Stratford-upon-Avon Living Jul - Aug 2021

An electrifying drive. 

With Porsche Centre Solihull. 

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0121 745 9911 

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www.porschesolihull.co.uk 

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Contents 

A Note 

from the EDITOR 

15 

Amazing 

A Culinary Journey through 

slow cooker recipes 

Northern Ireland 

Isn’t it funny how quickly we can go 

from loving the hot weather to doing 

a rain dance - is there anything more 

British? Day one sees us calling every 

available neighbour into the garden 

for a BBQ, making sangria and filling 

up the paddling pool...but by day 

three we are complaining about not 

sleeping in the heat, getting sunburnt 

and worrying about the grass dying 

under said pool. At least the garden is 

looking pretty happy though... 

...and speaking of, we are a nation of 

garden fanatics - never more-so than 

when our patches of earth became 

our social spaces, home gym or just 

general respite from our four walls. 

The amazing 

competition page 

04 

With that in mind, we’ve got a 

wonderful garden feature to help 

inspire you - and to show that no 

space is beyond help! This plot really 

was an eyesore and a challenge given 

its slope and poor access, but the 

owners have made something rather 

special and given us some tips into 

how they did it. 

Time to refresh 

your interior 

17 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie.thomson@minervapublications.co.uk 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre-Press Manager Kate O’Connell 

Contributors Rebecca Rose, Peter Thomson, Sue Cooke, Matthew Biggs 

Angela Cave. Front cover courtesy of Kait Barker for Slow Victories by Katrina Meynink 

Key Account Manager Marion Cassidy 

e marion@minervapublications.co.uk 

d/l 01225 984502 

twitter: @LivingStratford 

19 

An incredible 

garden glow up 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS HQ 

Paxcroft Farm, Hilperton 

Trowbridge BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

visit our website www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by failure of an 

advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions and 

misprints. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission from the 

publishers. The opinions expressed within are not necessarily those of the publishers. 

On the foodie front we have some 

amazing recipes from a book all 

about the humble slow cooker. Once 

consigned as a product of a 70s Good 

Housekeeping cookbook, the slow 

cooker has had an image reinvention 

in recent years - especially because 

its low-cost and minimal fuss cooking 

appeals to the modern, time-strapped 

family cook. They’re as beautiful as 

they are tasty, so we hope you enjoy 

digging in. 

Finally, we are bringing back our very 

popular competition page - this issue 

it has over £1,500 worth of prizes! You 

can enter all the ones listed on the 

page, plus some web-exclusives at 

minervamagazines.co.uk - you can 

also opt into being the first to hear 

about new giveaways when they are 

launched. 

We are looking forward to seeing you 

again in September - hopefully after a 

long hot summer - we will be shining 

our shoes ready for a new school year 

and celebrating the best of autumn’s 

amazing produce. 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

COMPETITION 

Time 

WIN 

A cashmere 

lounge wear 

set worth 

£500! 

To enter any (or all!) of our competitions, head to 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions. 

Find the competition and enter on that post, 

using the appropriate keyword. 

T&C’s apply and no cash alternatives available. Winners chosen at 

random - entries made after closing date will not be accepted. 

Look good, feel good and do good. Loop Cashmere is 

dedicated to bringing you feelings of luxury, comfort and 

unparalleled quality with its capsule collection of exclusively 

and sustainably sourced styles. Loop Cashmere is offering 

one lucky person the chance to win a cashmere hoody and 

jogger set from its new SS21 range in ‘midnight’. 

This luxurious outfit is perfect for downtime at home, thrown 

on after a workout, or to embrace weekend athleisure style. 

It will not only keep you cosy but will last you a lifetime as 

Loop Cashmere products are made from the highest quality, 

sustainable cashmere. 

loopcashmere.co.uk 

Closes 05/09/2021 - Competition keyword ‘LOOP’ 

WIN 

3 x £85 

Berkshire 

Gin sets to be 

won 

Berkshire Botanical is an 

artisan spirits collection from 

West Berkshire, which takes its 

inspiration for the local flaura 

and fauna. 

The range boasts an Original 

Dry Gin, as well as delicious 

fruity flavours including 

Rhubarb & Raspberry and 

Honey and Orange Blossom 

which are perfect for 

summer. 

They’re offering three lucky 

winners the chance to try out 

the range with a fantastic gin 

bundle worth £85. 

berkshirebotanical.co.uk 

Closes 05/09/2021 - 

Competition keyword ‘BOTANICAL’ 

From the hero 100% natural multi-use 

Original Nipple Balm which can be 

used as a ultra-thick and long lasting 

lip balm, cuticle cream, brow balm 

and more, to the newly launched BFF 

Balm for all over hydration for the face, 

hands, body & delicate areas, your 

summer skincare needs are taken 

care of with Dr.Lipp! Additive free, 

fragrance free, and of course not 

tested on animals! Simplify your life 

with Dr.Lipp! 

One lucky winner can 

get their hands on 

this amazing bundle 

worth over £250! 

drlipp.com 

Closes 05/09/2021 - 

Competition keyword 

‘LIPP’ 

WIN 

Dr. Lipp 

bundle 

worth over 

£250! 

FIYAH is a 

female-lead, 

online family 

jewellery 

business. 

WIN 

2 x £125 

vouchers to 

spend on 

jewellery online 

with FIYAH! 

The forms 

of their beautiful 

sterling silver and 

gold jewellery takes 

influence from the 

natural world and 

seeks to emphasise 

the human experience 

and connection between 

people – knowing how significant 

and personal jewellery is to the 

wearer. They minimise their impact 

on the planet by only using sustainable 

manufacturing practices and recycled 

materials where they can. 

Two lucky winners will have the chance to win a £125 

voucher to spend online! fiyah.com 

Closes 05/09/2021 - Competition keyword ‘FIYAH’ 

Zoflora, the UK’s number one Concentrated Multipurpose 

Disinfectant, has been keeping homes hygienically clean 

and beautifully fragrant for almost 100 years. To help bring a 

little magic into your cleaning routine, we’re giving four lucky 

readers the chance to win a year’s supply of Zoflora! 

