Banbury Living Oct

YOUR FREE COPY OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2024 

Banbury 

FEATURING BRACKLEY, 

BICESTER AND CHIPPING 

NORTON 

living 

great autumn 

BAKES 

Comforting, organic 

recipes everyone will love 

WIN 

THE VAX SPOT 

WASH DUO, A 

LUXURY HAMPER, 

GIN BAR HIRE 

AND MORE 

glowing 

EMBERS 

Ushering in the cooler evenings around the fire 

down to 

EARTH 

Brown is the colour 

of the season 

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

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Saving Lives By Saving Time

18 22 

C O N T E N T S 

INTERIOR PREP FOR UPDATES GUESTS 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

JACK PERFECT STEIN AUTUMNAL INTERVIEW BAKES & RECIPE 

22 33 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Steve Davies 

e steve.davies@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984506 

Front cover courtesy of Firepitsuk.co.uk 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

42 27 

PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS 

LATER LIFE PLANNING 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

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. 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

Hello from a rather windswept 

and chilly editor, who is 

I had my first English 

finding this autumnal weather 

strawberry this week, and my 

word, 

a bit of 

it 

a 

was 

shock 

beyond 

to the 

delicious 

system. 

- perfectly sweet, it was a 

very 

I usually 

good 

love 

advert 

the 

for 

turning 

eating 

seasonally. of the seasons, I’ve tried but to I think echo 

this our in blink-and-you’ll-miss-it 

all my recent fruit vegetable summer has purchases, left us all and feeling it’s 

had a bit a short-changed! 

transformative effect on 

my cooking - everything just 

tastes This edition better is - a more beauty vibrant, - a 

needing real celebration less seasoning of autumn’s and 

just best, overall with a very little tasty. sneak peek 

toward the festive season. 

I’m making the most of 

cooking It is the whilst time of I still year have when a 

kitchen thoughts - mine start is to due turn to be to 

ripped Christmas out - in I know, two weeks I’m sorry, and 

it but will I be work camping publishing, stove and 

air we’ve frying been for getting two months gift guide from 

there! inspiration I’ve already emails since picked July! my 

kitchen, Please but don’t it got fret, me thinking there’s 

about nothing all the overtly other festive areas that in 

need these updating pages, but in my there home. is If a 

you look are at those thinking essential of a similar jobs 

refresh, that need please to be check tackled out our in 

home the home pages if you’re this edition looking - 

they’re to host full friends of inspiring and trends family 

and over a the few timeless festive period classics. (let 

me tell you from experience 

We’ve that painting also got up some until 11pm lovely 

editorial on Christmas on the Eve best is not plants the 

for one!) pollinators - plus we - have it’s a never look 

been 

in the 

so 

diary 

important 

at lovely 

to support 

festive 

wildlife 

family fun 

in the 

that’s 

garden. 

coming up. 

The 

On the 

competition 

recipe side this 

guide 

edition 

this 

issue is a bumper one - we 

we have some gorgeous 

have an outdoor furniture 

bakes from Doves Farm - 

set from Bramblecrest worth 

if you’ve been inspired by 

nearly £3,000, plus a cordless 

Organic September, then this 

lawnmower worth £679 to get 

should hopefully help you 

that garden in shape. This, 

keep that going throughout 

plus a lot more makes it well 

worth 

the year. 

a look and an enter! 

We 

That’s 

will 

all 

be 

from 

back 

us, 

again 

in the 

in 

August 

meantime 

- I’ll 

please 

be fully 

do 

rebooted 

enjoy 

and this edition recharged - hopefully into summer cosied 

mode. up something See you warm then! to drink 

- and we will be back with 

bells on (jingle bells!) for the 

December/January edition 

Katie- 

see you then. 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Time 

COMPETITION 

Find out more about entering our competitions online 

at minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions - join our 

Competition Club and enter over 60 comps a year for 

only £12.99! Or enter for free by post. 

All the below close on 15th November 2024 

WIN ONE OF THREE DELUXE 

ITALIAN HAMPERS WORTH 

£100 EACH! 

We’ve teamed up with premium Italian 

truffle brand, La Rustichella, to offer 

three lucky winners the chance to enjoy 

a hamper brimming over with delicious 

truffley treats. Founded in 1986 by 

Sergio Brugnoli and his wife Maria, it 

sources its exquisite truffle products 

from the Umbria region in Italy. 

www.larustichellatruffles.com 

Keyword ‘Rustichella’ 

WIN A VAX SPOTWASH HOME 

DUO WORTH OVER £150 

To help make light work of freshening 

up your home, VAX is offering two 

readers the chance to win a VAX 

SpotWash Home Duo worth £169.99, 

including a free stain removal kit worth 

£30. It’s perfect for refreshing carpets, 

sofas, car interiors and more. 

Best for homes with pets and children, 

the spotwasher includes dedicated 

cleaning tools and antimicrobial 

protection for a reassuring clean. 

Shop online at vax.co.uk 

Keyword ‘VAX Duo’ 

WIN PRIVATE BAR HIRE 

FOR YOUR EVENT PLUS £100 

DRINKS VOUCHER COURTESY 

OF THAT GIN COMPANY 

With its huge range of made-to-order 

gin recipes, cocktails, beer, wine, spirits 

and fizz, That Gin Company offers 

customers a truly unique experience 

for their private event. The winner will 

receive four hours private bar hire for 

their event, to include servers and 

glassware – plus a £100 bar voucher to 

get you started, a total prize package 

worth £450. 

Find out more at thatgincompany.co.uk 

Keyword ‘That Gin Co’ 

WIN A BEAUTIFUL COTTON 

KIMONO FROM HAUS 

Handmade in India, these lovely cotton 

kimonos are wonderful to wear in the 

house, or even as a bright and light 

coat in transitional weather. Featuring 

a dizzying array of prints and colours, 

you’re sure to find a style that suits 

you. From £36.99. We have four to give 

away! 

