Country Living - Aspire Magazine

Food & DrinkDelicious& LocalIn recent years, where our food and drink comes from and how it is produced hasbecome something consumers are more aware of. Each item of food we buy has what’sknown as ‘carbon miles’. These are based on the amount of carbon that’s been emittedinto our atmosphere to get the food from source to your plate. To limit your carbon foodmiles, you should buy as locally as possible. Buy fruit and veg from your local farmersmarket or check the labels at the supermarkets; most will state an original source.Another great way to reduce your carbon food miles is by eating seasonally, whichmeans eating food that’s at its peak when it comes to flavour and nutritional content.Seasonal, local food is fresher than its counterparts; it hasn’t spent as long in transit socan be on your plate, straight from the field in which it grew, within 24 hours.Britain produces some delicious, home-grown foods that get exported across the globe(such as Melton Mowbray pork pies and Stilton cheese) but it’s not just produce that’sdelicious; the numerous restaurants, particularly across the Aspire region, offer a varietyof traditionally prepared dishes, using locally sourced produce that are sure to take yourtastebuds on a gastronomic journey. From country pubs and charming tea rooms toMichelin starred restaurants, the Aspire region has it all!Great Britain is a great nation, especially when it comes to food and drink. Our tastebuds have developed over the years and we’re now enjoying a wide range of cuisinesright on our doorstep. Indian, Italian, Mexican, Spanish, French, Turkish, Greek andChinese dishes are no longer delicacies; they’re an essential part of modern-day Britishdiets.Highcross in Leicester is currently in the middle of a six-week around-the-worldexperience, hosting a range of internationally-themed events and restaurant offers,which will all be centred around the centre’s stay-cation summer. We’ve already enjoyeda sample of American culture and until the 31st of July you can still enjoy Asian week.But from August 1st until the 7th, Italy comes to Leicester thanks to Italy Week. Freegelato with every main meal, pasta demos, and kid’s focaccia-making classes are allon the menu at Carluccios, giving a real taste of Italy to all those involved. ‘The SingingWaiters’ and the ‘Buona Nota’ band also have some entertainment up their sleeves. Ifthat’s not enough to get your taste buds tingling, there’s still British Week (August 8th -14th), French Week (August 15th - 21st) and Spanish Week (August 22nd – 28th) to lookforward to. For further information on all these events, visitwww.highcrossleicester.comIf you want to sample some of the best dishes and produce from the East Midlands, atrip to Melton Mowbray’s Cattle Market on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd of October forthe East Midlands Food and Drink Festival. The perfect setting, Melton Mowbray (knownas the Rural Capital of Food and Drink), will once again bring together a huge selectionof edible delights from some of the country's finest producers, as well as host anexciting array of live demonstrations. With places to pause, eat and drink, the Festival isjust the perfect day out for everyone from the serious foodie to the happy browser! Visitwww.eastmidlandsfoodfestival.co.uk for further details.The ideal way to experience food at its best is to get cooking. Cooking from scratch isnot only fun, it’s cheaper than buying ready-made meals. It’s also healthier, as you canuse fresh, seasonal ingredients, steamed or grilled to perfection. If you’re not sure whatto cook, visit www.aspiremagazinegroup.com and download some delicious recipes(all lovingly prepared by our resident chef Neil Walker) from the ‘back issues’ section.Make A ChangeFor The BetterAre you one of the many who dream ofmaking big changes to your life? Whether it’sa brand new career, a boost in self-confidenceor major weight loss that you dream of, it’stime to stop waiting for these major changesto happen and start doing something to makethem a reality.When it comes to job searches or even achange in career, many of us can quicklyfeel disheartened; as a result of the unstableeconomic climate employers everywhereseem to have reduced staff numbers or haltedrecruitment, whilst employees are clinging totheir current jobs in fear that they won’t findanything else. However, if you really want tomake the change you need to take positiveaction.To start your job search a CV revamp isessential. Don’t just list your previous jobsand the duties involved, take time to thinkabout what you’ve achieved and the key skillsyou have gained throughout your time inthe role in order to really sell yourself. It’s alsobeneficial to get someone else to look overyour CV before you send it out to make surethere are no errors or gaps. Always prepare forinterviews by asking yourself why you wantto work for a certain company and why theyshould employ you over any other candidates.WINNER: Aspire Certificate of Recognition forBest Personal Development Business 2011Self DevelopmentOnce you’ve prepared yourself for thesearch, make the most of all of the searchoptions available to you. There are a wealthof recruitment websites out there, but inorder to promote your talents and skills, anddemonstrate yourself as being a cut abovethe rest, you need to go one step further.Social networking sites, such as Twitter andFacebook, can be used to your advantage andare a great way to contact companies to letthem know you’re interested in their productsand services. Setting up your very own websitecan also help you showcase your abilities.Sometimes people can lack the selfconfidencethey need to transform their lives,after all change can be a frightening thing, butthere are people out there who can help yourediscover what you really want out of life andhow to get it. Whether you’re afraid of failureor lack the motivation to transform your life,taking advice from a life coach can help youwork through the issues holding you back,focus your energies and give you a whole newlease of life.It’s not just your career that a life coach canhelp you with, a trained professional canunlock your true potential in almost any aspectof your life.Life coaching can transform your life. If you’re looking for a trusted and recommended life coach,Aspire would like to recommend the unique life coaching programmes offered by Jacqueline Pigdonof Jina Life, winner of our Certificate of Recognition for Best Personal Development Business 2011.Working with Jina Life, clients can expect to:• Discover your purpose in life and turn it into yourideal career• Reduce stress levels - create work/life balance!• Get clear on what you really want in life and reachyour full potential• Learn exactly how you can find your soul mate ordrastically improve your current relationship!• Achieve results faster than you would on your own• Breakthrough negative patterns and cycles forever• Make massive improvement in any of these areasand more – Self Confidence, Transition & Change,Career, Business, Relationships, Family, Financial,Weight Loss, Health & Wellness• Increase your success, happiness and fulfilment bylearning unique spiritual insights that you will not findanywhere else!Get your FREE life resource pack:Simply go to www.jinalife.co.uk and sign up for:• 7 keys to spiritual enlightenment E-book• 45-minute Free life strategy coaching session!• Motivate your Monday quotes• Wednesday’s wisdom video coaching tips• And more… absolutely FREE!