Live the Dales Issue 8 Winter 2025/26

10 LEAVING THEIR MARK

The Dales settlements connected to the Vikings. Local historian Mike Dixon examines the origins of their names.

58 WALKS CAN BE FUN!

Samantha Brown reveals how she encouraged her young ‘reluctant explorers’ into the great outdoors - and outlines a wonderful caves adventure.

96 SECURE FUTURE FOR ILKLEY PRESCHOOL

The town’s longest standing provider of early years education has found a new home after doubts over its future.

104 NEW ERA FOR HISTORIC INN

Appletreewick pub is brought back to life by its new owners and a chef with a vision.

126 KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

An exhibition of artwork by three generations of women painting and living in a Malham cottage.

LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Publisher: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Annette McIntyre

Operations Manager: Kate Hyde

Production Manager: James Britton

Sales Account Manager: Jo Dixon (jo.dixon@live-magazines.co.uk)

Business Development & Sport: Mark Dixon

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley

Photography: Jo Denison, Anthony P Driver and Kirsten Platt

Editorial Contributors: Dominic Adams, Victoria Benn, Samantha Brown, Kate Bowyer, Mike Dixon, Mark Dixon, Katie Hammond, Kate Hyde, Ben Hopkins, Charles Jenkins, Tedd Walmsley, Jan Woolley and Andrew Vaux

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Live Editor

Winter often gets an unfair bad rap. Yes it’s true the days are shorter and colder and the world can seem a gloomier place - but it’s also the time of year that can offer gorgeous snowscapes and magical icy words.

If anything shows how beautiful winter in the Dales can be it’s our stunning front page picture from Stephen Garnett Photography. Also striking are the wintry images taken by Samanthat Brown who set up her own website of walks to encourage ‘reluctant explorers’ to enjoy the great outdoors.

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing,” is a well-known quote from Alfred Wainwright the great fellwalker, guidebook author and illustrator. And although that might not be strictly true in every instance it’s certainly the case that winter walks can be wonderful with the right gear - while of course following any safety advice. In this edition Samantha outlines an intriguing adventure in the Settle area visiting what have been described as the “most spectacular cave systems in the UK”. Perfect for young and not so young adventurers! She will be providing details of more adventures in future editions - so watch this space.

While visiting Settle you might want to take in an exhibition at The Folly which celebrates three generations of artists from one Malham cottage - showcasing over a century of creativity, heritage and the Yorkshire landscape. Find out more on page 124.

If neither walking nor art are your thing and you’re looking for a cosy pub to take shelter in you might find that the New Inn at Appletreewick is exactly what you’re searching for. This traditional and historic pub is being brought back to life by its new owners Chris and Alexa Ives and by a top class chef Mikael Paylor who learned his trade in Mayfair. Alexa, Chris and Mikael are all keen to ‘keep it real’ and champion the New Inn as a traditional local pub without the fine dining cliché.

If anyone knew a thing or two about cold, dreary winters it was the Vikings. The Dales were once home to the fearsome marauders turned settlers. And even today we can trace their legacy - as explained by local historian Mike Dixon who examines the Viking origins of some of our familiar place-names.

So whether you’re out and about or enjoying a cosy pub, have a good winter!

Annette McIntyre Editor

PLACE-NAMES: THE VIKING LEGACY

Local historian Mike Dixon continues his look at the origins of place names in and around the Dales

My first article on place-names in the Yorkshire Dales emphasised that many of them owed their origin to Anglo-Saxon settlements founded during the 6th, 7th and 8th centuries. The next wave of invaders and settlers were the Vikings. The Vikings began their incursions into Northern England in the late 8th century and established a significant presence during the 9th century. The Viking Age is traditionally dated to 793 CE (Common Era), marked by the raid on the monastery at Lindisfarne.

In 865 CE the ‘Great Heathen Army’, a large force of Viking warriors from Denmark, landed in East Anglia and began a sustained campaign to conquer Anglo-Saxon territory north of the Humber.

THE VIKINGS LEFT A STRONG LINGUISTIC IMPRINT WHEREVER THEY SETTLED

By 867 CE, the Vikings captured the city of York (then called Eoforwic) and established it as Jorvik, a key base of operations in East and North Yorkshire. The spread westwards is signified by the occurrence of Norse place-names such as at Harrogate. The name is generally believed to derive from the Old Norse word horgr, meaning a pagan temple or a heap of stones, combined with the Old

English word gata, meaning road or street. This suggests that Harrogate might have originally referred to a ‘road to the temple’ or ‘road to the cairn’. Meanwhile, other Viking incursions occurred on the west coast, with major rivers, like the Eden and the Ribble, allowing their longships to bring settlers deep inland where they spread through the sparsely populated countryside of Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales.

The Vikings left a strong linguistic imprint wherever they settled. They spoke Old Norse (ON), a North Germanic language that was the ancestor of modern Scandinavian languages such as Icelandic, Norwegian, Danish and Swedish. Viking settlers in the Dales (from the ON dalr) would have encountered established Anglo-Saxon settlements occupying the prime sites in the valleys, so they were forced to farm the uplands. Thus, in contrast to nucleated villages situated close to the main rivers, most Viking settlements were on higher ground and either ‘linear’, running along a routeway on the hillsides, or ‘dispersed’ as scattered households with no focal point, unlike their Anglo-Saxon neighbours.

Viking place names often end in characteristic suffixes:

-by, which means a dwelling, farmstead or village. There are several examples in the Dales including Carperby from Old Irish personal name Cairpre and -by, ‘Cairpre’s farm’ and Eastby – ‘the farm on the east side’ (of the parish).

-thorpe meaning a secondary settlement, outlying farmstead, or village. The use of ‘thorpe’ in place names is relatively rare in the Dales compared to other parts of Yorkshire, such as the East Riding and the Vale of York. This is partly because ‘thorpe’ names are more common in areas with heavier Viking settlement in lowland regions. However, we have Thorpe itself, a hamlet near Grassington.

THUS, THE NORMANS’ INTRODUCTION OF OLD FRENCH HAD LITTLE IMPACT ON PLACE-NAMES IN THE DALES

-thwaite , meaning ‘a clearing, meadow, or piece of land’. The village simply called Thwaite is in Swaledale.

Other place names incorporated Norse words for physical features like beck –a stream, such a Langstrothdale Beck; fell – hill/mountain, as in Burnsall Fell; garth – enclosure or yard, as in Aysgarth meaning ‘the enclosure by the oaks’; with from ON vithr – a wood, as in Askwith where Ask- comes from the ON askr meaning ‘ash tree’ and, hence means ‘the

ash-tree wood’; rigg – a ridge, as in Askrigg means ‘ash-tree ridge’. The ON haugr –a mound or hill, is coupled with kráka –a crow or raven, to provide a possible origin of Cracoe – ‘crow (or raven) hill’. The derivation of Conistone is less apparent. It likely comes from the ON personal name Kuni or the OE Cyning, meaning ‘King’. Alternatively, it may come from ON kona, meaning ‘woman’ or ‘wife’. Thus, the derivation is either from ‘King’s stone’ or, more prosaically, ‘wife’s or woman’s stone’.

Some of the place-names listed already are hybrids of Norse and Old English and there are many examples of such linguistic integration in the Dales. Places in the magazine’s distribution list include Arncliffe meaning ‘Eagle’s cliff’ derived from ON orn, ‘eagle’ and the OE clif which had its current meaning of ‘a steep slope or rocky outcrop’ and Malham from ON malgr meaning ‘gravelly or stony’ and OE ham – ‘the settlement by the stony place’. In Kirkby Malham, Kirkby also comes from Norse, so putting them together means ‘the village with a church near Malham’.

One place name deserves special consideration and that is Settle. The name comes from the Old Norse word saetr, a word for which there is not a precise equivalent in English. Perhaps the best literal match is ‘summer pasture’ but this fails to evoke the full impact of transhumance, the practice of taking herds of cows, sheep or goats to summer pastures above the tree-line which are inaccessible in the winter. The herders live in small huts (shielings) alongside their beasts through the summer months. This practice was central to the agricultural economy of medieval Scandinavia and other regions where Norse culture prevailed, as in the Northern Dales and Cumbria. In addition to Settle, the same Norse root is present in Marsett Thwaite in Raydale, near Semerwater and means ‘Maurr’s summer pasture or shieling in the meadow or clearing’. Further examples are Appersett (‘summer pasture near the apple tree’ ) and Burtersett (‘summer pasture near the alder tree’), both near Hawes. The name Hawes

itself is derived from the ON hals meaning ‘neck’ or ‘pass between mountains’. This etymology reflects the town’s geographical setting in a narrow valley.

In this way, by the time of the next major invasion in 1066, most settlements had a name derived either from Old English or Old Norse or both. Thus, the Normans’ introduction of Old French had little impact on place-names in the Dales. They did, however, have a great influence on the expansion and administration of settlements in Yorkshire, with the building of castles, churches and other religious institutions. It is relevant that the words hamlet, village and manor, all come from Old French precursors.

ISOLATED INSTANCES OF

THE NORMAN INFLUENCE CAN BE SEEN, HOWEVER, IN THE NAMING OF JERVAULX

AND RICHMOND

Isolated instances of the Norman influence can be seen, however, in the naming of Jervaulx and Richmond. Jervaulx, the Cistercian abbey in lower Wensleydale, gets its name from the Old French Jorvalle meaning ‘Yore valley’, Yore being the former name of the River Ure. The name Richmond comes from riche mont, Old French for ‘strong hill’, invoking the castle at the entrance to Swaledale built

by Alan Rufus, a companion of William the Conqueror. The second part of the name Kirkby Malzeard may come from Old French (OF) mal for ‘bad soil’ or ‘bad clearing’, but this is disputed.

Stimulated by the distribution list in this magazine, I have sought the derivation of numerous place-names in the Yorkshire Dales. The exercise has revealed linguistic threads provided by native Celtic inhabitants and Anglo-Saxon and Viking

settlers. These threads have been woven, singly and together, into a rich tapestry of names. Unpicking them has provided evidence of the patterns of settlement in the Dales occurring over a period of roughly five hundred years leading up to 1000 CE. By this time, the settlers, who at first had differing languages and cultures, had been melded into a roughly cohesive whole that was ‘England’. “What’s in a (place) name?”, indeed. n

PASSION FOR PALETTES

Colour connects people and spaces, sparks conversation and shapes mood - from bold statements to subtle touches, it influences everyday life

Acohesive colour palette is the secret to a harmonious look for your home. It ties spaces together with flow and style. Well-planned interior design should reflect your taste and look effortless – but anyone who’s spent hours with colour swatches and Pinterest boards knows better. It was all so much easier when beige reigned supreme, but with colour making a comeback, how can you make confident colour choices that are bold yet timeless?

A good place to start is by choosing a favourite ornament, piece of furniture, or a colour you love. Then follow the designer-approved 60:30:10 rule – 60 per cent primary, 30 per cent secondary and 10 per cent accent.

It’s the simplest way to create balance and visual harmony in any room. By following

this ratio, no single colour overwhelms the space. This method brings a sense of order and sophistication – one of the reasons why professionally designed spaces often feel so effortlessly cohesive.

1. Timeless White and Blue

The customer’s bold grass-green carpet set the tone for this bedroom’s palette. The handcrafted headboard, side table and rich accents - velvet cushions, statement wallpaper and sculptural lamps – complete a cohesive yet vibrant look.

2. Moonstone & Mustard Green

Using the same or similar colours in connecting areas – known as flow-through paint – creates a seamless sense of continuity. Here, the door and frame match the bootility walls for a perfectly unified look.

3. Warm Earth Tones

Inspired by the colours in their favourite painting, the customer chose Slaked Lime (Little Greene) which perfectly sets the stage for the handcrafted island painted in rusty earth tones of Picture Gallery Red No.42 (Farrow & Ball), giving a sunny and coordinated feel to this inviting kitchen.

4. Precious Gemstone Shades

The hand thrown sink was the focal point for this shower room and the perfect place to start when it came to decisions about the overall colour scheme of the room. A gorgeous jewel-like blue on the cabinetry, handcrafted by The Secret Drawer, and finished in Smalt from Paint & Paper Library coupled with a strong neutral, Stony Ground No.21 from Farrow & Ball, is a brave yet sophisticated exercise in colour cohesion.

The Secret Drawer design and handcraft bespoke furniture for every room and space in the home and offer a bespoke interior design service. n

secret-drawer.co.uk

KITCHENS & PANTRIES | INTERIOR DESIGN | UTILITY & BOOT ROOMS

BEDROOMS & DRESSING ROOMS | BATHROOMS | STUDIES | HOME CINEMA

TIME OUT FOR YOUR GARDEN

December is the time of year when the outside comes into the home in the form of foliage decoration and when gardeners can put their feet up, just for a few minutes

Natural living decorations and table centrepieces are easy and eco-friendly to create and are often something all the family has a hand in putting together. Try this for a naturally stunning centrepiece for the Christmas table. Get a good terracotta container, fill it with compost and plant winter cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum) in the centre. Winter cherry is a waxy leaved plant with amazing cherry tomato like

berries, then place a few small poinsettias around it with some ivy.

Ivy is a really useful plant and can look stunning in the garden, even at this time of year. English ivy (Hedera helix) is a native evergreen plant, so is well-adapted to our climate and can grow virtually anywhere, in a variety of soils or sunlight levels and even in the deepest of shade. Ivy flowers in late summer, producing pollen and nectar late in the season and its flowering clusters form small black berries, providing food for thrushes, blackbirds and blackcaps in autumn and early winter. Its dense foliage and network of stems also provide shelter for insects and small mammals, with many birds and bats nesting in mature ivy plants.

TO APPRECIATE THE BEAUTY OF A SNOWFLAKE, IT IS NECESSARY TO STAND OUT IN THE COLD Aristotle

It is a fast-growing and vigorous plant but can be kept under control by pruning back the stems with secateurs and digging up sections of ground cover ivy if it strays into areas of the garden it’s not wanted.

Another plant that can keep growing over the winter months is sage, which will survive outside as long as its roots don’t become water logged. Common sage (Salvia officianalis) is the standard culinary sage with aromatic, downy, olive-green leaves but there are numerous varieties to choose from

including the widely grown purple sage with its attractive, dusky purple, year-round foliage. Sage has a robust, peppery flavour and can be used in many dishes as well as a herbal tea. It’s said to have many health benefits and its botanical name Salvia is from the Latin salvare meaning to heal. n

DECEMBER: TOP TIPS

In addition to decorating your home with winter foliage for the festive season, top tips from the RHS for December jobs in the garden include:

• Check winter plant protection is still in place

• Insulate outdoor taps

• Protect ponds from freezing over

• Prune apple and pear trees

• Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas

• Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops

• Trees and shrubs can still be planted or transplanted

• Take hardwood cuttings

• Keep mice away from stored produce

• Reduce watering of indoor plants

COLOURFUL INSPIRATION

Chalk Paint founder Annie Sloan explains why she has turned to the work of artist Henri Matisse to inspire her colourful, homemade, festive decorations

“This Christmas I have taken inspiration from one of the most famous artists of the 20th century, Henri Matisse. Matisse was famous for his use of vibrant colour and bold shapes and is best-known for his paper cut-outs,” says Annie Sloan. “It is these wonderful shapes that have inspired my Christmas theme this year.

“Every year I make Christmas decorations with my grandchildren and then we decorate the tree together. This year, inspired by

Matisse, we will be making fireplace garlands out of cardboard shapes, painting our own stockings and creating tree decorations from modelling clay. All painted with my signature Chalk Paint.

“My Christmas palette is bright and joyful and my table will be decorated with handpainted bowls, napkin rings and place mats.”

The decorations were all painted in a palette of five bright colours – Tyrian Plum, Frida Blue, Capri Pink, Arles and Original.

THIS YEAR, INSPIRED BY MATISSE, WE WILL BE MAKING FIREPLACE GARLANDS OUT OF CARDBOARD SHAPES AND CREATING TREE DECORATIONS FROM MODELLING CLAY

Old bottles and bowls were upcycled using simple shapes inspired by Matisse’s cut out shapes. Accent colours were Antibes and Florence.

There was also a mix of 50:50 Capri Pink and Original and imitation gold metal leaf was used as an accent.

Annie invented Chalk Paint 35 years ago in 1990. This revolutionary decorative paint is perfect for upcycling and revamping all kinds of furniture. There are now 51 colours in the collection.

Easy to use and quick to dry, Chalk Paint is the simple way to transform furniture, floors and walls. It works on wood, metal, laminate, concrete, indoors and outdoors and can be used to create a variety of different decorative paint effects. n

anniesloan.com

WORKING WITH NATURE: THE SIMPLE JOY OF WINTER PLANTING

Liz Walmsley discovers how bare root and root ball planting can transform both your garden and your budget this winter

Winter might not seem like the obvious time to think about planting, but for those in the know it’s the perfect season to get ahead. This is bare root and root ball season – a short window of opportunity that’s great for your garden and incredibly cost effective.

I meet Bannister Hall’s nursery manager Dave Newsham, who’s spent more than 20 years and his whole career working in horticulture: “From October through to March, everything slows down,” he explains as we walk between tidy rows of hornbeam and laurel.

NOW IS THE MOMENT TO PLANT AS THEY’LL SETTLE THROUGH WINTER AND BURST INTO LIFE COME MARCH

“The trees are dormant, they’re resting, which makes it the perfect time to lift and move them. They’re not putting on new growth, so their roots can be relocated without stress. Once spring arrives, they wake up naturally and start growing again.”

It’s a fascinating process and one that’s deeply in tune with the rhythm of the seasons. The nursery specialises in bare root and root ball plants and Dave is quick to outline the difference: “Root ball plants are the more mature option,” he says, picking up a neatly wrapped specimen ready for dispatch.

“They’re lifted with a ball of soil still around the roots, held in a biodegradable hessian sack. You plant the whole thing, sack and all, straight into the ground. It’s clean, straightforward and the success rates are excellent. Because they already have a strong root system, they establish quickly and can create what we call an instant hedge. You can transform a boundary in a single day.”

Bare root plants, by contrast, are lighter, smaller and easier to handle with their roots exposed.

“They’re generally younger so they take a

little longer to fill out, but they’re incredibly cost-effective,” adds Dave. “You plant them while they’re dormant and by spring you’ll see that flush of new green growth. They settle beautifully and grow quickly once the weather warms.”

That affordability is a major advantage. Both bare root and root ball plants cost significantly less than pot-grown alternatives, often by half, or even more when buying in bulk: “It’s why landscapers love them. If you’re planting long hedge lines, tree avenues or screening large areas, the savings are substantial. And because root ball plants are mature, you get that instant visual impact.”

There’s also a strong sustainability angle. These plants are grown naturally in open fields rather than confined to plastic pots: “It’s a much more natural way of growing. Their roots develop freely in the soil, so they’re stronger and better prepared to establish when

replanted. Plus, there’s no plastic waste, no containers to throw away as everything goes straight from the ground back into the ground.”

For home gardeners, the idea can sound a bit intimidating, but it’s actually very straightforward. “People often think they need special tools or techniques, but really it’s simple,” Dave reassures me. “Once your plants arrive, get them into the ground promptly and water them well if conditions are dry. After that, they largely look after themselves. You’re working with nature, not against it.”

THE SAVINGS ARE SUBSTANTIAL AND BECAUSE ROOT BALL PLANTS ARE MATURE, YOU GET THAT INSTANT VISUAL IMPACT

That phrase, working with nature, really captures Bannister Hall’s ethos. This is a business built on horticultural expertise and one that clearly takes pride in the knowledge behind every sale.

“We’ve got qualified horticulturalists on site every day, so whether you’re a professional landscaper or a homeowner planting your first hedge, we’ll help you choose the right species and size for your space. Getting the right advice from the start makes a world of difference.”

Bannister Hall’s on-site landscaping supplies centre offers everything from compost and bark to decorative stone and paving. It’s a genuine one-stop shop for anyone upgrading an outdoor space, as Dave explains: “People can collect everything they need for their project in one visit, knowing they’re getting the right materials for the job.”

As our conversation draws to a close, timing comes up once more – and the message is clear: “Don’t leave it too long,” he says. “The season is short. Once spring arrives, the plants wake up and we can’t lift them anymore. Now is the moment to plant as they’ll settle through winter and burst into life come March. You’ll save money, use fewer resources and see stronger longterm results.”

There’s something deeply satisfying about planting this way as it’s practical, sustainable and perfectly in step with nature’s own rhythm. In a world where everything moves fast, it’s a reminder that some of the best rewards still come to those willing to plant, wait and watch things grow. n

bannisterhall.com

Open Monday to Friday — with free on-site parking everythingplants.co.uk

DES

N, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALLATION OF BESPOKE JOINERY

Based in Rylstone, just outside Skipton in the Yorkshire Dales, we are proud to offer fully finished bespoke joinery products throughout the area. We specialise in high-quality timber doors, windows and staircases.

Based in Rylstone, just outside Skipton in the Yorkshire Dales, we are proud to offer fully finished bespoke joinery products throughout the area. We specialise in high-quality timber doors, windows and staircases.

CREATORS OF BESPOKE, HIGH QUALITY, INSPIRATIONAL KITC HENS , BEDROOMS AND FITTED FURNITURE

Interested in experiencing our quality workmanship and beautifully crafted fitted furniture for yourself, why not make an appointment to visit the Millybell Interiors showroom?

Interested in experiencing our quality workmanship and beautifully crafted fitted furniture for yourself, why not make an appointment to visit the Millybell Interiors showroom?

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

TAC Electrical provides a wide range of services to both corporate and residential customers. Andrew Vaux talks to owner Tom Cockerham about the growth of his company, his plans for the future and the team’s culture and ethos

Tom Cockerham has created a small, close-knit team of highly-skilled and dedicated professionals.

With over a decade of electrical installation experience in the Ilkley, Skipton and Harrogate areas, the team takes pride in offering a wide range of electrical services, from minor domestic repairs to extensive commercial projects. Expertise also extends to the renewables sector, encompassing:

• Solar panel installations (domestic and commercial)

• Battery storage

• EV charger installation (domestic and commercial)

• Commercial Installation

• Residential Installation

• Electrical Installation Condition Reporting

Looking ahead to the future, the experienced team will continue to grow. Tom says: “We’ve built a great team with multiple employees that have been with us from apprenticeship stage to 10+ years’ service.

“We’re a team of 20 people including electricians, apprentices and admin staff. Our ethos is to provide a higher level of service. We achieve this starting with your first point of contact in our friendly office team who are on hand to schedule works in a timely fashion.

“We continue this higher-level service with further training for all our electricians and

aim to have all electricians in the company 2391-52 qualified (higher level inspection and testing qualification) by 2026.”

WITH OVER A DECADE OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE THE TEAM TAKES PRIDE IN OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF ELECTRICAL SERVICES, FROM MINOR DOMESTIC REPAIRS TO EXTENSIVE COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

Tom adds: “My ambition for the future is to continue to grow to develop new roles within the company for current and new members of staff. I hope to be able to expand in 2026 to include in-house mechanical services to compliment some of our other services.”

Having obtained his Level 2 and 3 in Electrical Installation at Bradford College through an apprenticeship, Tom started his electrical career working with his dad. Having benefitted from the apprenticeship programme himself, Tom is still a strong advocate of the scheme working closely with Craven College and endeavours to take on a new apprentice each year.

As a successful businessman, Tom never loses sight of the importance of colleagues and creating a dedicated, hardworking team. When asked what advice he would give to someone setting up in business today, he promptly replies: “Look after your staff, train them well and give them something to progress towards. Make work something they enjoy as much as you do.” n

TAC Electrical 01756 699434

enquiries@tacelectrical.co.uk tacelectrical.co.uk

TIME TO DECLUTTER

Rachel Cordingley from A Tidy Mind Team reveals how she plans to declutter her home in 2026

LA4 Quarter.qxp_Layout 1 28/08/2019 16:28 Page 1

ife happens – items accumulate and I need to declutter, but it can be overwhelming before getting started. I adopt the ski-slope method. Sadly, this does not involve après ski with Glühwein. It means treating your room as a ski slope, traversing across the piste by starting at one side and working your way around to the other.

The OHIO rule – Only Handle It Once – is to pick an item up and to decide on its destiny based on categories in four-boxes – keep, bin/ recycle, donate and relocate.