Shop online at hauslife.co.uk 

Keyword ‘Haus Kimono’ 

WIN A TWO NIGHT STAY IN 

CURLY THE CAMPERVAN 

Hit the open road in style in this 

beautiful VW campervan. Sleeping 

up to four people, you’ll be ready for 

any adventure. With a fully funtional 

kitchette, solar panels to take you 

off grid and a pop-top, Curly makes 

for a memorable, and importantly 

comfortable weekend away! One 

lucky winner will win a two-night hire, 

redeemable between November 24 - 

March 2025! 

Find out more at: 

trailblazercampers.co.uk 

Keyword ‘Curly’ 

WIN A ZANUSSI BBQ 

Practical and spacious, this BBQ makes 

a welcome addition to your outdoor 

entertaining space. 

Features a chrome-plated steel grill and 

handy grease collection tray, it even 

has added storage. The integrated 

thermostat helps you maintain the 

optimum cooking temperature, meaning 

your food can 

Perfect for entertaining outdoors, family 

meals, and evenings with friends 

Shop online at shop.zanussi.co.uk 

Keyword ‘Zanussi’ 

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

cotsw lds 

Letting your holiday home 

has never been easier 

At Cotswolds Hideaways our local team is here 

to make sure the whole process of letting your 

holiday home is as simple as possible. 

Why not get in touch today for a chat or request 

a free copy of our Property Letting Guide? 

cotswoldshideaways.co.uk 

01451 888 040 

Gardens, Teashop, Plant Centre, 

Gift Barn, Gallery, Museum, 

Play Area, Orchards, Annual Events 

Open All Year Round 

Waterperry Gardens, Nr Wheatley, 

Oxford OX33 1LA. T 01844 339226 

www.waterperrygardens.co.uk 

Book with your personal travel agent. 

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and 

join a friendly and super-supportive group today! 

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant 

and join a friendly and supportive group today! 

Call/Text Jo on 07986 496459 for more information. 

Thursday 4pm, 5.30pm or 7.15pm 

Banbury Cricket Club, White Post Road, Bodicote OX15 4BN 

Friday 9.30am 

Banbury Cricket Club, White Post Road, Bodicote OX15 4BN 

Saturday 8am or 9.30am 

Frank Wise School, Hornbeam Close, 

Banbury OX16 9RL 

slimmingworld.co.uk 

Book with confidence • Book with financial protection. 

Inspired destination ideas help to create the perfect trip 

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Collection from M&S 

Brighton Stripe Hammam 

Towel Mustard, £48, 

bohemiadesign.co.uk 

Stripe Joggers, 

£22, Matalan 

Clothing from Joules 

SHOW YOUR 

STRIPES 

Embrace the enduring allure of stripes - a versatile 

staple that truly never goes out of style. From bold 

statements to subtle accents, stripes can effortlessly 

elevate any room or outfit, so it’s no wonder they’ve 

remained a fan favourite over the years. 

TBCo, Set Of 

Two Green Stripe 

Pillowcases, £59 

Raspberry Beret Marquetry 

Frame, £36, casabyjj.com 

Natural Stripe Seatpad 

2pk, £26.95, hauslife.co.uk 

Miranda Green Stripe Ruffle 

Cushion, £48, 

frenchbedroom.co.uk 

Dune 

London 

Annie Sloan 

Lara Shirt, 

£59.95, Joules 

Bude Blue and White 

Stripe Stoneware 

Table Lamp, £115, 

cotswoldco.com 

Noah Medium Sofa in Cosy Linen, 

Daffodil, £3995, arloandjacob.com 


Collection from M&S 

DOWN TO 

EARTH 

F&F 

Burgandy 

Longline 

Autumn seems If you’re like a looking natural time for a to few new additions 

Coat, £55 

embrace those to rich add earthy to your tones. collection, Brown we’ve pulled 

is the colour together of the season, a curated expect edit to see with everything you 

it throughout need the both to serve the fashion your guests and in style - from 

interiors worlds. the Think little warming details like browns, napkins and serving 

khakis, burnt boards orange and to gorgeous beige - with outdoor a furnishings 

focus on texture that will too. suit the whole family. 

Heeled Regina, Tan £345, 

fairfaxandfavor.com 

V by Very Ribbed 

Collared Cardigan, £32 

V by Very Crew 

Neck Seam Detail 

Midaxi Dress, £40 

Trendsetters 

OUR FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE FASHIONS & FINDS 

Meredith Dress, 

£79.95, Joules 

M&S Contrast 

Trousers £39.50 

Dakota Merino 

Wool Throw, £98, 

socosy.co.uk 

Belmore Knee High 

Boots in Dark Brown 

Leather, £275, 

duoboots.com 

Donegal Cable Roll Neck 

Jumper, £145, celticandco.com 

Cavendish Armchair, 

£450, hauslife.co.uk 


FAMILY-FRIENDLY 

Events and fun 

BANBURY MUSEUM 

HALLOWEEN 

EVENTS 

28th October - 1st November 2024 

Banbury Museum, Banbury 

Various half term, spooky events. 

Please see website for full details 

banburymuseum.org 

BICESTER 

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 

SWITCH-ON 

30th November 2024 

Bicester Town Centre 

Join the festive fun at Bicester’s 

annual Christmas lights switch-on 

event. Enjoy live entertainment, food 

stalls, and children’s activities, with 

the lights officially turned on at 6pm. 

Free Entry 

bicester.gov.uk 

CHIPPING NORTON 

THEATRE: JACK & 

THE BEANSTALK 

13th November 2024 - 12th January 

2025 

Theatre Chipping Norton 

Chipping Norton Theatre’s famous 

Christmas panto reaches for the 

clouds with the most gigantic panto 

of them all. Join us on our giant 

adventures to the Viking kingdom 

of Smorgasbord with young Jack, a 

talking cow and a band of musical 

horned helmets in search of true love 

and world peace! Adults £19.50, 

Children £14.50 

chippingnortontheatre.com 

BANBURY 

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 

SWITCH-ON 

24th November 2024 

Banbury Market Place 

This years Switch On promises to be 

bigger and better than ever, with an 

abundance of traders, activities, and 

live music. 

Free Entry 

banbury.gov.uk 

FREE WILD 

BANBURY EVENT – 

BAT WALK 

Friday 11th October 

Spiceball Park 

Spend the evening learning about 

the worlds only true flying mammal. 