“We offer so many fantastic free resources as yourfirst step that anyone can start having their very ownlife coach online with us at Jina Life Today!”Sign up ASAP as Strategy Sessions with Jacquelineare strictly limited and we don’t want you to miss outon this Special Jina Life award-winning offer to Aspirereaders!Jacqueline told Aspire: “Having a personal life coachcan benefit you if you are stuck in a rut, feeling lostor even if you appear to have everything but feel thatsomething is missing.”Claire Tipton, Aspire’s Editor, said: “It’s amazing howlife coaching can transform your life and get youthe things you’ve always dreamed of; whether it’s acareer doing something you love, that elusive work/life balance or even increased self-confidence. It’s allpossible thanks to Jacqueline at Jina Life.”Aspire Sales Manager, Stacey Wragg, who nominatedJina Life for our Certificate of Recognition, added:“The current economic climate and state of the job’smarket has got us all feeling like we’re stuck in arut and unable to achieve that longed for work/lifebalance. Jacqueline can help you make the most ofyour life, no matter what you desire.”Tel: 07500 626935 | Web: www.jinalife.co.uk | Email: Jacqueline@jinalife.com14 ASPIRE ASPIRE 15

Aspire RecommendsBringingYou TheBest...Are you looking for something a little bitdifferent? Whether it’s goods, services oradvice you’re in need of, it can often behard to find what you’re looking for if it’s notreadily available on the High Street. Fromoutstanding eateries to financial advice,spiritual support to special gifts, here atAspire we like to celebrate companies thatoffer items and services that are a littledifferent to the norm.It’s amazing how fast the year flies by; we’realready into the second half of 2011 andover the last few months we’ve found someamazing companies, both local and national,that we believe can make a big difference tothe lives of our readers.We believe that good customer service andsupport is essential, whatever your business,and the companies that we highlight offerthis in abundance. Going the extra milefor all of their customers and promising atruly personalised experience, the rangeof companies featured within our pagesguarantee that the experience you have withthem, whether it be shopping, dining ordiscussing, will stand out from the rest.Whilst many people may be turning to theInternet for what they believe are the bestbargains, investing your money in the goodssupplied by the companies we have found isless of a risk. Unfortunately, the World WideWeb has made it easy for less discerningcompanies to appear legitimate andsadly, there are scams out there that havetricked honest people across the countryout of their hard earned cash. However, bychoosing a well-established company that’sbeen recommended to you by a friend,family member or your favourite publication,you can side-step the risk and invest yourmoney in a company you can trust.Aspire always strive to support independentbusinesses and specialist services becausewe believe there are many advantages tochoosing these over their large, multinationalcounterparts. With an independentcompany you will never be treated likejust a number because they value yourcustom and support. The companies withinour feature also offer their customers thewhole package: high quality products andcompetitive prices, alongside personalservice, and we’ve searched high and low,across the length and breadth of the UK tofind you these companies.Editor, Claire Tipton, says: “Here at Aspire,we believe it is important to highlight thecompanies and services that really matterto our readers, which is why we regularlycelebrate those that offer something special.Recognising that good value for money,excellent customer service and high qualitygoods are three of the most importantfactors our readers look for in a company,we strive to find businesses that offer allthree and work exceptionally hard to tailorour advertising to our readership. In thecurrent economic climate, we also believethat supporting independent businessesand services is essential in order to helpthem survive and flourish, after all it’s thesecompanies that bring character to our HighStreets.”Compass Willsa step in the right directionYOUR LOCAL, FAMILY-RUNWILL WRITING SPECIALISTS• Will writing• Storage• Trusts• Lasting power of attorney• Advance DirectivesFREE INITIAL CONSULTATIONSingle Will £59Mirror or joint Will £99Covering all of Leicestershire and thesurrounding area with flexible appointmentsin the comfort of your own homeContact Chris Worth for a friendly chatTel: 0116 277 6871 Mobile: 07967 612524or email info@compasswills.co.ukThe Cabin | 118 Station Road |Countesthorpe | Leicestershire | LE8 5TBCenacleA Space And Time ForPersonal ReflectionRelax & Indulge At The CrownBoasting hearty food, greatentertainment and the warmest ofwelcomes, a visit to The Crown inAsfordby comes highly recommended.Whether it’s a traditional Sunday lunch,a game of darts or a quiet drink you wantto enjoy, this delightful Leicestershirepub has it all.Having been charmed by the oldfashionedpublic house, husband andwife team, Robin and Christine Winter,took over the running of The Crownfour and a half years ago, as Christineexplains: “The Crown was quite rundownat the time, but we just saw the massivepotential that it had and have workedhard on refurbishments ever since; we’recurrently tackling one area at the timeand have plans for new furniture andother changes in the future.”Robin and Christine’s work has well andtruly paid off. In 2010, the couple werethrilled when The Crown was selected byThe Morning Advertisers for ‘The BestTurnaround Pub’ award for the Midlandsin their annual Great British Pub Awards.Over the last few years TheCrown has become renownedfor its food, which can besampled six days a week. FromTuesday to Saturday, visitorscan choose from a mouthwateringselection of lunchtime andevening meals, including everythingfrom traditional pub grub to seasonalspecials. Sundays are reserved for thepub’s famous lunchtime carvery, wherecustomers can indulge in a choice offour different meats, seasonal vegetables,potatoes and a rich, boozy gravy.Booking is recommended, but not alwaysessential.Christine says: “Our cuisine is fairlytraditional and we try to use localproduce where at all possible, but this issomething we hope to expand on in thefuture. We’re also proud to be the firstpub in Leicestershire to have introducedSteakStones, which are a little noveland different, and allow our customersto cook their own steak at their table.Basically, the steak is served seared on ahot platter, so people can finish offthe cooking process themselves andenjoy their steak exactly how they like it.They’ve proved to be extremely popularand since we’ve been using them we’venever had a steak returned.”If you’re looking for an entertaining tripto the pub then The Crown has plentygoing on. Christine says: “Our sportsteams are very popular, we have six dartsteams, two pool teams and two petanqueteams, but our facilities are available forall visitors to use.”To book a table or find out more about The Crown, call 01664 812175 | www.asfordby.comShepherds BathroomsScoop Certificate of RecognitionWith a history stretching back to 1925,Shepherd’s Bathrooms have a wealthof knowledge and expertise that’ll helpyou turn your dreams of a bathroomsanctuary into a reality, which is why Aspirehave selected them for a Certificate ofRecognition for Home Improvements2011/12.Established by Keith Shepherd, Shepherd’sBathrooms is now in the capable handsof Keith’s nephew Kevin Shepherd, whohas worked for Shepherd’s Bathrooms for35 years, and his business partner JasonWeetman, who