With over 30 fruity, floral and fresh perfumer 

developed fragrances to choose from, there’s a 

scent to suit every room and mood, whether 

you spray it, soak it, wipe it or mop it! 

T’c and C’s: The prize is a year’s supply of 

Zoflora, for 4 winners. zoflora.co.uk 

Closes 05/09/2021 - Competition keyword ‘ZOFLORA’ 

WIN 

A year’s 

supply of 

Zoflora! 

Win a pair of 

unisex, vintage 

Christian Dior 

sunglasses worth 

£99 

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

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TONIQ On Demand 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

We caught up with personal trainer Arron Collins-Thomas to find out about his new 

online fitness offering, expanded from his very successful gym TONIQ... 

Your gym, with its fully-rounded approach to health and 

lifestyle, has made national news for its incredible client 

results – what will the app offer? 

At TONIQ we recognise that good health is more than just 

regular workouts, it encompasses taking care of every aspect 

of your body. We have created a solution where everything from 

nutrition, mindfulness, amazing workouts, yoga and more is 

available with guidance from fantastic trainers and experts in 

one place. 

Not only this, but as part of TOD you have access to your own 

coach, ensuring that you have someone you can speak to, to 

keep you on track and accountable as well as supporting you 

throughout. 

We have had some incredible results over the past few years at 

TONIQ and we want to be able to bring those results to more 

people. With the app we aim to give anyone, anywhere in the 

world, a taste of the TONIQ-life. 

As a TONIQ On Demand member you get to join the incredible 

community online, have access to our on demand workouts as 

well as live workouts, Q&As and educational talks. We have an 

incredible coaching team with a huge array of skills to bring to 

you including yoga, qigong, nutrition and mindfulness. 

The main workouts are written based on what we are up to at 

TONIQ in any given training block and a new phase of workouts 

launches every 6 weeks on the app as well as regular bonus 

content to keep the training varied and inspiring. 

Can you get a good experience with online coaching? 

Are you accountable and is it personalised? 

With TOD you have a designated TONIQ coach who you speak 

to on a one to one basis. When you first sign up with us you 

will have a call to help you set up your accountability sheets, 

help you curate your workout schedule and set you on the 

right nutrition plan for you. Then every month you get another 

call with your coach to help keep you on track and answer any 

questions you may have. Accountability is key if you really want 

to get results and that is one of the reasons why TONIQ has 

been so successful. 

Are the classes accessible no matter your fitness level? 

Some of us are self-conscious about going to the gym or 

nervous in COVID times. 

No matter what your levels of fitness we can help you. Our 

expert coach will advise what level to start at for you and 

how hard to push yourself in the first consultation you have 

with them. It will be based around your fitness and any health 

concerns, so you can feel secure in the fact that you won’t be 

over training or causing yourself any harm by taking part in our 

programs. 

For people who aren’t ready for the gym again yet or who are 

self conscious TONIQ On Demand is the perfect choice. You get 

personal trainer support and expert written workouts, all from 

the comfort of your own home. 

You also get to join a great online community who share their 

experiences and help support each other to get the results they 

desire. 

TONIQ ON DEMAND 

MORE THAN A WORKOUT 

Join our community from anywhere, at anytime with 

TONIQ on Demand, our app gives you access to: 

Personalised plans developed with expert coaches. 

Nutrition plans based on your needs and goals. 

Monthly 121 check in calls with an expert coach. 

Extensive library of classes including SWEAT, STRONGER, 

BURN and CHILL. 

Visit TONIQLIFE.COM to find out more

NOW OPEN 

NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 

133-135 NEW JOHN ST 

ASTON BIRMINGHAM 

B6 4LD 

To book your appointment please call: 

0121 359 6500 

CAVANI.CO.UK

Learning through play 

Katie Paynter - discusses 

the value of play in the 

development of children 

Nothing is as natural as a child at play. It is a 

cherished part of childhood. It is important 

to recognise that it is difficult to give a single 

definition of play. It can be defined as ‘what 

children and young people do when they 

follow their own ideas and interests, in their 

own way, and for their own reasons.’ Play 

has also frequently been described as ‘what 

children and young people do when they are 

not being told what to do by adults’. 

Regardless of definition, the importance 

of play cannot be underestimated. It is 

undeniably instrumental in children’s learning 

and development and is particularly integral 

in a child’s early years, given it indubitably 

supports their foundational social, emotional 

and cognitive growth. 

Anyone spending any time with young 

children will understand that providing them 

with opportunities for play provides so much 

more than a few minutes or hours of ‘fun’. 

Many instrumental skills are developed. It 

develops communication and language skills 

and vocabulary, an understanding of emotion 

and empathy, social skills and creativity. It 

also supports and strengthens co-operation, 

collaboration, sharing and problem solving. 

Children will observe those around them 

and mimic language and behaviour. It 

teaches self-expression, nurtures a sense of 

imagination and simultaneously gives children 

a feeling of adventure. 

Dramatic play is absolutely essential to a 

child’s social and emotional development and 

can enhance their physical development too. 

It is also very closely connected to intellectual 

development. This is when children make 

sense of the world in which they live by 

acting out situations before they experience 

them and by mimicking what they witness 

around them. Most children are innately 

imaginative and will happily chat away to 

someone on their toy telephone or pretend 

to travel to hospital in an ambulance made 

from a cardboard box! This creativity must be 

actively fostered! 

Encouraging young children to embrace 

physically active play is extremely beneficial 

and necessary for their development. It 

helps them to learn about the ever-changing 

environment and gives them the opportunity 

to use their whole body and develop their 

gross motor skills. It can meet their multisensory 

needs and will promote significant 

health and well-being benefits. Whether it 

is messy play, creative or role play, it is an 

essential part of learning. 

