Issuu

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

FROM COTTON TO COUTURE CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF HORROCKSES FALL INTO AUTUMN A CRISP NEW SEASON FROM SUPERYACHTS TO SUCCESS LYTHAM ENTREPRENEUR NAVIGATES HOSPITALITY

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 135

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CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

12 EIGHTY YEARS OF STYLE AND INNOVATION Horrockses Fashions: Everyday Glamour & the Art of British Ready-to-Wear marks the 80th anniversary of a brand that once dressed royalty, graced the rails of Harrods and Selfridges and brought coutureinspired glamour to women across Britain. 96 WEDDING SEASON This season’s weddings are all about personality, authenticity and unforgettable guest experiences. We look at what’s trending this season and showcase some amazing venues for the big day. 120

T HE TICKET TO SUCCESS Built in Preston and grown in Lancashire, Skiddle has spent 25 years helping millions discover live experiences while proving that regional businesses can achieve national success. We chat to co-founder Richard Dyer about the success of the business.

130

COURSE SET FOR HOSPITALITY A Hospitality runs in Oscar Rowley’s blood, but his career journey has taken him far beyond the family business. From serving royalty aboard luxury superyachts to returning home to lead Lytham’s Le-Rôti, his story is defined by ambition, adventure and a determination to succeed.

Photography: Lancashire Post

REGULARS 10 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 50 FASHION 58 HEALTH & BEAUTY 76 LIFESTYLE 106 EDUCATION 116 BUSINESS 124 MOTORS 128 SPORT 130 FOOD & DRINK

138 ARTS & CULTURE 144 PROPERTY

130

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LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Ali Gudgeon Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich, Gill Prosser and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Photography: Peter Austin, Anthony P Driver, Robin Lyndon, Kirsten Platt, Michael Porter Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Emma Brereton, Steve Garrill, Katie Hammond, Kate Hyde, Lynn Scholes, Keli Thompson, Sarah Ulyatt, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley, Tedd Walmsley, Jan Woolley. Live Magazines Limited Office 9, The Old Bakery Green Street Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 319 465 info@live-magazines.co.uk www.live-magazines.co.uk LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Barton, Bretherton, Broughton, Buckshaw Village, Cottam, Croston, Eaves, Elswick, Garstang, Great Eccleston, Freckleton, Fulwood, Hutton, Kirkham, Little Eccleston, Longton, Lytham, Much Hoole, New Longton, Newton with Scales, Penwortham, Warton, Wesham, Whittle-le-Woods and Wrea Green. Live Magazines Limited cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts or photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Live Magazines Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors. We reserve the right to publish and credit any letters. All rights reserved. An annual subscription is available at £17.50, to cover postage and packaging. For details of subscriptions please email subscriptions@live-magazines.co.uk. For advertising please contact us on 01772 319 465. PEFC Certified This magazine is printed on paper from sustainably managed forests PEFC/16-33-775

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As the leaves begin to turn and autumn settles, this issue of Live Preston & Fylde arrives at a time of significant change and exciting new beginnings. This season, we’re celebrating a remarkable Preston success story that helped shape British fashion. Eighty years after the launch of Horrockses Fashions, the highly anticipated Horrockses Fashions: 80 Years of an Iconic British Brand exhibition at The Harris shines a spotlight on the label that brought elegance and glamour to everyday wardrobes, dressed royalty and earned its place in some of the country’s most prestigious department stores. We chat to Scott Schiavone, looking back at the rise of this pioneering local brand and exploring why its influence on fashion and Preston’s heritage continues to resonate today. We also meet Lytham entrepreneur Oscar Rowley, owner of Le-Rôti - the award-winning artisan takeaway and deli in Lytham - whose remarkable journey from the world of luxury superyachts to building a successful hospitality business closer to home demonstrates the ambition and innovation thriving across the Fylde Coast. Alongside these features, we’ve packed this issue with food and drink, lifestyle and fashion, education, business and community news, autumn home and garden inspiration, plus a few Halloween treats for good measure. So as the nights draw in, take a moment to relax and enjoy the latest edition of Live Preston & Fylde. We hope you enjoy the read. Ali Gudgeon Editor

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

The

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 134

Dales THE BEST OF HARROGATE, ILKLEY & THE YORKSHIRE DALES

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING

I S S U E 11

I S S U E 16 4

FROM COTTON TO COUTURE CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF HORROCKSES THE SUMMER EDIT PICNICS, PLANTS AND PERFECT DAYS ITALIAN ROOTS, LANCASHIRE SPIRIT MARCELLA’S LIMONCELLO FLOWER POWER CHORLEY FLOWER SHOW BUSINESS HOUR EMMA BOOTH TALKS FAMILY VALUES

FALL INTO AUTUMN A CRISP NEW SEASON

AUTUMN SPLENDOUR COUNTRY COLOURS TOUR DE FRANCE INTERNATIONAL COMMENTATOR EXCITING RACE DAY CHALLENGE VET’S CHARITY ENDEAVOUR THE ART OF LIFE SOCIETY BRINGS JOY & FRIENDSHIP

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY FOR HISTORIC RAILWAY LINE

SEEING THE SEASONS

FROM INTERNATIONAL FASHION TO THE DALES

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Ribble Valley and Live The Dales

WALKING, WELLBEING AND WILD SWIMMING

RECONNECT WITH NATURE AT NEW FESTIVAL

WOOLLY WONDERFUL

SKIPTON CELEBRATES KNITTING, YARN AND CRAFTS

FROM SUPERYACHTS TO SUCCESS LYTHAM ENTREPRENEUR NAVIGATES HOSPITALITY

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 135

Stonyhurst: Your route to remarkable Remarkable

Joseph Joseph win 14 Red Dot Awards since 2008

Joseph Joseph win the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Cambridge University (MA)

Product Designer (Dyson)

“

Co-Founder (Joseph Joseph)

Our proudest achievement since leaving Stonyhurst has been building Joseph Joseph, designing and developing our own products. Over 20 years, we’ve grown the business to employ over 250 staff and operate in 104 markets worldwide.

“

Richard Joseph

Loughborough University

Stonyhurst (Alumnus 1994)

Visit us to discover more stonyhurst.ac.uk/sixthform

SIXTH FORM Co-ed 16-18 | Boarding & Day | Jesuit, Catholic School

Photography: Lancashire Post

EIGHTY YEARS OF STYLE AND INNOVATION Before fast fashion, there was Horrockses. This autumn, The Harris celebrates the Prestonborn label that dressed royalty and reinvented British readyto-wear fashion

pening on 19th September and running until 31st January 2027, Horrockses Fashions: Everyday Glamour & the Art of British Ready-to-Wear marks the 80th anniversary of a brand that once dressed royalty, graced the rails of Harrods and Selfridges and brought couture-inspired glamour to women across Britain. For fashion lovers and anyone interested

in Preston’s industrial heritage, it’s a chance to rediscover a local success story with global influence.

MORE THAN 100 DRESSES ARE HELD IN ITS COLLECTION, WITH JUST OVER 60 GOING ON DISPLAY THIS AUTUMN FOLLOWING EXTENSIVE CONSERVATION WORK While many people may never have heard of Horrockses today, during the 1940s and 1950s it was one of Britain’s most influential fashion labels. The company grew out of Horrockses, Crewdson & Co., the Preston-based cotton manufacturer, which launched a ready-to-wear fashion

line in 1946. Combining Lancashire-made fabrics with designs inspired by Paris couture and London’s fashion scene, the label quickly built a reputation for elegance, quality and style. A Horrockses dress was not an everyday purchase. These were pieces women saved for, buying them for weddings, honeymoons and life’s milestone occasions. The brand’s reputation soared when Princess Elizabeth selected a number of Horrockses dresses for a Commonwealth tour. By the time she wore them in 1953, she had become Queen Elizabeth II, creating enormous publicity for the label. Customers were then able to buy the same designs worn by the new monarch. Princess Margaret and the Duchess of Kent also became loyal customers.

localfocus Few institutions are better placed to tell this story than The Harris, which holds the largest museum collection of Horrockses garments in the UK. More than 100 dresses are held in its collection, with just over 60 going on display this autumn following extensive conservation work. The exhibition will also feature loans from Manchester Art Gallery, Fashion Museum Bath and Brighton Museum. Among the most fascinating stories is that of Maryse Addison, once considered one of the best-dressed women in London. Her brother worked for Horrockses and regularly supplied her with sample garments, allowing her to build an extraordinary wardrobe. Before her death, Addison donated dresses to museums around the country and several pieces from her collection will be reunited in Preston for the exhibition.

But this is far more than a display of beautiful dresses. Alongside the garments will be original sample sheets, fabric swatches, design books, correspondence, fashion show invitations and archive material revealing how the company operated. “We wanted to give an idea not just of the dresses themselves, but how the company worked,” says curator Scott Schiavone. “We’ve got meeting minutes, correspondence and fashion show guest lists that show the level of prestige Horrockses managed to attain.” The exhibition focuses on the period from 1946 to 1959, widely regarded as the brand’s golden age, and explores the connection between London’s fashion world and Lancashire’s manufacturing expertise. “It’s not just about Preston,” says Schiavone. “It’s about British fashion as well. The dresses were designed in London, but everything was made here in the North West. The cotton

localfocus

was woven and printed in Preston, and the garments were then produced in mills across the region. It links both places together.” One of the most striking elements of the exhibition will be the specially created Horrockses Garden, an immersive installation inspired by the brand’s celebrated floral prints. Created with local paper artist Lisa Howard, it will feature floral displays and sculptural paper flowers surrounding carefully curated groups of dresses.

THE DRESSES WERE DESIGNED IN LONDON, BUT EVERYTHING WAS MADE HERE IN THE NORTH WEST Flowers became a signature motif for Horrockses, whose designers worked with artists to create distinctive textiles that transformed everyday dresses into wearable works of art. “Florals became synonymous with Horrockses,” says Schiavone. “They produced two collections a year with around 160 dresses in each collection and the textile designers created hundreds more patterns beyond that. We wanted visitors to experience that creativity in a really immersive way.” Coinciding with the exhibition is the

publication of Everyday Glamour: Horrockses Fashions from Royalty to Ready-to-Wear, the first major new book on the brand in more than a decade. Published by Scala and edited by Schiavone, it brings together leading historians exploring Horrockses’ connections to royalty, couture, textiles and British visual culture. The Harris will have exclusive sales rights for the hardback during the exhibition’s first month before it receives wider international release. Visitors will also find a range of Horrockses-inspired merchandise featuring

patterns drawn from the company’s archive. Eighty years after the launch of Horrockses Fashions, The Harris is bringing the story home. More than a fashion exhibition, it celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship and ambition that helped turn a Preston cotton company into one of Britain’s most influential style brands. n The exhibition will run at The Harris from 19th September – 31st January 2027. Free admission. theharris.org.uk

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CREATIVE LANDSCAPES Photography: Kirsten Platt

Experienced landscape designer Richard Worth has joined Bannister Hall, bringing creativity, expertise and innovation to homeowners across the Ribble Valley

here is something wonderfully fitting about Richard Worth’s career journey. A film studies graduate, who switched direction to become an award-winning garden designer, Richard has followed a path that has been anything but conventional. Now, having joined Bannister Hall last month, his experience is being put to work as the company’s new design co-ordinator, helping homeowners turn their ideas into beautifully considered outdoor spaces.

of the industry while gaining experience in the creative art of designing and delivering prestigious projects.

“I shared a unit with a friend, who was a vertical garden specialist while I was a designer and landscaper,” he says.

He subsequently launched his own landscaping business, designing and building gardens across the capital. His reputation grew, eventually leading to a highly successful specialism – creating award-winning beer gardens and outdoor spaces for brewing giant Heineken, who earmarked Richard as their designer of choice.

Four years ago, Richard and his family made the decision to move north. He began working for a prestigious Cheshire landscape business while living in Manchester, but Bannister Hall had already begun to attract his attention.

IT’S A SEAMLESS, JOYFUL PROCESS DESIGNED TO TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF LANDSCAPING AND REPLACE IT WITH EXCITEMENT AND CONFIDENCE

“My career to date has grown very organically,” explains Richard.

“It was very niche, but it absolutely took off,” recalls Richard, whose career continued to evolve.

After university, Richard spent some time working as a young labourer for a landscaping business in Hackney, London. It was here that he learned the practical side

As a designer working in London and with a growing family, Richard joined forces with other creatives to develop a shipping container yard in Hackney.

“With my work I had heard about Bannister Hall and to be fair, I did a bit of exploration and realised just how much they had developed the plant growing and the design and landscape side of the business. It is amazing!” For Richard, one of the biggest attractions is the sheer breadth of plants and landscaping materials available on site. “Having all these wonderful home-grown plants and landscaping materials that are tangible, gives so much freedom to me as a designer,” he says. That combination of creativity, horticultural expertise and physical products is central to Bannister Hall’s expanding design proposition. While Bannister Hall has been established for many years, the company’s state-of-the-art Landscaping Design Centre

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opened its doors last year, bringing together the comprehensive materials showroom and extensive outdoor plant nursery with an immersive virtual reality 3D garden design service.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Bannister Hall is home to thousands of plant species, from instant hedging and ornamental trees to shrubs and fruit trees. Homeowners can also explore natural stone and porcelain paving, decking, sleepers, pergolas, decorative aggregates, water features, lighting and much more.

THE VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE IS FABULOUS FOR US AS DESIGNERS BUT EVEN BETTER FOR OUR CLIENTS WHO CAN SEE THEIR NEW GARDEN COME TO LIFE Working in the Design Centre, Richard is particularly enthusiastic about the technology available to landscape designers: “The VR (virtual reality) experience is fabulous for us as designers but even better for our clients who can see their new garden come to life. It streamlines the design process making it so easy.” As design co-ordinator, Richard works closely with clients, project managers and contractors, helping ensure the creative vision remains at the heart of every project from initial concept through to completion. For Bannister Hall CEO Jon C Hollywood LLB (Hons), that personal approach is fundamental to the company’s philosophy: “The ethos is simple, to provide homeowners with true peace of mind. This isn’t about a mere transaction – it’s about creating a trusted partnership.” The journey begins with a professional home site visit, followed by a visit to the Design Centre where clients can explore materials, discuss ideas and experience

their proposed garden through immersive 3D virtual reality. “It’s a seamless, joyful process designed to take the stress out of landscaping and replace it with excitement and confidence,” says Jon. It is a proposition that reflects Bannister Hall’s evolution over more than 25 years. From its roots as a one-stop landscaping supplies centre, the business now combines building materials, paving, decking, timber, decorative aggregates, topsoil, turf and plants with specialist horticultural and design expertise. As Jon explains: “Our point of difference isn’t simply selling everything a landscaping project requires but providing tailored creative solutions and expert horticulturalist advice for any garden or landscaping project irrespective of scale.” For homeowners, the result is a genuinely joined-up service and with designer Richard

Worth now part of the team, Bannister Hall has added another layer of creative experience to an already comprehensive service. n

Bannister Hall Ltd Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087 sales@bannisterhall.co.uk bannisterhall.com Business Hours Open Monday – Friday 7.00am to 5.00pm Free on-site parking everythingplants.co.uk

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Rather than filling a room with brand-new furniture, consider mixing treasured family heirlooms or carefully chosen vintage finds alongside modern pieces. This layered approach creates a home with personality and tells a story that’s uniquely yours. Nature continues to influence interior design too, encouraging us to bring the outdoors inside. Organic materials such as marble and natural stone accessories introduce beautiful texture, while handmade ceramics

WARMTH, TEXTURE AND A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA When the countryside begins to glow with autumn colour, our home naturally becomes a place of comfort and retreat

utumn interior trends are set to reflect a desire for warmth, embracing rich, grounding tones, tactile textures and a welcome nod to 1970s-inspired design. Leading the way is a shift away from the cool greys that have dominated our homes for years. Instead, chocolate and cocoa browns are taking centre stage, creating spaces that feel cosy, sophisticated and effortlessly inviting. Layer these deeper

shades with spiced earth tones such as burnt orange, cinnamon, rust and soft sage green to capture the essence of the season while maintaining a timeless appeal.

NATURE CONTINUES TO INFLUENCE INTERIOR DESIGN TOO, ENCOURAGING US TO BRING THE OUTDOORS INSIDE Texture is equally important this season. The secret to creating an inviting room lies in combining different fabrics and finishes that encourage you to slow down and relax. Think chunky wool throws draped over a favourite armchair, sumptuous velvet cushions adding richness to a sofa and soft bouclé upholstery bringing warmth and depth to seating. These tactile elements instantly make a room feel more welcoming without the need for a complete redesign. There’s also a growing appreciation for vintage style, with interiors taking inspiration from the 1960s and 70s. Curved furniture, warm mid-century woods and statement burl wood pieces are making a strong comeback, adding character and craftsmanship to contemporary homes.

add an artisanal touch. Simple arrangements of dried eucalyptus, pampas grass or seasonal foliage provide effortless decoration that lasts throughout the season and complements the earthy colour palette perfectly.

The beauty of this autumn’s trends is their versatility. Whether you introduce a handful of velvet cushions, invest in a statement chocolate-brown armchair or refresh your styling with natural materials and vintage accessories, each addition contributes to a home that feels warm, welcoming and wonderfully lived in. Ultimately, this season is all about creating interiors that offer comfort, celebrate craftsmanship and invite us to embrace slower, more relaxed living as autumn settles in. n

TILE SHOWROOM AND TRADE COUNTER ADDRESS Collins White Unit 1 Hawthorn Business Park Lincoln Way Clitheroe BB7 1QD BATHROOM - LIVING - OUTDOOR Open: Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17:00 Saturday 08:30 - 14:00 jody@collinswhite.co.uk 01200 538973 www.collinswhite.co.uk

homesinsideout

AUTUMN READY! Mowerpower owner David Webster shares his expertise on all things gardening equipment to make sure your outdoor space is ready for the upcoming season, writes Gail Bailey

s the sun begins to set on the fabulous summer we’ve enjoyed this year, thoughts begin to turn to making sure our garden spaces are ready for the arrival of autumn. Mowerpower is a long-established garden equipment retailer, providing sales, maintenance and repairs along with expert advice and exceptional customer care. David Webster explains: “Founded by my father and grandfather in 1948, we’ve grown from an ironmongers into one of the North West’s leading suppliers of professional and domestic arboriculture and ground maintenance equipment.” Mowerpower is an approved servicing agent for many of the industry’s top manufacturers and has recently become

an authorised dealer for Etesia mowers – leaders in the industry and renowned for their quality, design and innovation.

AUTUMN IS ALL ABOUT TIDYING UP. THINK ABOUT YOUR FINAL MOW OF THE SEASON, CLEARING FALLEN LEAVES, PRUNING SHRUBS AND CUTTING BACK BRANCHES Gardening technology has come a long way since Mowerpower first opened its doors, with robotic mowers now proving increasingly popular. They are fully automatic, weather resistant, energy efficient, have accurate navigation and quiet operation.

With options suitable for all lawn sizes robotic mowers provide a clean, even finish by mowing little and often, promoting healthier grass growth without the need for clippings collection. “We stock a full range of robotic mowers from Segway, STIHL and Sunseeker, including the latest wire-free models,” says David. “They certainly make mowing the lawn easier!” Alongside its extensive range of mowers, Mowerpower stocks everything you need to keep your garden in shape, including strimmers, garden vacs, shredders, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, scarifiers, hand tools and much more. So as autumn approaches, it’s time to prepare your garden for winter and give yourself a head start for spring: “Autumn is all about tidying up,” says David. “Think about your final mow of the season, clearing fallen leaves, pruning shrubs and cutting back branches. It’s also the ideal time to make sure your chainsaw is in good working order before tackling any larger jobs and to stock up your wood store for the colder months. Spending time in the garden now will keep it looking neat throughout winter – making life much easier when spring arrives.”

Before storing your equipment away for winter, make sure it’s serviced and in top condition. Maintenance now means it’ll be ready to perform as soon as the growing season begins again. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or a keen home gardener, if you have a postage stamp lawn or several acres to maintain, Mowerpower has the equipment, expertise and maintenance support to help keep your garden looking its best. n

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llie’s journey into kitchen design began when she bought her own kitchen. The process sparked something unexpected. “I loved customising it, optimising the layout and making the most out of the space,” she explains. “It made me realise how transformative a well-designed kitchen can be and I wanted to help other people experience that.” She joined Kutchenhaus in 2025 and has spent the last five years specialising in kitchen design, developing a reputation for her thoughtful approach, technical knowledge and ability to bring even the most challenging spaces to life.

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“My confidence has grown massively,” she says. “I’m able to suggest ideas, challenge budgets in the right way and help customers invest where it really matters. Every kitchen should feel unique to the person living in it.”

DESIGNING AROUND REAL LIVES

Ellie’s process begins with understanding how customers want to use their space. “Every customer has an individual experience,” she says. “We start with their wish list, their lifestyle, priorities. Which family members will use the space? Do they have pets? Will they want to host a lot? What are their cooking habits? The kitchen begins to build itself around these initial conversations.” Functionality is always the foundation, but Ellie believes that’s where creativity thrives.

homesinsideout

Some of her most rewarding projects have been the smaller ones, where unusual layouts or tight footprints demand clever thinking. “Those projects teach you the most,” she says. “You have to find quirky solutions and make every inch work hard. It’s incredibly satisfying.”

A DESIGNER WHO JOINS THE WHOLE JOURNEY

What sets Kutchenhaus apart is the depth of involvement throughout the renovation. Ellie doesn’t just design the kitchen – she becomes part of the entire process. “I’m knowledgeable about the building side too,” she explains. “Electrics, plastering, plumbing – I advise customers on when we need to liaise with builders and how everything fits together. I essentially insert myself into the whole renovation.”

WE HAVE REPEAT CLIENTS, REFERRALS AND EVEN PEOPLE WHO GET IN TOUCH ALMOST A DECADE LATER BECAUSE THEY REMEMBER HOW APPROACHABLE WE ARE This holistic approach means customers feel supported from start to finish. “We take the whole project into consideration, not just the kitchen. From flooring to gas utilities, lighting and decor – we understand the entire space and how it needs to work.”

BOLD TRENDS AND BEAUTIFUL MATERIALS

Ellie has seen a shift in design trends over recent years. “Clients are blending traditional and modern looks,” she says. “They want the warmth of a classic kitchen but with modern functionality and family-friendly layouts.” Colour confidence is also growing. “Customers are being bolder with dark tones, earthy colours, wood, brass, copper, bronze. Natural materials like stone and timber are becoming really popular again. It’s exciting to design with that level of freedom.” And when it comes to appliances, Ellie guides customers carefully. “We advise on everything from white goods, cooking equipment, extraction and gadgets and help clients to avoid overspecifying. I take the time to explain pricing clearly so customers can justify their spend where it really matters.”

THE KUTCHENHAUS EXPERIENCE

For Ellie, the showroom environment is key. “The Kutchenhaus stores are amazing places to design from,” she says. “The displays are

beautiful, the products are inspiring and customers can visualise their new space from the moment they walk in. There’s always a cup

of tea and no one is ever rushed. Without the store, I couldn’t do the job.” This welcoming atmosphere has built long-lasting relationships. “We spend time getting to know our customers,” Ellie says. “We have repeat clients, referrals and even people who get in touch almost a decade later because they remember how approachable we are.”

A KITCHEN THAT TRANSFORMS A HOME For Ellie, designing a kitchen is about far more than aesthetics. “A kitchen is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make,” she says. “It’s the busiest place in the house and can transform an entire home. Being part of that journey and helping someone visualise it, refine it and finally see it come together, is the best part of my job.” n

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homesinsideout that his aim was: “To disturb and extend consciousness in the mind of the viewer.” Those words remain as relevant today as when they were first written, for Major never painted merely to decorate a room. His works challenge, provoke and reward repeated viewing. Although a contemporary and friend of L S Lowry, Major forged an entirely individual path. Lowry is reported to have admired Major enormously, believing that had he embraced the London art market his reputation might have eclipsed his own. Instead, Major chose artistic integrity over commercial success, creating an extraordinary body of work that remained largely unseen during his lifetime.

ENDURING LEGACY A collection of powerful, previously unseen Theodore Major paintings are set to go on sale at Hepplestone Fine Art this September

his September, Hepplestone Fine Art in Lancashire will unveil an extraordinary exhibition of previously unseen paintings by one of Britain’s most fiercely independent and compelling 20th century artists, Theodore Major (1908-1999). Drawn from works that remained hidden from public view for decades, the exhibition offers collectors and art enthusiasts a rare opportunity to discover the remarkable breadth and originality of an artist increasingly recognised as one of the great voices of Northern British art. Born in Wigan and largely self-taught, Major rejected the commercial art world throughout much of his career, believing that paintings should be created for ordinary people rather than for wealthy collectors. Following his death, thousands of works were discovered in his Appley Bridge home, many of which had never been exhibited publicly. Today, these paintings are finally receiving the recognition they deserve. Major’s reputation has continued to grow thanks to the extraordinary quality and diversity of his work. While he is perhaps

best known for his powerful depictions of Lancashire’s mills, factories and industrial landscapes, his artistic vision extended far beyond the northern skyline. Visitors to the exhibition will encounter expressive still life paintings, atmospheric seascapes, intimate portraits, vibrant nudes and deeply symbolic works inspired by war, politics and the human condition. Each subject reflects an artist determined to explore ideas rather than simply record appearances. Art critic and novelist John Berger famously described Major’s paintings as being: “Among the best English paintings of our time,” while the artist himself declared

LOWRY IS REPORTED TO HAVE ADMIRED MAJOR ENORMOUSLY, BELIEVING THAT HAD HE EMBRACED THE LONDON ART MARKET, HIS REPUTATION MIGHT HAVE ECLIPSED HIS OWN This landmark exhibition at Hepplestone Fine Art represents a unique opportunity to experience these remarkable paintings in person. Rich in emotion, technical brilliance and social commentary, Theodore Major’s work stands today not simply as a record of northern England, but as the enduring legacy of an artist whose uncompromising vision continues to resonate with modern audiences. n

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homesinsideout requires minimal preparation and creates a beautifully soft, matt finish. Neutral shades such as sage green, warm cream, soft grey or muted blue suit both traditional and contemporary interiors, while bolder colours can make a striking statement. Finishing with furniture wax or a clear protective lacquer helps preserve the new look for years to come. Repurposing furniture also offers endless creative possibilities. An old ladder can become a stylish blanket rack, vintage suitcases can be stacked to form an unusual bedside table and an unused dresser can be transformed into a drinks cabinet or kitchen storage unit. Wooden crates can become shelving, while an antique sewing machine base can become a bespoke hallway console table. These imaginative updates add personality and create a unique piece of furniture for your home. Restoring furniture is about more than appearance. It reduces waste, supports

TIMELESS REVIVAL Reclaiming old furniture is one of the most rewarding ways to refresh your home while embracing sustainable living

ather than replacing worn or outdated interiors pieces, restoring, repainting and repurposing furniture allows you to create unique items filled with character and history. Whether it’s a vintage chest of drawers, a weathered dining table or a forgotten armchair, every piece has the potential for a new lease of life. The first step in any restoration project is to assess the condition of the furniture. Solid wood pieces are often well worth saving,

even if they appear scratched, faded or chipped. A gentle clean with sugar soap or a specialist wood cleaner removes years of dirt and polish, revealing the true beauty beneath. Loose joints can usually be repaired with wood glue, while small dents and holes can be filled before sanding the surface smooth.