has worked at Shepherd’sBathrooms for 25 years.Jason said: “Kevin and I have about 60years’ experience between us working forShepherd’s Bathrooms so it seemed right totake over the business when Keith retiredlast year. We’ve relocated the business fromNorthgate Street in Leicester to HinckleyRoad and can cater for as much or as littleof your bathroom refurbishment as youwish. We sell bathroom suites and fixtures(shower enclosures, baths and basins) totake away and we also provide a design andinstallation service.”With 30 different bathroom displays rangingfrom traditional to contemporary in theHinckley Road showroom, there’s a designto suit every taste. Take away suites andfixtures start from just £249 and you canrest assured that all stock is of the highestquality from top manufacturers. Jasonexplained: “We can incorporate differentaspects of each design for you; you don’thave to have a display as you see it, we wantyour bathroom to be perfect for you andyour family.”Aspire Sales Executive, Emily Davison,nominated Shepherd’s Bathrooms for ourCertificate of Recognition, she said: “Thebathroom is the most used room in thehouse so finding quality products is essential.At Shepherd’s you’re guaranteed a fast andfriendly service from the experienced andknowledgeable team of staff to ensure yourdream bathroom becomes a reality.”Mon - Fri, 9am ‘til 5pm, Sat 10am ‘til 4pm0116 255435 1 www.shepherdsbathrooms.com | Sat Nav: LE3 0TDGive yourself time to grow in confidence & self esteem, to deepen yourrelationship with family and friends, whilst exploring your spiritual journey.As a group of religious sisters (founded in 1826 in the village of LaLouvesc, France), we have nearly 200 years’ experience enabling people ofall backgrounds and ages, of all faiths and none, to find their place in ourworld.We offer a variety of approaches to support and encourage you in yourdaily living:• Monthly spiritual accompaniment – the opportunity to reflect with aspiritual companion about your life, its events, relationships with God andothers, and the opportunity to explore the meaning of your life• Weekly counselling/psychotherapy – this can help your personaldevelopment and growth, as well as offering the processes for you to findself-acceptance, fulfilment and inner peace• Monthly supervision of pastoral work• Occasional group facilitation• Self development and growth workshops – using Enneagram andMyers-Briggs techniques• A nine-month intensive spirituality programmeAs well as working in 16 countries worldwide (including Brazil, Togo,New Zealand, Australia, North America, and the Philippines), the Cenaclesisters are situated in the south and the northwest of England and insouthern Ireland.For an informal chat or for more information,please contact Sr. Kathleen on 0161 2261241 /07803 162769, email kathleeenhopkins@btinternet.com or visit www.cenaclesisters.co.uk16 ASPIREASPIRE 17

Aspire RecommendsExpert FinancialPlanning FromSituated in Leicester, in the heart of the EastMidlands, Santorini Financial Planning isthe brain-child of experienced financialadvisor, Matthew Walne. Matthew establishedSantorini at the end of 2010 to offer financialplanning for individuals and business ownersacross Leicestershire and into Derbyshire andNottinghamshire.Matthew said: “Santorini specialise in offering longtermadvice for long-term financial planning. I wouldencourage Aspire readers to contact me if they’reworried about their pension investments or theirsavings as these seem to be the two areas individualsare most concerned about at the moment. We’reliving longer yet the state pension is still poor, formost, and with interest rates being so low, it can behard to know where to invest your money to make areturn. I can offer bespoke, individual advice specificto you on both these areas, and more.”Offering advice on all aspects of financial planning,Santorini takes a more holistic approach, focusingon what the client wants to achieve, what theirmotivation is, what they fear and what they wantfrom life; this allows Santorini to fit each individualclients’ financial architecture around their life.Earlier this year, Matthew came to the Aspire officesto offer our Editor, Claire Tipton, tailored financialadvice. She said: “Matthew was a breath of fresh air;as a successful business woman with an establishedbusiness I’ve dealt with numerous financial advisorsover the years and all seem to have offered me‘package’ advice, but Matthew really listened towhere I am with my career as well as my personallife. With a one-year-old daughter and a husbandto consider and plan for, my focus is different nowI’m in my mid-thirties than it was in my twenties; Iwas very career focused and looked out for numberone then, however since meeting my husband andhaving my child, my priorities have changed and Iwant to achieve that elusive work-life balance andmake the money I’ve earned work for me in thelong-term. It was nice to talk to someone of a similarage, but at the same time know that the advice hewas giving me was bespoke; although I’m a businesswoman in my 30s, I don’t necessarily need or wantthe same advice as another business woman in her30s. I’d highly recommend that anyone wanting toplan for their future has a chat with Matthew, if onlyto see what their options are. The other nice thingabout dealing with Matthew is knowing that as Imove closer to retirement, I won’t be passed ontosomeone else within the firm as ‘my’ financial advisorhas retired or moved on.”Aspire are so impressed with the ethos and attitudeof Santorini, as well as the advice and expertise onoffer, earlier this year we selected the company for aCertificate of Recognition for Financial Services 2011.On hearing the news, Matthew said: “Thank you somuch for this recognition Aspire. It’s great to havesuch prestigious recognition so soon after startingmy own business. It’s a great boost and I hope ithighlights my services to more Aspire readers, inorder for me to help as many people as possible sortout their finances and plan for their future.”Santorini Financial Planning was nominated for thisCertificate of Recognition by Aspire Sales Manager,Stacey Wragg, who said: “The economic trouble ofthe last few years has hit many of us hard. The onlyway to ensure you’re financial future is secure is bytalking to a trained professional. Matthew is not onlya trained professional with a wealth of experience,he’s also totally focused on getting the best for hisclient, no matter what that is. He doesn’t have hisown agenda, but simply wants to help all of hisclients on the road to financial security, whetherthey’re just starting out or about to retire. I’m sopleased he’s been selected for our Certificate ofRecognition for Financial Services 2011 and I hopeAspire readers turn to him as a result!”TEL: 0116 235 5733 EMAIL info@santorini-fp.co.uk WEB www.santorini-fp.co.ukSantorini Financial Planning Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Financial Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority18 ASPIREASPIRE 19