Hear them, see them and start to love 

them! 

£12 per person 

www.bbowt.org.uk/events 

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 

RAILWAY 

26th and 27th October 

Halloween Spooktacular 

Come and watch our special familyfriendly, 

interactive play ‘Red Riding 

Hood’ and enjoy a steam train ride 

with Frankenstein! 

Adults £14.50, Children £10.50 

bucksrailcentre.org/events/ 

halloween-spooktacular 

Panto Express 

Various dates from 30th November 

bucksrailcentre.org 

SUDELEY CASTLE 

29th - 31st October 2024 

Sudeley Ghost Hunt 

Join Sudeley’s cantankerous butler 

for a thrilling evening of ghost hunting 

through the dimly lit corridors and 

eerie staircases of this ancient, 

haunted castle. 

£40 

sudeleycastle.co.uk 

BANBURY 

VICTORIAN 

CHRISTMAS 

MARKET 

22-24 November 

Market Place, Banbury 

Discover 100 charming stalls filled 

with unique treasures, delightful 

street performers, magical Victorian 

carousel and live entertainment that 

will transport you to the heart of 

Victorian splendour. 

Correct at time of going to print. 

Please check individual event websites 

for details prior to event to avoid 

disappointment should details change. 


SELL YOUR ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES 

Free Weekly Valuations 

at Holloway’s 

Every Thursday 9.30 am - 4 pm 

with Jasper Marsh 

Hanson Holloway’s Ross: 

49 Parson’s Street, 

Banbury OX16 5NB 

AUCTIONS 

EVERY 

MONTH 

To find out more visit: 

www.hollowaysauctioneers.co.uk 

Bidding Platform: www.hansonslive.co.uk 

fI 

HollowaysAuctions 

L HHRauctions 

V 

01295 817777 


BANBURY CHRISTMAS 

LIGHT SWITCH ON 

2024 

Rounding off a spectacular year of Banbury Town 

Council events will be the Christmas Lights Switch On, 

which takes place on the 24th of November... 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

Launching the town into the festive 

season with an eye-catching array of 

lights, this years Switch On promises to 

be bigger and better than ever, with an 

abundance of traders, activities, and live 

music. 

Banbury Market Place will be transformed 

into a hub of entertainment, with the 

festivities beginning at 11:00am. There 

will be food and drink sold throughout the 

day, and plenty of stalls and displays to 

keep all ages in the spirit of the season. 

Banbury Music Mix Radio will once again 

be bringing Banbury residents some 

of the best local talent around, with a 

line-up of extremely gifted entertainers 

wowing the crowds all throughout the 

day. Both dance groups and musical 

acts will grace the stage, with a wide 

selection of genres on show. There will 

also be theatre performances and even 

exciting fairground rides, ensuring there’s 

something for the whole family to enjoy! 

Banbury Town Council is unveiling some 

all-new light designs this year, as well 

as some returning favourites. There will 

also be a firework display at the end of 

the event, bringing the occasion to a 

memorable close. 

Visitors are of course encouraged to keep 

an eye out for Father Christmas, who 

will once again be gracing the event with 

his presence. Last year, to celebrate the 

occasion he appeared on the balcony of 

the Town Hall and addressed the crowd 

below. Will he be doing so again this 

year? Come along and find out! 

Banbury has a long history of celebrating 

the Christmas season, and Banbury 

Town Council looks forward to bringing 

joy and merriment to Market Place once 

again this November. Once switched on, 

the Christmas lights will remain active 

until the end of December, keeping the 

town looking warm, bright, and festive 

throughout the final month of the year. 

This event is the last 2024 event in 

Banbury Town Council’s calendar, 

meaning residents can look forward to 

the revealing of next year’s event line-up 

very soon. Stay up to date with the latest 

updates regarding Banbury Town Council 

projects and events by visiting our website 

at www.banbury.gov.uk or by following 

us on Facebook (Banbury Town Council) 

and Instagram (@banburyevents). 

See Father Christmas on a steam train 

See our mini Pantomime 

Enjoy a virtual journey to see Mrs Claus! 

www.bucksrailcentre.org 

Station Road, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY 

Tel: 01296 655720 Email: office@bucksrailcentre.org 

Traditional Family Butcher 

We believe we supply the finest quality, locally sourced 

meats and meat products that you will find anywhere 

Sausages, Burgers and Pies made here at Fritwell by hand 

And there’s more... Orders being taken for Christmas 

Parties, weddings, business lunches, picnics 

Bespoke menus to fulfil your requirements 

So if you need a caterer that has a really good relationship 

with the best country butcher for miles 

Autumn sausage making classes now available 

Orders 

now being 

taken for 

Christmas 

Hampers 

Please contact Gordon for details 

45 East Street, Fritwell, Bicester OX27 7PX 

Tel 01869 345229 Fax 01869345522 

gbwrighton@AOL.com ✦ www.wrightons.co.uk 


Soliel Throw by 

Justina Blakeney, £40, 

bloomandbrew.co.uk 

Image from 

posterstore.com 

Caprichosa Metal Base 

Sofa, bykoket.com 

Cotton Velvet 

Fringed Cushion £20, 

cotswoldco.com 

AUTUMN'S 

Embrace 

Whether you lean into Halloween 

decor or just bring the colours of the 

season in, here’s our Autumn edit 

Witches 

Broom Light 

Up Halloween 

Decoration, 

lights4fun.co.uk 

Velvet Pumpkins from £3.95, 

rockettstgeorge.co.uk 

Organic Zoo Pebble 

Midnight Suit, £39, 

organic-zoo.com 

Image from 

talkingtables.co.uk 

Vintage Book Cover 

Print, £49, 

beachhouseart.co.uk 

Image from 

gardentrading.co.uk 

Cat Battery 

Outdoor Halloween 

Decoration, 

lights4fun.co.uk 


Celebrate with us 

THIS CHRISTMAS 

Join us for a festive season to remember at Whately 

Hall with fine wines, exceptional food and the highest 

standard of service. 