RESTORING FURNITURE IS ABOUT MORE THAN APPEARANCE. IT REDUCES WASTE AND SUPPORTS ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS LIVING Painting is one of the easiest ways to transform old furniture. Chalk paint has become a popular choice because it

environmentally conscious living and often proves far more economical than buying new pieces. Many older items were originally crafted from high-quality hardwoods that are difficult to find in modern mass-produced furniture, making them particularly valuable once restored. The beauty of reclaimed furniture lies in its imperfections. Gentle signs of age, original handles or visible wood grain all contribute to a piece’s individual charm. Rather than striving for perfection, celebrate these unique features as part of the furniture’s story. With a little patience, creativity and care, forgotten furniture can become the standout feature of any room. Reclaiming, restoring, repainting and repurposing not only creates beautiful interiors but also preserves craftsmanship and encourages a more thoughtful approach to decorating the home. n

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Create a kitchen designed around the way you live. From your first consultation to final installation, Kutchenhaus delivers a seamless, personal service that transforms ideas into beautifully functional spaces. Explore an extensive range of styles, finishes and layouts, all crafted with precision German engineering and built to last. Their expert designers listen carefully, using advanced visual technology to bring your vision to life before work begins. With fully interactive showrooms, tailored storage solutions and a dedicated white-glove approach, every detail is considered — from lighting and worktops to practical flow. Backed by industry expertise and fast lead times, Kutchenhaus offers more than kitchens; they create inspiring spaces for cooking, gathering and making memories, designed perfectly for your home and lifestyle.

• Bespoke kitchen design tailored to lifestyle and space • Premium German-engineered, rigid-built kitchens • Wide choice of styles: modern handleless, traditional, Shaker, painted (remove) and laminate finishes • Interactive showrooms in Preston and Lytham with fully working displays • Expert guidance from experienced specialists including Chris Davies and Darren Worthington • Industry leading CAD visualisation showing realistic layouts and features in 3D • Flooring, lighting, worktops & interior solutions available • Face-to-face consultation and home survey process

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homesinsideout Inside the home, continue the Halloween theme – dress your dining table with a black or orange tablecloth, decorative pumpkins and autumn foliage. Candles, lanterns, and fairy lights help create a cosy ambience while maintaining the spooky mood. Replace everyday cushions with Halloweenthemed designs featuring bats, pumpkins or ghosts and add cosy throws in autumn colours such as burnt orange, deep red and mustard yellow. If you’re hosting a Halloween party, create themed areas throughout your home. A cauldron filled with sweets makes an eye-catching centrepiece, while spooky signs and sound effects add to the atmosphere. Consider serving treats on

SPOOKY INTERIORS Halloween has become one of the most exciting times of the year in the UK, with families, neighbours and communities embracing spooky decorations

hether you’re planning a haunted house, welcoming trick-or-treaters or simply getting into the Halloween spirit, decorating your home can be both creative and fun. Start with your home’s exterior as this creates the first impression for visitors. Hang a seasonal wreath featuring pumpkins, autumn leaves or ribbons on your front door. Add carved pumpkins or realistic pumpkin lanterns along the doorstep and place LED candles inside for a warm, flickering glow. String orange, purple or white lights around your porch or windows to create an inviting yet eerie atmosphere. Cobwebs are a Halloween classic and can instantly transform fences, bushes and

doorways. Stretch artificial spider webs across railings and corners, then add plastic spiders for extra effect. Skeletons, witches, ghosts and black cats are popular decorations that can be displayed in the garden or peeking through windows to surprise passers-by.

DECORATING YOUR HOME FOR HALLOWEEN IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON AND BRING SMILES TO FAMILY, FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS themed platters and decorating drinks with novelty stirrers. For families with young children, focus on fun rather than frightening – friendly pumpkins, smiling ghosts and colourful bunting can make the home festive without being too scary. Craft projects such as homemade paper bats, painted pumpkins or decorated jars are enjoyable activities that children can help create. Remember to prioritise safety when decorating. Use battery-operated candles, ensure pathways remain clear for trickor-treaters and secure outdoor decorations against autumn winds. Decorating your home for Halloween is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and bring smiles to family, friends and neighbours. With a mix of traditional decorations, creative ideas and a little imagination, you can transform your home into a delightfully spooky space that everyone will enjoy. n

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These opportunities are ideally suited to distributors working independently across two or three areas. To do this you’ll need to be physically fit, have access to your own transport and have somewhere to store the magazines.

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THE SUMMER EDIT PICNICS, PLANTS AND PERFECT DAYS ITALIAN ROOTS, LANCASHIRE SPIRIT MARCELLA’S LIMONCELLO FLOWER POWER CHORLEY FLOWER SHOW BUSINESS HOUR EMMA BOOTH TALKS FAMILY VALUES

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PEOPLE SHAPING PRESTON ONES TO WATCH PAT AND CHAT THE POWER OF HORSES MONET MASTERPIECE HISTORIC VISIT FOR BLACKPOOL NEW ERA FOR CRICKET FARINGTON FACILITY COMPLETE

AUTUMN Harlech Rustic Oak Flooring £POA Rooted in nature with rich golden tones and intriguing details which bring a warming, traditional feel to a room. The Flooring Centre Club Court Club Street Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6FN 01772 627309 theflooringcentrenw.co.uk

ACCENTS Left: Award-winning wireless olive grey touch dimming cocktail table lamp £190 James Kok Lighting 13 Cable Court Pittman Way Fulwood Preston PR2 9YW 01772 977677 jameskoklighting.co.uk Right: Armchair reupholstered in Acanthus 01, Teal £POA Plumbs Showroom Old Lancaster Lane Preston PR1 7PZ 01772 838363 plumbs.co.uk

Left: Thick velvet, double sided cushion with natural fringe in rust (55x55) RRP £42, Spotty jacquard piped cushion, in russet animal print (50x50) RRP £40, Broken stripe jacquard cushion in zig zag russets (50x50) RRP £40, Soft bubble faux rabbit throw in brandy (140x200) RRP £85. PAD Contemporary Living Poulton Business Park 4 Millenium Court Furness Drive Poulton le Fylde FY6 8JS 01253 893334 padcl.co.uk Right: Exquisite window shutters that seamlessly blend style, functionality, and lasting charm, meticulously crafted to elevate your spaces, bringing a touch of sophistication and practicality to homes £POA James Albert 278 Fylde Road Preston PR2 2NJ 01772 823311 jamesalbert.co.uk

homesinsideout creep into your garden, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to let it all go to seed – and if there’s one job to be done this month it’s to divide perennials such as achilleas, hardy geraniums and hostas to keep the growth fresh and replant in borders. Cut back old flower stems before digging and lifting the root clump with a spade, then split it by tipping it on its side and cutting through with the spade or an old knife before pulling into smaller pieces. Plant into weed free ground, keeping the crown at soil level while firming in. Soak the clump and ground around it with water to encourage rooting.

ASTERS COME IN BLUE, PURPLE, RED, PINK AND WHITE EACH WITH A YELLOW CENTRE AND ARE EASY PLANTS FOR BEGINNERS TO TRY OUT IN THE GARDEN

KEEPING COLOUR IN THE GARDEN The smell of autumn will soon be in the air so it’s time to sit down in a quiet corner of your garden, patio or outside space and reflect on the things that have worked and those that haven’t

eptember is a great planning and planting month so start ordering those new roses, shrubs, bulbs and other plants that you need. Autumn is really the best time for planting as the soil is still warm and the seasonal rains will get plants established before winter sets in. Keeping colour in borders for as long as possible is also at the top of the ‘to do’ list for September, so you may like to consider incorporating late summer or autumn flowering plants such Asters. Also known as the Michaelmas daisy as it flowers around the time of Michaelmas Day on the 29th September, the Aster has long lasting bloom appeal which makes it a great cut flower. Asters come in blue, purple, red, pink and white each with a yellow centre and are easy plants for beginners to try out in the garden. They thrive in drained, fertile soil that retains moisture and prefer full sun or partial shade.

Other options for autumn colour are favourites such as the Japanese anemone – tall and bold with their simple flowers in shades from pink to white, Sedum – with foliage colours from green to grey and deep

For fruit and veg growers, now is the time to harvest top fruit such as apples and pears. The last of the plums and autumn-fruiting raspberries can also be picked now. Continue to sow vegetables for overwintering, to mature next spring, such as turnips, spinach, winter lettuce and oriental vegetables along with overwintering onion sets. n

SEPTEMBER TO-DO LIST Some of the other garden jobs for September suggested by the RHS are: • Collect and sow seed from perennials and hardy annuals • Divide herbaceous perennials • S take tall late-flowering perennials, such as Asters, for added support • Dig up remaining potatoes before slug damage spoils them • Net ponds before leaf fall gets underway • Keep up with watering of new plants, using rain or grey water if possible • Start to reduce the frequency of houseplant watering

purple and flowers in eye-catching white, pink and red or the great all round performer Verbena bonariensis valued for its tall branching stems topped with clusters of small purple flowers. September is when autumn begins to

• Clean out cold frames and greenhouses so they are ready for autumn use • Cover leafy vegetable crops with bird-proof netting • Plant spring flowering bulbs

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fashion forward, take inspiration from popular runway trends. Metallic fabrics, sheer layers and bold monochrome styling can easily be adapted for Halloween. A silver co-ord could become a futuristic alien ensemble with the addition of dramatic makeup, while an all-red outfit instantly creates a striking devil-inspired look without requiring a full costume. The appeal of Halloween fashion lies in its versatility. Many partygoers are moving away from disposable fancy dress and choosing pieces they can wear again. A tailored cape, leather trousers or statement boots can form part of a Halloween outfit and remain wardrobe staples long after October ends. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important and reworking existing items often results in more original and stylish outfits. For those who enjoy a touch of glamour, old Hollywood remains a rich source of inspiration. A sleek black gown, elbowlength gloves and vintage curls can create a timeless vampire aesthetic. Meanwhile, sparkling embellishments and dramatic eye

HALLOWEEN FASHION Dark romance, gothic glamour and statement accessories are transforming Halloween dressing into a fashion moment this autumn

alloween has evolved far beyond plastic masks and last-minute fancy dress. Today, it offers the perfect excuse to experiment with fashion, embrace a little drama and showcase your creativity. Whether you’re heading to a glamorous Halloween soirée, a casual house party or a themed night out, this year’s Halloween fashion is all about striking the balance between spooky and stylish. One of the biggest trends is simple gothic glamour. Think black lace, velvet tailoring, corset details and dramatic silhouettes that feel sophisticated rather than costume-like. A floor-length black dress paired with chunky boots and dark accessories can channel modern witch vibes without looking overdone. For men, a velvet blazer, dark shirt and statement jewellery can create an effortlessly mysterious look. If you’re looking for something fashion-

ONE OF THE BIGGEST TRENDS IS SIMPLE GOTHIC GLAMOUR. THINK BLACK LACE, VELVET TAILORING, CORSET DETAILS AND DRAMATIC SILHOUETTES

makeup can transform a simple cocktail dress into a celestial-inspired costume fit for any Halloween celebration. Couples and group costumes continue to be popular, but fashion-conscious partygoers are taking a more coordinated approach. Rather than identical costumes, consider choosing a shared colour palette or theme. Gothic romance, Victorian-inspired styling or modern fantasy looks can create impact while allowing individual personalities to shine through. Accessories are often what make a Halloween outfit memorable. Statement hats, embellished masks, dramatic jewellery and bold makeup can elevate even the simplest ensemble. This approach is ideal for anyone attending an event straight from work, as a few carefully chosen additions can instantly transform an everyday outfit into something party-ready. Ultimately, Halloween fashion should be fun. Whether you embrace full theatrical glamour or simply add a dark twist to your usual style, the best look is one that feels authentic and comfortable. This season, forget the predictable costume aisle and think of Halloween as an opportunity to experiment with fashion, confidence and a little bit of mystery. n

fashion coffee, or even a glass of fizz, every visitor is welcomed before being invited to browse the collections at their own pace. There is never any pressure – just honest advice, expert styling and space to enjoy and appreciate beautiful fashion.

jeans to stunning occasion wear from Saloni. The store also stocks the French lingerie collection for Empreinte – key pieces that can transform an outfit. The store showcases collections from MarcCain, Luisa Cerano, Herzen’s, Weekend Max Mara, Kinross, Vilagallo, Riani, Rosso 35 and many more, ensuring there’s something for every occasion. Beyond fashion the store also offers a beautiful collection of candles and the home fragrance range from Baobab. No visit would be complete without a mention to Barney, Michelle’s loyal companion and her biggest fan!

Michelle believes that exceptional service is only possible because of the incredible team behind her.

STYLE, LUXURY AND PERSONAL SERVICE… Celebrating over 21 years, michelle.b combines elegance and sophistication with genuine northern warmth to create an unforgettable shopping experience

his year marks an incredible milestone as michelle.b celebrates 21 years of business, offering luxury ladies’ designer fashion from the heart of the beautiful village of Barrowford. Twenty two years ago, Michelle Berkins and her husband, Kevin, purchased the property with a vision of creating something truly special. Every detail of the store was thoughtfully designed by Michelle herself, transforming the building into the elegant boutique it is today. From the striking open staircase to the spacious luxury fitting rooms, the aim was simple – to create a shopping experience that combines sophistication with

genuine northern warmth. From the moment customers walk through the door, they’re made to feel at home. Whether it’s a cup of tea, freshly brewed

Store Manager Sophie leads a talented group of stylists, including Marina, who has been with the business since it opened and is a familiar face modelling on the store’s social media. Alongside Marina are Lea, Jo and Sally, with special guest appearances from Jane, all bringing their own expertise, personality and passion for fashion to every customer experience. Behind the scenes michelle.b has a first-class alteration service by Linda and Denise, ensuring everything fits perfectly. Michelle carefully curates each season’s collections with her customer’s lifestyles in mind, offering everything from the perfect pair of Paige

After 21 successful years, the store continues to evolve while staying true to the values it was built on – exceptional fashion, honest styling advice, personal service and creating an experience that keeps customers coming back time and time again. As the team at michelle.b celebrates this anniversary, one thing is certain – there is always something new to discover. Follow their journey and seek inspiration on social media. n

michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060 michelle@michelleb.co.uk michelleb.co.uk

SEE MORE. LOOK BETTER. FEEL CONFIDENT. The Spectacle Factory: where precision vision, personal style, quality and outstanding value come together

hen it comes to eye care, not all opticians are created equal.

The Spectacle Factory has redefined the modern eye care experience by combining advanced technology, expert optometry and a truly personalised approach to eyewear – all while offering outstanding quality and value across a wide range of budgets. From the moment clients enter the striking, contemporary store, it’s clear this is not an ordinary

opticians, but a destination for those who value clarity, confidence, quality and style.

clients report noticing visual subtleties they never realised they were missing.

At the heart of The Spectacle Factory is a significant investment in state-of-the-art technology. Eye examinations go far beyond the standard test. Using the revolutionary i.Profiler, the team maps the unique shape of each eye – even more individual than a fingerprint. This enables prescriptions up to 25 times more precise than conventional testing, delivering exceptional clarity, depth and detail. Many

Perfect vision however, is only part of the experience. The Spectacle Factory understands that eyewear is deeply personal – shaping both how we see the world and how the world sees us. As Brand Manager Robert Sands explains: “Our glasses are how we see the world, but they are also how the world sees us.” Using the advanced VisuFit 1000 system, each frame is carefully refined to optimise comfort,

accuracy, appearance and longterm value.

Rather than overwhelming clients with endless displays, The Spectacle Factory takes a considered, bespoke approach. Each consultation begins with understanding the individual – their lifestyle, profession, preferences and budget – before presenting a carefully curated selection of frames. What might otherwise feel daunting is transformed into a relaxed, enjoyable and confidence-boosting experience. The eyewear collections are among the most carefully curated in the region. The range balances design, durability and value, featuring respected global brands alongside

fashion

distinctive independent designers sourced from around the world. Collections showcase innovative materials, contemporary styling and a growing commitment to sustainability, including ecofriendly acetates and bio-based lenses – ensuring exceptional choice without compromise. Quality and craftsmanship underpin everything The Spectacle Factory offers. Many frames are handmade from premium materials such as lightweight acetate and titanium, often produced in Japan by master eyewear artisans. These are not mass-produced accessories, but beautifully crafted pieces of design, with detailing that rivals fine jewellery or luxury watchmaking, built to last and deliver genuine long-term value. Lens quality is equally important. Working with leading manufacturers, The Spectacle Factory provides advanced lens

solutions that support natural vision and modern lifestyles. Smart Life lenses are optimised for digital device use, delivering clarity and comfort throughout the day, while PhotoFusion technology allows lenses to transition seamlessly into sunglasses outdoors, combining practicality with refined style.

FROM YOUR FIRST VISIT TO A RELATIONSHIP THAT LASTS Care doesn’t end at collection. Clients are invited back every six months for a complimentary glasses service, where frames are professionally cleaned, adjusted and thoroughly checked to maintain comfort, performance and longevity. Eyewear is treated as an investment, reinforcing The Spectacle Factory’s commitment to lasting value and long-term relationships. Beyond the practice itself, The Spectacle Factory is deeply

committed to education and community. They have built the world’s largest online glasses community, with over 12 million views across their educational YouTube content. Through these videos, Robert shares expert insights into lenses, frames and eye health, empowering people to make informed choices and celebrate individuality through eyewear. Robert explains: “The perception of glasses has changed dramatically. Today, eyewear is about personalisation, quality and selfexpression. Whether someone prefers bold, colourful frames or sleek, minimalist designs, our

The Spectacle Factory Unit 1 Dewhurst Row Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772 312213 thespectaclefactory.com

goal is to make every client feel confident and amazing in their glasses. Eyewear is now part of people’s wardrobe – and the possibilities are limitless.” With unrivalled technology, expert care, outstanding craftsmanship and genuine value, The Spectacle Factory sets the benchmark for modern eye care. As three delighted clients put it: “Who would have thought a visit to the opticians could be so enjoyable?” “I would give more than five stars if I could.” “What an amazing, stress-free experience.” n

@the.spectacle.factory

@thespectaclefactory

MEDIK8 HYDR8 B5 INTENSE FROM £20 In just 24 hours, replenish and recharge your skin’s natural moisture levels for clinically proven smoothing and plumping results. themeltco.com

WEDDING RADIANCE

OPALESCE SKIN C20 £76 Formulated by Rebecca Brown, a registered nurse and independent prescriber, this is a high-potency vitamin C serum that brightens uneven tone, supports collagen and helps defend skin against daily environmental stress. rebecca@opalesceskinclinic.co.uk opalesceskinclinic.co.uk

From brightening vitamin C to soothing serums and long-lasting colour, discover beauty essentials designed to help brides glow

MII FOREVER EYE COLOUR CRAYON EYESHADOW £19 Easily blendable and smudge-proof, this creamy eyeshadow crayon delivers long-lasting colour that stays flawless through every moment of your big day. ribbyhall.co.uk

MEDIK8 BLEMISH SOS £25 This rapid-action treatment gel is formulated with maximum strength salicylic acid (2%) to quickly diminish the look of blemishes, calm visible redness and leave the complexion looking clear and healthy. Melt Backridge Farm Twitter Lane Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 themeltco.com JO MALONE SEA SALT & BERGAMOT COLOGNE £125 jomalone.com

ALBUS & FLORA LIP FACIAL £30 A 4-in-1 advanced mask with polyhydroxy acid and fruit enzymes to gently exfoliate. Hyaluronic filling spheres deeply hydrate, plump and improve lip line definition while innovative lipo-fill technology stimulates fat cells to improve the look of fine lines and vertical wrinkles. discoverlaser.co.uk/skincare-products/

MII BRIGHT EYED HYDROGEL MASK £24 Soothes, revives and revitalises the under-eye area leaving skin feeling instantly hydrated, smoother and brighter. The Spa Hotel, Ribby Hall Village ribbyhall.co.uk

MII HYDRA BOOST LIP LOVER £18.50 A dual action formula delivers highly pigmented colour with hydrating care while it smooths, plumps and moisturises lips. ribbyhall.co.uk

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

OPALESCE SKIN REPLENISH £58 A rich, peptide-led moisturiser that rebuilds the skin barrier and replaces the ceramides ageing skin loses. rebecca@opalesceskinclinic.co.uk 07425 478 094 opalesceskinclinic.co.uk

MEDIK8 CALMWISE SERUM £39 Visibly calms redness and relieves sensitive skin. themeltco.com

THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TREATING COMMON SKIN CANCERS

Mohs surgery • Single-visit surgical treatment • Local anaesthetic • Lab work done while you wait • Smallest possible scar • 99% cure rate for a primary skin cancer

SKIN CANCER SAVIOUR

“I

had a small blemish on my forehead that was worrying me. My daughter had been saying to get it checked because it had started bleeding and had got a bit bigger. “I went to my GP, who thought it was a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). She said she could put me on the waiting list to have it removed on the NHS. It only sunk in afterwards that I probably had a skin cancer, and I decided to get it treated straight away. I called Discover Laser because they’ve looked after my skin before. “After a consultation confirmed my GP’s diagnosis, I was scheduled for Mohs surgery with Dr Aslam at Discover Laser just two weeks later. “On the day of my surgery, I received the usual warm welcome and was settled into their lovely waiting area. I wasn’t in the least bit nervous because I knew I was in the right hands and knew what would be happening. “Dr Aslam removed my BCC in stages. Each time, he took the smallest amount of skin and biopsies were done to check if any cancer cells were left. I had three stages altogether to make sure they were all gone. I didn’t feel any pain at all, thanks to the local anaesthetic. “During surgery, I felt completely at ease. I chatted with the surgical assistants and even got to choose what music I listened to, which was lovely. Afterwards, Dr Aslam stitched me up, and I was allowed to go home. It was a long day, but I didn’t feel anxious because I was so well cared for, and my daughter was with me. “After three days, when my daughter took the bandage off, I was shocked to see the size of the wound compared to the size of the BCC, but I do know they travel under the skin. “We followed the aftercare instructions, and I had no problems with infection. I did have some bruising and two black eyes, but the swelling was minimal. I went back to the clinic to have my stitches out, and their nurse, Deborah, did it with a great deal of care and with no pain at all.

Mohs surgery is the most effective technique for removing common skin cancers – one Discover Laser patient explains why the procedure gave her such peace of mind after a recent diagnosis

BCC before surgery - white circle indicates total removal area.

Five days after Mohs surgery

“Since then, the wound has carried on improving. I had some numbness, which Dr Aslam said might last 12 months, but that has gone. At my three-month follow-up with Dr Aslam, he was pleased with how the surgery had gone and how I’d looked after the wound. I was surprised but very grateful to be given a thorough, full-body skin check to make sure there were no other areas of concern. “I was told it would take 12 months for the pinkness to fully fade, but it’s already looking so much better. Now, eight months later, my scar is hardly noticeable. This is down to Dr Aslam’s skill as a surgeon and Discover Laser’s brilliant aftercare. “Mohs surgery has given me peace of mind that there is only a one per cent chance of my BCC returning. The only thing to remember now is to wear factor 50 sun protection. “I can’t say how grateful I am for the procedure. If you have a skin concern, I would recommend 100 per cent to go to Discover Laser for the best treatment possible. “You know you are in professional hands, cared for, comfortable, reassured and you will be welcomed by the lovely, friendly team.” ■

THE MOHS CLINIC AT DISCOVER LASER BURNLEY, LANCASHIRE BB12 0RT EASY TO ACCESS FROM M65

Eight months after Mohs surgery

NOW, EIGHT MONTHS LATER, MY SCAR IS HARDLY NOTICEABLE. THIS IS DOWN TO DR ASLAM’S SKILLS AS A SURGEON AND DISCOVER LASER’S BRILLIANT AFTERCARE. ~ DISCOVER LASER PATIENT, RIBBLE VALLEY ~

TO BOOK A DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATION call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 To find out more about treatment visit: discoverlaser.co.uk

health&beauty environment is so important. From the first consultation through to the treatment itself, her aim is to ensure every client feels relaxed, respected and completely at ease. Deborah’s background as a qualified and experienced teacher is also an important part of her work. Her communication and listening skills have strengthened her passion for educating clients, sharing practical information and helping them understand how everyday choices can support digestive and overall wellbeing.

A GUT FEELING Drawing on more than 22 years’ experience, Deborah offers a warm, personal approach to gut health and wellbeing at Revitalise Wellness Centre

ometimes, the best people to help us understand our health are those who have experienced the same challenges themselves. For Deborah, her journey as a colon hydrotherapist began with her own experience of IBS and prolonged constipation. Today, she combines her personal experience, professional knowledge and teaching background to offer ladies and gentlemen a warm, discreet and individual approach to gut health at Revitalise Wellness Centre. Having discovered colon hydrotherapy herself many years ago and finding the treatment incredibly beneficial, Deborah was inspired to train as a colon hydrotherapist. More than 22 years later, that personal experience has developed into a career dedicated to helping others understand their digestive health and make positive changes to their overall wellbeing. Over the years, Deborah has built a wealth of knowledge in health, nutrition and wellbeing and has developed a particular appreciation of the connection between the brain and gut. Her own lifestyle reflects the

importance she places on looking after both. She prioritises good quality sleep, takes care with her diet and believes regular exercise and managing stress all have an important role to play in feeling well. Today, Deborah says she feels fitter, healthier and happier than ever, and she is passionate about sharing what she has learnt with her clients. Her treatments at Revitalise Wellness Centre include colon hydrotherapy, herbal colonics, coffee colonics, colon massage and food intolerance testing. Colon hydrotherapy can offer a number of potential benefits, including: • Flushing out accumulated faecal waste • Alleviating bloating • Easing constipation • Supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes Food intolerance testing can also be particularly useful for those experiencing symptoms such as bloating, wind, abdominal discomfort or digestive upset. A simple finger-prick blood test can identify immune responses to a range of fifty-nine commonly eaten foods, providing useful insight into possible connections between foods and symptoms and helping clients make more informed choices about their diet. Every treatment is tailored to the individual because, as Deborah says, no two people are the same. She understands that having a colonic treatment can feel personal, which is why creating a warm, discreet and comfortable

A SIMPLE FINGER-PRICK BLOOD TEST CAN IDENTIFY IMMUNE RESPONSES TO A RANGE OF FIFTY-NINE COMMONLY EATEN FOODS For Deborah, it all comes back to a simple philosophy: looking after our gut is an important part of looking after ourselves as a whole. Her aim is to provide every lady and gentleman who walks through the doors of Revitalise with a professional, personal and caring experience, while helping them feel more informed and confident about their own health and wellbeing. n

Revitalise Wellness Centre 167a Liverpool Road Longton, Preston PR4 5FE 07707 476999 revitalisewellnesscentre.co.uk colonichydrotherapypreston revitalise.wellness

health&beauty

EXPERIENCE THAT RUNS SKIN DEEP

EMA is the expert in advanced non-invasive treatments, using cutting-edge technology to help reclaim your youthful skin confidence

ith years of experience and the world’s most advanced non-invasive technologies at her fingertips, expert Emma Pearce is proving every day that you can turn back time, stay natural and love the skin you’re in. Her passion? Restoring skin confidence. Every client’s journey is tailored, supportive and designed to deliver results that not only meet expectations but exceed them. Now, Emma of EMA Skin Aesthetics introduces her most groundbreaking treatment yet:

EMA DUAL FOCUSED FUSION The first-of-its-kind in advanced non-invasive anti-ageing, this represents the future of rejuvenation. EMA Dual Focused Fusion uniquely

combines HIFU, Radio Frequency and EMS muscle stimulation to deliver powerful lifting, tightening and contouring all without surgery. This multi-layer approach works from deep within the skin to renew collagen, sculpt facial muscles and refine texture for firmer, brighter, younger-looking skin.