THE OHIO RULE –ONLY HANDLE IT ONCE –IS TO PICK AN ITEM UP AND TO DECIDE ON ITS DESTINY BASED ON CATEGORIES

The 20/20 guide makes it easier to discard items which are worth less than £20 and which would take less than 20 minutes to replace,

very easy with just an online shopping click. The six-month wardrobe analysis helps you to discard/donate items you have not worn during the last six months and don’t envisage wearing in the next six months.

The KonMarie method leaves sentimental items to be sorted out until last.

Please get in touch if you would like my help –unless I am actually skiing on the slopes, then you can be helped by one of the team. n

A Tidy Mind Team 07956 650146 Rachel@ATidyMind.co.uk ATidyMind.co.uk/WestandNorthYorkshire facebook.com/ATidyMindTeam instagram.com/atidymindteam/ linkedin.com/company/ a-tidy-mind-team/ @atidymindteam

Founded by Paul and Debbie Barker, Anchor Logs is a family business selling ready-to-burn kiln dried logs from their farm in Gargrave

Anchor Logs’ success is built on two fundamental principles – supplying the best quality product and providing outstanding customer service. Being a certified member of the ‘Woodsure Ready to Burn Scheme’ shows Anchor Logs’ commitment to responsible, sustainable woodland management practices, ensuring their customers receive only the highest quality products.

The wood is processed into logs and dried in the drying kiln on site. Anchor Logs also supply kindling, coal and log stores.

We also like to talk to our customers and welcome telephone orders during office hours: 01756 748342. Anchor Logs offer free delivery within a 30-mile radius.

Online orders welcome 24/7 at anchorlogs.co.uk n

Energy efficient Speedy build Room in roof option

Predictable build programme

Design flexibility

Offsite precision engineered

At Clearly Interiors, we take the hard work out of renovating your home. Our showroom in Burnley showcases over 25 kitchen displays, over 60 bathrooms and 10 bedrooms for you to feast your eyes upon and get inspiration. We can kit you out using reputable brands like Bauformat, Blanco, Quooker, Neff, Siemens, Daval, Crosswater, and Vitra. Creating a state of the art design for any room is something we pride ourselves upon.

If you are looking for a new kitchen, bedroom, bathroom then there is no need to look further. At Clearly Interiors, we measure, design, quote and install. We can manage your project from start to finish. Contact us to see how we can make your dream project come to life with our FREE survey and design service.

COSY UP FOR THE SEASON

Wrap your home in comfort this winter with soft furnishings that feel warm, inviting and wonderfully easy to live with

As the temperatures dip there’s something deeply satisfying about creating a home that feels cocooning. Soft furnishings play a big part in that transformation because they add instant warmth and a sense of ease without the need for major decorating. This season is all about touchable textures, gentle colours and pieces that encourage you to slow down and settle in.

Start with the basics by layering throws across sofas and chairs. Thick knits, felted wool and faux fur all add wonderful depth and make even the chilliest evenings feel indulgent. If your seating feels a bit tired a well chosen throw can completely refresh it while adding a new tone or texture to your room. Look for colours that echo winter’s natural palette such as slate blue, deep green or soft taupe which feel grounding and calm as the festive rush fades.

Cushions are another simple way to update your space for the season. Mixing fabrics works beautifully at this time of year. Velvet sits comfortably next to boucle or brushed cotton creating a tactile mix that feels both modern and relaxed. Varying the size and shape of your cushions also helps a room

THIS SEASON IS ALL ABOUT TOUCHABLE TEXTURES, GENTLE COLOURS AND PIECES THAT ENCOURAGE YOU TO SLOW DOWN AND SETTLE IN

feel more considered. Square cushions offer structure while bolsters and oversized styles add a more informal look perfect for cosy reading corners.

Rugs make a noticeable difference too especially if you have wooden or tiled floors. A thick rug underfoot can transform the feel of a room from cool to snug in an instant. Wool is the classic choice for winter thanks to its natural insulation and durability. If your living space is open plan, layering a smaller rug over a larger one adds visual interest and helps define areas without feeling heavy.

Curtains can also play a vital role when the weather shifts. Heavier fabrics such as lined velvet or textured weaves help keep warmth in and create a sense of softness around windows. If you prefer a lighter look try pairing sheer curtains with thicker drapes so you can adjust the atmosphere depending on the time of day.

Finally consider those little touches that quietly elevate a room. A fabric covered footstool offers a place to rest tired legs while adding pattern. A weighted throw at the end of the bed brings instant comfort on frosty nights. Even swapping out a lampshade for one in a warmer fabric can subtly shift the energy of a space.

With a few thoughtful additions your home can feel inviting, warm and ready for everything the colder months bring. n

BURN BETTER

Peter Ashby, Production Director at ESSE Engineering, Barnoldswick, explains why not all woodburners are created equal and why modern stoves deserve a closer look

In an age of bold headlines and misinformation, woodburning stoves are often unfairly cast as environmental villains. The truth is more nuanced and as a director of a stove maker with a 171-year brand heritage, I believe that context matters.

One of the main issues is how the term ‘woodburner’ is used in the media. Reports

often lump together open fires, old inefficient stoves and today’s modern clean-burning stoves, which are vastly different in their emissions and performance.

ESSE Engineering has been designing and building stoves and range cookers since 1854. While technology has evolved, our commitment to sustainable, efficient heating remains unchanged.

ESSE HAS BEEN PROMOTING CLEAN-BURNING SINCE THE 1920S LONG BEFORE IT WAS FASHIONABLE

THE FACTS ABOUT MODERN STOVES

When used correctly with dry, seasoned firewood, a modern woodburning stove is carbon-neutral and emits very low levels of particulate matter. Advanced combustion technology ensures cleaner burns, both indoors and out.

You may have heard that woodburners contribute to 17 per cent of London’s emissions

but 70 per cent of that comes from open fires, not modern stoves. In fact, Ecodesign compliant stoves account for just one to two per cent of emissions, according to gov.uk.

BACKED BY SCIENCE

ESSE has been promoting clean-burning since the 1920s long before it was fashionable. Our patented twin catalytic combustion system re-burns smoke particles to reduce emissions and boost efficiency.

We work with researchers at the University of Manchester and York, studying how design, fuel and user behaviour impact stove emissions helping users burn smarter and cleaner.

WHAT ABOUT INDOOR AIR?

Surprisingly, more particulates can come from cooking, burning candles or using deodorant than from a properly used stove. Even the London Wood-Burning Project, which is critical of woodburning, reported no increase in indoor PM2.5 from modern stoves, sometimes even a decrease, thanks to the way these stoves draw air up the flue.

HEATING THAT SUPPORTS A LOW CARBON FUTURE

Wood is a renewable, carbon-neutral fuel releasing only the CO 2 it absorbed while growing. That makes it a far cry from fossil fuels.

Since 2022, only Ecodesign compliant stoves, the cleanest available, can legally be sold in the UK. At ESSE, we went even further, future-proofing our products to exceed emissions standards.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Choose a certified, modern stove (Ecodesign compliant)

• Burn only clean, dry wood (under 20 per cent moisture)

• Service your stove and sweep your chimney regularly

• Never burn waste or treated wood

READ BEYOND THE HEADLINES

In the Ribble Valley and the Dales, we value sustainable living and our countryside. There’s still a place for responsible woodburning, but we must distinguish between outdated habits and modern solutions.

So next time you see a worrying headline, look a little deeper. Because not all woodburners are created equal. n

“A meticulously organised space begins with understanding its purpose and creating a well-proportioned design that balances form and function.”

WALK-IN PANTRY VS HOUSE HIDEAWAY

Imagine rows of neat Kilner jars and colourful spices stacked in perfect order—but for most of us, the reality is spaghetti falling out of stuffed cupboards or last-minute dashes to buy items we already had (or that expired two years ago). But there’s a smarter way to store that can be a game-changer - adding a pantry or house hideaway to your kitchen. Gone are the days when a pantry was a cold, dark space for hanging meat and storing perishables through the winter. Now it’s a multi-functional room with designated storage, they feature shelves, drawers, work surface and can even double up as a utility or boot room.

A beautifully proportioned house hideaway, uses much less space, can be built in or stand-alone and includes bespoke storage options to suit your specific needs. Folding doors conceal many of the features you find in a pantry: spice racks; drawers; and work surface.

Richard Mason, Furniture Designer and Owner of The Secret Drawer, explains, “Sometimes we have the luxury of turning an adjacent room into a pantry. More often, walk-in pantries are created within an existing kitchen space. Richard continues, “The key is considered design that does not sacrifice too much space and creates the illusion that the pantry has always been there.”

He adds, “Every project is different, and with our expertise, built over decades, we create bespoke designs that match the customer’s specific needs and the available space.”

The secret to a successful pantry is utilising all available space. Bespoke ladders on rails ensure that even the highest shelves are accessible safely and easily. If there isn’t space for a walk-in pantry, you can still get the same functionality with a bespoke freestanding or built-in house hideaway. With space at a premium, it’s important to understand how the customer will use it.

Richard continues, “One customer was excited when he saw the bespoke design for his house hideaway as he realised the worktop was purposefully made low enough to ‘perch on’ and chat.

The Secret Drawer are designers and makers of bespoke interiors for every room in the home.

A pantry or house hideaway stores essentials and reduces kitchen clutter, so they should be both functional and visually appealing. secret-drawer.co.uk

MEET THE DESIGNER

With firm roots now planted in the creative bustle of historic Skipton, a celebrated artist and textile designer has found a place – and pace –which perfectly echo the arc of her imaginative and purpose-filled life, writes Katie Hammond. Photography: Jo Denison

Joan Murray’s journey to the market town of Skipton has been anything but straightforward. She began her working life as a bank clerk before giving in to the insistent pull of her creative ambition. After heading to Belfast in the 1980s and attending art college there at a time when the city pulsed with energy, tension and change, she progressed on to the Royal College of Art in London, an experience which deepened her understanding of textiles as both an art form and as a concept. Marriage later brought her north to Yorkshire, where she continued to build on the foundations of a life in the arts which she so craved.

IT’S ABOUT LIBERATING THEM AND HELPING TO DISCOVER STORYTELLING THROUGH TEXTILES AND THROUGH ART. I TREASURE PASSING ON THE SKILLS THAT I’VE LEARNED, SO THEY CAN SEE THEIR WORK THROUGH A WIDER LENS

The next 22 years saw her teaching art, fashion and textiles at Craven College –an experience which Joan describes as transformative: “It gave me massive confidence. I love people and I thrived on seeing each student’s idea develop into something uniquely theirs.”

Teaching, for Joan, was never a one-way street. The creative exchange in the classroom, the unfolding of ideas and the challenge of nurturing others helped shape and define her own artistic voice. Alongside teaching, she ran a small knitwear business – her personal creative outlet – which garnered such enthusiastic support that in 2022, she finally made the leap to become a full-time artist and textile designer: “It was exactly the

right time for me – I realised I was stepping into my life’s purpose.”

Joan’s Skipton studio, equal parts workshop and sanctuary, is a physical expression of that purpose. Two knitting machines hum with the beginnings of garments, while a loom stands ready for weaving fabrics destined for installations and wall hangings. Paintings and observational drawings fill the space, reflecting the visual curiosity which fuels her work across different mediums. She regularly offers work experience placements to young creatives and sees this as central to her practice: “It’s about liberating them and helping to discover storytelling through textiles and through art. I treasure passing on the skills that I’ve learned, so they can see their work through a wider lens.”

Joan’s current project sees her fully immersed in the landscape, tidal patterns and ecclesiastical history of the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. After studying the island’s sixth-century scholars, she found herself astonished by the parallels between the natural textures of seaweed and lichen and the intricate geometry of early medieval pattern-making. She is currently researching the Lindisfarne Gospels, particularly the repeat patterns, which are filtering into her woven pieces and knitted forms. “You can almost see what they saw,” she says. “Their vision, in a way, becomes yours.”

Joan’s own Christian beliefs also inform her work from the perspective of a deep historical and aesthetic lineage. She is fascinated by how Christianity arrived in the UK and how its stories, rituals and symbols were translated into visual language. This spiritual dimension weaves

subtly through her textiles, drawings and collaborative exhibitions.

Collaboration, in fact, is at the heart of everything Joan creates. She sees garments as incomplete until they are worn, animated by an individual’s movement style and individual interpretation. A young fine-artist friend paints customers wearing the knitted collections, capturing them engaged in their creative pursuits – musicians at the piano and dancers mid-gesture. Joan recently commissioned two performers from a northern contemporary dance company and brought in visual artists to paint and draw the dancers performing in her garments. Celtic-inspired wrapping, folding, twisting and turning become choreographic as much as textile focused.

Joan believes deeply that art should be immersive. For her, an exhibition is not

merely a room full of objects, but a multisensory encounter. Music, movement, storytelling, textiles and light all form a tapestry of experience. She is drawn to artistic environments which surround visitors in colour, texture and sound, where art is not just seen but felt.

PEOPLE, CREATIVITY, EXPRESSION AND COLLABORATION – ALL OF THESE THINGS ARE MY TRUE CALLING

Her work has earned recognition over the years, including acquisitions by the Victoria & Albert Museum and lengths of her fabric purchased by The Whitworth. Yet for Joan, business is always secondary and sometimes comes as a surprise to her: “People, creativity, expression and collaboration – all these things are my true calling.”

In every project, Joan moves with openness, with curators, community, students, dancers and painters all part of the evergrowing rich tapestry surrounding her. Back in her studio, scraps and remnants of other pieces become woven diaries, recording experiments, stories and fragments of the creative process.

For Joan Murray, life and art are inseparable. Both are acts of weaving – threads of experience, faith, landscape, collaboration and conversation transformed into something beautifully, energetically whole. n

Joan has an exhibition in Skipton’s Holy Trinity Church cafe until the end of January 2026.

joanmurray.co.uk

COSY CLASSICS

A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION...

Awkward and hard to fit feet?

Perhaps

it’s time to book an appointment and visit awardwinning fitright footwear!

Photography: Kirsten Platt

If you struggle to find footwear that fits in an average high street shoe shop or need expert advice and help to find the right shoe, fitright footwear is a step in the right direction to finding comfortable, stylish footwear that fits.

At fitright footwear you will find an amazing range of footwear for men and women in a range of widths, depths and sizes rarely found on the high street. There is nothing worse than being unable to find shoes that fit and at fitright footwear our knowledgeable, professionally trained team will guide you through the process of finding the right footwear for your feet.

We are familiar with feet which have all sorts of problems – bunions, hammer toes, arthritis, Morton’s neuroma and plantar fasciitis are just some of the most common problems we come across and our shoes have removable insoles to accommodate orthotics. Painful feet are no fun and if our feet are hurting, they are trying to tell us something. Most feet get longer, flatter and

wider over time which means that the size we think we are might not be the case at all and the very reason your feet are sore.

However, even if you don’t have problems with your feet and just want to be fitted with quality, beautiful, stylish and comfortable shoes we are the shop for you.

PAINFUL FEET ARE NO FUN AND IF OUR FEET ARE HURTING, THEY ARE TRYING TO TELL US SOMETHING

Your appointment includes a complimentary 45-minute professional measuring and fitting service and invaluable product knowledge and advice. We are dedicated to helping our customers think differently about what they put on their feet.

After all what your head wants is not

necessarily what your feet need.

Our brands include Joya, Finn Comfort, Waldlaufer, Legero and Fidelio in a variety of styles with rocker, lace and zip, Velcro fastening and stretch options to suit all sorts of different feet.

At fitright footwear we provide an outstanding service rarely found in other shoe shops and never online. We are passionate about feet and footwear, ensuring our customers leave with a smile on their face and their feet – because they have shoes that fit comfortably and are fit for purpose.

Whether you have hard to fit feet or not, don’t leave it too long to think about your foot comfort for the cooler days ahead. Make sure you book your appointment early enough to ensure you get the opportunity to find and choose great footwear from our new autumn and winter range.

Fitright footwear – with you every step of the way. n

Appointments only:

Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

Fitright Footwear

3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172

harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

fitrightfootwear.co.uk

comfort.fit.style _fitright

ORTIGIA PERFUME ROLL ON £20

Bronte’s Clitheroe 01254 945082

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

GILPIN SERENE SPA EXPERIENCE FROM £105

ESPA or Pure Lakes spa treatments can feature anything from a sensory aromatherapy massage to a rejuvenating facial.Gilpin 01539 488818 thegilpin.co.uk

WINTER GLOW-UP

Surround yourself with a seasonal beauty collection that includes fragrant candles, nourishing skin care and luxurious perfume

ELEMIS THE MAGIC OF PRO-COLLAGEN GIFT SET £249

Includes Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, Energising Marine Cleanser, Future Restore Serum, Marine Cream and Night Cream. The Spa Hotel Ribby Hall Village ribbyhall.co.uk

TEMPLE SPA TRUFFLE BRILLIANCE SKIN CARE GIFT SET £60

Includes Skin Truffle 15ml, Truffle Noir 15ml, Trufflelixir 10ml, Golden Glow 5ml, Body Truffle 50ml. thewoodlandspa.com

ALLSKIN MED ANTI-AGEING GF REGENERATING AMPOULES £90

MEDIK8 R-RETINOATE INTENSE YOUTH

ACTIVATING CREAM £229

A masterpiece of simplicity. Discover the most powerful anti-ageing product Medik8 have ever made. Melt 01200 443377 themeltco.com

Features SCA® PRO patented technology rich in growth factors with regenerating and re-densifying properties to increase skin firmness and elasticity and reduce expression lines and wrinkles. Discover Laser 01282 420886 discoverlaser.co.uk

THE MUSES BE CANDLE 110g £34

Features green florals and wild grass with a citrus sparkle.Isobel interiors 01282 942193 isobelinteriors.co.uk

NEOM CHRISTMAS WISH RANGE FROM £21

With a comforting blend of 100% natural mandarin, cinnamon and tonka bean, the Christmas Wish scent is Neom’s most traditional festive fragrance. The Woodland Spa 01282 471913 thewoodlandspa.com

BAOBAB HAND WASH AND BODY LOTION £130

This has a top note of rum associated with saffron with an amber and oriental scent.

Michelle B 01282 605060 michellebshop.co.uk

THE SOMERSET TOILETRY CO

CHRISTMAS MINI PAMPER SET HOUSE £9.95 booths.co.uk

Improves appearance and functionality of the skin

Non-invasive with minimal downtime

LIFE-CHANGING LASER

After years of hiding his nose and losing confidence, Brett discovered UltraPulse laser treatment at Discover Laser and finally found relief, recovery and a reason to smile again

Characterised by thickened, uneven skin on the nose, rhinophyma often develops from untreated or severe rosacea. Commonly affecting men over 40, it can leave anyone feeling self-conscious and unsure where to turn for treatment.

Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic offers life-changing treatment for rhinophyma using UltraPulse CO2 laser, a powerful tool in dermatology.

Rhinophyma typically presents as a bulbous, enlarged nose with thickened skin and visible pores. In advanced cases, the excess tissue can obstruct nasal airflow, causing functional and aesthetic concerns.

Dr Montero explains: “UltraPulse is ideal for rhinophyma, it allows me to target thickened skin with incredible precision. Unlike surgery, it’s minimally invasive and preserves healthy structures. The results can be transformative not just cosmetically, but emotionally and functionally too.”

One patient, Brett, explains how his treatment has made all the diffference:

“I first realised I had a problem about 2016 with the swelling on the side of my right nostril. After about two years, I was referred to a private surgeon who did not want to have anything to do with the problem.

“The last two years have been horrible. The growth was accelerating in size and would occasionally bleed. I got to a stage where I dreaded social interaction, although as an accountant in private practice, I did have to deal with face-to-face interviews with clients. My mental health was, without me being fully aware, being affected. I was

also finding that my nostril was blocking, interfering with my breathing and also my nose was constantly streaming.

“I was at a stage this year where I did not think anything could be done. Then my neighbour saw an article in a magazine for Discover Laser... It seemed that there were other people with similar problems and there was a possibility of treatment.

“From the moment I telephoned for an appointment the experience was really positive... Miguel not only put me at ease but took one look at the nose and his opinion was that Laser treatment would work!

“The process was not painful and within minutes the growth had gone. The recovery was straightforward... the change within three weeks was remarkable. My breathing is better and my nose has stopped running.

“I’ve been given my life back. Everyone, friends and family, are amazed! To anyone with this sort of problem, I would say do not hesitate to contact Discover Laser. I will always be indebted to them.”

Discover Laser is a trusted destination for advanced dermatological skin care in the North West. If you or someone you know is living with rhinophyma, there’s no need to feel resigned to the condition.

With expert care and advanced laser treatments, Doctor Montero can help restore both appearance and confidence.

To book your private RHINOPHYMA CONSULTATION with Dr Montero, call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886

THE PROCESS WAS NOT PAINFUL AND WITHIN MINUTES THE GROWTH HAD GONE. THE RECOVERY WAS STRAIGHTFORWARD... THE CHANGE WITHIN THREE WEEKS WAS REMARKABLE...

I’VE BEEN GIVEN MY LIFE BACK. EVERYONE, FRIENDS AND FAMILY, ARE AMAZED!

~ BRETT, DISCOVER LASER PATIENT ~

talking with trusted friends who can offer perspective. Choose those friends wisely, those that will be direct with you, tell you things you may not want to, but may need to hear with empathy and kindness.

ESTABLISH A NEW ROUTINE

Much of the emotional turmoil following a divorce comes from the sudden change in lifestyle. You may feel unanchored or unsure of what your days look like without your former partner. Creating a new routine can help bring structure and a sense of control. Start with small, consistent habits – a morning walk or preparing your meals to re-establish a rhythm.

MIND MATTERS

It is not the end but the beginning. Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes explains how we can move on after a failed marriage or relationship

Divorce can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences in life. It often represents the end of a significant chapter, filled with shared memories, hopes and plans. Even when it’s the right decision, the aftermath can be confusing and painful. Processing a divorce mentally and moving on involves acceptance, emotional healing, self-discovery and growth. It can follow the process of grief after the loss of a loved one and we need to understand the mixed emotions that can arise on that journey. I specialise in that period of adjustment and re-birth and help individuals move into the future with optimism. At this moment in time this may feel like a pipe dream. That is why I have put together this structured guide to take you forward.

ACKNOWLEDGE THE LOSS

The first step in mentally processing a divorce is acknowledging that it is, in many ways, a loss not just of a partner, but of a shared future, routine, identity as part of a couple and sometimes extended family and friendships. Allow yourself to grieve. This could include sadness, anger, guilt, relief and confusion, or all of the above. Trying to suppress them only prolongs the healing process.

RARELY IS A DIVORCE THE RESULT OF A SINGLE PERSON’S ACTIONS

AVOID SELF-BLAME AND RESENTMENT

It’s easy to fall into the trap of blaming yourself or your ex for everything that went wrong. However, rarely is a divorce the result of a single person’s actions. Relationships are complex and multiple factors usually contribute to their breakdown. While it’s helpful to reflect on what went wrong to grow from the experience, self-punishment or holding onto resentment keeps you emotionally tied to the past. Aim instead for understanding and personal growth.

PRIORITISE MENTAL HEALTH

Divorce can trigger anxiety, depression or a sense of worthlessness. Talking to a therapist can provide a safe space to unpack your emotions, reframe negative thoughts and develop coping strategies. If therapy isn’t an option, consider joining a support group or

RECONNECT WITH YOURSELF

In a long-term relationship, it’s easy to lose parts of your identity, especially following a marriage that was controlling or that you tried hard to save. Revisit hobbies you used to enjoy, explore new interests or take on personal challenges.

SET

BOUNDARIES AND LIMIT CONTACT

Constant contact, checking social media or trying to maintain a friendship too soon with your ex can keep wounds open. If you have children together, focus communication strictly on co-parenting and set clear guidelines to protect your emotional space.

PRACTICE FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing hurtful behaviour or pretending the pain didn’t happen. It means letting go of the need for revenge, justice or prolonged anger. Holding onto bitterness only weighs you down. Forgive yourself for mistakes made and forgive your ex for theirs. This is one of the most difficult, yet freeing steps in the healing process.

EMBRACE THE FUTURE

Set new goals, envision a life that excites you and take steps toward building it. Remember that the end of a marriage is not the end of your story — it’s the beginning of a new chapter. n

Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.

HELPING YOU SMILE WITH CONFIDENCE

Why choose Portman Smile Clinic Ilkley? A clinic spokesperson describes what they offer.

