen@bannisterpublications.co.uk

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

Art Editor: Ben Fletcher-Bates, E: design@reflections-magazine.com

Social Media: Rebecca Bloomfield, E: hello@bannisterpublications.com

Accounts: Amy Eaton, E: admin@bannisterpublications.co.uk

Distribution: E: distribution@bannisterpublications.co.uk

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 tax bands D to H and the following postcode areas: DE4 - 2, 3, 4, 5 / DE45 1 / S18 5 / S30 1 / S40 - 1, 2, 3, 4 / S41 0, S41 7, 8, 9 / S42 - 5, 6, 7 / S43 - 1, 2, 3 / S45 0, S45 9.

News 12, 20, 26, 44

22 This time, it’s personal

52 22 58 40

As The Charleston opens in Bakewell, Longbow Venues managing director Rob Hattersley tells Fiona Stubbs why it means so much to him

28 Spanish in the Peaks Fiona Stubbs discovers how the Peak District hills are alive … with the sound of Spanish

32 Antiques

Our antiques expert, Vivienne Milburn, looks at the levelling up of prices paid for works by female artists

40 “I just thought I was weird …”

After being diagnosed as autistic ADHD at the age of 48, Libby Langley shares a deeply personal insight into neurodivergence

46 July Gardens

A glimpse into some of July’s garden events

50 Chef’s Signature Dish

A deliciously summery fish dish from Faye Norris and Liam Penney of the White Horse Inn, Woolley Moor

52 Double celebrations in Belper

As Belper celebrates two key milestones, Adrian Farmer shares an insight into the town’s remarkable history and its pioneering industrialist Jedidiah Strutt

56 Peak Pilgrimages Pilgrimages are becoming increasingly popular in the UK – and the Peak District is no exception. Hanna Varga introduces the Peak Wesley Way

58 Photographic competition

Glasses raised to anniversary and access

TWO new beers have been launched to celebrate 75 years of the Peak District National Park - and plans for access improvements.

Sheffield’s Abbeydale and Loxley breweries collaborated to produce two beers – both named Anniversary Pale Ale – to mark the milestone anniversary. A 10p donation from the sale of each of the beers will be made to the Peak District Foundation’s Path and Trails appeal for projects to improve access across the National Park.

A launch event was held at the Norfolk Arms, Ringinglow - which also highlighted plans for access improvements to the Houndkirk byway. The historic, multi-use track links Longshaw and Ringinglow, crossing the Burbage moors on the eastern edge of the Peak District.

Guests enjoyed a walk along part of the route – known as the Sheffield Link – which is popular with walkers, cyclists, horse riders and off-road bikers.

Sue Smith, Access and Rights of Way Officer at the Peak District National Park Authority, said: “National parks and access have always gone hand in hand so it’s fitting to celebrate our 75th by thinking about key connections and how we can continue to improve access for everyone to enjoy these special places.

“We’re delighted that Sheffield’s link to the National Park has inspired the two anniversary ales and for the support for accessing the beauty, nature and heritage found on its doorstep. We hope that this route and others like it for walking, wheeling, cycling and horse-riding will be the start of many great journeys.”

National tourism sector role for Derbyshire accessibility specialist

ACCESSIBILITY specialist Jane Cooper has been appointed by the UK Government as the new Disability and Access Ambassador for the tourism sector, a national role designed to drive improvements in accessibility across the country’s visitor economy.

Jane, founder and managing director of Access & Inclusion UK, was appointed following a national selection process. The voluntary role recognises her extensive expertise in accessible tourism, her lived experience as the parent of a disabled daughter and her long-standing work with national tourism organisations, destinations, heritage organisations and hospitality businesses across the UK.

The Disability and Access Ambassador programme brings together influential leaders from key industries to champion better access to goods, services and employment for disabled people. As Ambassador for Tourism, Jane will work with government departments,

national tourism bodies, businesses and disabled people’s organisations to accelerate change across the sector.

She said: “I am honoured to take on this role. Tourism should be for everyone, yet too many disabled people still face barriers when planning a day out, booking a holiday or visiting the places they love. I’m committed to working with partners across the UK to showcase best practice, support businesses to improve and champion the economic and social value of inclusive tourism.”

Based in Derbyshire, Jane has led major accessibility projects for VisitEngland, VisitScotland, Fáilte Ireland, English Heritage, the National Trust, Local Visitor Economy Partnerships and tourism businesses across the UK.

North-East Derbyshire vet wins national award for outstanding service

DRONFIELD small animal vet and social media influencer, Cat Henstridge - known as “Cat the Vet” by her thousands of followers - has received the 2026 Outstanding Service Award from the British Veterinary Association.

The award recognised Cat’s ‘outstanding contribution to advancing public understanding of veterinary science and animal welfare’.

Through her social media platform “Cat The Vet,” she communicates evidencebased veterinary science, translating complex topics into accessible information - helping pet owners to make informed decisions about their animals’ health and welfare. The award also recognised Cat’s service to the profession through actively tackling misinformation online.

Cat said: “I love being a vet and I am so proud to be a member of this phenomenal profession. Veterinary people are kind, passionate, skilled, knowledgeable and absolutely dedicated to the health and welfare of the animals in their care. My aim has always been to champion that and help the public gain a greater understanding of who we are and why we do what we do. To now be considered a leader by my peers and someone worthy of this award is a huge honour and I could not be more grateful.”

GRAYSONS SPONSORS ‘CARER OF THE YEAR’ AWARD

A woman whose dedication and compassion have made a significant difference to those around her has been named ‘Carer of the Year’ at the recent Chesterfield FC Community Awards.

SARAH WAIN, a mum who works full time whilst looking after twins who have complex medical conditions, received the award, sponsored by Graysons Solicitors, during a special ceremony held at the SMH Group Stadium.

The annual awards celebrate individuals from across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire who have gone above and beyond to support others and strengthen their local communities.

Representatives from Glass Yard-based Graysons Solicitors were present to congratulate Sarah on her achievement and celebrate the many individuals recognised for their outstanding contributions to society.

Jessica Gamble, a solicitor in Graysons’ property department and who attended the event said:

“It was an incredible night and so lovely to see the local community come together and support and celebrate people who go above and beyond, despite adversities.

Above: Graysons Community awards Carer of the Year 2026

Right: Georgia Bird Foundation Choir

“The event opened with a performance from the Georgia Bird Foundation Choir, which was set up for the community after the death of young singer, Georgia Bird, following her struggles with mental health. The choir is aimed at helping 11 – 19-year-olds improve their mental health and well-being.

“We were also lucky enough to see a performance from the multi award winning Westend production ‘Walk Like a Man’, which celebrates the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.”

Peter Clark, managing partner at Graysons said:

“We were delighted to sponsor

the Carer of the Year award and would like to offer our sincere congratulations to Sarah on her well-deserved success.

“Caring for others requires patience, compassion and an enormous amount of dedication. Many carers provide invaluable support behind the scenes without seeking recognition, so it is important that their contribution is acknowledged and celebrated.”

The Chesterfield FC Community Awards were launched to recognise local people who have gone above and beyond in supporting others, overcoming adversity, or helping make their communities better places to live.

Graysons has sponsored an award at the event for several years and is a long-standing sponsor of Chesterfield Football Club.

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

A New Chapter for Dominic Fallon

Trusted advice. Enhanced technology. The same personal service.

FOR many clients, financial planning is built on trust, relationships and continuity. That is why the latest development for Chesterfield-based financial adviser Dominic Fallon and his team is not about changing what clients value most - it is about enhancing it.

Following a transition from Sovereign Wealth and the St. James’s Place Partnership to True Potential Wealth Management, Dominic and his experienced team are entering an exciting new chapter while continuing to provide the same personal service that clients have come to know and trust over the years.

Importantly, the people remain the same.

Dominic continues to lead the business, supported by Abbey Boatman, Eve Sharman, Alex Brown, and new administrator Bobby Cutts. Clients will still be welcomed by familiar voices, receive tailored advice and benefit from the same commitment to understanding their individual circumstances and aspirations.

What has changed is the technology, flexibility and range of tools now available to support clients on their financial journey.

For Dominic, the decision was driven by a desire to continue delivering a modern, highly personal service while ensuring clients have access to the latest technology and resources available.

Combining Personal Advice with Modern Technology

The move to True Potential Wealth Management introduces additional technology and resources designed to complement the personal advice clients already value.

the reassurance of knowing that professional advice is only a phone call away.”

Clients can now access their financial information securely through an advanced app and online portal, giving them a real-time view of their investments, pensions and financial arrangements whenever they choose.

Whether at home, at work or on holiday, clients can check valuations, review transaction histories and monitor progress towards their financial goals with just a few taps on their phone or tablet.

For those wishing to make additional investments or top up existing portfolios, this can often be done quickly and efficiently through the platform.

Yet while technology plays an increasingly important role, Dominic is keen to stress that personal advice remains at the heart of everything the business does.

“We believe the best outcomes come from combining innovative technology with genuine human relationships,” says Dominic. “Clients have greater access to information than ever before, but they still have

The Best of Both Worlds

The financial services sector has seen growth of numerous in the number of do-it-yourself investment platforms in recent years. While these can offer convenience, they often leave individuals to make important financial decisions alone.

Dominic believes True Potential Wealth Management offers something different.

Clients benefit from the convenience and accessibility of a modern digital platform while retaining direct access to qualified financial professionals who understand their personal circumstances.

Advice remains fully personalised. No two clients are the same, and no two financial plans are identical.

Every recommendation is tailored to individual goals, priorities and timescales.

Whether someone is planning for retirement, investing for the future, protecting their family or managing accumulated

wealth, advice is shaped around their specific needs.

Ongoing reviews continue to form an important part of the service, ensuring financial plans remain aligned with changing circumstances and future ambitions.

Faster, Smarter Communication

Another benefit of the move is the speed and efficiency of communication.

True Potential develops and maintains much of its own technology, with dedicated teams continually refining and improving systems to enhance the client experience.