PHASE 1: HIFU + EMS = DEEP LIFT AND MUSCLE SCULPT High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound targets the skin’s structural layers to trigger collagen and elastin regeneration for natural lifting over three to six months. Simultaneously, EMS tones and strengthens facial muscles for enhanced definition and firmness.

Results you will love

Benefits

• Noticeable lift to the face, neck and brow

• Firmer, tighter skin

• Reduced fine lines and sagging

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• Safe, comfortable and suitable for all skin types

• Natural alternative to a facelift

• Minimal to zero downtime

• No downtime, results lasting up to three years • Youthful, revitalised skin with improved tone

PHASE 2: RF + EMS = REFINING AND TIGHTENING Radio Frequency gently heats the dermal layers to stimulate collagen, tighten fibres and improve skin smoothness. Combined with EMS, it refines facial structure, lifts and enhances overall tone and radiance.

Experience the next generation of non-invasive rejuvenation. Look lifted. Look radiant. Look like you, only younger, fresher and more confident than ever.

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effectively allowing the teeth to age ahead of the person. In advanced cases of tooth wear or tooth loss, there can also be a reduction in the vertical dimension of the lower face - the height between the nose and chin when the teeth meet. The lower face may appear more compressed, the lips can lose dental support and lines around the mouth can become more noticeable. This is where restorative dentistry can have an intriguing role in visible age reversal. By rebuilding prematurely worn teeth, restoring lost proportions and re-establishing a stable bite, carefully planned dentistry can help reverse some of the dental signs associated with ageing. The objective is not to create a different face. It is to restore what time and wear have taken away. “Your smile could be the best facelift you ever needed - and the best make-up you’ll ever wear. The difference is, you don’t wash it off at the end of the day.

THE NEW FACE OF

ANTI-AGEING At Renovo Dental, leading clinician Dr Beatrice Welsh and Clinical Director Dr Usman Riaz are taking a different approach to ageing. They are looking beyond teeth to the structure, function and proportions of the entire smile and face

or decades, the conversation around ageing has focused largely on the skin. Serums, injectables, lasers and surgery all promise to soften its

visible signs. Yet one of the most influential features in how we perceive a face is often overlooked - the smile.

We have long called the eyes the window to the soul. But if the eyes invite connection, the smile is the ice-breaker. More than that, our smile is a powerful visual indicator of youthfulness, health and vitality. Healthy tooth proportions, brighter enamel and defined edges are characteristics we associate with youth. A smile can communicate warmth, energy and confidence before a word has even been spoken. But just as our skin records the passage of time, so do our teeth.

“People think of dentistry as treating teeth,” explains Dr Usman Riaz. “But our teeth, bite and jaws form part of the architecture of the lower face. What happens inside the mouth can influence what we see on the outside.” It is this relationship that sits at the heart of anti-ageing dentistry.

WHEN TEETH AGE THE FACE CHANGES TOO Teeth are remarkably resilient, but not immune to a lifetime of use. Biting and chewing, grinding, clenching, acidic diets and ageing dental work can gradually alter their shape and length. Edges flatten, enamel thins, teeth become shorter and darker and the bite can change. For some, this happens prematurely. Excessive tooth wear can give an otherwise youthful face a more aged smile -

health&beauty

designed around the individual rather than an idealised template. “The aim isn’t to give every patient perfectly straight, perfectly white teeth,” explains Dr Beatrice Welsh.

THE AIM ISN’T TO GIVE EVERY PATIENT PERFECTLY STRAIGHT PERFECTLY WHITE TEETH, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SMILES HAVE CHARACTER. YOU SHOULD NOTICE THE PERSON FIRST, NOT THEIR DENTISTRY. DR BEATRICE WELSH.

A beautifully designed smile becomes part of you,” says Dr Usman Riaz, Clinical Director at Renovo Dental.

IMPERFECTLY PERFECT Looking younger, however, does not mean looking artificial. Nature is rarely perfectly symmetrical. Real teeth have subtle variations in shape, texture, translucency and position - and these tiny imperfections give a smile character. Dr Welsh and Dr Riaz embrace the concept of the ‘imperfectly perfect’ smile - cosmetic dentistry

“The most beautiful smiles have character. You should notice the person first, not their dentistry.” Modern cosmetic dentistry can preserve and sometimes deliberately recreate, these natural nuances. It is a quieter kind of luxury, it is meticulously planned dentistry that appears effortless.

THE ARCHITECTURE OF YOUTH

Instead of simply asking, How can we make this smile look better, modern dentistry asks how can we help this smile age better? For Dr Welsh and Dr Riaz, the future is about individuality over uniformity, preservation over unnecessary intervention and longevity over trends. Sophisticated anti-ageing is not necessarily about looking 20 years younger. It is about restoring the cues of health, vitality and youthfulness, while preserving what makes a smile natural and unmistakably yours. Renovo Dental: advanced restorative, aesthetic and implant dentistry. n

At Renovo Dental, tooth length, bite, gum architecture, tooth wear, facial proportions and lip support are considered together. Digital scanning, photography and advanced 3D planning allow these relationships to be studied before treatment begins. Treatment might involve whitening, composite bonding, ceramic restorations, orthodontics, replacing missing teeth or rehabilitation of worn teeth. But sometimes the most important decision is knowing when not to treat.

Renovo Dental Pendle House, Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000 hello@renovodental.co.uk renovodental.co.uk

health&beauty with what you want to say, but don’t aim to memorise every sentence. Giving yourself permission to pause, smile or even laugh if you lose your place, often makes you appear more relatable, not less. What you say is far more important than it being perfect. For those who find being the focus of attention uncomfortable, it’s helpful to gently shift your attention outward. Instead of wondering how you look or whether you’re saying the right thing, notice the faces of the people present. Make eye contact with someone who makes you feel safe. Focus on connecting rather than performing. It’s also worth remembering that significant events often bring mixed emotions. Alongside

MIND MAT TERS Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes advises on how we can conquer anxiety and positively prepare for a big event

as much as you imagine. They’re there because they care about you. They want to celebrate with you, not assess your performance.

hen we think about preparing for a big life event, we often focus on the practical details – the venue, the guest list, the outfit – but one of the most important parts of preparation is often overlooked and that is preparing yourself emotionally. Whether you’re getting married, giving a speech, celebrating a milestone birthday, or marking another significant event, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. In fact, I’d be more surprised if you didn’t. When something really matters to us, our emotions naturally become more intense. Many people fear being the centre of attention and think others will be judging them, or noticing every tiny mistake. The reality is that most people don’t scrutinise you nearly

Our brains have a habit of interpreting excitement as anxiety. A racing heart, butterflies in your stomach, shaky hands – these are all signs that your body is preparing for something important. Rather than trying to eliminate those feelings, try changing the story you tell yourself. Instead of thinking, ‘I’m so anxious’ experiment with, ‘This matters to me and my body is getting ready’. Tell yourself that being nervous is perfectly normal and it will help you focus.

THE MOMENTS WE REMEMBER MOST ARE RARELY THE PERFECT ONES. THEY’RE THE AUTHENTIC ONES Ensure that the team supporting you understand your hopes for the perfect day. A professional, experienced team will take a lot of the stress out of the day. Likewise, if it’s a wedding, choose your chief bridesmaid carefully – someone who is calm and organised can be a real asset. If you’re making a speech, remember that authenticity is far more memorable than perfection. People connect with genuine emotion far more than perfectly delivered words. Practice enough that you feel familiar

excitement, there may be sadness, nostalgia or uncertainty. Weddings, for example, can highlight absent loved ones, changing family relationships or the transition into a new chapter of life. Experiencing these emotions doesn’t diminish your happiness – it simply reflects the complexity of being human.

In the days leading up to your event, prioritise the basics. Get as much rest as you can, eat regularly, stay hydrated and avoid filling every spare moment with last-minute tasks. Building in short moments to breathe, take a walk, or simply sit quietly, can help regulate your nervous system far more effectively than endlessly trying to ‘push through’. Finally, remind yourself why you’re there. A wedding is not about delivering a flawless performance, it’s about making a commitment to someone you love. A graduation isn’t about giving the perfect speech, it’s about celebrating years of hard work. When you reconnect with the meaning behind the occasion, the pressure to get every detail right often begins to soften. The moments we remember most are rarely the perfect ones. They’re the authentic ones – the laughter during a speech, the happy tears, the shared smiles and the genuine connections. Those are the moments that stay with us long after the day itself has passed. n Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.

To find out more contact Lynn on 07753 579745 or go to: focus101.co.uk

An hour, a day or an overnight stay

RIBBY HALL VILLAGE

Ribby Road | Wrea Green | Lancashire

Luxury spa breaks ribbyhall.co.uk/spa-breaks

xxxxxxxxxx As Lauren highlights: “Fatty liver disease can often be improved and in many cases reversed, when identified early. The Liver Lab’s aim is to give clients clear information about their liver health so they can make positive changes and monitor their progress over time.”

THE LIVER IS ONE OF THE BODY’S HARDEST‑WORKING ORGANS, PERFORMING OVER 500 VITAL FUNCTIONS AND PLAYING A CENTRAL ROLE IN METABOLIC HEALTH

THE HEALTH ASSESSMENT EXPLAINED

A NEW CHAPTER IN

PREVENTATIVE WELLBEING Thryv Wellness Studio is introducing The Liver Lab, a simple early‑detection liver assessment aimed at tackling an often‑missed area of wellbeing, writes Sarah Ulyatt. Photography: Roger Moore

ased in Kirkham, Thryv Wellness Studio has built a reputation for helping people slow down, reset and reconnect. Founded by Lauren Blockley, the studio offers hot and cold plunge therapy, muscle recovery treatments, guided relaxation sessions, events and an accessible approach to wellbeing - all rooted in a belief that wellness and preventative health should feel open to everyone.

That ethos now underpins their newest addition: The Liver Lab, a fast ultrasound assessment designed to spot early signs of fatty liver disease.

LEARN TO LOVE YOUR LIVER Lauren explains: “The liver is one of the body’s hardest‑working organs, performing over 500 vital functions and playing a central role in metabolic health. Yet it’s often overlooked. Understanding your liver health can offer valuable insight into your overall wellbeing, often before symptoms develop.”

Around one in three adults are thought to have fatty liver disease, making it one of the most common liver conditions in the UK. It’s often called a ‘silent’ disease because many people have no symptoms and don’t realise they have it until it’s found incidentally or investigated for another reason. Routine liver blood tests can also remain normal even when fatty liver disease is present, meaning changes may go unnoticed without further assessment. With over 15 years’ experience as an NHS sonographer, Lauren has seen many people diagnosed with fatty liver disease but receive little ongoing assessment of how their liver changes over time. While the NHS provides excellent care for established disease, opportunities for proactive assessment and prevention are limited. The Liver Lab was created to help bridge that gap by giving people a clearer understanding of their liver health through advanced ultrasound technology that objectively measures liver fat and stiffness.

The Liver Lab service is delivered by Lauren using advanced ultrasound technology to assess liver fat and liver stiffness, alongside a focused ultrasound sweep of the liver. Unlike conventional ultrasound, which relies primarily on visual assessment, The Liver Lab also provides objective, quantifiable measurements that can be monitored over time. These combined results produce a clear liver score, giving a more accurate picture of your liver health and helping determine whether any further action is needed. The assessment scan itself is quick, painless and takes around 10-15 minutes, with the overall appointment lasting 30 minutes. You receive your results immediately, along with a clear explanation and a personalised follow‑up plan. The Liver Lab can also send results directly to your GP, and for those wanting a more comprehensive picture, assessments can be complemented by blood tests and personalised support from their registered dietitian.

health&beauty

WHO IS THE ASSESSMENT FOR? The assessment is suitable for anyone with high cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, regular alcohol intake, a family history of liver disease or simply anyone who wants to take a proactive approach to their health.

THE LIVER LAB BENEFITS • No GP referral - Book directly and access appointments quickly. • Accessible wellbeing - Proactive checks to catch issues early. • Clinically trained sonographer - Over 15 years’ NHS experience. • Reliable interpretation - Same specialist carries out each scan using quantifiable data, not just visual judgment. • Instant insight - Get your liver health findings straight away. • Follow‑up plan - With optional blood tests and personalised support from their registered dietitian. • Quick and simple - Procedure takes just 10-15 minutes, painless and non‑invasive. • Clear pricing - Scans from £195.

WHEN DETECTED EARLY, FATTY LIVER DISEASE CAN OFTEN BE IMPROVED OR EVEN REVERSED THROUGH LIFESTYLE CHANGES

WELLBEING MEETS PREVENTATIVE HEALTH Thryv is evolving into a destination for preventative health as well as wellbeing, but its core remains the same - a welcoming space where people can rest, reset and recover. The Liver Lab is also expanding beyond the Thryv studio through pop‑up clinics and corporate wellness days, making early liver health assessments accessible to businesses, sports organisations and communities across the UK. Whether you’re looking for reassurance, monitoring your health or simply taking a proactive approach to your wellbeing, The Liver Lab is available to book now.

WHY LIVER HEALTH MATTERS Busy schedules, stress, convenience foods, alcohol and disrupted sleep can all place pressure on the liver and is often overlooked, despite it performing vital functions from digestion and hormone balance to detoxification and energy regulation. Fatty liver disease is rising across the UK and many people only discover it once symptoms have already progressed. When detected early, fatty liver disease can often be improved or even reversed through lifestyle changes.

Thryv Wellness Studio Bradkirk Business Park Unit H5 Weeton Road Kirkham PR4 3FZ 01253 272581 theliverlab.co.uk

Photography: Michael Porter

and precision work together to strengthen muscles while improving stability and mobility. However there’s another reason Pilates has developed such a devoted following, it makes you concentrate on yourself. For one hour, the outside world can disappear. There’s no rushing, no scrolling and no thinking about what needs doing next. Instead, you’re concentrating on your breathing, your movement and how your body feels.

FOXFLOW PILATES STUDIO Find your strength. Find your flow. Pilates has become one of the go-to workouts for people looking to build strength, improve mobility and feel more connected to their bodies. Sisters, Georgie and Maddy, at Foxflow Pilates are bringing that experience to Wesham. With a focus on Reformer Pilates, and soon

to be adding the tower to their apparatus, Foxflow offers a workout that might look graceful and controlled, but don’t be fooled, it can provide a serious full body challenge. The beauty of Reformer Pilates is that it’s about quality rather than simply quantity. Controlled movements, resistance, balance

Whether you’re completely new to Pilates or already a committed fan, Foxflow Studio offers a welcoming way to make movement part of your lifestyle and perhaps that’s the biggest attraction, it doesn’t feel like a punishment. It feels like time invested in yourself.

foxflowpilates@gmail.com foxflowstudio.co.uk

NEW GIRLS ON THE BLOCK Women entrepreneurs are driving a wellness revolution in Wesham. Through Pilates, coaching, physiotherapy and recovery services, they are creating a thriving local community built around healthier, stronger and more balanced lives

Photography: Michael Porter

Whether you’re recovering after a workout, looking to support your overall wellbeing or simply want some much-needed time away from the demands of everyday life, Thryv offers the opportunity to press pause.

THRYV WELLNESS

Reset. Recover. Recharge. Wellness isn’t always about doing more. Sometimes, it’s about knowing when to stop, slow down and allow your body to recover. That was Lauren’s thinking behind Thryv Wellness, where heat, cold and recovery come together to create a modern approach to feeling your best.

The experience centres around recovery and contrast therapy, with facilities designed to help you reset both physically and mentally. From the invigorating feeling of cold exposure to the warmth and relaxation of the sauna, it’s about discovering what works for your body and making recovery part of your routine. You don’t have to be a serious athlete to benefit, in fact, that’s part of the appeal. Thryv makes recovery feel accessible, welcoming and enjoyable – something you can incorporate into everyday life rather than something reserved for elite sportspeople. In a busy world, taking time to breathe, switch off and concentrate on yourself can be just as important as the workout itself.

01253 272581 hello@thryvwellness.co.uk thryvwellness.co.uk

health&beauty

Photography: Jo Boulton

strength training is about far more than aesthetics. Feeling physically capable can have a huge impact on confidence and how we approach day to day life, especially as we age. This is particularly important for women, who are increasingly moving away from the idea that exercise is about getting skinny and towards a much more positive message of get stronger, feel better and enjoying what your body can do.

ELAN BODY COACHING

Strength that goes beyond the gym Elan Body coaching is a female only strength training facility, where wellness is about more than simply exercising. It’s about giving woman the space, power and knowledge to build stronger healthier bodies. The coaching approach recognises that we are all different. Our Goals, lifestyles, experience and challenges vary, which is

why having the right support can make such a difference. Rather than chasing quick fixes or short-lived fitness trends, Lyndsey focuses on longevity, helping woman understand their bodies, the importance of building and maintaining strength and developing healthier sustainable habits. There’s also a growing recognition that

hat makes the story particularly exciting is that these businesses aren’t simply about fitness. They represent a much broader understanding of wellbeing, one that recognises the importance of movement, strength, recovery, rehabilitation and taking time for yourself. We meet the women helping to put Wesham on the wellness map.

Being part of Wesham’s growing wellness community also means Elan sits alongside businesses offering complementary approaches to health and wellbeing. Train, move, recover and look after yourself all in one location.

07779 246306 elanbodycoaching@outlook.com elanbcltd.co.uk

ONE COMMUNITY, FOUR APPROACHES

What makes these four businesses so exciting is the way they complement one another. Move with Foxflow. Build strength with Elan. Recover with Thryv. Rehabilitate and move better with Fylde Physio & Recovery. Unit 7, Bradkirk Business Park Weeton Road, Wesham, Preston PR4 3NA

Photography: Michael Porter

offers a more considered approach to looking after your body, whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a niggle or simply wanting to improve how you move.

FYLDE PHYSIO & RECOVERY

Helping you move better Sometimes wellness isn’t about pushing yourself harder. It’s about understanding your body, addressing what’s holding you back and giving it the right support. That’s where Verity at Fylde Physio & Recovery comes in, combining physiotherapy with recovery focused care, the business

Physiotherapy is no longer something people only think about after an injury. Increasingly, it’s part of a proactive approach to health and fitness, helping people understand their movement and address problems before they become bigger issues. And for anyone who exercises regularly, that can be invaluable, or you may be returning to activity after an injury and having professional guidance can provide reassurance and a clear route forward. Imagine everyday life, simply moving without pain or restriction and what an enormous difference it could make to your mental and physical wellbeing. Fylde Physio & Recovery, which offers both Clinic and Community home visits, recognises that wellbeing isn’t just about workouts and healthy eating. It’s also about rehabilitation, mobility and giving your body the care it deserves.

07931 701274 fyldephysioathome@gmail.com fyldephysioandrecovery.gettimely.com

health&beauty

ONE-STOP CLINIC helping women find answers and effective treatment for symptoms that can sometimes be difficult to resolve within the NHS. “Often, women go to their GP with perimenopausal symptoms and are told it is not the right time for treatment,” explains Dr Kai. “In this phase your blood might not show anything, but patients might still need some sort of treatment for symptoms.”

THE CLINIC IS A SPECIALISED PLACE FOR MENOPAUSAL WELLNESS

A specialist team has brought together medical, nutritional, psychological, fitness and aesthetic expertise to support women through menopause

ylde Private Medical has launched an exclusive new Menopause Clinic, creating a one-stop destination for women navigating the often complex symptoms of peri-menopause and menopause. Headed by Dr Kai, who also works as an NHS GP and runs an aesthetic clinic, the new service has been created from a passion for

The Menopause Clinic takes a more holistic approach, recognising that menopause can affect almost every aspect of a woman’s health and wellbeing. Rather than following a standardised route of progesterone and oestrogen alone, Dr Kai says testosterone can also have a role for some women experiencing low libido and cognitive symptoms. “There is so much more to look at – peri-menopause and menopause can present a broad spectrum of issues that can all be treated,” she says. “That’s why we have a team of experts here at the clinic which provides a safe place for women to come and speak about the issues they are faced with.” Lifestyle and nutritional factors can also contribute to how women feel during menopause. A simple blood test can identify deficiencies such as low vitamin D or iron, which can contribute to tiredness, anxiety and reduced cognitive function.

The clinic’s highly skilled multi-disciplinary team includes a dermatologist, trichologist, nutritionist, psycho-sexual therapist and personal trainer – all working alongside GP Dr Kai. Skin and hair concerns can be particularly troublesome during menopause. The clinic can offer treatments including microneedling and red light therapy to support hair follicle function, alongside evidence-based skincare, retinols and aesthetic treatments designed to leave skin looking refreshed and natural. Nutrition is another important part of the service, with advice covering deficiencies and supplements such as omega-3, probiotics and fibre, as well as sustainable approaches to weight management that go beyond injectables. A newly introduced personal trainer is helping women address the loss of muscle mass that can accompany post-menopause, while the clinic’s therapist can provide support around issues such as ADHD symptoms, which can become more pronounced during menopause. “The clinic is a specialised place for menopausal wellness,” says Dr Kai. “We, as a team, have done all the research so we have the clinical expertise to help women.” n

Menopause Clinic Fylde Private Medical 26 St Annes Road West Lytham St Annes FY8 1RF 01253 207568

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health&beauty skin examination allows suspicious moles or lesions to be assessed before they become more serious, often leading to better outcomes. People with fair skin, a history of sunburn, large numbers of moles, previous skin cancers or a family history of melanoma should be particularly vigilant.

SUMMER OF SUNSHINE Consultant dermatologist and specialist in Mohs surgery, Dr Arif Aslam explains why you should look at skin health and get any concerns checked out

fter a summer of prolonged heatwaves, many of us have spent far more time outdoors than usual.

Whether relaxing in the garden, playing sport or simply making the most of the warm weather, our skin has been exposed to more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than in a typical British summer. Consultant dermatologist and Mohs micrographic specialist Dr Arif Aslam believes the end of the summer is the perfect opportunity for people to take stock of their skin health and arrange a professional examination.

Dr Aslam is one of the UK’s leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. He has undertaken advanced fellowship training in Australia and worked in New Zealand, countries recognised worldwide for their expertise in skin cancer prevention. Although many people associate sun damage with holidays abroad, UV exposure builds up over time. Everyday activities can all increase the risk of skin cancer. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Dr Aslam advises people to become familiar with their skin so they can spot changes: “The signs to look for

THIS HIGHLY SPECIALISED TECHNIQUE OFFERS THE HIGHEST CURE RATES FOR MANY SKIN CANCERS WHILE PRESERVING AS MUCH HEALTHY TISSUE AS POSSIBLE He says: “Most of the time the UK climate sees our skin being covered. But with the heat waves over the summer, skin has been exposed. If you notice any changes in freckles or moles it’s time to get a full skin check.”

are new moles or any changes in existing ones – in diameter, colour, or if they are itchy – watch out for non-healing sores too.” Early diagnosis is one of the most important factors in successfully treating skin cancer. A full-body

Dr Aslam provides comprehensive skin cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment and is one of only a small number of dermatologists in the UK and Europe to have completed fellowship training in Mohs micrographic surgery. This specialised technique offers the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr Aslam adds: “Every week in my clinic, the same scenario plays out. A patient walks in assuming a routine skin check is merely an over-cautious chore. Too often, they are surprised when a small, unremarkable blemish turns out to be an early melanoma.”

Who else sits firmly in the high-risk tier? • Men and women with a high mole count: Having had numerous moles as a young adult remains one of the strongest predictors of future melanoma. • T he fair-complexioned profile: Anyone with red or light blonde hair, blue or green eyes, pale skin that burns instead of tans and heavily freckled shoulders. • Patients with ‘sunspot’ history: If you have had solar keratoses frozen off or non-melanoma skin cancers removed, your skin has already demonstrated significant UV damage. • A family history: Having a first relative who had melanoma significantly elevates vulnerability. The critical insight from modern dermatology is that early melanoma rarely hurts, bleeds, or announces itself loudly. It quietly evolves.

IF YOU FALL INTO THESE HIGH-RISK BRACKETS, IF YOU ARE A MAN OVER 50 WHO HAS NEVER HAD A SKIN EVALUATION, DO NOT WAIT FOR AN OBVIOUS WARNING SIGN The data behind who is truly at risk is clearer than ever. Groundbreaking findings from the QSkin Study, tracking over 40,000 Australians, show that people with the highest statistical risk have no idea they are high-risk.

If you fall into any of these highrisk brackets, especially if you are a man over 50, do not wait for an obvious warning sign. A routine, head-to-toe check takes only 15 minutes, but catching a melanoma while it is still thin makes it almost entirely curable.

Dr Aslam emphasises that one group stands out above all others – men aged 50 and older: “Men in this demographic face a disproportionately high risk of developing invasive melanoma and suffering poorer outcomes. They often accumulate decades of ambient sun exposure across the scalp, neck and back – areas hard to monitor in the mirror – and tend to delay seeking medical attention until a lesion becomes thick or symptomatic.”

Following a summer of exceptional sunshine, a professional skin check can provide reassurance – or ensure that any problems are treated early. For anyone with concerns, now is the time to have your skin assessed. n Call Claire on 01282 348434 or email: contact@drarifaslam.com drarifaslam.com

doctify.com/uk/specialist/ dr-arif-aslam-1

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reporting improvements within weeks. While a course of three sessions is typically recommended, clients often notice positive changes after their first treatment. At Contour, however, the focus is always on long-term skin health rather than quick fixes. Realistic advice, consistency and personalised treatment plans form the foundation of every recommendation.

HELPING CLIENTS FEEL LIKE THEMSELVES AGAIN Natural results, honest advice and a focus on confidence are at the heart of Liv Hindmoor’s approach at Contour in Fulwood. Photography: Michael Porter

or many people considering aesthetic treatments, the goal is surprisingly simple. They don’t want to look different – they just want to look like themselves again. Liv explains: “People often come in saying, ‘I want to look like myself and refreshed, I don’t want to look done,’” she explains. “They don’t necessarily mind what treatment they’re having. They just want to look in the mirror and feel good again.” It’s why consultations sit at the heart of the clinic’s approach. Rather than focusing on treatment trends or complicated terminology, every appointment begins with a lengthy conversation about how a client feels and what is affecting their confidence. Many concerns are remarkably familiar. Looking tired despite feeling fine. Feeling self-conscious in photographs. Noticing changes around the jawline, neck or eye area. Struggling with skin that suddenly feels drier, duller or less predictable. For women,

EXCLUSIVE READER OFFER To celebrate the launch of our new 3D Dermaforce treatment, readers can enjoy £25 off all Dermaforce treatments throughout September and October. Valid on Face, Neck, Hands and Body treatments. Simply quote LIVE PRESTON when booking.

perimenopause and menopause can bring additional changes, from increased dryness and sensitivity to unexpected breakouts and loss of skin firmness. “Come in and tell us what you see, how your skin feels and what is affecting your confidence,” says Liv. “We’ll work out the rest.” One of the clinic’s newest and most talkedabout treatments is Dermaforce, an advanced treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency technology.