Stewart’s Watches & JewelleryT: 0116 2705635www.stewartswatches.co.ukNew Era AcademyTimeless Jewellery & WatchesAt Your Finger Tips Atnew era academywww.neweraacademy.co.ukNew Era AcademyThe Best In PerformingArts EducationFinding the perfect piece of jewellery or thattimeless watch can be difficult, especially onthe High Street. There are so many pieces thatare too fashionable to last you until the end ofthe year, or owned by too many people to betruly personal and unique. If you’re looking forsomething a little different, Aspire would liketo recommend a visit to the newly establishedStewart’s Watches and Jewellery on AllandaleRoad in Leicester.Having opened its doors to the public on March1st, Stewart’s Watches and Jewellery is fastbecoming a destination for finding somethingunusual and unique. The brain child of fatherand son team, Graham and Robert Stewart,Stewart’s Watches and Jewellery specialisein some truly exclusive brands, as Robertexplained: “Watches are my passion; I wantedto offer something different so have sourcedbrands that very few outlets in the UK sell,I’ve purposely gone for brands that are morepopular on The Continent than they are herein order to offer something unique and prettyexclusive to my customers. All our watches areproper high quality, high precision mechanicaltimepieces that are classic, timeless, somethingthat can last a lifetime and then be passed on toyour children or grandchildren.”Stewart’s Watches and Jewellery offerapproximately eight different watch brands,including:• Nomos, which are good quality Germanwatches, all made in-house even down to themovements, which many watchmakers buy in.• MeisterSinger, again a German make that takesa different approach to timekeeping, relying onjust a single hand to tell the time: “They wanttheir watch wearers to relax and not rely onknowing every minute of every hour of theday,” Robert explained.• Giuliano Mazzuoli, a good quality Italian rangewhose faces look similar to pressure gauges.Robert explained: “Our prices start from £120rising up to about £3,000. The watches we sellaren’t the sort of watches you buy to only wearfor six months or so; they’ll last a lifetime and assuch are classic in style – they’re timeless!”As well as a range of high quality watches,Stewart’s Watches and Jewellery also stock awonderful range of stylish and fashionablejewellery by three designers, as Robertexplained: “Most of the brands we stock areonly really sold within London, you’d be hardpressed to find them outside of the capital.Firstly there’s Nicholas King, which is a greatrange of bright and bold statement bangles,then there’s some great ‘retro’ silver pieces fromLaura Tabor and finally a range of rings andbracelets influenced by the East, Aamaya byPriyanka. None of this is particularly high end,averaging £100 per piece.“We pride ourselves on that fact that buying awatch or item of jewellery from us will not onlybe a great experience (assisted by someone whois passionate about the ranges we sell, as wellas being knowledgeable), but the item will alsolast a lifetime, never going out of fashion orbreaking down as the majority of our watchesare mechanical, not relying on batteries. Veryfew people in the Midlands, let alone the UKhave what we sell, so you’re almost guaranteedto be getting something different, somethingunique.”A specialist examining body for the performingarts, New Era Academy boast a vast and variedsyllabus of graded examinations. Coveringevery discipline from acting to musical theatre,mime to public speaking, the organisation’sethos and drive promises to deliver studentsan exciting educational experience, and anunrivalled grasp of their chosen discipline.Established in 1941, New Era Academy is awell-known name in the world of theatre, but it’sthanks to actor, Derren Nesbitt, and his wife,Miranda, that the organisation has taken on anew lease of life, as he explains: “Miranda and Iwere asked to get involved in New Era Academythree years ago and it was an experience Ithought would be interesting and challenging.Despite being a very old, established firm,the Academy really was behind the times, butwe’ve made incredible changes since then,transforming it into one of only five examawarding bodies in the UK.”Appointed Chief Executive, Derren, who has40 films to his name, is revelling in his new roleand is excited to have the opportunity to passhis skills and expertise onto a new generation,alongside Examination Director, Miranda.Derren says: “We’ve been on a very excitingjourney over the last three years, which beganby introducing James Bond legend, Sir RogerMoore, and tough guy actor, Ray Winstone, aspatrons of the Academy. We’ve also recentlylaunched a new branch of New Era Academyin Sri Lanka, which is incredibly exciting – theenthusiasm of the Sri Lankan children is veryrewarding to see.“There are a large number of organisationsacross England, Scotland, Wales and Irelandwho are using New Era Academy as theirexamining board and I believe this is becauseour ethos differs a great deal to that of otherexam boards. Exams are a time of great tensionand can be very daunting, but we want everystudent to enjoy the experience of the exam andto want to do it again. It’s all about developingtheir self-confidence and helping them torecognise that they can, and ultimately have,achieved a very personal thing.”The way the syllabus for each discipline is puttogether is also unique at New Era Academy.With a wealth of experienced, knowledgeableexperts on hand, each discipline is devised bya subject specialist, who creates an informativeand inspiring teaching pack. An expert in theatreand performance, Derren himself has createdthe Shakespeare syllabus, which is proving tobe very popular with schools across the country.The inspiring disciplines on offer at New EraAcademy include:• Acting • Choral Speaking • Communication• Devised Drama• English as a Second Language• Interview Technique • Mime • Musical Theatre• Public Speaking • Reading • Recital• Shakespeare • Solo Verse Speaking• Speech and Drama • Spoken EnglishHaving spent his entire life in thebusiness, Derren’s passion foracting and performing shinesthrough, and his contribution toNew Era Academy, which is fullyaccredited by Ofqual – the Officeof Qualifications and ExaminationsRegulation – has made a hugedifference for those students whowant to go on to bigger and brighterthings. Qualifications gained arealso now included in the UCAStariff system, so whether a studentdreams of a life in the limelight oraspires to be a lawyer, a certificatefrom New Era Academy can equipthem with the confidence and skillsthey need to succeed.Stewart’s Watches and Jewellery, located at3 Allandale Road, is open Tuesday to Saturdayfrom 10am until 5:30pm. Appointments areavailable outside of these times if required.www.neweraacademy.co.uk01903 246790 | exams@neweraacademy.co.ukFor more information, please call0116 2705635 or visitwww.stewartswatches.co.uk20 ASPIREASPIRE 21

Creative Image PhotographyMartin DalbyCREATIVE IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHYCapturing The Moments That MatterAs an everlasting memento of the biggest dayof your life, your wedding photography is oneof the most important investments you willever make. Ensuring that the most preciousmoments of your big day are captured in aunique way and to perfection, Creative ImagePhotography specialise in wedding photographyto suit every budget.Award-winning photographer, Terry Wrettom,of Northampton, established Creative ImagePhotography in 1988 and is still as passionatetoday as he was on his very first weddingshoot, as he explains: “I’ve always beeninterested in photography, even as a child,but it was entirely by accident that I foundmy way into wedding photography. At the timeI was a member of a camera club and was askedto photograph a wedding; I got such an amazingadrenaline rush from the experience that I’venever looked back. Every wedding is entirelydifferent and it’s such a wonderful job – Iabsolutely love it.”As Northamptonshire’s only Craftsman of theSociety of Wedding and Portrait Photographers(CrSWPP), Terry’s work is of an extremely highcalibre, which is all down to his naturalflair for