Our practice is conveniently located in the heart of beautiful Ilkley, in an impressive Grade II listed building set within landscaped grounds. There is designated on-site parking and there are excellent transport links from surrounding areas, making it easy to visit us whether you live in Ilkley itself or travel from nearby towns and villages.

We provide first-class treatments and patient care in a comfortable and friendly environment – and we’re equipped with high-quality dental facilities and technology, so you have access to advanced products and techniques.

As a specialist orthodontic practice, we focus on teeth straightening for adults and

Photography: Bevan Cockerill WE PROVIDE

children. Whether you’re interested in Invisalign® clear aligners, traditional fixed braces, more discreet clear braces or braces hidden behind the teeth, our team will talk you through the options and recommend the solution that fits your lifestyle, budget and clinical needs.

Our warm and welcoming orthodontic practice for NHS and private patients in Ilkley is designed around your comfort. Light, modern surgeries, digital scanning technology and a calm, relaxed atmosphere help to make every visit as smooth and

stress-free as possible. For added convenience, we offer early-morning and evening appointments and our fully accessible building and onsite parking make it easy to visit us from the surrounding area.

Our specialist orthodontists, Dr Trevor Hodge and Dr Carolyn Vincent, have many years of experience straightening teeth and managing even complex cases. Supported by a skilled team of orthodontic therapists and nurses, they take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions and create a personalised treatment plan, so you can be confident you’re in expert hands throughout your smile journey.

After your braces or aligners come off, we’ll continue to look after your smile with a tailored aftercare plan and retainers to help keep your teeth beautifully straight. Our aim is not just to transform your smile, but to give you the knowledge and support you need to maintain your results for years to come. We also offer flexible payment options, including interest-free finance, to help make specialist orthodontic care more affordable and accessible.

Many patients choose to begin with a free, no-obligation conversation about their smile, giving them the opportunity to meet the team, explore treatment options and ask any questions before deciding how to proceed. n

• Portman straightforward (fixed braces exclusively for under 18s – without the wait)

• Teeth whitening (for over 18s only)

The Skipton Audiologist

The Skipton Audiologist in collaboration with Claire Benton Audiology provide exceptional hearing care in the heart of Skipton for all your family. Together, we're committed to enhancing your hearing. Keeping you connected to those who matter most this Christmas.

Hearing tests

Ear wax removal

Hearing technology

Tinnitus and sound sensitivity support and advice

Experience the independent difference at:

taker.com www.drkimwhitaker.com

ADHD develops in childhood and about two thirds of children carry the disorder into adulthood. The way the symptoms present tends to change over time; in adults, symptoms can be more subtle. Common presenting symptoms are appearing chaotic, poor time management, erratic moods, forgetfulness and distractibility. We often see co -occurring conditions, particularly with undiagnosed ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.

AUTISM - ASD

Autism is a Neurodevelopment condition; it begins in childhood and is lifelong. It effects social communication and is associated with restricted and repetitive behaviours and sensory sensitivities.

Dr Whitaker is HCPC registered and is recognised with: and many more private health organisations. Assessments available within 3/4 weeks.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

Pairing today’s breakthrough weight management treatments with unique person-centred care is the key to sustainable, life-changing results at Ilkley’s award-winning Jacqui Mac Medispa, discovers Kate Bowyer in conversation with clinic owner Jackie McGarry

Finding your healthy, comfortable weight isn’t simply about appearance – it’s confidence, energy and overall wellbeing, too. But finding the balance in today’s busy world can be difficult, especially with the increasing availability of modern weight management products on offer. How can you be confident which is the safe, maintainable and effective choice for you?

That’s what makes award-winning Jacqui Mac Medispa the perfect choice, offering not just leading-edge weight management

treatments, but a 360-degree modern, holistic weight management programme tailored exclusively to your medical history, metabolism, health goals and lifestyle.

Conveniently located on The Grove, in the heart of bustling Ilkley, owner Jackie devoted 14 years as a NHS Advanced Nurse Practitioner specialising in aesthetic therapies before opening her own clinic in 2018. Uniquely registered in the area with independent regulator the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Jackie personally leads her handpicked team of skilled, understanding medical nurses and therapists to offer you the very best treatments, clinical hygiene, advice, results and aftercare.

From welcoming initial consultation and no-obligation expert advice, to fully supported ongoing treatment plans, stepping into your lighter, brighter future has never been so comfortable, easy and assured.

“We offer an individual-focused, ongoing weight management service, not a one-stop shop,” says Jackie. “Supporting our clients to sustainable, health and life-enhancing results, whether your optimum programme length is 12 weeks or 12 months.”

After a thorough assessment and medical history review to ensure 100 per cent safety

and suitability (to be eligible you must have a minimum BMI of 27), individual treatment programmes including weekly injectable medication are supported by regular face-toface clinical check-ins with your personal nurse prescriber.

“With anything this personal, this important and this potentially life-changing, people are right to be wary of basic services or online products from non-accredited providers,” advises Jackie. “We are registered and regulated to the highest level, offering reputable treatments in a safe, clinical environment and as committed as you to your individual goals, journey, comfort and satisfaction.”

WE ARE REGISTERED AND REGULATED TO THE HIGHEST LEVEL, OFFERING REPUTABLE TREATMENTS IN A SAFE, CLINICAL ENVIRONMENT

With hundreds of delighted clients and impressive results, once on the path to your weight management goals, you can also take advantage of the extensive range of aesthetic treatments offered by Jacqui Mac Medispa. From thread-lifting, non-surgical facelifting, anti-wrinkle and volumising collagen fillers, to state-of-the-art ultrasound and plasma therapy, all designed to subtly restore and enhance your natural beauty, tone and confidence.

Whether you are giving yourself the gift of well-being this Christmas, or planning to step into a healthier and more confident 2026, it all begins with the warm, confidential welcome you’ll find waiting at Jacqui Mac Medispa. Book your personalised initial consultation by phone or online. n

58 The Grove, Ilkley LS29 9PA 01943 618118

jacquimacaesthetics@gmail.com jacquimac.com

/jacquimacaesthetics

NUTRITION WITH KELI

December is full of treats, but that doesn’t mean you can’t eat smart and enjoy it, writes Keli Thompson

Christmas tends to bring out our most enthusiastic side when it comes to food. It’s so easy to think December is one long food bonanza between the mince pies and cheese boards that could feed a small army. But what if Christmas doesn’t have to mean rolling into January feeling sluggish? The good news is you can absolutely have your pudding and eat it! It’s all about a bit of balance, a few smart swaps or upgrades and remembering that festive food doesn’t have to be a nutritional write-off.

First things first, let’s ditch the guilt altogether. One day of indulgence isn’t the problem – what usually catches us out is the month-long snack fest leading up to it. Keep your normal eating patterns through most of December, with regular meals and plenty of colour on your plate. Then, when the big day comes, enjoy it properly and have the roast potatoes, the vegetables and the dessert.

When it comes to the main event, Christmas dinner is actually very good for you, nutritionally speaking. Roast turkey or fish is lean protein, the veg sides are packed with vitamins and even the gravy has its place.

ONE DAY OF INDULGENCE ISN’T THE PROBLEM – WHAT USUALLY CATCHES US OUT IS THE MONTH-LONG SNACK FEST LEADING UP TO IT

Who says gravy can’t steal the spotlight, by the way? It’s actually delicious if you make it the proper way, using the roast turkey juices or a splash of bone broth instead of instant granules. Jamie Oliver has a gorgeous version where the chicken or turkey roasts over a bed of vegetables and those caramelised vegetables and drippings become the base for the most incredible, flavour-packed gravy. You’re not skipping gravy – that would be cruel – you’re just elevating it! A little upgrade that adds flavour and nourishment proves festive food can be comforting and clever too.

Snacking is where things can go off the rails pretty fast. Keep a bowl of nuts and clementines around your home so it’s not just chocolates and crisps within reach. You’ll still feel festive, but with fewer sugar crashes. And don’t underestimate the power of hydration because we often mistake thirst for hunger (mulled wine doesn’t count sadly). Keep a big glass of water available between celebratory drinks and you’ll feel the difference. If you’re heading to parties, eat something before you go, even if it’s a small bowl of soup or a bit of protein. Trust me, you’re less likely to ingest 12 canapés the second they appear – we’ve all been there! And if you’re hosting, include a few lighter bites alongside the usual favourites. Think smoked salmon blinis, fresh veggie skewers or spiced nuts instead of endless pre-made, ultra-processed, pastry-based options.

Finally, remember that Christmas is about connection not just consumption! Go for a walk with family or friends after lunch, get everyone involved in silly games, or dance to your favourite festive music in the kitchen. Movement helps digestion, lifts your mood and reminds you that the holidays are meant to be fun, not a food-related endurance test. So yes, enjoy the trimmings, the chocolate and even the leftovers with a little mindfulness. Feeling good in January is the best gift you can give yourself, so add a few of these little hacks to prevent that end-of-season slump. n

nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com nutritionwithkeli

Have you ever struggled to get your kids excited about the prospect of tearing themselves away from the sofa or the screen and getting outside? Well, I certainly have! Most of us will have experienced some lack of enthusiasm when it comes to the suggestion of a wholesome family walk. But cast your mind back to 2020, to a time when the only entertainment available WAS to head out on that dreaded walk. The prospect of the arduous torture that was fresh air and exercise was regularly met with the phrase

THE SETTLE CAVES ADVENTURE

If you’re looking for a family friendly walk that’s been ‘kid approved’ in the Yorkshire Dales, then look no further. Samantha Brown from The Reluctant Explorers tells us more

‘NO! NOT ANOTHER BORING WALK!’ by my then four and six year olds. They were right. It was boring doing the same walks over and over again, so I took myself to the hive mind of the internet to

THE PERFECT FAMILY WALK FORMULA? A WALK WITH A PURPOSE, WHETHER THAT BE A COOL CAVE TO EXPLORE (SAFELY I MIGHT ADD), A SECRET WATERFALL TO HUNT DOWN OR A PEAK TO BAG

seek inspiration and a solution. What I was surprised to find was that whilst there were plenty of suggestions for wonderfully challenging hikes around the Dales, it

was sadly lacking in the family friendly department.

So rather than sitting back and dooming myself to endless years of unenthusiastic wanderings with the kids, I harnessed my love of hiking and the outdoors and set to work. The result – www.thereluctantexplorers.com –which now contains over 100 ‘kid approved’ walks in and around the Yorkshire Dales, so no other parent would have to endure the ‘not ANOTHER boring walk’ complaint again.

The perfect family walk formula? A walk with a purpose, whether that be a cool cave to explore (safely I might add), a secret waterfall to hunt down or a peak to bag. I am told by my two Reluctant Explorers that a park is preferable, ice cream is a bonus and if there’s also hot chocolate, then even better. They also regularly remind me about the crucial

hiking snacks (and I can confirm that a family friendly pub at the end is ideal too!).

The Settle Caves Adventure is a walk that delivers on all those levels and it’s one of our favourites.

Did you know that high above the beautiful market town of Settle are a series of caves that were so full of incredible archaeological finds, that they attracted the attention of the esteemed scientist Charles Darwin?

This five mile circular walk begins in the town centre then heads up and out onto the Pennine Way, before heading in the direction of Attermire scar. Admittedly, the initial climb will need serious snacks, it’s a steep one, but thankfully it’s short!

WHEN YOU TELL THE KIDS THAT HIPPOS, ELEPHANTS, REINDEER AND HYENAS ONCE ROAMED AROUND SETTLE, YOU’LL HAVE YOURSELF A CONVERSATION THAT WILL LAST YOU ALL THE WAY BACK TO TOWN!

Attermire Scar is a series of limestone outcrops, punctuated with slopes of scree and it also has several caves, Victoria and Jubilee being the easiest to find and access. There is a path that runs along the base of the scar and after a short distance you’ll encounter the gaping entrance of Victoria Cave, elevated on the hill side to your right. You can reach it by walking up a narrow, but very defined track or choose to admire it from a distance!

If you choose to take a peek inside, then tell the kids what was once found there. When Victoria cave was quite literally stumbled upon by a local tinsmith in 1837,

he was shocked to discover coins and bones inside a small wormhole. Once excavated, the spoils of the cave included Romano-British artefacts as well as the fossilised bones of hippos and elephants which dated back over 120,000 years! There were hunting spears dating back over 11,000 years and the remains of hyenas and reindeer. Quite the find!

Head onwards to Jubilee Cave and you’ll discover some more caves to explore, just remember to take your head torch and helmet as these are a little smaller than Victoria.

When you tell the kids that hippos, elephants, reindeer and hyenas once roamed around Settle, you’ll have yourself a conversation that will last you all the way back to town!

On your return to Settle, celebrate your adventures with a trip to the park (there is a small one in Upper Settle on the return to Greenfoot car park or a larger one next to Booths). Of course in town, you will be faced with an entire range of options when it comes to cake, ice cream, hot chocolate or maybe even a trip to a cosy pub! n

For a full route description head to: thereluctantexplorers.com

PROTECTING BIRDS OF PREY

Keeping your eyes on the skies may help to prevent wildlife crime, writes Victoria Benn

Aglimpse of certain animals and birds can be a life affirming treat, inspiring awe about the majesty of nature, with boxing hares, vaulting deer and birds of prey being top of many people’s lists. Quite right then that the illegal killing of birds of prey has been outlawed for the last 70 years. So why are the numbers of these species continuing to decline in the Yorkshire Dales, with some now classified as rare or ‘red list’ on the watch list for UK Birds of Conservation Concern?

“It is appalling that birds like the hen harrier, kestrel and buzzard continue to be shot, trapped and poisoned in our National Park – a place that should be a sanctuary for wildlife,” says Jonathan Riley, Chair of Friends of the Dales.

“With the Yorkshire Dales now ranking as one of the UK’s top blackspots for birds of prey persecution, our campaign aims to

celebrate their magnificence but also shine a spotlight on their vulnerability. Additionally, as apex predators, their presence signals a healthy natural environment and conversely, their absence is a warning that our National Park is not as biodiverse as it could and should be.”

THEIR ABSENCE IS A WARNING THAT OUR NATIONAL PARK IS NOT AS BIODIVERSE AS IT COULD AND SHOULD BE

Friends of the Dales new campaign aims to raise awareness that wildlife crimes are continuing to be committed. It also amplifies the vital work of organisations like the National Wildlife Crime Unit, RSPB and Hen Harrier Action, to educate people in how to spot and report any suspicious or illegal activity they might see when out enjoying the Dales. The campaign also hopes to inspire people to learn more about the birds themselves and why they are vital to a healthy upland.

“Because these crimes are generally committed in rural areas, they can go undetected or there is insufficient evidence

to enable a successful prosecution. More awareness will mean more eyes on the skies –more people alert to the signs of persecution or potential persecution to look out for and report,” adds Jonathan.

Signs to report include: Dead birds of prey lying next to dead rabbits, or other poisoned baits (DO NOT TOUCH); live birds of prey caught in any trap; spring traps set out in the open that are not within a cage tunnel or other enclosed tunnel structure; spring traps set out on top of a post – known as ‘pole traps’. If you see a dead bird or suspicious object, treat it as a potential wildlife crime scene –do not disturb the scene, but photograph it, note the location and phone the police nonemergency number of 101. n To keep up to date with this campaign and any future events visit: friendsofthedales.org.uk

A TIMELESS WELCOME

For many generations The Coach House, in Bolton-by-Bowland, has served as a staging post for travellers. Now it is being lovingly restored to offer beautiful accommodation to modern-day visitors

Set in the heart of the beautiful Ribble Valley, The Coach & Horses in Bolton-by-Bowland is a place where tradition and hospitality blend together seamlessly. With its charming blend of heritage, craftsmanship and delicious food and drink, this award-winning coaching inn is a destination in its own right – and now, an exciting new chapter is about to begin. Directly opposite The Coach stands The Coach House (pictured right), a historic building that once served as a stopping point for travellers long before the age of cars and railways. In those days, horse-drawn coaches carried people, goods and even the latest news across the region, pausing at establishments like The Coach House to rest and change horses. Local lore tells of coaches travelling from Clitheroe through the Trough of Bowland to Morecambe, returning with fresh seafood for the surrounding villages –a testament to the vital role places like this once played in connecting rural Lancashire. Centuries later, that same spirit of care and connection lives on. The Coach House, which was converted from a hay barn and shippon towards the end of the last century, is now being lovingly restored by the team behind The Coach & Horses. Once complete, it will offer beautiful accommodation finished

to the same exceptional standard as the seven bedrooms available across the road.

Inside, guests will discover three elegant bedrooms – two with king-sized beds and one with a double – each thoughtfully designed for comfort and style. The main bedroom, with its en-suite shower and freestanding bath,

THIS MUCH-LOVED INN HAS BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH OUTSTANDING FOOD, RELAXED LUXURY AND A TRUE SENSE OF PLACE

promises a touch of luxury, while the warm interiors and considered details will make the space feel every bit as inviting as the landscapes outside. With a spacious kitchen, dining area and living room, The Coach House will be ideal for families or small groups looking to enjoy a rural escape in one of the

most picturesque corners of the Dales. Across the road, The Coach & Horses itself continues to thrive. Since its renovation in 2016, this much-loved inn has become synonymous with outstanding food, relaxed luxury and a true sense of place. Locally sourced produce shapes the menus, while the on-site microbrewery brings a unique dimension to the experience. Earlier this autumn, the team proudly launched their first brew under the new ownership – the Coachman Best Bitter – crafted under the expert guidance of local brewer Dr Will Weston. The beer, brewed in small batches of around 14 kegs at a time, has already been warmly received by regulars and visitors alike.

With roaring fires, exceptional dining and rooms that blend rustic charm with refined comfort, The Coach & Horses offers everything you’d hope to find in a traditional country inn – and now, with the addition of The Coach House, there’s even more reason to linger a little longer in beautiful Bolton-by-Bowland. n

The Coach & Horses

Main Street, Bolton By Bowland BB7 4NW 01200 447331

coachandhorsesribblevalley.co.uk

ESTATE LIFE

Gisburne Park Estate is owned and managed by Guy and Amber Hindley, who are converting it into a thriving five-star resort

Hidden within the rolling countryside of the Ribble Valley, Gisburne Park Estate has established itself as one of Lancashire’s most captivating wedding destinations. Steeped in over 1,000 years of history and set on the banks of the River Ribble and the tranquil waters of Stock Beck, the estate offers a setting that feels both timeless and spectacularly wild.

At the heart of our wedding offering is the estate’s newest showpiece – a magnificent sail-tent set within a completely private 10-acre valley. Surrounded by ancient woodland, flowing water and open skies, it creates a natural amphitheatre that

instantly elevates any celebration. Although only a few months old, the sail-tent has already become one of the most sought-after venues in the region, attracting couples looking for a space that blends romance, exclusivity and nature in equal measure.

Every wedding booking includes full private use of the valley along with a charming six-bedroom Grade II listed cottage, allowing bridal parties to settle in and enjoy the estate

BEYOND

ESTATE

at their own pace. Beyond the valley, Gisburne Park Estate offers accommodation for more than 200 guests in luxury lodges, character cottages and larger country houses – one of the few venues in Lancashire able to host an entire wedding party on-site.

While weddings are at the core of our celebrations, the sail-tent is also available for a variety of other events. From private parties and milestone birthdays to corporate retreats, wellness weekends and

THE VALLEY, GISBURNE PARK

OFFERS ACCOMMODATION FOR MORE THAN 200 GUESTS IN LUXURY LODGES, CHARACTER COTTAGES AND LARGER COUNTRY HOUSES

creative brand launches, the space offers remarkable flexibility. Its riverside surroundings and open-plan layout make it ideal for anyone seeking an event that feels immersive, uplifting and truly away from it all.

What sets Gisburne Park Estate apart is the freedom it gives couples and clients to shape their perfect day. Whether it’s a candle-lit wedding reception beside the river, a photoshoot framed by ancient parkland, or a summer event under stars that reflect on the Ribble, the estate provides a canvas that feels endlessly inspiring.

Weekend availability for 2026 is already limited and early enquiries are encouraged. For updates, inspiration and behindthe-scenes content, follow our socials or contact us to arrange a private tour of the estate. n

Gisburne Park Estate

Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300

events@gisburneparkestate.co.uk gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis

@ribblesdalepark

@gisburneparkestate

Skipton’s Award-Winning Cruise Experts

We have handpicked this amazing bucket-list trip especially for our discerning guests, with exclusive savings of over £1760 per person on our special Blue Water group departure.

Delve deep into India’s fascinating historical & religious heritage

Join us on a captivating 13-night journey that combines the best of India’s cultural treasures and spiritual heritage in unparalleled style and comfort. Enjoy a 5-night guided tour of the iconic Golden Triangle destinations of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, followed by a 7-night luxury voyage along the revered Ganges River.

Departs 18 October 2027 Now

from just £6239pp!

Includes return international flights from Manchester! Was £7999pp - saving £1760pp

What’s Included

Dining

• Meals onboard prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients

• 12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 9 dinners

• Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners

• Complimentary house wine, local spirits and beer, soft drinks, tea and coffee will be served throughout the cruise. Onshore lunches include complimentary coffee and tea. Onshore dinners include complimentary house wine, local beer, soft drinks, coffee, and tea

Excursions

• 10 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts

Accommodation

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the elegant Ganges Voyager II

• Lavishly appointed riverview suites with private balconies

• 2 nights in New Delhi at The Oberoi New Delhi (or similar)

• 1 night in Agra at The Oberoi Amarvilas (or similar)

• 2 nights in Jaipur at The Oberoi Rajvilas (or similar)

Experiences

• 1 country: India

• 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites

• Services of an experienced Uniworld Tour Manager

• Complimentary Wellness Program on every sailing

• Cultural enrichment

• Return international flights from Manchester and internal flights Jaipur to Kolkata

• Gratuities for onboard and onshore personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager, local experts, drivers) are included both during the cruise/tour as well as on any pre- or post-cruise land extensions

India’s Golden Triangle & Sacred Ganges Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: New Delhi

Fly from Manchester to New Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport to be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the Oberoi New Delhi hotel.

Day 2: New Delhi

India’s sprawling capital city is colourful, confounding, and captivating. Your expertly led city tour provides an ideal first foray into this fascinating land. To cap your day taking in the sights of scenic New Delhi, relax this evening over a delicious dinner at the Oberoi.

Day 3: New Delhi, transfer to Agra

This morning you will check out of your New Delhi hotel and head south via motorcoach to Agra, the site of Shah Jahan’s best-known building project, the exquisite Taj Mahal. You’ll visit the Taj Mahal this afternoon and stay for sunset, as the monument’s changing colours draw comparisons to the shifting mood of the late Emperor’s wife.

Day 4: Agra, transfer to Jaipur

Is the Taj Mahal best seen at sunset or sunrise? It’s an impossible question to answer, so Uniworld guests have the rare pleasure of experiencing both. Wake up early this morning to see the white marble monument aglow with the rosy tinge of dawn. You’ll spend your next two nights at the beautiful Oberoi Rajvilas. The luxury hotel sits on 32 acres of landscaped gardens and is built around an ancient Shiva temple.

Day 5: Jaipur

Pink is the colour of hospitality in Rajasthan, which gives you an idea of what to expect in the “Pink City” of Jaipur.

Day 6: Jaipur, fly to Kolkata (Embark)

Settle into your beautifully appointed suite aboard the Ganges Voyager II to begin your India river cruise.

Day 7: Kalna

Kalna, once an important trade port on the river, is best known today for the magnificent Hindu temples built by the maharajas of Bardhamanwhich you’ll experience today. After marvelling at the astonishing Rajbari temple complex, you may opt to walk with your guide through the colourful local market.

Day 8: Matiari

Your ship serves as a time machine today, transporting you hundreds of years into the past, as we travel to the authentic artisan village of Matiari.

Day 9: Murshidabad, Baranagar

Today’s adventures take you to a duo of Bengali towns - Murshidabad and Baranagareach one boasting surprising and beautiful architectural monuments closely linked to the ruling families of the area.

Day 10: The Ganges, Khusbagh

One of the world’s most sacred bodies of water, the Ganges River flows through a myriad of small villages and highly populated cities

throughout India and Bangladesh. Take in the remarkable scenery as you sail and be on the lookout for a rare sighting of the endangered Ganges river dolphin.

Also today, watch as a skilled practitioner of mehndi demonstrates how the intricate henna patterns are created, and discover the meanings of the traditional motifs.

