Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // April 2026
ISSUE 153 |APRIL 2026
Meet the Uppingham Motor Company Travel: Lovely Lincoln Spring products galore Plants that earn their place: this month it’s sun loving ones Nettles aren’t nasty. Medical herbalist Jody Knapp explains FREE!
Grab yourself a bargain whilst sourcing vintage homeware and antiques
Editor and Publisher Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com
Deputy editor Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com
Art editor Matt Tarrant
Contributors
Will Hetherington, Jeremy Smithson-Beswick,
Advertisement Sales Director Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com
Advertisement Sales Emily Stillman
Production assistant Gary Curtis
Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com
Front cover credit @_irisandmabel_
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ISSN 2059-8513
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EDITOR’S LETTER
‘We are so lucky to be living here, surrounded by beautiful towns and villages with lots of friendly people and lovely open countryside which, yes, we often take for granted.’
Most of us probably bumble along not noticing much around us and taking things for granted; pushing on, head down and getting on with life, however humdrum it may seem. And then suddenly something happens which makes us sit up and take notice and - hopefully - be thankful for what we’ve got, and in many cases, thankful for where we live. We are so lucky to be living here, surrounded by beautiful towns and villages with lots of friendly people and lovely open countryside which, yes, we often take for granted. It used to amuse me that so many youngsters would vow to ‘get out of Stamford and head for the high life’ and within a few years be back again. You could almost set your watch by it.
t t en e all need to see ot er sides of life before finally realising t at t e one we have, and the surroundings we live in are where we want to be, and aren’t we lucky.
I think that so often when I’m out and about interviewing people, visiting businesses, even just out with the dog or watching the robins on my bird table (as I am doing now). In fact, I am now quite confused as I have just seen a male robin feed anot er ad lt male robin s t is a late edgling from last year f so he needs to start feeding his father as he’s larger than him!
Anyway, I digress. This month, now we are heading further into spring thoughts turn to decorating, spring cleaning and décor. Lucy from Iris and abel tal s to s abo t o to style yo r o se and ere to find intage homeware, upcycled goods and antiques and what to expect at the markets; remember to barter and cash is king. I love her mantra as I much prefer to buy pre-loved as it adds so much character and is usually of much better quality t an ne and of co rse yo are eeping somet ing o t of landfill and doing your bit for sustainability.
We’ve got lots more in the magazine as well this month including learning all about the Uppingham Motor Company, a visit to Lincoln, fabulous spring products from our local retailers and so much more including a walk from ill ic e didn t finis and en yo read y o can blame im
Enjoy the issue,
Mary - Editor
For full terms & conditions please visit www.ernies.co.uk/terms-conditions/
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ISSUE 153 /APRIL 2026
ACTIVE LIFE
22 SPRING PRODUCTS
We’ve got lots of local recommendations
24 TRAVEL
Lincoln is a must to visit
26 SEARCHING FOR TREASURES
Lucy from Iris and Mabel tells s o to fi nd intage homeware and antique bargains
35 FAMILY FRIENDLY MOTORS
Kate meets the owners of Uppingham Motor Company who have built a thriving business in just four years
38 WILL’S WALKS
Will walks from Uppingham to Stamford but gets distracted before the end, and he has a perfectly good reason
ACTIVE KIDS
43 SCHOOLS NEWS
ACTIVE BODY
49 KEEP CALM
Hannah Melville suggests ways to deal with you and your child’s anxiety
51 NETTLES AREN’T NASTY
Medical herbalist Jody Knapp
tal s abo t t e benefits of nettles
ACTIVE SPORT
56 THE ROUNDUP
Jeremy updates us on local sport
ActiveLife
Where and how to bag a vintage homeware bargain. Spring products, we’ve got lots of local recommendations. Uppingham Motor Company; family friendly motors. This month Will didn’t quite fi nish his walk, and we can fully understand why.
Intentionally different
Clair Lever, owner of Clair Rose Bridal tells us about her vision for her business. ‘When I created the boutique I always knew I wanted it to be a one-woman, one-bride-at-a-time space, somewhere calm, personal and truly special. From the moment you walk through the door the boutique is yours. No competing appointments, no distractions, just a beautiful environment.
‘Running the boutique myself allows me to connect with every bride who visits. I want to hear your story, understand your vision and help you discover how you want to feel when you walk down the aisle. Every appointment is designed to be relaxed, personal and completely tailored to you.’
Clair Rose Bridal was also created to be a welcoming space for every bride with a variety of gowns available, regardless of shape or size. The boutique offers both made-to-order dresses and off t e peg go ns gi ing e ibility for different styles timelines and budgets.
Many of the gowns can be altered, allowing brides to personalise details and truly make their dress their own. You will also find a caref lly c rated selection of bridal accessories and special bridal gifts to complete your look.
Located at The Bell Centre in Melton Mowbray, the boutique also benefits from con enient par ing rig t o tside ma ing isits easy and stress-free.
Most importantly, Clair Rose Bridal is a space designed to slow everything down, a place to breathe, celebrate, sip champagne, in a moment that feels entirely yours. clairrosebridal.co.uk
Next Door
They’re busy at Hoppers of Bourne with lots going on. First of all, it’s their centenary year so there will be plenty of celebrations throughout the year at both branches in Grantham and Bourne. But they aren’t sitting on their laurels either as they have recently expanded at their Bourne branch opening ‘Next Door’ which literally is, next door.
It’s an extra space to the shop which allows for privacy. This is perfect for men o ant to discreetly find an engagement ring because as owner Fiona Hopper says, ‘everyone knows everyone in a small town and you don’t always necessarily want to be seen in a jewellers.’ This space allows you time to discuss what you want, be that a purchase, a bespoke design or a remodel and gives you time and privacy to look at pieces as well.
Next Door is obviously not just for would-be bridegrooms; couples come and choose their wedding rings here and it’s where you can come and discuss any jewellery and want some privacy. It’s also popular with friends, bridesmaids, mothers and daughters who are all embracing the permanent jewellery chains, where you have a simple chain soldered on to represent eternity. Hoppers stock the Perma Jewel brand and will solder your bracelet on for you.
Hoppers are renowned for delivering bespoke designs and repurposing pieces as well as selling beautiful jewellery. And sometimes you don’t want to be displaying the contents of your jewellery box in a public space. This is why Next Door is so popular and the perfect space to discuss jewellery wishes with an experienced, knowledgeable jeweller; it is literally in current owner Fiona’s genes.
hoppersjewellers.co.uk
Image: Emma Wenham Photography
Deepings Raft Race 2026 theme announced
The organisers of the Deepings Raft Race are delighted to reveal that the 2026 theme will be Marvellous Musicals. The Raft Race will take place on Sunday 2 August promising a showstopping day of colour, creativity and entertainment on and off the water.
The Deepings Raft Race is one of the area’s most anticipated annual events drawing thousands of spectators and raising vital funds for local causes. The event would not be possible without the generous backing of its sponsors whose continued support ensures the race can take place each year.
There are still sponsorship packages available for 2026. Sponsoring the Deepings Raft Race offers fantastic exposure within the local community, both on race day and in the months leading up to the event through social media promotion and print media coverage. Businesses interested in becoming part of this community event are encouraged to get in touch.
deepingsraftrace.co.uk
Good days ahead
‘The Deepings Raft Race is one of the area’s most anticipated annual events drawing thousands of spectators and raising vital funds for local causes.’
Good Hair Days is celebrating 24 years in their Uppingham salon and 10 years in their Stamford one. And owner Nikki Thorpe has clocked up 40 years’ experience as a hairdresser this year as well.
She says: ‘I’ve had a fun time with a lot of turbulence along the way, incl ding getting pregnant si mont s after opening my first salon e had a broken thumb, a broken ankle, deteriorating discs in my back, broken ribs, a new hip and am expecting another hip operation soon! Hairdressing is a very physical job but I love what I do.’
Nikki is taking on an excellent senior stylist to help her grow the Stamford salon. Ozzy is a Turkish born hairdresser with great talent. He used to own his own salon in Turkey but left because of political reasons along with his wife who is a very experienced make-up artist. ‘We have named his long hair curly blow dry “the Ozzy blow dry” and we’re both excited about him growing his clientele in the business.’
Tara, the current manager in Stamford, will continue with her clients who have been so loyal to her over the past six years. She is an incredibly good hairdresser and experienced in all aspects of hairdressing, especially colouring including hair extensions.
Nikki will continue to run the Uppingham salon with her daughter Grace who has become an exceptional colour artist. All the stylists enjoy going out as a team to do hair and make up for weddings. There are also two new members on the team, Jodie and Jack, who are completing their level three salon experience with Nikki.