Play provides a platform through which 

children are not only able to learn about the 

world around them through interacting with it, 

but it also gives them the opportunity to learn 

about themselves. As play is fun, children’s 

focus tends to be over a sustained period. In 

turn, this helps children to develop the ability 

to concentrate. It is important as parents not 

to push your child too hard. Children develop 

in their own ways and in their own time and, 

rest assured, their levels of focus will steadily 

augment. 

It is imperative that children are given the 

time ‘to be children’ and being able to play 

is essential, if the aforementioned physical, 

social, emotional and cognitive skills are to be 

securely embedded. 

Katie Paynter, head of pre-prep and EYFS at 

Lochinver House School and IAPS pre-prep 

and EY adviser 


GIVE YOURSELF 

A NEW FOCUS 

Enrol on a part-time 

course for adult learners 

STARTING FROM SEPTEMBER 2021, 

OUR COURSES WILL ALLOW YOU TO: 

• Learn new and develop existing skills 

• Discover a new hobby or creative outlet 

• Add to your CV 

• Improve your career prospects 

CHOOSE FROM HUNDREDS OF COURSES 

IN A WIDE RANGE OF SUBJECTS: 

• Animal Welfare 

• Art, Design & Crafts 

• Accounting (AAT) 

• Blacksmithing 

• Construction 

• Counselling 

• Engineering 

• ESOL 

• Floristry 

• GCSE & Functional 

Skills 

• Hair, Barbering 

& Beauty 

• Health & Wellbeing 

• Hospitality & Catering 

• Human Resources 

(CIPD) 

• IT 

• Languages 

• Marketing (CIM) 

• Motor Vehicle 

• Multimedia & Video 

• Personal Trainer 

• Teaching & Learning 

• Plus much more! 

ENROL NOW 

Search for courses and sign up online at: 

wcg.ac.uk/adultlearning or call 0300 456 0049


Enrol on a part-time course 

for adult learners 

Give yourself a new focus by learning a new skill at 

your local WCG (Warwickshire College Group) College, 

based in Royal Leamington Spa, Rugby, Warwick and 

Moreton Morrell... 

From part-time leisure courses to 

professional qualifications, there is 

something for all adult learners to enjoy 

this September. WCG knows that their 

range of lifelong learning programmes are 

essential to strengthening communities 

and making sure that local people can 

succeed in their personal goals and 

career aspirations. 

There are a wide variety of adult parttime 

subjects on offer across all WCG 

Colleges, including: 

· Animal Welfare 

· Art, Design & Crafts 

· Accounting (AAT) 

· Blacksmithing 

· Construction 

· Counselling 

· Engineering 

· ESOL 

· Floristry 

· GCSE & Functional Skills 

· Hair, Barbering & Beauty 

· Health & Wellbeing 

· Hospitality & Catering 

· Human Resources (CIPD) 

· IT 

· Languages 

· Marketing (CIM) 

· Motor Vehicle 

· Multimedia & Video 

· Personal Trainer 

· Teaching & Learning 

· Plus much more! 

All course delivery is currently adhering 

to strict COVID-19 guidance and could 

include both face-to-face and remote 

delivery elements. 

Don’t forget, WCG also has over 50 short 

courses available to study now from the 

comfort of your own home. Subjects 

include: Writing; Nutrition; Animal Health 

Care and much more! 

Visit wcg.ac.uk/distancelearning 

For more information on how to enrol 

on an adult part-time course at a WCG 

college, visit wcg.ac.uk/adultlearning or 

call 0300 456 0049 


Stratford is 

BACK IN 

BUSINESS 

With restrictions finally easing, we’re finally able to get back out 

into our high streets and communities. Covid-19 has affected 

everyone’s lives in a variety of different ways, but small business 

owners have been hit especially hard during this period. 

With that in mind, we feature some of Stratford-upon-Avon’s 

finest independent businesses. Many of them aren’t quite out 

of the woods yet and they all need our support in the months 

ahead if they’re to return to profitability and rebuild 

post-lockdown. So get out there and start spending, 

Stratford! 

BEYOND BIRTH COUNSELLING 

Rosemary Harris: RN RM BSc (Hons) Midwifery Practice 

MSC Health Studies, Counselling and Psychotherapy level 4 

and Advanced Diploma in Counselling Oxbridge. 

I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist and midwife 

with experience in counselling for all life related events, 

anxieties, depression and relationship difficulties. My 

specialty is related to childbirth including birth experiences. 

• Would you like support to be able to explore and fulfil your 

potential in a non-judgemental, compassionate way? 

• Are you tired of being inhibited by depression and anxiety? 

• Are you tired of letting fear, anxiety and insecurities 

intrude on your life? 

I can help you unlock your potential for a purposeful life 

and having more meaningful relationships. An initial 

consultation either face to face or via Zoom, Skype, FaceTime 

for a telephone call where your needs are talked about 

and we decide together on the best way forward for your 

further sessions. All sessions are fully confidential and any 

professional notes made are kept on an encrypted computer. 

Tel: 07920 527415 

Email: rosieaharris@btinternet.com 

www.beyondbirthcounselling.co.uk 

ALSTERS KELLEY 

SOLICITORS OPENS FIFTH 

OFFICE WITH ACQUISITION 

OF BONELL & CO 

Coventry and Warwickshire solicitors 

Alsters Kelley recently announced the 

acquisition of Stratford-based Bonell & Co 

Solicitors, further extending its presence 

across the region as it brings its total 

number of offices to five... 

It is an exciting development for the Legal 500 firm which already 

operates in Coventry, Nuneaton, Leamington Spa and Southam 

and represents its first acquisition for 15 years. 

Bonell & Co, which is situated in Chestnut Walk, Stratford, has 

been established for over 30 years. It currently offers services in 

conveyancing and family law. 

The deal, which was conducted throughout the height of the 

COVID-19 pandemic, will allow the firm, which will become 

known as Alsters Kelley incorporating Bonell Co, to extend its 

range of services to the region*, whilst continuing to provide 

a high level of personal service for which it has always been 

renowned. 