Their approach allows information to be shared securely between the adviser, support teams and clients, helping to deliver a responsive and efficient experience.

The result is a service that feels both personal and responsive.

Continuity at the Core

While additional technology provides clients with more ways to engage with their

finances, perhaps the most important message is that the values underpinning the business remain unchanged.

Dominic and his team continue to place people at the centre of every conversation.

The focus remains firmly on building long-term relationships, understanding individual objectives and providing advice that is clear, practical and relevant.

Many clients have worked with Dominic for years, and those relationships continue to be the foundation of the business.

The move to True Potential Wealth Management simply provides additional tools and resources to support those relationships moving forward.

LOOKING AHEAD

As Dominic Fallon and his team begin this new chapter,

there is a genuine sense of optimism about the future.

Clients will continue to receive the same friendly, professional and highly personalised service they have always valued, while benefiting from enhanced technology and improved access to information.

It is a blend of continuity and progress.

The trusted local team remains exactly where clients expect them to be. The advice remains personal. The relationships remain strong.

What has evolved is the technology that supports those relationshipscreating a modern, efficient and accessible service designed around the needs of today’s clients.

It is the next chapter in delivering the high standards of service their clients have always expected

- supported by technology and resources designed to make managing finances easier and more accessible.

Potential Wealth Management

1-3 Old Road, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 2RE T: 01246 959977 M: 07779 268756

E: dominicfallon@tpllp.com

Wildfire alert – helping to protect the Peak District’s moorland

AN 18km Wildfire Walk has raised over £11,000 towards a campaign to protect popular Peak District hiking and climbing areas from devastating fires.

A group of 30 people, dressed brightly in ‘fire’ colours, walked from Hathersage along the Peak District edges, raising awareness on the way round. It was part of a campaign by the The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) to raise £100,000 – and increase wildfire awareness - to help protect and restore popular Peak District areas through its charity, the BMC Access & Conservation Trust.

Communications and fundraising officer, Claire Maxted, said: “Late last year we secured a £50,000 grant to employ a dedicated Wildfire Engagement Officer for the high-risk Sheffield Moors area – including Stanage, Burbage, Curbar and Froggatt. He now patrols and educates the public around the dangers of wildfire, aided by his team of volunteers and in collaboration with the hugely skilled staff from the Peak District National Park, National Trust and Eastern Moors Partnership.

“Already halfway to our total, in May we won a £20,000 National Lottery grant to help restore 81.2 hectares (114 football pitches) of peat bog burned within this area since 2018. Our latest fundraising efforts include the sponsored Wildfire Walk of fundraisers and BMC staff, plus staff from the Peak District National Park, National Trust, Eastern Moors Partnership and Moors for the Future Partnership.”

She added: “We now have a final £19,000 to raise to hit our target. These funds will help protect the Stanage, Burbage, Curbar and Froggatt moors from wildfires and rehabilitate - in collaboration with the Moors for the Future Partnership - moorland lost to wildfire.”

Steampunk leads latest summer events in Chesterfield markets

CHESTERFIELD continues its packed programme of summer events as steam powered technology meets Victorian aesthetics in the town’s first Steampunk Market weekend on 4th and 5th July.

New Square will be the base for the event, organised in partnership with Newark Steampunk Society.

Running from 10am to 4pm, it will feature an array of stalls offering handcrafted creations, clothing, accessories, artwork, curiosities and retro futuristic inventions. There will also be a carousel, live music, themed bars, food and a town centre parade on Sunday from 3pm.

Parvin Mannering from Newark Steampunk Society said: “Whilst Steampunks have been sewing and making their extravagant and quirky outfits to wow the crowds, the market office has organised the fabulous New Square to give the townsfolk and visitors an immersive experience into the world of Steam and gadgetry embracing the Victorian love of invention. Whether you come to ride the carousel or chat with us to see how welcoming Steampunks are, you will have a brilliant and inspiring weekend.”

Further events include the Great Chesterfield Feast on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2 August – promising global flavours, sweet treats, craft drinks and unique handmade goods.

There will also be recurring events with the Royal Legion Bikers visiting to show their bikes on 25th July and 29th August. Local musicians will be performing live in the Market on 25th July and 8th August.

Learn more about festivals and events happening in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/events

Could you volunteer for Chesterfield Canal Trust?

CHESTERFIELD Canal Trust is looking for volunteers to work at its Tapton Lock visitor centre and café through the busy holiday season and beyond.

Potential volunteers are invited join the team for a brief visit to see what is involved. Opening hours are 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm at weekends. For more information, please call Jill on 07885363004 or apply by email to taptonlock@chesterfield-canal-trust.org

time, This it’s personal

As managing director of Longbow Venues, Rob Hattersley’s vision for hospitality done differently has breathed new life into several iconic Peak District premises. But, as he tells Fiona Stubbs, the newly opened Charleston in Bakewell is the most meaningful yet

THE tinkling notes of a baby grand piano; the clink of glasses; the hubbub of chatter over good food. Stories told. Secrets shared. This is The Charleston, capturing the glamour and vitality of the 1920s Jazz Age with a modern twist.

For the man behind one of the region’s most eagerly anticipated venues, the £2.6 million development of The Charleston has been a long labour of love, rooted in his own experience of growing up in Bakewell where his parents, John and Diane Hattersley, ran the legendary Aitch’s Wine Bar and Bistro.

“This is very, very personal to me,” says Rob. “It feels like I’m coming home. It means everything. It really does mean everything.”

The Charleston has brought back to life the former Royal Bank of Scotland building in Rutland Square. Originally opened in 1838, the Grade II listed sandstone structure had been empty since 2018.

“I can stand on the rear fire escape of The Charleston and look across Bath Gardens to what used to be our living room above Aitch’s,” muses Rob. “We lived there until I was two and, when mum and dad could afford to buy a house, it became the office for the business. As a teenager, I remember doing the banking for Aitch’s in the Royal Bank of Scotland.” Hospitality is in Rob’s blood. His grandparents, George and Joan Hattersley, ran well-known pubs The Lathkil Hotel at Over Haddon and The Monsal Head Hotel, where his father, John, grew up.

John and Diane ran Aitch’s on Buxton Road, Bakewell from 1982 to 2004, establishing the venue as the place to be in the Peaks.

Rob recalls: “Bakewell shaped who

Top left: Welcome to The Charleston - Rob (right) with Longbow Venues director Stephen Atkinson (left) and The Charleston general manager Josh Butler

Above: The Charleston embraces the grandeur of the former bank building

Below: The Speakeasy private dining room nestles in the original bank vault

I am. Watching my parents run Aitch’s for 22 years taught me the value of good food, warm hospitality and community connection. It wasn’t just a business; it was a hub of life, laughter and conversation.”

He worked with his parents from the age of 14 before heading to Manchester Metropolitan University where he gained a degree in hospitality and management.

“I left the area aged 18 - ran away for a few years, as you do,” smiles Rob. “I worked all over the UK and did stints abroad. But the idea was always to come back.”

After working for companies “where it was all about the bottom line and everything else came second”, Rob launched independent hospitality business Longbow Venues with an ethos of placing ‘people over profit’.

He sold his house to finance Longbow’s first acquisition, The Maynard at Grindleford and, over the course of six years, its portfolio has grown to include The George in Hathersage, The Ashford Arms in Ashford in the Water, The Peacock at Owler Bar and The Peacock at Rowsley.

Despite external challenges – not least the 2020 Covid lockdown just weeks after The Maynard opened and flood damage to The George as a result of Storm Babet in October 2023 – the business has built a strong reputation for quality food, drink and service.

The Charleston is Longbow’s most

ambitious project to date. “Throughout the last six years, people kept asking ‘when are you doing something in Bakewell?’” explains Rob. “Aitch’s closed 22 years ago and I think there’s been a gap in the market. There are some good operators in Bakewell but I think there’s a space for everyday premium; somewhere that’s not a pub, where people will feel at home and where they can enjoy some great wine or nice cocktails, with genuine warmth of service and food that’s a different offering.”

Rob had long been intrigued by the imposing former bank building. “I first began chatting to the landlord a few years ago,” he recalls. “For a while, I thought it was going to be too big. But, the more experienced you become, the more you realise that you can use the size and scale of the business to its full potential.

“When I first walked into the building, I could visualise how I wanted it to be. Its features created a vision. The overwhelming feeling I got was the grandeur –the expansive windows, the soaring ceilings, the architraves, the coving.

live music every evening. A private dining area - The Speakeasy – nestles in the original bank vault and serves up to 10 guests.

General manager Josh Butler looks after the day-to-day running, with Jemima Prater as assistant manager, supported by Alice Houghton.

With a carefully curated food and drinks offer – championing local suppliers – The Charleston caters to all tastes, from coffee and cakes to brunch; small plate bar dining to afternoon tea and from cocktails to dinner.

“The Charleston is different for Bakewell, different for the area and different to anything we’ve done as well.”

“For me, we had to play on that grandeur. The 1920s – the roaring ’20s – were all about fun and vibrancy. Coming out of the First World War, there was a boom in cocktails and a huge European food influence which hit America. Even during Prohibition, people still went out and had fun.”

The Charleston – which brings 60 new jobs to Bakewell – is set over two floors, with seating for up to 160 guests inside and a terrace area for outdoor dining. There is

“It feels very special, but we also want it to feel relaxed,” says Rob. “I’ve a huge love of Bakewell and just want the best for the area. I think this is something that’s going to be good for both local people and tourists while bringing this amazing building back to life.

“Before we officially opened, teams from our other venues came to The Charleston for an exclusive staff dining event and it was an incredibly special moment. It really did show how none of this is possible without the amazing people within Longbow.”

The development of The Charleston is a collaboration between Longbow and partners including Coverland UK and Concorde BGW group. Rob’s vision is shared and supported by Longbow Venues directors Stephen

Above: The Florentine Gatsby is a stylish brunch dish, featuring a golden waffle topped with spiced avocado and spinach mousse, crispy egg and micro herbs

Atkinson, Adrian Gagea and Victoria Cone.