‘It’s been tough at times and more so in recent years. We’ve had to tighten our belts to cover rising costs such as national insurance increases, landlord’s electrical testing, PAT testing, music licences, things that people don’t consider when they come and have a haircut. But we’ve made it this far and we shall continue to grow and educate the younger generation who are coming through. Helping others to achieve their dreams; that’s the way forward for 2026.’
goodhairdayseveryday.co.uk
South-facing garden and terrace Private reading room Idyllic village location Bulwick, Northamptonshire
Eastwell Crossroads has just gained a delicious new landmark it t e opening of orge caf and deli a refined yet elcoming delicatessen and caf created by professional c ef Jorge. With a career spent working at the highest levels of the c linary orld orge no brings is e pertise passion and global e perience to t is e citing ne local ent re e deli itself is a treas re tro e of a o r combining t e ery best local prod ce it caref lly so rced specialities from around the world. From artisan ingredients and gourmet treats to bea tif lly c rated deli essentials e ery s elf re ects ality craftsmans ip and c linary c riosity longside t e deli t e caf offers a arm and rela ed space for coffee and ca e leis rely l nc es and cas al meet ps t it doesn’t stop there. Jorge Café and Deli is also set to become a vibrant social hub hosting private events, dining nights, celebrations, parties and more, making it a versatile venue for bot e eryday moments and special occasions erfectly sit ated at ast ell crossroads t e caf and deli add ne energy to an already distincti e location it its blend of professional c linary e cellence global inspiration and local eart orge af and eli is definitely one to isit jorgedeli.co.uk
Ninetieth celebrations
eterboro g ido t rns t is yearand t ebirt daycelebrations a ebeen gi en a real boostwith the news that the 2026 season will be brought forward,with the pool open for p blic se from at rday arc e season ill r n for si mont s ntil t e end of September, almost twiceas long as last yearand great ne s for t e city e m c lo ed o tdoor pool pro ides eated s imming fitness rela ationand f n across its three pools, greenspace and café. e i acity team ooperatet e ido said e start of t e ido season is al ays an e citingtime in o r calendar and t is year e are going all out withspecial events and acti ities for t e ole family to en oy e feel passionately abo t pro iding safe,fun, accessible swimming fore eryone b t also ant to s o t abo t t e ido s fantastic istory and bring t at to life ore anno ncements abo tt e e citing events we are planning throughout the season will be coming soon.’ long it t e e tended season or as begun to install new pool covers to help reduce the running costs of keeping the pools’ heated water warm.
To find out more about the Lido season and keep in touch with what’s on visit vivacity.org
Café at the King’s centre, Barleythorpe
Brad Tagg took over at the King’s café in Barleythorpe near Oakham just over a year ago and is really making his mark. Open seven days a week from 9am-4pm he serves breakfast, light (ish) lunches such as soup, toasties, baked potatoes and sandwiches as well as delicious cakes. All food is ‘proper food’ freshly prepared along with excellent coffee from Two Chimps, all at a reasonable price.
e people in t e offices already ma e good se of is caf b t because there is so much space, he has been encouraging groups to come and enjoy the atmosphere as well. We had a quick chat to the U3A scrabble group who meet every Friday (I was desperate to join them). A group meet on Wednesdays to play mahjong, there’s a rummy club, a mum group who meet up and go for a walk then have coffee, French conversation anyone, and the WI meet here too. I can see why, it’s a great spot with plenty of seating, free parking and you get to enjoy Brad’s culinary delights. Brad is happy to welcome more groups and is talking about a dads’ group at the weekends so do get in touch with him. kingcentrecafe.co.uk
Welcome to The Attic
A new space helping women in business grow together has opened in Stamford.
Entrepreneur and social media strategist Jess Monro, known locally as The Little Business Fairy, has launched The Attic, a co-working and content creation space designed to support female business owners.
Located above Elevate Salon on Cheyne Lane, The Attic was created after Jess saw how many women were trying to build businesses alone working from kitchen tables, spare rooms and coffee shops.
‘I wanted to create a space where women in business could come together, feel supported and actually enjoy working on their businesses,’ Jess explains. ‘Running a business can feel lonely at times, and I truly believe things grow faster when we grow together.’
Jess already runs the popular Fierce Women networking events across Stamford, Bourne, Grantham, Peterborough, Rutland and Leicestershire, bringing hundreds of women together each month. The Attic is a natural extension of that community, offering a physical space where ideas, collaboration and creativity can o ris
The space is designed for co-working, content creation, planning sessions and small group workshops, accommodating up to eight women at a time in a relaxed and inspiring setting.
True to Jess’s ethos of making support accessible, The Attic has been priced so that any woman building a business can use it.
Co-working starts from £8 per hour, with half-day and full-day options available, while the entire space can be privately hired for meetings, group content days or workshops from £20 per hour.
Hire of the space includes fast WiFi, access to content creation props and equipment, and a help-yourself station stocked with teas, coffees, biscuits and sweets.
For Jess, the goal is simple. ‘I want The Attic to be a place where women walk in feeling supported and leave feeling braver about what they’re building.’
@theatticinstamford
TheDetails
tamf m ord An adaptable space fo f r ev events, wo w rkshops, solo wo w rking, co-wo w rking and content creation fo f r wo w men in
Anadaptablespace forevents, workshops,solo working, co-workingand contentcreation forwomenin business
1 Tolethorpe 2026 season starts on June 10 and runs through until August 29 and this year there will be matinees on Sundays. You can see Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, Treasure Island, One man, two guvnors and Animal Farm. For more details and to book visit tolethorpe.co.uk
2
Lavinia Brown is holding a women’s restorative retreat in Rutland on May 8-10. Enjoy a restorative weekend in a rural sanctuary just outside Oakham. Take this opportunity to slow down and pause, to embark on a journey that will be soft, nurturing and energising as you lean in to being seen for who you truly are. laviniabrown.com/may-retreat-2026
3
Brazenose violins are hosting chamber concerts at St Martin’s church in Stamford in May, July and September. For more information and to book tickets visit brazenoseviolins.co.uk
4
The Deepings literary festival returns this year from April 29-May 3 with a programme packed full of authors and publishing experts sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for reading and writing. There is lots going on with talks from many well known authors. To book tickets and fi nd o t more isit deepingsliteraryfesti al co.uk
5
This spring Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery presents Gleanings: The art of the past, a free exhibition created and curated by artist Rose Ferraby. The exhibition is free to visit and runs until May 30. Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am - 4pm.
6
On the evening of April 25 the Harborough Singers will be appearing at the Methodist church in Market Harborough to perform a concert inspired by the phrase In the Evening Light. The concert begins at 7.30 and tickets are £15. harboroughsingers.com
7
On April 26 enjoy gardens open under the NGS scheme at Westbrooke House in Market Harborough, a six acre garden it a magnificent collection of o er tulips.
8
tland atermill are osting a fitness and wellness retreat on April 26. The e ent ill bring toget er a range of fitness and wellbeing activities including a run club, local cycling community, yoga, padel and ilates ere ill be fitness c allenges and access to the wellness area. There will also be a local nutritionist, massage therapists and wellness specialists involved. rutlandwatermill.co.uk
Jorge’s blood orange and almond cake with marmalade glaze
Jorge from the newly opened café which runs alongside his deli at Eastwell Crossroads has kindly supplied us with this delicious recipe. If you like the sound of this do pop to his caf and deli ere yo ill find delicio s cakes like this one, fabulous lunches and light bites. He specialises in delicious food freshly prepared with a local and Mediterranean inspiration. And then have a wander round the deli too.
Ingredients
g plain o r
• 1tsp baking powder
• 230g caster sugar
• 255g ground almonds
• 200ml JORGE Blood Orange Olive Oil
• 1 blood orange, zest of
• 4 eggs
For the glaze
• 85ml blood/blush orange juice
• 65g soft brown sugar
• 1tbsp blood orange marmalade
• sliced almonds, toasted
Method
• Grease a 20cm round cake tin and preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
• Sift the flour, baking powder and sugar into a large bowl then stir in the ground almonds.
• In a separate bowl, mix the oil together with the orange zest. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well each time.
• Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a metal spoon until everything is just combined.
• Transfer the batter to the prepared tin and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
• While the cake is baking, prepare the orange syrup. Bring the orange juice and brown sugarto the boil in a small saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat and allow the syrup to cool.
• When the cake comes out of the oven, pierce it all over with a skewer right down to the base. Slowly spoon the cooled syrup over the warm cake so it soaks in.
• Leave the cake in the tin until completely cooled. To finish, brush the top with a little warmed marmalade and scatter over some toasted flaked almonds before serving
jorgedeli.co.uk
Image: David Griffen Photography
Getting your feet wet
Rowan Griffiths tells us more about the bulrush
Next to my brother’s house is a natural spring fed pond, now sadly overgrown. Despite its rewilded state the pond still retains an impressive stand of bulrushes, also known as reedmace. They will be a familiar sight to most, being a tall semiaquatic plant with a brown cigar shaped o er ead on top of a long spi e of a stem emerging from the water. They are widespread throughout lowland England and Wales, thriving in shallow ponds or slow-moving water.
The bulrush is a perennial plant which grows up to 2.5m tall. The leaves are long, around 12mm wide and a grey green colour, rather resembling a leek. The o ering spi e is composed of ery tiny petal less o ers n t e early s mmer t e male parts of t e o er at t e top of t e spike swell to produce a large amount of bright yellow pollen that falls and fertilises t e female o ers belo nce fertilised t e o er ead t rns c ocolate brown. The seeds produced are microscopic and are carried away on the ind en t e o er ead disintegrates in the autumn.
Reedmace is also edible and this is ere yo get yo r feet et n t e early spring when the leek-like leaf bundles are about 1m high they can be cut off (as near to the root a you can and don’t bother if the woody stem has started to form).
Trimmed and prepared in the same way as a leek they make a tasty vegetable. But be warned, like the peacock feather it was once thought that to bring bulrushes into the house also brought bad luck.
GARDENING
Plants that earn their place
Garden designer Nicola Oakey recommends sun loving plants for your garden
What a joy to feel the arrival of spring. The shift in seasons gets all gardeners itching to partake in our favourite pastime plant s opping r local garden centres are st ffing t eir s el es it temptations that we can’t resist. The amount of choice can be overwhelming and we don’t want to waste our money on the wrong choices. We want hardworking plants that o er ell come bac e ery year and aren t too demanding.
f yo e got a s nny spot in t e garden that needs a plant that earns its place, here are a fe s ggestions come bac to t ese plants time and time again when designing gardens…
Verbena bonariensis (Purpletop Vervain)
Tall, slender stems are topped with clusters of small p rple o ers from ne to ctober They add fantastic height to borders but still feel airy and informal. While some perennial plants can take a year or two to really get going verbenas usually add impact from the first year especially if t ey are planted in spring. They prefer to grow in soil that is free draining t can be a s ort li ed perennial but they will happily self-seed to provide plenty of new plants. Height 1.5-2m x spread 45cm.