Day 11: Mayapur, Chandannagar

Few places of worship exist on such a headspinning scale as what you will witness today in Mayapur, the centre of the international Hare Krishna movement and home to the new Temple of the Vedic Planetarium, still under construction. Most students of history know a thing or two about the British colonial powers in India, but few are aware that the French had colonies here as well. You’ll visit this former French outpost today.

This evening, enjoy a Farewell dinner and take in a lively cultural dance performance, complete with music and dancing.

Day 12: Kolkata

The city of Kolkata is synonymous with the enduring legacies of Mother Teresa and the colonial-era British Raj, both of which you will get better acquainted with today.

Day 13: Kolkata (Disembark)

Your incredible Indian adventure ends early this morning, as you disembark and transfer to the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport for your flight home or extend your journey with an optional extension to Varanasi.

Treat yourself this Christmas!

Browse our collection of over 1000 cruises and call our friendly team of cruise experts to discuss your dream holiday. Then simply book your perfect cruise before 31 January 2026 and we will send you a bottle of champagne with our compliments!

Join our hundreds of happy customers and benefit from our wealth of cruise experience, superb exclusive offers, and discounts on fabulous holidays of a lifetime.

“ Booking through Blue Water feels like being in a special family - everyone is so helpful and kind. People rebook and rebook with Blue Water for a reason… lots of companies offer great holidays but very few offer the personal service of Blue Water. I look forward to planning another holiday with you in the not too distant future.”

LET’S TAKE A WALK…

This is a short walk from Hawes visiting the nearby village of Sedbusk and the hamlet of Hardraw where you can visit the spectacular Hardraw Force

Hawes is one of England’s highest market towns, sitting at about 850 feet above sea level and is situated at the head of Wensleydale, surrounded by stunning scenery including Buttertubs Pass, Fleet Moss and Hardraw Force, which can be visited on this walk. Hawes is also home of the world-famous Wensleydale Cheese, produced at the

Wensleydale Creamery where visitors can tour the creamery, enjoy tastings and explore its cheese.

This popular circular walk starts at Dales Countryside Museum, which offers a rich and immersive experience into the history, culture and landscape of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. With special exhibitions, events and interactive exhibits it’s well worth a visit either before or after your walk.

HAWES CIRCULAR WALK

Distance: Three and a half miles

Parking: Dales Countryside Museum, Station Yard, Burtersett Road

Toilets: Dales Countryside Museum Car Park

Refreshments: Hawes

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

1. Leave the museum and head north out of the town, across Haylands Bridge.

2. Turn west across open fields and on towards Hardraw.

3. Once in Hardraw it’s possible to drop into the 13th Century Green Dragon Inn and to visit Hardraw Falls (for an admission fee). Hardraw Falls famously featured in the 1991 blockbuster movie, Robin Hood Prince

of Thieves and is where Kevin Costner took a ‘dip’.

4. The walk continues along the front of Simonstone Hall Hotel and onto the pretty hamlet of Sedbusk which sits in the shadow of Stags Fell, once a site for quarrying Yoredale Sandstone and even had a small colliery for lime burning.

5. The walk then leaves the village and heads back down the side of the Dale and on into Hawes. n

Discover more about the history, landscape, wildlife and culture of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, including many other walking routes, at: yorkshiredales.org.uk

James’ Places award-winning collection of hospitality venues offers the perfect retreat for a walking break or simply taking in the beauty of the British countryside.

Each of our venues is unique yet they share a passion for fabulous food, great service and a warm, friendly ambience. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the trails or relaxation by a real fire, our places provide the ideal backdrop for your perfect getaway.

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Retirement isn’t what it used to be. We’re working longer, living longer and have so many different ways to use our pension pot. All the more reason to get the experts involved.

Retirement isn’t what it used to be. We’re working longer, living longer and have so many different ways to use our pension pot. All the more reason to get the experts involved.

These days there’s so much flexibility around retirement. You can choose to stay invested in your pension, decide your own level of income, or even withdraw the entire pot. Buying an annuity is now another choice, rather than being non-negotiable.

These days there’s so much flexibility around retirement. You can choose to stay invested in your pension, decide your own level of income, or even withdraw the entire pot. Buying an annuity is now another choice, rather than being non-negotiable.

younger generations, and it’s clear a rethink is needed on how best to use your savings. To adapt to changing needs, you might need to consider other assets and income sources alongside your pension.

younger generations, and it’s clear a rethink is needed on how best to use your savings. To adapt to changing needs, you might need to consider other assets and income sources alongside your pension.

D tnemeriterg emanalp

Meanwhile, as always, greater freedom brings greater responsibility. You’ve got to make sure those retirement savings last. It’s a thorny business full of tough decisions, made even trickier by the number of options available.

Meanwhile, as always, greater freedom brings greater responsibility. You’ve got to make sure those retirement savings last. It’s a thorny business full of tough decisions, made even trickier by the number of options available.

E yek–ruoytnemeriter c sraey,eromll’uoy n ekamtnatropmi-trohsdna mret-gnosnoisicedl

So what you have is a situation that’s both flexible and heavy on risk, whether you choose to dip into your pension pot or remain invested. Either way, you’ll need help and expertise to face the challenges.

So what you have is a situation that’s both flexible and heavy on risk, whether you choose to dip into your pension pot or remain invested. Either way, you’ll need help and expertise to face the challenges.

In retirement you’re also likely to encounter a new set of risks. For example, if you get off to a poor start when you begin drawing your income, with markets falling and returns negative, your investments will have to work much harder from the outset to maintain your desired income.

Retirement isn’t what it used to be. We’re working longer, living longer and have so many different ways to use our pension pot. All the more reason to get the experts involved.

These days there’s so much flexibility around retirement. You can choose to stay invested in your pension, decide your own level of income, or even withdraw the entire pot. Buying an annuity is now another choice, rather than being non-negotiable.

Let’s look at retirement age to begin with. The cliff-edge idea of stopping work at 60 or 65 and ‘being retired’ is history. Today a phased approach is much more likely, transitioning gradually from working and saving towards leisure and spending. Most of us can do this on our terms, according to our own life plans, rather than being restricted by a pension scheme or an employer.

ruoytnemeriterV

E yek–ruoytnemeriter c sraey,eromll’uoy n ekamtnatropmi-trohsdna mret-gnosnoisicedl ruoytnemeriterV

Let’s look at retirement age to begin with. The cliff-edge idea of stopping work at 60 or 65 and ‘being retired’ is history. Today a phased approach is much more likely, transitioning gradually from working and saving towards leisure and spending. Most of us can do this on our terms, according to our own life plans, rather than being restricted by a pension scheme or an employer.

Meanwhile, as always, greater freedom brings greater responsibility. You’ve got to make sure those retirement savings last. It’s a thorny business full of tough decisions, made even trickier by the number of options available.

Ask yourself what your retirement looks like. Then how can you make it a reality? If you’re retired already, is it as you imagined? Being ‘in retirement’ is much more than simply drawing an income. It’s also about running an efficient home, managing your tax-free cash and building a sustainable income that will last your lifetime.

Ask yourself what your retirement looks like. Then how can you make it a reality? If you’re retired already, is it as you imagined? Being ‘in retirement’ is much more than simply drawing an income. It’s also about running an efficient home, managing your tax-free cash and building a sustainable income that will last your lifetime.

Although there’s no set retirement age these days, you can start drawing your workplace and private pensions from the age of 55 (increasing to 57 from 6 April 2028). Add to this the pressures of supporting both older and

E ruoytnemeriter

Although there’s no set retirement age these days, you can start drawing your workplace and private pensions from the age of 55 (increasing to 57 from 6 April 2028). Add to this the pressures of supporting both older and

c ,eromll’uoy n tnatropmi-trohsdna

mret-gnosnoisicedl

Let’s look at retirement age to begin with. The cliff-edge idea of stopping work at 60 or 65 and ‘being retired’ is

In retirement you’re also likely to encounter a new set of risks. For example, if you get off to a poor start when you begin drawing your income, with markets falling and returns negative, your investments will have to work much harder from the outset to maintain your desired income.

younger generations, and it’s clear a rethink is needed on how best to use your savings. To adapt to changing needs, you might need to consider other assets and income sources alongside your pension.

Another layer of complexity in your retirement strategy is underestimating how long your money needs to last. The 100-year life is fast becoming normal, with more of us living much longer, more active lives than ever before. We’re here to help you navigate these obstacles. We believe the value of advice comes from building a strong relationship over time and understanding the needs of both you and your family. We’re experts in the intricacies of modern retirement. So you can worry less and focus on the important things in life.

Another layer of complexity in your retirement strategy is underestimating how long your money needs to last. The 100-year life is fast becoming normal, with more of us living much longer, more active lives than ever before. We’re here to help you navigate these obstacles. We believe the value of advice comes from building a strong relationship over time and understanding the needs of both you and your family. We’re experts in the intricacies of modern retirement. So you can worry less and focus on the important things in life.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select, and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select, and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

So what you have is a situation that’s both flexible and heavy on risk, whether you choose to dip into your pension pot or remain invested. Either way, you’ll need help and expertise to face the challenges.

The levels and basis of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.

The levels and basis of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.

In retirement you’re also likely to encounter a new set of risks. For example, if you get off to a poor start when you begin drawing your income, with markets falling and returns negative, your investments will have to work much harder from the outset to maintain your desired income.

If you’d like us to guide you through the retirement minefield, give us a call. We’re here to make a difference to your future.

If you’d like us to guide you through the retirement minefield, give us a call. We’re here to make a difference to your future.

Senior Partner Practice

Another layer of complexity in your retirement strategy is underestimating how long your money needs to last. The 100-year life is fast becoming normal, with more of us living much longer, more active lives than ever before.

We’re here to help you navigate these obstacles. We

had to take far greater responsibility for managing their own wealth, particularly with changes in pensions and retirement ages – times like these make professional advice more crucial than ever.

Research shows that taking advice results in significant financial benefits and that the difference is even starker among less wealthy individuals. On average, the financial benefits of advice outweigh the associated costs.

This benefit is often referred to as ‘Advice Alpha’ – the measurable advantage of having a trusted adviser in your corner.

Sarah explains: “Research shows that ‘Advice Alpha’ delivers on average between 1.5 per cent to 3 per cent per annum in additional growth for clients who consistently engage with a financial adviser they trust.”

Those who seek advice are more likely to spend time thinking carefully about how to finance retirement, set clear milestones to stay on track and focus on end goals.

Sarah notes: “Taking advice nudges people to action and helps them overcome their natural inertia. That’s why I always prepare

FINANCIAL PARALYSIS IN UNCERTAIN TIMES

Across the UK, people are facing financial uncertainty. With an unpredictable economy, shifting government policy and rising living costs, many are paralysed by indecision – unsure how best to manage their pensions, savings and investments, writes Katie Hammond

Sarah Siddons, Chartered Financial Planner and Senior Adviser at Bowcliffe Wealth Management, says this anxiety is something she’s seeing every day: “People are fearful for their jobs, unwilling to take on extra debt and they’re genuinely worried about expected levels of tax rises in the budget. Add to this the recent changes to capital gains tax and inheritance tax and people are feeling a level of financial insecurity not experienced on this scale since the 2008 market crash.”

Periods of uncertainty can trigger panicdriven decisions. Without professional advice to put matters into perspective, people may take actions that could harm their long-term financial health.

Sarah continues: “Without advice to put things into the correct context, people can make rash and unnecessary financial

decisions. Most obvious is panicking and taking money out when markets are down, or conversely, rushing to invest because markets are up. Clients are considering major financial moves driven by fear, with

CHOOSING AN ADVISER IS A DEEPLY PERSONAL DECISION AND THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IS FINDING SOMEONE YOU LIKE AND FEEL YOU CAN TRUST

several looking to give money away which they may actually need in older age. Others are unnecessarily cashing in pension tax-free cash, in case they lose the ability to do this in the near future.”

Over the past decade, individuals have

detailed cashflow reports for clients to see a roadmap of their financial life, with goals and numbers which either reassure them or galvanise them into action.”

“Choosing an adviser is a deeply personal decision and the most important factor is finding someone you like and feel you can trust. Yes, you need someone who knows their stuff and is reliable, but ultimately, you need someone you can open up to, share your life goals with and whose judgment you trust.”

Bowcliffe Wealth Management Ltd is a Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place, offering personal and face to face advice to clients throughout the country. n

Bowcliffe Wealth Management

Bowcliffe Court, Bowcliffe Hall Bramham, Wetherby LS23 6LW 0113 3608606

50-52 Skipton Road Ilkley LS29 9EP 01943 262600

bowcliffewm.co.uk

LOVE AND MARRIAGE: A VENUE FOR ALL SEASONS

A short drive from Lancashire and tucked away in 14 acres of immaculate and whimsical woodland, there’s a hidden gem where timeless romance meets award-winning hospitality, writes Katie Hammond

Grand yet welcoming, exclusive yet relaxed, Abbey House Hotel is a breathtaking venue for the perfect day and a place where every wedding feels like it’s the only one that matters.

It’s no mystery why Abbey House has become a favourite amongst couples looking for a destination wedding which combines stately grandeur with down-to-earth warmth and intimate charm.

The original mansion was built in 1914 as the private home and guest house of

Commander Craven, Chairman of Vickers Ship Building. It’s honey-hued sandstone façade, inspired by Sir Edwin Lutyen’s classic design, played host to many dignitaries including King George V, the Prince of Wales, the Queen Mother (whilst she was still the Duchess of York) and even the

WE ARE LICENSED FOR WEDDINGS SEVEN DAYS A WEEK, GIVING COUPLES COMPLETE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE ANY DAY THAT SUITS THEM BEST

Prince of Siam. Today, the façade provides a spectacular backdrop for photographs, especially at this time of year when the building twinkles with festive fairy lights. It’s simply the perfect venue for a festive celebration of love.

A venue for all seasons, this summer saw the first couples taking their vows in the brand-new Wedding Garden. Purpose

built and surrounded by manicured lawns and immaculate floral borders, it’s a dream come true for couples who crave open-air ‘I dos’. The garden is already a talking point, offering a dedicated space for both ceremonies and celebrations framed by the natural beauty of the estate.

The experienced Abbey House wedding team are delighted with the feedback they’ve received so far. Sales and Events Manager Donna Conroy, explains: “Our summer weddings were magical – the Wedding Garden offers further flexibility for couples who can already choose from a wide range of packages to suit every budget and vision, or even hire the entire hotel exclusively, closing it to the public for a truly private celebration.

“We are licensed for weddings seven days a week, giving couples complete freedom to choose any day that suits them best. Whether it’s a sun-drenched summer garden party or a romantic winter wonderland, lit by twinkling trees and fairy lights, Abbey House transforms seamlessly with the seasons.”

Adding a touch of fun and charm, ‘Herbie’ the wedding buggy is a much-loved feature of the venue. Perfect for whisking the wedding party around the grounds for photos, Herbie ensures every moment – from the first look to the last sunset shot – is effortlessly memorable. Behind the magic of every Abbey House Hotel wedding is an experienced and passionate

team, who are often mentioned personally in glowing guest reviews. Between them, they have decades of experience working in some of the UK’s most prestigious venues, with thousands of weddings under their belts between them. Their professionalism, creativity and calm expertise have made them a driving force behind Abbey House’s stellar reputation.

Hosting around 100 weddings each year, the team’s attention to detail is unmatched. From bespoke décor to personalised menus, they make every celebration unique, earning the hotel its status as a ‘wedding expert’s secret weapon’ in the North West.

WHETHER IT’S A SUNDRENCHED SUMMER GARDEN PARTY OR A ROMANTIC WINTER WONDERLAND, LIT BY TWINKLING TREES AND FAIRY LIGHTS, ABBEY HOUSE TRANSFORMS SEAMLESSLY WITH THE SEASONS

Guest accommodation is always high on the wish list for couples planning their perfect day or weekend and Abbey House boasts 59 beautifully appointed bedrooms, including three luxury honeymoon suites, offering the ultimate indulgence. Each suite blends contemporary comfort with heritage touches and are the perfect retreat for newlyweds at the end of their big day.

For food lovers, the hotel’s AA Rosette restaurant, Oscar’s, sets Abbey House apart. Headed by the same talented chef who oversees the wedding breakfasts, couples can expect restaurant-quality dining for their guests –whether it’s a lavish five-course meal or a relaxed evening feast.

Donna continues: “Abbey House isn’t just a venue – it’s a labour of love. Privately owned by the same family for nearly four decades, the hotel is about to celebrate its 40th anniversary –a milestone which reflects years of dedication, investment and passion.

“We are constantly reinvesting in the property, which means we can keep Abbey House at the forefront of wedding excellence, from the creation of the new Wedding Garden to regular upgrades across its interiors and guest facilities.”

Whether blanketed in snow or bathed in summer sunshine, this beautiful venue is made for weddings. The romantic glow of its winter décor, the twinkling lights of the Christmas trees and the grandeur of the Great Hall make it the perfect setting for couples dreaming of a festive celebration, whilst in summer, the gardens burst into colour, Herbie hums quietly along the paths and guests sip champagne under the open skies. It’s a venue that feels different every day of the year, yet always, unmistakably Abbey House. n

Abbey House Hotel & Gardens

Abbey Road, Furness Abbey Cumbria LA13 0PA 01229 838282

abbeyhousehotel.com

NEW APPOINTMENT AT CHILDREN’S CHARITY

Skipton-based children’s charity, The Principle Trust, has announced the appointment of Jamie Kemp, Platform Director at online training and compliance provider High Speed Training, as its new trustee for Marketing and Communications

The Principle Trust Children’s Charity provides crucial breaks for children experiencing trauma or abuse, poverty, mental health issues, serious illnesses, or disabilities. These holidays offer a lifeline, giving families the chance to heal, reconnect and create cherished memories.

Jamie, of High Speed Training, has helped drive the company’s growth over the past 11 years, establishing it as a leading online training provider. In his new voluntary role, he brings a wealth of experience in marketing and communications from a business-to-business perspective, helping

to guide the charity’s strategic outreach and awareness efforts.

Jamie’s appointment comes as The Principle Trust continues to expand its operations across the Yorkshire region in response to the cost-of-living crisis, which has intensified the difficulties faced by families.

Speaking about his appointment, Jamie said: “I’ve always admired the work The Principle Trust does to support children and families across Yorkshire. Having supported the charity through fundraising and sponsorship initiatives at High Speed Training, I’m honoured to now be joining the board. I’m passionate about helping the trust reach even more families who need a break from the challenges they face.”

THESE HOLIDAYS

OFFER A LIFELINE, GIVING

FAMILIES THE CHANCE TO HEAL, RECONNECT AND CREATE CHERISHED MEMORIES

Jamie has been a long-standing supporter of the charity, assisting with company fundraising and contributions. High Speed Training is also sponsoring the trust’s upcoming ‘The Big Ilkley Quiz’ event.

The charity’s founder Mike Davies MBE, welcomed Jamie to the board, saying: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Jamie as a trustee. His experience in digital strategy, marketing and communications will be a tremendous asset to the trust as we continue to grow.

“Beyond his professional expertise, Jamie has shown a genuine commitment to supporting our work over the years. His enthusiasm for making a difference in children’s lives truly shines through and we’re thrilled to have him on board as we continue to expand our support for families across Yorkshire.”

Since 2011, The Principle Trust has provided more than 5,700 free respite holidays for children and families across Yorkshire. Such impact would not be possible without the trust’s community of supporters. Local businesses, large and small, play a vital role through the charity’s Patrons Programme. Patrons pledge regular support, enabling the trust to maintain its seven holiday homes and reach more families every year. n

theprincipletrust.co.uk

THE SADDLE ROOM THE SADDLE ROOM

WEDDINGS | CORPORATE | EVENTS

Blending timeless elegance and modern luxury with the breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales, we create unforgettable events tailored to perfection by our dedicated team

LET’S TAKE A RIDE…

This Wensleydale/Wharfedale road trip is known as the ‘Hawes Toughie’! Starting with a gentle run down Wensleydale it then becomes more difficult

This 75km route starts at Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes, where you can fuel up on coffee and cake at the Stage 1 Cycles bike shop which is just next door! An easy start to the day, especially if it is a westerly wind, takes you down Wensleydale. After that there is a long climb up Coverdale with a final steep section on to the top of Park Rash.

From here it’s a tricky descent down to Kettlewell in Wharfedale, before a fantastic road takes you up to Buckden and along Langstrothdale. The second major climb of the day follows with the ascent of Fleet Moss, before a steep drop down the other side through the pretty village of Gayle and back to Hawes.

THE HAWES TOUGHIE

Start/Finish: Hawes National Park Centre

Distance: 45 miles (75km)

Refreshments: Askrigg, Caperby, Redmire, Carlton, Horsehouse, Buckden

Toilets: At start, Castle Bolton (just off route), Kettlewell, Buckden Nearest train Redmire on the Wensleydale station: Railway is just off the route

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

1. Turn right out of the car-park then immediately right again by going around the island. Go over a bridge (Kudu bikes is down a left turn if you need anything) and up to a T junction. Turn right (signposted Sedbusk). Follow this minor road to Askrigg and climb up through the village.

2. Keep right at the top of the village (signposted Carperby) – after the climb out of the village it’s an easy ride down the valley. Carry straight on through Carperby or divert right down the hill to Aysgarth for Café and toilets and a look at the Falls.

3. Go through Redmire, or divert to Castle Bolton for a look round. Up a short climb and then continue on this road to reach a T-junction with the A684.

4. Turn right, drop down over the river and take the next left. A steep climb takes you over to Coverdale and a T-junction.

5. Turn right (signed Carlton) and follow the road through Carlton, Horsehouse and Braidley. There is a short descent to cross the river and then back up the other side. The final section of the climb is tough, but then there is a quick descent to Kettlewell. Take care on the descent as there are tight corners.

6. When you reach Kettlewell go straight across and down the side of the shop, then turn right on to the main road up the valley. Carry on through Starbotton to reach Buckden.

7. As you reach Buckden village, turn right (signed Hubberholme). This road climbs gently up Langstrothdale valley and passes through Hubberholme. After Oughtershaw the climb up Fleets Moss starts for real with a few steep hairpins at the top.

8. From the top of Fleets Moss is a very quick run back to Hawes. The first section of the descent is steep and straight but watch out for sheep and side winds. After you drop into Gayle village you turn left over a bridge and then around to the right. Past the Wensleydale Creamery to a T-junction. Turn right to return to the start. n

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A FRESH TAKE ON COUNTRYSIDE LIVING

At Goosnargh Lodge Park, Jonathan and Sarah have found their perfect balance. Modern comfort, rural peace and a welcoming community that makes every day feel like a getaway, writes Tedd Walmsley

When you meet Jonathan and Sarah, it’s immediately clear they’ve found something rather special at Goosnargh Lodge Park. Within minutes of chatting to them, their enthusiasm is infectious, a genuine appreciation not just for their beautiful new lodge, but for the lifestyle that comes with it.

“We’d been looking for a while,” Jonathan begins, smiling as he looks out across the park’s green open space. “We wanted somewhere peaceful and rural but not too far from the people and places we love. When we first drove in, we just knew. The setting, the space, the views, it all just clicked.”

That first impression has only deepened since they collected the keys to their Victory Liberty Lodge earlier this year. “It’s everything we hoped for and more,” adds Sarah. “We didn’t want a big house that needed constant maintenance. We wanted something modern, efficient and easy to live in, but still warm, welcoming and full of light. This ticked every box.”

The Liberty model, with its open-plan design, large picture windows and beautifully balanced interiors, is the perfect fit for them.

“It feels like a proper home,” Sarah explains. “The build quality is fantastic and the layout makes it such a comfortable space to live in. You’ve got this lovely flow from the kitchen through to the living area and the French doors open straight onto the decking – it’s like bringing the outdoors in.”

And what an outdoors it is. Goosnargh Lodge Park sits in a glorious rural setting, surrounded by open countryside and big skies, where the sounds of nature replace the hum of traffic. “Every morning we have breakfast looking out at the fields and you can just feel yourself unwind,” Jonathan says. “There’s something incredibly grounding about it.”

For both of them, the park’s green credentials also played an important role in their decision. With sustainability at its heart, energyefficient lodges, low-impact landscaping and a focus on biodiversity, it was a choice that felt right for the future. “We’re more aware than ever of how we live and the impact we make,” Jonathan explains. “It’s reassuring to know the park has been designed with that same mindset.”

Another huge draw was the park’s rare 365-day access and the ability to enjoy their

lodge at any time of year. “It’s wonderful to know that whenever we want to escape, the lodge is ready and waiting for us,” says Sarah. “That flexibility really sealed it for us.”