In the pipeline for three years, the development process included complex negotiations with the building’s landlords, designers and Peak District National Park planners.

Rob explains: “Heritage is one of Longbow’s core values – I think it’s important that we keep and look after historic places in the Peak District and that we continue enhancing the area.

“All of our buildings are old – four are listed. I think it’s sad when heritage buildings don’t have a life, a purpose.”

He’s mindful that The Charleston should complement existing hospitality in the town.

“We didn’t want to tread on the toes of the fine dining offering,” he says. “The Charleston’s menu is very much brunch to brasserie, but with the option of bar snacks, small plates and a nice glass of beer, wine or a cocktail.

“I look back to Bakewell over 20 years ago and remember how vibrant it was. At Aitch’s, you had to book a table weeks in advance for a Friday or Saturday night. Although times have changed, I do feel that Bakewell has fallen behind a little. Hathersage and Matlock are great examples of how places have been developed and boosted into vibrant hotspots again.

“Bakewell has a hybrid population. It has a lot of locals who don’t come into the town during the day but want to do so at night and there are also a lot of tourists.

“Retail in Bakewell is definitely getting there with names like Fat Face, Joules, Fairfax & Favor and Seasalt improving the town as a destination but the same needs to go for hospitality. Having more options will improve the local economy.”

https://the-charleston.com

Far left: The spirit of the 1920s is echoed in details such as this evocative bar lighting Left: The terrace area for outdoor dining

Peak District Artisans Celebrate 35 years of creative excellence

THE Peak District Artisans (PDA) will this month celebrate 35 years of art inspired by living and working in the national park.

Their annual showcase will be held on 18th and 19th July at Buxton Pavillion’s Octagon Hall.

Formerly held at Buxton’s Dome, the event is an opportunity to meet the artists and purchase unique designs, including original paintings, jewellery, photography, handthrown pottery and textile art.

A PDA spokesperson said: “We will be featuring an exciting collection of contemporary artworks from some of the best professional artists, designer makers and artisans in the region. Artists who have often been inspired by the landscape that surrounds them, or who have made it their home and discovered a place where they can let loose their creativity.

Summer concert by Barlow Singers

BARLOW Singers are to host a Summer Concert at Loundsley Green Community Centre, Cuttholme Road on Sunday 19th July (2pm).

Admission - through advance tickets or pay on the door - is £7 and includes refreshments. All proceeds will go to Breast Cancer Now.

For tickets, contact Carole Anderson on 07717 471603 / carole.a.anderson@gmail. com or Pauline Holmes on 01246-568127 / 07905 641432 / mrspaulineholmes@gmail.com

Creative expressions by women living with breast cancer

ART created by a group of women living with incurable breast cancer will be showcased at Sheffield’s Millennium Gallery on

19th July (11am to 3pm).

The Long Middle pop-up art and craft exhibition features work by members of the Macmillan Secondary Breast Cancer Support Group, based at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. Using different creative mediums, the group aims to raise public awareness and to fundraise for the Chesterfield Royal Hospital Trust Charity, which aids support groups across the hospital’s services.

Group member Sam Pryke said: “The art exhibition group is a really powerful way to share our cancer stories. None of us are professional artists but we are a creative bunch and believe passionately in the benefits of art therapy whilst living with this ghastly disease. Doing this exhibition is bringing us even closer together. The excitement and energy are palpable.”

The exhibition is at the Millennium Gallery, 48 Arundel Gate, Sheffield.

“These are artists who make a living out of making and selling their work both at home and overseas, some of whom are award-winning and this is a chance to not only discover them but also support them.”

Learn more at: https://www. peakdistrictartisans.co.uk/

Peak Edge Hotel and Cocina take top honours at Midlands hospitality awards

TWO Derbyshire hospitality businesses have been recognised among the very best in the Midlands after taking home top titles at the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards 2026.

Peak Edge Hotel was named Boutique Hotel of the Year, while Cocina Restaurant at Casa Hotel was crowned Steakhouse of the Year.

The awards celebrate excellence across the hospitality sector and attracted entries from hotels, restaurants, pubs and hospitality venues throughout the East and West Midlands.

SPANISH RETREATS to the Peak District

After years of travelling, Nora Sike discovered a love of both the English countryside and the Spanish language. Now, as Fiona Stubbs discovers, she is combining the two, building confidence and fluency through country retreats.

THEY may stand firmly in the heart of England, but the Peak District hills are regularly alive with the sound of … Spanish! Immersive language retreats in the National Park are proving an effective way for people to improve fluency and confidence in Spanish, away from the busyness and distractions of everyday life.

Nora Sike runs Picos Spanish Retreats – with a clever play

on words. “We’re in the Peak District – where you can also reach the peak of your learning,” she smiles. “Retreats involve three nights away where the only spoken language is Spanish.

“They are helpful for beginners as well as improvers who have been learning without real progress but want to find their voice in Spanish and be able to take part in any conversations.”

Nora wanted to combine

the outdoors with the learning experience and found a base in Hurdlow, between Bakewell and Buxton, for weekend retreats.

“Not everybody wants to – or can afford to - travel to Spain for an immersive language experience,” she explains. “The Peak District is accessible, with good transport links, and is an escape in itself. I encourage guests to take walks and enjoy the countryside.”

Chatting to Nora, it comes as a surprise to learn that she is not actually Spanish, but from Budapest in Hungary.

Spanish is her fourth language – but especially close to her heart. “The first language I started to learn, at the age of 14, was Italian,” she recalls. “I studied Italian at university and went on to complete a Masters degree. I didn’t want to be a teacher or an interpreter, so I worked in hotels in Italy for 13 years as a fitness instructor.

“Then, in 2014, I was in a terrible car crash involving a drunk driver and almost died from head injuries”

Nora had planned to set up home in Milan but recovery from injury took her on a different journey. “I travelled solo for

four years,” she says. “After visiting England and Ireland, I arrived in Barcelona – where I immediately felt at home. It was my first experience of Spanish.

“I absolutely adore Barcelona. I spent four months there, volunteering in a hostel and cooking for the guests.”

From there she travelled

to South East Asia where –in Thailand - she met her English boyfriend. Nora continued to travel alone while maintaining her long-distance relationship, then the couple toured Europe in a van.

“After four-and-a-half years, I’d had enough of travelling. I wanted a base, I wanted friends.

We settled in Sheffield where my boyfriend had been a student and everyone was so welcoming. People are so lovely here.”

Nora found new friends through social media platform Meetup before discovering and ‘sort of taking over’ an existing Spanish group in the city.

“We started with coffee mornings because I love coffee!” laughs Nora. “We started to get more people coming along and it grew from there. There are almost 800 people in the group now –from different backgrounds.

“Some are from Spanish speaking countries and want to reconnect with the language and the culture, but the majority are British people who are really keen to practice their Spanish.”

Regular social meet ups are held in Sheffield with activities – including a book club, coffee mornings and taco workshops – all in Spanish.

“I try to make sure we’re learning Spanish in real life scenarios,” says Nora. “I create a platform that’s as natural as it can be for people to hopefully realise it’s not as difficult as they think.”

Nora recommends that people have at least a basic knowledge of Spanish before joining the group or retreats.

“The standard we speak is quite high – I’d say solid intermediate level – but we have beginners groups who already know a little of the language, too,” she adds. “We play some games in Spanish, which helps to build vocabulary and also helps people to get to know each other.”

The Peak District brings other benefits, says Nora, who would eventually like to develop longer, five-day retreats.

“I want people to be able to leave the mundane behind and just immerse themselves in Spanish – as if we were in Spain, but feeling extra safe because we are in England and they can still go out to the village pub.”

Learn more at: https://www. spanishimmersionuk.com/

MOST COMMON WINDOW FAULTS

WINDOWS play a vital role in keeping your home warm (and cool), secure, and energy efficient. However, over time, even high-quality double and triple glazed windows can develop faults that affect their performance. Understanding the most common window problems and knowing when to seek professional window repairs can help you avoid costly replacements and maintain the comfort of your home.

What Are the Most Common Window Repairs?

One of the most common window problems homeowners experience is misted or fogged double glazing. This occurs when the sealed unit between the panes of glass fails, allowing moisture to enter the gap. As condensation develops inside the unit, the glass becomes cloudy, visibility is reduced, and the window loses some of its insulating properties. Many homeowners assume the entire window needs replacing, but in most cases only the failed glass unit needs to be changed, making it a cost-effective repair that restores both appearance and energy efficiency.

Another issue many homeowners face is condensation forming on the inside of windows, particularly during colder

months. Unlike misted double glazing, this type of condensation is usually caused by excess moisture within the home from activities such as cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors. Poor ventilation can make the problem worse, leading to mould growth, and damp patches.

Why Won’t My Window Open or Close Properly?

One of the most frequently searched questions by homeowners is: “Should I repair or replace my windows?” The answer depends on the age of the windows, the extent of the damage, and the overall condition of the frames. Many people assume that any fault with their windows means a full replacement is necessary. However, this is often not the case. Common issues such as failed double-glazing units, broken hinges, damaged handles, faulty locking mechanisms, worn seals, draughts, and cracked glass can usually be repaired without replacing the entire window.

Benefits of Window Repairs

Repairing existing windows is often the most cost-effective solution when the frames remain structurally sound.

Advantages of window repairs include:

• Lower cost compared to full window replacement

• Faster installation and less disruption to your home

• mproved energy efficiency by replacing failed glass units or seals

• Restored security through lock, handle, and hinge repairs

• Extended lifespan of existing windows

• Reduced environmental impact by avoiding unnecessary waste

• Preservation of the original appearance of your property

• For example, if a double-glazed unit has become misted due to a failed seal, the glass unit can often be replaced while keeping the original frame intact. This restores both clarity and thermal performance at a fraction of the cost of a completely new window.