Stachys byzantina 'Big Ears' (Lamb’s Ears)
Stachys is a robust plant grown for its e ergreen foliage as m c as for t e o ers
The silvery leaves have a tactile, velvety texture giving them its common name, lamb’s ears. The hairy leaves help stop moisture evaporation and the silvery colour re ects t e s n so t ey are ery dro g t
tolerant once establis ed n ne t e plant sends up spikes of small pinkish-purple o ers t at bloom into t e a t mn tac ys looks great at the front of a well-drained border where the foliage can be seen year-round. Height 45cm x spread 60cm.
Geum ‘Mai Tai’ (Avens)
Flowering from late spring into summer, geums are perfect perennials for the front of a border ere t eir eye catc ing o er can be admired. ‘Mai Tai’ has pretty apricotcolo red o ers it s o y r f ed petals There are plenty of other colours available, from t e brig t crimson of rs rads a to the aptly named ‘Totally Tangerine.’ The scalloped leaves make a neat mound at the base of the plant. They are happy growing in a partially shaded position as well as sun and prefer soil that drains well, but doesn’t dry out completely. Height 40cm x spread 45cm.
Hylotelephium 'Herbstfreude' (Sedum / Stonecrop)
n late s mmer en some plants can be looking a bit tired, the sedum is just beginning to o ris e at topped o er eads are a magnet for pollinating insects into the autumn. ‘Herbstfreude’ has pale pin o ers t at become more intensely pin as t ey age e es y grey green foliage loo s attracti e too nce it s finis ed o ering t e seed eads can be left in t e garden over winter. They add valuable structure and look magical covered in frost. t er great arieties incl de ite o ered ‘Stardust’ and ‘Purple Emperor’ with its dark maroon foliage. Height 60cm x spread 60cm. e t mont ll s are my fa o rite plants for shady situations.
nicolaoakey.com
Krafted Couch
A fast wireless device charger designed to live on your sofa arm right where you need it. Forget juggling cables, you simply drop your phone on the slim charging pad and relax. Available in deep blue, matcha and latte.
Price: £39.99 from kraftedtech.com
From shoes to stoves to smart irons
We’ve got the lot this Spring
Hexagonal pen pots
Made from card and decorated in either Bloomsbury inspired or marbled papers, these would make a lovely gift. Ideal for a desk or useful to have in your kitchen. Height 10cm.
Price: £24 from iris-and-mabel.com
Charnwood Aire 700 Intelligent
This next generation woodburning stove gives reduced fuel use, lower emissions and a clear ie of t e ames by constantly monitoring t e fire and ad sting air o for t e cleanest most efficient b rn possible Available in three sizes, it’s perfect for any home.
Price: £2,695.00 inc VAT from colesforfires.com
Patagonia retro pile blue sage vest
arm easy earing eece full-zip vest built of recycled polyester double-sided shearling.
Price: £109.99 from tallingtonlakesproshop.com
Handknotted SW Persian Qashqai
as ai are t e largest still migrating tribe left in ran based in t e agros mo ntains e r g is f ll of stylised birds animals and o ers irca s cm cm
Price: £1950 from therugstudio.co.uk
BIOM 720 GTX
eat ring degree air o breat able tec nology and ncore tec nology for s perior c s ioning and e ibility t is ersatile snea er eeps yo dry comfortable and ready for any ad ent re t also feat res a d rable r bber o tside ic ens res grip for any terrain
Price: £170 from gb.ecco.com
Cycle helmets
ide range in stoc incl ding ali a er and ford designs n ario sdesigns and colo rs it somet ing to s it e eryone ali elmets a e t e ad antage of free lifetime cras replacement
Price: From £19.99 from oakhamcyclecentre.co.uk
Oliso smart iron
t raises itself from t e ironing board as soon as yo r and lea es t e andle and lo ers again as soon as t e andle is to c ed so t ere s nodanger of scorc ing fabric t as all t e feat res of a top end steamiron and is decorated it a affe assett design as ell
Price: £89.50 to order from thestamfordfabriccompany.com
Royce Cube bioclimatic pergola
or refined o tdoor li ing ere comfort meets style t is metre pergola comes it lig ting controllable eat er resistant roof lo res optional p ll do n te tilene screens fi ed or ad stable side lo res or sliding glass doors
Price: Starting from £2459 from ernies.co.uk
ere a o rs of ort frica and t e iddle ast meet t is as become a staple at orge s eli
Price: £4.95-6.95 from jorgedeli.co.uk
Lincoln, a fascinating city
A blend of history, stunning architecture, a lively social scene and not far away. Lincoln is well worth a visit
Te city of incoln is st o er an o r s dri e p t e from tamford ma ing it a perfect c oice for a day trip or a s ort brea nd en yo get t ere yo ll find an impressi e got ic cat edral an istoric castle a copy of t e agna arta yes really and fab lo s s opping it modern retailers in t e indoor aterside s opping centre and more traditional independent s ops along t e cobbled teep ill and ailgate
e first place to start is t e cat edral t e most iconic landmar of t e city illiam t e on eror commissioned t e first is op of incoln to b ild a cat edral and it as
consecrated in fter being de asted by an eart a e and fire it as reb ilt in t e got ic style it intricate car ings and stained glass indo s described in ictorian times as t e finest in t e ingdom n t e original central to er as replaced it a to er and a spire ic made it t e tallest b ilding in t e orld ntil en t e spire collapsed in a storm oo o t for t e na g ty incoln mp o erloo ing t e ngel oir a reminder of o good tri mp s o er e il isit t e edie al and ren libraries ic o se rare man scripts and early printed material incl ding boo s ic ere printed before nd do
make sure you book onto a guided tour –there are many to choose from including oor roof and to er to rs ere s also a symbolism to r one concentrating on t e stained glass indo s and a fascinating one ic foc ses on istoric graffiti
Views of the city
e t cross ailgate and al nder t e e port rc into t e gro nds of incoln astle ic are free to enter e omans c ose t is site to b ild a legionary fortress nd in t e t cent ry illiam t e Conqueror ordered a castle to be built using t e remaining roman stone alls a e s re yo ma e time for t e edie al all al ic is a t ird of a mile long and gi es yo an incredible ie across t e city and s rro nding co ntryside o ll come across d ngeons gra eyards and to ers and from t e east all battlements yo ll catc t e best ie of t e cat edral t e st nning est ront
ost e citing of all yo can isit e a id oss agna arta a lt sponsored by a id oss from e ill olt near pping am ere yo ll see one of only fo r s r i ing agna arta man scripts in ngland from detailing t e red ction of
'In the grounds of the castle is The Crown Court which is still in use today and you can also visit the Victorian debtor’s prison which was used until 1878.'
power of the king and upholding the rights of the individual, widely regarded as the foundation of democracy in England. One of only two surviving 1217 Charters of the Forest giving rights to people living in royal forests is also on permanent loan from Lincoln Cathedral. Both are carefully preserved underground and you can learn all about them in the cinema room. Do check if the charters are on display before you go as sometimes they are removed from public view.
Prison life
In the grounds of the castle is The Crown Court which is still in use today and you can also visit the Victorian debtor’s prison which as sed ntil ere are t ree oors of restored prison cells, both male and female, which were run in line with the separate penal justice system. This meant each prisoner li ed in solitary confinement and wouldn’t see another prisoner the entire time they were there, including in the rather eerie chapel on Sundays.
Once you’ve seen enough Medieval, Roman and Victorian architecture, walk down Steep Hill – the clue is in the name, there are handrails in places – for a fabulous
range of independent shops, boutiques and caf s lig tly f rt er afield rayford Waterfront is renowned for its vibrant café culture.
The Museum of Lincolnshire Life gives an in depth look at life and events in the county since 1750 with nearly 250,000 objects to look at. And on the outskirts of the city the International Bomber Command Centre mar s t e sacrifice of orld ar ser ice personnel who lost their lives. The view through the 31 metre spire looks directly towards the cathedral, the same view which would have shown the men in Bomber Command they were almost home.
The Lincoln Festival of History takes place for the third year running from 2-4 May in sites across the city celebrating key moments in Lincoln’s past.
To make life more accessible, there’s a handy park and ride scheme situated at Waitrose car park in the north of the city with easy access to the city centre shops and the cathedral. Also, a hop on, hop off sightseeing tour bus with experienced guides bring the various sites of interest to life.
visitlincoln.com
Searching for treasures
Where, and how do you source antiques and vintage homeware?
Lucy Alcorn from Iris and Mabel gives us lots of advice and tips
was delighted to be asked to write this article about sourcing antiques and vintage homeware. I will include a list of where to buy them, what to look out for and how you can style and incorporate antiques into your own home and interiors.
I own an antique and lifestyle brand, Iris & Mabel. We are based in a little village near the historic market town of Oundle where we keep all our stock and sell predominantly through our website. I also attend a selection of fairs, markets, pop ups and events throughout the year within the UK. I have had a stand at Burghley Horse Trials for the last two years which was an amazing opportunity and this year I hope to join the Country Living Christmas Market.
ite often find myself getting p at t e crac of da n to go and buy at an antique fair or am often rummaging through houses where people want to sell off granny’s heirlooms that have been in the attic for years, or discovering some antique treasures in an auction room. And I love it. I have a background in textiles and styling having done a textiles degree and then spent many years working in London for interior designers and furnishing and fabric
companies. I developed a good eye and really enjoy styling rooms. As well as being able to buy direct from our website we are now offering a styling and sourcing service. This could be providing a mood board for a particular room or just sourcing an item you have always longed for. Please do get in touch if this is something you may be interested in.