Cathy Wahlberg, Managing Director at Alsters Kelley, said: “The 

acquisition of Bonell & Co marks the start of an exciting new 

chapter for both firms. 


“Bonell & Co boasts an impressive pedigree and has a highly 

talented and experienced workforce. It has an excellent reputation 

throughout the Stratford region and the acquisition seemed like 

the next natural step in Alsters Kelley’s own journey. It provides 

us with an excellent platform for growth and we look forward to 

developing the business in the years to come for the benefit of 

both the staff and our clients.” 

Both firms pride themselves on their friendly, approachable 

service combined with expert legal advice with Alsters Kelley 

operating on the mantra of being kind, helpful and excellent in the 

delivery of its service at all times. 

*Alsters Kelley’s range of services include Family (divorce, 

finances, children matters) , family care (adoption, care 

proceedings, abductions), private client (wills, powers of 

attorney, tax and trusts), conveyancing, personal injury, medical 

negligence, dispute resolution and criminal cases including 

motoring offences. 


Live theatre returns to 

the Royal Shakespeare 

Company in Stratfordupon-Avon 

Along with a host of family events... 

Live performances at the Royal Shakespeare Company are back. 

The Comedy of Errors runs between 13 July – 26 September 

in the Lydia & Manfred Gorvy Garden Theatre in Stratford-upon- 

Avon. This specially constructed outdoor performance space is 

located in the Swan Theatre Gardens, flanked by the River Avon 

and overlooked by the Swan Theatre. 

The production, directed by Phillip Breen, was due to be part 

of the RSC’s 2020 season, but was postponed owing to the 

COVID-19 pandemic Director. One of Shakespeare’s earliest 

and arguably funniest plays, The Comedy of Errors will now be 

reconceived for outdoor performances. Phillip’s previous RSC 

directorial credits include The Merry Wives of Windsor, The 

Provoked Wife and The Hypocrite. 

Talking about the production, Phillip said: “When we first 

conceived of this Comedy of Errors back in 2019, we had no idea 

that the production would welcome the RSC’s audience back 

from a global pandemic. But this play of family reunions - people 

finding each other once again, people holding each other at 

sunset - seems entirely apt for this moment, and we can’t wait to 

get back to work with this fabulous company of actors; with this 

old play on a new stage for this very new world. 

The 17-strong cast includes Jonathan Broadbent and Greg 

Haiste as, respectively, Dromio of Syracuse and Dromio of 

Visualisation of the Lydia & Manfred Gorvy Garden Theatre, 2021 

Ephesus, whilst Guy Lewis and Rowan Polonski play Antipholus 

of Syracuse and Antipholus of Ephesus. 

As Stratford-upon-Avon re-opens its doors to visitors and 

residents, the RSC will also be celebrating the arrival of Summer 

with a series of free pop-up events, interactive workshops and 

outdoor performances for families. These events will run for four 

weeks, running between Tuesday 27 July – Friday 20 August on 

the Bancroft Terrace and across the Garden Theatre. 

Visitors can brush up on their stand-up with a programme of fun, 

interactive sessions inspired by comedy and clowning, attend 

free musical performances and making-workshops led by RSC 

Costume Practitioners, and on Friday 20 August, celebrate the 

RSC’s costume making heritage with a Costume Day, featuring a 

series of free family-friendly activities taking place across 

the town. 

More information: rsc.org.uk, 01789 331111 


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Station Rd, Long Marston 

Stratford CV37 8RP 


SLOW & 

The slow cooker is having a bit of a 

revival, not least because it takes the time 

pressures of home-cooked meals off of 

family life and offers hands-free dishes 

which warm the heart and soul. 

Katrina Meynink is such an advocate of 

the process that she’s created a beautiful 

booked, filled with inspiration for each 

cooking mood. Here we have some tasters 

from her new book, Slow Victories. 

EGGPLANT CHREIME 

Steady 

This is a bit of a slow cooker riff on the 

traditional Tunisian braised fish dish of 

the same name. But instead, here I’ve 

cooked down eggplant in a harissaspiced 

ragu and added the umami 

heat of urfa biber (Turkish red pepper 

flakes; available from specialist grocers), 

served on top of hummus and finished 

with some cooling coconut yoghurt and 

herbs. This one gets better with age, so 

embrace the leftovers. Serves: 4 

INGREDIENTS 

1 tablespoon olive oil 

2 garlic cloves, finely sliced 

2 medium eggplants (aubergines), 

trimmed, quartered lengthways 

2 teaspoons cumin seeds, 

roughly crushed 

1 teaspoon coriander seeds, 

roughly crushed 

bunch of coriander (cilantro), roots 

trimmed, cleaned and chopped 

2 ox-heart tomatoes, chopped 

2 tablespoons tomato paste 

(concentrated purée) 

1 × 400 g (14 oz) tin chopped tomatoes 

1 tablespoon rose harissa 

1 heaped teaspoon urfa biber 

(Turkish red pepper flakes) 

1 tablespoon brown sugar 

To serve 

150 g (51/2 oz) hummus 

125 g (41/2 oz/½ cup) coconut yoghurt 

fronds from 2 dill sprigs 

chilli flakes, to taste 

METHOD 

Preheat the slow cooker for 15 minutes 

on high. Set the cooker to the sauté 

function and add the oil, garlic, eggplant, 

cumin and coriander seeds. Sauté until 

fragrant and the eggplant starts taking 

on some colour. Add the remaining 

ingredients, give it a gentle stir, then close 

the lid and cook on low for 8 hours. 

To serve, smear the hummus onto the base 

of serving plates. Gently scoop out the 

eggplant and place on top, then finish with 

the coconut yoghurt, dill and chilli flakes. 

Season with salt and pepper to taste. 

FREEKEH WITH KALE, 

CHILLI, YEAST & 

PEPITA SALAD 

I’m just going to say this up front: 

the nutritional yeast in this salad is 

a revelation. It truly adds the most 

phenomenal umami flavour, as well as 

being a superb seasoning mechanism. 