When Is Window Replacement Necessary?

Although repairs can solve many common faults, there are situations where replacement may be the better long-term investment.

Replacement may be recommended when:

• Window frames are structurally damaged

• Multiple components have failed simultaneously

• The windows are very old and no longer meet modern energy-efficiency standards

• Significant draughts remain despite previous repairs

• You want to upgrade the appearance, security, or thermal performance of your home

• Older timber windows suffering from rot, or uPVC frames that have become severely damaged, may no longer provide a reliable foundation for repairs. In these cases, replacement can offer better long-term value.

Repair vs Replace: Which Offers Better Value?

For most homeowners, professional repairs provide the best return on investment when the window frames are still in good condition. Replacing a misted glass unit, fitting new hinges, repairing locks, or replacing seals can restore performance, improve comfort, and reduce energy bills without the expense of installing brand-new windows. Full replacement should generally be viewed as a solution for windows that are beyond economical repair or when homeowners wish to significantly improve the appearance and efficiency of their property.

By arranging an assessment or contacting HeatGuard, homeowners can determine whether a targeted repair will resolve the issue or whether replacement is the more practical long-term option. In many cases, a simple repair can add years to the life of a window while saving hundreds or even thousands of pounds compared to a complete replacement.

PORTRAIT WITH GIRL POWER APPEAL

By Vivienne Milburn

DISCOVERED in a house near Bakewell and originally valued at £200 to £300, this portrait of a 17th century young man (looking more like a pantomime dame) did not deter the bidder paying £3,900.

Painted by Mary Beale (1633-1699), the long overdue levelling up of prices for female artists works means that this picture made a premium price in the recent specialist auction. Mary Beale was working in an era prior to the Royal Academy of Art being established, however it is interesting to note that apart

from the founder members of the RA in 1768 - Angelica Kaufman along with Mary Moser - it then took another 160 years before Dame Laura Knight became the first female artist to be elected full membership in 1936. Her success in the male-dominated British art establishment paved the way for greater status and recognition for female artists. Although the painting was not signed, the portrait was painted in a carved stone oval which is something of

By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer

a trademark for Mary Beale and helped to attribute this picture as a work by her.

Mary Beale occupies a distinguished place in British art history as one of the first professional female painters to achieve both critical and commercial success. Working in London during the Restoration period, she established a thriving portrait practice at a time when professional opportunities for women were extremely limited.

By the 1670s she was earning a substantial income from painting, making her one of the earliest English women to support a family through artistic practice.

For many years after her death, Beale’s reputation was overshadowed by her male contemporaries. However, recent museum exhibitions and renewed interest in overlooked female artists have restored her standing as a significant figure in 17th Century British art.

In 2025, a portrait by her sold at auction for £22,100, reflecting growing demand for her pictures. Auction sales of works by women artists have increased significantly in recent years. Women artists represented 13.8% of auction sales value in 2024, more than double their share in 2018. Although inequalities remain, the art market is increasingly recognising the importance and value of women’s artistic achievements.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

Refresh Your Home This Summer with Holywell Carpets HOLYWELL CARPETS

As the days grow longer and sunlight fills our homes, summer is the perfect time to refresh the spaces we live in. Whether you’re planning family gatherings, welcoming guests, or simply wanting to enjoy a brighter, more stylish home, new flooring can make a remarkable difference. At Holywell Carpets, we help homeowners across Chesterfield and the surrounding area transform tired rooms into welcoming, comfortable spaces. From luxurious carpets to practical and beautiful Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), we offer flooring solutions for every room and every lifestyle.

Summer Flooring Trends

This season, many homeowners are choosing light, natural finishes that make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. Popular choices include:

• Natural oak-effect LVT

• Stylish herringbone designs

• Soft neutral carpets

• Easy-care flooring for busy family homes

• Durable flooring for hallways and entrances

Whatever your style, our experienced team can help you find the perfect flooring to complement your home.

Refresh Every Room

Living Room

Create a warm, welcoming space for relaxing and entertaining. Kitchen & Dining Areas

Choose practical, hard-wearing flooring that combines style with easy maintenance. Hallways & Stairs

Make a great first impression with flooring designed to withstand everyday family life. Bedrooms

Add comfort and luxury with a beautiful new carpet underfoot.

Why Choose Holywell Carpets?

As a Derbyshire Trusted Trader, Holywell Carpets has built a reputation for quality products, expert advice, and outstanding customer service. Our knowledgeable team will guide you through every step of the process, from selecting the right flooring to arranging professional fitting. We offer:

• Extensive range of carpets and flooring

• Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

• Vinyl and laminate flooring

• Expert measuring service

• Professional fitting

• Friendly, honest advice

• Competitive pricing

A Home Transformation Starts From The Floor Up

Many customers tell us they are amazed at the difference new flooring makes. A refreshed floor can instantly brighten a room, modernise a home, and create a more comfortable environment for everyday living. Whether you’re updating a single room or planning a complete home makeover, Holywell Carpets can help bring your vision to life.

Visit Our Showroom

This summer, discover how easy it can be to transform your home with beautiful new flooring. Visit our Chesterfield showroom, explore hundreds of flooring options, and speak to our experienced team about your next project.

Derbyshire Trusted Trader

Holywell Carpets is also a Derbyshire Trusted Trader, meaning the company works to strict standards of fairness, reliability, and quality. Customers can choose with confidence, knowing they are dealing with a vetted, reputable, and highly trusted local 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.”

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.”

Rae Helm Perkins

“Thrilled again with the flooring received and fitted by Holywell. The quality is superb and the price was unbeatable compared with several other quotes.”

A Company Built on Honesty, Quality, and Care

If you are looking for an honest, courteous, and dependable service - delivered by people who genuinely care about the finished result - look no further than Holywell Carpets.

This summer, step into a home that feels brighter, fresher, and beautifully ready for the sunny season ahead.

“I just thought I was weird …”

Libby

Langley was

always a high achiever – a successful business owner, consultant, author and podcaster. So why, for so long, did she feel ‘on the fringe’ of everything?

After being diagnosed at the age of 48 as autistic ADHD, Libby shares a deeply personal insight into how being neurodivergent has affected her emotionally and practically throughout her life and how her new-found knowledge shapes her present - and future.

I always had a strong imagination – lots of ideas and energy but then these enormous crashes.

I ‘ve felt as though I’m on the fringes of everything and that I live slightly removed from the rest of the world. It’s not necessarily true – but I feel it to be true. It feels like living in a dream.

Growing up, life could be very challenging but I just always thought it was down to loneliness or not fitting in; not being part of the cool gang and being misunderstood.

The key things that make life challenging for me are changes to routine and not knowing what’s going to happen – for example going somewhere and not knowing where to park. I don’t do certain things or go to certain places if I don’t know how to get there. I don’t like going to new places on my own. The self-doubt can be absolutely paralysing and the fear of rejection is chronic.

When people started talking about ADHD and people I knew in the online space were being diagnosed, it started to make sense.

I went to a talk about ADHD because, once I latch on to an idea, I become hyper focused. The woman next to me said: “You need to get your autism diagnosis as well.” I thought: “That’s

Above: Libby was the keynote speaker at the 2024 PREVO conference. PREVO is the annual national conference for Empowered Brands, a franchise organisation in the health and fitness sector

rude!” I felt really insulted. I always knew I didn’t fit in – but of course I wasn’t autistic!

But I did all the online tests and scored extremely highly. Then I paid for a private assessment.

I’d been an achiever in my career and in my own business. Working in social media training and strategy, I could read up on anything new and translate it for other people in an easy-to-understand language.

I now know that my brain is wired for pattern recognition. So, when coaching business clients, I spot inconsistencies quickly and can usually see the real issue underneath the drama within a few minutes.

However, the diagnosis itself was shocking. I cried all the way through the assessment and was told during it that emotional regulation is one of the factors.

I was bereft. I felt guilt and shame. I was mortified that I was not ‘normal’. It is a disability. I didn’t feel that I fitted into that category. I don’t class myself as disabled.

After my diagnosis, I went into full autism / ADHD mode, talking about it and learning all about it. I recognised my brain processes things differently and I appreciate that now.

Autism allows me to be so intensely desolate about something one day and then not bothered at all the next.

Thankfully, I’ve got the world’s greatest husband, Jon, who’s been through this with me. I’ve found it quite hard to maintain relationships in the past. I forget about people sometimes or assume they’re not interested in me. Friendships have been hurt when I’ve thought they’ve found someone better. And I’ve also dropped friendships when I’ve decided they’ve run their course.

Jon and I were friends before we got together and we always said we’d be honest with each other. I’ve allowed myself to be completely open and honest with him. It’s the only relationship I’ve ever had like that. It’s freeing to be allowed to be as ‘crazy’ as I need to be at times.

The trouble with neurodiversity, particularly in women, is that we spend

our lives masking and covering up how we’re really feeling and what we’re going through. Pretending we are not as we are. Jon always allows me not to do that.

My first years in business were fullon. Then I crashed and burned out. I had to change things and now I have very strict boundaries. I say ‘no’ to stuff and that’s good for my mental health.

Has it meant I haven’t moved forward as much as I could have done? Yes. But it’s more sustainable.

One of the myths around autism is that you have to look or ‘be’ a certain way. When I told a friend of 10 years that I was autistic, he said I couldn’t be and that was really hurtful. Other people have said they never would have guessed, that I ‘don’t seem’ autistic. But they don’t know what’s going on inside.

Having said that, I don’t like to think of it in a negative way. In some ways I’m grateful – autism actually gives me skills to see and do things that other people don’t have.

Generationally, autism wasn’t a ‘thing’. But if I look at my grandmother, I can see where it comes from. I can recognise patterns and behaviours.

The self-awareness has, for me, been the best thing - just knowing and managing my energy levels. Three members of my family have also been referred or diagnosed as

“I knew of autism as a neurological condition. I thought I was too ‘normal’ to be autistic and yet I never felt normal, never felt I could do things right.”

autistic / ADHD, all in their teens or 20s.