An interest in buying antiques, vintage and second hand has ne er been greater any people no c oose ea mar ets o er t e high street to purchase one off homeware pieces. Buying this way is ultimately the most sustainable way to shop for your home and has become so popular in recent years. Buying second hand doesn’t necessarily mean second best. If sourced well you can pick up some real gems and it’s really satisfying knowing you are getting something unique with character and history at an affordable price. Having been a long-time collector myself and now running my own antiques business I have learnt a lot of what and what not to do, where to source and what to look out for and I am very happy to share snippets of my knowledge.
-Newark international antiques fair, Nottinghamshire
-Runway Monday, Nottinghamshire
-Oundle vintage festival, Oundle
‘Check out local car boot sales, charity shops and markets and then some of these larger local venues which are usually packed full of beautiful things and bargains.’
-Lamport Hall antiques fair, Northamptonshire
-Oakham antiques fair, Oakham
-Newmarket antiques, vintage, collectors and art fair, Newmarket.
When sourcing antiques and vintage:
DO
Do: Always take cash - not all traders have a card machine and there is unlikely to be a cash point nearby.
Do: Prepare to haggle – Always be friendly and polite as this goes down better (and it can be fun). Traders are used to getting offers as long as they’re not ridiculous.
Do: Consider a trolley - I wouldn’t be without mine. You can be walking quite a long way around fairs and it saves going back and forth to the car. They pack quite easily in your boot too.
Do: Look for quality
•Antique china and glass - are there any chips or cracks? Always look at the bottom for the backstamp or manufacturer’s mark. This will give you an idea about date and pattern name.
•Furniture - look for woodworm and strength.
•Vintage art - consider buying a magnifying loop. This will tell you if it’s an original or print.
•Vintage textiles and curtains - look out for stains, sun damage and loose threads.
•Antique rugs - look at where it originates and the measurements. Odd dimensions are good as this means they are handwoven.
Do: repare to s op aro nd oo in c arity s ops ea mar ets and car boot sales. You never know what treasure you will pick up when you least expect it.
Do: Think about the overall look. Are you going for French mute tones, country house inspired or mid century vibe? Sticking to a theme helps you create a seamless interior that looks put together.
DON’T
Don’t: Expect to kit out your home all at once - interiors are better when they evolve slowly. By choosing key pieces now and then it allows you time to live in the space and work out what sits well alongside each other and your colour scheme.
Don’t: Be afraid to experiment with colour, texture and pattern - this will give you an interesting, eclectic look that will seem effortless and thought about. There is a certain charm to the ‘lived in’ look so trust the process.
Don’t: Pay too much. Think about your budget. It’s easy to get carried away and be tempted to buy everything. Don’t do this! Now I’ve given you all the dos and don’ts you need to know where to find t ese idden gems ec o t local car boot sales c arity shops and markets and then some of these larger local venues which are s ally pac ed f ll of bea tif l t ings and bargains yo ll find more details online). I’ll probably see you there!
iris-and-mabel.com
Instagram @_irisandmabel_
finished bathroom is wonderful,” Mrs Childs, Trustpilot, September 2025
Classic Antiques Fairs’ spring fair at the NEC
Feast your eyes on a ‘world of wonders’ at the Classic Antique Fairs’ spring fair this April at the NEC
or a day to remember, visit the Classic Antique Fairs’ Spring Fair at the NEC (Hall Ten) from Friday 24 April until Sunday 26 April. Classic Antique Fairs celebrates their fourth year since saving the prestigious Antique and Arts Fairs that were synonymous with the Midlands and the NEC. They now run them twice a year in April and November. Discuss your favourite things it e perts bro se and b y confident t at yo are b ying from e perts in t eir field
ibitors co er a ide range of fields incl ding art glass furniture, silver, bronzes, porcelain, pottery, jewellery, sculpture, art nouveau, art deco into 20th century modern art. There really is an exhibitor to suit every taste. It’s a great day out whether you are an experienced collector, antique enthusiast, interior designer or would like to further your interest in the arts and antique market.
The Fair offers something for everyone, a late Easter present or a piece to add to your collection as that treat you promised yourself. Museum quality pieces from the Roman period, glass from Mark J West to contemporary jewels commissioned from Scarab London. Your favourite views of Venice from Rowles Fine Art or a rustic idyll by a Birmingham artist from Cambridge Fine Art. Or perhaps a
Spring fair at the NEC
piece of Chinese or Japanese art from Donald Allison draws you. There is so much choice.
Art Deco glass and sculpture is represented by Hickmet Fine Arts who are celebrating their 90th anniversary this year and Solo Antiques, if a Lalique car mascot or sculptural dancer appeals; together with Alexanders. Garret & Hurst offers a stunning collection of 19th and 20th century sculpture. M & D Moir showcases Tiffany and Daum glass, with Glass of All Ages offering vintage Studio Glass. C & R Scattergood displays art nouveau and art deco, as does Morgan Strickland Decorative Arts.
Jewellery is well represented with Fabergé from Shapiro & Co and obert fine estate e ellery from illy ae a g an nti es and S Greenstein & Co. How about a piece of Gillian Packard from Markov or a Tiffany brooch of a rabbit eating a carrot from Plaza Jewellery? Contemporary pieces by Jensen and Lapponia can be found with Dansk Silver or Scottish and Scandinavian Designs with vintage costume jewellery from Monika Antiques. Or a gentleman’s gift of a fine atc from es etit resors or c f in s from obert Dress your table with silver from Kalms Antiques or if you need some porcelain, look no further than Bottlebrook Antiques and Dovecote Antiques. Ceramics can be found from Chester’s Farm Gallery, LaBelle Antiques, Marmaduke’s Emporium and Scottow Antiques offering a wide selection of British and European porcelain and ceramics. Everything from teacups to monumental display pieces can be found at the Fair.
For a day out with a difference, go to classicantiquefairs.co.uk for tickets, discounted parking and perhaps take a stand if you are a dealer.
Oakham in Bloom
Spring is here so it’s time to think about gardening. Mary chats to Sheila Cunningham, Chair of Oakham in Bloom
Seila and er partner te e mo ed to a am fo r years ago e ere loo ing for a mar et to n and as soon as entered t e ig treet t rned to te e and said ant to li e ere nd it s st as ell s e did as a am as got an a ard inning garden designer in t eir midst and a am in loom is certainly benefiting from it eila ad a career c ange in er t irties and ent to ortic lt ral college to do garden design and t en started or ing in t e ind stry started ta ing a great deal of interest in t e s o gardens and decided t at co ld do one so applied to t e ampton o rt lo er o organisers as really na e and didn t really no
at as doing probably s o ld a e ol nteered to elp it one before and b t got accepted at as in t e arc and ad to a e my s o garden ready for ne so it as a steep learning c r e li ed in a lo ely illage at t e time ers olt near ob rn o ere really s pporti e and elped raise f nds for me ic as fab lo s nd on a medal at t e s o ic as brilliant a am ad t o t ings ic eila lo ed an in bloom gro p and a lindy op dancing class as ell s e as sold nd eig teen mont s ago s e too o er as air of t e a am in loom gro p ey e got big plans t is year incl ding a ing a presence at bot t e tland lo er o and tland o nty o t e large border in front of t e library is going to get a ma eo er t ere s general maintenance of all t e beds aro nd t e to n for ic t ey are licensed to care for by t e co ncil and t e ro ndabo ts too is is ere t ey get t eir f nding sinesses sponsor signs on t e ro ndabo ts paying per sign for a year so do get in to c it eila if t is is somet ing yo o ld li e to do citing plans are afoot t is year as t e gro p are going to oin forces it a am c ool to or on t e ro ndabo t near t eir
playing fields on s ell oad pils are going to design a centrepiece for t e ro ndabo t and residents ill be gi en t e c ance to gi e t eir feedbac pils ill start or ing on t e pro ect in eptember it t e aim of installing it in pring e in bloom gro p normally a e or ing parties on nday mornings for abo t min tes and eila is really een for more ol nteers to oin t em saying yo o ld be so elcome e o ld lo e to see yo b t it s important to no t ere s no reg lar commitment re ired and no gardening e perience needed o do contact eila to find o t o to oin in t s t e perfect ay to get some gentle e ercise fres air and meet ne people as ell as eeping a am bea tif l
Kate meets David and Zoe Coppin, who have built up a thriving motor business in just four years
Imagine a brig t c eerf l office on t e eastern edge of pping am it one indo loo ing o t across t e road to peacef l open
fields and t e ot er o erloo ing a b sy foreco rt dd a miniat re ire aired dac s nd called ini ooper t o mec anics ard at or and a steady stream of c stomers coming t ro g t e door to c at it a id and oe oppin an e tremely friendly sband and ife team and yo a e e pping am otor ompany a b siness t at as gone from strengt to strengt in st fo r years ile as t ere t e p one barely stopped ringing as c stomers called to boo t eir cars in for ser icing and repairs or to en ire abo t replacements t ic ly became clear t at people are ery appy it t e ser ice t ey recei e
rom t e ery beginning t e aim as to r n an onest gen ine and tr st ort y garage offering car sales ser icing repairs and s a id and oe also anted to become part of t e fabric of pping am a small close nit mar et to n pro iding an
impeccable ser ice to local residents and b sinesses dging by t e many friends ips t ey a e made t ro g t e b siness it s safe to say t ey e ac ie ed e actly t at
Used car sales
a id began or ing in t e motor trade t enty years ago initially on t e sales oor at ars alls otor ro p en it as still a m c smaller family r n company er time e or ed is ay p to become eneral ales anager at a large sed car site in eicester for a national
e ne er imagined e o ld one day r n is o n b siness b t oe ad al ays anted to r n a company and grad ally t e rig t opport nity appeared
oe s parents ad bo g t t e site t e former rads a s timber yard in pping am a fe years earlier t as later leased to n y ents an e ent mar ee company ic sadly closed d ring o id follo ing t e deat of its o ner oe and a id a e since bo g t t e site t emsel es and no r n t eir b siness from t ere
omeone approac ed my dad to as if t ey co ld r n an sales from ere oe told me nd e t o g t y don t e a e a go o rsel es
oe bro g t strong b siness e perience a ing or ed for t enty years in er fat er s engineering and crane ire company ile a id ad t e motor trade no ledge and sales bac gro nd oget er t ey decided to sei e t e opport nity a id sold t e o se e ad been renting o t in ambridges ire anded in is notice at t e dealers ip and fo r years ago t ey la nc ed pping am ar ales ic later became e pping am otor ompany imited
Branding and development
e company s distincti e blac and yello branding re ects a id s lo e of ambridge nited and ma es a bold memorable statement on
LAMPORT HALL OPEN EVERY WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY FROM APRIL-SEPTEMBER PLUS BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS. GUIDED TOURS AND FREEFLOW AVAILABLE.