A CONSULTATION SHOULD FEEL LIKE A CONVERSATION, NOT A SALES PITCH “Dermaforce is one of my favourite treatments because it allows us to address several concerns at once,” says Liv. “It combines microneedling with radiofrequency to support collagen production and improve concerns including lines, loss of firmness, acne scarring, enlarged pores and uneven texture.” Importantly, it delivers visible results without the lengthy downtime many clients worry about. “People want to feel they’ve had something effective done, but they don’t necessarily want days off work or significant recovery time. Dermaforce offers that balance.” Liv says interest in the treatment has been exceptionally strong, with many clients

“The best result is when people tell you that you look well, not ask what you’ve had done,” says Liv. “A consultation should feel like a conversation, not a sales pitch.” For anyone feeling overwhelmed by treatment names or unsure where to begin, Contour offers a Discovery Facial, designed to help clients explore their options in a relaxed, pressure-free environment. Because sometimes the first step isn’t choosing a treatment, it’s simply starting the conversation. n

WOMEN’S HEALTH, WELLNESS & MENOPAUSE EVENT

21st October – Free to attend Nibbles & Drinks Talks from doctors & professionals Treatments & demos on the night

Contour 329 Garstang Road Fulwood, Preston PR2 9UP 07837 589847 contourpreston.com contourpreston

health&beauty If you’re training regularly, a useful guide is around 1.4 to 2.0g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. For someone weighing 60kg, that’s roughly 84 to 120g across the day. And it doesn’t all need to come from chicken, fish or eggs. Lentils, beans, tofu, edamame, peas, nuts, seeds and wholegrains all contribute too. A few grams here and there really do add up.

NOBODY WANTS TO SPEND A SPECIAL DAY FEELING BLOATED And carbohydrates absolutely have their place too. Oats, sweet potatoes, rice, sourdough and fruit give you the energy to train properly and get something out of those sessions. Then think about what goodness you can add. Colourful vegetables, berries, legumes, herbs and spices bring vitamins, minerals, fibre and polyphenols to the table. And I promise you, when you’ve got an outfit you cannot wait to wear, good digestion matters. Nobody wants to spend a special day feeling bloated and uncomfortable.

NUTRITION WITH KELI Expert Keli Thompson explains how you can achieve the feelgood countdown to a big event with great nutrition

e’ve all done it. There’s a big event in the diary, you’ve found the outfit (or you’re desperately searching for it) and suddenly you’re thinking, ‘I want to feel REALLY good for this’. Maybe you’d love

to lose a little body fat, feel tighter, have more definition or simply not worry about bloating on the day. Having something exciting in the diary can be the best incentive to really dial things up.

EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, AVOCADO, NUTS, SEEDS AND OILY FISH PROVIDE ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS THAT HELP KEEP YOUR SKIN LOOKING HEALTHY AND HYDRATED Now, before your mind goes to cutting everything out, we are absolutely not spending the next few weeks living on salads and ditching carbohydrates. There is a much better way to do this. Because I don’t just want you looking good in that outfit, I want you feeling absolutely amazing in it too. First, let’s talk body composition. If you want to lose a little body fat or see more definition, eating less and less is not the answer. Protein and fibre are two things I’d really focus on here. Protein helps maintain muscle, supports recovery and helps keep you fuller, while fibre rich foods support satiety, your gut microbes and digestion.

And let’s not forget those all-important healthy fats for that lovely healthy glow. Extra virgin olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds and oily fish provide essential fatty acids that help support your skin barrier and retain moisture, keeping your skin looking healthy and hydrated. Now, this is the bit I really want you to take on board. Give yourself four to six weeks if you can. Use the event as motivation but make it something you can maintain afterwards too. Then when the next invitation lands, you’ve already got it covered and can just get excited, put on the outfit and enjoy yourself knowing you already feel good. If you’re thinking, ‘Okay, I love this, but I wouldn’t know where to start’ let me take the stress out of it for you. I’ll plan your four weeks nutritionally and make it work around you and your lifestyle, so all you need to do is put it into practice. n Find out more at: nutritionwithkeli.com.

nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com nutritionwithkeli

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One recent patient of audiologist Jo shared their experience: “Jo was incredible, listening and guiding me through the process. Thanks to her care and my new Oticon Intent 1 hearing aids, I could hear speech clearly. I highly recommend Jo and the team for their professional and caring service. 5 stars.” The testimonial highlights an important part of the practice’s approach: patients are treated as individuals, rather than simply being fitted with a one-size-fits-all hearing device like the high-street centres. The audiology team provides guidance throughout the process, helping patients understand their options and help them feel comfortable with their hearing care.

THIS AUTUMN MAKE YOUR

HEARING A PRIORITY

Behind the scenes, Chris, Stephen and Emma also play an important role in maintaining the high standards patients experience. From the smooth running of the clinics to the day-to-day patient experience, they keep patient satisfaction at the forefront while ensuring the business operates efficiently and professionally. It is this combination of clinical expertise and dedicated support that makes the whole team an important part of the care patients receive.

At Preston Hearing Care Centre, the team regularly see people who have been putting off a hearing test because they have gradually become used to struggling to hear. Photography: Michael Porter

erhaps the television has slowly become louder, conversations are more difficult to follow in restaurants, or family members have started pointing out that things are being missed. These changes can happen gradually, making it easy to believe they are simply part of getting older. Hearing loss, however, should not be ignored.

people begin avoiding situations they previously enjoyed. Addressing hearing loss early can help people stay connected to family, friends and the activities that matter to them.

ADDRESSING HEARING LOSS EARLY CAN HELP PEOPLE STAY CONNECTED TO FAMILY, FRIENDS AND THE ACTIVITIES THAT MATTER TO THEM.

With autumn and winter bringing a busy social season of family gatherings, Christmas parties, meals out and time with friends, it can be tempting to think, “I’ll sort my hearing out in the New Year.” But waiting could mean missing out on the conversations and occasions that make this time of year special.

Difficulty hearing can affect everyday communication and confidence. Following conversations can become tiring, particularly when there is background noise and some

This is where the team at Preston Hearing Care Centre and Hearing-Check @ The Lytham Clinic can help. As independent audiology clinics, they provide professional, individualised care, with audiologists Simon, Saminah, Jo and Zahra supporting patients throughout their hearing journey. Each patient has different hearing needs and the team take time to understand how hearing loss affects their day-to-day life before recommending a suitable solution.

FREE HEARING HEALTH CHECK

Preston Hearing Care Centre

The latest invisible hearing aid technology. Up to 40% less expensive than other high street hearing care providers.

Hearing Check @ Preston Hearing Care Centre 167 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 3BH 01772 862000 Hearing Check @ The Lytham Clinic 6 Church Road, Lytham, FY8 5LH 01253 732211

If you are noticing your hearing is not as sharp – don’t delay – book a free hearing health check at either Preston or Lytham and we will complete a full assessment with a free listening experience and sound demonstration. Call Head Office on 01772 862000 to book a free hearing aid sound demonstration and listening experience today. n

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As Halloween approaches, discover the fascinating story, colourful characters and enduring folklore behind Pendle’s witches and their place in Lancashire history

igh on the landscape above the Ribble Valley, Pendle Hill has an unmistakable presence. Its distinctive profile has inspired generations of stories, but perhaps none are more enduring, or chilling, than those of the Pendle witches. More than four centuries ago, in 1612, a community living around Pendle became the centre of one of the most notorious witch trials in English history. Twelve people were accused of witchcraft, one died in prison before the trial, 11 were tried, one was acquitted and 10 were ultimately convicted and hanged. Among the names that have become woven into Pendle folklore is Elizabeth Southerns, better known as Old Demdike. She was an

elderly woman from the Pendle area who was accused alongside members of her family. Her daughter, Elizabeth Device and granddaughter, Alizon Device, were also caught up in the accusations.

EARLY 17TH CENTURY COMMUNITIES GENUINELY BELIEVED THAT WITCHCRAFT COULD CAUSE SICKNESS, DEATH, CROP FAILURES AND OTHER MISFORTUNES Alizon’s story helped set the terrible chain of events in motion. Following a confrontation with a pedlar, she was accused of cursing him after he refused her request for goods. When the man subsequently became ill,

suspicion fell upon her. The accusations grew, spreading from individual disputes into a much wider investigation. Another of the most famous names was Alice Nutter, a comparatively wealthy widow from Roughlee. Unlike the stereotypical image of a witch, Nutter was a respectable member of her community. She maintained her innocence and according to records of the time, remained largely silent during her trial apart from pleading not guilty to the charge of murder by witchcraft. She was nevertheless convicted and hanged. A statue of Nutter now stands at Roughlee, helping to keep her story firmly rooted in the landscape. The trials took place at Lancaster Assizes in August 1612. The accused had been held

Photography: abcbritain / Shutterstock.com

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made certain forms of witchcraft punishable by death. James was himself deeply interested in witchcraft and had written a work arguing that witchcraft was a real and dangerous threat. One of the most extraordinary features of the Pendle case was the evidence given by children. Nine-year-old Jennet Device played a significant role in the prosecution, giving evidence against members of her own family and others accused of attending a supposed witch gathering. By modern standards, the proceedings were deeply disturbing, but they reflected a society in which supernatural explanations could be treated as credible evidence.

THE STORY DRAWS VISITORS TO PENDLE AND LANCASTER, WHILE THE LANDSCAPE ITSELF PROVIDES A POWERFUL CONNECTION WITH THE PEOPLE WHO LIVED THERE IN 1612 Today, the accused Pendle witches form an important part of the area’s cultural identity as well as its history. Their names appear along trails, in museums, books, artworks and local folklore. The story draws visitors to Pendle and Lancaster, while the landscape itself provides a powerful connection with the people who lived there in 1612. Lancashire County Council describes the Pendle witch trials as its most famous connection with witchcraft and highlights the Trail of the Witches linking Pendle with Lancaster.

Photography: Milosz Kubiak / Shutterstock.com

in Lancaster Castle, where the damp cells would have been a grim contrast to the open hills and farms of their Pendle homes. Today, the castle still tells the story of the Lancashire witches and its Well Tower is associated with their imprisonment. But what happened in Pendle was about much more than spooky stories. Early 17th century communities genuinely believed that witchcraft could cause sickness, death, crop failures and other misfortunes. Poverty, illness, neighbourly disputes and longstanding tensions could all contribute to accusations. Lancashire was also a known as a Catholic region at a time when religious divisions and suspicion were intense. The law itself reflected the fears of the age. Under James I, the 1604 Witchcraft Act

And as Halloween approaches, it is tempting to see Pendle simply through the familiar imagery of broomsticks, black cats and ghost stories. Yet the real story is much more compelling. These were not fictional characters, but real people caught in a frightening combination of poverty, superstition, suspicion and a justice system that could turn accusation into execution.

That is perhaps why, after more than 400 years, the story still resonates. When the autumn mist settles around Pendle Hill this Halloween, the shadows may look atmospheric – but beneath the folklore lies a very human story that is forever connected with the local landscape. n

CARE REDEFINED Forget the stereotypes of traditional care. Visiting Angels Fylde Coast is delivering a fresh, relationship-led approach that puts choice, continuity and independence first, writes Ali Gudgeon. Photography: Michael Porter

or many families, the ideal care solution is one that allows a loved one to remain safe, happy and independent at home. Visiting Angels Fylde Coast is helping to make that possible through a care model that combines world-class expertise with local knowledge, carefully matched caregivers and nurse-led support tailored to each individual. Operated by Lytham-born entrepreneur Lisa Footman, Visiting Angels is bringing a fresh approach to care across the Fylde Coast, covering areas from Lytham and Poulton to Kirkham, Freckleton and beyond. While part of a globally recognised franchise with more than 20 years of premium care experience, Lisa is keen to emphasise that the business remains deeply rooted in the local community.

“I’m Lytham born and bred. My family is here, my children have grown up here and I’m invested in this community,” she says. “The benefit of Visiting Angels is that we have world-class policies and procedures, but we’re still a local business run by local people who genuinely care about the area.” That blend of international expertise and local knowledge sits at the core of the company’s success allowing Visiting

Angels Fylde Coast to build a reputation for delivering a premium, person-centred service designed around the individual needs of every client. One of the company’s most distinctive features is its ‘Choose Your Caregiver’ model. Unlike traditional care arrangements, where clients may see multiple carers at varying times, Visiting Angels allows people to select their preferred care team and choose visit times that suit them. “Family is one of our core values,” explains Lisa. “We talk about the Visiting Angels family because people shouldn’t feel like they’re getting a different person turning up every day. We want clients and caregivers to build trusted relationships.” The service itself is extensive. Caregivers support clients with everything from companionship and social outings to specialist end-of-life care. This year, Visiting Angels strengthened its offering even further with the appointment of a registered nurse as Clinical Lead. The move enables the company to provide nurse-led care and work closely alongside district nursing teams, offering a level of clinical oversight that is uncommon within many home care providers. “We’ve invested in bringing a registered nurse into the organisation because we want people to remain safely at home for as long as possible,” says Lisa. “For many people, home is where they feel happiest and most comfortable.”

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That focus on helping older people maintain independence is central to the company’s philosophy. Rather than viewing ageing as a period of decline, Visiting Angels encourages clients to continue enjoying life, building friendships and remaining active within their communities. “Just because somebody is older doesn’t mean life is over,” Lisa says. “For some of our clients, it’s a second chance at life. They make new friendships with our Angels, get out and about, and continue doing the things they enjoy while remaining in their own home.”

The company’s commitment to quality care starts with its workforce. Visiting Angels has around 40 caregivers, all recruited locally from within the Fylde Coast area. The team includes former nurses, physiotherapists and experienced healthcare professionals, providing clients with access to a broad range of skills and expertise. Importantly, the company has built its reputation by investing heavily in its staff and was rated outstanding in last year’s independent audit. Its mission is to become the employer of choice in the care sector by 2030, recognising that happy, well-supported caregivers deliver better outcomes for clients. The pricing model is equally transparent, with no hidden administration fees, no mileage charges for social visits and no additional costs during bank holidays. “We want families to know exactly what they’re paying for,” says Lisa. “It’s one simple charge, with no surprises.” With more than 150 five-star Google reviews, Visiting Angels Fylde Coast is clearly striking a chord with local families. Whether care is funded privately, through local authority direct payments or via NHS Continuing Healthcare funding, the organisation is committed to ensuring high-quality care remains accessible to those who need it.

CLIENT REVIEW

“The care my mum receives from Visiting Angels is outstanding. The carers are always punctual, professional and genuinely caring. Mum looks forward to every visit and has regained confidence and independence since the team became involved. Nothing is ever too much trouble and we have complete peace of mind knowing she is in such safe hands. We would highly recommend Visiting Angels to any family looking for quality home care.”

HHHHH Google Review

For Lisa and her team, the goal is simple: to redefine what people expect from home care. “We want people to rip up the old picture of care,” she says. “Care should be empowering, personal and focused on helping people live well. That’s what Visiting Angels is all about.” n

Visiting Angels Fylde Coast 9 Wood Street Lytham St Annes FY8 1QS 01253 834523 visiting-angels.co.uk/fyldecoast VAFyldeCoast

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£59.50 per pers on

themed christmas parties THROUGH THE

DECADES

Party the night away in the gorgeous settings of The Roundhouse. All party nights include an arrival drink and two course meal plus live entertainment to keep you going all night long!

Saturday 28th November Through the Decades

Friday 4th December 00’s Party Night

Saturday 5th December 70’s Party Night

Saturday 12th December Country Party Night

Friday 18th December Great Gatsby Party Night

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£95 PER PERSON From 7pm Four-course dinner Live entertainment DJ • Magic Get your party shoes ready and raise a glass to 2027 at The Roundhouse!

Saturday 19th December ABBA Party Night

Please see the website for menu and further details.

www.thatchedhamlet.com

The Roundhouse at the Thatched Hamlet, Bilsborrow, Preston, PR3 0RS | T: 01995 640010

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Since opening in Preston, Farleys has strengthened its relationships with local business owners, professionals, community organisations and private clients, while continuing to invest in its people and services. The firm’s ambition is not simply to grow in size, but to deepen its role as a trusted legal partner for the region, building on a wider growth journey that has seen Farleys acquire successful local firms and attract some of the best legal talent in Lancashire.

PRESTON HAS A THRIVING AND AMBITIOUS BUSINESS COMMUNITY, AND WE WANT TO BE PART OF THAT CONTINUED SUCCESS

ROOTED IN PRESTON, READY FOR THE FUTURE Based at Charnley House, in the heart of what is often known as Preston’s legal quarter, the firm has become a familiar name for those looking for clear, practical legal advice without unnecessary jargon.

Farleys advises individuals on a wide range of matters, including family law, employment issues, residential property, wills, trusts and probate, personal injury, medical negligence, motoring offences, inquests and claims against public authorities.

Head of Business Development, Stephen Bolton explains why Preston was the natural choice for Farleys Solicitors and why the city continues to offer opportunities for growth

arleys Solicitors has proudly been part of Preston’s business community for almost a decade, supporting local families, individuals and businesses from its office in the city’s historic Winckley Square.

The firm also supports businesses at every stage of the commercial journey, from start-up advice and company structures to contracts, employment law, commercial property, restructuring, insolvency and dispute resolution. Stephen Bolton, Farleys’ Head of Business Development, says Preston has always been a natural fit for the firm. “For us, Preston is far more than a location,” he says. “It is a city built on enterprise, resilience and strong relationships. Those values closely align with our own approach to business. We believe the best partnerships are not transactional, they are built over time through trust, understanding and consistently delivering value.”

“As we approach our tenth anniversary in the city, we are hugely ambitious about the future,” Stephen adds. “We want more businesses and individuals across Preston and Central Lancashire to experience the benefits of working with a law firm that combines legal expertise with commercial understanding and a down-to-earth approach.” That approach is key to Farleys’ appeal. Whether someone is moving home, planning for the future, resolving a family issue or seeking advice after a life-changing event, the focus is on guidance that feels straightforward and supportive. For business clients, the same principle applies, with advice designed to be commercially useful as well as legally sound. Stephen says: “Preston has a thriving and ambitious business community, and we want to be part of that continued success. Our role is to help clients make confident decisions, protect what matters to them and make the most of the opportunities ahead.” With a growing presence in Preston and a wider network across the North West, Farleys is well placed to support the city’s next chapter. For the firm, the message is simple: it is here for Preston, for its people and for the businesses helping to drive the region forward. n

Farleys Solicitors Charnley House, 13 Winckley Square Preston PR1 3JJ 01254 368040 farleys.com

IT’S ALL GO… A period of convalescence reveals Goosnargh Lodge Park’s growing community, while lakes, leisure facilities, gardens and golf bring fresh momentum into autumn, writes Tedd Walmsley. Photography: Anthony P Driver

ometimes you have to stop to notice just how quickly things are moving. Following an unexpected health scare and the fitting of a pacemaker, I found myself doing something I’m not particularly good at – sitting still. For part of my convalescence, that meant returning to our lodge at Goosnargh. Liz inevitably had to return to work, leaving me with strict instructions to take things easy and plenty of time sitting on the deck watching the world go by. What I hadn’t anticipated was just how much that period would reinforce one of the things we have come to value most about owning here. Food parcels appeared. There were friendly knocks on the door, offers of help, cups of tea and regular chats to make sure I was doing as I was told. Nothing intrusive or overbearing, simply people quietly looking out for one another. We have talked about the emerging community at Goosnargh Lodge Park in

previous articles but, when you experience that kindness personally, it takes on rather more meaning.

There was, however, only so much sitting still I could manage, particularly when everywhere I looked something seemed to be happening. If there is a phrase to describe Goosnargh Lodge Park as we head into autumn, it is quite simply – it’s all go. Perhaps the most visible transformation is taking place around the main lakes. Anyone visiting recently will have seen some fairly serious machinery at work as a major programme of restoration and landscaping gathers pace.

WHEN YOU EXPERIENCE THAT KINDNESS PERSONALLY, THE COMMUNITY TAKES ON RATHER MORE MEANING The lakes are being reshaped and restored, with fountains forming part of the finished scheme. It is substantial work but, within weeks, much of what currently resembles a construction project will have been transformed into another of the park’s defining features. Elsewhere, the new gym and sauna are moving into place, adding another dimension to the facilities available to owners. The community garden is progressing too.

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Meetings with greenhouse suppliers are taking place and the aim is to have another element of the park taking shape as autumn arrives. It is easy to imagine residents growing produce, exchanging ideas and inevitably enjoying another excuse for a coffee and conversation.

I ARRIVED NEEDING SOMEWHERE PEACEFUL TO RECOVER, YET AROUND ME WAS A PLACE ANYTHING BUT STANDING STILL Even my enforced spell on the deck managed to reconnect me with another old passion – golf. The park retains several holes from its former life as a golf course and the collaboration between Goosnargh and nearby Longridge Golf Club is gathering

pace. Plans are progressing to work on new tees and greens for the remaining holes, sympathetically bringing another part of the original landscape back into use. I may have been under instructions to convalesce, but I couldn’t resist getting involved in some of the conversations. Old habits die hard. All this activity is also opening up what I think will become some of the most attractive positions on the park. A limited number of plots remain overlooking the two main lakes, including just two further opportunities around the main lake itself. As the landscaping reaches completion, it becomes much easier to appreciate quite how special these locations will be. For anyone wanting to make the move more quickly, there is another option. Five or six completed lodges from existing stock are currently available, offering the opportunity to move in without waiting for a new lodge to be ordered and commissioned. They provide a variety of styles and specifications, with prices ranging from around £150,000 through to approximately £325,000. It is a subtle but important distinction.

Goosnargh is increasingly becoming somewhere you can visit today, find the lodge that feels right and potentially start enjoying the lifestyle almost immediately. The photographs accompanying this article show the scale of what is happening, but inevitably they capture Goosnargh at a moment in time. Within weeks, machinery

will have disappeared, banks will have been landscaped and the lakes and fountains will begin to reveal the finished picture. Perhaps that is what struck me most while sitting on our deck. I arrived back at Goosnargh needing somewhere peaceful to recover and found exactly that. Yet around me was a place anything but standing still. There was machinery working in the distance, plans being discussed, gardens developing, golf holes being rediscovered and new friendships forming. And occasionally, thankfully, someone arriving with a cup of tea. As autumn approaches, Goosnargh Lodge Park feels as though it is moving into another phase of its story and for once, I had the perfect excuse to sit quietly and watch it happen. n

Goosnargh Lodge Park Inglewhite Road Preston PR3 2ED 01772 211211 goosnarghlodgepark.co.uk

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CHARITY F O C U S Live Preston & Fylde takes a look at ongoing fundraising projects that see thousands of pounds donated to good causes around the region If you want to highlight a charity, please email: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

FULWOOD DENTIST GOES THE DISTANCE Fulwood dentist Dr Chris Ball recently conquered Bolton’s Ironman 70.3 race – his first ever competitive triathlon – and raised over £18,000 for Rosemere Cancer Foundation. This fabulous total included a generous £9,000 in match funding from his brother Michael and Michael’s wife Helen. Along with Chris’ wife Poppy and their children Primrose (three) and Cooper (one) – and parents Philip and Vivienne – Michael, Helen and their children were all at the Ironman finish line to cheer Chris home. The triathlon included a 1.2-mile swim in Pennington Flash, a 56-mile cycle and a 13.1-mile half marathon, which finished in Bolton town centre. Chris (36) runs Preston-based healthcare group Cure Clinics with his brother, pharmacist Michael (43). Chris said: “Since last November, mum has been undergoing lots of tests and procedures but so far, doctors aren’t sure where her cancer has started. She is now half-way through a course of chemotherapy and we’re hoping further scans and tests will show a good response to the treatment. “Mum’s chemotherapy is at Blackpool Victoria Hospital but she has also received treatment at the Royal Preston Hospital and Rosemere Cancer Centre.” Chris has also committed to running next year’s London Marathon for Rosemere.

FESTIVAL FANS RAISE £27,000 FOR LOCAL CHARITIES More than £27,000 was raised for local causes during this year’s Lytham Festival. Over 100,000 music fans flocked to the Fylde coast for the five-day event, which featured headline performances from Teddy Swims, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Pet Shop Boys and Pitbull. Funds were collected through bucket donations and guest list contributions and will be shared between five local charities: The Coastal Collective, Heartbeat, The Bobby Ball Foundation, One Fylde and Brian House Children’s Hospice. Festival co-founder Peter Taylor praised the efforts of the charities and their volunteers. He said: “This is an incredible amount of money to raise and I take my hat off to each charity for working so hard each night to encourage fans to donate.” Each charity was allocated a headline night, with teams of volunteers collecting donations from festival-goers throughout the event. Suzanne Thomas, charity lead at The Coastal Collective, which supports children and families, said the team had “thoroughly enjoyed” being part of the festival. Yvonne Ball said the funds raised for the Bobby Ball Foundation – set up in memory of the comedian – “will help many charities on the Fylde coast”. Heartbeat North West Cardiac Care collected donations during Alanis Morissette’s performance, while One Fylde took part on the night of the Pet Shop Boys’ homecoming show. The festival’s closing night, headlined by Pitbull, saw volunteers from Brian House Children’s Hospice collecting donations during the charity’s 30th anniversary year.

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A CELEBRATION OF VILLAGE LIFE The Wrea Green Show once again brought the village together, celebrating local talent, friendly competition and the remarkable community spirit that keeps this much-loved tradition thriving, writes Amy Lancaster-Hall. Photography: Ian Davies and Peter Darby

or a few hours, the usual rhythm of village life gives way to something altogether more colourful. Friends bump into friends, children play, competitive spirits emerge over prize-winning entries conversations that begin with “Haven’t seen you for ages…” somehow end half an hour later.

the chance to explore the village in pursuit of the 22 homes and businesses who created an ‘enchanting’ display. Meanwhile, the Beer Festival supplied an entirely different sort of refreshment. With over 25 cask ales, lager and ciders to choose from, visitors had the perfect opportunity to sit back and enjoy the sunny afternoon.

That was certainly the mood at this year’s Wrea Green Show. This was the 11th annual show which brings the village together for an afternoon of all the things that make a traditional country show so enduring – a celebration of local talent, plenty of food and drink, a generous helping of community spirit and, naturally, a little friendly competition.

Long before the first visitors arrive, there are people planning, organising, judging, stewarding, fundraising and generally doing whatever needs to be done. It is a considerable undertaking – and one that relies on an equally considerable amount of goodwill. This year, special thanks go to the organising group whose hard work keeps the show going to Christine Clark at Wrea Green Institute

IN A WORLD THAT CAN SOMETIMES FEEL INCREASINGLY BUSY AND DISCONNECTED, THERE IS SOMETHING REASSURING ABOUT AN AFTERNOON SPENT TOGETHER for providing such an important home for the event. And then there are the sponsors, exhibitors, judges, stewards, volunteers and local businesses who donate raffle prizes. Each plays their part, often quietly and without much fuss. It really does take a village to put on a Show. Most importantly, though, it takes a village willing to turn up and support it. And perhaps that is why village shows still matter. In a world that can sometimes feel increasingly busy and disconnected, there is something reassuring about an afternoon spent together. About familiar faces, shared experiences and the simple pleasure of belonging somewhere.

A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL TALENT, PLENTY OF FOOD AND DRINK, A GENEROUS HELPING OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND, NATURALLY, A LITTLE FRIENDLY COMPETITION There was plenty to keep visitors entertained. The show itself provided a showcase for the creativity, skill and enthusiasm of local exhibitors with over 600 entries from Fruit & Vegetable classes, to Photography, Handicrafts and Children’s categories. While the Duck Trail offered younger visitors (and more than a few grown-ups!)