This salad has excellent holding power, 

so it’s always a good one for work 

lunches or those irksome bring-a-plate 

scenarios. Serves: 4 (as a side) 

INGREDIENTS 

200 g (7 oz/1 cup) whole freekeh, rinsed 

500 ml (17 fl oz/2 cups) vegetable stock 

50 g (13/4 oz/1 cup) nutritional yeast 

150 g (51/2 oz/1 cup) salted pepitas 

(pumpkin seeds), roughly chopped 

(see Note) 

125–185 ml (4–6 fl oz/½–3/4 cup) olive oil 

150 g (51/2 oz/2 cups) cavolo nero, 

finely sliced 

1 green chilli, finely sliced 

baby cavolo nero leaves, to garnish 

METHOD 

Heat your slow cooker on the low setting 

for at least 20 minutes. Add the freekeh 

and vegetable stock, give it a good stir, 

then cover and cook on low for 1 hour. 

Check it at the 45-minute mark and 

if there still seems to be quite a lot of 

stock, leave the lid off for the last 15–20 

minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork. (It 

should be cooked through, but al dente.) 

Turn out into a bowl and season 

generously with salt and pepper, then 

allow to cool. 

For the salad, add the nutritional yeast, 

pepitas and 125 ml (4 fl oz) of the oil to 

another bowl and stir to combine. If the 

mixture looks too dry, add more oil until 

it reaches a lose pestolike consistency. 

Add the cavolo nero and chilli and toss 

with your hands. Add the freekeh, season 

again with salt and pepper, and garnish 

with baby cavolo nero leaves, if using, 

then serve. If you need to revive this for 

another day, simply slice some more 

cavolo nero and toss it through. 

COOK’S NOTE 

Use unsalted pepitas if you prefer. You 

can even add these to a mortar and 


pestle and give them a rough grind; it 

works wonders. 

LAMB SHAWARMA 

I suggest doing this with a small leg 

of lamb as you get the best results 

by being able to lay the meat as flat 

as you can in the base of the slow 

cooker. This allows the braising 

liquid to come up the sides so that 

the glorious spicy crust can be 

maintained. Obviously, slow cooking 

a lamb leg is a far cry from roasting it 

on a rotisserie, but the spice-addled 

preparation is the same and the end 

result is freaking delicious. I love 

serving this as part of a spread with 

flatbreads, pomegranate, bundles of 

mint and tahini.This works best if you 

can prepare it ahead. The day before 

you want to serve it, rub the spices 

into the scored meat and rest it in 

the fridge overnight. You will need a 

large, shallow-base slow cooker for 

this recipe. Serves: 4-6 

INGREDIENTS 

2 teaspoons black peppercorns 

6 cloves 

1 star anise 

1 teaspoon cardamom seeds 

½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds 

1½ teaspoons fennel seeds 

1 tablespoon cumin seeds 

1 tablespoon coriander seeds 

½ tablespoon ground cinnamon 

1 teaspoon nutmeg 

1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika 

½ tablespoon sumac 

4 garlic cloves, crushed 

zest of 1 lemon 

1–1.2 kg (2 lb 3 oz–2 lb 10 oz) lamb 

leg, bone in 

1 litre (34 fl oz/4 cups) chicken or 

vegetable stock, or enough to come 

three-quarters of the way up the side 

of the lamb 

To serve 

tahini 

pomegranate arils 

finely sliced red onion (optional) 

flatbreads 

mint and coriander (cilantro) leaves 

METHOD 

Add the peppercorns, cloves, star 

anise and all the seeds to a frying 

pan and briefly dry-roast over a 

medium–high heat until the spices 

pop and become fragrant. 

You can also do this in your slow 

cooker if you have it nice and hot. 

Grind them in a spice grinder or using 

a mortar and pestle. Add to a bowl 

with all the remaining ingredients, 

except the lamb and stock, and stir 

to combine. 

Score the lamb leg in several spots. 

Rub the spices into the skin and top 

of the leg, then set aside to marinate 

for a minimum of 2 hours, but 

preferably overnight. 

Set your slow cooker to low. Add 

the lamb, then gently pour the stock 

into the bowl, being careful not to 

pour it over the top of the lamb; you 

want to keep as much of the spice 

mixture on the meat as possible to 

form a crust. Cover and cook for 10 

hours. Remove the lid for the last 30 

minutes of cooking. 

Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes 

before serving with tahini, 

pomegranate arils, red onion, if using, 

flatbreads and herbs. 

SPARKLING ROSÉ 

POACHED PEACHES 

The sweetness of white peaches at 

their peak and the pure pink fizz of 

this 

dessert really encapsulate late 

summer eating at its best. The 

peaches are 

delightful on their own or with a 

dollop of crème fraîche. Serves: 6 

INGREDIENTS 

500 ml (2 cups) sparkling rosé 

115 g (1 cup) caster sugar 

1 tablespoon rosewater 

1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste 

6 white peaches 

To serve 

organic rose petals 

3 tablespoons roughly crushed 

freezedried raspberries or 

strawberries 

METHOD 

Combine the rosé, sugar, rosewater 

and vanilla in the bowl of your slow 

cooker. Set to the sauté function 

and cook for 10 minutes, stirring to 

dissolve the sugar. Turn the heat to 

low, add the peaches and close the 

lid. Cook for 2½ hours. 

Allow to cool completely in the syrup. 

Gently remove the peaches and 

place in a large serving dish. Pour 

over the syrup, then scatter over 

the rose petals and the freeze-dried 

berries to serve. 

You can, of course, cut the peaches 

in half and remove the stones, but 

I like throwing the whole lot in for a 

more low-maintenance approach. 

The stones are so easily removed 

once the peaches have slow-cooked, 

and it stops the fruit from losing its 

shape as it cooks. 

Slow Victories by Katrina Meynink 

(Hardie Grant, £16.99) Photography 

©Kait Barker, Katrina Meynink 


Image from Fireclay 

Tiles x Jessica Davis 

Tiles can really reflect your personality, so you 

don’t need to go with trends, but they can 

be inspiring. This season sees a lean toward 

inviting, earthy tones and using floor tiles up to 

half height on the walls. Geometric tiles are still 

hugely popular, and lots of ranges are bringing 

out ceramic versions of en-caustic tiles for 

easier upkeep. 