I’ve wondered whether I would have preferred to have a diagnosis at 18 or whether it’s easier to deal with as an adult. In a way, I’m pleased I found out in my late 40s because I can now shape my life accordingly.

However, the world is more accepting and inclusive than it was when I was 18. So, I’m kind of sad that the younger me went through life being different and feeling weird. I still feel those things, but now I understand why and it’s given me a new focus in my business.

It’s really important to me as a business coach that I offer a completely safe and supportive space for anyone on any fringes of ‘normality’. I provide the space for people to live in their own reality and to take away the masking that’s still so necessary in the rest of life.

It’s not that more people are autistic or ADHD, but we are, thankfully, talking about it more and it’s firmly under the banner of mental health. Autism isn’t something good or bad – it’s just something that exists.”

• Libby Langley is the author of Life in Business – Easy Ways to Work Less, Earn More and Embrace True Happiness. She also hosts the podcast Messy Business. Learn more at: https://libbylangley.com/

TRANSFORM YOUR CONSERVATORY WITH A NEW ROOF

Top Signs Your Conservatory Roof Needs Replacing

ACONSERVATORY can add valuable space and natural light to your home, but over time the roof may start to show signs of wear. Many homeowners across Chesterfield and Derbyshire find that older conservatory roofs struggle with insulation, leaks, and structural wear. If your conservatory is no longer comfortable to use throughout the year, it could be time to consider a conservatory roof replacement. Here at HeatGuard, we use a variety of roof styles from Ultraframe to transform the thermal performance of your conservatory.

Recognising the early warning signs can help you address problems before they become more expensive repairs.

Your Conservatory Is Too Hot in Summer and Too Cold in Winter

One of the most common problems with older conservatories is poor temperature control. Many homeowners in the UK find that their conservatory becomes too cold for comfort during winter or too hot during the summer, making the space difficult to use year-round.

This usually happens when older polycarbonate roofs or outdated glazing systems allow heat to escape during colder months. Modern insulated conservatory warm roofs are designed to regulate temperature far more effectively, helping to keep the room comfortable throughout the year. If your conservatory is only usable for a few months of the year, it may be a strong indicator that the roof is no longer performing efficiently.

Leaks or Water Entering the Conservatory

Water leaks are another major sign that your conservatory roof needs attention. Over time, seals may become worn and roof panels may shift. These

issues allow rainwater to enter the structure. The major signs of your roof’s performance diminishing are damp areas inside the conservatory, water dripping, and mould or condensation forming inside the conservatory.

Ignoring leaks can lead to more serious structural problems, so replacing the roof can often be the most effective long-term solution.

Visible Damage or Ageing Roof Panels

Physical damage is another clear sign your conservatory roof may need replacing. Over years of exposure to the weather, older roof panels can become fragile, cracked, or discoloured. Even small cracks can eventually lead to leaks or heat loss, which is why many homeowners choose to upgrade to a stronger, more energy-efficient roof. Such as a tiled, glass, or solid conservatory roof.

The Roof Is Very Noisy During Rain

If heavy rain sounds extremely loud on your conservatory roof, this is often a sign that the roof material is outdated. Outdated polycarbonate roofs can amplify the sound of rain and wind. Modern conservatory roof systems include better insulation and stronger materials that significantly reduce outside noise, creating a much quieter and more relaxing living space.

After that you may have a few questions. Below are questions that are frequently asked by homeowners like you. We’re here to answer them and solve them.

How Long Does a Conservatory Roof Last?

The lifespan of a conservatory roof depends largely on the materials used and the quality of the original installation. Traditional polycarbonate

conservatory roofs typically last around 10–15 years before they begin to show signs of wear. Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather can cause panels to weaken, discolour, or lose their insulating properties.

Glass roofs generally last longer, often 20 years or more, but older glazing may still lack modern thermal efficiency.

Modern insulated conservatory roofs are designed with durability and energy efficiency in mind. With proper installation and maintenance, they can last 20–30 years or longer, while significantly improving comfort inside the conservatory.

If your conservatory roof is more than 15 years old and showing signs of deterioration, it may be worth considering a replacement.

Can You Replace Just the Conservatory Roof?

Yes, in many cases you can replace just the conservatory roof without rebuilding the entire structure. This is often referred to as a conservatory roof upgrade or replacement, and it can transform the space without the cost of constructing a new conservatory.

Here at HeatGuard, our conservatory roofs can be designed to match the shape and configuration of your conservatory. Whether you have a standard shape or a bespoke conservatory shape, HeatGuard will be able to provide you with an excellent conservatory roof that suits your home.

Replacing the roof alone is often much faster and more affordable than building a completely new extension. Our roof installations can be completed

within just a few days and cause very little disruption to your home.

For homeowners who struggle with temperature issues, leaks, or outdated roofing materials, replacing the roof can be one of the most effective ways to modernise a conservatory and make it comfortable to use all year round.

Transform Your Conservatory Into a Year-Round Living Space

For many homeowners across Chesterfield, Sheffield, and Derbyshire, replacing an ageing conservatory roof can completely transform the space. HeatGuard’s modern conservatory roofs provide quick installation, improved insulation, reduced noise and sun glare, and increased energy efficiency.

In many cases, replacing the roof is a more cost-effective alternative to building a full home extension, while still allowing you to enjoy the extra space throughout the year.

If your conservatory shows any of the signs above, it may be time to consider upgrading to a modern roof system that can turn your conservatory into a comfortable living area all year round.

You can keep up to date with informative posts, new articles, and customer gallery images on our Facebook @HeatGuardWindows

SCAN TO READ MORE ARTICLES ABOUT

Windows, Doors, Conservatories on the HeatGuard website

Ready, steady … eat!

PROFESSIONAL eater Leah Shutkever has set the first official time to beat in a new Bakewell Tart eating challenge.

Multiple Guinness World Record holder Leah became the first person to attempt the challenge, which sees participants tackle an entire 12-slice Bakewell ‘Party’ Tart against the clock.

The challenge - launched to celebrate National Bakewell Tart Day on 24th June - was filmed for Leah’s social media channels and YouTube account.

National Bakewell Tart Day is an annual celebration created by The Bakewell Tart Shop, on Matlock Street, which welcomes around 100,000 visitors each year.

Leah, who holds more than 40 Guinness World Records for competitive eating, completed the challenge in 25 minutes and 51 seconds, setting the benchmark for future contestants.

Challengers have 45 minutes to finish the tart. Those who succeed earn a place on The Bakewell Tart Shop’s Wall of Fame, along with a branded apron and water bottle.

High Tor Players win top award

HIGH Tor Players have scooped awards for Best Play in the East Midlands and Outstanding Play from the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) for their production of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible.

Alicia Bloundelle, chair of the

Matlock-based amateur drama group, said: “Winning both awards for the East Midlands is an incredible achievement. This recognition belongs to everyone who played a part in making the production such a success. It was a privilege to bring this powerful story to the stage, and we are thrilled to see the dedication, talent and teamwork behind it acknowledged in this way.”

Derbyshire tourism stars celebrate success

FOUR Derbyshire tourism businesses and individuals have won national recognition in the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026.

Hoe Grange Holidays in Brassington won Gold in the Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award category, while Silver awards went

Winners from Hoe Grange Holidays, Gold winner of the Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award.

to The Tickled Trout, Barlow (Pub of the Year), Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield (Small Hotel of the Year) and Viv Smith, National Stone Centre (Unsung Hero Award).

All four national finalists secured their place at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence after winning Gold at the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards in March.

The awards, which have championed the very best of England’s tourism industry for more than 35 years, recognise excellence across accommodation, attractions, accessibility, food and drink, visitor experiences and customer service.

• Tourism and hospitality businesses across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are being invited to apply for the newly launched Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards 2026/2027, celebrating excellence across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire’s visitor economy.

The awards aim to showcase the innovation, quality, sustainability and customer experience delivered across the region’s tourism and hospitality industry while helping raise the profile of the East Midlands as a leading UK visitor destination. Applications close on 26th July.

Learn more at: https:// visitpeakdistrict.com/industry/ events/category/tourism-awards

Rotary Bakewell Grants

ROTARY Bakewell’s Small Grant Scheme is open for applications until Friday 31st July.

Providing non-recurrent grants of up to £400, it is available to help community and voluntary sector organisations or groups with projects that benefit the wider community. Projects should be small-scale and provide opportunities for local people to be involved in their local community.

For an application form, email: bakewellrotarysmallgrants@btinternet.com

The garden at 2 Haddon View, Stanton in Peak

High summer … AND PEAK PERFECTION

As gardens reach their summer peak, Tracy Reid and Fiona Stubbs take a glimpse into some of Derbyshire’s open garden events

DURING July, summer gardens are at their peak and hopefully we’ll be enjoying some sunny days.

The Big Barlborough Festival will take place over the weekend of 11th and 12th July with lots of events throughout the village as well as five gardens opening for the National Garden Scheme.

For a combined admission of £7 you can visit all the gardens and, perhaps, enjoy some tea and cake along the way.

A spectacular garden in Cressbrooknot far from the Monsal Trail - is open on

COLOUR AND CHARACTER

THE award-winning garden at Byways, 7a Brookfield Avenue, Chesterfield will open over the weekend of 1st and 2nd August (11.30an to 4.30pm).

Celebrated for its colour and large perennial borders, the garden will be open for its 15th year, with seating areas throughout for visitors to enjoy tea and homemade cakes. A large pergola, housing acers, hostas and ferns, offers a special oasis of calm. Admission is £4; children free.

Sunday 19th July. The south-facing terraced garden at 49 Middle Row shows what can be achieved on a challenging site and is well worth a visit. Refreshments are available at the Cressbrook club next door.

The following weekend, 25th and 26th July, a delightful pair of gardens open in Stanton in Peak. The hillside cottage garden at 2 Haddon View offers traditional tea, coffee and cake while Woodend Cottage includes a veg plot and unique grotto. You can also find a pop-up pub here, serving draught ale from a local brewery.