Lamport gardens open every Wednesday-Friday, April-September
Cafe selling hot and cold drinks, cakes, handmade savoury snacks and light lunches Gi shop
Free parking Dogs on leads welcome
Historic Houses members visit for free. Gardener’s World 2 for 1 vouchers accepted.
the forecourt. They have developed the site carefully, making sure each stage worked well before moving on to the next.
‘We’ve spent a lot of time and energy making the site look right, with our branding and state of the art workshops and yellow gates,’ David explains.
They were also fortunate to have help from Zoe’s parents.
‘Thanks to my dad’s experience in structural steel buildings, he was able to help us develop the original building into what it is today as a very generous wedding present when we got married three years ago, for which we’re extremely grateful. And instead of a honeymoon, we bought our MOT equipment,’ says Zoe.
Originally the plan was simply for David to focus on used car sales, but the business quickly evolved. They now operate a busy repair and MOT centre alongside vehicle sales.
‘We’ve sold nearly 600 cars in four years,’ David says. ‘We’ll sell any make or model of vehicle, but since the workshop opened that side of the business has really grown.’
Two experienced mechanics - who had previously worked with David - joined the team. The pair arebrother in lawsand have worked toget er on and off for more t ant enty fi e years adding to t e family feel of the business.
Mini heaven
The company specialises in Minis, which David believes suit almost everyone. ‘A Mini really does work for all sorts of people,’ he says.
ey re safe and st rdy b t also sporty ey re great first cars and they’re actually bigger and more practical than people expect.’ Models such as the Countrymanoffer extra space and a slightly higher seating position, which can make getting in and out easier for older drivers.
The Coppins also place a huge importance on customer relationships. ‘We want repeat business, and word of mouth matters,’ Zoe explains. ‘We’ve sold cars to people who later come back to buy t eir c ildren s first cars from s and e loo after t e ole family s servicing, MOTs and repairs.’
Some moments still make Zoe emotional. ‘When someone buys t eir first car e rap a big bo aro nd it and a e a board t at says ‘My First Car.’ I often end up in tears. And sometimes older ladies come in who’ve recently lost their husbands and don’t know what to
do about their car. I’m very proud of the way our team talks to customers, they’re kind, patient and never patronising.’
The team will often check tyres for customers heading off on long journeys alone, something many say their husbands used to do for them.
Originally Zoe planned to work part-time while still helping with her father’s business, but the motor company quickly became too busy. ‘David and I are both chatterboxes,’ she laughs. ‘So, we’ve got to know a lot of people locally. If we weren’t doing a good job they wouldn’t come back. We treat customers the way we’d treat our own friends and family, and we never make people spend money if they don’t need to.’
Most mornings there’s already a queue forming as customers drop off cars or simply stop by for a chat. Zoe has a remarkable memory for names. David, by contrast, admits he’s better at remembering number plates.
o ll find e pping am otor ompany on laston oad a short walk down the hill from the town centre, or the other way, just past the garden centre. They’re always happy to help and offer advice on anything car related. For more information, pop in or call them on t ey d lo e to see yo
uppinghamcarsales.co.uk
WILL’S WALK
Uppingham to Stamford
This 17-mile route is the finest walk in the area and the only problem is getting stuck in one of the pubs along the way, as Will Hetherington found out on one stormy autumn day.
There were about 20 of us in the group when we set off from the cricket ground on the eastern edge of Uppingham at 9am on Saturday 4 October last year. Storm Amy was paying a visit that weekend and, while the worst had already passed e ad a significant tail ind – no bad thing as we were planning to walk t e magnificent miles across tland all the way to Stamford, marginally over the border in incolns ire t s t e finest all day walk in the region, is best walked from west to east (because of the prevailing wind) and is perfect for a nice day in spring when the birds are singing and t e o ers are blooming.
A piece of paradise
e first illage on t e ro te st o er t e field from pping am is little isbroo e with its utterly charming church along the quiet lane just before the farm. It could hardly be more Famous Five. The path soon leads to a peaceful hidden valley with a wooden bridge over the babbling brook. It’s one of those little pieces of paradise that make walking and exploring so rewarding.
The ascent out of the little valley brings you to the brink of the Welland valley and the next village is Seaton, where the George and ragon lies in ait b t not at am and with many miles to go. Should you be there during opening hours do not miss out – it’s a cracking place run by good people with a Sunday lunch renowned in the area, good beer a roaring fire and an e cellent men well worth a visit. To carry on from Seaton head down the lane past the church and take the footpath which continues south.
Viaducts and village greens
From Seaton descend into the valley with the imposing and fabulous railway viaduct looming ahead. With 82 arches it’s more than a kilometre long and I always feel it’s rather overlooked when reading about Rutland and the east midlands. But maybe it’s better that way?
Just the other side of the viaduct and over the border into Northamptonshire lies sleepy Harringworth and then it’s nearly three miles along the valley to Barrowden. Initially the Welland is on your left until you cross Turtle Bridge and return to Rutland. When you reach Barrowden, the Exeter Arms lies in wait. Could there be a more quintessential setting for an English country pub than the village green and the duck pond in this prettiest of Rutland settlements? It’s a cracking spot and a lovely pub with a superb
garden for the summer months. If you get there before the pub is open there is also a nice picnic bench down by the pond to enjoy your cheese and pickle sandwiches and pork pie.
Barrowden is roughly halfway on this route so it’s psychologically important, as is the next section to Tixover, when you really break the back of the walk. The meandering river means it’s also a meandering route, albeit rat er lo ely t ro g t e fields and woods. After crossing the A47 at Tixover and passing Tixover Grange, there is a long straight stretch to Ketton where we have noticed Collyweston church up on the hill never seems to get any closer or further away. Morale can sometimes dip here, probably because it’s a straight line and the scenery doesn’t really change for half an hour or so.
‘The first village on the route, just over the field from Uppingham, is little Bisbrooke, with its utterly charming church along the quiet lane just before the farm. It could hardly be more Famous Five.’
The doors of nirvana
However, on this occasion we had a bit more spring in our step because it was approaching 2pm and that just happens to be when the doors open at The Railway Inn on a Saturday. As we positively skipped towards the pub we could see a couple of thirsty souls already waiting to quench their thirst. And then, like a blessing, the doors opened as we arrived.
Having already covered a glorious 12 miles in rather stormy conditions we could not have been more ready for a pint. After t e first pint of t e simply s perb icycle ief from o nd orner re ing disappeared, the second swiftly followed.
When
plans change
At this point, the most dutiful members of the group started to look a bit twitchy, eying up their rucksacks and waterproofs. And, as sure as night follows day, the leader of this elite unit soon declared they were about to resume the route up to Easton and then back into Stamford before it was too late.
As we waved them goodbye the rest of us clearly knew our walking was done for the day. I mean, I ask you, after 12 miles of idyllic Rutland, why would we leave the warm embrace of the pub with Amy still kicking up a fuss outside too? We also felt the over-riding urge to support a local business, and I make no apology for that. Luckily, supportive friends and family members were on hand to collect the rest of us after sunset.
I have walked this route many times and t e final section is st as re arding as t e rest, but this time The Railway happened, very happily.
Essential information
DIFFICULTY
HIGHLIGHTS
The viaduct, the Welland valley, Seaton, Barrowden, Uppingham, Stamford and some great pubs along the way.
LOWLIGHTS
It’s obviously a very long walk so involves planning ahead and car collection, depending on where you start/live.
POOCH PERSPECTIVE
Your dog needs to like long walks for this one. There are some good access points to the Welland and other waterways along the way. There will be livestock but also long stretches without. My dogs have always loved it.
REFRESHMENTS
Take your pick in Uppingham and Stamford and along the way you will find the George & Dragon in Seaton, the Exeter Arms and the village shop in Barrowden and The Railway in Ketton.
NAVIGATION
For your own safety and navigation make sure you have an OS map with you when you go out walking. You won’t regret it.
Ketton
Collyweston
Wakerley
Harringworth
Bisbrooke
Barrowden
Easton on the Hill
FINISH Stamford
Buildinghealthy habits forlife
AtOundleSchoolSportsCentre, weprideourselvesonbeinga supportivecommunityfor everyone.Withactivitiesforevery ageandeveryability,we’re confidenttherewillbe somethingforyouwithinour Centre.
Oakham School is celebrating a trio of national sporting achievements with teams in rugby, hockey and football all reaching their respective finals.
The 1st XV boys’ rugby team have qualified for the National U18 Plate Final, the U16 girls’ hockey have reached the Tier 1 Plate Final, and the 1st XI boys’ football team have secured their place in the Limitless Cup Final.