Whether you are looking to join one of our fantastic party nights 

or get together with family and friends over a Festive Lunch 

or Afternoon Tea, then we have something to suit everyone. 

Not forgetting the all-important Christmas Day Lunch and New 

Year’s Eve Party, the perfect way to celebrate. 

Scan QR Code 

to view 

our brochure 


An intimate venue suited to all your needs from celebrations, 

gatherings, coaching seminars, business meetings, crew filming, 

weddings and extended large families. 

THE YNYS ARMS

The Ynys Arms was converted 

from a “free public house” 

and has been welcoming 

guests since August 2022. Its 

the perfect property venue to 

entertain your guests. 

The Ynys still maintains it’s 

rustic country pub feel while 

adding everything you need 

to host your private exclusive 

intimate venue. 

A licensed Wedding Venue, 

you have the entire hire of the 

property which is enclosed 

within a large private garden 

over looking fields. 

Our venue offers 

accommodation sleeping up to 

26 people. Highlights includes 

breakout areas, dining area, 

lounge, kitchen, outdoor 

undercover patio, outdoor 

play area, BBQ area, bicycle 

storage, pet kennels, WiFi, 75” 

SKY Sports TV and ample free 

parking. 

THE YNYS ARMS, 

YNYSMEUDWY ROAD, 

PONTARDAWE, 

SWANSEA SA8 4QJ 

CHECK IN: 16:00 

(Reception open 24 hours) 

CHECK OUT: 10:00 

QUIET HOURS: 

Quiet hours between 23:00 

and 08:00 

02920 001480 

www.nickybrightholidays.com 

www.ukbride.co.uk/wedding-venues/the-ynys-arms 

www.visitwales.com/accommodation/self-catering/ 

ynys-arms-2172309 

Children welcome 

No smoking 

Pets welcome 

Parties allowed including 

bachelor parties

CLUB 

CLUB 

CLUB 

CLUB 

R 

m 

m 

nts@ 

LIVE MUSIC 

Live music with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pm 

Wednesday, 11 September 

QUIZ NIGHT 

With Quiz Master Kevin Hardy from 7:00pm 


EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING 

VILLAGE NIGHT 

UPCOMING 

events 

UPCOMING 

UPCOMING 

From 6:00pm – £10.00 set main course meal 

8oz Rump Steak and Chips with a Sauce (vegetarian ONLY £18.00 option will be available) 

Saturday, 7 September Friday, 27 September 

LIVE MUSIC 

100 CLUB 

events UPCOMING events events 

Winner takes all. Draw takes place at 7:30pm 

@ 

@ 

– You need to be at the draw to win! 


QUIZ NIGHT 

Wednesday, 20 November 

events 



CLUB 

VILLAGE NIGHT VILLAGE NIGHT 

WINNER 

From 6:00pm CLUB – £10.00 set main course meal 


TAKES ALL! NOVEMBER (vegetarian option will be available) 

VILLAGE NIGHT events UPCOMING 


NOVEMBER 

Wednesday, (vegetarian 20 November option will be available) 

Wednesday, 

Friday, VILLAGE 

20 November 

WINNER 29 November Friday, NIGHT 29 November 

From 6:00pm – £10.00 set main Thursday course meal , 6 June 

NOVEMBER 

VILLAGE TAKES 100 CLUB20 (vegetarian option will be available) LIVE MUSIC 

Live music Wednesday, with Leigh Chambers 16 from October 

VILLAGE Winner takes all. NIGHT Draw takes place at 7:30pm 

7:00pm 

From – You 6:00pm need to – be £10.00 at the set draw main to win! course meal 

Friday, 27 September Sunday, 16 June 

100 CLUB OCTOBER 

FATHERS VILLAGE DAY SUNDAY NIGHT 

UPCOMING 

events 

NOVEMBER @ 


(vegetarian option will be available) 

VILLAGE NIGHT 


Wednesday, ALL! NIGHT 

(vegetarian option 20 100 November 

will 

CLUB 

From 6:00pm – £10.00 set available) 

Winner main takes course all. Draw meal takes place at 7:30pm 

NOVEMBER (vegetarian option Friday, will 29 be November 

– available) 

You need to be at the draw to win! 

VILLAGE NIGHT 

100 CLUB Friday, 29 November 

Friday, 

LUNCH 

From Friday, 29 November 6pm 29 November 

Winner takes all. Draw takes place at From 7:30pm 6pm – £10 set main course 

NOVEMBER 

Friday, 

meal 

LIVE 29 MUSIC November 


Wednesday, 19 June 

100 Live music CLUB with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pm 

VILLAGE (vegetarian NIGHT option events 

will From 6:00pm – £10.00 EVERY set main WEDNESDAY course meal EVENING 


8oz Rump Steak and Chips with a Sauce ONLY £18.00 

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 

be available) 


@ 

Winner – takes £10 all. Draw takes place at 7:30pm 

EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING– You need to 

LIVE set main at the 

MUSIC course meal 

draw to win! 

8oz Rump Steak and 

100 

Chips with a Sauce (vegetarian CLUB 

ONLY £18.00 option 

Live music 

available) 

with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pm 

Friday, 29 November 

Saturday, Saturday, 7 September Winner 7 September takes all. Friday, Draw 29 takes November place at 7:30pm 

LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC 


100 CLUB – You need to be 

Live music Live with music Leigh with Chambers Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pm 6:00pm LIVE at the 

- 9:00pm MUSIC draw to win! 

Saturday, 14 December 

Friday, – You need 29 to be November 

at the draw to win! 


Winner takes all. Draw takes place at 7:30pm Live music with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pm 

Wednesday, Wednesday, 11 September 11 September 

EVERY EVERY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY EVENING – EVENING You need to QUIZ be at NIGHT QUIZ the draw 

Friday, 18 October 

Friday, NIGHT to win! 