The bunting has come down and the tables are packed away. But the memories – and that unmistakable sense of a village coming together – will last a little longer. Until, of course, the Wrea Green Show returns in 2027. n But perhaps the most remarkable thing about the Wrea Green Show is what you don’t necessarily see. Because an event like this doesn’t simply appear on a sunny afternoon in summer.

wreagreenshow.co.uk

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FROM RECOVERY TO RESILIENCE The past few months have provided a stark reminder that even successful businesses can face unexpected challenges

ollowing the major fire in Fleetwood town centre, Wyre businesses have not only had to cope with the direct impact of the incident itself, but also the ongoing disruption caused by significant road closures and reduced footfall. For many independent businesses, every customer matters and prolonged disruption can place real pressure on cashflow, staffing and future growth plans. While no business can predict every event, situations such as these highlight the importance of resilience and business continuity planning. Having a clear understanding of alternative routes to market, maintaining strong customer communication channels, collaborating to promote an area to draw in more footfall, diversifying income streams and planning

for unexpected disruptions can make the difference between surviving a setback and thriving beyond it.

A MENTOR PROVIDES AN INDEPENDENT SOUNDING BOARD, HELPING BUSINESS OWNERS IDENTIFY OPPORTUNITIES, NAVIGATE CHALLENGES AND DEVELOP STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH One of the most effective ways to strengthen a business is through mentoring. Business owners are often expected to be experts in everything, from finance and marketing to staffing and operations, yet many work in relative isolation when making important decisions. A mentor provides an independent sounding board, helping business owners identify opportunities, navigate challenges and develop strategies for sustainable growth. As part of Wyre Council’s Business Support Programme, local businesses can access fully funded mentoring support designed to help them work through the issues that matter most to them. Whether the focus is increasing profitability, improving productivity,

managing change or planning for future investment, tailored mentoring can help business owners gain clarity, confidence and direction. Another area attracting increasing attention is business sustainability. With energy costs continuing to place pressure on operating budgets, many organisations are exploring ways to reduce consumption and improve efficiency. Solar panels and battery storage can play an important role, but they are often only one part of the picture. A professional sustainability audit can identify wider opportunities to reduce costs, increase operational efficiency and improve environmental performance. From heating and lighting systems to equipment usage, fleet management and staff behaviours, there are often numerous opportunities to achieve savings that may otherwise go unnoticed. For larger businesses in particular, a comprehensive review can reveal significant long-term financial benefits while also supporting wider environmental objectives. Businesses across Wyre have demonstrated remarkable determination in the face of recent challenges. By investing in resilience, seeking expert guidance and embracing opportunities to improve sustainability, they can place themselves in a stronger position for whatever comes next. n

To find out more about mentoring, sustainability support, the growth grant for existing businesses, the Wyre Business Awards and the wider Wyre Business Support Programme, contact the Business Engagement Team at Wyre Council via: regeneration@wyre.gov.uk or visit: investinwyre.co.uk.

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lifestyle As it makes a sharp left continue straight ahead onto a rough track. This becomes a path alongside a brook. Cross a stile and continue, gradually ascending, on a rough grass path with the fence on your left. 5. After approximately 300 yards, turn right onto an indistinct grass footpath which roughly follows the contour. Continue on this path for almost a mile. At the end turn left onto a lane. Follow this for 3/4 mile to Grizedale Bridge.

LET’S TAKE A WALK… Local author Steve Garrill enjoys scenic views, friendly company and superb local food on a gastrowalk around beautiful Scorton Scorton

The Barn/The Priory Distance: 9.25 miles 752’ ascent

he dilemma we face every time we visit Scorton is Barn or Priory? We like both. Both offer good food and service. The Barn has a garden centre and gift shop, an extensive menu and a car park. The Priory offers delicious food with a strong emphasis on using local suppliers and produce. The Barn can better deal with larger groups/families. The Priory offers a more personal service. There are buses to Scorton from Garstang and Lancaster. The walk starts from the large Scorton Picnic site car park and initially follows the Wyre Way. It heads through Wyreside Lakes before heading out for a mile long traverse of Harrisend Fell (best avoided in poor weather/visibility). 1. From Scorton Picnic Site car park turn right onto the road and cross the bridge. Turn right onto the path (Wyre Way) and follow it for 1/2 mile to go under the motorway. Take a kissing gate and follow the right field boundary, continue as it bears left. Go through a kissing gate on the right.

2. Join a track. Turn right and go down the right-hand side of Guys Farm. Go through a small gate and continue on a grass path. Go into a caravan park. Turn left on the main drive. Turn right before the toilet block. Go through a gate onto a track. 3. After 200 yards, turn right through a small gate onto a path through the woods. At the end, turn right onto a road. At a junction continue straight ahead. Follow this to a junction and bear left onto another road. 4. After 125 yards turn right over a cattle grid onto a tarmac farm lane for 1/3 mile.

6. Turn right onto a path past a stone wind shelter. Go through three large gates and turn left over a footbridge. Go through a kissing gate and follow the path on the left-hand side of the stream [not as OS map]. Continue on this path for 3/4 mile. At a T junction of paths turn left and follow this path for 11 /4 miles, ignoring a path off to the right. 7. At a junction of paths (footbridge on left) turn right. Go straight ahead onto a lane. After houses turn left onto a public footpath. Follow the left field boundary initially then go diagonally right to a gate. Continue across to a kissing gate and turn left onto the lane. Follow this to the end. 8. Turn right to walk into Scorton. After eating, continue straight on. Turn left onto a public footpath 250 yards after you pass the Scorton sign. Follow this footpath (Wyre Way) to the end. Turn right for the car park. n

Steve Garrill is the author of Lancashire Gastrowalks. Signed copies are available from Plackitt & Booth Booksellers in Lytham.

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THE PRICE OF A BROKEN INHERITANCE PROMISE Years of hard work can be built on the promise of a future inheritance. Tom Howcroft, Partner at Forbes, examines what happens when that promise is broken Fortunately, the law offers a pathway to justice through a powerful legal principle known as proprietary estoppel. Proprietary estoppel is a legal mechanism designed to prevent unfairness when someone goes back on a serious promise about land or property. A successful claim usually requires: The Promise: You were given clear, unambiguous assurances that you would inherit the business, land, or property. The Reliance: You believed that promise and made significant life or career choices based upon it.

t’s a scene familiar to many farming families and business owners. A parent and child overlook the land or workshop, and the parent smiles: “One day, all of this will be yours.”

The Detriment: You acted to your own disadvantage because of that belief, typically by working for little or no pay, passing up lucrative opportunities elsewhere, or investing your own funds.

This informal promise often underpins family business succession planning. For the parent, it offers peace of mind but for the younger generation, it can motivate years of hard work, often for low wages, in reliance on a future inheritance.

The real-world impact of this legal principle was illustrated by the Supreme Court case of Guest v Guest.

But what happens when ‘one day’ arrives and the promise is broken?

Family fallouts, late changes of heart, or rewritten Wills can cause long-standing assurances to disappear, leaving a devoted family member disinherited and the business passing elsewhere.

caring Lancashire • Manchester • Leeds

Andrew Guest lived and worked on his parents’ dairy farm for over 30 years from the age of 16. He accepted wages well below the agricultural industry average, relying on repeated promises that he would inherit a substantial share of the farm. However, following a family dispute, the farming partnership was dissolved and Andrew was forced to leave. His parents went on to execute new wills, disinheriting him entirely.

The court sided with Andrew, finding he had relied on those assurances to his financial detriment. A substantial remedy was ordered, showing that informal promises can have serious legal consequences.

VITAL LESSONS FOR FAMILY BUSINESSES

To avoid costly, emotionally draining litigation, family business owners should take note of three key lessons: Communicate openly: Talk about retirement and succession plans early. This allows family members to align expectations while changes can still be made peacefully. Document agreements: Verbal promises are a breeding ground for disputes. Secure your succession plans, partnership structures and expectations in a written agreement. Review wills regularly: Ensure your will aligns with business agreements and actual promises, protecting both your legacy and your family from future legal battles.

HOW FORBES SOLICITORS CAN HELP

If you have been left out of a Will, received less than promised, or are involved in a dispute over a trust, estate, farm, family business, or inherited property, early advice is essential. Broken inheritance promises often to involve complex facts, sensitive family relationships and years of financial sacrifice. Forbes Solicitors’ Contentious Trusts and Probate team can advise on proprietary estoppel claims, will disputes, trust disagreements, estate administration issues and disputes between beneficiaries, executors, trustees, or family members. We can assess the strength of your position, advise on evidence, explore negotiation or mediation and, where needed, act robustly through court proceedings. n

Life has its moments. Some happy, some heartbreaking, and some where you’re going to need legal advice. With Forbes, you can embrace life with confidence, safe in the knowledge that whatever happens, we’ll be here for you.

forbessolicitors.co.uk

0333 207 1130

lifestyle Despite the setbacks, Jon kept going, supported by family, fellow runners and sponsors, including Appletree Finance. Whilst not everyone fancies running 105 miles through the Lake District, there are plenty of other ways to challenge yourself. Whether it's a skydive, abseil, sponsored walk, cycle ride or fun run, every fundraiser helps the charity make a difference. n

WHAT MAKES JON’S ACHIEVEMENT EVEN MORE REMARKABLE IS THAT HE HAD A PACEMAKER FITTED AT JUST 17 YEARS OLD

NOT YOUR AVERAGE RUN July saw a plaster technician from Blackpool Victoria Hospital go to extraordinary lengths to support a cause very close to his heart, writes Katie Hammond

he Lakeland 100 is a gruelling 105mile race through some of the UK's most challenging terrain. Runners face steep climbs, technical trails, night-time navigation and unpredictable weather, all whilst aiming to finish within 40 hours - many never make it to the finish line. For Jon Villaggio, taking part in the Lakeland 100 wasn't just about testing his limits. Jon signed up for the challenge to raise money for Blue Skies Hospitals Fund, and so far, he has raised an incredible £2,815.73 to support patients, families and staff across Blackpool Teaching Hospitals. Head of Charity at Blue Skies, Kila Redfearn said: “We're continually amazed by the lengths people go to raise money for their local NHS charity. From skydives and abseils to marathons and mountain climbs, our supporters never fail to inspire us.

“What makes Jon’s achievement even more remarkable is that he had a pacemaker fitted at just 17 years old.

Feeling inspired? Blue Skies would love to help

"Despite this extra challenge, he has continued to embrace endurance sport and successfully completed one of the country's toughest events to raise an amazing amount of money.”

fundraising journey today. You can email Lynn

Lynn Peat, Community Fundraiser, to start your at Lynn.Peat1@nhs.net or call 01253 951004 to discuss your ideas and find out how Blue Skies can support you every step of the way.

Jon completed the course in an impressive 38 hours and 52 minutes, crossing the finish line on Sunday 26th July.

blueskiescharity.co.uk

Reflecting on the experience, he summed it up perfectly: "I loved it, hated it, loved it."

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The race certainly pushed him to his limits. Around 30 miles in, Jon injured his foot after kicking a rock, whilst heavy rain and dense fog made conditions even tougher. During the overnight miles, he faced the emotional challenge of running alone after another runner withdrew.

Can you take on a challenge for blue skies? If the answer is yes then please get in touch... Lynn.Peat1@nhs.net 01253 951004 www.blueskiescharity.co.uk Registered Charity Number 1051570

you take on your next challenge. Get in touch with

Discover what your child will learn in Year 6 Maths and how you can support them at home. Scan to get your free copy

LUXURY RETREATS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT At Gilpin, everything feels personal, effortless, and genuinely special. Exceptional service, stunning surroundings, beautiful spa experiences, and incredible dining at the Michelinstarred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and Gilpin Spice.

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Experience dining excellence at our two acclaimed restaurants, Michelin-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and pan-Asian Gilpin Spice, or indulge in afternoon tea at our scenic Lake House. From seasonal tasting menus and bold flavours to a traditional selection of sweet and savoury treats, there’s plenty to discover.

Wellness is at the heart of the Gilpin experience, with private Spa Trails, two dedicated spas and wellness facilities in many of our bedrooms. From private hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms to inroom treatments, there are plenty of ways to relax and recharge during your stay.

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COMMUNIT Y CORNER Bringing you closer to what’s happening around Preston and the Fylde, highlighting local projects, inspiring individuals and the moments that bring our community together If you have any community news items, contact: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

BE PART OF PRESTON GUILD 2032 Community groups, organisations, businesses and local partners are invited to share ideas for projects that could create a lasting legacy for Preston Guild 2032. Held once every 20 years, Preston Guild is a unique celebration of the city’s communities, culture, heritage and creativity, with origins dating back to 1179. Preparations are already under way and the Guild Committee is seeking expressions of interest for community-led projects that will benefit local people and help shape the Guild’s future legacy.

FUNDING BOOST FOR MIDLIFE WOMEN’S VOICES Blackpool musicians Vicki Cooper and Becky Foxton, the duo behind Northern Light, have been awarded Arts Council England funding for a new research and development project exploring the experiences of women in midlife through music, creativity and community. Having discovered new opportunities through music in their 50s, they have seen how creativity can boost confidence, improve wellbeing and build lasting friendships. The project will engage women aged 40+ across the Fylde Coast through creative sessions and storytelling.

NEW COMMUNITY FELLOWS SCHEME The University of Lancashire has appointed seven leaders from Lancashire’s voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector as its first Community Fellows, creating a new partnership to benefit communities across the county. The Fellows will help strengthen links between the University and local organisations, ensuring community voices help shape research, policy and student learning. The scheme aims to create lasting impact through collaboration, knowledge-sharing and community-led innovation.

WOODCRAFT SCULPTURE TRAIL Discover the Woodcraft Sculpture Trail at Lytham Hall, where five beautifully crafted birds and one mischievous squirrel are hidden throughout the historic parkland. Created by local craftsman James Shelliker of Acorn Woodcraft, the sculptures showcase the skill and creativity he has developed over more than 15 years producing wooden artwork across the Fylde. The trail offers a fun way for visitors of all ages to explore the grounds and enjoy nature and is on display until the end of October.

CELEBRATING GREEN FLAG EXCELLENCE The Green Flag Award is the international benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces, recognising high standards of maintenance, safety, sustainability and community involvement. Preston City Council has achieved Green Flag status for several parks, including Avenham and Miller Parks, Haslam Park and Winckley Square Gardens, reflecting its commitment to quality public spaces. Blackpool Council has also received Green Flag Awards for a number of parks, demonstrating excellence in park management and providing attractive, welcoming environments that enhance residents’ health, wellbeing and quality of life.

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS SIGNED COPIES OF Three beautiful A5 books with clear instructions, simple maps, snippets of local history and photography • Walks from the South Fylde Line (£10.95) • Walk the Ribble (£14.95) by local award-winning photographers Mark McNeill, • Lancashire Gastrowalks (£14.95) are available from Plackitt & Booth in Lytham Gregg Wolstenholme and Harry Fenton. and can be ordered online (scan the QR code)

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weddings Sustainability continues to influence wedding planning too. Eco-conscious choices are now less of a statement and more of an expectation. Locally sourced flowers, seasonal menus, digital invitations and reusable décor are helping couples reduce waste while supporting local businesses. It’s a trend that resonates particularly strongly with younger couples who want their celebrations to align with their values. Food has also taken centre stage. Rather than traditional sit-down meals, interactive dining experiences are becoming increasingly popular. Think grazing tables, artisan food stations, live cooking experiences and creative tasting menus. Guests are looking for memorable experiences and couples are keen to ensure the food becomes part of the entertainment.

FROM BESPOKE VOWS AND SIGNATURE COCKTAILS TO PERSONALISED WELCOME GIFTS AND UNIQUE ENTERTAINMENT, WEDDINGS ARE BECOMING HIGHLY INDIVIDUAL CELEBRATIONS In terms of style, there is a move away from minimal all-white palettes towards richer colours and warmer tones. Sage green, terracotta, deep burgundy and earthy neutrals are appearing everywhere, creating elegant yet inviting settings that photograph beautifully. Technology is also playing a greater role. Alongside professional photographers and videographers, many couples are hiring

FOREVER BEGINS HERE This season’s weddings are all about personality, authenticity and unforgettable guest experiences. Here’s what’s trending now

hile timeless romance remains at the heart of every celebration, today’s weddings are becoming more personal, experience-led and reflective of individual love stories than ever before. One of the biggest shifts is the move towards intimate celebrations. Smaller guest lists continue to grow in popularity, allowing couples to spend meaningful time with their nearest and dearest while investing more in the details that matter

most. Whether it’s a stylish countryside venue, exceptional dining or a dream honeymoon, many couples are choosing quality over quantity. Personalisation is another defining trend this season. Couples are increasingly designing ceremonies and receptions that reflect their personalities, interests and shared journey. From bespoke vows and signature cocktails to personalised welcome gifts and unique entertainment, weddings are becoming highly individual celebrations.

dedicated social media content creators to capture candid behind-the-scenes moments for instant sharing. Documentary-style photography that captures authentic emotion rather than posed perfection is also firmly in demand. For couples planning a wedding in the months ahead, perhaps the most important trend of all is this: authenticity. The modern wedding is no longer about following rules or impressing guests. Instead, it’s about creating a celebration that feels genuine, joyful and uniquely yours. Whether that means a grand country house reception, a relaxed coastal gathering or a celebration close to home, the most memorable weddings are those that tell a real story, with love firmly at the centre. n

Photography: Kyle Mac Photography

IT STARTED WITH A YES When Bashall was transformed into a dedicated wedding venue, the large sliding barn doors became more than just practical features, they became part of the experience.

Every wedding tells a different story. Long before the dress, the flowers or the first dance, every wedding begins with one simple word: ‘Yes’

t Bashall Barn, it started with a ‘yes’ too. Yes, to transforming the family farm into a wedding venue. Yes, to creating a place where couples could celebrate in their own way. And every year since, we’ve continued saying yes to new ideas, new traditions and new ways of making weddings feel personal. Over the last decade we’ve watched weddings evolve. Couples are less interested in following a formula and more interested in creating a day that reflects who they are. Whether that’s a twilight celebration, a wedding planned in just a few months, bespoke menus created by our own chefs, or a four-legged ring bearer, we’re always asking one question, ‘How can we make it happen?’ Being an independent, family-owned venue means we can be flexible. Owner Simon Barnes is still involved in the day-to-day running of Bashall because this place has always been close to his heart. Every wedding matters because every couple matters. One of the things guests remember most is the journey through the venue itself.

Photography: Charlotte Shepherd Photography

Photography: Kyle Mac Photography

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of doors marks the next chapter of the day, creating those magical ‘wow’ moments guests talk about long after the wedding. Of course, saying yes doesn’t mean saying yes to endless extras. The team at Bashall Barn believe in being transparent. That’s why the Wedding Store, filled with centrepieces, easels, hurricane jars and styling pieces, is free for our couples to use. Fairylights, projectors, white table linen and the use of The Den for partners to get ready, are all included too, because we believe those little details should simply be part of the experience. Weddings will continue to change. Trends will come and go. Planning times may get shorter. Guest lists may become bigger or smaller. But every unforgettable wedding still starts in exactly the same way. With a yes. n

EVERY WEDDING MATTERS BECAUSE EVERY COUPLE MATTERS They create moments of anticipation, from opening into a beautifully dressed wedding breakfast room to later revealing the evening celebrations. Imagine your guests waiting as the doors slide open to reveal the newlyweds striking a dramatic pose at the bar, or perhaps your band ready to start the party. Every set

Bashall Barn Bashall Eaves Clitheroe BB7 3LQ 01200 428964 weddings@bashallbarn.co.uk bashallbarn.co.uk

Scan to view the Collection

S AY I D O . . .

TO YOUR DREAM VENUE A collection of 7 Dream Venues across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley, Wyre & Yorkshire Dales.

DREAMVENUES.CO.UK Photographers: Jessie and Emilie, Rachel Ovenden, Sam Sparks, Love & Luna, Nick English, Paige Hargreaves & Daisybell.

EW E N NU VE

DREAM WEDDING

S H OWC A S E S & O P E N D AY S Join us anytime from 12pm–4pm T H E RO U N D H O U S E Sat 26th & Sun 27th Sept MIT TON HALL Sun 11th Oct & Sun 29th Nov SHIREBURN ARMS Sun 11th Oct & Sun 22nd Nov FA LC O N M A N O R Sun 11th Oct & Sun 22nd Nov E AV E S H A L L Sun 18th Oct & Sat 28th Nov WENNINGTON HALL Sun 25th Oct & Sun 22nd Nov HOLMES MILL Sun 22nd Nov Visit dreamvenues.co.uk to explore our collection, view more showcase dates and pre-register.

COMING AUTUMN 2026

2027 REMAINING D AT E S COLLECTION AVA I L A B L E AT £ 5 . 6 5 0

‘ T H E T E A M W E R E FA N TA S T I C ! ’

‘A N A M A Z I N G V E N U E ’

‘ T H E B E S T D AY O F O U R L I V E S ’

Sophie & Tom, May 2026

Rebecca & Nathan, July 2026

Astrid & Chris, July 2026

The team were fantastic, and made sure

From the very beginning, through to the minor

It was so special to see our families together

everything ran smoothly, we couldn’t have asked

details on the day itself, you all made everything

celebrating our special day, and bringing our dog

for a better day! Everything we planned fell into

run so seamlessly and allowed us to actually

Dexter to join us made it perfect! We massively

place, the food was exquisite and all our guests

enjoy the day without worrying about anything

appreciate the help and guidance during the

have commented on what a perfect day it was.

going on in the background!

planning process, to our wedding day itself.

Y O U R S T O R Y, O U R S E T T I N G Mytton Fold Hotel, located in the heart of the Ribble Valley is a wedding venue for all seasons and styles, with stylish accommodation onsite for your entire wedding party. The Abbey and Ribble Suites provide elegant and versatile settings for your special day, offering the perfect backdrop for everything from an intimate ‘I do’ to a lively wedding celebration. With availability for 2027 and beyond, there is plenty of opportunity to begin planning your dream day. Natural light pours into the Abbey suite, complementing the neutral décor and creating a timeless canvas that can be effortlessly styled to suit your chosen theme. Whether you envision a romantic, intimate ceremony or a larger celebration filled with family and friends, Mytton Fold’s versatile indoor and outdoor spaces can be tailored to bring your vision to life.

Should the weather allow, why not join us with friends for a moment of calm, and enjoy a tipple from our extensive drinks menu out on the relaxing terrace.

T H E F U L L PA C K A G E A N D M O R E The Mytton Fold weddings team offer couples a truly personal service from start to finish, assuring that the planning process is both seamless and stress-free. The dedicated team provide knowledgeable advice and guidance along the journey, bringing your dream day to life, detail by detail ensuring every element of your day meets your expectations, and is truly perfect to you and your needs.

With its stunning Ribble Valley setting, elegant surroundings and dedicated spaces for every stage of your celebration, Mytton Fold Hotel offers a truly memorable setting for saying ‘I do’.

The wedding packages at Mytton Fold Hotel are tailor-made and extensive, including all that’s needed to celebrate your special day, with everything from use of our bridal makeup room on your special day, bespoke wedding stationery including name cards, table numbers and tabe plan, DJ from Exceed Events for your evening reception, complimetary wedding suite on the night of your wedding, and so much more.

A C C O M M O D AT I O N O N S I T E

THE ‘27 WEDDING EDIT

Mytton Fold offers 34 beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms, alongside two luxurious bridal suites, providing the perfect place to relax and unwind before and after your special day. Wedding guests can take advantage of preferential wedding rates, making it easy for friends and family to stay together and enjoy the celebrations without having to travel far.

Discover the remaining dates collection, including all available dates, Monday to Sunday in 2027. This package is inclusive of 50 day guests and 80 evening guests for a total of £5,650.

With a choice of accommodation to suit every guest, bedrooms include a selection of executive suites, family rooms, pet-friendly options and accessible rooms, ensuring everyone can enjoy a comfortable and welcoming stay. Whether you are getting ready for the big day, enjoying a quiet morning after the celebrations or extending your wedding stay into a relaxing break, Mytton Fold provides a home-from-home in the heart of the Ribble Valley. Visit Jules restaurant during your stay and dine from a range of local produce and seasonal flavours, throughout our extensive lunch and evening menus, plant-based offerings, hand-stretched pizzas and afternoon teas.

Enquire with the weddings team today, and discuss calendar availability, alongside our wide range of flexible packages to suit your requirements, 2027 and beyond. Join us for a private viewing with a member of our weddings team by contacting us at: weddings@myttonfold.co.uk | 01254 240 662. Mytton Fold Hotel, Whalley Road, Langho, BB6 8AB. Scan the QR to discover weddings at Mytton Fold Hotel.

PLATINUM OVAL CUT LAB GROWN DIAMOND CLAW SET HALF ETERNITY RING COLOUR D CLARITY VVS 0.80CT £1775 ainsworthjewellers.com

STERLING SILVER OCTAGONAL CUFFLINKS WITH MOTHER-OF-PEARL AND SAPPHIRE CENTRE £420 ainsworthjewellers.com

LUCIANE OFF-THE-SHOULDER WEDDING DRESS IVORY £750 monsoon.co.uk

CELEBRATE IN STYLE ENCHANT BAG £149 dunelondon.com

Be sure to look your absolute best with these stunning and stylish wedding accessories

SEIKO PRESAGE COCKTAIL TIME ‘WHITE LADY’ DIAMOND TWIST £510 huppach.co.uk

SEIKO PRESAGE COCKTAIL TIME CRUSHED ICE ‘EMERALD MIST’ £420 huppach.co.uk

CHARMING HERRINGBONE BLAZER £110 joebrowns.co.uk 18CT WHITE GOLD LAB GROWN DIAMOND CHANDELIER DROP EARRINGS £3995 ainsworthjewellers.com

LANX SHIREBURN OXFORD MEN’S SHOES £190 LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

EMPREINTE TESS BRA £108.50 BRIEFS £52.50 michelle.b womenswear 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Rd Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060

DUNE LONDON MANIFESTING GOLD LEATHER HEELS £99 dunelondon.com

PLATINUM OVAL CUT LAB GROWN DIAMOND CLAW SET SOLITAIRE ENGAGEMENT RING COLOUR E CLARITY VS1 1.20CT £1715 ainsworthjewellers.com

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

weddings

COUNTRY HOUSE ELEGANCE Abbey House Hotel offers couples a beautiful, romantic wedding venue with stunning gardens, luxurious accommodation and exceptional hospitality

ombining classic elegance with warm, personal service, the historic Abbey House that has played host to dignitaries and royalty, has become one of the region's most sought-after wedding venues. Whether couples dream of an intimate celebration or a grand gathering, the experienced wedding team works closely with them to create a day that reflects their individual style, with flexible packages, bespoke menus and even exclusive use of the hotel. The venue has recently unveiled its beautiful new Wedding Garden, providing a dedicated outdoor ceremony space surrounded by immaculate lawns and lovely floral borders. It is an idyllic setting for exchanging vows beneath open skies before celebrating with drinks and photographs in the stunning grounds. Inside, the opulent reception rooms offer an equally impressive backdrop, whatever the season. Sales and Events Manager Donna Conroy, explains: “The Wedding Garden offers further flexibility for couples who can choose from a wide range of packages to suit every budget. “We are licensed for weddings seven days a week, giving couples complete freedom to choose any day that suits them best.”

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WEDDING OPEN DAYS

ABBEY HOUSE HOTEL, CUMBRIA Sunday 8th November & Sunday 10th January 2027 TIME: 11AM – 2PM

BOOKING NOT NECESSARY

For guests travelling from Preston and the Fylde, Abbey House is perfectly placed for a wedding weekend away. Excellent road links make for an easy journey, while the hotel's 59 bedrooms, including three luxurious honeymoon suites, allows guests to stay together and continue the celebrations long after the evening reception ends. Food is another highlight. Wedding breakfasts are created by the talented kitchen team behind the hotel's AA Rosette restaurant, Oscar's, ensuring every menu is as memorable as the setting itself. Every wedding is supported by a highly experienced events team whose attention to detail has earned Abbey House an outstanding reputation. From planning right through to the final dance, their calm professionalism allows couples to relax and enjoy every moment. The venue hosts around 100 weddings each year, yet every celebration is treated as completely unique. Photography opportunities are endless, from the handsome honey sandstone exterior to the woodland walks and beautifully maintained gardens – and adding a touch of fun is Herbie, the hotel's charming wedding buggy, which transports the wedding party around the grounds for unforgettable photographs.