The strong performances continue across the board. The 1st XI boys’ hockey team are through to the last 16 of the Tier 2 Cup, the U16 boys’ rugby squad have reached the County cup final, and the U15 boys’ rugby remain in contention in their national competition. In addition, six Oakham teams will compete at the Rosslyn Park national schools sevens, further underlining the school’s depth of talent and sustained momentum this season.
Pokémon champ
A huge congratulations to Leo, from LGS Stoneygate, who is an exceptional talent in the world of competitive Pokémon Trading card game. Already a professional player, Leo travels internationally to compete in elite championship events and has successfully qualified for the Pokémon world cups held in Japan, England and the United States.
Leo’s impressive medal haul includes three golds, one silver and four bronze, reflecting his consistent success on the global stage. His achievements have earned him sponsorship from Geek Retreat Kettering, who now support him as he competes in major events and represents their store.
With enough ranking points already secured, Leo has once again qualified for next summer’s Pokémon World Cup, which will be hosted in San Francisco.
An independent co-educational day school for 4-11 year olds 07564 053294 Laxton Junior School 9:30am to 11:30am Laxton Junior School, East Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4BX
New director of sport for Stamford
Stamford School has announced the appointment of Jo Hackett as its new director of sport. Jo will take up the role in September 2026. Jo joins Stamford with more than two decades of senior leadership experience across independent and state-funded education, alongside a strong national profile in school sport strategy. She is currently director of sport for the Loughborough Schools Foundation where she leads the integration of sport across multiple schools and oversees the delivery of a unified and highly successful sports provision.
She has also worked nationally as the first consultant teacher for sport and physical education for the Girls’ Day School Trust, supporting schools with curriculum design, staff development and strategic planning.
In September 2025, Jo was appointed to the Rugby Football Union National Schools Board, contributing to the strategic direction of rugby in schools across the UK. In addition to her senior leadership roles, Jo remains actively involved in performance sport as a performance netball coach within the Under 14 Northants Storm pathway and as a governor at a local primary school.
Gymnastics success
Brooke Priory gymnasts have been practicing hard in the lead up to the Rutland Schools gymnastics competition. Each gymnast had to complete three disciplines: ribbon, core skills and vault. The gymnasts scored points individually and for their team. Mr Smith was thrilled to see the teamwork and confidence demonstrated by each athlete during the competition. The hard work from each gymnast resulted in team silver, team bronze, individual gold, and two individual silvers.
Witham Netballers Head to the IAPS Nationals
Witham Hall’s U13 1st VII girls’ netball team have secured their place in the Independent Association of Prep Schools National Finals after demonstrating exceptional skill and determination at the IAPS Regionals. The competition, held at Ipswich School, brought together schools from across the region, all competing for a coveted place in the National Finals. Congratulations to the girls on this fantastic achievement, and the very best of luck in the Finals, which will be held at Rugby School later this month.
Forest school plans
They’ve had a fantastic start to the school year at St Mary and St John’s in North Luffenham. Year 2 went on a trip to Hamerton Zoo to support their learning in science which they really enjoyed. They have also started an exciting new project of developing a forest school area within the school grounds. They have received a grant from Windmill House Trust to support them with this and also from their PTA. This term they are busy preparing to plant 120 hedging plants received from the Woodland Trust - the children are so keen to get digging!
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Book your place at our next Open Event, Saturday 9 May 2026
Success at Tennis Leicestershire awards
Leicester Grammar School is proud to announce it has been awarded School of the Year at the Tennis Leicestershire Awards. The award recognises the outstanding strength, growth and impact of the school’s tennis programme across all age groups. Judges praised the school’s commitment to participation, performance and the creation of a positive sporting culture that encourages pupils of all abilities to develop their skills and confidence on court.
A key contributor to this success is LGS’s dedicated tennis coach, Luke Godsmark, whose expertise, passion and unwavering commitment has been instrumental in elevating the programme. His work in nurturing talent, fostering teamwork and inspiring pupils has played a major role in this prestigious achievement.
The award celebrates the thriving sports culture at Leicester Grammar School, where pupils enjoy high-quality coaching, excellent facilities and a focus on both personal development and sporting success. Leicester Grammar School extends its congratulations to all winners and nominees at this year’s Tennis Leicestershire Awards.
Cambridge offers for pupils
Stamford School is proud to celebrate the success of two Year 13 students, Ralph and Saskia, who have each received offers to study at the University of Cambridge.
Ralph has received an offer to study Land Economy and Saskia to study Natural Sciences. Securing offers for two of Cambridge’s most demanding and distinctive courses reflects not only Ralph and Saskia’s sustained hard work and intellectual curiosity, but also the strength of the academic and pastoral guidance that supports students throughout their university applications.
Stamford boys’ football through to the final
Stamford School’s U15 boys’ football team delivered a superbly disciplined and determined performance to defeat Woodhouse Grove 2–1 in the semi-final of the ISFA Bowl, booking their place in the national final.
Reaching a national final is a significant accomplishment and a testament to the team’s development, commitment and collective strength throughout the season.
Inspiring International Women’s Day
Leicester High School for Girls marked International Women’s Day with a large-scale event bringing together pupils from year 6 to 13 and visiting pupils from local schools, for a day of inspiring talks, workshops and networking opportunities.
The event began with speakers Akshata Kulkarni, consultant gynaecologist and endometriosis lead at University Hospitals of Leicester, and Danielle Duncan, business consultant in education, who shared insights into their career journeys and encouraged pupils to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
Pupils then took part in a series of workshops led by women working across a wide range of professions including healthcare, law, government, media, business and real estate.
The day concluded with a networking session for sixth form students, giving them the opportunity to speak directly with the speakers and learn more about future career pathways.
The event proved to be an inspiring celebration of women’s achievements and a significant occasion for young people across Leicester.
Spratton Hall is an exceptional independent day prep school for girls and boys aged 4 to 13. Located in 50 acres of rolling Northamptonshire countryside, the school is easily accessible from Leicestershire and Warwickshire.
Friday 8th May 10am - 12pm
“Parents often tell me that the best thing about Spratton Hall is seeing their children coming home with a smile on their face every day. From the moment your child starts at Spratton Hall, their happiness becomes our top priority and we want to ensure that they always have the best childhood possible and experience the best educational and enrichment opportunities.
The best way to see everything that we have to o er your child is to visit us. We have open mornings twice a year, but I am always delighted to give parents a private tour and to answer any questions you may have about starting their Spratton Hall journey in person.”
Simon Clarke Headmaster
ActiveBody
EDITED BY KATE MAXIM
Keep calm and use STILL
STILL Method coach Hannah
Melville explains what it is and how it can help deal with you and your child’s anxiety
Do you have an anxious child? If so, are you wanting to gain a better understanding of feelings. Are you constantly on ‘high alert’ and need some powerful tools to use in the moment? And do you respond best to a structured framework and practical support? If so, then The STILL Method is probably just what you are looking for. This is an education and change of mindset for all ages that lasts a lifetime.
More than just an approach, The STILL Method empowers individuals with tools and techniques they can use to help navigate their own unique, individual day-to-day.
I am an Advanced STILL Method coach and first came across it en my t en seven-year-old was having ‘sore tummies’ going to sc ool e as fine once e as through the door and school reported no problems, but deep down I knew something was up. He didn’t have the words to explain what was wrong. He didn’t need a therapist or counsellor but he needed something, something that would enable him to help himself in those moments when he needed it. Something that would give him insight into, and the words for, what it was he was feeling.
And that is exactly what the STILL Method does. It offers practical support, compassionate understanding and simple, structured steps; a system to use and apply throughout your life. Emotional and wellbeing life skills if you like.
The STILL Method programmes cover all ages from toddlers to adults. They provide frameworks to use in schools and care settings, help parents of anxious children and, within the corporate world, help reduce workplace anxiety and burnout. They empower individuals, families and professionals to li e it confidence
composure and connection and provide a clear, evidence-informed and neuroscience backed pathway to positive and lasting change.
ll programmes are b ilt aro nd t e fi e key pillars:
• Stop - put that pause in so we can take a moment to think and respond (rather than react)
• Talk - learn how to express feelings and thoughts in an informal, relaxed, nonjudgemental space
struggling with social challenges or perhaps you are unsure how best to support your child. Anxiety, stress, what I often call feeling ‘stuck’ or ‘wonky’ affects us all, every day. Some of us manage it well whilst some of us find it o er elming ome of s deal it it by pretending, masking how we are actually feeling. It may show up as overthinking or being stuck in a ‘negative nigel’ mindset. It may show as hiding away, avoidance. Or it may show up physically with sore tummies, persistent tiredness, tension, and so on.
Whatever it looks like and however it manifests, the STILL Method delves below any perceived behaviour to understand exactly what is going on and how that individual’s body and brain works. It’s about regaining self-belief, self-awareness, focus and wellbeing. It’s about developing the confidence resilience and nderstanding to stay calm and manage any situation.
‘It offers practical support, compassionate understanding and simple, structured steps; a system to use and apply throughout your life.’
• Imagine - see life beyond what is currently going on and build achievable baby steps towards that
• Listen - tune into what our body is regularly telling us; build self-awareness
• Learn - create our very own ‘toolbox,’ ie the things that work best for us as an individual
Perhaps your primary aged child is struggling at school, perhaps your teen is
I work with all ages and have trained in grief, sleep, corporate, emotional regulation, trauma informed practice and therapeutic art. I run 1:1 sessions and small groups, in person and online, privately and within schools and care settings.
Some of the issues I’ve helped clients with using the STILL Method include exam preparation ne sc ool confidence managing neurodiversity, focus, setting and achieving goals, life changes, school residentials/trips abroad and social anxiety. Do get in touch if you think I can help you or your child.
hannahmelvillecoaching.co.uk
Nettles aren’t nasty
Medical herbalist Jody Knapp talks about the benefits of nettles and why we shouldn’t just dismiss it as a weed
We are reawakening from the depths of winter. We begin to crave the light, warmth and the longer days of spring. As with nature, our bodies begin to renew as ora pee s t ro g t e soil and fa na returns to the hedgerows.