Beyond the scenery and sustainability, what’s perhaps most surprising is the growing sense of community that’s already developing here. “Everyone’s been so friendly and welcoming,” Sarah smiles. “It’s lovely, people stop for a chat and there’s a real mix of owners, all looking for that same kind of balance.”

Jonathan and Sarah are already adding their own touch to that shared spirit. With their enthusiasm for gardening and homegrown produce, they’re planning to create a community growing space within the park, a place where residents can plant vegetables, herbs and flowers together. “It’s something we’re really passionate about,” Sarah says. “It’s not just about what you grow, it’s about connecting people. Sharing homegrown tomatoes or a bunch of sweet peas over a cuppa – those are the little things that make a community thrive.”

For them, life at Goosnargh Lodge Park strikes exactly the right balance. “It’s easy living,” Jonathan says. “You’ve got all the modern comforts, you’re surrounded by

countryside, and yet everything you need is close by.”

He’s right. The park’s location, tucked away in tranquil Goosnargh, yet within easy reach of Longridge, Whalley and Preston

to press pause, recharge and enjoy the seasons as they unfold. For those looking to downsize, it removes the stress of upkeep without losing quality or comfort. For second-home seekers, it’s the perfect countryside escape. And for anyone searching for a change of pace, it’s a way to live differently. Smarter, calmer and more connected, all with the reassurance of year-round access for holiday use.

If this feature has left you curious, you’ll be pleased to know there are two stunning Victory Lodges currently on site – beautifully presented as show homes and now available for sale with immediate occupancy. They combine space, comfort and contemporary design – a rare chance to secure your own slice of Goosnargh Lodge Park before word spreads further. n

offers the best of both worlds. Independent shops, great restaurants and welcoming country pubs are all just a short drive away. Goosnargh Lodge Park offers more than a holiday home. It’s a lifestyle choice. A place

Goosnargh Lodge Park

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

VICTORY LODGES FOR SALE

The Franklin has everything you want from a lodge and more. Inspired by the sunset tones of Morocco and with earthy, natural textures, there’s a lot to love about this contemporary lodge. If you like a room with a view, you’ll love the clever use of windows throughout, including the unique bi-fold window to the dining area which offers uncompromising views from every angle – and an inside-outside alfresco option when entertaining.

The Highcroft lodge showcases farmhouse-chic with a modern twist. A lodge made for socialising, the Highcroft combines open-plan living with cosy nooks to enjoy peaceful moments. With ambient lighting, a bar area made for cocktails and large customisable modular sofa, the Highcroft allows you to connect with those that matter.

SKIPTON’S BEST

Known as ‘sheep town’ Skipton has so much more going for it. Its wide range of businesses and community ventures were put on show at an annual event

ASanta fun run, a ghost tour and a community boxing club were among the winners of Skipton’s annual business awards.

Hair and beauty, health and well-being and food and drink were among other areas focussed on in this year’s awards ceremony.

Hundreds of business owners and top workers gathered for the event at Skipton Town Hall in October. Organised by the Skipton Business Improvement District (BID), the awards showcase the quality and excellent service on offer from the vast range of businesses in the town.

Sarah Howsen, Skipton BID Manager, said: “This was our third year of organising the business awards – and I can safely say it’s definitely been another success!

“It’s a great feeling honouring our town’s amazing business community, every year all of our finalists are very worthy winners.

“The judges praised the high quality of

nominations this year, so a big well done to everyone.

“A huge thank you goes out to all of our sponsors and everyone involved in the organisation of this excellent event – we really couldn’t do it without you!”

A HUGE THANK YOU GOES OUT TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS AND EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE ORGANISATION OF THIS EXCELLENT EVENT

In total there were 12 different categories in this year’s awards – with winners revealed in each during the event.

Mark Shaw, nominated for supporting local people after setting up the Craven Community Boxing Club, was crowned as ‘Skipton’s Shining Star’ on the night.

Nightshade, a new bar in the town centre,

claimed a brace of awards – taking home both Best New Business and Pub/Bar of the Year. Hair and Beauty Business of the Year was won by The Velvet Beauty Studio, while Holistic House claimed the Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year award.

Craven Arts House was highlighted as the top Art and Culture venue in Skipton, while The Great Santa Fun Run was judged to be the Best Event held in the town after raising more than £500,000 for great causes since its inception.

ADNC Projects Limited were crowned with the Business Services Award after nominations praised the team’s quality communication and craftsmanship.

Turkish Mediterranean restaurant Efendy claimed the Restaurant of the Year prize –and The Kibble Bakery won the Coffee Shop of the Year title.

Skipton Ghost Tour, keeping Skipton’s heritage alive through theatrical storytelling, took home the Leisure and Tourism award on the night, while The Body Shop, which has been a staple of the Skipton high street for many years, was crowned Retailer of the Year.

Skipton BID thanked all of the local organisations that sponsored a category in the 2025 Business Awards, along with the media partner Your Skipton Radio and the headline sponsors at Craven College. n

A collection of six award-winning venues across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley & Yorkshire Dales. Scan to

Say I do... TO YOUR DREAM VENUE

From a classic country inn and an astounding contemporary mill conversion to elegant stately homes and romantic manor houses, our Dream Venues Collection offers the perfect setting to make your wedding truly unforgettable.

Wennington Hall in Lancaster is an exceptional choice for larger celebrations or weddings that unfold over several days — a stunning venue where history, style, and space come together beautifully.

DREAM WEDDING SHOWCASES

Wennington Hall & Falcon Manor

10th & 11th January • 12pm-4pm

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17th & 18th January • 12pm-4pm

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PHOTOGRAPHERS: Rebecca Jones, Paige Hargreaves, Emilie May, Sam Sparks & Stella Photography

FISHING FOR HEALTH

The links between angling and good mental health are now well established. Fishing coach Justin Cavalier from Off The Scale Outdoor Education explains more

Angling in the UK has seen many fluctuations in popularity in recent history – and we now understand surges may be linked to the country’s mental health and wellbeing. One of the most obvious booms was shortly after the Second World War, a period where the population was still recovering after years of conflict – and psychological conditions, although widely undiagnosed, were rife. The 70s saw economic uncertainty hit much of Britain but by the end of the decade there were

record numbers of angling clubs, matches and even school fishing teams across the UK. One of the ways we track the health of the sport is to look at the sale of rod licences, a legal requirement to fish in freshwater across England and Wales. The 2009/2010 period recorded the highest number of sales at nearly 1.4 million. There was another increase in 2020-2021 during the Covid pandemic –mainly attributed to angling being one of the first outdoor activities permitted when lockdown restrictions were eased.

THE RESULTS OF STUDIES HAVE PROVED THAT BEING NEAR WATER AND CONNECTING WITH THE COUNTRYSIDE CREATES A MEDITATIVE STATE WHICH CAN LOWER STRESS

It was around this time that the correlation between angling and mental health started to gain more recognition. The results of studies have proved that being near water and connecting with the countryside creates a meditative state which can lower stress by reducing the production of the hormone cortisol, inducing a sense of calm and relaxation. Spending time outdoors and in nature has also been linked to higher levels of serotonin, which helps to boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Vitamin D has positive effects on mood regulation too. Fishing requires focus, organisation

and attention to detail, which can improve cognitive functions, hand eye coordination, patience and the ability to be present in the moment. Setting and achieving personal goals, such as mastering a new technique or landing a targeted species, provides a sense of accomplishment and increases confidence. Angling also offers an escape from technology and the demands of daily life, providing a mental reset.

When shared with family and friends it can help build and strengthen bonds. Joining angling clubs or participating in events allows people to meet like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and combating social isolation.

In 2021 angling was formally recognised by the NHS as a socially prescribed activity –one that could be offered to patients as an alternative to medication such as antidepressants. With approximately 80 per cent of anglers being male, having this option available as a therapy became even more important, especially because men are statistically less likely to seek help from a doctor for mental health issues. A fear of being seen as weak and a reluctance to appear vulnerable are all contributing factors but going on a fishing adventure may feel more acceptable.

Under 13s do not require a rod license so there is uncertainty as to whether enough are taking up the sport to replace an ageing demographic. However, the demand for junior fishing events seems to be increasing and even if your family lacks someone to pass down knowledge from generation to generation, companies such as Off The Scale Outdoor Education will hopefully always be here to fill that gap. n

07723 072688 offthescaleoutdooreducation.com

WHERE GOOD TIMES GATHER

Discover The Fleece in Addingham, a Seafood Pub Co star with a flexible and beautiful event space full of character and charm, generous menus and warm Yorkshire hospitality, perfect for every celebration

Step inside The Fleece and it feels like the perfect village pub to while away an afternoon with good food, great company and a glass of something cold. What many people do not realise until they are shown around is that upstairs there is a brilliantly flexible event space that has been quietly becoming a go to spot for celebrations in Addingham and beyond. It is relaxed, characterful and

completely geared around making your occasion feel special yet effortless.

At the heart of the upstairs area are three distinct spaces that can be used individually or combined. The private dining room suits smaller gatherings of up to twenty guests; the mezzanine with its own bar is perfect for mingling; and the main dining room accommodates up to sixty for a traditional sit-down meal. Book just one room for an

intimate celebration or open all three to host as many as one hundred guests for a buffet or sharing-style event. The layout acts like a flexible toolkit, allowing you to shape the day exactly as you want it.

The dining rooms are especially loved by those wanting a proper meal together. They’re ideal for wedding breakfasts, anniversary lunches and milestone birthdays that call for something more memorable than a casual gathering at home. The team at The Fleece understand that people want to chat, raise a glass and linger over dessert, so the pace is unhurried and the service reassuringly attentive without ever feeling stiff.

Adding the mezzanine and bar brings a more social feel. Having your own bar means guests can drift between catching up over a drink and returning to the table or dancefloor at their own pace. When all three spaces are combined you have the full upstairs suite, perfect for evening receptions where some guests want to dance while others prefer to relax, enjoy a bite

and chat. Buffets and sharing platters work beautifully here, encouraging guests to graze, mingle and move around naturally.

The variety of events held at The Fleece shows just how versatile this space is. There’s been a rise in 21st birthday celebrations as families look for somewhere that feels special yet still relaxed and friendly. The venue also works beautifully for weddings, christenings, celebrations of life, big family gatherings and smaller business occasions such as breakfast meetings where a quiet corner, good coffee and the option of a cooked breakfast matter. The event spaces are available seven days a week, giving you freedom beyond weekend dates.

Food is a major reason guests choose The Fleece. As part of the Seafood Pub Co, the menus focus on seasonal dishes, quality ingredients and comforting favourites cooked with flair. Bespoke menus are happily created, whether you want a formal three-course feast, relaxed seafood platters, crowd-pleasing classics or lighter breakfast options. Drinks receive the same care, and the friendly team ensures glasses are topped up and guests feel welcome from the moment they arrive.

Planning an event can feel daunting, but that’s where the team excels. They can arrange entertainment and room styling or work with any suppliers you already have in mind. Fairy lights, flowers, a favourite band or DJ, personalised touches on the tables. All the small elements that make a celebration feel truly yours, are part of the planning. The atmosphere is informal yet polished, perfectly aligned with the vision of Joycelyn Neve, founder of the Seafood Pub Co, whose focus has always been warm hospitality, memorable food and relaxed, welcoming pubs.

For those who love this approach but want a different backdrop, The Fleece has a sister venue worth exploring. The Alma Inn offers another beautiful setting for weddings and private parties and can host up to one hundred guests for a traditional

CHARITY CASINO NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE 2025

7pm – late Tickets £47.50

Welcome drink, late night supper, disco, dancing and games.

DRESS TO IMPRESS

All funds raised to Sarcoma UK and Yorkshire Air Ambulance the-fleece.com/whats-on

sit-down meal. Between the two venues, you can choose the location and style that suit you best while still enjoying the same commitment to great food, thoughtful service and a welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you are planning a milestone birthday, an intimate wedding, a christening brunch or a breakfast meeting that needs to impress, the upstairs spaces at The Fleece make it feel easy. You choose the occasion, the size of the guest list and the mood you want to create and the team help shape the rooms, menus and details around you. It is the sort of place people discover for one special event then find themselves returning to again and again. n

To experience the space for yourself, consider attending The Fleece’s Charity Casino Night on New Year’s Eve, when the room and guests will be dressed to impress! Visit the website for more details.

The Fleece 152-154 Main Street

Addingham Ilkley LS29 0LY 01943 830397

the-fleece.com

thealmainn.com

CHALLENGING

PERCEPTIONS

The charming former spa town of Ilkley is known for its evocative scenery, tranquil setting and upmarket shops and eateries. Now its raw beauty is being reimagined in a campaign to attract younger people

Abold and striking new campaign titled ‘Iconic Ilkley’ has been launched, showcasing the town’s breathtaking landscapes and creative community through high fashion, art and sustainability, aimed at redefining Ilkley’s image and attracting a new, younger audience.

The visionary project is a collaboration between renowned make-up artist Marianna Easter, fashion photographer Xanthe Ellis, designer Charlotte Allen from Alpkit Ilkley, videographer Ellen McAuslan and Sarah Brookfield-Almond from Ilkley Business Improvement District (BID).

The campaign evolved from an initial idea from Marianna Easter to highlight the contemporary creativity in Ilkley, so often inspired by Ilkley’s raw, natural beauty.

She approached Sarah of Ilkley BID to help develop this idea and ‘Iconic Ilkley’ was born.

At the heart of the campaign is an imaginative fashion collection created by Charlotte Allen, known for her work in garment restoration, repair and sustainable design at Alpkit Ilkley. Sarah tasked her with transforming discarded outdoor gear, including tents, wetsuits and bike tubes, into high-concept fashion.

The result is a collection worthy of a fashion editorial spread and deeply rooted in Ilkley’s outdoor spirit.

Among the standout pieces are:

• A Grecian Goddess-inspired gown made from an upcycled tent

• A flowing skirt crafted from an old groundsheet

• A striking top made from bike inner tubes

• A statement piece created from a donated wetsuit, with cut-out detailing inspired by the Ilkley Fountain

• And jewellery made from bike chains and old camping equipment

Pride of place goes to a vibrant orange expedition jacket, worn by a world-travelling explorer – including on Mount Everest – and lovingly restored by Charlotte so its stories and memories could live on.

DRAWING INSPIRATION DIRECTLY FROM THE LANDSCAPE, EACH LOOK WAS CAREFULLY CURATED TO REFLECT ILKLEY’S HERITAGE, ITS RUGGED LANDSCAPES AND ITS BEAUTY

The fashion was brought to life by four models, Kofi, Lulu and Chela from ‘neo mgmt’ agency in Manchester and Zana from

The Hot Yoga Chapel, Ilkley and were styled and photographed in some of Ilkley’s most iconic locations: White Wells, Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley Fountain and the Old Bridge.

Drawing inspiration directly from the landscape, each look was carefully curated to reflect Ilkley’s heritage, its rugged landscapes and its beauty.

The imagery captured at Ilkley Fountain featured a striking look that reflected the area’s deep connection to water. With the model’s repurposed wetsuit, sleek, wet-look hair, chalky green eyeshadow and spiked lashes symbolising the raw and ever-changing natural elements of Ilkley. This look paid homage to the town’s intrinsic link with water, from the moors above to the River Wharfe below.

A WARRIOR-INSPIRED AESTHETIC AT THE COW AND CALF REFLECTED ILKLEY’S ROMAN PAST AND INVOKED THE SPIRIT OF VERBEIA, ILKLEY’S ANCIENT GODDESS

A warrior-inspired aesthetic at the Cow and Calf reflected Ilkley’s Roman past and invoked the spirit of Verbeia, Ilkley’s ancient goddess –and a sunny yellow and orange palette at the Old Bridge, contrasting with the modernistic garments, worked beautifully with the dark greens in the landscape and water, symbolised optimism and renewal.

Marianna said: “When brainstorming for the shoot it felt important to recognise Ilkley as a whole, both past and present, whilst including nods to the future of the town. This was a true creative collaboration. We all brought something unique whilst respecting each other’s individual creative input and worked in harmony to tell Ilkley’s story in a new way.”

Sarah Brookfield-Almond expressed her pride in the stunning visuals saying: “This has been a completely new direction for us and I couldn’t be prouder of the results. The shoot captures the essence of what makes Ilkley so unique in such a powerful and artistic way. Charlotte’s collection is nothing short of incredible – to think it all began with me asking if she could make a ground sheet look sexy!”

Xanthe Ellis added: “This shoot is a heartfelt tribute to Ilkley, the town I’ve proudly called home for the past seven years. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places in the UK and its recognition as one of the Sunday Times’

Ilkley Moor to wild swimming spots and ancient stone circles, there’s so much natural wonder right on your doorstep. This shoot aims to honour that raw, untamed beauty and I’m genuinely thrilled that the images reflect it so clearly.”

The campaign aims not only to highlight Ilkley’s stunning scenery but also to shift perceptions and challenge the idea that the town appeals only to an older audience. Through its contemporary, youthful and eco-conscious vision, Iconic Ilkley reveals the town as both wild and refined, ancient and modern, confident and reserved. n

ilkleybid.co.uk

CELEBRATE IN LUXURIOUS STYLE

If you’re looking for luxury and breathtaking scenery to make that special occasion perfect, your search is over. Gilpin Lake House offers all of that and more

Whether you’re planning the perfect proposal, dreaming of saying “I do” in unforgettable style, or searching for a breathtaking backdrop to celebrate a milestone moment, Gilpin Lake House might just be the luxury lakeside venue you’ve been wishing for. Whatever the occasion, this is a place made for moments that matter.

Set on a picture-perfect private estate in the heart of the Lake District National Park –just a stone’s throw from Windermere –the five-star Gilpin Lake House is a charming country-house hotel with grand spaces, beautiful bedrooms, Michelin-starred dining and enchanting grounds. Inside, you’ll find a cosy bar and lounge with a wood-burning stove, a spacious and stylish function room with floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony boasting breathtaking views and well-appointed bedrooms sleeping up to 16 guests. There’s also a state-of-the-art kitchen for their Michelin-trained team to work their magic, plus superb spa facilities including an indoor pool, sauna, treatment room and outdoor hot tubs. Step outside and the estate opens into gardens to wander, woodland to explore and gorgeous views to soak in.

Tie the knot just you two, in their romantic boathouse or with guests galore (up to 60) in the contemporary conservatory with bi-fold doors opening up onto the terrace – your ceremony can be as intimate or grand as you wish. If the weather is fine, an outdoor ceremony might be just the thing, so you can soak up the sunshine as well as the spectacular scenery. Alongside their ‘You & Me’ elopement package, Gilpin offers ‘The Love Story,’ a completely exclusive two-day celebration for you and your beau, plus up to 14 guests. This includes two nights of luxury accommodation, exquisite dining, Champagne and full access to all facilities. You can even invite additional day guests so all your nearest and dearest can celebrate with you.

If you’re planning to pop the question, Gilpin Lake House offers a setting that blends luxury, intimacy and natural beauty in the most effortless way. Declare your love beside the still waters of their private tarn, from their secluded fell-top viewpoint, or in the comfort of your elegant room. Their discreet team is always on hand to help plan the perfect proposal and there’s even a dedicated package that can be tailored to suit your vision.

WHATEVER THE OCCASION, THIS IS A PLACE MADE FOR MOMENTS THAT MATTER

From big birthdays and special anniversaries to corporate retreats, Gilpin Lake House – with all its facilities – can be hired exclusively for a truly bespoke getaway. Add curated experiences from trusted local partners, whether you fancy candle making, clay pigeon shooting, or something entirely different.

As a five-star, family-owned venue, Gilpin Lake House prides itself on providing exquisite, tailored experiences with personal and professional service at the heart of everything they do. Their Relais & Châteaux-trained team look after each event from start to finish with warmth, professionalism and extraordinary service to make your occasion uniquely yours. n

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House

Crook Road

Windermere 01539 488818

thegilpin.co.uk

EDUCATION NEWS

‘HER VOICE’ LAUNCH

Queen Mary’s School in North Yorkshire has launched Her Voice, a new personal development and leadership programme designed to build confidence, resilience and ambition among its pupils. The initiative forms part of the school’s commitment to empowering pupils in an all-girls’ environment for ages three to 16. Head Fe Beadnell said the programme aims to help pupils “step confidently into a world not always made for them”. Alongside strong academic results and growing participation in STEM and sport, Her Voice highlights Queen Mary’s continued focus on developing future female leaders.

BALLET SUCCESS

A young Westville House pupil has successfully auditioned for the prestigious company Yorkshire Ballet Theatre. Performing Arts teacher Jo Sproston said the school was “incredibly proud” of young ballerina eight-year-old Alex Dykins. “She has worked super hard in her ballet lessons at school these past three years plus attends the Charlotte Wallis Dance

CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP

Wharfedale Montessori has announced that Kate Dickman, together with her partner Tim Ryley, is the school’s new proprietor. Kate says: “I am often asked Why Montessori? It’s an easy question to answer: It is authentic and it comes from a place of deep respect for the child. Montessori students are challenged and loved. They belong. And because of this, they are excited to learn. We are incredibly grateful to Jane and Graham Lord, who have entrusted their life’s work with us and we are looking forward to expanding this amazing community we have grown to love.”

Academy in Ilkley,” she said. “Alex will now start a nine month training programme in preparation for a performance of the ballet ‘Twelve Dancing Princesses’ in Leeds at The Carriageworks Theatre with Yorkshire Ballet Theatre next 2-4th July. Westville students and teachers and parents can’t wait for the school trip to watch our budding ballerina perform.”

NEW SPORTS STAFF

Queen Ethelburga’s, one of North Yorkshire’s leading independent schools on the outskirts of York, has announced new developments for 2025. QE is reshaping its senior school structure and welcoming expert new sports staff to support students’ growth on and off the field. These changes follow another impressive year of academic results, with 77 per cent of students achieving A*-A grades and 91 per cent securing A*-B grades at A Level. A spokesperson said: “They underline QE’s commitment to delivering an unrivalled educational experience for pupils aged three months to 19 years.”

NEW ART AND DESIGN CENTRE

Stonyhurst College is raising the bar in creative education with the opening of its new Art and Design Centre and the introduction of new innovative subjects, including Textile Design and Design Technology. The purpose-built facilities provide pupils with an inspiring environment to explore both traditional techniques and modern digital practices. Opportunities to collaborate with visiting artists and industry experts further enrich learning, supporting the college’s STEAM curriculum. A spokesperson said: “These developments reflect Stonyhurst’s commitment to combining academic excellence with creative innovation, ensuring pupils enjoy a broad, forward-thinking education that blends tradition with contemporary relevance.”

Stonyhurst:

Joseph Joseph win 14 Red Dot Awards since 2008

Enterprise

Cambridge University (MA)

Product Designer (Dyson)

Richard Joseph “ “

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.

Stonyhurst (Alumnus 1994)

Book a private visit stonyhurst.ac.uk/sixthform

Loughborough University

SIXTH FORM

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

INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE

Stonyhurst College is setting new educational standards through its continued investment in academic excellence with the launch of new subjects and facilities, including a cutting-edge Art and Design Centre that blends creativity with innovation

Many may perceive Stonyhurst as a school better known for its heritage and values than its academic rigour, but its results tell a very different story. With an academic reputation that continues to go from strength to strength, Stonyhurst College consistently achieves strong outcomes when compared with local independent and state schools and is recognised for its commitment to developing well-rounded, independent thinkers. This year, the College is setting a new benchmark in educational innovation with the launch of a new Art and Design Centre, alongside the introduction of pioneering subject areas such as Textile Design and Design Technology. These developments reflect Stonyhurst’s dedication to offering an expansive curriculum that blends tradition with modern relevance.

Sarah Joseph, Stonyhurst’s Deputy Head Academic, explains: “This is a significant

investment and will focus on the technical aspects of Art and Design, including 3D printing, laser cutting and CAD software so pupils learn the technical skills needed for the future.”

The expansion of creative subjects is not just about exploring artistic potential but also equipping pupils with the technical skills that are increasingly valued in today’s digital and design-driven world.

Alongside the launch of the new Art and Design Centre, Stonyhurst is introducing

Textile Design and Product Design at both A level and GCSE. These subjects will allow pupils to explore the intersection of creativity and technology, preparing them for a wide range of future career opportunities in the creative industries. This progressive move complements the College’s established academic focus and STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive education that embraces the arts, sciences and technical subjects.