Fascination kitchen by 

Mowlem & Co 

MIXING 

materials 

1 

4 

TILE 

style 

2 

3 

1 Kyoto Green Wall Tiles, £1.36 per tile 

(304x76mm), www.londontile.co.uk; 2 Kromatika 

Green Tile, £39.95 per sqm, 

www.tilemountain.co.uk; 3 Bella Craquele, 

£35.99, www.tilemountain.co.uk; 4 Priory 

Cross Encaustic Effect, £1.06 

per tile, www.londontile. 

co.uk 

Image from @studiomcgee 

1 

Image from @houselust 

MODERN 

rustic 

3 

2 

1 

INTERIOR 

refresh 

Trends not to be missed... 

1 Zuiver Dendron 

Side Table, £89, 

www.cuckooland. 

com; 2 Cushions from Modern 

Vintage Collection, www.hauslife.co.uk; 

3 Leather Foostool, £1839.50, www. 

darlingsofchelsea.co.uk; 

4 1950s Brass and 

Leather Magazine 

Holder Model 4019 by 

Carl Auböck, Austria, 

£1290.24, www. 

thekairoscollective.com 

This trend combines 

a focus on integrity 

of items (think antiques) 

alongside comfort. It’s a lived-in 

look that envelops - large convivial 

pieces of furniture, paired with lots of 

texture. Hardwood floors are key to 

this style, as is a strong architectural 

framework to the room. 

The colour palette for this look tends 

to be very neutral, focusing on a mix 

of taupes, whites, creams and beiges, 

intermixed with framing black and 

other earth tones, like terracotta and 

wood. Finally, small pops of colour can 

be added in soft furnishings. 

4 

Inventive mixes of different finishes 

have been really evident in lots of 

kitchens this year - choosing surfaces 

which age with a nice patina can also 

add to the depth of the space - think 

about brass and wood, or concrete 

with stainless steel. Natural textures 

should really shine through. 

3 

4 

2 

1 Sione Pendant, £45, 

www.cultfurniture.com; 

2 Raegan Dining Table, £1176, 

www.sweetpeaandwillow.com 

3 Whole Birch Kitchen Door, 

www.thelifeofply.co.uk; 

4 Cement Taupe Concrete 

Effect Tile, £18.95, 

www.wallsandfloors.co.uk 

Image from @amberinteriors 


AL FRESCO 

living 

Brits are a nation of garden lovers, this much is undeniable, but this 

last year and all its challenges have deepened our appreciation for 

our outdoor spaces. 

This issue we catch up with a remarkable transformation - the 

change in this edition was that of a derelict, unused and overgrown 

space on a steep slope, into a smart, tiered city garden. 

WORDS Katie Thomson 

PHOTOGRAPHY Kiera Williams Photography 


This is where 

we’ll put down roots 

Coming soon in August 2021 

to the peaceful village of 

Luddington, a stunning 

collection of 20 two, three and 

five-bedroom private homes. 

Surrounded by lush green space close to the banks of 

the River Avon, Bridle Meadows is set within attractive 

rural surroundings. Sympathetically designed to take 

advantage of its beautiful, natural setting, homes at 

Bridle Meadows off er idyllic views over the countryside, 

as well as ample space to live, work and entertain in 

comfort. 

bridlemeadows@cameronhomes.co.uk 

camerongalliers.co.uk 

BM Stratford Living Mag 165x240 ad 0621.indd 1 10/06/2021 17:19

o you have grand transformation plans 

for your garden but don’t know where to 

Dstart? We caught up with the owners of this 

amazing redesign, couple Daniel and Katherine, and 

found out their motivations for the change and how 

they went about the transformation on a budget. 

FIRSTLY, CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE 

GARDEN BEFORE AND WHY YOU DECIDED TO 

TAKE ON THE PROJECT? 

Like many people, we were desperate for some 

outside space - our flat had a small courtyard but 

we wanted somewhere we could entertain and 

somewhere for the dogs to enjoy. 

The details surrounding actually buying the land 

were a bit unusual - it was a plot backing on to the 

communal garden of our building and came up 

for sale from a previous owner. Despite the state it 

was in, we snapped it up, knowing we could make 

something special. 

THE BEFORE PHOTOS SHOW THE LEVEL 

OF WORK NEEDED - WHERE DID YOU EVEN 

START? 

We realised early on that we would need 

professionals in - not only was the site overgrown, 

it was steeply sloping and had a strange slab of 

hard-standing in the middle. We enlisted the help 

of a garden landscaper and together devised a 

plan to make a sociable space with lots of room for 

plants but also a big deck. The layout was in part 

influenced by formal Georgian planting - the garden 

backs onto a Regency-era building, so it felt right to 

nod to that heritage. 

First there was a lot of clearance work - an old 

stump had to come out and then years of brambles. 

Then it was on to a mix of excavating and filling the 

various layers. 

BEFORE 

The site also had literally tonnes of stones in it, so it 

made sense for us to use gabions, the metal cages, 

as our retaining walls. We had planned to buy more 

stones for facing them, but in the end we didn’t 

need to. 

We wanted the space to be pretty low 

maintenance, so the bottom section is a material 

called hoggin, which is a self-binding gravel (it’s 

mixed with cement). It creates an even, solid 

surface but it is also free draining, which was 

important as this was the lower section. It’s really 

good value for money too. 

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR PLANTING SCHEME? 

We were aware that we wanted this to be a good 

space for city creatures and insects - the planting 

included lots of pollinator-friendly plants to try and 

encourage them - in turn we have lots of birds which 

is lovely. We filled the raised bed, which was created 

with sleepers, with top soil and got to work planting 

a mix of plants - we have geraniums, cornflowers, 

sedums, geums, sweetpeas, alliums, violas, salvias, 

foxgloves, thistles and some Ravenswing cow 


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LANTERNS (ON TABLE, DECK AND 

FENCING) ALL LIGHTS4FUN.CO.UK 

parsley - there is also some interest for early spring with 

lots of daffodils, hellebores, muscari and tulips. 