Romantic in every season, from colourful summer garden ceremonies to cosy winter celebrations beneath twinkling lights, Abbey House Hotel is a venue where exceptional surroundings, outstanding hospitality and meticulous attention to detail come together to create unforgettable weddings. n

Abbey House Hotel & Gardens Abbey Road Barrow-in-Furness Cumbria LA13 0PA 01229 838282 abbeyhousehotel.com

The rest of Your life Should begin Somewhere Special

WEDDINGS AT DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT PRESTON Garstang Road, Preston PR3 5JB 01772 866 503 weddings@dhpreston.co.uk

Your dream Manor house Wedding awaits Set within 11 acres of landscaped grounds, Delta Hotels by Marriott Preston provides a beautiful setting for your wedding, combining elegant interiors with picturesque surroundings. From intimate gatherings to celebrations of up to 180 guests, our flexible spaces, expert team, and on-site accommodation ensure a seamless and memorable day. Celebrate your special day with our 2027 All-Inclusive Wedding Package. Enjoy a prosecco drinks reception in The Courtyard, a three-course wedding breakfast in The Broughton Suite, house wine and a prosecco toast, plus elegant décor and finishing touches throughout. Includes a complimentary bridal suite and menu tasting, from just £3,200 for 40 adults.

Start planning your perfect day Scan the QR code to explore our venue, or contact weddings@dhpreston.co.uk to book a tour!

EDUCATION N E W S

SUCCESSFUL SEASON

NEW COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

BRIGHT FUTURES

NEXT STEPS

LANCASHIRE BACKS TECHNICAL REFORMS

SIXTH FORM LEAVERS

Stonyhurst is celebrating another strong set of GCSE results, bringing the school’s examination results season to a successful close. This year, 16 per cent of grades were awarded at Grade 9, 30 per cent at Grades 9–8 and 45 per cent at Grades 9–7. Pupils achieved strong results across a broad range of subjects, with several pupils securing exclusively grade 9s and 15 per cent of pupils achieving exclusively grades 8s and 9s. The results reflect strong year-on-year progress and the hard work of pupils and teaching staff.

Stonyhurst is celebrating the achievements of its leavers following the publication of this year’s results. Across A Level, IB and Cambridge Technical qualifications 46 per cent of outcomes were graded at A*-A equivalent or better, with 59 per cent of outcomes graded at A*-B equivalent or better. Beyond the grades, pupils continue to make strong academic progress, with Stonyhurst placed within the top 25 per cent of schools nationally for pupil progress. Over 60 per cent of leavers are now heading to Russell Group and international universities.

Preston College has appointed Kate Wallace as its new Principal and Chief Executive. Wallace joins from Burnley College, where she was Deputy Principal and previously served as Interim Principal. With extensive experience across further education, she has led strategic development, strengthened employer and community partnerships, and championed continuous improvement. Her previous leadership roles have included overseeing apprenticeship, skills and workforce development programmes, supporting learners, employers and communities across the region.

The Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) has welcomed Government proposals to give Strategic Authorities a greater role in shaping technical education from age 14. The plans could help more young people access high-quality pathways into skilled careers while addressing employer skills shortages. Lancashire is already supporting this through the Lancashire Skills Hub, which brings together employers and education providers. The proposals offer an opportunity to strengthen technical routes, including apprenticeships and T Levels, alongside traditional academic options.

Westholme celebrated an outstanding GCSE results day, which saw 67 per cent of all entries achieving 9-6 grades, and nearly half (45 per cent) awarded grades 9-7. The product of years of sustained effort, ambition and determination, this cohort’s exceptional set of GCSE results is already opening doors to bright futures, with many students now going on to study a range of A Levels and Level 3 BTECs at Westholme’s Sixth Form.

Westholme Sixth Form is celebrating exceptional results, with 79 per cent of entries achieving A*–B grades and nearly half (45 per cent) securing A*–A grades. Reflecting Westholme’s commitment to preparing every student for their chosen future, leavers are progressing to leading universities while others have secured prestigious degree apprenticeships with Accenture, BAE Systems, HSBC, ScottishPower and UKRI. From mathematics and chemistry to the performing arts, Westholme students’ destinations demonstrate the breadth of ambition and opportunity.

A place where children feel happy, A place where children feel happy, confident and inspired to succeed. confident and inspired to succeed. At Highfield Priory, our nurturing At Highfield Priory, our nurturing environment and small class sizes help environment and small class sizes help every child shine. every child shine. Visit us and experience it for yourself Visit us and experience it for yourself – book a tour today. – book a tour today.

Fulwood, Preston PR2 5RW | 01772 709624 Fulwood, Preston PR2 5RW | 01772 709624 schooloffice@highfieldpriory.co.uk schooloffice@highfieldpriory.co.uk

RECOGNITION BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Stonyhurst’s ISI inspection praises the school’s holistic approach to education, with inspectors giving the college’s vibrant co-curricular programme a rare distinction

tonyhurst’s latest Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report has provided a strong endorsement of the educational approach that has shaped generations of pupils for more than 430 years. The inspection, which serves a similar purpose to Ofsted inspections in the state sector, confirmed that Stonyhurst meets all Independent School Standards across five key areas of school life. Alongside meeting every required standard, the school received the rare distinction of a ‘Significant Strength’ for its co-curricular programme. This recognition reflects the role that

learning beyond the classroom plays in the development of pupils from Pre-Prep through to Sixth Form and highlights an approach to education that places equal importance on academic achievement, personal growth and wellbeing. For families across Lancashire and beyond, the report confirms that pupils benefit from an education that seeks to develop the whole person. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, Stonyhurst encourages young people to grow intellectually, socially, spiritually and emotionally throughout their time at school. This philosophy begins in Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep, where children are encouraged to explore, question and discover through a broad and engaging curriculum. As pupils progress through the school, opportunities expand to include leadership, service, sport, music, drama, outdoor education and a wide range of co-curricular activities designed to help every child discover their strengths and interests.

Inspectors highlighted the impact of this approach, stating: “The co-curricular programme promotes pupils’ wellbeing particularly effectively and is a significant strength of the school.” With approximately 200 activities available across the school, pupils are encouraged to pursue their passions, develop new skills and build confidence beyond the classroom. Whether representing the school in sport, performing on stage, debating international issues, volunteering in the community or participating in specialist academic societies, pupils are given opportunities to challenge themselves and broaden their horizons.

William Doherty, Head of Stonyhurst, welcomed the findings saying: “The recent ISI inspection and the performance of Stonyhurst, in not only meeting all standards but in achieving a Significant Strength in our co-curricular programme, provides

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an outstanding springboard for our future aspirations. “We hold true to the mindset that innovation is our tradition, that our faith does justice, that our pursuit of academic excellence is complemented by our holistic co-curricular programme and that we form our pupils as impactful global citizens with a true understanding of human excellence as men and women for others.” The report found that this wider educational experience has a direct impact on pupils’ development. Inspectors praised the breadth of the curriculum, the quality of teaching and the personalised support available throughout the school. Pupils were recognised as articulate and effective communicators, while senior pupils benefit from an educational environment that values both achievement and wellbeing.

THE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME PROMOTES PUPILS’ WELLBEING PARTICULARLY EFFECTIVELY AND IS A SIGNIFICANT STRENGTH OF THE SCHOOL Inspectors also commended the strength of leadership and governance, noting that leaders are ambitious for pupils’ outcomes and that governors demonstrate a clear understanding of the school’s priorities and future direction. Beyond academic success, the report highlighted the strength of the wider school community. Rooted in the Ribble Valley, Stonyhurst welcomes pupils from more than 37 nationalities. While remaining predominantly British in its make-up, the school provides an environment where young people learn alongside peers from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. Inspectors recognised the positive impact of this diversity, highlighting pupils’ respect for others and their ability to engage thoughtfully with different viewpoints. The school’s boarding provision was also praised, with inspectors describing boarding as: “A vibrant, diverse and inclusive community where pupils learn the value of living together in harmony.” Whether attending as boarders or day pupils, inspectors found that pupils are well cared for and effectively supported throughout their educational journey. This commitment is reflected in Stonyhurst’s aim to form compassionate global citizens. Through opportunities for

service, leadership and charitable engagement, pupils are encouraged to look beyond themselves and engage meaningfully with the world around them. From local community partnerships to social justice projects and links with Jesuit communities in countries such as Mozambique and Zambia, pupils develop a strong sense of service, empathy and responsibility. Safeguarding and wellbeing were also identified as strengths. Inspectors found there to be an embedded culture of safeguarding at the school, praising leaders for promoting a strong whole-school approach to pupil welfare. For families considering independent education, the findings reinforce Stonyhurst’s reputation as a school where academic excellence is balanced by a deep commitment to character formation, wellbeing and personal development. The report paints a picture of a community where pupils are encouraged not only to achieve strong academic outcomes, but also to develop the confidence, compassion and resilience needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Reflecting on the outcome, Mr Doherty emphasised that the report is a testament to the entire school community. “At Stonyhurst, we remain committed

to pursuing excellence with ambition, reflection and a continual desire to grow. This report provides a strong foundation as we look to the future with confidence and continue to build on the outstanding opportunities available to our pupils. “This outcome is testament to our pupils, staff, governors and families who together make Stonyhurst such a remarkable community.” For a school founded in 1593, the inspection findings demonstrate that Stonyhurst’s enduring mission remains as relevant today as ever – helping young people discover their talents, develop their character and leave school ready to make a positive contribution to the world around them. n

Scan to read the full report

Stonyhurst Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073 stonyhurst.ac.uk ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

What makes this curriculum different? “The biggest difference is that we have introduced a broader view of what an excellent education should look like. Our pupils will continue to study rigorous, traditional subjects such as English, Mathematics, the Sciences, History, Geography, Languages and the Arts. These remain the foundation of a first-class education. “Alongside these, we are introducing new elements that reflect the world our students are entering. Politics, Economics and Psychology (PEP) from Year 7 will give pupils a greater understanding of society, decision-making and human behaviour. Dedicated wellbeing lessons will help students develop resilience, emotional literacy and strategies to manage an increasingly complex world.

PREPARING PUPILS FOR TOMORROW Principal Mr Paul Taylor explains how Westholme pupils are being prepared for a changing world, allowing young people to thrive both personally and professionally

the global challenges they will face are evolving faster than ever before. As educators, we have a responsibility not simply to prepare students for examinations, but to prepare them for life.

estholme pupils achieve not only outstanding qualifications, they also develop resilience, character and confidence, leading them into an ever-changing world. School Principal Paul Taylor defines how a developing curriculum can give young people the skills that will take them through life. What is Westholme’s 21st Century Curriculum? Paul Taylor: “The world our young people are growing up in is changing at an extraordinary pace. The careers they will pursue, the technology they will use and

“Our aim is to enable every young person to thrive personally, socially and globally. Academic excellence remains central to everything we do, but success in today’s world also requires adaptability, creativity, critical thinking, emotional intelligence and perhaps above all, the confidence to embrace change. Westholme’s curriculum has been designed to ensure our pupils develop these qualities alongside outstanding academic results.”

OUR AMBITION IS THAT EVERY WESTHOLME PUPIL LEAVES US CONFIDENT, CAPABLE AND READY TO EMBRACE THE OPPORTUNITIES OF AN INCREASINGLY INTERCONNECTED WORLD

“This is not about replacing traditional subjects, it is about strengthening them with knowledge and skills that will be invaluable throughout life.” How will this enhance academic standards? “Academic ambition remains at the heart of Westholme. High expectations, excellent teaching and strong examination outcomes will continue to define our school. “What is changing is how we enrich that academic experience. By broadening the curriculum, encouraging greater curiosity and making stronger connections between subjects, we believe pupils will become even more engaged learners. Academic success and personal development should never be viewed as separate goals – they simply strengthen one another.”

Why is now the right time for this change? “Many of today’s pupils will work in careers that do not yet exist. Artificial intelligence, globalisation, sustainability and rapidlychanging employment markets are transforming the skills employers value. “Independent schools have always had the freedom to innovate and we believe this is the right moment to use that freedom. Rather than waiting for educational reform to happen nationally, we want Westholme pupils to benefit now from a curriculum designed for the future.

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“Our responsibility is to ensure that every child leaves us not only with excellent qualifications, but with the confidence and adaptability to flourish wherever life takes them.” How does that journey begin for students? “It starts from the moment children join us, no matter what age and stage of their academic journey. In the early years and throughout the Prep School, our approach is intentionally nurturing – children are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas, collaborate with others and discover where their individual strengths lie. By the time pupils move into Seniors, they have the skills and self-belief to embrace greater challenge.

How will this benefit students beyond school? “Universities and employers consistently tell us they are looking for much more than examination grades. They want young people who can hold a room, communicate effectively, solve problems creatively, think independently and work collaboratively.

not simply preparing students for their next examination, we are preparing them for their future.” n

“Our curriculum has been carefully designed to develop these qualities every day. Whatever pathways pupils choose, they will leave Westholme equipped with the knowledge, skills and character to succeed. “Perhaps most importantly, we want our students to become thoughtful, compassionate citizens who understand the wider world and recognise the positive contribution they can make within it.”

“Seniors brings greater independence and deeper academic thinking for our students. Alongside studying a broad range of subjects, pupils are encouraged to question, analyse, debate and solve problems. These are skills that sit alongside academic excellence and prepare students for GCSEs, A Levels and beyond. “In the Sixth Form, they are ready to take ownership of their future. Through personalised pathways into areas such as medicine, engineering, business, law, performing arts, creative industries and degree apprenticeships, they begin making informed decisions about university, employment and life beyond school.”

What message would you like parents to take away? “Parents want to know that the education their child receives today will prepare them for tomorrow’s world. That is exactly what this curriculum has been designed to achieve. “Westholme’s 21st Century Curriculum combines the very best of traditional academic education with a forward-thinking approach that reflects the realities of modern life. It gives pupils the opportunity to study diverse subjects while developing the personal qualities that will enable them to flourish long after they leave school. “Education has always been about opening doors. Our ambition is that every Westholme pupil leaves us confident, capable and ready to embrace the opportunities of an increasingly interconnected world. We are

Prep Open House Week

Monday 28 Sept – Friday 2 Oct | 10.00-15.00 Saturday 3 October | 10.00-12.00

Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 8 October | 17.00-19.00

Sixth Form Taster Day

Wednesday 14 October | 08:30 - 16:00

Westholme School Meins Road Blackburn BB2 6QU 01254 506070 westholmeschool.com

rom September 2026, Joel Jackson will begin his new role as headmaster at Ashbridge Independent School, taking over from Karen Mehta who has done an exceptional job shaping the school’s ethos and community. New to the area, Joel, who has taught at one of the most successful prep schools in the country, says he knew instantly that Ashbridge was special. “From the moment I walked through the doors, I felt an unmistakable sense of warmth, belonging and ambition. There was a genuine energy around the school – children were curious, engaged and excited to learn,” he explains. “Every child matters here and that was

obvious from the very first conversations I had. This role is an amazing opportunity and I feel very privileged to continue Mrs Mehta’s fantastic work.” Joel joins Ashbridge after eight years at St Martin’s Prep in Grimsby, where he spent four of them as headmaster. During his time at St Martin’s Prep, pupils achieved some of the strongest academic results nationally,

Lancashire, Joel has taught across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 before moving into headship. As he settles into the area, he’s looking forward to exploring the countryside, walking his dog and discovering local places of interest. But it is Ashbridge itself that has truly driven the move.

Photography: Michael Porter

There’s a new leader bringing warmth, ambition and a deep respect for childhood development to Lancashire’s education landscape, writes Emma Brereton

while benefiting from a broad curriculum rich in sport, music, performance, outdoor learning and leadership opportunities. His career began in London after studying at UCL, where he chose to teach Reception to gain a strong foundation in Early Years. From London to Lincolnshire and now to

FROM LONDON TO LINCOLNSHIRE AND NOW TO LANCASHIRE, JOEL HAS TAUGHT ACROSS KEY STAGE 1 AND 2 BEFORE MOVING INTO HEADSHIP “Ashbridge promotes adventure in education,” Joel says. “Joy, creativity, land based learning aren’t extras. They’re part of who we are.” Joel believes passionately that academic excellence and a rich, joyful childhood are not competing priorities but complementary ones. “We refuse to choose between adventure and academic excellence. Our pupils can have it all.”

Photography: Michael Porter

A PASSION FOR CHILDHOOD, A VISION FOR EXCELLENCE

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Joel’s educational philosophy aligns seamlessly with Ashbridge’s ethos of respect, nurture and joyful learning. Outdoor learning is not an occasional treat; it is woven into everyday life. Pupils spend time in the forest, learn through nature, care for animals and

WE REFUSE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN ADVENTURE AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE. OUR PUPILS CAN HAVE IT ALL

Joel is committed to being a visible, approachable headmaster who builds robust partnerships with families. The school’s parent community, transition support and welcoming culture create the best foundation for working closely with families. “Genuine parent partnerships are essential,” he says. “We want every family to feel part of something special and know their child is being individually nurtured whilst they’re with us.” The setting itself also plays a powerful role. With its beautiful grounds, woodland, gardens and BHS Garden, the school offers an environment that is both inspiring and wonderfully unique. “I am looking forward to giving this role my all,” he says. “At Ashbridge, pupils will receive an outstanding education, resulting in an extraordinary childhood and the confidence and character to make a positive difference in the world. They leave us as

Photography: Michael Porter

embrace creativity in all its forms. The school’s land based education includes caring for miniature ponies, goats, guinea pigs and even an aviary, with a school dog soon joining the family. It’s an environment that encourages curiosity, confidence and resilience. One of the standout moments of Joel’s interview process was being questioned by the pupils themselves. “The children actually interviewed me,” he says. “That approach to collaborative education really stood out to me. It was a great part of the recruitment process and I want to ensure their voices shape the next steps we take together.”

strongminded leaders, critical thinkers and globally minded citizens.” As he begins this new chapter, Joel is focused on listening, learning and building on the school’s already exceptional foundations. “The next steps will be shaped by the voices of our pupils,” he says. “Every decision we make should improve the experience of the children in our care. If we continue to listen, challenge and believe in them, there’s no

limit to what they can achieve. They are at the heart of everything we do.” n An Open Week takes place from Monday 5th October, but visitors are welcome any time. For more information and to book an appointment visit the website.

Ashbridge Independent School and Nursery Lindle Lane, Hutton Preston PR4 4AQ 01772 619900 school@ashbridgeschool.co.uk nursery@ashbridgeschool.co.uk ashbridgeschool.co.uk ashbridgeschoolandnursery

OPEN

EVENTS

EXPERIENCE BLACKBURN COLLEGE

Choose the one for you and we’ll see you there

For more information scan here

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education

BUILDING CONFIDENCE

THROUGH MATHS Qualified teacher Joanne Adams is helping children build confidence in maths through Happy Hedgehog Learning, with expert tuition, 11-plus preparation and a new online Year 6 Maths Club this September. Photography: Michael Porter

With more than 20 years of experience in primary education and over a decade as a private tutor, Joanne's knowledge has given her a deep understanding of the challenges children face both inside and outside the classroom. Happy Hedgehog Learning supports children aged seven to 11 through a range of services, including one-to-one tuition, small group sessions, online learning programmes, workbooks and home-learning resources. The focus is on helping children develop strong mathematical foundations, whether they need support catching up, building confidence or preparing for SATs and 11-plus entrance exams. Earlier this year, Joanne was shortlisted for Primary Tutor of the Year at the National Tutoring Awards, recognising her commitment to helping children build confidence and strong mathematical foundations. Children come to her for many different reasons, from rebuilding confidence in maths to preparing for grammar school entrance exams.

Joanne explains: "I see too many children who have lost confidence because the curriculum moves so quickly.

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"Whether they follow the weekly pathway or dip into the lesson library whenever they need help with a particular topic, it’s there to build confidence and understanding." The membership includes short, step-bystep video lessons, printable worksheets and SATs-style questions that families can access from home. Alongside the new club, Joanne also runs a 14-week online verbal reasoning programme for pupils preparing for the 11-plus, while continuing to develop workbooks, blogs and resources to support parents at home. What began 11 years ago as a few tutoring sessions has grown into a thriving educational business. For Joanne, however, the mission remains the same. "It's not about ability. Every child has a talent and something valuable to offer. My job is to help them build the confidence to believe they can succeed."

And that confidence, she says, can make all the difference. "Children who believe in themselves are far more likely to embrace challenge and achieve their potential. That's what Happy Hedgehog Learning is all about." n If they don't quite grasp one concept before the class moves on, those gaps can get wider and wider." Rather than focusing purely on test results, Joanne believes in building genuine understanding. "My philosophy is to help children build strong foundations in maths for high school and for life," she explains. "There's no point cramming for a test if children don't truly understand what they're doing." This commitment to accessible learning has inspired the launch of a new online Year 6 Maths Club this September. "The club is designed to be a flexible, affordable way for families to access support," says Joanne.

FREE YEAR 6 PARENTS’ GUIDE Discover what your child will learn in Year 6 Maths and how you can support them at home.

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happyhedgehoglearning.co.uk enquiries@happyhedgehoglearning.co.uk @happyhedgehoglearning

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Another key difference is the freedom to recommend the most appropriate technology rather than products from a single manufacturer.

When Simon Bland first opened the doors to a business almost a decade ago, his long-held ambition to create something he felt had been missing within the hearing care industry throughout his own career was realised, writes Katie Hammond. Photography: Michael Porter

imon’s vision for Hearing-Check was, and remains, an independent audiology practice where patients always come first.

alongside co-founder Ged Rowbottom, with Simon heading up the Lancashire-based locations – Preston Hearing Care Centre and Hearing-Check @ The Lytham Clinic.

Today, that philosophy has helped establish Hearing-Check as one of Lancashire’s most trusted independent hearing care specialists, with a loyal patient base which stretches far beyond the county of its roots.

He continues: “Within the first year we’d far exceeded all our initial expectations for the business. We’ve now been established for almost 10 years and local people know who we are – healthcare professionals trust us and our reputation has been built through the experience people have when they visit for a consultation. Our Google reviews alone really speak for themselves.”

“My career started almost by accident,” Simon admits. “I qualified with Scrivens, but like many of the large national companies, you’re restricted to fitting what the manufacturers supply. There’s no flexibility to advise on a tailored solution for a patient’s specific and individual needs.” After leaving to join an independent practice, Simon found himself back in a corporate environment, with the business subsequently acquired by national chain, Boots. “Those were probably the most frustrating two years of my career,” he says. “But it did help to reinforce everything I valued about independent hearing care.”

WITHIN THE FIRST YEAR WE’D FAR EXCEEDED ALL OUR INITIAL EXPECTATIONS FOR THE BUSINESS. LOCAL PEOPLE NOW KNOW WHO WE ARE AND HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS TRUST US AND OUR REPUTATION Determined to do things differently, Simon spent several years building successful practices before returning closer to home to work with an independent group of opticians in Preston and Lytham. Then, in 2017, he took the leap and started Hearing-Check,

Whilst the business now has consulting rooms in Elland, Sowerby Bridge and Lytham, Preston remains the heart of the business and is home to all operations, administration and clinical support. What started with just Simon, fellow audiologists Nick and Ged plus one team member, Saminah, has grown into a highly experienced team who pride themselves on delivering exceptional patient care. “We’ve got an amazing team, including fully qualified audiologists who are permanently based here,” Simon says. “It’s important to have specialist audiologists on site, so patients can speak to someone with genuine expertise whenever they need advice.” That, he believes, is one of the biggest differences between independent hearing care providers and many national chains. “In a lot of the larger retailers, the reception staff are hearing care or store assistants, rather than qualified specialists,” he says. “They’re doing a great job, but they simply don’t have the same level of clinical knowledge. Here, patients always have direct access to experienced professionals whenever they visit.”

Simon explains: “We’re completely independent, so we work with the leading manufacturers and only fit the very best hearing technology available. We don’t offer entry-level products because that’s not why people come to us. They come because they want the best possible solution for their hearing issues.” Although Hearing-Check remains competitively priced, Simon says the business has never tried to compete solely on cost.

WE DON’T OFFER ENTRY-LEVEL PRODUCTS BECAUSE THAT’S NOT WHY PEOPLE COME TO US. THEY COME BECAUSE THEY WANT THE BEST POSSIBLE SOLUTION FOR THEIR HEARING ISSUES “There’s a well-known quote that says: ‘People don’t always remember what you do. People don’t always remember what you say – but people always remember how you made them feel.’ That’s always stayed with me and it’s how we want every patient experience to be with us.” Rather than expanding rapidly, Hearing-Check has focused on growing its reputation – an approach that has proved successful, with an ever-increasing base of satisfied patients. The practice now attracts patients from as far afield as Scotland, Cumbria, Greater Manchester and Cheshire, with many travelling significant distances specifically for the team’s expertise and personalised approach. Looking ahead, Simon says there may be opportunities to expand further into Yorkshire and Lancashire, but only on the proviso that they are able to maintain the standards that have underpinned the business from day one. For the father-of-one and proud grandfather, success isn’t measured simply by growth. “For me, it’s always been about looking after people properly,” he says. “If we continue doing that with the fantastic team we’ve built here, everything else will take care of itself.” n

hearingcheck.co.uk

business

BUSINESS MATTERS

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The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Preston and Fylde, where business always matters If you have any Business Matters news items contact: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

INVESTING IN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Preston-based Rustic Tubs is investing in digital technology to boost productivity and growth with support from Made Smarter North West. The handmade wooden hot tub and plunge pool manufacturer secured a £4,000 grant towards an £8,000 investment in a Creality K2 Plus Combo 3D printer and Autodesk Fusion 360 software. The project is expected to create one new job and upskill two existing roles. Founder Andy Walsh said the technology will help streamline product development and improve manufacturing processes.

INNOVATION HUB APPROVED Planning approval has been secured for the £13.2 million Samlesbury Innovation Hub. The development at Samlesbury Enterprise Zone will provide up to 30,000 sq ft of flexible workspace, meeting facilities and collaboration space for businesses working across aerospace, defence, advanced manufacturing, engineering, cyber and technology. The building will become a focal point for collaboration between businesses, universities and research organisations, helping companies develop new products and services, strengthen supply chains, to innovate and bring new ideas to market.

20,000 BACK BLACKPOOL’S CULTURE BID Blackpool has officially submitted its bid for UK City of Culture 2029, backed by more than 20,000 supporters. If successful, the resort would receive £10m from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, alongside additional funding, sponsorship and investment to support regeneration and cultural events. The bid has attracted widespread support from artists, businesses, performers and political leaders, with high-profile endorsements from celebrities including Chris Lowe, John Robb, Jordan Wylie, Sooty, Stephen Mulhern, Toyah Wilcox, Frank Cottrell-Boyce and Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen.

THE LANCASHIRE BOOT LANX has unveiled AXIS, a new boot collection designed to bridge the gap between formal and outdoor footwear. Crafted in Lancashire, the range combines heritage styling with modern versatility, fitting seamlessly into everyday life from the office and school run to weekend walks and the local pub. The AXIS collection celebrates the county’s long-standing footwear-making tradition, showcasing local craftsmanship and the Lancashire community that continues to inspire the brand.