Friday, 



Friday, 28 June 

8oz Rump Steak and Chips with a Sauce ONLY £18.00 With Quiz With Master Quiz Kevin Master Hardy Kevin from Hardy 7:00pm from 7:00pm 

SEPTEMBER 

Annual 8oz Rump Steak 

SEPTEMBER 

Katharine 

and Chips with a Sauce ONLY £18.00 


Saturday, Saturday, 7 September 7 September 

Wednesday, Wednesday, 18 September 

100 CLUB 

LIVE 100 

18 September 

LIVE MUSIC CLUB 

MUSIC 

CLUB 

Winner LIVE takes all . Draw MUSIC 

LIVE MUSIC 

takes place at 7:00pm 

Live music with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - DECEMBER 

LIVE MUSIC 

VILLAGE VILLAGE NIGHT NIGHT 

Live music with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm Live music - From 6:00pm From – £10.00 6:00pm set – £10.00 main course set main meal course meal 

House LIVE MUSIC 

Live music with Tractor Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pmRun 

Live music Winner with takes Leigh Chambers all. Draw takes 6:00pm place - 9:00pm at 7:30pm 

with (vegetarian Leigh (vegetarian option Chambers will option be available) will 6:00pm be available) - 9:00pm 

– You need WINNER to be at the draw to win! 

Wednesday, Wednesday, 11 September 11 September 

Live TAKES music ALL! with Leigh Chambers 6pm - 9pm 

Friday, 27 Friday, September 

- You need to be at the draw to win! 

27 September 

QUIZ QUIZ NIGHT NIGHT 

With Quiz With Master Quiz Kevin Master Hardy Kevin from Hardy 7:00pm from 7:00pm 100 CLUB 100 CLUB 

Winner takes Winner all. Draw takes takes all. Draw place takes at 7:30pm place at 7:30pm 

Wednesday, 18 September 18 September December – You need – to You be need at the to draw be at to the win! draw to win! 

Wednesday, Leigh 23 October 


NIGHT 

From 6:00pm From – £10.00 6:00pm set – £10.00 main course set main meal course meal 

Sunday, 7 July 

(vegetarian (vegetarian option will option be available) will be available) 

LIVE MUSIC & SUNDOWNERS Chambers VILLAGE NIGHT 

Friday, 27 Friday, September 27 September 

Live music with Leigh Chambers from QUIZ 5:00pm NIGHT 

LIVE MUSIC 

WINNER WINNER 

Acoustic Cover Set 

100 CLUB 

TAKES ALL! 

From 6:00pm 100 CLUB 

TAKES ALL! 

Winner takes Winner all. Draw 

– 

takes 

£10.00 

takes all. Draw place takes at 7:30pm place at 7:30pm 

set main course CLUB 

-Songs you thought 

Live meal music with Leigh Chambers 6pm - 9p 

– You need – You to be need at the to draw be at to the win! draw to win! 

Wednesday 17 July With Quiz Master 

you’d forgotten(vegetarian option will be available) 

Wednesday, Wednesday, 16 October 16 October 

WINNER 

VILLAGE NIGHT Kevin Hardy SONGS from BY: 7pm 

VILLAGE VILLAGE NIGHT NIGHT 

TAKES ALL! 


John Martyn 

From 6:00pm From – £10.00 6:00pm set – £10.00 main course set main course meal 

OCTOBER 

Outkast 

OCTOBER Saturday, meal 14 December 

(vegetarian (vegetarian option will option be available) will be available) 

(vegetarian option will available) 

WINNER WINNER 

Pearl Jam 

CLUB 

TAKES ALL! TAKES ALL! Friday, 18 Friday, October 18 October 

Friday, 25 October 

Richard Marx Friday, 27 December 

LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC 

Toto 

WINNER 

Friday, 26 July 

Live music Live with music Leigh with Chambers Leigh Chambers 6:00pm ANNUAL - 9:00pm 6:00pm - 9:00pm KATHARINE 

The Beatles 

TAKES ALL! 

CLUB 

Jack Tears Jackson 

Wednesday, Wednesday, 16 October 

Wednesday, 23 October 

01295 Winner 100 takes CLUB 

all . 810327 Draw takes place at 7:00pm 

Chris Issac 

for Fears 

QUIZ NIGHT Saturday, 14 December 

www.pickledploughman.co.uk 


WINNER 


Led Zeppelin OCTOBER 

VILLAGE 16 October 

NIGHT 


100 CLUB 

VILLAGE NIGHT 

QUIZ NIGHT 

From 6:00pm From – £10.00 

(vegetarian 6:00pm set 

option – £10.00 main course 

will be set available) 

main meal course meal With Quiz Master Kevin Hardy from 7:00pm 

OCTOBER (vegetarian option will be available) 

Friday, 25 Friday, October 25 October 

TAKES ALL! 

Winner takes all. Draw takes place ...and at 7:30pm Winner takes all. Draw takes place at 7:30pm HOUSE 

Annual Katharine 

TRACTOR RUN CLUB 

Friday, 18 Friday, October 18 October 

many more 

100 CLUB 100 CLUB 

LIVE MUSIC Saturday, 


DECEMBER 

14 Winner December 

takes Winner all. Draw takes takes all. Draw place takes at House 7:30pm place at 7:30pm 

– You need LIVE MUSIC 

Tractor Run 

Live music to Live with music Leigh be with Chambers Leigh at Chambers 6:00pm the - 9:00pm 6:00pm draw - 9:00pm – to You need win! 

– to You be need the to draw be at to the win! Wednesday, draw to win! 18 December 

WINNER 

Wednesday, 23 October Annual 

Wednesday, 

Katharine 

TAKES ALL! 