photography and the experiences hehas enjoyed along the way. Terry says: “In2002, I won a photography competition runby Fuji in connection with the now defunctGuild of Wedding Photographers, which wasan extremely proud moment. I was flownout to Las Vegas on an all expenses paidtrip to Wedding and Portrait PhotographersInternational, which is a four-day conventionfeaturing the top photographers from aroundthe world. It was a fantastic experience; Imet all of the best photographers and pickedup some great ideas which I still use today.The competition involved submitting the workfrom four complete weddings, as well as thenegatives, and I was assessed on everythingfrom composition to exposure. I was thrilledto be selected out of hundreds of applicantsand it proved to be a lovely experience. I’malso proud to have had my work featured innumerous national wedding magazines, includingBliss For Brides.”Ensuring that everyone, no matter what theirwedding budget, can afford Terry’s expertisehe offers packages that are tailored to eachcouple, he says: “My photography packages arewide ranging and cover everything from justa registry ceremony to the full package ofalbums, discs and DVD, so there’s certainlysomething to suit everyone.”From his Northampton base, Terry works largelywithin the East Midlands, however, couplesfrom further afield are so bowled over by hiswork that he’s even been flown out to NorthernIreland and Scotland in order to capture thismilestone celebration of couples from aroundthat UK.Recognising that every happy couple wants tomake sure the photographer they choose is theright one, Terry devotes a lot of time tothe consultation process, as he explains: “Ibelieve it’s important to offer every couplea personalised experience, which is why theywill only deal with me. Usually, couples willvisit me to look through albums of my previouswork and to discuss the sort of photographystyle they are interested in, then two weeksbefore the big day we will meet again tocheck dates, times and details to ensure thateverything runs smoothly. I always work on afirst name basis with all of my clients andgenerally I will wear a dinner suit to everyjob so I fit in perfectly with the style ofthe wedding. I’m also experienced enough to beprepared for every eventuality and as I onlywork on one wedding per day, every couple isguaranteed my undivided attention.”When asked why couples around the UK shouldopt for his expertise on their big day, Terrysays: “I think my style stands apart and Ibelieve that photography isn’t something thatyou can teach, I really think it’s a skillthat’s inbuilt; I would always recommendmaking a decision based on more than justthe price and to always book a professionalphotographer who is a member of SWPP becauseafter the wedding is over the photographsare the memento that you will keep forever.Usually, the photographer works out as beingaround 7% to 10% of the total wedding cost,which I believe is a reasonable price topay for something that you’re going to keepforever.”To see more of Terry’s outstanding work, visit www.creativeimagephotography.co.uk01604 677544 | 07748 56137922 ASPIREASPIRE 23

Martin DalbyThe Light SecretsBorn in 1942 in Aberdeen, Martin Dalby is an experienced and knowledgeablemusician and composer. He’s worked with numerous well-known musicians duringhis long and successful career and has even had his music performed at The Promson four occasions.Martin was educated at Aberdeen Grammar School and in 1960 won a FoundationScholarship to the Royal College of Music in London where he studied compositionwith Herbert Howells and viola with Frederick Riddle. In 1963 the Octavia Prizeand a Sir James Caird Travelling Scholarship enabled him to spend two years inItaly where besides composing he played the viola with a small Italian ChamberOrchestra. With this orchestra he toured widely in Europe and North Africa.In 1965, Martin was appointed as a music producer to the BBC’s newly formedMusic Programme (later to be Radio 3.) In 1971 he became the Cramb ResearchFellow in Composition at the University of Glasgow and in 1972 returned to theBBC as Head of Music, Scotland where he began the development of the publicprofile of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, both in Great Britain and abroad,which increases as time goes on. In 1991 he relinquished this post in order topursue a more creative role in BBC Scotland. A result of this was the production,amongst other things, of BBC Scotland’s massive radio history, Scotland’s Music.He won a Sony Gold Award for it. In 1993 Dalby retired from the BBC and nowcomposes full time.Martin has written a large amount of music: for orchestra, for chorus, for brass andwind bands, for the Church, for film, radio and television, many songs and songcycles, and chamber music ranging from duos and trios to octets and nonets.Most of it has been commissioned: from festivals such as Edinburgh, Cheltenham,Cardiff, Orkney and Peterborough, or from orchestras and ensembles. It has beenperformed widely throughout the world, notably at such festivals as the WarsawAutumn and the Henry Wood Proms in London, for which in 1991 he wrote‘The Mary Bean’ for the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. This was his fourthperformance at the Proms. The inspiration for what Martin has described as this‘quite big concert overture’ has — as so often with Dalby — a literary source, in thiscase David Thomson’s book ‘The People of the Sea’, with its references to the Maryor Molucca bean, which is carried by the Gulf Stream from Caribbean shores tothose of Shetland, Orkney and the Western Isles of Scotland.‘The Mary Bean’• Dedication - a “bean” of fortune for the Royal Scottish National Orchestra in its100th year.•Commission BBC Proms - first performance RSNO conducted by Sir AlexanderGibson at the Royal Albert Hall on 17th August 1991• Duration - about 16 or 17 minutes“Though the recapitulation and coda bring back the vigorous sweep of the openingsection, the overall mood of the piece, declares Dalby, is ‘benign and optimistic’.The scoring is for triple woodwind (including piccolo, cor anglais, bass clarinet anddouble bassoon), four horns, three trumpets, three trombones, tuba, harp, timpani,percussion (three players) and strings. The Mary Bean is dedicated to the RSNO.”© Copyright 1991, Conrad Wilson“As with a number of Dalby’s compositions there are references to older Scottishmusic — in this case Columban chant. But Dalby has never allowed theseinfluences to become overt. They take more the form of private and personalstimuli and messages, and it is this combination of private and public that givesmuch of his music an intriguingly restrained communicativeness as full of thoughtas much of Tippet’s music, with which the rich complexity and evanescent texturesof The Mary Bean have points of contact.” © Copyright 1992, John PurserIn 1964, whilst in Rome, Martin wrote ‘Laudate Dominum’. He dedicated it tothe pupils and staff of Aberdeen Grammar School where Dalby once was a pupil;‘Laudate Dominum’ was performed for the first time in the Music Hall, Aberdeenin May, 1965 by the pupils and staff of Aberdeen Grammar School. The words aredrawn from Psalm 150 and Jubilate Agno by Christopher Smart. It is scored forTenor soloist, SATB chorus and Organ or Orchestra.