There are gardens open every weekend during July so do head to the website ngs.org.uk for all gardens opening throughout the county and beyond.

Secret Gardens of Winster

A historic Derbyshire village promises fun for all the family over the weekend of 18th and 19th July (1.30pm to 5.30pm) with the annual Secret Gardens of Winster event.

Winster was at the heart of the late 17th and 18th century lead mining boom, resulting in impressive buildings and unique dwellings – with fascinating and individual gardens.

The Secret Gardens of Winster event has become a highlight in the village calendar for both locals and visitors and this year will see around 20 gardens opening.

There will be refreshments and cream teas and some venues are licensed. There is a garden with live jazz and dog-friendly

gardens. Other attractions include craft stalls, accessible gardens, Morris dancing, Wyns Tor Singers and a free gnome trail for youngsters with a prize at the end.  The village church will house an art exhibition curated by a local artist.

One of the gardens will host the Wirksworth Mines Research Group for a second year.  Orchard Mine will be illuminated for the public to view with a display of underground photos of the mine.  Experts will be on hand to inform and to answer any questions.

Above: Looking over the rooftops from one of the secret gardens of Winster

Village projects benefitting from last year’s Secret Gardens include the Village Christmas Tree, Defibrillator upkeep, Pancake Races and School PTFA with the bulk contributing towards the upkeep of the Burton Institute village hall. Learn more at www. secretgardensofwinster.org.uk or follow Secret Gardens of Winster on Facebook to keep updated.

Pan fried seabass fillet, parmentier potatoes, samphire & caviar with a white wine beurre blanc

With Faye Norris and Liam Penney at the White Horse Inn, Woolley Moor

THE White Horse Inn at Woolley Moor embraces the fabulous produce that the local area has to offer. Sourcing, where possible, from the Peak District and Derbyshire, it makes the most of seasonal fruit and vegetables as well as locally reared meat and locally produced dairy. Following the seasons closely allows the team to offer food that is fresh and appropriate to the time of year. Why not try this delicious dish, full of summer flavour?

FOR THE SEA BASS

Ingredients

• 150g seabass fillet

• Salt & pepper

• 2 tsp butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Squeeze of lemon juice

Method

Season fish fillet

Heat oil in a pan

Sear the fish, skin down, until the skin is crispy. Add butter

Remove from heat, flip the fish over and leave in pan to finish cooking

WHITE WINE BEURRE BLANC

Ingredients

• 1 shallot

• 3 garlic cloves

• 100ml white wine

• 100ml fish stock

• 2 springs of thyme

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 100ml double cream

• 50g butter

• Salt & pepper

Method

Soften garlic, shallot and thyme

Add white wine, lemon juice and fish stockand reduce by half

Add cream and reduce by half

Remove from heat, whisk in butter and season

PARMENTIER POTATOES

• 1 large Koftman potato

• 2tbsp Butter

• 2tbsp Olive oil

• 3 Sprigs Thyme

• 1 Litre Veg Stock

• 2 Cloves Garlic

• Salt & Pepper

Method

Peel and cut potato into uniform cubes

Part cook in veg stock

Drain and roast in oven with garlic, butter, oil, thyme, salt & pepper until golden brown

Dress the dish with caviar, samphire and peashootsand drizzle with dill oil

The White Horse Woolley

Badger Ln, Woolley Moor, Alfreton DE55 6FG Tel: 01246 590319

thewhitehorsewoolleymoor.co.uk

Town’s rich heritage inspires a year of cultural treats

As Belper marks two key dates in the life of pioneering industrialist

Jedidiah Strutt, historian Adrian Farmer gives an insight into the celebrations, the man and the industrial community he created

IT’S a busy year for the town of Belper as 2026 marks a significant anniversaryencouraging people with a whole swathe of different interests and talents to pull together a calendar of activities.

One thing they all agree on is that Belper deserves to be celebrated. It has twice been a winner in the UK’s Great British High Street Awards and it’s the only town in the East Midlands to be part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s a strong community spirit in the town and plenty of people willing to try out new ways of celebrating its distinctiveness.

This year’s activities fall under

a ‘Belper 250’ umbrella. In terms of towns, 250 years isn’t much compared to, for example, Ripley which received its town charter from King Henry III 775 years ago. Belper has existed much longer than 250 years, but 1776 was the year it took its first step from small rural village to becoming the world’s first cotton mill town.

The key player in that was Jedidiah Strutt, a wheelwright’s apprentice with a talent for mechanics, who went on to develop and patent the Derby Rib. Effectively, it’s the technology which enabled the mass-production of socks that stay up when you pull them up.

Jedidiah and his family went on to develop a hosiery business in Derby, which raised the need for good-quality cotton

thread. Richard Arkwright presented a solution to that, and it was Strutt money that helped ensure the world’s first successful water-powered cotton mill which opened in Cromford in 1771. The era of the modern factory system had begun.

Five years later, Jedidiah built his own cotton mill, powered by the River Derwent. In choosing that site, 250 years ago, he impacted on the community of Belper more than anyone else in its history. From the building of that first mill, he built another … and another. It’s been claimed that by the 1820s his sons had created the world’s largest industrial site under single ownership.

But it wasn’t just about mills – Jedidiah created an

Left: Jedidiah Strutt. Picture courtesy of Belper Historical Society

Below: Long Row, Belper

industrial community of a size unprecedented in the world at that time. He needed workers - and lots of them - so created houses of a quality far finer than anything working people had ever had before, in Derbyshire or beyond. It brought them in – in their hundreds, then thousands. He could have stopped at that point, but as a free-thinking non-conformist, specifically a Unitarian, he felt it important his workers were formally educated. Later, there were reading rooms, to encourage workers to read newspapers and books, enriching their understanding of the world, when other millowners were fining or firing workers found with a newspaper or journal, for fear they learn too much about the outside world.

So Belper has good reason to be grateful to Jedidiah and his descendants, and that’s why there are over 100 events taking place across the year to mark the anniversary of that first mill.

Highlights so far this year have included a celebration of the town’s links with the River Derwent, which saw about 80 people take to the river in kayaks and on paddleboards for a community trip upriver to Ambergate and back. This was followed with performances on the bandstand in the town’s beautiful River Gardens, including a ‘wedding’ between the town and the river.

“He was the world’s first industrialist to develop

a Sunday School, eventually making the ability to read and write essential requirements before they could work at the mill.”

In May, the multi-talented Judith Hibbert gave three performances of Peek Through a Long Row Window, a remarkable one-woman show, researched and written by Judith, and including lots of wonderful songs, some of which she wrote herself. Her story, of people living

in the mill workers’ cottages on Belper’s Long Row, in the first half of the 20th century, was a heady mix of music, pathos and humour, supported by many projected images from Belper’s past. All performances attracted capacity audiences and raised over £1,000 for Belper Unitarians, The No.28 Community Centre Accessible Toilet Fund and Pride in Belper. There’s still a lot to come in 2026, particularly in July, when we reach the

300th anniversary of the birth of Jedidiah. From the 18th to the 31st, the annual Woollen Woods celebration will be filling the churchyard at St Peter’s with hundreds of knitted cakes and candles, heritage themed tableaux and supporting information.

If you like a knitted topper on a mailbox, you’ll love what the Woollen Woods team have planned for Belper this time!

The 300th anniversary itself is on Sunday 26th July and starts at the town’s Unitarian Chapel, built by Jedidiah in 1789, with a commemorative service at 11am. Strutt family members from across the globe have been invited to attend, and the service is open to everyone.

For the rest of the day, the town’s traders have created the first Love Belper Festival, a daylong free celebration across the town centre with music, dance, theatre, crafts, food and pop-up heritage in the streets of the town.

Two weeks later, there’s a traditional horticultural show in the grounds of the Central Methodist Church on Chapel Street, organised by the town’s Gardening Club, with historical information on how the town has been fed over the past 250 years.

There are lots of exhibitions, guided walks and talks from the Belper North Mill Trust and others in the months ahead, as well as rare heritage open events, including on September 26th the early millworkers’ housing of Berkins Court and Jedidiah’s chapel.

On October 3rd, Four Characters in Search of a Fortune, a new play with music by George Gunby and John Tams, premieres

Left: Celebrating Belper’s links with the River Derwent with a community trip in kayaks and on paddleboards

at St Peter’s Church. Set in the Derwent Valley, its characters tell stories from Derby, Belper and Cromford as the mills built by Lombe, Strutt and Arkwright drove the Industrial Revolution. And there’s a Hallowe’en Ghost Walk by Kevin Fegan, presented by Company Blood Community Theatre, joining the Strutt Nightwatchman as he patrols the eerie streets of Belper, conjuring up strange characters and ghostly scenes from mid-19th century Belper. There’s so much more to see and do, and the easiest way to find out what and when activities are taking place, is to visit www.belper250.co.uk.

Of course, Jedidiah and Belper’s stories are about cotton, and people in the town are determined they shouldn’t and mustn’t shy away from the truth that the history of cotton is a dark one. Whilst providing for their workers in Belper, the Strutts bought cotton that was picked by enslaved workers across the Atlantic. One of the largest suppliers of cotton was the island of Carriacou and the Belper community has reached out and hosted descendants of those enslaved workers, with plans for a ‘Reconnection Project’ to ensure their contribution to the town’s history is recognised and acknowledged.

In all, it’s been a great year so far for Belper, and there’s no better time than this anniversary year to drop in on this remarkable community with a big story to tell. There’s something for everyone!