Either side of the lawn, a more formal, framing effect is 

achieved using boxus - it’s literally instant impact and 

really helps enforce those tidy lines. 

Alongside the borders, we really wanted a tree in the 

mix too - so we ordered a lovely small silver birch from 

primrose.co.uk - it moves in the breeze so beautifully. 

We can pot it on as it grows and eventually plant it in 

the garden of a future home. 

THE DECK LOOKS AMAZING - IS IT A SUN TRAP? 

Absolutely! We were adamant that we wanted 

something low maintenance so we went for composite 

decking from a company called NeoTimber - in essence 

it has the natural look of wood to without the associated 

problems of cracking, splitting, warping and excessive 

maintenance requirements. It also had a 25 year 

residential warranty which was perfect for us as we can 

make the best of it now, but when we move it also gives 

the new owner peace of mind. 

We went for the Essential range which is hollow in the 

centre - it makes it really lightweight and by extension 

really easy to fit. It’s also crazily cost effective at 

£6.25 per linear metre! It has given the space such an 

elevated look. 

THAT FURNITURE IS AMAZING! 

We really lucked out with these! Good garden furniture 

is a little hard to come by at the moment, but as soon 

as we saw the Salone range from Moda Furnishings, 

we knew it was the right one. Its modern lines look 

perfect against the tumbled Bath stone walls and the 

configuration of this set was the perfect size for our 

space. 

Continuing on the low maintenance scheme, it was 

essential this was furniture that could stand up to the 

elements, not lease because we don’t have room inside 


SALONE GARDEN SOFA FROM 

MODAFURNISHINGS.CO.UK 

for the cushions. The frame is powered coated 

aluminium and comes with a 7 year guarantee 

and the cushions are what is called ‘hydrophobic’ 

meaning they repel water - they’re UV resistant 

too. We can leave it out all year - thought we have 

bought a cover to protect it for when it isn’t in use. 

The access for the site is also dreadful! But the 

delivery team made it look effortless and even did 

it with a smile - we were so impressed. 

HOW IS IT LIT? 

We don’t have a direct power source up there so 

lots of installed lights were an issue - so we opted 

for a mixture of options from lights4fun.co.uk - 

mostly their amazing solar-powered lights, which 

have a great output given their diminutive size! We 

also have some festoon lights from there - these 

come in connectable 5m lengths so it’s great to 

have options to make the right size for your space. 

WHAT’S NEXT? 

The craze for fire pits continues and we’d like to 

get our hands on one - we always intended it for 

the hoggin area in the bottom section with some 

more seating around it. That spot also tends to get 

the last of the afternoon rays. 

IMAGES: 

Cushions and throw: All from hauslife.co.uk 

Furniture: Salone Range from Moda Furnishings, 

modafurnishings.co.uk 

Decking: Essential Decking from NeoTimber, 

neotimber.com 

Lights: All from lights4fun.co.uk 

Plants: Primrose.co.uk 


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ADAPT YOUR HOME FOR SOMEONE WITH 

DEMENTIA The Key Changes to Make a Safer Space 

Maintaining independence is 

important for someone living with 

dementia, as is having a familiar 

living space. Whilst some people 

may move out of their home into 

residential care, some families are 

helping their loved ones remain at 

home. 

With small adaptations to their living 

space, it’s possible for someone with 

dementia to stay in their own home 

both safely and comfortably. Many local 

authorities have funding available to make 

minor adaptations to the home, and for 

those with more acute needs, there are 

also grants available to support with larger 

adjustments. 

Here are some of the key adaptations to 

consider for the home to ensure it’s a safe 

space for someone living with dementia. 

Kitchen 

If your loved one is in the mid to later 

stages dementia, they may need 

additional assistance and may even have 

a carer living with them. If this is the case, 

it’s unlikely they’ll be left unsupervised in 

the kitchen. However, in order to ensure 

the highest safety levels, it’s advisable to 

consider: 

26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

• Fitting cookers and any gas-supplied 

equipment with an automatic cut off 

• Ensuring all smoke detectors and 

carbon monoxide alarms are working 

• Removing any obstacles, such as rugs 

and mats, to avoid trips or falls 

• Clearing out the fridge regularly to 

remove out-of-date food 

• Storing cleaning products, irons, 

knives and sharp equipment in a locked 

cupboard or drawer 

Bathroom 

The bathroom can sometimes present 

challenges for those with limited mobility 

or cognitive challenges. Whilst your loved 

one may have a carer present to help with 

personal hygiene, it’s best to ensure the 

bathroom is a safe and easily navigable 

space: 

• Clearly marking the taps for hot and cold 

• Installing grab rails around the shower 

and toilet 

• Adding textured pads on surfaces which 

may get slippery 

• Removing the lock from the bathroom door 

• Locking away any medication, cleaning 

products, and sharp items 

Bedroom 

In order to ensure the bedroom is a 

calming space where your loved one can 

sleep safely, the following should be of use: 

• Avoiding electric blankets 

• Installing a night light in the bedroom, 

hallway, and bathroom to provide easy 

vision if they get up in the night 

• Making sure the room is a good 

temperature 

• Putting a clock next to the bed that 

indicates whether it is day or night to 

avoid confusion 

Living Room 

This is often where you spend most of 

your time relaxing, so to ensure the space 

is comfortable, familiar, yet safe, try: 

• Removing obstructions which can cause 

trips or falls 

• Ensuring the room is well lit 

• Having a clear path in and out of the 

room - especially if your loved one needs 

mobility aids 

Hallway and Stairs 

• Consider installing handrails up the stairs 

• Making sure the front and back doors 

are locked and car keys are locked away 

- particularly if your loved one is prone to 

wandering, 

• Removing any obstructions such as 

hallway tables or cables from phones 

If you require further information the 

Alzheimer’s Society have a support line 

0333 150 3456

Our approachable 

Family and 

Dispute 

Resolution teams 

are here to assist 

you with any 

of your family 

fallouts. 