UK-FIRST AI SHOPPING TROLLEY TRIAL Morrisons is trialling AI-powered shopping trolleys at its Riversway store in Preston, the first such test in the UK. Developed with retail technology firm Instacart, the “Caper Carts” use cameras, sensors and built-in scales to automatically identify products as shoppers add them to their basket. Customers can track spending in real time via a touchscreen and complete checkout more quickly by scanning a barcode generated by the trolley. Morrisons is using the Preston pilot to assess customer feedback ahead of any wider rollout.

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HOW HARD IS YOUR COMPANY’S CASH WORKING?

he team at Raymond James, Ribble Valley has seen an upsurge in business owners wanting their balance sheet assets to be more productive.

Branch principal Wayne Hayhurst explains: “Many business owners hold significant cash reserves within their company for good reasons – future growth plans, acquisitions, tax liabilities, or simply as a financial safety net. However, once those immediate needs are covered, excess cash can often sit in deposit accounts generating taxable interest and delivering limited long-term value. Cash held for long periods can lose real value, particularly when interest rates fail to keep pace with rising costs. Investing appropriate surplus capital can help businesses preserve and potentially grow the value of their reserves over the longer term.” Head of Financial Planning, Connor Almond, adds his experience: “These business owners are also looking for tax efficiency through their entire operation – the tax paid on deposit interest is seen by them as inefficient.” One often-overlooked solution is investing surplus company funds into UK dividendpaying investments that generate Franked Investment Income (FII). Franked Investment Income refers to dividends paid by companies that have already paid corporate tax on their profits. A key benefit of FII is that qualifying dividends received by a UK company from another UK company are generally exempt from Corporation Tax. This means that, unlike interest earned on cash deposits, dividend income can potentially be received without an additional Corporation Tax charge, making it a highly efficient source of income for many businesses. Wayne continues: “FII may be worth exploring if your business holds significant surplus cash reserves that are not required in the near term. FII gives the potential for tax-efficient dividend income, long-term capital growth and diversification beyond cash deposits. For

Business owners – do you have surplus cash on your balance sheet? Have you invested this asset wisely? Is a deposit account the best home for your hard-earned profits? Want to minimise your tax bill? companies holding substantial surplus cash, the difference between leaving funds idle and investing strategically can be significant over time.”

Assets

Balance Sheet December 31, 2025

Cash

392,000

Debtors

128,000

Stock

120,000

Land

300,000

Building

100,000

Equipment

50,000

Other assets

10,000

1,100,000

Total assets

balance sheet. FII can provide a powerful combination of tax efficiency, income generation and long-term growth potential, helping business owners turn surplus company cash into a long-term wealth engine.”

Liabilities Salaries payable

34,000

Trade creditors

166,000

200,000

Capital

220,000

Total liabilities Stockholders’ equity Retained earnings

680,000

Total stockholders’ equity

900,000

Total liabilities and equity

1,100,000

Developing the concept further, Connor adds: “FII isn’t just for business owners, those with or setting up a Family Investment Company (FIC) can also benefit. FICs can be used as a method to manage family wealth, tax efficiently, whilst keeping control of assets. A FIC is a privately owned company which holds investments rather than doing any kind of trading business. Shares in FICs can be gifted to family members so that should the donor survive seven years after the gift, the value of their estate would be reduced for IHT purposes. By adding cash to a FIC and using FII, growth of the assets in the FIC can be very tax efficient.” Wayne concludes: “There is a hidden opportunity in your company’s surplus cash. Too many companies focus solely on generating profits while overlooking the potential of the cash already sitting on their

THERE IS A HIDDEN OPPORTUNITY IN YOUR COMPANY’S SURPLUS CASH If you would like to discuss the opportunities presented by Franked Investment Income and Family Investment Companies, please do not hesitate to book an appointment with the Longridge-based team. A warm welcome awaits. n Risk warning: This article is intended for informational purposes only and no action should be taken or refrained from being taken as a consequence without consulting a suitably qualified and regulated person. With investment, your capital is at risk. Tax treatment depends on an investor’s individual circumstances and may be subject to change.

Raymond James Investment Services Limited 8 Berry Lane, Longridge PR3 3JA 01772 780300 ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

opportunities to help event organisers reach audiences more effectively. A quarter of a century later, that entrepreneurial spirit remains intact. Despite becoming a nationally recognised brand, Skiddle has remained firmly rooted in Lancashire. Its headquarters are based in Longridge and the company continues to champion the region that inspired its creation. When Skiddle launched, social media didn’t exist in the form we know today – smartphones were years away and online ticket purchasing was still a novelty. Richard remembers a very different digital landscape.

THE TICKET TO SUCCESS Built in Preston and grown in Lancashire, Skiddle has spent 25 years helping millions discover live experiences while proving that regional businesses can achieve national success

ounded in 2001 by Richard Dyer and Ben Sebborn, then a student at UCLan, Skiddle began life as a simple online guide to local events. Twenty-five years on, Skiddle has grown from a simple online events guide into one of the UK’s leading event discovery and ticketing platforms, used by millions and trusted by thousands of organisers nationwide. In the process, it has become a flagship success story for Lancashire’s digital economy, pairing national influence with a strong commitment to its local roots. “We were going out lots from our bases of Preston and Carlisle and thought there should be a better way to find out what was happening,” Richard recalls. “So, we built one.” There was no grand business plan. No carefully mapped-out route to national success. As Richard describes it, Skiddle was “a college project turned hobby, turned business.” Yet what began as a local events guide quickly tapped into a growing demand. As internet use expanded, so did the

AS INTERNET USE EXPANDED, SO DID THE OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP EVENT ORGANISERS REACH AUDIENCES MORE EFFECTIVELY “When we started, going on the internet was an activity. You went and sat at a computer to do it. Now you can find an event, buy a ticket and arrange who’s coming without getting off the sofa.” Recognising the shift early proved crucial. Over the following two decades, Skiddle evolved from a local events website into a comprehensive ticketing and event discovery platform serving festivals, concerts, club nights, comedy shows and cultural experiences across the UK. Today, the platform features more than 150,000 events, works with over 21,000 event promoters and supports events at more than 10,000 venues nationwide. From grassroots club nights to internationally renowned festivals such as Creamfields, its reach reflects remarkable growth from those Preston beginnings. Yet technology has never been the whole story. “There can be a danger of getting so excited about the technology that you forget the service,” says Richard. “A promoter with a problem just before the doors open doesn’t want to admire your software. They want someone to help sort it out.” That focus on customer relationships has become one of the company’s defining characteristics. Few sectors have experienced more disruption over the past 25 years than the live events industry. Economic downturns, changing consumer habits and evolving technology have all presented challenges. Then came Covid-19.

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For a business built around people gathering together, the pandemic represented an unprecedented test. “You’ve built an entire business around people getting together and suddenly that’s the one thing nobody is allowed to do,” Richard says. Like countless businesses across the country, Skiddle faced uncertainty. Revenues fell dramatically while support requests, cancellations and refund management surged. But rather than retreat, the company focused on supporting organisers, customers and staff through one of the most challenging periods in the industry’s history. The experience reinforced an important lesson about entrepreneurship.

SKIDDLE’S GROWTH STORY IS ABOUT MORE THAN COMMERCIAL SUCCESS. IT IS ALSO A POWERFUL EXAMPLE OF WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED WHEN LOCAL TALENT IS NURTURED AND SUPPORTED “When you have a business, it’s not just you and your business partner having a bad week,” Richard reflects. “There are people’s jobs involved and other businesses relying on you.” Emerging stronger from that period remains one of the company’s proudest achievements. Skiddle’s growth story is about more than commercial success. It is also a powerful example of what can be achieved when local talent is nurtured and supported. Today the company employs around 100 people and contributes to Lancashire’s growing digital economy, providing skilled jobs and demonstrating that technology businesses can thrive outside traditional city-centre ecosystems. Its founders have remained active advocates for regional entrepreneurship, regularly sharing their experiences with the next generation of business owners and innovators. Their message is refreshingly straightforward. “Don’t get so caught up in running the business that you forget why anyone uses it,” Richard says. “Stay close enough to hear what customers are telling you.” For aspiring entrepreneurs, it is advice born from experience rather than theory. As Skiddle enters its next chapter, growth remains firmly on the agenda. Opportunities in comedy, attractions, family events and

immersive experiences are all areas the business continues to explore, alongside ongoing investment in technology that helps organisers reach new audiences and manage events more efficiently. Richard believes discovery will play an increasingly important role. “There’s a real opportunity to help people find things they’ll love but wouldn’t have known to search for,” he says. For Preston, however, perhaps the bigger story is what Skiddle already represents.

From a student project launched by two friends to one of the UK’s most trusted event platforms, its journey encapsulates the ambition, resilience and innovation increasingly associated with Lancashire’s business community. And if its first quarter-century is anything to go by, the next chapter promises to be every bit as exciting. n

skiddle.com

WE BUILD EXCEPTIONAL SPACES A.R.N Projects is your trusted construction partner delivering residential and commercial projects across a range of sectors in and around the Fylde Coast and Lancashire.

01253 542 223

From shell and core construction to complete turnkey solutions, we combine technical expertise, quality craftsmanship, and meticulous project management to bring every vision to life. Driven by professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail, we manage every stage of the construction process, ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on time, and to the highest standard.

enquiries@arnprojects.co.uk

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raise finance for the acquisition of new dairy or beef cattle. Newly appointed Managing Director, Ben Smith, who joined the business in May after a 20-year career in corporate finance comments: “We understand that the farming sector dynamics can make access to funding difficult through mainstream routes, but many of these farms go back multiple generations and have successfully weathered all manner of challenges over their history. With our own history and understanding of the sector we have tried to develop a range of products to support their cash flow.”

STANDING SHOULDER TO SHOULDER WITH FARMERS Family-owned Kingsley Asset Finance has a deep understanding of the farming sector, providing financing solutions that help farmers grow their business in challenging environments

he agricultural industry has traditionally been an unpredictable sector, often characterised by tight margins and the constant need for capital investment. These structural characteristics have been exacerbated by recent events such as the far-reaching changes to Inheritance Tax legislation and a particularly hot summer, impacting crop yields and livestock welfare. Family-owned Kingsley Asset Finance understand these pressures as the farming world is a core part of our heritage. Independent finance provider Kingsley was founded over 30 years ago by father and son team Fred and Jonathan Smith, who came from a dairy farming background located on the outskirts of Chorley. Kingsley was formed with a simple mission – to provide businesses with financial support in a straight-forward, relationship-based and pragmatic way. With a deep understanding of the sector, Kingsley has a long tradition of supporting the sector with financing solutions to assist farmers across Lancashire and the UK invest and grow their businesses even in the most challenging of environments.

Kingsley has provided substantial financial backing to farmers through its hire purchase and lease products allowing clients to spread the cost of core capital investments via fixed monthly payments, helping these businesses to run and grow without unnecessary strains

FARMERS DESERVE FUNDING PARTNERS THAT UNDERSTAND THEIR NEEDS AND WANT TO HELP THEM THRIVE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME on cashflow. Refinance is another option which allows farmers to release equity they hold in existing assets. Always looking forward, Kingsley has now created an innovative financing product which allows farmers to

As an independent finance provider Kingsley, through its experienced team of underwriters, takes time to look over each financing application to understand the full picture. They will speak directly to the customer to understand the background of the business, the funding requirements and future plans to ensure the solutions they provide are the right fit. The Kingsley team know that the on-paper financials are rarely the full story. Chairman Jonathan Smith adds: “Kingsley Asset Finance are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the farming community. We firmly believe agriculture is vital to the upkeep of the countryside, UK food-security and the broader economy. Farmers deserve funding partners that understand their needs and want to help them thrive for generations to come.” n

Kingsley Asset Finance Crosses Farm Shaw Brow, Whittle-le-Woods Chorley PR6 7HG 01257 232224 contact@kingsleyaf.co.uk kingsleyassetfinance.co.uk

MINI IS STILL MEGA… Paul Agnew traces the history of the iconic MINI which has stayed true to its origins, losing none of its renowned fun, go-kart feel

orn in 1959 and yet celebrating a 25th birthday this year? Now there’s a little conundrum to test your grey matter – or maybe we should term it a mini conundrum. For the iconic motoring brand, which first hit the streets 67 years ago as a Mini, was re-styled and re-launched in 2001 as a MINI under the stewardship of BMW. And this anniversary of the MINI – those of a theatrical nature might say ‘Thoroughly Modern MINI’ – is particularly significant for one of the North West’s most prestigious motor retailers. Bowker Motor Group was among the first to be awarded a MINI franchise in the UK, later going on to establish stand-alone MINI facilities aside from its main BMW showrooms. From its impressive headquarters on Preston Docklands, the Bowker Motor Group has played a full part in the continuing success of one of the most popular, successful and quirky vehicles to ever grace our roads. Chris Eccles, who has been right at the heart of the Bowker Motor Group operation

throughout the past quarter century, knows the story better than most. “We first took delivery of the new MINI at our Accrington and Preston showrooms in the summer of 2001 and customers flocked in to have a look and take a test drive. It was clear that the new vehicle, although chunkier and taller in appearance, was unmistakably

a MINI in terms of innovation and design. “BMW made a wise decision to stay true to the character of the original and its renowned go-kart feel, while adding modern technology, premium quality and a new distinctive design. Basically, it lost nothing of its fun feeling and general appeal to motorists of all ages.”

THE SUMMER OF 2001 MARKED THE START OF A NEW CHAPTER FOR A CAR THAT ALREADY HELD A UNIQUE PLACE IN BRITISH LIFE Back then, the three variants were the MINI One, the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S and you could drive one away for as little as £10,300. “We recognised demand and acted accordingly by building dedicated MINI showrooms,” added Chris, now the company’s Managing Director. “There are other members of staff here who have also been involved from the outset and to whom the MINI means so much. “The public’s love of the brand remains as strong and loyal as ever and I firmly believe that whatever lies ahead in the

motors

motoring world, there will always be a place for the MINI.” So, perhaps this an opportune moment to look at some facts and reasons behind the ongoing success of MINI. The summer of 2001 marked the start of a new chapter for a car that already held a unique place in British life and modern MINI production has evolved across four model generations, spanning a range of body styles including the original 3-door, 5-door, Roadster, Coupe, Clubman, Clubvan and Convertible. A total of close on 5,000,000 have been built in Britain since 2001 and if they lined up bumper-to-bumper it would stretch a distance between Preston and Sydney! Every MINI made in Britain is distributed to more than 100 markets worldwide and at the main plant in Oxford, a MINI drives off the production line every 78 seconds. The fastest factory-produced MINI (by top speed) is the MINI John Cooper Works GP (2020) at 164mph. MINIs built in the UK have been exported to over 100 countries, with some 95 different body colours from British Racing Green to Chili Red and Sunny Side Yellow. Around 20,000,000 seats have been installed – the equivalent of 221 Wembley Stadiums – and 40,000,000 metres of tyre rubber used (97 per cent of the earth’s circumference). Interestingly from a local point of view, the original two-door Mini (officially the Morris Mini Minor) was a line of British small cars manufactured by the British Motor Corporation, later part of British

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most influential car of the 20th Century behind the Ford Model T. Everyone reading this will have probably owned, known an owner or been a passenger in a MINI at some stage and therein lies the secret to its success. Many happy returns! n

A TOTAL OF CLOSE ON 5,000,000 HAVE BEEN BUILT IN BRITAIN SINCE 2001 AND IF THEY LINED UP BUMPER-TOBUMPER IT WOULD STRETCH A DISTANCE BETWEEN PRESTON AND SYDNEY! Motor Holdings which eventually merged with Leyland Motors in 1968 to form British Leyland. In 1999 the Mini was voted the second

Bowker Preston Channel Way Preston PR2 2YA 01772 761234 bowkerprestonmini.co.uk @BowkerMINI @bowker_mini @bowker-motor-group @bowker.mini

ELECTRIFYING PERFORMANCE… Paul Agnew takes a look at the Porsche Cayenne Electric and discovers a motoring experience that combines astonishing power with exceptional luxury. Photography: Peter Austin

ometimes, someone, somewhere produces something to truly blow your socks off. In the ultracompetitive world of motor cars, there is a rich history of major manufacturers striving to do precisely that. Essentially, to develop a bespoke vehicle so super-special, that sees rival manufacturers simply throw up their hands, bow in adulation and admit defeat. Porsche has achieved this feat a multitude of times and, boy oh boy, they’ve only gone and done it again. Big time. For the Porsche Cayenne Electric is not just a performance machine of preposterous power, it is also one of eye-watering elegance and outstanding luxury.

You can choose from three model variants, Cayenne Electric, Cayenne Electric S and Cayenne Turbo Electric. All can be either Coupe or SUV. Of course, everything rests on personal preferences (and budget) but if ‘performance’ is your main or only driver then it’s got to be the Turbo, which can move from 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds – using launch control.

IF ‘PERFORMANCE’ IS YOUR MAIN OR ONLY DRIVER THEN IT’S GOT TO BE THE TURBO, WHICH CAN MOVE FROM 0-62MPH IN 2.5 SECONDS

I repeat: it can move from 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds. To put into some sort of perspective, that’s about as long as it takes to read that sentence. Astonishing. Such blistering power and a top speed of 162mph is achieved through a staggering output of up to 1,156hp. But if you are beginning to fret about the effect of all this speed and power on the all-important matter of range, then don’t bother. You can expect up to 410 miles – another remarkable statistic attributed to what is undoubtedly one of the star motoring turns of 2026. Fast charging is another plus, an 113 kWh battery and 800-volt architecture supporting up to 400 kW DC ‘top-up’ of 10-80 per cent in just 16 minutes. The Turbo variant, featured in the photos supporting this piece, has extras like Porsche crests on headrests, Black/Bordeaux red leather interior and 21-inch Sport Aero wheels. Talking of Aero, you’ll also find Porsche Active Aero Wings on the lower rear imprinted with ‘48 51’05.7 N, 8 53’50.2E’ which are the co-ordinates of the wind tunnel at Weissach in Germany where the car was developed. The Aero Wings add to the aerodynamic capability. But you don’t have to go Turbo to fully enjoy or appreciate the Cayenne Electric experience – even the standard model offers

motors all-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, 781 litres of luggage capacity, two electric charging points on each side, an eight-year high-voltage battery guarantee – the list goes on. Internally it is little short of superb, but one particular highlight is the unique curved OLEG display – the largest of its kind ever installed in a Porsche. It features a striking folded/curved central interface and optional passenger information screen. Another first, sees the introduction of armrest and door panel heating to maximize cold-weather efficiency.

IF YOU ARE SEEKING AN EV WHICH PROVIDES THE BEST OF EVERYTHING – WELL, YOU’VE JUST FOUND IT But when it comes to Porsche you can talk all you like about the look, the styling, the tech, the power, but one thing matters above all else and that’s the way it drives. The Cayenne Electric doesn’t disappoint in any way. It manages to be both comfortable and forgiving over the worst bumps while handling like a top-end sports car around the corners. A substantial car, but one which hides its weight incredibly well. There is a very interesting item available on YouTube, which is well worth a look, where the Porsche Cayenne Electric is pitched against the Lamborghini Urus and the Ferrari Purosangue in a sprint race over a quarter of a mile. The drivers, all from a much-respected motor website/magazine, are left gasping in awe as the Porsche Cayenne Electric not only triumphs but does so with ease and more than a second to spare! I rest my case. As for a summary? Straightforward. If you are seeking an EV which provides the best of everything – well, you’ve just found it. n

Porsche Centre Preston Centenary House Watery Lane Preston PR2 1QJ 01772 911911 porschepreston.co.uk @PorscheCentrePreston @Porsche_Preston @PorschePreston

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A RACING LIFE At Greystoke, on the edge of the Cumbrian fells, racehorse trainer Nicky Richards is continuing a family tradition stretching back almost 60 years. Ben Hopkins visits the yard to discover a world of horses, friendship and racing

ntering the spacious kitchen of Nicky Richards’ country home the welcome is immediate and informal. “You found us easy enough, then?” he asks before putting the kettle on. In front of him the papers are open on the racing pages while on the wall framed pictures tell a story of great champions and memorable moments. Greystoke has been home for most of

Nicky’s life. His father, the celebrated National Hunt trainer Gordon W Richards, began as a jockey before a broken neck at Perth brought his riding career to an abrupt end. After establishing a riding school in Northumberland, Gordon moved the family to Greystoke in 1967. “I was ten or eleven,” Nicky remembers. “This place has been my home ever since.” As a boy, Nicky imagined becoming a

jockey himself before nature intervened. “I was too big. It wasn’t going to be. I won my first race at 15, but it only lasted a couple years.”

IN SOME CASES YOU CAN JOIN A SYNDICATE FOR AS LITTLE AS £10. IT MAY ONLY BUY YOU A HAIR ON A HORSE’S TAIL BUT AT LEAST YOU CAN SAY YOU’RE A PART OF IT Instead, he worked alongside his father and, following Gordon’s death 29 years ago, took over the licence and continued a remarkable family-racing story. His father trained more than 2,300 winners. Nicky has now passed the 1,000 mark himself. Looking ahead, his daughter and assistant trainer, Joey, is set to take up the role of

sport

changes through the decades: Nutrition, interval training, artificial surfaces are to name a few but what really fuels Nicky’s love for national hunt goes beyond technical advancements to the timeless value of friendships and relationships with the people involved – from stable hands to owners. When describing his relationship with horse owners his enthusiasm is almost contagious. “To start with you’re on a business footing, then you get a trust, then you become friends,” he says, warming to his theme. “And that’s a brilliant thing – they’re not just owners, they’re friends. You take victory together, you win together, you lose together, the emotions are up and down. You learn to win but you’ve got to learn to lose, take positives out of losing and move on.”

head trainer when the time is right. With that kind of pedigree, I half expect the world of racehorse ownership to be an exclusive one. Nicky is quick to dispel the idea. “Some people think it’s all a bit secret but it’s not secret at all. It’s an approachable world.” There are around 60 to 70 horses at Greystoke, with approximately 50 racing during a typical year. Nicky is in no hurry to send them out before they are ready and his training methods remain deliberately traditional – grass, hills, patience and an instinctive understanding of the horse. The team of stable hands, staff and riders come from all corners of the British Isles and beyond. “They’re family,” says Nicky. “Everyone is welcome to come in here, put the kettle on and make themselves at home. I think most trainers have that approach. If not, you’re in the wrong business.” The sport of horse racing has seen many

One of the biggest changes in horse ownership over the past ten years has been the growth of racing syndicates. Rather than needing the resources to own a racehorse outright, an increasing number of people can now buy a share in one and experience many of the same thrills. “Syndicates mean a working man can have part ownership of a horse,” Nicky explains. “It’s a way into the sport, a way to get a feel for it. You can have as much fun as an owner.”

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He points to Fine Claret syndicate, which has interests in several horses. “In some cases you can join a syndicate for as little as £10. It may only buy you a hair on a horse’s tail but at least you can say you’re a part of it.” The rewards of an owner’s reaction to success, be they part owners from a syndicate or an individual owner, clearly make all the decades of hard work and commitment worth it, not just for Nicky but for all the riders, stable hands and staff involved.

THIS IS A WONDERFUL SPORT. IT’S FOR EVERYBODY. OWNERSHIP AS WELL. THE SPORT IS FOR EVERYBODY Nicky highlights an owner from Carlisle whose horse had just won for the first time. While everyone else headed towards the winner’s enclosure, he remained alone in the grandstand, tears running down his face. “His wife said, ‘Just leave him there, Nicky.’ He was just soaking it up. It was very personal for him. Brilliant, just brilliant.” Other winners, Nicky laughs, jump up and down and cannot get the champagne open quickly enough. “This is a wonderful sport,” he says. “It’s for everybody. Ownership as well. The sport is for everybody.” Back in the kitchen, with racing photographs on the walls and another working morning unfolding outside, you rather believe him. n

nickyrichardsracing.com

The Fylde College, he returned to the family business, immersing himself in every aspect of hotel operations. From front-of-house duties to management responsibilities, he developed an understanding of how successful hospitality businesses are built. His education continued when his father took over catering operations at Blackpool Football Club. The work quickly expanded beyond match days, with the team delivering events at racecourses, awards ceremonies and corporate functions across Lancashire.

A COURSE SET FOR HOSPITALITY A passion for hospitality, a taste for adventure and a determination to succeed have shaped Oscar Rowley’s remarkable career journey

orn in Blackpool and raised around the family-run Lindum Hotel in St Annes, some of his earliest memories are of bustling kitchens, busy dining rooms and the excitement that comes with looking after guests. Hospitality has been woven into the Rowley family for generations. Oscar’s grandfather, Peter Rowley, laid the foundations when he purchased the Lindum Hotel in the years following the Second World War, establishing

a business that would become a familiar part of St Annes life. His father, Paul Rowley, built on that legacy, earning a respected reputation across the Fylde Coast hospitality industry through decades spent delivering memorable food, events and customer service. Growing up surrounded by both men, Oscar was immersed in the trade from an early age. “I grew up running around the kitchens wearing a little chef’s hat and watching the chefs prepare gala dinners,” he recalls. “Looking back, I don’t think I ever stood a chance of doing anything else.” While many people discover their career path later in life, Oscar’s seemed mapped out from an early age. Even at school, it was the subjects with a practical or creative element that captured his interest. After studying Business at Blackpool and

I GREW UP RUNNING AROUND THE KITCHENS WEARING A LITTLE CHEF’S HAT AND WATCHING THE CHEFS PREPARE GALA DINNERS “That was where I started to understand business, not just catering,” Oscar explains. “Being around entrepreneurs and business leaders taught me a huge amount.” Then came 2020. Like so many businesses connected to the events industry, everything changed almost overnight. With the pandemic bringing hospitality and events to a standstill, Oscar suddenly found himself at a crossroads. “When Covid hit, the events industry disappeared overnight,” he says. “I had debts, no work and one opportunity to completely change my life.” Determined to create a fresh start, he packed his bags and moved alone to the South of France in search of opportunities in the superyacht industry. It was a leap of faith that required resilience, humility and plenty of hard work.

food&drink

His first break came in the most unlikely circumstances. “I just worked hard,” he says. “Someone noticed and introduced me to a captain.” Within weeks of arriving, Oscar had secured a position aboard an 82-metre superyacht working for the Saudi Royal Family. The experience opened doors to a world far removed from the Fylde Coast.

to refine and strengthen the business. “We redesigned the brand, simplified the menu, invested in better products and focused on doing fewer things exceptionally well,” he says. That philosophy has helped shape the business’s recent success. Signature baguettes, rotisserie chicken, homemade soups and a fresh salad bar have become customer favourites, while a growing corporate catering arm now serves businesses across the Fylde Coast, including Porsche and other major local employers.

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selling out annually, while plans are underway to expand with a second deli in St Annes. Despite the awards and growth, Oscar remains clear about what matters most. “The food always comes first, but without a great team none of this happens.”