1 Post-ring syndrome from a drop of wallop? (5-5)

5 Raider soldier who adds nothing to the order (8)

15 Prods all too easily with a wedge (8)

18 What VIP’s did as a body? (3,2,5)

1 Bought the novelty pud as a chaser (9)

2 Mistakes that can cause a cop to suck on a lemon! (7)

8 Rude way to attack? (9)

10 Pull off wet clothing? Cleverly expressed! (4,3)

9 Male bird taking a roach for an insect (4)

10 False predator cry? (4)

11 Carefully drape the chaplain (5)

12 Rose-buds bore out the froth (4)

14 Sediment of legumes, without a sticky centre (4) DOWN

3 Some pilgrim to give you lip! (3)

4 Deceive, but not the old goat (3)

6 Mental attitude that should mend its ways! (7)

7 One is very taken with new prefix (3)

13 Award included for theoddson favourite (3)

16 Lubricate the painting? (3)

17 Resort to a bit of bananaskin humour (3)

The solutions for the June 2026 Pitcherwits are shown left. The answers to July’s 2026 Pitcherwits are shown on page 66 of this magazine.

For free puzzles and book sales, go to: www.pitcherwits.co.uk

Free p+p for Reflections readers quote: REFLRFPP

Prize Crossword

ACROSS

1 Cherubic, but not her in three dimensions (5)

4 Frustrated, draw a blank with no ban west of Grangemill (7)

8 Before you answer this, it’s a rip-off at root (5,2)

9 ATM hopelessly awry at the museum (7)

11 Kebab in lacey wrapping at Ticknall country house (5,5)

12 How to sort out our hills? (4)

14 Invalid ending on top (3)

15 Consumes scone at sports centre (4)

17 Nasty ending for the pig pen (3)

19 The mother of all Tors? (3)

20 Abbey, a memorable part of this village (4)

21 Another side to that lady! (3)

23 Too slow be seen in, at the head of a fjord. (4)

25 Co-ed crew to turn out out near the Staffs border (10)

27 Lad rang about the day of the King in Castleton (7)

28 List not compiled? That’s a cheesy one from Hartington! (7)

29 Quietly downed the plans of a watering hole (7)

30 Wails at fashion centre wise ones (5)

1 Curricula to curl away from RC admin centre (5)

2 Put up with being streamed? (7)

3 “Mayo!” chant causing havoc North of Ilkeston (9)

5 Joan’s club consort in the city? (5)

6 Allows in and says it’s true! (6)

7 NZ parrot at Calke abbey (3)

10 Crooked yeoman to rob above Foolow (5,4)

13 Lasso you can fashion out of a bean (3)

14 Brewing ale in pasture (3)

16 Belper to the right of this CD in truth (well maybe) (9)

18 Road glue for sailor Jack (3)

19 Moon-watchers first to talk bull? (3)

21 Who needs luck, in order to find ‘glider village’? (7)

22 Peak place of wool that’s worn out (6)

24 Southern tough? Just a bit of pot! (5)

25 Capable claim, oddly face down, with a few missing (3-2)

26 Sounds the horn also up the street (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 July 19th, 2026, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the June 2026 crossword can be found on page 66 of this issue.

Crossword by Prof Rebus

IN EACH OTHER’S FOOTSTEPSWalking

Pilgrimages are becoming increasingly popular, serving both spiritual and secular intentions. But where does one begin and where does it end? Hanna Varga introduces the Peak Wesley Way pilgrimage

DOES it begin when you book the journey? Does it begin with the careful preparation of what to take with you in your backpack and which hiking boots to choose?

Or does it begin when you take the first physical step on the trail, moving forward towards the destination slowly, one step at a time. In this article I hope to inspire and introduce you to the enlivening experience a

pilgrimage can offer. There are many pilgrimages to choose from across the world, and even within the UK.

This one - the Peak Wesley Way - is a modest six-day route in the Peak District National Park, taking you across breathtaking landscapes from the White Peak to the Dark Peak.

Pilgrims are encouraged to reach their official starting point in Matlock, Derbyshire by train in order to reduce their carbon footprint, thereby offering an environmentally conscious holiday option, much welcomed by the residents of the Peak District. The self-guided and well-signposted route begins straight after you step off the train on the platform.

Some of you reading this may ask how exactly a pilgrimage differs from a long-distance hike.

At a time when ‘hiking trends’ are thriving on Instagram, some may think pilgrimage is an obsolete, ancient practice that is no longer relevant today, except for the religious among us, such as Dame Sarah Mullaly, who earlier this year walked a new six-day pilgrimage route from St Paul’s Cathedral, London to Canterbury Cathedral, leading up to her installation as the new Archbishop of Canterbury.

Yet, far from outdated, pilgrimage has undergone a revival in recent years as pilgrims, whether religious or secular, step away from their daily routines to embark on an intentional journey of reflection, discovery and transformation.

The Peak Wesley Way welcomes pilgrims of all faiths and none, true to the values of Methodism as an

inclusive church with a long history of being an advocate for social justice – and challenging injustice.

It is an initiative that was made possible thanks to those who care about the future of rural Methodist chapels, while recognising that their chapels have a new mission and a story to tell. The chapels are offered as accommodation to pilgrims while still being used as active places of worship and community use, such as for uniformed organisations, repair cafés, art exhibitions, concerts, bookshops and local clubs.

Whichever way it begins…

Does it end when you take the last steps on a trail you walked?

Does it end when you collect your last stamp at Edale Chapel?

The Peak Wesley Way ends in Edale after six days of walking from the gentle White Peak,

through picturesque dales and rolling hills, northwards to the more rugged Dark Peak with its famous Edges.

The stunning scenery still bears the marks of generations of farmers, miners, industrialists and travellers, including those preachers who made extraordinary journeys on horseback or on foot, bringing their good news and founding the Methodist chapels.

Earlier this year, the Peak Wesley Way welcomed its 200th pilgrim, two years after opening the pilgrimage route and offering its chapels as overnight accommodation to pilgrims.

Does it end when you arrive back home, unpack, and wash your weathered pilgrim clothes?

Or does it end when you begin to reflect on the slow journey on foot you undertook and start integrating the

learning gained from the experiences along the way?

Does it end when you read your journal, or do you collect your experiences and write a book, opening a new chapter in your life?

I conclude with a reminder of how any pilgrimage or walk you choose to go on is connected to the journey of a human life, through the words of Archbishop Sarah after she reached

Canterbury Cathedral: “Each of us has our own story, but we are also part of bigger stories.”

• Pilgrim bookings on the Peak Wesley Way for 2026 are open until the end of October, or you can book ahead for 2027. The pilgrimage is available to walk all year round, but some chapels are not available for accommodation during the winter months (November to February). Learn more at: peakwesleyway.com

The colours of summer

EARLY summer in all its colourful glory is captured by our creative amateur photographers this month. You don’t need to venture far to discover beauty, as two of our photographers reveal. Russ Teale, of Newbold, shares an image of wildflowers on a roundabout close to Holmebrook Valley Park. Meanwhile, Tony Wilson,

from Chesterfield, was impressed by the wild blooms greeting passengers travelling to and from the town’s coach station. Roses are synonymous with

summer and Heather Reddish, of Brimington, photographed these vibrant blooms in Bakewell’s Bath Gardens, overlooking Rutland Square.

Kevin Smith, from Matlock, shares a stunning array of rhododendrons from a visit to Lea Gardens while Lisa Hands, from Sheffield, captured the glorious green colours of early summer beside the River Derwent in Matlock Bath.

This year is being hailed as an exceptional one for poppies, thanks to favourable winter and spring conditions. Alison Parker, of Clay Cross,

discovered this beautiful field of poppies near Middle Handley.

The countryside offers some spectacular photographic opportunities at this time of year as Andrea Paddison, from Wingerworth, highlights with this gorgeous image of sunset at Beeley Moor.

And James Peck, from Tansley, captures the pictureperfect blues and greens of summer with this commanding

view of Ladybower Reservoir and the Upper Derwent Valley from Bamford Edge. Please keep sending

your pictures to this year’s competition 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.

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.

WHY I KEEP RETURNING TO Fred. Olsen Cruises

Written by Sarah Wilson of Martins

OVER the years, my family and I have been fortunate enough to travel with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines on a number of occasions, and each voyage has left us with wonderful memories. We have explored some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, including the majestic Norwegian fjords, the scenic waterways of France, the colourful ports of Spain and Portugal, and the stunning islands of the Azores. While the destinations themselves have been spectacular, it is the overall Fred. Olsen experience that has kept us returning time and time again.

What makes Fred. Olsen different becomes apparent from the moment you step on board. There is an immediate sense of warmth and friendliness that is difficult to describe but impossible to miss. Rather than feeling like one of thousands of passengers, you feel genuinely welcomed. The crew are renowned for their

attentive service, and many seem to remember returning guests, creating an atmosphere that feels more like joining a family than boarding a cruise ship. Within hours of arriving, you find yourself relaxing into the slower pace of life at sea.

The ships themselves have a charm that sets them apart from many modern mega-ships. They retain the elegance and character of traditional ocean cruising, with beautifully designed lounges, comfortable public spaces, and a relaxed ambience throughout. Walking through the ship feels more like being in a welcoming country house hotel than a floating resort. There is a sense of style and sophistication, yet everything feels comfortable and unpretentious.

One of the things I particularly enjoy is the onboard entertainment. The beautifully appointed theatres provide an elegant setting where guests can enjoy a varied programme of performances throughout their voyage. From talented singers and musicians to comedy acts, guest entertainers and production shows, there is always something to look forward to in the evenings. Beyond the theatre, live music can be found throughout the ship in lounges and bars, creating a wonderful atmosphere whether you are enjoying a pre-dinner drink or simply relaxing with

World Travel

friends. There are also fascinating guest speakers, quizzes, classes, and enrichment activities during the day, ensuring there is always something to suit every interest.

The onboard facilities are equally impressive. There are inviting lounges for reading and socialising, excellent restaurants serving high-quality food, swimming pools, fitness facilities, and spacious deck areas where you can sit back and admire the scenery. For those looking for a little extra indulgence, the spa offers the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

Fred. Olsen also offers excellent drinks packages, allowing guests to enjoy their holiday without worrying about the cost of every coffee, glass of wine or cocktail. The packages offer great value and add to the relaxed atmosphere that makes cruising with Fred. Olsen so enjoyable.