Wednesday, 30 October 30 October 

QUIZ QUIZ NIGHT NIGHT 

Wednesday, 18 December 

Sunday, 4 August 

DECEMBER House Tractor TIMOTHY TIMOTHY RunTAYLOR’S NIGHT NIGHT 

With Quiz With Master Quiz Kevin Master Hardy Kevin from Hardy 7:00pm from 7:00pm 

Thursday, Thursday, 31 October 31 October 


VILLAGE 

LIVE MUSIC & SUNDOWNERS 

Saturday, 14 December NIGHT NIGHT 

Friday, 25 Friday, October 25 October Wednesday, HALLOWEEN 18 December 

HALLOWEEN 

100 CLUB 100 CLUB 

6:00pm £10.00 meal 

Live music with Stuart Layzell from 5:00pm 

Kids under 

Winner takes all. Draw takes place 

Kids 12 eat under free 


12 eat free 

VILLAGE at 7:30pm NIGHT From Annual 6pm – 

(vegetarian option Katharine 

set main course meal 

– You need – You to be need at the to draw be at to the win! draw to win! 

will be available) 

TIMOTHY TAYLOR’S 


Wednesday 21 August 

Wednesday, Wednesday, 30 October 30 October (vegetarian 

DECEMBER 

option will be available) House Tractor Run 

TIMOTHY TIMOTHY TAYLOR’S TAYLOR’S 01295 NIGHT 01295 NIGHT810327 Saturday, (vegetarian 


VILLAGE NIGHT 

Friday, 14 December option available) 

27 December 

Thursday, Thursday, 31 October 31 October 

NIGHT 


Friday, 27 December Annual 

HALLOWEEN HALLOWEEN 

Wednesday, 100 CLUB18 (vegetarian option will be available) 

100 CLUB Friday, Katharine 27 December 

Kids under Kids 12 eat under free12 eat free 

VILLAGE Winner takes all. NIGHT Draw takes place at 7:30pm 

DECEMBER 

Winner takes all. Draw takes House place at 7:30pm Tractor Run 

CLUB 

Thursday, 31 October Sunday, 25 August 

– You need to be at the draw to win! From – You 6:00pm need to – be £10.00 at the set draw main to win! course meal 

100 

(vegetarian 

CLUB 

option will available) 

LIVE MUSIC & SUNDOWNERS 

01295 01295 810327 810327 www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

Wednesday, 18 December 

Live music with Leigh Chambers from 5:00pm 

Winner takes all. Draw takes place 

HALLOWEEN 

VILLAGE Friday, 27 NIGHT December 

Friday, 30 August 

From 6:00pm at 

Kids under 12 eat free 

100 7:30pm – CLUB £10.00 - You set need main course to be meal at 

100 CLUB 

(vegetarian the Winner draw option takes to will all. win! Draw be available) takes place at 7:30pm 

Winner takes all . Draw takes place at 7:00pm – You need to be at the draw to win! 

01295 – You 810327 need to be at the draw to win! www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

Friday, 27 December 

01295 810327 810327 www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

01295 810327 www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

01295100 810327 CLUB 

01295 810327 Winner – You need takes to all. be Draw at the takes draw place to win! 


at 7:30pm 

EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING 

8oz Rump Steak and Chips with a Sauce ONLY £18.00 

OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 

Will be available from 

15th November 

Live music with Leigh Chambers 6:00pm - 9:00pm 

@ 

OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 



Leigh 

Chambers 



you’d forgotten 

SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 

Tears for Fears 

Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 

OUR FESTIVE OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU PARTY MENU 

Will be available Will be from available from 

15th November 15th November 





327 www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

Turkeys 

£5.42 per lb or 

£11.92 per kilo 

Cockerels 

£4.40 per lb or 

£9.50 per kilo 

Oven ready 

All our birds are reared 

from day old’s and live 

in large barns. 




OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 

SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 



EVERY EVERY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY EVENING EVENING 

8oz Rump 8oz Steak Rump and Steak Chips and with Chips a Sauce with ONLY a Sauce £18.00 ONLY £18.00 









EVERY EVERY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY EVENING EVENING 

8oz Rump Steak 8oz Rump and Chips Steak with and Chips a Sauce with ONLY a Sauce £18.00 ONLY £18.00 

Leigh Leigh 

Chambers Chambers 

Acoustic Cover Acoustic Set Cover Set 

-Songs you -Songs thought you thought 

you’d forgotten you’d forgotten 

SONGS BY: 

SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

Toto 

The Beatles 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 

Jack Jackson 



Chris Issac 

Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

...and 

many more 

many more 

COME AND 

CELEBRATE THE 

FESTIVE SEASON 

WITH US 

OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 



COME AND 

CELEBRATE THE 


WITH US 

Leigh 

Chambers 

Leigh Leigh 

Chambers Chambers 




Acoustic Cover Acoustic Set Cover Set 

-Songs you -Songs thought you thought 

you’d forgotten you’d forgotten 

OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 

SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 

SONGS BY: 

SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

Toto 

The Beatles 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 

Jack Jackson 



Chris Issac 

Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

...and 

many more 

many more 



OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 



COME AND 

CELEBRATE THE 


WITH US 

COME AND 

CELEBRATE THE 


WITH US 

Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 

OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 

OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 





OUR FESTIVE 

PARTY MENU 



COME AND 

CELEBRATE THE 


WITH US 

Leigh 

Chambers 

Leigh 

Chambers 

Leigh 

Chambers 

Leigh 

Chambers 




SONGS Leigh BY: 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Chambers 

Pearl Jam 







Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris SONGS Issac BY: 

Led John Zeppelin Martyn 

...and Outkast 

many Pearl more Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 




SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 

SONGS BY: 

John Martyn 

Outkast 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 




SONGS BY: 

John 

Outkast 

Martyn 

Pearl Jam 

Richard Marx 

Toto 

The Beatles 

Jack Jackson 


Chris Issac 

Led Zeppelin 

...and 

many more 

01295 810327 www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

Oak Tree Farm, 

Tadmarton Road, 

Bloxham, 01295 Banbury 810327 www.pickledploughman.co.uk 

OX15 4JA 

Quality farm reared 

turkeys and cockerels 

25% 

OFF 

SELECTED 

COTTON PJS 

Mid Season 

SALE 

U P T O 5 0 % O F F ! 