THE FOOD ALWAYS COMES FIRST, BUT WITHOUT A GREAT TEAM NONE OF THIS HAPPENS

Over the following years he lived and worked in destinations including Antibes, Split, Sardinia, Miami and the Bahamas, progressing through the ranks and eventually qualifying as a Yachtmaster, which led to becoming First Mate. Yet despite the glamour, travel and financial rewards, something was missing. “I realised you can earn a lot of money but still not be happy,” he reflects. “I wanted to build something of my own.” Returning home to Lancashire, Oscar spent time working in the technology sector before taking the reins of Le-Rôti, the award-winning artisan takeaway and deli in Lytham. Rather than simply maintaining what was already there, he saw an opportunity

Recognition soon followed. In 2025, the business was named Lancashire’s Best Artisan Takeaway, adding to a growing list of accolades and nominations. For Oscar, however, success is not about chasing every trend or constantly reinventing the wheel. “Lots of businesses chase trends, but I’d rather perfect what we do than try to be everything to everyone,” he says. The approach appears to be working. Christmas has become one of the busiest periods of the year, with festive food boxes

Looking back, his journey has taken him from hotel kitchens in St Annes to luxury yachts in some of the world’s most exclusive destinations before eventually bringing him back to the Fylde Coast. Along the way, he has learned lessons about hospitality, business and perseverance. “There are times in business when it feels like the wheels are coming off,” he says. “Every business owner experiences it. The important thing is to keep going because, somehow, you always find a way through.” For someone who has navigated both the uncertainty of entrepreneurship and the open waters of the Mediterranean, it is a philosophy that seems particularly fitting. n

leroti.com

food&drink

FROM HOBBY TO… HOMETOWN SUCCESS What began as an experiment in a Preston garage has grown into one of the city’s most respected independent brewing success stories, writes Ali Gudgeon

yan Hayes, founder of Chain House Brewing Co., never set out with grand plans for expansion. Like many craft brewers, he started simply because he loved great beer. “I first started home-brewing back in 2012/13, mainly to try and replicate some of the American craft beers I liked drinking,” he says. “I enjoyed experimenting with different styles and flavours and it gradually grew from a hobby into something much more serious.” Named after Chain House Lane, where Ryan first brewed beer, the business officially launched in 2017. At the time, brewing

was very much a side project. By day, Ryan worked as an electrician. Evenings and weekends were spent refining recipes and learning the craft through experimentation. The leap from a garage setup to a city-centre brewery and taproom was a significant challenge, bringing with it new financial pressures and responsibilities. “The brewery had always been a part-time thing from my garage, so moving into a space that I needed to rent was probably the biggest challenge,” Ryan explains. “We carried out most of the work ourselves, which saved money but took a huge amount of time and effort.”

YOU CAN COME IN, SEE WHERE IT’S MADE, TALK TO THE PEOPLE BEHIND IT AND DRINK IT IN THE PLACE IT WAS PRODUCED Even after opening, he continued juggling a full-time job with running the business. By summer 2023, however, it became clear that something had to give. “I wanted to be certain the Taproom was successful enough before taking the risk of giving up my job,” he says. “Once I knew it was working, it felt like the right time to make the jump.” Today, Ryan says his proudest achievement is not an award or business milestone but seeing people enjoy the space he has created. “There’s something quite satisfying about knowing that something which started as a hobby in my garage has turned into a place

Photography: Anthony P Driver

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where people come together, have a drink and enjoy themselves.” That sense of community remains central to the business. Alongside its own beers, the venue now offers cider, wine, cocktails and alcoholfree options, while hosting open mic nights, spoken word events and a home-brew club.

For Ryan, independent brewing is about more than what’s in the glass. “People like knowing where something has come from and having a connection with the people who make it,” he says. “You can come in, see where it’s made, talk to the people behind it and drink it in the place it was produced.” Preston itself is woven into the story. Having lived in the city all his life, Ryan is passionate about championing its independent food and drink scene. “There’s a good independent scene here and that’s something I’m proud to be part of,” he adds. The latest chapter in that journey came this summer when Ryan secured the longterm future of the brewery by purchasing the building it occupies, giving the business a permanent home in the city he loves. Cheers to that! n

chainhousebrewing.com @chainhousebrewco @chainhousetaproom

This Christmas, relax and let us take care of every detail. From elegant dinners to festive lunches and sparkling celebrations, enjoy the season in style.

FESTIVE DINING • PARTY NIGHTS • CHRISTMAS DAY • BOXING DAY • NEW YEAR’S EVE • NEW YEAR’S DAY • PRIVATE DINING • A LA CARTE

BOOK NOW! CROWWOOD.COM

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food&drink

POTATO PANCAKES

Serves: 12

Prep time: 40 Minutes

WITH SPINACH, SCRAMBLED EGG & NDUJA BUTTER

Cook time: 15 Minutes

As autumn arrives, this tasty potato pancake recipe featuring warming nduja butter, is brought to you by Booths

For the potato pancakes:

Ingredients:

75g salted butter

4 free range eggs 50g nduja

1 pack baby spinach 4 Maris Piper potatoes 1 shallot, thinly sliced 25g self-raising flour 2 free range eggs 1 1

/2 tsp salt

/2 tsp crushed black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

Method: • Wash the potatoes and then grate the potato into a clean tea towel.

• Squeeze all the potato water out and place into a bowl with the shallot, flour, two eggs, salt and pepper and bring together. Split into four even sized balls. • Melt 25g butter with two tbsp of olive oil in a large frying pan and add the four potato pancakes. Press gently to flatten and shallow fry for two minutes. • Turn each pancake over and cook for a further two minutes. Once the pancakes have set and they hold together, flip again and cook for a further two minutes each side until they are golden and keep warm. • Scramble four eggs in 25g of butter and keep warm. • Add the remaining butter to a pan and fry the nduja to release all the spices and to make the buttery sauce, then wilt the spinach in the hot butter. • Plate the pancakes with a generous mound of scrambled egg, wilted spinach and dress with the nduja butter. n Chef’s tip: The pancakes can be batch cooked in advance and frozen, then simply grilled from frozen to heat up. Visit booths.co.uk/recipes for more great recipe ideas.

booths.co.uk

SCAN ME for more

CHR I STM IS COM AS OPE I N NO G N 08 .10.2 026

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! S E D B IT

Tuck into our page of Food Bites which brings you the latest news on our restaurants, rural country inns, chefs and local artisan producers who all make Preston and Fylde a region of outstanding gastronomy. If you have any Food Bites news items, please let me know: ali.gudgeon@live-magazines.co.uk

NEW DINING EXPERIENCE Taking over the former Bistro Pierre site on Fishergate, Luka promises a stylish dining experience combining exceptional food, hospitality and entertainment. Diners can expect Aegean, Asian and Mediterranean dishes, premium steaks, breakfast and brunch, and great-value early-bird dining between 4pm and 5.30pm. In the evenings, a full à la carte menu will be complemented by live music and DJs, while Friday and Saturday supper clubs will add a vibrant late-night atmosphere.

COFFEE AND BRUNCH Arabella’s Coffee and Brunch in New Longton is a new spot that combines great coffee with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Located in the heart of the village, it has become a popular place for locals and visitors to enjoy freshly prepared breakfasts, brunch dishes and homemade treats. Whether you’re meeting friends, catching up over a latte, or starting the day with a hearty meal, Arabella’s offers warm service and a comfortable setting that keeps customers coming back time and time again.

STREET PIZZA Four Slices Pizza is one of Preston’s newest independent food ventures, bringing a fresh take on NYC-style street pizza to Friargate. From classic tomato bases to inventive options like buffalo chicken and caramelised vegetable combinations, the focus is on quality ingredients and big, satisfying portions. Opening this autumn near the university, Four Slices captures the growing appetite for informal, street‑food experiences and is already shaping up to be an exciting addition to Preston’s evolving food scene.

A TASTE OF ASIA A new noodle bar, Chopstix, has opened on Fishergate in the city centre with its focus on Asian flavour in a quick and accessible way making it a firm favourite throughout the country. As well as take away classics like Sweet & Sour Chicken and Salt ‘N’ Pepper Chicken, Chopstix has a range of fresh flavours including the spicy Firecracker Chicken with a fiery garlic and chilli seasoning, and brand favourites like Chicken Katsu Curry and the restaurant’s signature Caramel Drizzle Chicken.

NEW CAFÉ AND BAR

LOCALLY ROASTED COFFEE Fellside Coffee in Goosnargh is the perfect countryside coffee stop, nestled at the foot of Beacon Fell beside the legendary Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire cheese. Enjoy expertly brewed AA-grade speciality coffee, locally roasted by Field & Fire Coffee in Longridge, alongside award-winning sweet treats from Martin Frickel, Britain’s Best Baker 2024/25. With vegan and gluten-free options available, Fellside Coffee offers a warm welcome, exceptional quality, delicious flavours – making it an ideal destination for locals and visitors alike.

Photography: Anthony P Driver

The Peninsula Club in Lytham St Annes is one of the town’s newest additions to its evolving food and drink scene, offering a stylish, all-day destination that blends café culture with evening cocktails. Situated on Dicconson Terrace and open from morning through to late, it serves everything from relaxed breakfasts and brunches to seasonal small plates and succulent steaks, alongside an impressive drinks menu. By night, it transforms into a lively social spot with DJs and a buzzing atmosphere.

C H R IS T MA S a t L ONG R IDG E H O U S E Gather, Feast & Celebrate

1 ST

3 RD

F ES TIVE MENUS BEGIN F OR G ATHERINGS BIG & SMALL TH

WREATH MAKING WO RKSHO P

CHRISTMAS EVE LIVE MUSIC

5 TH CHRISTMAS MARKET AT TH E H OUSE

1 3 TH

2 0 TH

BREAKFAST WIT H SANTA

P O P- U P CINEMA

2 1 ST

24 T H

25 T H

31 ST

BR ASS BAN D CH R IS TMAS SING ALONG

CHRISTMAS EVE LIVE MUSIC

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

NEW YEAR’S EVE CHAMPAGNE LUNCH

Throughout December FE STIVE AFTE RNOON TE A

DECEMBER PARTY M E NU

K ID S ’

TWO COURSES £28 | THREE COURSES £35

Whether you’re gathering with friends, family or colleagues, there’s something for everyone at Longridge House, from festive menus and seasonal events to private spaces, winter stays and gift cards.

AF TE RTO O N T E A

Scan for full event details, menus and bookings.

olivia@longridgehouse.com | 01772 233142 | Chipping Lane, Thornley, Preston, PR3 2TB

THE ART OF LIFE Jane Law explains how a local society is bringing joy and friendship to many arts enthusiasts

hat do the hilarious Clare in the Community cartoons and Mary Quant have in common with gripping wartime tales to save our national treasures or the design of the London Underground? Well, they’re all topics from lectures and events offered by a local society on a mission to engage members, young and old, with everything the world of art has to offer. And it’s a much more varied offering than you might expect. For the past 52 years Samlesbury Arts Society has been enriching lives with an ever-expanding programme which now

includes holidays and trips both home and abroad, behind the scenes’ visits to local museums and special events like an antiques valuation day.

There are also opportunities for volunteers to help local projects like conserving historic textile collections, as well as working with youngsters from primary schools. And that’s in addition to an ‘excellent’ annual programme of lectures – as confirmed by 93 per cent of members responding to a recent survey carried out by the society. Chairman Joanna Lavelle from Whalley, who has been a member for 13 years, explains: “We’re very keen to promote the benefits of membership here at Samlesbury. We have so much more to offer over and above our great lectures, which are so informative and often humorous. “Culture has a very important role to play when the world is in a difficult place. There are so many messages we can learn from our heritage and we encourage this interest, especially in young people, for example by supporting the national Art Bytes programme.” Former chair and founding member, Sheila Jones, from Clayton-le-Woods, has very

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personal ties with the Samlesbury group. She recalls suddenly losing her husband 26 years ago, but being able to fill her entire week with different activities thanks to the Arts Society: “I always wanted to visit the Hermitage in St Petersburg and was able to go on a cruise there. I joined the church recorders as a volunteer, I worked at Blackburn Museum, I went on trips – and the quality of the lectures is excellent! You really learn something every time.

IT’S A SMASHING THING TO DO WITH A GOOD MIX OF PEOPLE. IT HAS REALLY ADDED TO MY LIFE “It’s not posh or too arty. It’s a smashing thing to do with a good mix of people. It has really added to my life,” says Sheila. Members have enjoyed several trips this year including a four-day visit to Paris in April taking in Notre Dame Cathedral, Chateau de Foutainebleau, Montmartre and the Musee d’Orsay. Closer to home there were outings to the Harris Museum in Preston and to Port Sunlight to see the Lady Lever Gallery.

And the recent History Wardrobe day featuring fashions from the Regency period to Mary Quant’s swinging 60s proved a huge hit. Heritage volunteers have helped Lancashire Infantry Museum conserve their WWI colours and are currently researching and cataloguing a treasure trove of old costumes held by Blackburn Museum. Of the current 200 or so members, Andrea Ferrari from Wilpshire is one of the newest recruits. She experienced her first lecture about the Art of the Cartoonist given by Harry Venning, the creator of the Clare in the Community comic strip and she’s already invited a guest who’s a canal enthusiast to a future lecture about their history and heritage. The society attracts members for many different reasons. Besides meeting those who share a passion for the arts, there’s a much-appreciated social aspect too. Joanna explains: “Most hear of us by word of mouth. Members bring guests so they can try before they buy for a small fee. Perhaps if you’ve been bereaved or if you’ve enjoyed doing these things in the past, it’s a good way to get started again. One member cried tears of joy because she was so excited to be part of one of our trips. It’s very fulfilling.” Samlesbury is just one of more than 300 local societies of the Arts Society which has over 64,000 members nationally – members meet monthly at the Garner Hotel, Samlesbury. Samlesbury’s neighbouring society, Ribble Valley and Craven, also offers its own unique lecture programme and events. n For more information about Samlesbury’s forthcoming lectures, details about membership and an insight into their heritage work, trips and events, please see the website and contact details.

MEMBERS HAVE ENJOYED SEVERAL TRIPS THIS YEAR INCLUDING A VISIT TO PARIS TAKING IN NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL, CHATEAU DE FOUTAINEBLEAU, MONTMARTRE AND THE MUSEE D’ORSAY

theartssocietysamlesbury.org.uk joannalavelle@btinternet.com ribblecraven.theartssociety.org

LOCAL LANDMARKS, LASTING MEMORIES If you’ve spent any time on social media in Lancashire over the past couple of years, chances are you’ve come across the work of Leyland artist Simon Nisbet

nown for his vibrant illustrations of local landmarks, historic pubs, cafés and much-loved buildings, Simon has developed a distinctive style that has struck a chord with people across the county. His colourful sketches celebrate the places that form the backdrop to everyday life, transforming familiar streets and buildings into joyful works of art that evoke memories, pride and a powerful sense of place. What makes Simon’s work particularly appealing is its ability to capture far more than bricks and mortar. His illustrations tell stories. Whether it’s a sketch of Preston’s iconic Harris Museum, the historic Old Black Bull pub, Preston Flag Market or the muchloved Brucciani’s café, each piece sparks a connection with people who have their own memories attached to those locations. Using drawing pens, alcohol markers and watercolour techniques, Simon creates artwork that is instantly recognisable while

adding his own creative interpretation. Colours are often brighter and more expressive than in reality, helping to bring character and personality to buildings that local people know and love.

SEEING MY ARTWORK ON DISPLAY AT FAB WAS AN INCREDIBLE MOMENT AND A REAL MILESTONE IN MY JOURNEY AS A FULL-TIME ARTIST “I like to add colours and elements that may not appear in reality,” Simon explains. “It gives familiar buildings extra life.” That approach has become one of his trademarks. His illustrations feel nostalgic and contemporary at the same time, celebrating Lancashire’s architectural heritage while presenting it through a fresh and energetic lens. Although public landmarks remain

among his most popular subjects, Simon’s portfolio is remarkably diverse. Alongside his well-known town and city scenes, he also creates commissioned artwork of family homes, treasured local businesses and pet portraits. For many customers, these commissions become deeply personal keepsakes. A sketch of a childhood home, a first house or a beloved pet carries emotional value that goes far beyond a traditional piece of wall art. It is this ability to create meaningful, personal artwork that has helped Simon build a loyal and growing following. Some of Simon’s prints have been stocked in the Harris Museum gift shop, introducing his work to even wider audiences and further cementing his reputation as one of Lancashire’s emerging artistic talents. The latest milestone in his journey came with the unveiling of a dedicated gallery space at Preston interiors showroom, FAB Home Interiors. Rather than simply displaying a handful of prints, the collaboration has created a permanent home where visitors can experience a broader collection of Simon’s artwork in one location. For Simon, the launch represented another significant step forward.

arts&culture “Seeing my artwork on display at FAB was an incredible moment and a real milestone in my journey as a full-time artist,” he said. “It was so humbling to see so many people make the effort to come along to the launch, including family, friends and followers who have supported me by commissioning my work.” The partnership began after FAB Home Interiors’ directors Graham and Aimee Croft discovered Simon’s work online. Both were immediately drawn to the way his illustrations captured local landmarks and the emotional connections people have with them. According to Graham, Simon’s artwork stood out because it encouraged conversation. “When we’ve shown people the artwork, they instantly start telling stories,” he said. “They’ll point at a building and say, ‘I know that place’ or ‘I remember going there’. It sparks memories and conversations straight away.”

SIMON CAPTURES THE EMOTIONAL CONNECTION PEOPLE HAVE WITH PLACES The response highlights one of the most remarkable aspects of Simon’s work. His illustrations are not simply visual representations of Lancashire buildings – they are reminders of shared experiences. A sketch of Brucciani’s, for example, might bring back memories of family lunches, first dates or weekend trips into Preston. A local pub might remind someone of decades spent meeting friends. Simon captures the emotional connection people have with places. The gallery space at FAB Home Interiors reflects a growing appetite for locally inspired art and provides an opportunity for new audiences to discover Simon’s work. Importantly, the collaboration has been built around supporting his creativity rather than directing it, allowing him to continue creating the subjects that inspire him most. Looking ahead, Simon hopes to see his artwork stocked in more locations across Lancashire, bringing his distinctive interpretations of the county’s landmarks to an even wider audience. For now, however, his success serves as a reminder that some of the most meaningful art can be found close to home. By celebrating Lancashire’s streets, buildings and businesses, Simon Nisbet has created a body of work that resonates because it reflects the places and memories people hold dear. n simonnisbet.co.uk

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POPULARITY, POWER & TEENAGE REBELLION A cult musical sensation is heading to the Fylde Coast this autumn, combining razor-sharp humour, unforgettable songs and a powerful story about friendship, identity and belonging. Photography: Pamela Raith

he smash-hit production of Heathers the Musical is set to visit Blackpool Grand Theatre this autumn from Tuesday 27th to Saturday 31st October, bringing the halls of Westerberg High to Blackpool for what promises to be an unforgettable week of performances. Based on the iconic 1989 cult film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater,

Heathers tells the story of Veronica Sawyer, an intelligent teenage outsider whose life changes when she is unexpectedly welcomed into the most powerful clique in school: the three beautiful, wealthy and ruthless Heathers. What begins as a dream come true soon spirals into something much darker when Veronica becomes involved with mysterious rebel J.D., forcing her to confront

questions of morality, identity and what it really means to belong. Since premiering in Los Angeles in 2013, Heathers the Musical has become a global phenomenon. Following a successful New York run and a reimagined London debut in 2018 featuring new songs and an updated script, the show has enjoyed three acclaimed West End runs and three record-breaking UK and Ireland tours. Now, Blackpool audiences will have the chance to experience the cult sensation for themselves. At its heart, Heathers is about far more than teenage popularity. Beneath the witty one-liners, high-energy choreography and memorable score lies an exploration of

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themes that continue to resonate across generations. Friendship, popularity, identity and belonging sit at the centre of the story, making it as relevant today as ever. For cast member Veronica Carabai, who plays Ms Fleming and Veronica Sawyer’s mother, that enduring relevance is one of the reasons audiences continue to connect so strongly with the show.

HEATHERS THE MUSICAL HAS BECOME A GLOBAL PHENOMENON “Heathers speaks to a humanity that we as a society live everyday based on how our adolescent stages were formed,” she explains. “It speaks to the everyday situations that we never have the opportunity to talk about whilst making us laugh. We get to feel heard and seen truly regarding things that means a lot to us whilst being entertained.”

It is a sentiment that reflects the musical’s unique ability to tackle serious subjects while remaining entertaining. Whether it is the pressure to fit in, the desire to be accepted or the struggle to discover who you really are, Heathers shines a light on experiences many people recognise from their own school years. Taking on the lead role of Veronica Sawyer is Gerardine Sacdalan, who will star in both the West End production and the UK and Ireland tour. Sacdalan previously impressed audiences as Juliet in the UK tour of & Juliet, earning a nomination for Best Professional Debut at last year’s WhatsOnStage Awards. Asked why the musical continues to strike a chord with modern audiences, she offers a simple but powerful answer: “The relatability of the reality of growing up as a teenager.” That authenticity is one of the reasons Veronica remains such a compelling character. Unlike the seemingly perfect Heathers, Veronica is flawed, awkward and searching for her place in the world, a quality that many audience members see in themselves. For Sacdalan, embracing those imperfections has been key to bringing the character to life.

“Sitting in the awkwardness and quirkiness of her!” she says when asked about the biggest challenge of portraying Veronica. It is an approach that highlights the character’s vulnerability and humanity. Veronica is neither a traditional heroine nor a typical high-school outsider. Instead, she is a young woman trying to navigate complicated friendships, social pressures and difficult choices, making her journey both relatable and emotionally engaging.

BENEATH THE WITTY ONE-LINERS, HIGH-ENERGY CHOREOGRAPHY AND MEMORABLE SCORE LIES AN EXPLORATION OF THEMES THAT CONTINUE TO RESONATE ACROSS GENERATIONS In fact, Sacdalan feels she shares quite a lot with her character. That connection undoubtedly helps to bring authenticity to the role, allowing audiences to invest in Veronica’s struggles

and triumphs as she learns that popularity is not necessarily the answer to happiness. As audiences return to Westerberg High this autumn, they can expect much more than a nostalgic adaptation of a beloved film. Heathers the Musical combines a hugely entertaining score with razor-sharp humour and themes that remain strikingly relevant in today’s world. It invites audiences to reflect on the labels people place on one another, the importance of genuine friendship and the courage it takes to be yourself. Whether you are a long-time fan who knows every lyric or a newcomer discovering the story for the first time, Heathers offers an exhilarating theatrical experience packed with energy, emotion and plenty of surprises. n Heathers the Musical visits Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 27th to Saturday 31st October.

blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Proper t y Agent s • Char tered Sur veyors • Valuers

Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire A striking contemporary residence combining bold architectural design, elegant interiors and exceptional family accommodation. A stunning private setting on sought-after Ballam Road, this impressive six-bedroom home sits within approximately 4.9 acres of beautifully presented grounds. Fabulous glazing, open-plan living spaces and a contemporary kitchen with Miele appliances, quartz surfaces and secret wine cellar/pantry create a superb modern home. A cinema room, home office and versatile additional accommodation offer further flexibility, including potential for an annexe. Outside, the gardens are something to behold, featuring expansive lawns, ponds, golf green, tree house, folly, vegetable garden and garden lodge. A double garage with hobby room completes this truly remarkable home.

Offers Over £3,000,000

Newburgh, Lancashire A gorgeous home oozing character, offering space inside and out, and enjoying great levels of privacy. Set within approximately 2.5 acres, this charming six-bedroom former farmhouse occupies an exceptional semi-rural setting, with open countryside views and beautifully established private gardens. Offering around 3,405 sq. ft, the six-bedroom home combines period character with versatile living space. A charming hand-painted kitchen, generous reception rooms and the potential for groundfloor annexe accommodation add further versatility. Outside, there are stunning established garden. A detached double garage, spacious parking and paddock giving potential for equestrian or agricultural interests.

Asking Price £1,100,000

North Lancashire 01995 603 180

South Lancashire 01704 895 995

Cumbria 01539 751 933

Ribble Valley 01200 411 155

northlancs@abarnett.co.uk

southlancs@abarnett.co.uk

cumbria@abarnett.co.uk

ribblevalley@abarnett.co.uk

Proper t y Agent s • Char tered Sur veyors • Valuers

We’re delighted to announce two exciting developments within our Agency Department, strengthening our expertise across residential property and new-build.

Simon joined Armitstead Barnett as a Viewing Agent in April 2024 following his retirement from law and now takes the next step in his career with us.

Thomas Bretherton joins our South Lancashire office as Senior Property Agent, bringing almost 20 years’ property experience and extensive knowledge of the residential market across South Lancashire and beyond. Thomas will head up the agency team there, specialising in residential sales and lettings and further strengthening our presence across the region.

Head of Agency and Partner, Hannah Towers, comments:

Simon Ainsworth has stepped into a new role as New Build Agent, bringing extensive experience from his career as a residential property solicitor, particularly in high-value, complex and new-build transactions.

“A huge welcome to the team to both Thomas and Simon. Thomas has a wealth of experience in agency and joins us to continue, solidify and grow our South Lancashire office. We can’t wait to see the results. I know Simon will offer well-rounded advice to our developer clients, drawing on his many years of experience. We have numerous new-build sites lined up over the next few years.” We look forward to seeing both play an important role in the continued growth of our Agency Department.

North Lancashire 01995 603 180

South Lancashire 01704 895 995

Cumbria 01539 751 933

Ribble Valley 01200 411 155

northlancs@abarnett.co.uk

southlancs@abarnett.co.uk

cumbria@abarnett.co.uk

ribblevalley@abarnett.co.uk

ON SCREEN

Check out the latest films coming soon to The Flower Bowl in Preston. Book now at theflowerbowl.uk

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: THE MISANTHROPE

Date of Showing: 22nd September at 7.00pm Directors: Christine Lalla and Indhu Rubasingham Starring: Sandra Oh, Paul Chahidi and Abigail Cruttenden BBFC Certificate: TBC Telling the truth isn’t always that simple. Alice, a brilliant novelist, despises the carefully constructed lies of modern society. But the more she challenges those around her, the fiercer the backlash becomes. Soon, she must confront the price of speaking her truth in a world that would rather silence her. Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Indhu Rubasingham directs Martin Crimp’s (Cyrano de Bergerac) highly anticipated play. Genre: Play

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY

Release Date: 25th September Director: Georgia Oakley Starring: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Caitriona Balfe and Bodhi Rae Breathnach BBFC Certificate: PG From Focus Features and Working Title comes an irresistible new take on Jane Austen’s iconic Sense and Sensibility: a charming, witty and deeply relatable story of love and sisterhood starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles. Three sisters experience love and heartbreak after they’re forced to leave their family estate with their widowed mother and move to a humble cottage. Genre: Romance

FALLEN ANGELS

Date of showing: 22nd October Director: Scott Ellis Starring: Rose Byrne, Kelli O’Hara, Tracee Chimo, Mark Consuelos and Aasif Mandvi BBFC Certificate: TBC Sparkling, dizzying and deliciously potent, Noël Coward’s champagne-fresh comedy of bad manners, shocked and delighted audiences at its 1925 premiere. Two upper-class wives share toasts to their pre-marital dalliances – with the same man – who just may be en route to visit. Old rivalries and past scandals bubble to the surface in one of theatre’s comedy masterpieces. Genre: Play

ROYAL BALLET: MANON*

Release Date: 27th October at 7.15pm Director: Kenneth MacMillan BBFC Certificate: TBC In the seedy underbelly of 18th-century Paris, money is king. Nothing is sacred – even love itself can be bought. Manon is a native of this hedonistic underworld, who falls in love with a student, Des Grieux, who offers the possibility of an honourable life. Manon’s inner turmoil and struggle lie at the devastating heart of Kenneth MacMillan’s 1974 adaptation of Abbé Prévost’s novel, whose nuanced understanding of human psychology makes for an unflinching look into moral degradation. While all its decadence and decay are brought to life through Jules Massenet’s score and Nicholas Georgiadis’s designs. Genre: *Live direct feed (satellite) from Royal Ballet and Opera House in London

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