Accommodation is another area where Fred. Olsen excels. Whether you choose a comfortable interior cabin, an ocean-view room, a balcony cabin or one of the luxurious suites, there is an option to suit every budget and preference. The cabins are thoughtfully designed, comfortable and welcoming, providing a perfect place to relax after a day exploring ashore or enjoying life on board.

Of all the memories I have

from travelling with Fred. Olsen, one stands out above the rest. While visiting Flåm, one of Norway’s most picturesque fjord villages, I was sitting in a hot tub on the top deck of the ship. As I looked out across the fjord, I was surrounded by towering mountains rising dramatically from the water’s edge. Waterfalls cascaded down steep cliffs, clouds drifted across the peaks and the calm waters reflected the stunning landscape around us. The fresh mountain air and the sheer beauty of the scenery created one of those rare travel moments that stays with you forever. It was a reminder that some of the world’s most spectacular experiences are often the simplest.

Norway is particularly special for Fred. Olsen. The company’s heritage is deeply rooted in Norway, and this connection gives its fjord cruises a genuine authenticity. There is a real understanding of the region, its culture and its landscapes, which shines through in the itineraries and overall experience. When sailing through the fjords, it feels as though you are travelling with

a company that truly knows and loves the destination.

For travellers living in the North of England, there is also the convenience of sailing from regional ports such as Liverpool and Newcastle. Instead of travelling long distances to begin your holiday, you can step aboard much closer to home and start relaxing straight away. Here’s a concise editorial-style paragraph you could use:

Conveniently located on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, the terminal provides easy access by road, rail, and air, making embarkation simple and stress free. With excellent parking facilities, nearby hotels, and stunning views across the River Mersey, guests can start their holiday from the moment they arrive. Combined with Liverpool’s rich maritime heritage and vibrant city attractions, sailing from Liverpool adds an extra layer of convenience and enjoyment to every cruise experience.

Of course, choosing the right travel partner is equally important. Martins World Travel has built an outstanding reputation for personal service, expert advice, and attention to detail. Our knowledgeable team takes the time to understand what travellers are looking for and can help find the perfect Fred. Olsen itinerary to suit individual tastes and budgets. The reassurance of booking through a trusted local travel specialist adds another level of confidence and convenience

to the holiday experience.

For me, Fred. Olsen represents everything that cruising should be elegant ships, exceptional service, wonderful food, excellent entertainment, comfortable accommodation and carefully chosen destinations. More than that, it offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes every voyage feel special. It is not simply about reaching a destination; it is about enjoying every moment of the journey.

After many memorable cruises with my family, I can honestly say that, Fred. Olsen continues to offer some of the most enjoyable holidays we have ever experienced

AMAZING CRUISE EXAMPLES…

FJORDS

& MOUNTAINS OF NORWAY | JUN 27 | FRED. OLSEN.

From £1299 Inside 26 June 2027 , 9nts, Borealis (Adult Only) sailing from Liverpool

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From £1899 Inside 14 May 2027, 14nts, Borealis (Adult Only) sailing from Liverpool

Call or visit our friendly cruise specialists at..

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

ABTA BONDED.

Other Events

Well Dressing. Buxton’s annual Well Dressing and Carnival celebrates a tradition that dates back more than 180 years. Intricate pictures created from petals, seeds and other natural materials are displayed throughout the town alongside carnival activities and community events. buxtonwelldressing.co.uk

3–10 Rowsley Well Dressing. One of Derbyshire’s best-loved traditions, Rowsley Well Dressing features beautifully decorated wells created entirely from natural materials. Visitors can explore the displays while enjoying the village’s historic setting. rowsleyparishcouncil.gov.uk

4–5 Steampunk Market Weekend, Chesterfield. Step into a world of Victorian-inspired fantasy with themed entertainment, artisan traders, costumes, curiosities and live performances. The weekend concludes with a colourful

Steampunk Parade through Chesterfield town centre. visitchesterfield.info

8–26 Buxton Fringe Festival. One of the UK’s largest open-access arts festivals, the Fringe brings hundreds of performances to venues across Buxton. Expect theatre, comedy, music, dance, film, exhibitions and family entertainment throughout the festival period. www.buxtonfringe.org.uk

9–26 Buxton International Festival. This internationally acclaimed festival presents a programme of opera, classical music, jazz and literary events in venues across Buxton. Renowned performers appear alongside emerging talent in one of the Peak District’s leading cultural celebrations. www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

11–18 Chapel-en-le-Frith Well Dressing. This traditional Derbyshire well dressing features striking floral mosaics created from natural materials. Visitors can admire the displays while exploring the historic market town. www.chapel-en-le-frith.co.uk

11–19 Bamford Well Dressing. Celebrate Derbyshire’s unique well dressing tradition with a series of decorative displays crafted from petals, leaves and seeds. The event forms part of the village’s annual summer celebrations. www.visithopevalley.co.uk

11–19 Little Longstone Well Dressing. Beautifully decorated wells created from natural materials are displayed throughout the village as part of this longstanding Derbyshire tradition. www.longstonevillage.org.uk

11 Classic Ibiza at Chatsworth. A 32-piece orchestra, live vocalists and headline DJs combine to perform dance classics on the banks of the River Derwent. Set in the grounds

WADSHELF WELL DRESSING

Wadshelf’s Well Dressing will be on display from 4th to 10th July on the main road through the village.

The well will be blessed at 11am on Saturday 4th July. The village hall will be open for refreshments after the blessing until 3pm and between these times every day the well is on show.

There will be a collection box beside the well and all donations will go to the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre (dchc.org.uk) which has an appeal to raise £75,000 for holidays in 2026.

FILM NIGHT IN LOUNDSLEY GREEN

Loundsley Green Community Centre is to screen Good Fortune, starring Keanu Reeves, in its film night on Thursday 2nd July (6.30pm for 7pm start).

Reeves plays a well-meaning but rather inept angel named Gabriel who meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker (Aziz Ansari) and a wealthy venture capitalist (Seth Rogen).

of Chatsworth, the event offers an evening of music, food and summer entertainment. www.classicibiza. co.uk

12 Bakewell Country Festival. This popular family day out combines traditional agricultural attractions with entertainment, food, shopping and countryside activities. Highlights include animal encounters, classic vehicles, demonstrations and a packed programme of family-friendly attractions. www. bakewellcountryfestival.co.uk

12 Tansley Well Dressing. Tansley celebrates Derbyshire’s unique well dressing tradition with decorative displays crafted from flowers, seeds and natural materials. Visitors can enjoy the displays while exploring the village. www.tansleyparish.com

18–25 Whitwell Well Dressing. Whitwell’s well dressing celebrations showcase impressive floral mosaics created by local volunteers using traditional techniques. The event forms part of Derbyshire’s distinctive summer heritage calendar. www.whitwellparishcouncil.gov.uk

18–19 Chesterfield Children's Festival. A free family festival featuring music, theatre, storytelling, dance, workshops and creative activities. Held in Queen’s Park, the event celebrates imagination and play with entertainment for children of all ages. www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk

18–19 Secret Gardens of Winster. More than 20 private gardens open to the public across the picturesque Peak District village of Winster. Visitors can enjoy a gnome trail, plant sales, refreshments, live music and family activities. www.secretgardensofwinster.org.uk

24–26 Echo Fest, Derbyshire County Cricket Club. This family-friendly outdoor festival features tribute acts, live music, street food, bars and entertainment across a packed three-day programme. Each day showcases a different musical theme, from indie and rock classics to chart favourites. www.echofest.co.uk

25–26 Chesterfield Music Festival. A familyfocused weekend of live music, entertainment and festival fun. Taking place at Chesterfield Panthers Rugby Club, the event combines live performances with food, drink and activities for all ages. www.chesterfieldmusicfestival.co.uk

25 Leek & District Show. This long-running agricultural show celebrates farming, livestock and rural life. Attractions include trade stands, equestrian events, livestock classes, vintage vehicles, horticulture exhibits and family entertainment. www.leekshow.org.uk

25 Jul–2 Aug Bonsall Well Dressing. Bonsall’s annual well dressing displays showcase intricate artwork created from petals, seeds and natural materials. The event highlights one of Derbyshire’s most distinctive and enduring traditions. www.bonsallparish.org.uk

25 Jul–2 Aug Stoney Middleton Well Dressing. Visitors can enjoy beautifully crafted well dressings throughout the village, celebrating a centuries-old Derbyshire custom using natural materials and traditional techniques. www.stoneymiddletonvillage.co.uk

26 Love Belper Town Festival. A new community festival celebrating the heritage, creativity and spirit of Belper. Activities include food, drink, entertainment, shopping, demonstrations and family attractions spread across the town centre. www.lovebelpertown.co.uk

26 Cromford Mills Food & Drink Fair. Held within the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Cromford Mills, this food and drink fair showcases artisan producers, local food, craft drinks, street food and handmade products from across the region. www.cromfordmills.org.uk

AUGUST

1 Open Gardens in Curbar, Calver and Froggatt on 1st August. 11.am to 4pm. We have a selection of  over 15 beautiful hidden gardens spread throughout our picturesque villages. Delicious refreshments can be found in each village. Tickets  £5.00 can be purchased from these gardens or from Curbar Scout Hut and All Saints Church Curbar.  Proceeds are for the church.

Aug 23 Crafters Bazaar. Browse a wide range of surplus arts and crafts materials at Chesterfield Market. Shoppers can discover fabrics, yarns, paints, stationery and creative supplies, while makers and hobbyists have the opportunity to buy and sell unwanted materials. Open 10am–4pm. facebook.com/chesterfieldcraftersbazaar or instagram.com/chesterfieldcraftersbazaar

Please

THE DIRECTORY

Congratulations to K. Waton of Hasland who won the June 2026 crossword. They won £25

Why not try the July 2026 crossword on page 55?