You can order online at 

www.oaktreefarm.org 

or call 01295 721954 

3 Abbeygate Street, Bath 

hauslife.co.uk 


Hanging Cooking Bowl, 

£48, firepitsuk.co.uk 

BONFIRE 

NIGHT 

RECIPE 

SLOW COOKER PORK 

CASSEROLE 

Prep:15 mins 

Cook: 6 hrs - 8 hrs 

Serves: 4 

Gourmet 

Marshmallows, 

£4.99, 

hauslife.co.uk 

BONFIRE 

delights 

Getting fireside in the cooler 

weather is a seasonal treat - 

make your Bonfire Night a 

special one 

Gauntlet, £28, 

maisonelhoria.com 

Petromax Tyropit 

Fire Bowl, £334.95, 

berryuseful.co.uk 

Harth Cinnamon Hot 

Chocolate, £6.95, hauslife.co.uk 

Extremely robust and with 

outdoor enthusiasts in mind, the 

Petromax Atago is an unrivalled 

all-in-one tool that can be used 

as conventional barbecue, 

stove, oven, and fire bowl with 

charcoal briquettes or firewood. 

Petromax Atago, from £211 

Ingredients 

1 tbsp vegetable or rapeseed oil 

4 pork shoulder steaks (about 

750g), cut into large chunks 

1 onion, chopped 

1 leek, chopped 

1 carrot, chopped 

bundle of woody herbs (bouquet 

garni) – a mix of a few bay leaves, 

sage leaves and thyme sprigs 

works well 

1 chicken stock cube 

2 tsp Dijon mustard 

1 tbsp cider vinegar 

2 tsp cornflour 

1 tbsp honey 

Method 

Heat your slow cooker. Drizzle the 

oil in a wide frying pan over a high 

heat. Season the pork, then add to 

the hot pan. Avoid overcrowding 

the meat – you may want to do this 

in batches. Cook until deep brown 

all over, then transfer to the slow 

cooker. Add the onion and leeks 

to the frying pan and cook for a 

few mins, until they soften. Add 

a splash of water and scrape any 

tasty bits from the bottom, then tip 

everything into the slow cooker. 

Add the carrot, herbs, stock cube, 

mustard and vinegar, season, then 

add enough water to just cover the 

ingredients. Stir, then set your slow 

cooker on low for 6-8 hrs, or high 

for 5-6 hrs. 

In a saucepan, mix the cornflour 

and honey with 1-2 tsp of liquid 

from the slow cooker, until you 

have a smooth paste. Add 100ml 

more liquid, bring to a simmer 

until thickened, then stir back into 

the casserole. Serve with mash or 

dumplings, scattered with thyme 

leaves. 

Recipe adapted from BBC 

Good Food 



Boarding communities 

celebrating 

global unity 

Boarding schools are home to vibrant and diverse 

communities. These communities are immersive and play a 

significant role in shaping the lives of young people... 

For those who make the decision 

to board, the experience opens an 

environment which can broaden 

perspectives, enhance learning 

experiences and develop global 

awareness. 

Boarding is a unique environment 

where global perspectives converge 

with respect for one-another, breaking 

down barriers and broadening students’ 

worldviews. These cross-cultural 

exchanges allow students to learn from 

one another’s traditions, languages, 

and viewpoints, fostering respect and 

understanding. 

The Boarding Schools’ Association 

(BSA) represents member boarding 

schools in over 40 countries and has 

long advocated the value found in the 

multicultural and multinational world of 

boarding. 

Living with peers from different 

countries and cultures enhances global 

awareness and prepares students for life 

in an increasingly interconnected world. 

Meeting and developing friendships with 

individuals from diverse backgrounds 

also has the power to enrich a 

student’s learning experience, making 

it more dynamic and multifaceted. As 

a result, students who board develop 

a comprehensive understanding of 

the world, which builds empathy, 

acceptance and reduces bias. 

Each year in October, BSA celebrates 

International Boarding Day, a day which 

highlights the sense of community, 

camaraderie, and personal growth 

fostered within boarding education. 

International Boarding Day aims to 

create an opportunity to reflect on 

the invaluable life skills, friendships, 

and independence cultivated in these 

settings, while also celebrating and 

sharing experiences of inclusive, 

supportive boarding school 

communities across the globe. 

This year, the theme is ‘Global 

Unity’, designed to bring boarding 

communities across the world together. 

This is especially important in the 

current global context. 

BSA Group encompasses five 

other associations in the education, 

safeguarding and health/wellbeing 

sectors and has just launched a new 

dedicated association to support 

excellence in equity, diversity and 

inclusion. The Inclusion and Equity 

Leadership Association (IELA) 

represents any school, organisation, 

association, agency or individual 

involved or interested in EDI in the UK 

or internationally. 

IELA will exist to support schools, as 

well as other organisations, to further 

their equity, diversity and inclusion 

provision. A boarding experience which 

allows communities to feel valued and 

respected are those which promote an 

inclusive school culture where diversity 

is celebrated. 

Many factors come into play when 

considering a boarding education. 

Belonging and inclusion is an important 

one. If you are searching for a boarding 

school for your child, know that they are 

places where young people can truly be 

themselves. 

www.boarding.org.uk 


sibfordschool.co.uk 

+44 (0)1295 781200 

Sixth Form 

Open Evening 

Tuesday 


6pm - 8pm 

BE YOU. 

BE SIBFORD. 

Full, weekly and flexible boarding options 

Sibford School Sixth Form benefits from 

small class sizes and a supportive, close knit 

community where courses are tailored to 

individual needs. 

Visit sibfordschool.co.uk/events to book your place.

Add a little challenge to your day with these 3D 

puzzle erasers. Simply separate the pieces to 

use as an eraser, then see if you can put them 

back together again, £3.95, rexlondon.com 

Give your little one a sense of independence and let 

them explore the outdoors whatever the weather, 

£12.95, rexlondon.com 

S C 

Essentials 

H O O L 

Hello Hossy backpacks are 

eco-friendly and are made from 

recycled plastic bottles, £44, 

moolikeamonkey.com 

Get that grey matter working postholidays, 

whilst teaching kids about 

recycling with these fun art kits, 

from £3.50, hauslife.co.uk 

Sophie Allport, 

Personalised Dinosaurs 

Lunch Bag, £36.50, 

sophieallport.com 

Reusable Snack Bags 

(Set Of 3), £2.95, 

rexlondon.com 

Pencil cases and pouches, sustainably 

handmade in Scotland, from £19 

storigraphic.com 

If you’re seeking an education which fosters 

Kindness, Courage and Respect, builds children’s 

confidence, embraces fun, and emphasises 

curiosity and freedom of thinking over everything 

else, then the Dragon could be for you. 