STONYHURST IS SHAPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF PUPILS TO THRIVE, BOTH ACADEMICALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY

The College’s academic achievements have always been a source of pride and this year’s exam results highlight the success of its tailored educational approach. Stonyhurst’s academic excellence is reflected in its A level outcomes, with 81 per cent of pupils achieving A*-B grades, with 54 per cent earning A*-A grades at A level. This performance places Stonyhurst in the top one per cent of schools and colleges nationally for value-added progress for pupils of all abilities, which is an impressive achievement. “This is the result of children making significant academic progress, irrespective of their starting point,” says Sarah. “It means that pupils make more progress with us than

the vast majority of schools nationally. This reflects our Jesuit mission to enable every child to flourish.”

In 2025, Stonyhurst’s performance outpaced that of a local academically-selective school by over 20 per cent in A*-A grades in the A level cohort. Stonyhurst, a non-selective school, exceeded this level of academic success, demonstrating how its value-added approach enables pupils of all abilities to achieve exceptional outcomes. Stonyhurst College offers three distinct pathways at Sixth Form, allowing pupils to choose the route that best reflects their individual strengths, ambitions and preferred learning styles.

A LEVELS – A level pupils typically follow a traditional, rigorous academic route, preparing them for university.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

(IBDP):

IB offers a globally recognised, holistic curriculum for the intellectually agile pupil –it promotes inquiry and critical thinking.

CTEC (IN BUSINESS OR SPORT): This pathway provides applied, modular learning with a focus on real-world skills. It is a vocational qualification that converts into UCAS points.

All pathways can lead to offers at prestigious universities – significantly this year 69 per cent of pupils gained access to Russell Group universities including UCL and St Andrews, 91 per cent secured their first-choice university. One pupil has gone on to study Music at the University of Oxford, where he has also been awarded an organ scholarship at Trinity College, while another is attending university in the United States on a tennis scholarship. Both pupils achieved three A*s in their A levels –as Sarah explains: “It just goes to show, you can have it all.”

Highlighting the College’s commitment to helping pupils make informed choices about the pathway that suits them best, Sarah adds: “Education is about breadth and balance. We blend traditional subjects with those needed in the modern world. The support from our expert teaching staff ensures each pupil is guided and challenged to achieve the highest attainable excellence.”

Stonyhurst’s approach to academic support is rooted in personal mentorship. With small class sizes and a bespoke academic support structure, each pupil benefits from dedicated guidance. “Our academic vision is exceptional and that’s down to the teaching staff who enable each child to achieve their potential.

“Through workshops, pupils also learn about executive functioning which helps them develop essential skills including task and time management, meeting deadlines and effective problem solving. These abilities are not only vital for exam success but also prepare them for life beyond the classroom and the world of work, increasing their employability for life after Stonyhurst.”

PUPILS LEARN ABOUT TASK AND TIME MANAGEMENT, DEALING WITH DEADLINES AND PROBLEM SOLVING. THESE ARE ALL THINGS THAT HELP WHEN THEY GO OUT INTO THE WORLD OF WORK

The school’s Jesuit principles also extend to the development of independent thinking and personal growth. Stonyhurst fosters a learning environment where curiosity, resilience and intellectual ambition are key. The Stonyhurst Learner Profile defines these values, encouraging pupils to be reflective, curious, resilient, compassionate and intellectually ambitious.

“These traits underpin success not only in examinations but in lifelong learning. By nurturing these qualities, Stonyhurst aims to produce pupils who embrace our motto ‘Quant je puis’ or ‘As much as I can’ making them not only academically accomplished but also equipped with the skills necessary for success in the modern, fast-changing world.”

In addition to core academic studies, Stonyhurst offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities, from Oxbridge mentoring to debating and subject-specific

societies such as MedSoc and LawSoc. These extracurricular activities, often supported by a network of Stonyhurst alumni, play a vital role in supporting pupils’ academic journeys, providing them with opportunities to engage with their interests in greater depth.

The school’s strong academic support network ensures that every pupil has the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Those in receipt of scholarships, or on the College’s Gifted and Talented programme, benefit from tailored one-to-one support designed to help them reach their full potential.

Stonyhurst College’s continued investment in new subjects and cutting-edge facilities reflects its commitment to evolving with the needs of today’s pupils. With a strong focus on creativity, technical innovation and personalised academic support, Stonyhurst is shaping the next generation to thrive, both academically and professionally: “Our vision ensures that every pupil can fulfil their potential, whatever path they choose to follow.” n

Stonyhurst College Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

stonyhurst.ac.uk

ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

for creativity and connection, less stress and less guilt about the ones they did not quite reach. Happier teachers tend to create happier classrooms and children feel that difference every day.

SOMETIMES THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE FOR A CHILD IS SIMPLY BEING ONE

OF FIFTEEN NOT ONE OF THIRTY

Parents often talk about wanting school to feel like an extension of family life. Small classes help with that. Teachers can spot small changes in mood and energy, they can talk to home more easily and children are less likely to feel like just another name on a register.

None of this means big classes are doomed or that small ones are perfect. The right teacher

WHY SMALLER CLASSES MAKE BIGGER SMILES

From quieter mornings to confident voices a smaller class can change how children learn, feel and grow at school every single day for good

Walk into a small class and the first thing you notice is the hum. Not the roar of thirty children competing to be heard but a softer buzz. There is space to think. There is time to breathe. The teacher is not firefighting. They are teaching.

With fewer pupils every child becomes more visible. The quiet one at the back has less room to disappear. The chatty one has fewer people to distract. A teacher can learn who needs a gentle nudge, who needs a challenge and who just needs someone to notice that they tried. That kind of attention can transform how a child feels about learning.

Small numbers also make school feel safer. It is easier to build friendships when you are not lost in a sea of faces. Children begin to know everyone in the room, not just their closest friends. Arguments still happen of course but they are easier to spot and sort. There is less chance of a child struggling silently in the middle of a crowd.

Then there is the pace. In a small class

teachers can move faster when the group is flying and slow down when something is not clicking. They can swap rigid whole class tasks for more flexible projects, mini workshops and quick check-ins. Learning becomes less about keeping up and more about moving forward.

Small classes can be kinder to adults too. A teacher with fewer pupils has more energy

can light up any room. But when numbers drop good teaching gets room to shine. Children are calmer, more confident and more willing to have a go.

In a world that often shouts bigger is better the small class quietly disagrees. Sometimes the biggest difference for a child is simply being one of fifteen not one of thirty. n

NEW START FOR PRE-SCHOOL

After more than five decades Ilkley Pre-school was facing possible closure – but now a new home has secured its future

Atown’s longest standing provider of early years education has moved into a new home after a nine-month search to save it from the threat of closure.

Ilkley Pre-school had been based at the Friends Meeting House since it began in 1968. But rising costs and increased rent meant it could no longer afford to stay.

With its future in doubt, attempts were made to find a new home. The trustees, staff,

councillors, MPs and the local community pulled together to locate a new site. And now its future has been secured after it officially relocated to new premises at Ilkley Cricket Club, on Middleton Avenue.

The new setting offers a spacious indoor area, improved facilities and outdoor play areas, all tailored to the needs of preschool-aged children. The relocation ensures that the highly qualified staff can continue to deliver a broad curriculum and nurturing approach.

Chair of Ilkley Pre-school Ruth Davies said: “For more than fifty years, the pre-school was proudly based at the Friends Meeting House on Queens Road in Ilkley. However, due to rising costs and increased rental charges, it became no longer viable to continue operating from that location, prompting the search for new premises close by.

“After an extensive nine-month search, a suitable new home was found offering both indoor and outdoor learning spaces within close proximity to Ilkley town centre. Throughout this process, the trustees worked tirelessly alongside members of the local community, including Ros Green, David Shaw MBE and Robbie Moore MP, to explore every possible option. At times, the pre-school came close to closure – a potential outcome that would have been devastating for its highly qualified, long-serving staff and a great loss to the local community it has supported since the 1960s.

THE NEW SITE PROVIDES A BRIGHT, WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT THAT ALREADY FEELS LIKE HOME FOR BOTH THE CHILDREN AND STAFF

“The Trustees are therefore delighted to confirm the pre-school’s relocation to its beautiful new setting at Ilkley Cricket Club. The new site provides a bright, welcoming environment that already feels like home for both the children and staff, marking an exciting new chapter in the pre-school’s long history.”

Pre-school manager Tracy Fearnley said: “This is a very positive step forward for our pre-school. The new premises provide us with longer opening hours, a new and varied curriculum with the excellent facilities and outdoor green space, the resources and space to further enhance the learning experience for children, while maintaining the warm and welcoming ethos that our families value so highly. We are excited to welcome both current and new families into this new chapter.”

The pre-school is now accepting registrations for the upcoming term and invites prospective families to arrange a visit. Parents and carers will have the opportunity to view the facilities, meet the teaching team and learn more about the setting’s approach to early years education. n

ilkleypreschool.org.uk

BUSINESS MATTERS

Successful businesses are the lifeblood of any community. Here is the latest news from some impressive examples. If you have business news contact: annette.mcintyre@live-magazines.co.uk

SKIPTON HOUSEBUILDER UNVEILS NEW NAME

Skipton Properties has launched a new identity as it continues work on 53 new homes at the development, The Oaks in Skipton.

The family-run company, which was set up nearly 40 years ago, has rebranded as Verity & Co Homes, honouring its founder Brian Verity while celebrating the team who carry his legacy forward today.

Managing Director Sarah Barraclough said: “I’m proud to be leading Verity & Co Homes into this new chapter. This name honours our beginnings, while also celebrating the people who stand beside me today, the ‘& Co’. Their skill, care and pride are what give meaning to this name. Together, we’re committed to building homes designed for modern life, crafted with care and designed to last.”

APPETITE FOR SUCCESS

The Michelin Starred restaurant, SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, based at the five-star Gilpin Hotel & Lake House near Windermere have had a wonderful few months, adding to their array of accolades with an incredible 4 AA Rosettes at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards last month. During the summer, they were also crowned winner of the ‘Taste of Cumbria –Fine Dining’ category at the Cumbria Tourism Awards. Judges praised SOURCE for “high quality, imaginative cooking with tasting menus designed around the guest rather than the chef, creating a truly tailored dining experience”.

Verity & Co Homes remains an independent, family-owned business with a track record of almost 4,000 homes delivered across Yorkshire since 1986. Rooted in family values and driven by a vision for progress, the company says it continues to focus on quality homes that feel different because they are built with care.

UNIQUE IN EVERY WAY

The luxury Lake District hotel, Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, have retained their two Michelin Keys for 2025. This award – which is decided upon by industry experts – is the hotel equivalent of Michelin stars and celebrates those that provide an exceptional stay that is “unique in every way, where a memorable experience is always a guarantee”. Inspectors praised Gilpin for its “classic country house hospitality and a lack of pretentiousness” and special recognition was reserved for the restaurants at the property, including SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel which Michelin highlighted as ‘perhaps’ Gilpin’s “greatest draw, serving sophisticated, award-winning dishes crafted from local Cumbrian ingredients”.

Selling a business requires careful planning and strategic execution. Proper preparation can enhance its value and ensure a successful transaction. Keith Hardington and Rebecca Geldard of the corporate commercial team at Walker Foster outline some key considerations

PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR SALE

Thinking about selling your business? Treat it like staging a home for the perfect viewing: fix the snags before anyone steps through the door, assemble a calm, capable team and have every document exactly where it should be. From identifying issues early (so buyers don’t) to lining up experienced advisers, this is about protecting value and momentum. With tidy books, clear risk planning and consents mapped out in advance, you’ll glide through due diligence, keep confidence high and avoid last-minute price chips or deal wobble. Smart preparation isn’t a luxury, it’s the difference between a smooth exit and a stalled sale.

Identify issues

It is critical for the seller to identify issues with a business to be sold before engaging with buyers. If a buyer identifies an issue before the seller, the seller is on the back foot on that specific issue – and the buyer’s confidence in the seller’s overall process and quality of information might be undermined which can lead to the seller having to provide an indemnity to address the issue or accept a price deduction. If the issue is of sufficient magnitude, it may mean that the deal does not proceed.

Your support team

Your management team will play a pivotal role in the sale process, providing insights into the business operations and assisting in negotiations and information in the due diligence process.

A WELL-PREPARED DUE DILIGENCE PACKAGE NOT ONLY INSTILS CONFIDENCE IN POTENTIAL BUYERS BUT ALSO EXPEDITES THE TRANSACTION PROCESS

Engage experienced legal advisers such as Walker Foster Solicitors who can guide you through the legal complexities of the sale, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations and delivering the intended outcome.

Accountants will be essential in preparing financial statements and addressing tax implications of the sale. They will work with you on the tax implications of the deal, to deal with any consideration price adjustments, completions accounts or locked box or apportionments.

Determining the appropriate method of sale

Consulting with your deal team will help you determine the most suitable method based on your objectives and the nature of your business.

Consider if there are assets, such as properties, licences, permits, intellectual property rights, contracts or other interests such as an entitlement to receive anticipated litigation proceeds, within the business that you wish to retain or if there are assets outside of the target that should be included in the sale.

Keeping the books up to date

The seller should consider using the time before the sale to ensure that the company books and records are up to date and to make sure that it has copies of all title documents, material contracts and other key documents

that a buyer is likely to request as part of its due diligence process in order to demonstrate the seller’s title to the target and assets.

Risks

Every business carries a degree of risk and every potential buyer of a business needs to assess and quantify that risk.

For example, the business being sold may be party to ongoing or imminent litigation. If the target business is a claimant, the seller may want to retain the right to receive the anticipated, or at least hoped for, recoveries from the process. If the target business is a defendant, the seller may expect the buyer to take on the process and the risk of losses or, alternatively, may have to provide the buyer with an indemnity to cover that risk.

Due diligence

Taking the time to prepare in advance for the buyer’s due diligence process, such as by collating documents for a data room, is likely to be time well spent.

Due diligence is a critical phase in the sale process where potential buyers assess the business’s financial health, legal standing and operational efficiency. To facilitate this, ensure that all necessary documentation is organised and readily available. This includes financial statements, tax records, contracts and compliance documents. A well-prepared due diligence package not only instils confidence in potential buyers but also expedites the transaction process.

Compile detailed information on your business operations, including customer and supplier relationships.

Consider a non-disclosure agreement before sharing any sensitive information with a buyer.

Consents

The seller should consider what regulatory or other consents will be needed to implement a transaction. On a share sale, the seller should also consider whether there are change of control provisions in material contracts, licences or leases that could trigger termination or a penalty on completion of the transaction. On a business sale, thirdparty consents may be required to transfer the target assets.

Services agreements

While some transactions represent a clean break, with the target business and its new owner ceasing to have any ongoing relationship with the seller after completion, in many cases there is an ongoing business

relationship. In some cases, a long-term commercial agreement may be negotiated as part of the sale.

CONSIDER A NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT BEFORE SHARING ANY SENSITIVE INFORMATION WITH A BUYER

In conclusion

Selling your business is a complex process that requires careful consideration and planning. By organising a competent deal team, choosing the appropriate method of sale, ensuring information is readily available for due diligence and prioritising planning and preparation, you can facilitate a smooth and successful transaction. Neglecting these steps can lead to delays, reduced sale value and potential deal failures. Therefore, investing time and resources in planning is not just advisable but essential for achieving your desired outcome. n

Walker Foster Solicitors

Skipton Office

3 High Street, Skipton BD23 1AA 01756 700200

Barnoldswick Office Craven House

Newtown, Barnoldswick BB18 5UQ 01282 812340

Silsden Office

63 Kirkgate, Silsden, Keighley BD20 0PD 01535 656000

Settle Office

The Old White Horse Market Place, Settle BD24 9EF 01729 811240

Ilkley Office

27 Riddings Road, Ilkley LS29 9LX 01943 609969

Northallerton Office

Century House, Thornfield Business Park

Northallerton DL6 2XQ 01609 711158

Harrogate Office

First Floor, 7 Victoria Avenue

Harrogate HG1 1EQ 01423 222950

walkerfoster.com

THE ADVENTURER THAT’S 4 ALL

Big personality, bigger possibilities – the new MINI Countryman ALL4 proves that adventure really is for everyone. Charles Jenkins gets behind the wheel to find out more.

Photography: Anthony P Driver

There’s something wonderfully democratic about the MINI Countryman ALL4. It doesn’t care if you’re chasing mountain views or school runs, coffee dates or country lanes –it’s simply up for all of it. MINI calls it the Countryman ALL4. I call it the SUV that’s truly 4 All.

From the outside, the Countryman has grown up – but not out of its sense of fun. The new design gives it a bolder stance and a more assertive face, but there’s still that unmistakable MINI cheekiness hiding in the details. Upright proportions hint at

practicality, while the adaptive LED headlights wink at you like an old friend who knows how to get you into (and out of) trouble.

Our test car wasn’t just any Countryman –it was the Countryman SE ALL4 sport style in John Cooper Works (JCW) black and it wore its intentions on its sleeve. Race-inspired front grille and rear designs give it an unmistakable sense of purpose, while muscular arches and larger alloy wheels hint at what’s under the bonnet. Even a school-run feels a little like a Grand Prix.

Step inside and the Sport model really comes alive. MINI sports seats upholstered

in knitted material and Vescin hug you like a bespoke race car, while the black-and-red JCW colour scheme extends from dash to door panels for a cabin that feels playful, precise and indulgent. The perforated Vescin JCW sports steering wheel, with red stitching and Vibrant Silver accents, makes cornering feel less like work and more like choreography – even on tight urban roundabouts.

ALL4 ISN’T JUST FOUR WHEELS — IT’S FOUR TIMES THE CONFIDENCE, FOUR TIMES THE FUN

There’s also more space than before –noticeably so. The Countryman is longer, wider and taller, meaning adults can now sit comfortably in the rear without knees grazing the front. The boot swallows a family’s weekend gear with ease, yet the driving position remains snug and engaging. You feel like part of the car, not simply a passenger.

The ALL4 system – MINI’s all-wheel drive setup – adds confidence to that trademark go-kart handling. Whether you’re tackling

a wet B-road or a muddy car park at the local farm shop, the Countryman feels planted, composed and braver than you might expect but it’s reassuringly capable when adventure calls.

This all-electric Countryman (a petrol variant is also available) doesn’t just talk the talk, its performance and efficiency back it up. With twin motors powering all four wheels it delivers a robust 230kW, making 0-62mph in a mere 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 111mph. The steering is light but precise and the ride comfort strikes a smart balance between sporty and smooth. Our model offered an impressive range of up to 267 miles, and when you do need to charge a DC fast charger (up to 130 kW) can take you from 10-80 per cent in around only 29 minutes.

MINI’s driver assistance tech has also stepped up. The Level 3 pack offers an incredible 19 options including panoramic

glass sunroof, electric memory seats, AR Navigation, 360 camera, interior camera, driving assistance professional, head up display, heated seats, heated steering wheel, Apple Car Play, android auto, Harmon Kardon sound system, high beam assistance and wireless charging! Phew, the list goes on!

The Countryman may be clever, but it never feels clinical. Personality remains intact – a wink, a nod, a reminder that driving can still be fun.

And it’s that spirit that makes the Countryman ALL4 such a charmer. It doesn’t force you to choose between practicality and personality, between family life and freedom. It’s as comfortable on city streets as it is on winding country roads, as stylish

on the school run as it is spirited on a weekend escape.

Because ultimately, this isn’t a car just for drivers. It’s a car for doers, for dreamers, for families, for friends. It’s 4 mornings at the market, 4 muddy dogs, 4 weekend detours that last a little longer than planned.

RACE-INSPIRED DESIGN MEETS EVERYDAY PRACTICALITY – CORNERS HAVE NEVER FELT SO FUN

By the time you’ve lived with it, the MINI Countryman ALL4 Sport doesn’t just feel like a car. It feels like a companion –practical enough to handle the everyday

and playful enough to make every day feel like an adventure.

Some cars are built to move people. The Countryman ALL4 Sport is built to move everyone – in every sense of the word. It really is 4 All. n

Lloyd Colne MINI Crown Way, Colne BB8 9NP 01282 720720

lloydcolnemini.co.uk

NEW ERA FOR HISTORIC PUB

An historic inn which traces its history to the 16th century is being brought back to life by new owners Alexa and Chris Ives. They describe their future plans and success so far.

Photography: Daniel Harrison

The New Inn at Appletreewick is no stranger to the limelight. An important part of village life for many generations, the distinctive hostelry rose to fame in 1971 as the UK’s first non-smoking pub. In the 1990s it became a mecca for cyclists with a mountain

bike livery under legendary landlord and endurance rider John Pitchers. And now it is starting to make a name for itself again with a new trinity of talent. After a fallow period in recent years, the pub was taken over by husband and wife Alexa and Chris with the aim of putting it back on the map as a haven for real ale and spirit lovers, as well as a destination for foodies looking for something significantly different.

Alexa is experienced in the hospitality business at a senior level, with eight years working front of house at The Box Tree.

She says: “We have lived in the neighbouring hamlet of Skyreholme for about 10 years and visited the New Inn regularly, getting to know the previous owners. We have a background in brewing and hospitality,

so when the previous owners mentioned they were thinking of selling we thought, why not! The New Inn is an Appletreewick icon and we wanted to reinvigorate it as a popular locals’ pub and a destination for great food and hospitality for visitors.

THE DISTINCTIVE HOSTELRY ROSE TO FAME IN 1971 AS THE UK’S FIRST NON-SMOKING PUB

“We have made some changes to the décor over the last 12 months but still have lots of plans. The bedrooms are amazing but we want to put our own stamp on those next.”

Chris brings beer and spirits expertise with impressive credentials. He founded Ilkley Brewery in 2009, going on to sell it in 2015. He and Alexa became founding partners in Otterbeck Distillery along with two other couples and Chris’s unique recipe for their Cotton Gin scooped gold and silver awards in international spirits competitions in 2021 and 2022.

He described their decision to take over their local pub: “The Inn has an incredible history going back to the 16th century and was famed as the first no-smoking venue in the UK, but it’s also always been at the heart of the local community, so we wanted to bring the pub back to life for our fellow locals. The reaction so far has been incredibly supportive and not just because they are visiting us for drinks and food, we have had help from various friends in the community with building works, repairs, decorating and even jumping behind the bar to help when we are busy!”

Alexa adds: “Chris’ background as founder of Ilkley Brewery and the creator of its award-winning beers, then winning awards for Cotton Gin around the world, means we have a great insight into the manufacturing side of the industry. We understand the importance of a village pub as the heart of the community and the need to employ local people and support other local businesses – that’s one of the reasons we wanted to do this.”

The couple quietly settled in as landlords at the New Inn during the winter of 2024/25 and began their search for a chef with vision. By the spring they were joined by Mikael Paylor, a Dales lad who migrated to London at the age of 22, returning to Wharfedale edging 40 to take up free rein in the kitchen.

In London, Mikael learned his trade under celebrated chefs including Richard Corrigan and Brendan Fyldes in Mayfair, first at the famed Bentley’s Oyster Bar and then at the five-star Stafford Hotel where he became sous chef. From there he joined Mark Hix in Soho, where he became head chef under

group head chef and TV personality Ronnie Murray. Mikael then turned his hand to troubleshooting for a Manchester based Italian restaurant chain, fixing failing kitchens across the country by training chefs and building teams.

WE AIM TO BE DIFFERENT AND I’M USING OLD YORKSHIRE RECIPES  TO BUILD MY UNIQUE MENU ALONGSIDE SOME PUB CLASSICS

Born and bred in Grassington, Mikael had a hankering to return to Wharfedale. A regular New Inn customer, Mikael’s aunt, connected the dots and made an introduction.

Mikael and his partner Sian Stansfield, who joins the team as a pastry chef in the kitchen and support for Alexa behind the bar, moved in to help with the new chapter

at the New Inn in the spring. Mikael says: “Yorkshire is my home and I always wanted to come back but was waiting for the right opportunity where I could showcase my own menu.”

Describing his vision for the kitchen he adds: “We want to create a kitchen garden and work with local suppliers so we are genuinely as sustainable as we can be. We aim to be different and I’m using old Yorkshire recipes to build my unique menu alongside some pub classics.”

Mikael is already grabbing attention on TikTok, with more than 23,000 views for a recent video explaining the integrity of his cooking and what to expect from his kitchen at the New Inn. With home-grown produce the bedrock in his plans, his ideas, including a hydroponic wall in the kitchen for growing salad and herbs, feature strongly in his menu. Other features include an extensive kitchen garden along with solar

panels, beehives and medieval species of fruit trees as well as apple, pear and plum. Seven varieties of mushrooms are growing in the shed.