The slow rhythm of winter, fuelled by cosy early nights and hearty, nourishing foods, gives way to the freshness of spring. As the days grow longer our meals naturally become lighter, focusing on fresh ingredients and a sense of renewal and cleansing.
When out in your own gardens or walking in the countryside, you’ll notice many medicinal plants now making an appearance, awakening the ground. Dandelions, lemon balm, cleavers, wild garlic and nettles grow in abundance to support nature’s health, and ours. There is one spring ‘weed’ that I want to concentrate on.
Often dismissed as a garden weed, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has quietly earned a reputation as one of nature’s most nourishing and restorative medicinal herbs. For centuries herbalists have valued nettle as a powerful ‘blood tonic,’ and today it continues to be celebrated for its wide range of benefits
What makes nettle particularly special is that almost every part of the plant can be used - the leaves, seeds and roots all offer therapeutic properties. Fresh extracts are often considered the most potent, but nettle
is also commonly enjoyed as tea (it’s lovely with rose), soups and tinctures and I particularly like nettle in fresh pesto topped on spaghetti.
Historically, nettle has played many roles in traditional medicine. It has been used to support healthy circulation, to gently cleanse the body and encourage the natural removal of e cess ids ts se is doc mented throughout history, with the great 17thcentury herbalist Nicholas Culpeper recommending the use of young nettle tops in spring to relieve the body of heaviness and stagnancy, which can build up during winter. Nettle continues to be used across Europe as a spring tonic.
Modern herbalists highly value nettle as a deeply nourishing plant. It’s packed with essential nutrients, including iron and vitamins, making it a popular choice for supporting energy levels and overall vitality. e ild plant also contains beneficial plant compounds such as rutin which may help support healthy circulation and assist the body s nat ral deto ification processes Along with rutin, nettle contains other phytochemicals that show antihistamine actions, and therefore can be a useful support for seasonal allergies.
Nettle is also widely known for its gentle support of the urinary system. It is considered a natural diuretic; research shows t at nettle may enco rage ealt y id balance in the body.
If you decide to forage for nettle it is important to locate an area that is away from pollution. Use thick gloves and pick the top four to six leaves by either snipping them with garden scissors or pinching upwards at the stem, being careful of the sting! Young spring nettles are the best; older plants become to g and fibro s lease don t forget to wash your herbs, harvest sparingly, and most importantly, make sure you’re using the correct plant good field identification guidebook is advised.
So, the next time you spot nettle growing in the hedgerow, it might be worth looking at it a little differently - not as a weed, but as a n trient dense plant t at may benefit yo r health.
*This article is for information only and is not medical advice. If you have a medical condition or take prescribed medicines, always seek advice and guidance from a medical herbalist or your health practitioner before using any herbs.
dontsettlepetal.com Instagram @dontsettlepetal
Nettle Pesto
1 cup of blanched young nettle leaves (cooking removes the sting)
¼ cup of pine nuts or walnuts
¼ cup of Parmesan cheese
3 cloves of garlic, grated or crushed
Olive oil
Seasoning
Squeeze of lemon
Either pulse in a blender or use a pestle and mortar to crush together the blanched nettle, garlic, nuts, and cheese. Once combined, but not smooth, begin to add your olive oil until you get your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon.
Use with pasta, fish, chicken, or in a sarnie!
Back in Rutland
Steve Carroll tells us what 20 years in Australia taught him about fitness and purpose
After 20 years living and working in Australia my wife and I have returnedto Rutland. However far life has taken us, including raising our family on the other side of the world, t is as al ays been ome e first met at t e tland Stamford Mercury and it feels great to return with a few stories and lessons gathered along the way.
While overseas I launched a cycling initiative supporting Hands AcrossThe Water, a charity founded by a good matein the aftermath of the 2004 Asian tsunami. What began as a response to tragedy evolved into an annual bike rideacross Thailandsupporting vulnerable children. Along the way the ride has helped raise millions and inspired thousands of ordinary people to step outside their comfort zones and get active for a cause.
And when I say ordinary people, I mean it. Our riders range from 18 to 80. Many wouldn’t have described themselves as cyclists when they signed up. They’re business owners, employees, parents, studentsand retirees, people who simply decided to attempt something slightly bigger than themselves.
at st e first lesson end rance e ents teac yo t ey b ild t e mind before they build the body. Yes, you train. Yes, your legs ache. But what really carries you through a long humid day on the bike is mindset, learning to sit with discomfort and realising that the voice saying can t isn tal ays telling t e tr t o don tfinis beca seyo ret e strongest o finis beca se yo eep going
The second lesson is aboutcommunity. Fitness can feel like a solo pursuit - headphones in, ticking offthe miles. But,time and again eseen t at comm nity dri en fitness creates deeper accountability and longer-term motivation. Whenyou’re riding for a cause alongside others something shifts. You train because youdon’t want to let the group down. You show up because someone else is showing up. Shared challenge builds connection. Activity becomesbelonging.
Thenthere’s the power of combining wellbeing with giving back. Training for your own health is rewarding.Training knowingthat your effort will help fund shelter, care and opportunity for vulnerable children gives those milesmeaning. There were mornings in Thailand when the humidity was relentless and the road seemed endless. But understanding why we were riding changed everything. The discomfort had purpose.
ery ride finis es at one of t e omes o r f ndraising as elped b ild e meet t e c ildren see t e bedrooms sit on t e oorsand hear their stories. You see, quite literally, where the mileswent.It’s impossible to stand there and not feel that the effort was worth it.
I’ll be returning to Thailand in October for my ninth ride with estate agents from Australia, New Zealandand England. And an idea is already formingfor ne t year co ld e ta e a tland and tamford cre o er in gro p of locals stepping p toget er getting fit together and making a tangible difference together.
eca se ift ere sone t ing elearned since t at first ride it s t is all of s are capable of far more t an e t in t gro t rarely happens inside the comfort zone. You don’t need to be elite. You just need to be willing.And when purpose and community come together, extraordinary things really do become possible, at any age.
About the Author
Steve Carroll spent 20 years living and working in Australia, where he founded Digital Live, a property consulting business, and the Digital Live Bike Ride which is now one of the largest charity cycling events in Australia.
A former 1st XV captain at Stamford Rugby Club, Steve and his wife have recently returned to live in Rutland.
Steve is available to speak locally about leadership, fitness and purpose through charity, in exchange for a small donation to his nominated children’s charity.
He can be contacted via digital-live.com.au
Postprandial walks
Good old fashioned common sense springs to mind here and recent research has caught up with it. Mary finds out more
It used to be a tradition in my family, after lunch you went for a walk. I remember both my grandparents and parents doing it and being dragged along as a child (unwillingly quite often) as well. It wasn’t just my family, most people went out for an after lunch walk at the weekend, my retired grandparents every day – and one of my grandfathers used to refer to it as a postprandial stroll. And many of us are still doing the same thing. This tradition has been passed down from generation to generation, and it makes absolute sense. You have to hand it to the older generation – many of whom are still walking after lunch – they do know a thing or two.
ccording to fig res of s str ggle it digesti e discomfort and for many, it has become a part of daily life. While diet is often blamed experts suggest what happens after eating is an often overlooked, yet important factor. New research suggests post-meal movement and our environment are part of the solution.
While food plays a role, a post-meal walk in a calming environment may be the trick to easing bloating or discomfort – it would appear our grandparents really did know best.
o e plore t is f rt er ne researc from al fit a al ing app designed to elp people get fit and stay ealt y e plores o gentle post-meal movement can support digestion.
Deborah Luciano, a PT and nutrition coach, explains why post-meal movement makes a real difference:
‘Bloating, heaviness and sluggish digestion are often brushed off as
‘normal’ after eating, but they shouldn’t be. Digestion isn’t just about what you eat, it’s also about how your body responds afterwards. Sitting still or lying down immediately after meals can slow digestion, increasing t e li eli ood of bloating re and t at ea y uncomfortable feeling many people experience.
‘Gentle post-meal movement helps stimulate gut motility, improves blood sugar regulation and encourages the digestive system to do its ob efficiently o ement acts li e a nat ral digesti e aid and st a small amount helps your body process food the way it’s designed to.
‘But where you move matters too. Our environment plays a real role in how effectively we digest. Calm, low-stress surroundings help signal the body to shift into ‘rest-and-digest’ mode. In fact, studies have shown a strong link between reduced stress and improved digestive function, highlighting how natural, soothing environments can help the body relax into digestion.’
The ultimate post-meal stroll im to start min tes after finis ing yo r meal as t is gi es yo r body a short window to begin initial digestion before gentle movement helps food travel smoothly through your digestive tract. In terms of duration, 10 minutes is ideal. This is enough time to support digestion without overexerting yourself. You can extend it to 15 minutes if you feel comfortable, or longer.
‘Keep your pace easy and relaxed. You should be able to hold a conversation comfortably. Focus on nose breathing to maintain a steady r yt m and o ygen o tep eel to toe it a gentle nat ral arm swing. Avoid sudden speed changes, the goal is light, effortless movement that supports your body rather than challenges it.
‘Lastly, opt for a calm, relaxing environment, where possible. Quiet streets, parks, coastal paths, or any green or blue space reduces stress and helps your nervous system guide your body into digestive mode.’ walkfit.welltech.com
‘While food plays a role, a post-meal walk in a calming environment may be the trick to easing bloating or discomfort’
Needling for success
People are often surprised to hear that physiotherapists use acupuncture as an adjunct to their main treatment.