‘Laudate Dominum’• Duration - 9 minutes 30 secondsMartin has always concerned himself with the interests of his fellow composers.He helped in forming and running several chamber groups in Scotland. Hewas Chairman of the Composers’ Guild of Great Britain from 1995 to 1998and was a founding director of both the British Academy of Composers andSongwriters and British Music Rights. His membership of the BASCA ConcertExecutive Committee continued from its start until 2009. He was also Wardenof the Incorporated Society of Musicians’ Performers andComposers Section in 2001 and 2002. He retained hisinterest in the ISM as Convener of its South-West ScotlandCentre.RecognitionAspire are so impressed with Martin’s long and successfulcareer, we’ve selected him for an award for Services ofDistinction for Classical Music. On hearing the news ofthis award, Martin said: “They tell me I was one of over 40nominations for this award; wow, I won! I’ve won a numberof prizes in my time, but to be chosen from such a numberis indeed a distinction. It is an honour for me and deeplyhumbling.”Aspire Sales Executive, Emily Davison, nominated Martinfor this award; she said: “Martin has such a long andsuccessful career that it seemed only right to nominate himfor this prestigious award. I’m so pleased that our EditorClaire feels as I do that Martin is a worthy winner of ourServices of Distinction for Classical Music.”The award for Services of Distinction for Classical Musicisn’t the first accolade Aspire have given Martin; in the pastwe’ve awarded him with not one but two annual Certificates;a Bronze Certificate of Recognition 2010, which wasfollowed up with a Platinum Certificate of Recognition 2011.Martin Dalby23 Muirpark Way, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0DXTel: 01360 660427 Email: martindalby@btinternet.comWeb: www.impulse-music.co.uk/dalby24 ASPIREASPIRE 25

Antiques & CollectiblesFINEFURNITURE26 ASPIRETel: 02392 826 201Furniture repair &restorationHigh qualitycraftsmanshipWe also offer furniturerestoration coursesMonday afternoon3pm - 5pm andevening 7pm - 9pmTuesday and Thursdayevenings 7pm - 9pmInterest rates are currently at a record low, withno sign of any increases in the immediate future.If you’ve got money sitting in the bank, now’s thetime to withdraw it and invest it into somethingyou can enjoy; a tangible item that’s not only funfor you, but also an investment that should see asizeable return in the future.Specialising in antique guns, swords and militaria,Antique Arms & Armour is the brain child ofexperienced antique dealer, Alan S. Cook. Alan toldAspire how he got started: “I’ve been dealing inantique arms for over 26 years. It all started whenI began working fora well-known andrespected Londondealer named DW. Donald (Don). Iused to drive Donaround after he hada stroke and whenCelebrating The PastIt’s been well documented that having ahobby brings with it added benefits, as theyhelp to keep our minds healthy and happy.Hobbies come in all shapes and sizes, fromreading to painting, model making tocreative writing, but for some, their belovedhobby comes in the form of collecting.Stamp collecting is considered to be one ofthe world’s most popular hobbies and datesback as far as stamps themselves. After thePenny Black – Britain’s very first postagestamp – was introduced in 1840, stampcollecting became popular throughoutthe country and by 1860 had spreadacross the globe. Many stamps are nowcollected for their historical importance andgeographical aspects, but stamps featuringcertain images, such as those of birds, shipsor monarchs have also proved to be verypopular.Coin collecting is another hobby that hasproved to be popular throughout the ages.Whilst some collect coins as investmentpieces, many are drawn to coins from aparticular era or country purely for theirinterest in the history that surrounds themhe died in 1984, he left me his business,which I continued. The first of my manyvisits to Europe was to the arms fair atNeuchatel in Switzerland. I now travel toAmerica twice a year and make regulartrips to Belgium, Switzerland and Germany.I offer antique and collectible firearms,swords, knives, tribal art, general antiques,accessories and other militaria items fromacross the globe.”Alan travels across the world to source hisphenomenal array of antique guns, swords andmilitaria. Alan said: “I deal with all levels ofcollectors and sell items for all pockets, from theinexpensive to the rare and expensive. I haveitems in my range from England, America, Ireland,Germany, the Middle East and northern Africa toname a few. I visit auctions and buy from privatecollectors and in recent years I’ve noticed anupturn in the market; more and more people seemto be investing in collectibles rather than puttingtheir money in the bank – I had one customer whobought an English Long Gun instead of an ISA.”Alan is a member of the numerous bodies,including:Photo credit ©Britainonview /Daniel Bosworthor their artistic value. Error coins, featuringmistakes made during the minting process,are also very collectible because of theirInvest In The Past…rarity. In modern minting mistakes are veryrarely made, which is why the dateless 20pcoins that appeared in 2009 as the resultof a redesign proved to be highly soughtafter. One quick-thinking seller on auctionwebsite, eBay, even scooped £7,100 fortheir error coin, which was released intocirculation by the Royal Mint in Llantrisant,Wales.The differences between antiques andcollectibles are very clear; an antique isconsidered to be a valuable and collectibleitem whose beauty and age, rarity andunique features make it stand out amongstthe crowd. To be classed as an antique, anitem must be over 100-years-old, whilst theterm collectible is used to refer to thoseitems that are under 100-years-old, but areseen to be the antiques of the future.If you’re into antiques and collectibles,why not visit Newark & NottinghamshireShowground on either Thursday 18th orFriday 19th of August for the Newark IACFInternational Antique & Collectors Fair.For more info, visit www.iacf.co.uk/newark• A Freeman of the Cityof London• Liveryman of theWorshipful Company of Gunmakers• The Company of Arts Scholars, Dealers &Collectors• The Guild of Freemen of the City of LondonFinally Alan added: “For me, collecting is moreabout the history of an item, rather than the itemitself; I get a kick out of researching the itemshistory and finding out where it came from, whomade it and which battles/wars it was part of. Apersonal highlight was coming across an AmericanCivil War knife that looked like rubbish, but it hadbeen made on the battlefield from scrap wood andmetal. That’s fascinating to me.”For more information on the range of antique arms sold by Alan, please visit the Antique Arms & Armourwebsite at www.antiquearms.co.uk or email antiquearms@btinternet.comTHE SOCIETY FORTHE RAILWAY PHILATELISTThe Railway Philatelist Group is for all collectors whoseinterests include: railways on stamps,railways related postmarks, travelling postoffices and services such as railway parcel,railway letters and the railway telegraphy.We have postal auctions and packetcirculations. Railways Philately is ourprize-winning quarterly journal.For more information, look at our website:www.railwayphilatelicgroup.comor contact the RPG’s Secretary,Roy Hardiman on 0113 258 7923Aspire’s Certificate of Recognition for Antiques & RestorationAlbany AntiquesMy name is Thomas Winstanley. I joined the Household Cavalry in 1947, andhave been on horse parade in White Hall for about 3½ years. I have also been onState Parade, opening of parliament and the Queen’s birthday 3 or 4 times. I wasat Knightsbridge and a Royal Horse Guard and did a broadcast at BBC about theregiment to Finland the commentator was Oliver Kamala.It was out of the blue when I met Thomas Gascoigne at Marble Arch London. Webecame very good friends. He was an antique