Mikael’s signature dish is ox heart, borne of his commitment to ‘nose to tail’ use of meat sourced from local farms and the butchers in nearby Pateley Bridge. Dales Dairies in Grassington and local cheesemakers supply dairy produce. Mikael’s brother, a local gamekeeper, will supply not only pheasant but also grouse, snipe, teal, widgeon, mallards and woodcock –in the same way that he did when Mikael was cooking for the Mayfair set.

The level of skill he acquired in those years means Mikael is raising the bar back on home turf. It’s second nature for him to create everything from scratch, from brioche

buns and bread through to ice cream.

Yet Alexa, Chris and Mikael are all keen to ‘keep it real’ and champion the New Inn as a traditional local pub without the fine dining cliché. Sunday lunch is already going down a storm, served here with a big difference – presented on massive sharing platters for a relaxed family feast atmosphere

MIKAEL’S BROTHER, A LOCAL GAMEKEEPER, WILL SUPPLY NOT ONLY PHEASANT BUT ALSO GROUSE, SNIPE, TEAL, WIDGEON, MALLARDS AND WOODCOCK

which is proving hugely popular.

Chris explains “People like the informality of being able to help themselves to as much or as little as they like from beautiful

vintage serving plates, somehow it evokes the atmosphere of traditional Sunday roasts from childhood, I guess.”

The inn offers six en-suite guest bedrooms, most with a knock-out view of the stunning Wharfedale scenery.

The team’s hard work and vision is already being recognised. The New Inn came 2nd (Highly Commended) in the Best New Business category of the Deliciously Yorkshire awards – a result they were thrilled by. Mikael was a finalist in the Rising Star award.

The annual awards are the biggest of their kind in the north of England and this year attracted a record number of entries from food and drink businesses throughout Yorkshire and the Humber. n

appletreewick.pub

SWEET TREAT

DAVE’S FAMOUS STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING

This delicious take on an old favourite is the work of David Adegunwa, chef at The Gamekeeper’s Inn, Threshfield, for about 20 years. A huge hit with customers, the pudding is made with gluten free flour

Ingredients:

400g of GLUTEN FREE self raising flour

400g of caster sugar

400g of salted butter

5 medium eggs

666ml of water

500g of chopped dates

33g of bicarbonate of soda

Method:

This makes 16 portions. At 160 degrees steam roast for 50 minutes.

The method for the sticky toffee pudding is:

1. Bring the dates to a boil with bicarb of soda and water. Allow to cool slightly.

2. Cream together butter and sugar, adding eggs one by one.

3. Combine the flour into the mix, followed by the dates and liquid.

4. Pour into a greaseproof lined tray and bake at 160 degrees for 35-50 minutes.

5. You can serve with salted caramel ice cream, toffee sauce and berries. n

gamekeeperinn.co.uk

Michael’s culinary philosophy is simple yet unwavering – to serve honest, seasonal dishes cooked with precision and heart. The menu leans into comfort in the most sophisticated way, from pub classics elevated with trademark Heathcote finesse to lighter, seasonal plates and carefully crafted desserts. Regulars return for the steak and ale suet pudding, delicately beer-battered haddock and a soothing Lancashire cheese soufflé, all executed with a sure hand and a lightness of touch. Whether it’s a beautifully baked fish dish or a vibrant vegetarian special, each plate reflects a deep respect for local produce and the sort of generosity that keeps guests coming back time and again.

MICHAEL’S CULINARY PHILOSOPHY IS SIMPLE YET UNWAVERING – TO SERVE HONEST, SEASONAL

DISHES COOKED WITH PRECISION AND HEART

Just down the road, his son Harry has taken up the family mantle and added his own fresh twist with The Wild Buck. Occupying the beautifully renovated ground floor of the historic Assembly Rooms, this stylish café-deli-bistro hybrid has already become a hit with locals and visitors alike. Open from breakfast through to evening drinks, it offers an irresistible mix of vibrant brunches, artisan pastries and charcuterie, all alongside curated wines and cocktails.

THE BUCKS STOP HERE

The Ribble Valley village of Waddington is playing host to a new definition of a night or two away, with a renowned father and son duo leading a true celebration of Lancashire’s rich hospitality heritage, writes Katie Hammond

Between them, Michael and Harry Heathcote have created two distinct yet harmonious offerings – the refined, yet rustic Higher Buck and, just downstream via the village’s pretty babbling brook, its spirited new sibling, The Wild Buck. Each is a celebration of quality, provenance and the joy of good food shared.

The Higher Buck has long been a cornerstone of village life, nestled proudly in the village square amid cobbled streets and historic stone cottages. Under the expert guidance of Michael Heathcote, a name synonymous with great food and understated excellence,

the inn’s seven cosy rooms are always ready to accommodate those wanting to make a night of it. With deserving accolades including entries in the Good Food Guide and a coveted spot in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs, the warm tartan fabrics, reclaimed wood and a welcoming fire set the tone for an experience which perfectly balances countryside charm with contemporary comfort – everything you could ask for in a cheeky (dinner, bed and breakfast) mid-week night away or a longer weekend stay to explore the stunning Ribble Valley.

By day, the focus is relaxed, generous daytime dining – coffee and cake at the counter, leisurely brunches with friends or a quick bite between meetings. A hearty full Lancashire breakfast rubs shoulders with

breakfast burrito’s or much loved sarnie’s stacked with bacon and eggs, colourful salads and sandwiches with a deli-style edge, while daily specials make the most of what’s good and in season. There’s a clear

commitment to quality here too, with carefully chosen suppliers and a kitchen team who understand how to let great ingredients speak for themselves.

As afternoon slips into evening, The Wild Buck shifts gear and takes on a more grown-up feel. Glassware clinks, candles are lit and the pace slows. It’s the perfect spot for an after-work drink, a sharing board and a catch-up, or a relaxed date-night supper. Cheese and charcuterie boards, small plates made for sharing and a succinct yet thoughtful list of wines, beers and classic cocktails make it the kind of place you’ll quickly adopt as a favourite local.

WE WANTED TO CREATE SOMETHING FRESH AND EXCITING, BUT ALSO WITH A RELAXED FEELING OF FAMILIARITY

For Harry, the concept was clear from the start: “We wanted to create something fresh and exciting, but also with a relaxed feeling of familiarity. Waddington has a rich tradition of hospitality and we’re delighted to be part of it.” That sense of easy warmth is evident from the moment you walk in the door – a genuine welcome, a buzz of conversation and the comforting clatter of a place that feels properly lived in.

Together, the two Bucks embody the best of both worlds – the refined comfort of a traditional English inn and the vibrant creativity of modern café culture. Spend an afternoon walking the Ribble Valley, check into one of the Higher Buck’s snug bedrooms and linger over a long supper, then wander down to The Wild Buck the

next morning for a restorative breakfast and a read of the papers. Whether you’re savouring a hearty lunch and a cosy room at The Higher, or sipping wine over charcuterie at The Wild, both reflect a shared family ethos of genuine warmth, impeccable sourcing and a celebration of the love of great food.

As the Heathcotes continue to shape Waddington’s culinary scene, one thing is certain – this is a village where hospitality truly runs in the blood. n

The Higher Buck

The Square, Waddington BB7 3HZ 01200 423226

higherbuck.com

The Wild Buck

Clitheroe Road, Waddington BB7 BHP 01200 869888

wildbuck.co.uk

A SEASON TO SAVOUR

The Rum Fox in Grindleton invites you to celebrate the festive season in style, with exquisite menus, warm hospitality and the unmistakable touch of Chef Patron Bob Geldeard

As the nights draw in and the Ribble Valley slips into its winter glow, The Rum Fox is ready to welcome guests for a season filled with exceptional food, fine wines and convivial cheer. Chef Patron Bob Geldeard, together with partner Kiaja Monk and their dedicated team, are already busy bringing a little magic to the table.

While Christmas Day itself is fully booked (a testament to the restaurant’s popularity) there are still plenty of reasons to visit in the weeks leading up to it. Whether it’s a cosy lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a private gathering with family and friends, The Rum Fox is the perfect festive setting. And there’s no need to wait until Christmas, the Seasonal and Tasting Menus are available throughout November and December, offering the perfect way to start celebrating early.

At the heart of The Rum Fox’s philosophy is a commitment to seasonality and local produce. The Seasonal Menu showcases comforting flavours with refined technique. Expect dishes that are both familiar and elevated, like Morecambe Bay wild sea bass with garlic-roasted potatoes, chorizo and

blood orange sauce, where zesty citrus meets smoky richness, or the Lancashire cheese soufflé with cheese sauce and Grindleton apple chutney, light yet indulgent and utterly irresistible.

For those seeking something more adventurous, the Tasting Menu offers a seven-course surprise journey that captures the essence of modern British dining. Each

course is crafted with imagination and finesse, a culinary adventure that balances comfort and surprise, designed for the whole table to share in together.

The centrepiece of the festive season however, is The Rum Fox’s Christmas Set Menu, available from 3rd-23rd December. Beautifully considered and full of warmth, it captures the generosity and joy of festive dining without compromise.

Starters include scallop, prawn and haddock gratin, gently baked in a shellfish sauce with an nduja crust, rich, delicately spiced and deeply satisfying or there is the delicious, signature Lancashire cheese soufflé.

AS THE FESTIVE SEASON APPROACHES, THE TEAM ARE EXCITED TO WELCOME GUESTS OLD AND NEW TO SHARE IN WHAT THEY’VE CREATED

For the main event, the roasted turkey breast with stuffing, pig in blanket, confit leg and potato terrine delivers all the nostalgic flavours of Christmas, elevated by precise cooking and perfectly balanced accompaniments. Vegetarians are equally well treated with Jerusalem artichoke roasted, puréed and crisped, served with pickled shimeji mushrooms and olive oil-crushed potatoes, a dish full of depth and texture.

To finish, desserts bring a joyful finale.

The Millionaire shortbread with Downham honey ice cream is indulgent and luxurious, while the blood orange panna cotta with pistachio sponge and granita provides a bright, refreshing close to the meal.

Quality runs through every detail, from the ingredients and craft to the service itself. Each dish reflects Bob Geldeard’s philosophy: to create food rooted in local tradition yet inspired by contemporary technique.

In between the flurry of Christmas parties and festive indulgence, The Rum Fox’s much-loved Sunday Lunch remains a highlight. With perfectly cooked meats, crisp roast potatoes and that unmistakable Rum Fox flair, it’s the kind of meal that brings guests back week after week. Booking is advised, seats tend to fill quickly once word gets around.

Gift vouchers are also available, an ideal present for food lovers who appreciate quality, craft and the special experience this Grindleton gem delivers.

For those wishing to host something more intimate, The Rum Fox offers private dining for up to 10 people. Tucked away from the main restaurant, this elegant space is perfect for family get-togethers, small celebrations or business gatherings. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, with attentive service that makes every guest feel like part of the family.

Whether you visit for the Christmas Set

Menu, the surprise Tasting experience, or a relaxed lunch from the Seasonal Menu, what unites it all is the quality of the food, the service and the experience.

WE LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR. IT’S WHEN THE

RESTAURANT REALLY

COMES ALIVE, THE FLAVOURS, THE ATMOSPHERE, THE SENSE OF TOGETHERNESS

As the festive season approaches, Bob, Kiaja and their team look forward to welcoming guests old and new. “We love this time of year,” says Bob. “It’s when the restaurant really comes alive, the flavours, the atmosphere, the sense of togetherness. We can’t wait to celebrate it with everyone.”

So, while Christmas Day may already be spoken for, there’s no reason to wait until December to start celebrating. Whether it’s a midweek lunch, a tasting menu treat, or an evening in the private dining room, The Rum Fox promises a festive experience to savour, one that captures the very best of the season. n

Christmas Set Menu

Two courses £39 - Three courses £45

STARTERS

Soup

Caramelised onion, cheese stuffed

potato skin

Game terrine

Liver parfait, Grindleton damson chutney, toasted sourdough

Scallop, prawn and haddock gratin

Shellfish sauce, nduja crust

Lancashire cheese soufflé

Grindleton apple chutney, chive

MAINS

Turkey

Roasted breast, stuffing, pig in blanket, confit leg and potato terrine, creamed sprouts, roasted parsnip, cranberry sauce

Peppered venison pie

Crinkle cut chips, roasted roots, pepper sauce

Cod

Garlic roasted potatoes, pickled mussels, mussel and white wine sauce

Jerusalem artichoke

Roasted, puree and crisps, pickled shimeji mushrooms, olive oil crushed potatoes

DESSERTS

Mince meat and apple pie

Brandy sauce

Millionaire shortbread

Downham honey ice cream

Blood orange

Panna cotta, pistachio sponge, blood orange granita

Courtyard Dairy cheese

Selection of three

Available Wednesday and Thursday lunch and dinner. Friday and Saturday lunch GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE ONLINE

The perfect gift for the foody in your life

01200 871691

info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk

A CULINARY JOURNEY

Shaun Rankin, Chef Patron of Grantley Hall shares the inspiration behind his new book, A Taste of Provenance. Photography: Justin DeSouza

For Michelin-starred chef Shaun Rankin, food has always been more than technique or presentation. It has been a place –a landscape, a memory, a story. From his Yorkshire childhood to kitchens in Chicago and Western Australia, through his acclaimed years in Jersey and finally to his homecoming at Grantley Hall, Shaun’s culinary journey has been shaped by the idea that ingredients carry meaning. Now, for the first time, that journey has been distilled not into a menu, but a coffee-table book – a celebration of the people, philosophies and produce that define his work at Grantley Hall.

“It felt like the right moment to bring all of that together,” Shaun says. “The book is about the journey of the restaurant – the inspiration behind setting it up and the people who shaped it.”

SHAUN’S CULINARY JOURNEY HAS BEEN SHAPED BY THE IDEA THAT INGREDIENTS CARRY MEANING

Rather than producing a typical chef’s tome of stylised plates, Shaun wanted to capture the sensory world of the restaurant, its kitchen garden, the textures of handforaged ingredients, the changing seasons. “I’m led by what’s in season and what our growers and foragers bring in,” he says. At Grantley Hall, the garden is planned twelve months ahead, foraging takes place across the estate. “The visuals lean into texture, place and produce rather than staging.”

This sense of place has always been central to his cooking, though the landscapes

have changed. In his early career, Shaun travelled widely – working at Charlie Trotter’s in Chicago, then in Western Australia. These experiences left a lasting mark. “Travel is amazing for a chef,” he says. “I remember tasting Kobe beef in Chicago for the first time – it completely blew my mind. There was no expense spared and it gave me real insight into top-quality ingredients and how to pair them to create exceptional dishes.”

Yet it was Jersey, where he lived and cooked for over two decades, that defined the first half of his culinary identity. His 2010 cookbook was steeped in the island’s unique “nine-mile-long garden”, using hyper-local produce grown, caught or foraged daily. Moving to Grantley Hall in North Yorkshire offered both contrast and continuity. “The Jersey book was rooted in an island pantry,” he explains. “Moving to Yorkshire gave me access to different local ingredients and an opportunity to return to my roots.”

The parallels between the two are subtle but powerful. “Both are defined by a strong

sense of place – Jersey by sea and gardens, Yorkshire by its fields, hedgerows and coast. Each gives you a different larder that guides your cooking.” Today, Shaun aims to source within 30 miles where possible, with only a few exceptions such as Scottish seafood. “We taste what’s in peak season and listen to what growers are excited about before building dishes around that.”

This reflects his broader philosophy: “Buy the best you can, cook it in season, don’t overwork it.” Respect for ingredients guides everything and sustainability naturally follows. “Seasonality and close relationships with producers push us toward responsible sourcing – using what’s at its best and wasting less.”

I REMEMBER TASTING KOBE BEEF IN CHICAGO FOR THE FIRST TIME –IT COMPLETELY BLEW MY MIND

Classical technique remains his foundation. Reinvention comes from collaboration and a sense of British regionality – elegant service, tableside touches and dishes that honour local heritage. He distils it simply: “Inspiration comes from the ingredients, always.”

Among the dishes featured in the book, one holds particular emotional weight: Bread, Butter, Dripping and Beef Tea. “It comes from one of my signature courses on the Taste of Home menu,” he explains. “It’s inspired by childhood memories of dipping soft bread into leftover gravy during Sunday lunches at home – and it pays homage to Yorkshire’s reputation for tea.” It is a plate where nostalgia meets refinement and precisely the type of storytelling that shapes the tenor of the book.

Although the book is rich with culinary craft, for Shaun, its heart lies closer to home. His love of food began as a child, watching his mother cook and feeling the warmth of family gathered around the table. “Food became a way of bringing people together and creating positive memories,” he says. Those early experiences continue to guide him – through every kitchen he has worked in and every chapter of this book.

When readers reach the final page, Shaun hopes they feel something simple yet profound: “I hope they feel inspired to come together, cook and make memories.”

Perhaps that is the true essence of the book: a beautifully crafted invitation – not just to admire, but to gather, taste and connect. n

grantlyhall.co.uk

AND CRANBERRY PANETTONE TOASTIE GRILLED BRIE

Serves: 2

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

Drizzle of oil

1 red onion, finely sliced

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp brown sugar

1 tsp butter

2 tbsp cranberry sauce

1 orange, zest only

4 slices panettone

200g brie

Method:

• Heat the oil in a pan and cook the onions for approximately five minutes until translucent.

• Add the red wine vinegar, sugar, mustard and butter to the pan and cook for a further 10 minutes.

• Add the cranberry sauce and cook for a further two to three minutes. Add the orange zest and remove from the heat.

This delicious festive recipe is brought to you by award-winning, local supermarket Booths booths.co.uk

• Heat a dry griddle pan and add two slices of panettone.

• Place slices of brie on top dividing equally between the two slices.

• Spoon the caramelised cranberry onions on and place the other slices of panettone on top.

• Cook for two to three minutes each side and serve warm. n

Chef’s tip: This is a great way of using leftover panettone.

1 tsp Dijon mustard

The most time of the year!

The guests are arriving, On with the show, Knock their socks off, With chef-inspired nibbles from Gazebo to find

STELLAR LINE-UP

A culinary celebration at The Three Fishes saw a line-up of top chefs from all over the world demonstrate their skills over the week-long event. Photography: Scott Eckersley-Bell

Chef Nigel Haworth and The Three Fishes are delighted to announce the resounding success of Fusion 2, the second edition of their week-long culinary celebration held in the picturesque Ribble Valley. The event was a complete sell-out within 48 hours of launch, drawing food lovers from near and far for a week of world-class dining, community spirit and exceptional

hospitality – all in aid of Hospitality Action, for which an impressive £7,000 was raised to support those in need across the industry.

The week opened with Angelo Sabatelli from the Michelin-starred Angelo Sabatelli Ristorante in Italy, who delighted guests with contemporary Apulian cuisine. This was followed by Kirk Haworth from Plates, London, presenting innovative plant-based fine dining.

Renowned chef Atul Kochhar brought his acclaimed modern Indian cuisine and the midweek highlight saw Nigel Haworth himself take centre stage, presenting Lancashire’s finest.

THE WEEK OPENED WITH ANGELO SABATELLI FROM THE MICHELIN-STARRED ANGELO SABATELLI RISTORANTE IN ITALY, WHO DELIGHTED GUESTS WITH CONTEMPORARY APULIAN CUISINE

Shaun Rankin from nearby Grantley Hall, Yorkshire, continued the stellar line-up and the penultimate evening featured celebrated restaurateur and author Thuy Diem Pham,

who brought authentic Vietnamese flavours and cherished family recipes to life. The week concluded with a relaxed Jazz Brunch accompanied by live music.

“Fusion 2 was everything I hoped it would be and more, a true celebration of creativity, collaboration and community,” said Nigel Haworth.

“The atmosphere was electric all week and I’m incredibly proud that together we raised £7,000 for Hospitality Action.

“Bringing together such diverse culinary voices, from Angelo’s sublime Italian craftsmanship to Thuy’s heartfelt Vietnamese storytelling, the showcase demonstrated the beautiful possibilities when great chefs unite. I want to thank every chef, guest and sponsor who made this event possible.”

The festival was proudly supported by

an exceptional group of partners including Deepbridge Capital, Zara Moon Architects, Everything Retreat, Gastronomy Plus, Bowker BMW, Gusbourne Wine, Berkmann

FROM SUBLIME

ITALIAN CRAFTSMANSHIP TO HEARTFELT VIETNAMESE STORYTELLING, THE SHOWCASE DEMONSTRATED THE BEAUTIFUL POSSIBILITIES WHEN GREAT CHEFS UNITE

Wines, Midland Fish, Udale, Ribble Farm, Petrossian, Lovingly Artisan, Wee Shell Fish, Farnsworths’ Fresh Foods and Primrose Dairy.

Fusion 2 has cemented its reputation as one of the Ribble Valley’s most anticipated

culinary events, embodying The Three Fishes’ continued commitment to showcasing British farm-to-fork dining with international flair.

Located in the idyllic village of Mitton near Whalley, The Three Fishes is celebrated for its contemporary yet cosy atmosphere and dedication to locally sourced, seasonal produce. Under Nigel Haworth’s leadership, the restaurant continues to be a destination for exceptional British cuisine with creative international influences. n

thethreefishes.co.uk

@thethreefishesmitton

GOOD READ

We take a look at three very different cook books that are full of flavour and made to be savoured –the perfect gift this Christmas!

As the nights draw in and kitchens start to glow with the scent of cinnamon and roast potatoes, there’s something special about gifting a cookbook at Christmas. These aren’t just manuals – they’re invitations to slow down, gather around and create joy from scratch. Whether you’re buying for a keen foodie, a creative home cook or a budding baker, these three titles are the perfect present. Books like these don’t just teach you how to cook – they teach you how to create memories. And at Christmas, isn’t that the best gift of all?

FOR HER: COMFORT

Candice Brown

Warm, nostalgic and indulgent – Comfort is a hug in book form. Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown brings heart and soul to every page, offering recipes rooted in memory and family.

From slow braised stews to puddings laced with festive spices, it’s a celebration of honest, feel-good food. Candice writes with honesty and humour, inviting the reader to cook not just for nutrition, but for emotion because sometimes, what we really need is cake.

Wrap it up for: A sister, friend or mum who loves to feed others and be fed in return.

FOR HIM: COOKING

Jeremy Lee

Elegant, generous and unmistakably British. In Cooking, Jeremy Lee of Soho’s Quo Vadis offers more than recipes, he offers stories. This book is a joyful collection of timeless dishes, gathered from a life in hospitality and made personal through his rich storytelling. There’s a touch of Dickensian festivity in its pages with jellies, suet puddings, the perfect mince pie, but it’s also a masterclass in simple ingredients done well.

Wrap it up for: A thoughtful cook who reads recipes like poetry and enjoys long winter evenings in the kitchen.

FOR THE LITTLE ONES: BAKING WITH KIM-JOY

Kim-Joy

Playful, magical and irresistibly cute. Former Bake Off finalist Kim-Joy offers the perfect entry point for kids to discover the joy of baking. From penguin macarons to festive fox cupcakes, her instructions are simple enough to follow, yet imaginative enough to delight. It’s not just a recipe book – it’s a creative adventure for little bakers and their grown-ups to enjoy together.

Wrap it up for: A child who loves to mix, stir and decorate – and a parent happy to make a sweet mess.

COSTA RICA COFFEE GROWING REGIONS

Wild Pen Coffee Roasters source speciality coffee beans from farms in the Turrialba and Tarrazú regions – where volcanic soils and unique climates create exceptional flavours. Photography: Hawke.tv

Costa Rica is in Central America and lies between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Its coffee is considered among the world’s best and certified by place of origin, highlighting unique growing methods and regional character.

village, notable for the small historic church with its yellow exterior constructed of tin! There is a medical centre, shop and school for the local families and workers.

Hacienda La Minita farm is in the Tarrazú valley and mountains south west of the capital, San Jose. The soil is a pale clay, tan to light reddish and coffee is grown at 1,200 – 2,000 meters. The farm faces west towards the Pacific which allows for gradual warming in the morning and slow cooling in the evening. Their coffee possesses a citrus aroma with cacao and floral notes.