Chartered physiotherapist
Sarah Babbs explains
Physiotherapists can train under our own Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) and the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS). These teach western acupuncture which is an ‘adaptation of Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology and the principles of evidence based medicine.’ Some practitioners are fully trained in Chinese acupuncture, part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and can use their acupuncture skills independently of their physiotherapy practice.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is believed to have originated around 100 BC in China but was noted in the west after President Kennedy visited China in t e s t in ol es t e insertion of fine needles into specific points in t e body known as meridians, ‘where unseen energy pathways could be stimulated with a needle to affect energy (Qi) within the body in order to support the body back to optimal health’ (AACP). The theory is that when the body is in a ealt y state energy s o ld o naturally around the body. If the Qi becomes blocked or stagnates then symptoms of illness and pain occur. The meridians relate to organs of the body. For example, the stomach, large and small intestine, liver and kidneys all have meridians relating to them.
‘From a western medicine point of view, acupuncture is known to affect pain control. When inserting a needle into specific points certain nerve types are stimulated. ’
From a western medicine point of view, acupuncture is known to affect pain control. en inserting a needle into specific points certain nerve types are stimulated. Messages go both directly to the brain, noted as a sharp pain local to the needle, and via slower transmitting fibres ic ill gi e more of a local ache to a wider area around the needle, sometimes the whole limb.
In the area local to the needle chemicals, including endorphin and serotonin are released, some of which cause local blood vessels to dilate and vascular permeability to be raised, showing a reddening around the area. The effects of acupuncture can work in a similar way to both opioid drugs and those taken for depression.
Acupuncture in practice
Acupuncture is usually used alongside other physiotherapy skills. For example, we might see someone with a history of tennis elbow who has pain on the outside of the forearm particularly when using a hammer or even wringing out a wet cloth. We would assess the patient and check that the pain was not being referred from the neck, shoulder or elbow joints.
Sometimes the patient would have already had treatment such as a corticosteroid injection, tried resting the arm or worn a splint at the elbow. Best practice physiotherapy is to advise to appropriately ‘rest’ the elbow. In other words, keep using the arm but in a different position such as a
downturned wrist which relieves the tension through the tendons from wrist to elbow and using a clasp rather than a splint which alters the pull on the tendons at the elbow. Loading t e tendons more specifically to impro e t e collagen and resilience in the tendon is important, done a few times a week as well as working to improve strength and support around the shoulder is helpful.
However, to aid the current pain, acupuncture can be a great help. Using four specific needle points close to abo e and below the elbow pain, along what is known as the large intestine meridian. Somewhat surprisingly, a point below the knee which helps tendon and muscle repair might also be used. These points might be treated three to four times over a few weeks relieving pain and aiding repair of the tissue and done alongside a long term loading regime to prevent recurrence of the symptoms.
The body we know is able to repair itself well in most circumstances. Indeed, Voltaire was quoted as saying that: ‘The art of medicine consists in amusing the patient while nature cures the disease.’ Having different methods or tools at the p ysiot erapists fingertips is so elpf l in aiding that repair and preventing further problems. Acupuncture, alongside the more traditional physiotherapy techniques such as exercise, manual therapy, good education and understanding of the patient and their concerns, adds wonderfully to our toolbox. www.sarahbabbsphysio.com
The cricket season has started so that means summer is on its way. Jeremy Smithson-Beswick brings us up to date
Spring swings back around as it always does so it’s time for attics and understairs cupboards to reluctantly yield their halfforgotten white treasure of spiderweb covered gloves and pads. The sound of leather on willow echoes again to the boundary as the smell of freshly cut grass lingers over the square and rusty muscles accustom themselves once more to demands not asked for many a month. Cricket is back, and that’s enough to make even the most amateurish of sports hacks poetically minded.
Behind the scenes winter nets and ground preparation have been in full swing and recruitment announcements have started to filter t ro g rg ley ar a e appointed os eller as ead of layer at ay in an inno ati e mo e to strengthen the connection of junior and
adult sections which they see as vital for the long term. Also, to that end, they’ve announced a collaboration with Stamford School which will see their youngsters coached by the school’s professionals and the school using Burghley’s ground when available. The aim is to ‘raise standards in junior cricket locally and support players as they progress through both school and club environments.’
In addition, spinner Raiffe Headley has rejoined the men with brother Caius, and Charlotte Aylmore strengthens the women’s XI. The Lionesses, the girls’ U11 and U13s sides go from strength to strength following their inception last year.
Women’s cricket is on the up at Oakham too. Their softball adult side, who play indoors at Oakham School, have already ad se eral fi t res and t e girls will be making their debut in competitive
league cricket this term. They claim their girl recruitment to be ‘the highest number in Leicestershire’ and are fundraising for dedicated female changing facilities as evidence of their long-term commitment. All will welcome new joiners whether they’ve played cricket before or not. Contact neilsouthern57@hotmail.com or jennyblazey@hotmail.co.uk – or just rock up to t eir i es and ndo ner e enings which ‘bring together young players, parents and friends…junior cricket on the o tfield and families rela ing aro nd t e pavilion.’ Both barbecue and bar are open, just the sort of thing that makes grassroots cricket so special.
Oundle are celebrating their bicentenary it a fi e day cric et ee in ne and have just published the details. Most events will be free in what they call an unforgettable week of cricket with music,
‘Also, to that end, they’ve announced a collaboration with Stamford School which will see their youngsters coached by the school’s professionals and the school using Burghley’s ground when available.’
special guests, marquee, beer festival, brass band and the football world cup on the big screen in the evenings. Details - and tickets to the celebration dinner - from oundletown. com/200.
We plan to have cricketing news from Stamford, Market Harborough et al next month but before we leave cricket it’d be remiss not to give a shout out to Market Deeping’s Nick Andrews who became a double world cup winner last month as England Over 70s defeated hosts New Zealand at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval in a ig scoring fi nal it is fr gal bo ling a significant contrib tion to t e in ey d also beaten Australia 3-0 on the same tour. Not many club’s second XIs can boast such cricket aristocracy.
Football now and Stamford Daniel’s valiant battle against relegation, which looked a forlorn hope a few weeks ago, is now becoming more optimistic it eac fi t re ey mo ed it in t o points of safety with a 3-1 win away at AFC Sudbury which followed another away victory at Anstey
‘Women’s cricket is on the up at Oakham too. Their softball adult side, who play indoors at Oakham School, have already had several 2026 fi xtures and the U13 girls will be making their debut in competitive league cricket this term.’
Nomads. Recent signing Leon Lobjoit looks to have been an inspired one as he’s already clocked up important goals. A narrow defeat to Barwell was the only setback for Graham Drury’s side as they recorded three wins from four - they have games in hand over the other contenders for the drop to boot. Strength in depth isn’t the problem as the reserves recently won 8-0 away from home. Anyway, the grind goes on, as they put it.
n t e same leag e arboro g o n are now top having won a couple of their games in hand and lead Spalding, who are the only other realistic candidates for the title, by t o points ey d bo nced bac from a defeat to Banbury by beating an in-form orcester ity it a goal from erell Pennant who was also named man of the matc oss itc sten said on s the game today. He was fantastic. So direct, so energetic ey t en beat is op s Stortford 3-0 away having ‘dominated’ the first alf in at loo ed to be a diffic lt esday nig t fi t re it a long o rney
Market Harborough’s rugby side are not to be outdone by their footballing colleagues and they too sit proudly atop their league table – in their case by a clear seven points after wins against Peterborough, Kettering and Stamford. It was 0-14 to the Black Cats at alftime in t e fi t re at ambleton oad but hiccups, to say the least, closely followed the start of the second period as within four minutes both Shea Harley and Jack Burrows recei ed yello cards ere t en follo ed what the club’s Ernie Machin called ‘a monumental defensive performance led by immy aterfield and t e captain it a ‘they shall not pass attitude’ that kept Stamford at bay for the duration of the binnings. With a full complement restored, Harborough increased their lead to 31-0 before a late consolation try from Stamford. Machin described the referee as making ‘some odd decisions’ which, thankfully, is about as rude as RFU clubs ever get when describing officials
So, Stamford’s own hopes of making the play-off positions have taken a slight backward step but are still alive as they trail fift placed eterboro g by only fi e points ings are e en better in t e c p competitions it bot omen s first and colts reac ing t e fi nals of t eirs and t e men s in t e semis o complete the good news, they reported that: ‘Our very own Seva Batikora has been selected in the 40 strong England U18 training squad ahead of the Six Nations Festival’. Some achievement that. at s it for t is mont ric et is coming so the summer’s on its way!
Image: Jenny Blazey
On your bike
This month Gary Waterfall heads north from Oakham on a 23 mile route with 1,100 feet of climb
Start from Oakham castle and head north out of Oakham to Ashwell. Then keep going north all the way through Teigh until you reach Wymondham. In the village turn left at the T-junction and then right up the hill past the Windmill.
At the windmill there’s a good bike shop and café if needed, although you are only a third of the way through the ride. Carry on down the hill past the windmill until you reach Garthorpe. Turn left here to Stapleford and it’s best to ride single file if riding in company here. Take care along this road, there are lots of passing places on a mostly single track road.
Stapleford Park is where the climb starts and continues for the next six miles, so be ready! Turn left to Whissendine and then follow the road through the village until you reach a T-junction. Turn left and then immediately right off the busy road. Now, it’s a relatively tough climb all the way to Cold Overton and up to the T-junction opposite Gates Garden Centre. And now for the payback, a beautiful downhill stretch of road to take you to Langham. Cross the busy road and follow it to the roundabout short of Ashwell before retracing your steps back into Oakham.
For the route, follow this link or scan the QR code. https://www.strava.com/ routes/3453835197057024060