dealer of which I joined him about56 years ago. We worked together for a good many years until I got married, then Istarted my own antique business. Having done Bermondsey Market and PortobelloMarket, I have sold to Lady Ranfairly, Lady Caccier, Sir Ralph Richardson, ClaudiaCoberg and many others.For more information, please contact me on 01428 605528Albany Antiques, 8 - 10 London Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6AFAspire’s Certificate of Recognition for Quality & ServiceTHEMATICS Collecting stamps by themenew stock for 2011 | TELL ME YOUR SUBJECTSYou can choose to collect stamps on any theme and interpret the subjectas narrowly or widely as you wish. Animals, for instance, is a vastsubject - but pare that down to sheep and lambs and the number ofavailable issues narrows considerably, but oddly enough,can also set a greater challenge.Aircraft collecting is similarly varied. Many collectorsprefer World War motifs, some early pioneers and othersmodern civilian craft. Besides the flying machinesthemselves, lots of stamps depict early aviators, orairports.Other popular themes now include birds, the Royal Weddingand the forthcoming Diamond Jubilee, fairytales, musicalinstruments and Forests (2011 is the Year of Forests).Some collectors like new stamps, others prefer to collectused, postmarked stamps. You have total freedom to collectjust what you like - by your own rules.Call fRANK SPENCER on 01258 860081PO BOX 11, BLANDFORD FORUM, DORSET DT11 7YLJo Bennett Original Pictures offers a wide range of exciting work by some of the NorthWest’s leading artists. Salford-based painter Geoffrey Key, Yorkshire artist Susan Brownand Potteries-based Jiri Borsky each have an international appeal, while many others, likeJohn Thompson and Trevor Grimshaw have an unmistakable northern character.The range of styles is immense, from the more abstract landscapes of David Porter to thepopular animal painter, David C Lyons, whose paintings are admired around the world.Established in 1985 – our watchwords are ‘quality and individuality’. Contact us for detailsof our current stock. Then all you need do is choose!Jo Bennett Original Pictures Telephone: 0161 430 4960 Mobile: 07713618214Email: jo@jobennettoriginals.co.ukWeb: www.jobennettoriginals.co.ukMark GroetheAntique RestorationI have been working as an Antique Restorer for the last 25 years. I 'literally' builtthe workshop and set up my business from scratch in Banbury, Oxfordshire in 2003catering for the trade in the surrounding areas. At thesame time, I gradually started to build a solid reputationfor quality work which has meant 80% of my work isnow private.I cover all aspects of Restoration from classic carinteriors, carving, upholstery, staircases onsite and anybespoke customer requests. At the moment, I am makingbeautiful old kitchen tables using rustic reclaimed timberto any size required by the customer. Some have a nicepainted base and waxed top, others are simply polishedand waxed...whatever the customer wants.I spend all day, every day piecing history together so ifyou are interested give me all call and I'll restore it, fix itor make it for you on 07976 040238.YORKSHIRE COVERAUCTIONS10 Lombard Street, Halton, Leeds LS15 0LTTel: 0113 264 1845 Fax: 0113 294 6388Email: yca.leeds@ntlworld.comwww.yorkshirecovers.co.ukNEXT SALE: SEPTEMBER 2011We hold 3 auctions a year with all-worldpostal history £10 - £1000+If you do not currently receive our catalogue, why not ask tojoin our mailing list?ASPIRE 27

HolidaysA Green AndPleasant LandIt’s official – the British break is back. Over the last few years moreand more Brits have been swapping their annual foreign holiday for a break right here in dear ol’ Blightyand our green and pleasant land is proving to be just as popular during 2011. In fact, research fromebookers.com has revealed that a whopping 44% of us have planned a ‘stay-cation’ this year, compared tothe 24% who are jetting off on a long haul trip and the 12% who will go without a holiday at all.If you’re still undecided as to where to spend your annual break, Aspire has found one location in Englandthat boasts everything you could possibly need for a memorable and relaxing holiday. Whether you wantto unearth secrets from the past, splash some cash or soak up our beautiful country sights, you won’t finda better location than the Cotswolds for a quintessential English break.Get Out On FootAs England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, youwould be hard pressed to find anywhere more breathtakingthan the Cotswolds. An area of gently sloping hills androlling green fields, the Cotswolds are well-known for beingone of England’s most unspoilt areas and the best way toadmire it all is to get out on foot.Visitors to the south Cotswolds, and in particular the areaknown as the Stroud District, will find the contrast ofland heights an interesting challenge. The steep hills andsweeping valleys promise unrivalled photo opportunitiesand the wealth of fauna and flora to spot whilst you walkwill make it all the more rewarding. The Cotswolds Way, a102-mile trail which passes through the Stroud District, isone of the most popular walks and was recently designatedNational Trail status.Step Back In TimeSpanning many eras throughout the ages, the Cotswolds arethe ultimate destination for anyone who wants to discovera wealth of links to the past. It was the Neolithic people30 ASPIREwho first set up home in this charming area of England,drawn here by the fertile soil and defensive shape of theland. An ancient barrow, known as Hetty Pegler’s Tump, wasdiscovered here in the 17th Century and is thought to dateback to around 2800BC.Many other settlements have been discovered in theCotswolds over the centuries, including Neolithic burialgrounds and ancient Roman villages, but there are alsoplenty of sites and artefacts for those interested in ourmore recent history. The flowing streams and rivers of theCotswolds, and its abundance of sheep, led to the areabecoming a key player in the production of woollen clothduring the Industrial Revolution and more than 150 millsthat were used during the time have been identified overthe years.Shop Until You DropIf the sight of every city High Street with its identicalbrand names bores you then the Cotswolds promisesan alternative shopping experience. Lined with quirkyboutiques and unique independent shops, Stroud, inGloucestershire, is a refreshing change from the norm andThe ClothiersArmsThe Clothiers Arms is located just outside thetown of Stroud, if you are looking to have adelicious, hearty meal, this is the place for it.We offer a wide range of meals to suiteveryone from our bar menu and our 2 for£10 meal deals. Or try our restaurant menuwhich is served Wednesday - Saturdayevenings. It’s also family-friendly with a largebeer garden and children’s play area whichis very popular in the summertime.We have 7 B&B rooms which have beenrecently redecorated and are available atvery reasonable rates. They are perfect fora short or long stay and we are in an ideallocation for guests to explore the picturesquetown, as well as those who fancy a quickgetaway.We are located just a 10-minute walk fromthe train station. The friendly staff are alwayshere to greet you with a warm welcome!The Clothiers Arms, 1 Bath Road, Stroud,Gloucestershire GL5 3JJTel: 01453 763 801 Fax: 01453 757 161Email: reservations@clothiersarms.co.ukwww.clothiersarms.co.ukoffers a surprising and eclectic mixture of goodies to suitall tastes. Set to the spectacular backdrop of the Cotswolds’hills, a wander around this town, with its specialist fairy