Aquiares Farm sits in the Turrialba Volcano region, with coffee cultivated in volcanic and alluvial soils at 1,100 – 1,400 meters. Caribbean influences enable early maturation and extended harvests, the coffee is smooth, with floral notes and a sugar cane honey aroma. The farm encompasses Aquiares

Wild Pen choose only the highest quality coffee beans, sourcing from farms in Costa Rica where ethical trading practices are highly valued. n

Single Origin - speciality coffee At Wild Pen we offer high-quality coffee traceable to the farms in C Costa Rica

Aquiares Microlot

Our fresh roasted coffee is a medium roast, city to full-city, that is well balanced and versatile

We now have a Mountain Water D'caff coffee from M Mexico, the D'caff process is certified as Organic

Tasting notes: winey,

Hacienda La Minita

Tasting notes:

Tasting notes: caramel,

RETURN OF THE NATIVE

Dominic Adams talks to the new Ilkley Golf Club General Manager Phil Jones about his journey back to Yorkshire

It’s a short trip from Harrogate to Ilkley but Phil Jones has definitely taken the long way round. Born in Harrogate in 1974, Phil was a member of Knaresborough Golf Club in his youth before going on to

complete his PGA training in 1999 whilst at Rudding Park near Harrogate. Development of young golfers has been a feature of his career ever since. After a six year spell of golf teaching as the Head Professional at Rudding, it was in late 2001 that things got really interesting for him with a move into golf operations and management in the Kingdom of Bahrain. As Phil says: “The opportunity to work in Golf’s emerging markets was attractive and proved to be every bit the challenge of working in the

UK or Europe. One of our most ambitious projects was creating the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain with IGC honorary member Colin Montgomerie OBE. The 27 hole masterpiece hosted the Volvo Golf Champions event in 2011, 18 months after its official opening.”

HIS FINAL INTERNATIONAL PROJECT WAS AS GENERAL MANAGER OF THE GREG NORMAN DESIGNED VAN LANG EMPIRE GOLF CLUB IN VIETNAM WHICH OPENED FOR PLAY LAST NOVEMBER

He went on to open the PGA Zavidovo course in Russia before moving to Azerbaijan, a country with plans to strengthen its economy with tourism and sports having been previously dependent on oil and gas production. The opening of Baku’s first golf course with luxury hotel, Dreamland, saw Colin Montgomerie hit the first shot in the presence of the country’s President, Ilham Aliyev. Monty was also on hand to give the young hopefuls of Azerbaijan a few tips to get them started through his very own academy. With this success complete, he moved back to the Middle East to join Golf Saudi and support the country’s ambitions to introduce the sport to the Kingdom’s young population as well as hosting the world’s leading professionals through the International Series and LIV Golf League. A quick look at the Riyadh Golf Club website reveals what an incredible enterprise it is with even night golf being part of the offer. Not a likely addition to the Ilkley agenda just yet but with the long summer days, there’s plenty of time to enjoy two or even three rounds there at the right time of year.

Some of the multitude of events Phil has been at the centre of organising both in Riyadh and at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club in Jeddah include: Aramco Team Series, Saudi Men’s International, Aramco Saudi Ladies International, MENA Tour, Asian Development Tour, Pan Arab Ladies and Juniors, Saudi Games, and the Asian Tour Saudi Open.

His final international project was as General Manager of the Greg Norman designed Van Lang Empire Golf Club in Vietnam which opened for play last November. As a consultant on this stunning new facility, Phil oversaw the recruitment and training of staff to ensure best practice

processes and standard operating procedures would be implemented.

Having rubbed shoulders with some very important people in the world of golf, politics, business and finance, Phil has always managed to keep his feet firmly on

THE LOCATION, STUNNING VIEWS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR ILKLEY GOLF CLUB TO BE RECOGNISED AS ONE OF THE LEADING COURSES IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND ARE EXCITING

the ground – probably a good Yorkshire trait. When asked what had tempted the Certified Club Manager back to the UK, he replies: “Twenty-four years travelling with my career has been a rewarding journey. But my wish was eventually to return to Harrogate

and catch up with family and friends. When the opportunity to join Ilkley was presented, I could see the potential for the club’s development and how I could contribute positively to that process.”

He goes on to outline his ambitions for the club, saying: “The location, stunning views and opportunities for Ilkley Golf Club to be recognised as one of the leading courses in the North of England are exciting. As a sporty town, seeing the younger players enjoying learning the game through our academy lessons and local schools programs shows the future of the game is in safe hands!”

With a dynamic young professional team, clubhouse staff and supportive members in all categories – juniors, ladies and men – we’re sure that Ilkley Golf Club is in safe hands too with this Advanced Fellow member of the Professional Golfers Association of Great Britain and Ireland in charge. n

Enjoy Outstanding Winter Golf with Unbeatable Group Packages

Enjoy Outstanding Winter Golf with Unbeatable Group Packages

Enjoy Outstanding Winter Golf with Unbeatable Group Packages

Enjoy Outstanding Winter Golf with Unbeatable

Group Packages

Enjoy Outstanding Winter Golf with Unbeatable Group Packages

Winter is the perfect time to discover (or rediscover) Ilkley Golf Club.

Winter is the perfect time to discover (or rediscover) Ilkley Golf Club.

Winter is the perfect time to discover (or rediscover) Ilkley Golf Club.

Winter is the perfect time to discover (or rediscover) Ilkley Golf Club.

Winter is the perfect time to discover (or rediscover) Ilkley Golf Club.

Celebrated as one of the most picturesque courses in the county, Ilkley offers exceptional winter golf. With greens positioned close to tees and minimal rough, you can enjoy a quick round with more time spent golfing — not searching for balls.

Celebrated as one of the most picturesque courses in the county, Ilkley offers exceptional winter golf. With greens positioned close to tees and minimal rough, you can enjoy a quick round with more time spent golfing — not searching for balls.

Celebrated as one of the most picturesque courses in the county, Ilkley offers exceptional winter golf. With greens positioned close to tees and minimal rough, you can enjoy a quick round with more time spent golfing — not searching for balls.

Celebrated as one of the most picturesque courses in the county, Ilkley offers exceptional winter golf. With greens positioned close to tees and minimal rough, you can enjoy a quick round with more time spent golfing — not searching for balls.

Celebrated as one of the most picturesque courses in the county, Ilkley offers exceptional winter golf. With greens positioned close to tees and minimal rough, you can enjoy a quick round with more time spent golfing — not searching for balls.

You’ll also play the full course all winter: no temporary greens, no temporary tees, and no fairway mats.

You’ll also play the full course all winter: no temporary greens, no temporary tees, and no fairway mats.

You’ll also play the full course all winter: no temporary greens, no temporary tees, and no fairway mats.

You’ll also play the full course all winter: no temporary greens, no temporary tees, and no fairway mats.

You’ll also play the full course all winter: no temporary greens, no temporary tees, and no fairway mats.

Thanks to our sandy soil, the course drains well and is often open when others are closed because they’re waterlogged.

Thanks to our sandy soil, the course drains well and is often open when others are closed because they’re waterlogged.

Thanks to our sandy soil, the course drains well and is often open when others are closed because they’re waterlogged.

Thanks to our sandy soil, the course drains well and is often open when others are closed because they’re waterlogged.

Thanks to our sandy soil, the course drains well and is often open when others are closed because they’re waterlogged.

Whether you’re planning a friendly two-ball or organising a group outing, Ilkley provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter round.

Whether you’re planning a friendly two-ball or organising a group outing, Ilkley provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter round.

Whether you’re planning a friendly two-ball or organising a group outing, Ilkley provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter round.

Whether you’re planning a friendly two-ball or organising a group outing, Ilkley provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter round.

Whether you’re planning a friendly two-ball or organising a group outing, Ilkley provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter round.

With great-value golf and catering packages for groups of four or more, it’s an experience that’s as affordable as it is enjoyable.

With great-value golf and catering packages for groups of four or more, it’s an experience that’s as affordable as it is enjoyable.

With great-value golf and catering packages for groups of four or more, it’s an experience that’s as affordable as it is enjoyable.

With great-value golf and catering packages for groups of four or more, it’s an experience that’s as affordable as it is enjoyable.

With great-value golf and catering packages for groups of four or more, it’s an experience that’s as affordable as it is enjoyable.

Book your winter tee time today and discover why winter golf at Ilkley is truly unforgettable.

Book your winter tee time today and discover why winter golf at Ilkley is truly unforgettable.

Book your winter tee time today and discover why winter golf at Ilkley is truly unforgettable.

Book your winter tee time today and discover why winter golf at Ilkley is truly unforgettable.

Book your winter tee time today and discover why winter golf at Ilkley is truly unforgettable.

For our excellent value winter packages, please call 01943 600214, scan the QR code, visit our website or email: office@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk ilkleygolfclub.co.uk

For our excellent value winter packages, please call 01943 600214, scan the QR code, visit our website or email: office@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk ilkleygolfclub.co.uk

For our excellent value winter packages, please call 01943 600214, scan the QR code, visit our website or email: office@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk ilkleygolfclub.co.uk

For our excellent value winter packages, please call 01943 600214, scan the QR code, visit our website or email: office@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk ilkleygolfclub.co.uk

For our excellent value winter packages, please call 01943 600214, scan the QR code, visit our website or email: office@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk ilkleygolfclub.co.uk

FROST, FENCES & PHOTO FINISHES

From Catterick to Wetherby Yorkshire’s winter racecourses offer sharp air, hot pies and jump racing drama. Wrap up, grab a racecard and join the roar

Winter racing in Yorkshire is all about contrast. Your breath hangs in the air yet the stands feel alive. Fingers go numb but the thrill of a close finish cuts straight through the chill. Between December and the end of February the action shifts from summer flat cards to serious jumping and three

racecourses really come into their own: Doncaster, Wetherby and Catterick.

For many the season starts on Boxing Day at Wetherby. The William Hill Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase is the centrepiece, a Premier Handicap over about three miles with nineteen fences to jump and a loyal following of hardened racegoers. Families roll up still

half full of leftovers. Tweed caps and novelty Christmas jumpers share space in the bars. By the time the field lines up for the Meyrick just after lunch the noise from the stands could probably be heard back on the A1.

Further into January attention swings to Doncaster and the Great Yorkshire Chase, a three mile Premier Handicap that has long been one of the north’s key winter tests and was known for years as the Sky Bet Chase. It usually lands in the last weekend of the month, right when people most need a reason to get out of the house. The race draws smart staying chasers

from across Britain and the buzz in the ring feels bigger than the time of year would suggest.

Catterick has its own winter party piece. Early January brings the North Yorkshire Grand National, Yorkshire’s longest race and the showpiece of the track’s season. It is run over about three miles six furlongs and asks horses to jump twenty four fences across two and a half circuits. Watching them grind up the home straight for the third time on testing ground is enough to make you grateful you chose the spectator’s life. You do not have to be a racing die-hard to enjoy any of this.

on course bookmakers are used to beginners. Ask what an each way bet is and you will usually get a friendly answer along with your ticket.

The atmosphere at these winter fixtures has a cosy side. Bars and betting halls hum with conversations about form and going. At Doncaster on Great Yorkshire Chase day you will hear every possible theory about which horse will stay the trip best. At Wetherby the talk is often about whether Rowland Meyrick winners might turn up at Aintree in April. Catterick regulars know which mud lovers come alive in the North Yorkshire Grand National and they are not shy about sharing opinions.

even on a straightforward card there is plenty to look at between races as horses come and go, jockeys leg up and grooms march briskly past.

Practicalities are straightforward. All three courses sit close to main roads with decent parking and good links to nearby train stations. Websites for Doncaster, Wetherby and Catterick carry up to date fixture lists with advance tickets and occasional winter offers, including promotions around the Great Yorkshire Chase, the Rowland Meyrick and the North Yorkshire Grand National. Pick a date, book ahead, then keep one eye on the forecast.

CROWDS ARE OFTEN A LITTLE LIGHTER THAN IN SUMMER SO CHILDREN CAN GET CLOSE TO THE HORSES IN THE PARADE RING AND FEEL THE THUD OF HOOVES FROM THE RAIL

Food matters more when the temperatures dip. The smell of chips and gravy drifts across the yards at Catterick. At Wetherby you can warm up with a pie and a pint between races. Doncaster’s winter cards are perfect for long lunches in the stands followed by a dash back to the rail for the finish. This is comfort eating territory, not salad season.

A winter race day is simpler than it sounds. Start with layers. Thermal top, warm jumper and a coat that laughs at sideways rain. Comfortable boots are more important than anything fashionable. Gloves are essential. Seasoned locals slip a pair of handwarmers into their pockets and never mention it.

Once you are through the turnstiles the rhythm of the afternoon is easy to fall into. Each race gives you half an hour or so to study the racecard, wander to the parade ring, place a small bet and find your spot near the rails. Programmes at all three tracks explain the basics and

Style in winter is its own kind of fun. Yorkshire courses do not expect catwalk chic in January. You will see smart coats and the odd fur-trimmed hat but you will also see plenty of bobble hats and waterproofs. Tweed looks right at home. A colourful scarf or a good pair of sunglasses for low winter sun does more to lift an outfit than any fragile shoes ever could.

For families these meetings can be a handy way to break up the dark months. Crowds are often a little lighter than in summer so children can get close to the horses in the parade ring and feel the thud of hooves from the rail. Some fixtures add extra entertainment but

If the ground turns heavy or frost threatens, meetings can shift or fall to inspections yet that uncertainty is part of the winter mood. When the all clear finally arrives and the first field splashes over an early fence you feel as if the whole day has been snatched back from the weather. By the time you head home from a Yorkshire race day your cheeks will be bright and your pockets full of folded betting slips. You might have backed the winner of the Great Yorkshire Chase or simply watched them slog up the straight at Catterick without a penny on. Either way you will have spent hours outside in good company with real drama to shout about. Between the beginning of December and the last days of February winter can feel long. Plugging one of those grey afternoons into a trip to Doncaster, Wetherby or Catterick changes the script. Wrap up. Pick a horse. Join the roar as they jump the last. Yorkshire’s winter racing will do the rest. n

HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS

An exhibition at The Folly in Settle celebrates three generations of artists from one Malham cottage, showcasing over a century of creativity, heritage and the Yorkshire landscape

Art by three generations of women who’ve lived and worked in the same North Yorkshire cottage is on exhibition together for the first time in 15 years.

The artistic dynasty which began with Constance Pearson (1886-1970), continued with her daughter, Philippa (1921-1999) whose only daughter, Katharine, is a full-time artist still using her grandmother’s studio at High Barn Cottage in Malham.

Their combined talents can be enjoyed in the exhibition entitled Katharine Holmes and Three Generations of Painting and Living in a Malham Cottage, which runs at The Folly in Settle until 3rd January.

“It’s fantastic that the work of these three artists is being exhibited together for the first time in 15 years and I’m pleased we have supported it with £100,000 through the Unlocking Collections strand of our National Lottery Project Grants programme,” said Pete

Massey, Arts Council England director, North.

“Women artists have often been overlooked in the past so to see paintings and other creative work spanning two centuries and with such an intriguing family link is a rare opportunity which I’m sure will be enjoyed by visitors to The Folly.”

The youngest of the three women, Katharine, has travelled and exhibited widely and been awarded residencies or painted in Japan, Greece, Kenya, New England, Italy and throughout the British Isles.

When not working in the studio at her grandmother’s cottage where she moved in 2007, Katharine often paints and draws outside in the ever-changing weather and light of Malhamdale.

LIVING AND WORKING AT HIGH BARN COTTAGE I HAVE FELT VERY PRIVILEGED TO BE SURROUNDED BY SUCH AN INSPIRING LANDSCAPE

Some of Katharine’s new drawings produced while out walking are in this latest exhibition alongside a recently finished oil painting of Malham Cove, some recent oil paintings of the Malham limestone landscape and some older drawings.

“Living and working at High Barn Cottage I have felt very privileged to be surrounded by such an inspiring landscape,” said Katharine who has vivid memories of visiting her grandmother – Constance Pearson – there.

“She was surrounded by canvases, paintings and painting equipment. Every Saturday morning when I was very young I would join her and we would chat and I’d paint.”

This latest exhibition helps to highlight

the importance of work by female artists.

“So often women have been overshadowed by artist fathers, brothers or husbands. What I think is interesting in this story is that the women featured have found ways to pursue artistic careers,” Katharine said.

Although all students of art after school, the education of each female generation of the family was very much of its time.

Constance Pearson attended Leeds School of Art and was influenced by Art Nouveau. Craft was important to her and a brooch she made is included in the exhibition.

She was a prolific artist whose book illustrations and portraits often reflected rural life in the 1940s and 1950s. Her work regularly sold at exhibition, making a useful contribution to household finances, particularly during the war years.

SO OFTEN WOMEN HAVE BEEN OVERSHADOWED BY ARTIST FATHERS, BROTHERS OR HUSBANDS

Some of Constance’s textile collages made in the 1950s have been recently acquired by The Folly.

Constance often worked alongside her husband, Sidney – and their daughter Philippa inherited their artistic genes, becoming an occupational therapist during World War Two and passing on her art and craft skills to injured soldiers. She later taught art and English to disabled pupils, before marrying and returning home to Malhamdale.

Philippa Holmes sketched and painted as a lifelong hobby after leaving her paid work, eventually moving into her mother’s cottage as a carer following her father’s death.

It was in that cottage that she and her husband, Ted, raised their daughter Katharine who has carried on the family’s artistic tradition. n

Entry to the exhibition is free and Katharine’s work will be for sale.

The Folly, built in 1679, is the Yorkshire Dales’ only Grade I listed historic house regularly open to the public. It is home to the Museum of North Craven Life, which tells fascinating tales of the people and landscape of the local area.

The building and the neighbouring Grade II Zion Chapel, are owned and run by the North Craven Building Preservation Trust, the volunteer-led registered charity dedicated to preserving the historical, agricultural and architectural heritage of the district and sharing information via its museum service.

FINDING INSPIRATION IN NATURE

Hot on the heels of exhibiting at two prestigious London art shows, Yorkshire born and based wildlife and landscape artist Jo Garlick could be forgiven for taking a breather. Just the opposite, as Kate Bowyer discovers

It’s a crisp late autumn morning as I arrive in the tiny village of Thirn, in the rolling Dales between Middleham and Masham, to find Jo busy with new work in progress, a diary of New Year workshops to plan and a fresh batch of charity Christmas cards to post. Her tiny studio, tucked just across the road from her family home, is light, inviting and full of character, just like her wildlife and landscape art. “It used to be a holiday cottage,”

explains Jo, who has clearly not wasted an inch of space. “Where I paint was the bedroom, the sitting room is now my little gallery, the built-in wardrobe is excellent storage – although cardboard packaging has overflowed into the bath!”

Working predominantly in soft pastels, Jo builds texture, light and movement in rich layers of colour. Her work ranges from finely observed studies of owls, hares and

deer to more expressive landscapes, often capturing fleeting shifts of atmosphere, golden-hour sun on a riverbank, or the flutter of wings across a twilight sky.

NATURE IS EVER-CHANGING. EVEN IF YOU’RE OUT IN THE GARDEN, OR WALKING FAMILIAR FOOTPATHS WITH THE DOGS, YOU NOTICE DIFFERENT THINGS

“I’m drawn to local landscapes and their wildlife, particularly the rivers, cliffs and woodland near where I live,” she nods, offering me a mug. “Treading lightly and being alert

to the natural world is where the spark begins. I get out whenever I can – sometimes it might be the outline of a sketch, which I complete in the studio, other pieces seem to appear fully formed.

“Nature is ever-changing. Even if you’re out in the garden, or walking familiar footpaths with the dogs, you notice different things. A glimpse of a barn owl can completely change your day.”

Jo recently returned from London, where her fluting chiffchaff picture was selected for the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition at the Mall Galleries, a major event in the wildlife art calendar. A second trip to the capital followed quickly after, this time with four more pieces accepted for the Society of Wildlife Artists’ Natural Eye exhibition, also at the Mall.

“To be chosen for both was a big deal. I was thrilled,” she admits, showing me the pictures – rocky North Sea coast and cliffs with soaring gannets above crashing waves, iconic puffins and a silently hunting barn owl. “Most of the time I’m tucked away up here in North Yorkshire, so it was a lovely opportunity to meet and talk with fellow wildlife artists about the locations that inspire their work.”

But Jo is quick to ground her success in the rhythms of her local life. Most of her work is sold through seasonal exhibitions, art events and from her own studio, open to visitors by appointment. She’s also a regular at Yorkshire events like the Designer

Makers’ Market and RHS Harlow Carr’s Bath House exhibition space – and she has just contributed to the north’s largest contemporary art exhibition, The Big Art Show at Queen Mary’s School near Topcliffe, which raises vital funds for Yorkshire Children’s Charity.

THERE’S SOMETHING LOVELY ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE EXPRESS THEIR CREATIVITY

Before life as a full-time artist, Jo worked as a secondary school art teacher – and she continues to teach adult workshops, from her studio, at art groups and through creative organisation Artison, based near Masham.

“There’s something lovely about helping people express their creativity,” she says. “Some are lifelong artists, some haven’t picked up a pencil in years and then suddenly they realise they can do it. That moment never gets old.”

Juggling family life – including two primary-age children and three dogs – brings challenges, but also the flexibility to play a key role on the steering group of North Yorkshire Open Studios, where artists across the region open their doors to the public each June.

“The North has a strong creative community,” she adds. “But these things don’t run themselves. If you want something to thrive, sometimes you have to roll your sleeves up and play your part.”

With the days growing colder, Jo’s busy sending out her annual Christmas card collection, which donates a portion of profits to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. “It’s scary how quickly it comes round,” she says.

“I remember designing this year’s cards as the sun blazed down!”

As we say goodbye, Jo is already back at her easel. In a world that often rushes past us, her work reminds us to pause and see what surrounds us – the flutter of a feather, the glitter of light on water, the soft hush of colour as the seasons turn. n

jogarlick.co.uk

Jo Garlick Artist

Jo Garlick

With deep roots in Yorkshire and a passion for bringing people together, Sarah has helped shape the communities her company creates and the experience its homeowners cherish. Warm, genuine and proudly local, she shares her love for the Dales as well as a few Yorkshire-themed favourites.

How long have you worked in the family business and what do you love most about it? Twenty-three years and I can honestly say I still love what I do. For me, it’s all about creating places people are proud to call home. Meeting our new homeowners, watching

MY DALES…

A familiar face to many homeowners, Sarah Barraclough has been an integral part of family business Skipton Properties (newly rebranded as Verity & Co Homes) for over two decades

them settle in and seeing each family make their home their own is incredibly rewarding. It feels special to play a small part in the start of their new chapter.

What do you enjoy most about the Dales and the surrounding area?

The views are spectacular and the walks never disappoint, but it’s the people that make it truly special. There’s a warmth and friendliness here that makes you feel instantly at home – we really are a welcoming bunch!

Your favourite Dales location?

Malham Cove has to be up there. It’s such an iconic Yorkshire spot and no matter how many times you visit, it still takes your breath away.

What’s your favourite Dales walk or view?

Ingleton Falls is a lovely walk. There’s something calming about being near water. I could happily watch the waves for hours, so although the sea will always win for me, this comes a very close second!

Where do you most like to eat locally?

In Haworth, The Hawthorn and The Old Post Office are firm favourites for a cosy meal with great service. And if I’m in Saltaire, The Pepper Mill is always a brilliant choice, it never disappoints.

What’s your favourite time of year in the Dales? It might sound cheesy, but I genuinely love every season here. From the first snowdrops and spring air to the rich autumn colours that transform the landscape, each season brings its own kind of magic.

Which Yorkshire writer, artist or sportsperson do you admire the most?

David Hockney. His creativity, unique perspective and the joy and colour he brings to his work inspire so many and I love how proudly he celebrates Yorkshire in his art.

Favourite Sunday roast?

I’m a sucker for a good roast – and there are so many great ones locally that I can’t possibly pick just one! Yorkshire puddings, gravy and all the trimmings – I’d happily say “yes” to all of them.

Five people you would invite to a Yorkshire dinner party?

Freddie Flintoff, Jeremy Clarkson, Ed Sheeran, Leigh Francis (aka Keith Lemon) and Michael Palin – what a night that would be! A mix of humour, music, good stories and a proper Yorkshire edge.

Your favourite most inspiring quote or advice?

“You don’t ask, you don’t get.” It’s simple, but it’s stuck with me. Sometimes you just have to be brave enough to put yourself out there –you never know where it might lead. n