For further 

information please contact us on: 

Escape 

Domestic 

Abuse 

Family Fallouts 

Family Fallouts 

Our approachable Family and Dispute Resolution teams are here to assist 

you with any of your family fallouts. 

If you need help with any of the following, please contact us! 

Family Law 

• Divorce/Civil Partnerships 

• Domestic Abuse 

• Child Arrangements 

• Cohabitation 

• Same Sex Marriages 

• Child Abduction 

• Grandparents 

Rights/Guardianship 

• Property and Financial 

Disputes 

• Pre-Nuptial Separation 

Agreements 

Family: James Rogers 

07517110039 or jrogers@blackhams.com 

Dispute Resolution: Annam Nasir 07517110038 

or anasir@blackhams.com 

Paralegal: Harkeert Kaur Samra on 0121 233 6916 For further or information please contact us on: 

hsamra@blackhams.com 

Family: James Rogers 07517110039 or 

jrogers@blackhams.com 

Dispute Resolution: Annam Nasir 07517110038 or 

anasir@blackhams.com 

Paralegal: Harkeert Kaur Samra on 0121 233 6916 or 

hsamra@blackhams.com 

If you need help with any of the following, 

please contact us! 

Dispute Resolution 

• Will Disputes 

• Abuse of an elderly relative 

• Inheritance disputes 

• Recovering money 

• Breakdown in a family 

agreement 

• Formalising family contracts 

and investments 

• Removing Trustees or 

Executors 

Find Us At: 

Blackhams Solicitors 

42a Poplar Road 

Solihull 

B91 3AB Find Us At: 

Blackhams Solicitors 

42a Poplar Road 

Solihull 

B91 3AB 


Our highly trained care home teams are specialists 

in residential, nursing, dementia and respite care, 

so whatever your needs and personal preferences, 

we’re here to help you and your family at every step 

of the journey. 

Ask us about our price match offer * 

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved 

one, call Gary Hulme to arrange a tour or one-toone 

chat on 01789 867540 or email 

gary.hulme@careuk.com 

Experts in award winning care. 

Trusted by over 6,500 families. 

Rated 

9.9 

out of 10 on 

carehome.co.uk 

Ambleside care home 

Evesham Rd, Dodwell, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9TG 

careuk.com/ambleside 

*Terms and conditions apply – speak to us or visit our website for more information.

Quality care in 

Stratford Upon Avon 

you can trust 


When a family is thinking about care 

for a loved one, they want the best - they 

want to know that the care home they 

choose will put their loved one’s safety, 

happiness and wellbeing first. 

Care UK’s Ambleside care home in Dodwell provides residential, 

dementia and nursing care, giving families peace of mind that 

their loved ones can stay living at the home should their needs 

change. 

Living at Ambleside is all about quality of life. Every colleague 

in the home is passionate about enabling residents to enjoy 

a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and 

preferences. The lifestyle team organises a huge variety of group 

and one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day. 

Often families are so caught up in the day-to-day care of their 

loved ones that the personal relationship they share can take a 

step back. Once their relative has settled into Ambleside they 

are able to focus on spending quality time with them again just 

enjoying each other’s company. 

With the extra support that our care home offers, new residents 

are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able 

to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even 

discovering new hobbies with our daily activities. 

Whether your loved one enjoys a quiet cup of tea in bed before 

starting the day, loves going for strolls in nature, or enjoys a chat 

over a beer, the team at Ambleside will spend time to enable 

them to continue living life the way they want to. 

Ambleside is part of award-winning provider, Care UK – one 

of the UK’s most successful care home operators* with over 

35 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to older 

people. 

Ambleside care home, Dodwell, CV37 9TG 

care.uk.com/ambleside 

Email: gary.hulme@careuk.com 

Tel: 01789 867540 

*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the 

Care Inspectorate in Scotland. 

Questions about 

living in a care home? 

Speak to our Trusted Advisor, Philip, today. 

At WCS Care we know moving into a care home is an 

emotional and difficult decision and there’s lots to think about. 

We’ve over 29 years’ experience of helping people to 

make the best decision for their next home, whether that’s 

a WCS Care home, or one outside our group that’s more 

suited to their needs. Our focus is on 

doing the right thing for you, not us. 

Call me today for an initial 

discussion about your needs. 

07802 728447 p.rainsford@wcs-care.co.uk 

wcs-care.co.uk 

/wcscare 

@WCS_Care 

Registered charity 

number 1012788 


Your local Bupa care homes 

in Stratford-upon-Avon 

Video 

tours available 

We are welcoming 

new residents 

Whether you need to find a local care home now, 

or are just starting to look into options, we can help. 

We’re welcoming new residents to join us for as long as 

they need – a few weeks, a month or a permanent stay. 

Call us for advice today 

01789 863 914 

Lines are open 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 12.30pm Saturday. 

Closed Sundays and bank holidays. Calls are charged at no more than local rate and 

count towards any inclusive minutes from mobiles. We may record or monitor our calls. 

Alveston Leys Care Home 

Nursing | Palliative | 

Residential | Short stay 

9.4 


Review Score 

49 reviews † 

Canning Court Care Home 

Dementia nursing | Dementia 

residential | Short stay 

9.5 


Review Score 

32 reviews † 

We make sure our teams always have personal protective equipment available and regular testing takes place. 

We also participate in available vaccine programmes and follow strict UK infection control standards. 

All types of funding welcome No health insurance needed 

†The Review Score is based on the quality and number of independent reviews this home has received on carehome.co.uk in the last two years, at the time of going to print. 

Q121285 MAY21 CS 02174 

3173_47786_Stratford Living advert_246x171mm(inc bleed)_CS 02174.indd 1 25/03/2021 15:01

Stratford-upon-Avon Living Jul - Aug 2021

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