andfossil shops, will not be forgotten in a hurry.During the warmer months visitors can enjoy the addedtreat of street performers, who appear on Saturdaymornings to thrill and entertain with their exciting tricks andtalents.Find out more about the area’s charming sites and activitiesby logging onto www.visitthecotswolds.comBeautifulBonnyScotlandPhoto credit: ©BritainonviewHIGHLAND GAMESAT HOPETOUN HOUSE Sout Queensferry nr EdinburghSunday 28th August from 1pm - 5pm• Professional Heavy Events• Highland Dancing• Pipe Bands Brass• Falconry • Fly Casting• Clay Shooting • Archery• Trade Stands • CateringTelephone 0778 669 0607 for more informationBrue HighlandersNATURAL, PEDIGREE PRIMEHIGHLAND BEEFQMS Assured. Premium Health Accreditation.1/8, 1/4, 1/2 or whole carcase packs - fresh,cut, vacuum packed, labelled, freezer ready.Delivered to you UK wide.Tel: 01851 840 377Email: office@bruehighlanders.co.ukWeb: www.bruehighlanders.co.ukDespite its compact size, Scotland ishome to an array of attractions thatare sure to occupy every member ofthe family, no matter what their ageor taste. So, whether you’re searchingfor a family holiday destination withattractions to entertain all, a romanticcity for a weekend away with a lover,or just want to see some stunningscenery, Scotland is the place!Scotland has some of the finestbeaches in the world. They’re so variedwith white sands, secret coves, rockpools, and unpolluted clear waterscommon sights; you may even belucky enough to catch a glimpse ofseals basking on the rocks. MainlandScotland is surrounded by a myriadof island clusters: far north there’sthe Shetland isles, west there’s theInner and Outer Hebrides, and offthe northern coast there’s the OrkneyIslands. Each island boasts its ownunique charm but they all haveone thing in common: stunning,uncrowded beaches.As Scotland is home to a beautifulyet diverse landscape, it’s the perfectdestination for those wanting to enjoythe great outdoors. Whether you wantto take a relaxing stroll to enjoy thestunning views or need an adrenalinerush, there’s an outdoor pursuit foryou. From fishing and golf to mountainbiking and white-water canoeing, thegreat Scottish outdoors has somethingfor everyone.WildhavenCottageOne-bedroom cottage attached to ownershouse on smallholding with free-rangepoultry. The location is a very peacefulcountry area with walks, wildlife andfantastic views right on the doorstep.Inverness 10 minutes. Dogs welcome.Short breaks available.Spotlight In ScotlandWith so much on offer in this charmingyet compact country, you’ll benefitfrom somewhere warm, welcomingand relaxing to rest your head after allthat exploration. Scotland is home toan array of holiday accommodation,from loch-side cabins to cosmopolitanhotels in the big cities, and fromhistoric cottages with roaringfires to farmhouses with the mostbreathtaking views – whateveraccommodation solution you’re inneed of, you’ll find it in Scotland.Scotland isn’t only known for its naturalbeauty; it also produces some of thefinest food and drink within the BritishIsles. Macbeth’s is one of those rareplaces these days where provenance iskey. They rear their beef on their ownfarm helping ensure the quality andconsistency that they have becomewell known for. The cattle come fromtraditional Scottish breeds and themeat is hung for a minimum of threeweeks. They also extend this policyto their pork and lamb by single farmsourcing local free range rare breedpigs and hill lamb. Wild venison andgame is also on offer as well as theirdelicious range of homemade blackpudding, haggis, sausages and burgers.So, what are youwaiting for? If you want tohead north of the border to bonnyScotland, visitwww.visitscotland.com for more info.T: 01808 521369 E: mairidj@tiscali.co.uk W: www.gaelholidayhomes.co.ukWildhaven | Inverarnie | Farr | Inverness-shire | IV2 6XHDiscover ScotlandSelf-Catering Holiday HomesFor a colour brochure or todiscuss our services call01556 504030A local agency offering high qualityholiday cottages and housesin Dumfries and Galloway andthroughout Scotland. New housesalways welcomed.To see all our properties visit www.discoverscotland.netASPIRE 31

C o o lCollectiblesDespite not being commonplace in 21st Century kitchens, pie funnels werea popular sight in Victorian kitchens. Pie funnels were designed to preventpie juices spilling onto the pastry or oven, and to support the crust and stopit from sagging. Since the Victorian era, they’ve become collectors’ items.One keen collector of pie funnels,June Tyler, has taken her love ofthese unique items and created acomprehensive book detailing the life’swork of Stuart Bass, an experiencedand well-known master potter fromSouth Molton.June said: “After collecting Stuart’spie funnels for 15 years, and neverfinding anything written about himin art/pottery books, I decided it wastime his achievements were writtendown, for future generations to enjoy.Stuart has created hundreds of ornatepie funnels over the last 35 years,mainly for the American market, so Ithought it would be nice for him, andfans of his work, to have a colourfulreference book. I got in contact withthe Pie Bird Collectors Club (pie birdis the American term for a pie funnel)and asked if the members could sendme images of the items within theircollection; they did and the rest, asthey say, is history.”June’s book, entitled ‘CollectingStuart Bass Pie Funnels’, not onlycontains more than 400 photos of hispie funnels, it also contains a shortbiography of Stuart and his potteries.June said: “I first met Stuart about11 years ago through a mutual friend.I used to buy his funnels for my owncollection through this friend; whenshe died I decided to send Stuart acopy of the catalogue I’d started ofmy collection of his pie funnels. Heloved it and invited me to see him inhis studio and we’ve remained friendsever since.”As well as traditional pie funnels,over the years, Stuart’s designs havefeatured animals, birds, clowns,nursery rhyme and folklore characters,and monks and choirboys. June said:“As this is a comprehensive guide toStuart’s designs, there are some rarepie funnels featured in here, including‘Sur la Table’, which was made fora retail cookware store – very fewwere made so that’s a pretty rarefind. Stuart has made many designsthat I love, but one of my favouritesis featured on page 75 of my book:the mermaid. I think she’s lovely!Unfortunately there are about 30designs featured within the book thataren’t part of my collection; throughthe contacts I gained from the PieBird Collectors Club, I managed toget images of pieces even I don’thave. There are still some designsmissing from the book. Stuartcannot remember each design, butunfortunately, when he moved housein 2007 he destroyed all the wornmoulds, so we have no way of tracingsome of his designs, which is a shame.”Now semi-retired, Stuart continues tolive in South Molton and still producesa small number of pie funnels.He has kindly provided a Forewordfor June’s book. All photography wastaken by top cookery and gardeningphotographer, Mark Winwood.June added: “Stuart’s pie funnels arestill available to buy at a number ofantique fairs and via eBay, retailing forabout £25, although the rarer ones cango for much more. If anyone has anypie funnels to sell, I’m always on thelook out to increase my collection.”June’s book ‘Collecting Stuart BassPie Funnels’ is available to buy fromEbay, Amazon.co.uk and AbeBooks.com, as well as from most book shops,using ISBN: 9780956597601 and ispriced at £18.50 plus £3.50 p&p.For more information or to buy direct from June, please call01329 832632 or email junetyler35@btinternet.com