We hold termly open mornings, visit our website 

to book your visit. 

www.dragonschool.org

Baking 

ORGANIC 

If you’ve been inspired by this year’s Organic September, Doves Farm 

have given us some recipes to keep that spirit going this autumn. 

Using organic flour is a simple way to make a positive difference to 

the planet, whilst elevating everyday bakes. 

PEAR 

FRANGIPANE 

CAKE 

Ingredients 

100g butter 

100g caster sugar 

2 eggs 

100g Doves Farm Organic Self 

Raising White Flour 

2 tbsp lime juice 

100g ground almonds 

3 ripe pears 

1 tbsp demerara sugar 

butter, for tin 

Method 

1. Pre-heat the oven - 190°C, Fan 

170°C, 375°F, Gas 5 

2. Rub some butter around the 

inside of a 20cm/8” round cake 

tin or insert a baking liner. 

3. Chop the butter into small cubes. 

4. Put the butter cubes and sugar 

into a mixing bowl and beat 

together until light and fluffy. 

5. Beat in the eggs one at a time. 

6. Sieve the flour into the bowl and 

mix well. 

7. Add the lime juice and ground 

almonds and stir to combine. 

8. Tip the mixture into the prepared 

tin and smooth the top. 

9. Peel, core and slice the pears 

and arrange them over the top of 

the cake. 

10. Scatter the demerara sugar over 

the top. 

11. Bake for 50-55 minutes. 

12. Remove from the oven and leave 

to cool before removing from 

the tin. 



WHOLEMEAL SPELT AIRFRYER BREAD 

Ingredients 

250g Doves Farm Organic Wholemeal 

Spelt Flour 

½ tsp Doves Farm Quick Yeast 

pinch sugar 

175ml tepid water 

¼ tsp salt 

1 tbsp oil 

oil, for tin 

Method 

1. Rub oil around the inside of a 

500g/1lb bread tin and check that it 

will fit in your machine. 

2. Set the air fryer to 200°C and run it 

empty for 5 minutes. 

3. Put the flour, yeast, sugar into a 

mixing bowl and blend them together 

well. 

4. Pour in the water and mix together 

until craggy. 

5. Scatter the salt over the top and stir 

to make a dough. 

6. Sprinkle the oil over the top. 

7. Using your hands bring together a 

doughy mass. 

8. Knead the sticky dough in the bowl 

for 100 presses. Avoid adding flour 

as the dough strengthens. 

9. Shape the dough and put it in the tin, 

place the tin in the warm machine 

and leave to rise for 40 minutes. 

10. Without opening the door, set the air 

fryer to 200°C again and run for 30 

minutes. 

11. Carefully take the bread tin out of the 

machine, tip the loaf out and leave it 

to cool on a wire rack. 


WHOLEMEAL 

SPELT TOFFEE 

APPLE CAKE 

Ingredients 

Cake: 

225g Doves Farm Organic Wholemeal 

Spelt Flour 

3 tsp Doves Farm Baking Powder 

2 tsp ground cinnamon 

1 tsp ground cloves 

3 eggs 

150g light brown sugar 

100ml oil 

4 eating apples 

50g sultanas 


Toffee Icing: 

75g butter 

75g soft brown sugar 

Method 

1. Pre-heat the oven - 190°C, Fan 

170°C, 375°F, Gas 5 

2. Rub some butter around the inside 

of a 20cm/8” deep round cake tin or 

insert a baking liner. 

3. Measure the flour, baking powder, 

cinnamon and cloves into a bowl, 

blend together and sieve into 

another bowl. 

4. Break the eggs into a mixing bowl, 

add the sugar, oil and beat together. 

5. Peel, core and coarsely grate two 

apples into the mixing bowl. 

6. Tip the prepared flour into the 

mixing bowl and stir to combine. 

7. Add the sultanas and stir again. 

8. Tip the mixture into the prepared tin 

and smooth the top. 

9. Quarter, core and slice the remaining 

apples thinly (there is no need to 

peel the apples unless they are 

cooking apples). 

10. Lay the apple pieces decoratively on 

top of the cake. 

11. Bake for 65-70 minutes, until a 

cocktail stick comes out clean. 

12. Allow to cool in the tin. 

13. Remove the cake from the tin and 

stand it on a flat surface. 

14. Cut the butter into cubes and put 

them into a saucepan. 

15. Add the sugar. 

16. Put the pan over a gentle heat and 

stir occasionally as the butter and 

sugar melt. 

17. Bring to a rolling boil then remove 

from the heat. 

18. Stir until the bubbles subside. 

19. Immediately pour the toffee icing 

over the top of the cake allowing it 

to run down the sides. 


P e r f e c t 

g i f t s f o r 

a n y 

b u d g e t 

F a s h i o n , 

h o m e w a r e , 

b e a u t y & 

a c c e s s o r i e s 

1 0 % o f f 

u s i n g c o d e 

1 0 H A U S L I F E 

S H O P T H E F U L L C O L L E C T I O N 

h a u s l i f e . c o . u k

WHITE SPELT 

AND CINAMON 

STREUSEL CAKE 

Ingredients 

Cake: 

125g Doves Farm Organic White Spelt 

Flour 

3 tsp Doves Farm Baking Powder 

2 tbsp cinnamon 

100g butter 

125g caster sugar 

2 eggs 

3 tbsp milk 


Streusel Topping: 

100g ground almonds 

125g demerara sugar 

1 egg 

2 tbsp milk 

1 tsp icing sugar 

2 cinnamon sticks, optional 

Method 

1. Pre-heat the oven 20 minutes 

before you are going to bake - 

180°C, Fan 160°C, 350°F, Gas 4 

2. Rub some butter around the 

inside of a 18cm/7” round deep 

cake tin or insert a baking liner. 

3. Measure the flour, baking powder 

and cinnamon into a mixing bowl, 

stir to combine and sieve into 

another bowl. 

4. Chop the butter into small cubes. 

5. Put the butter cubes into a mixing 

bowl, add the sugar and beat 

together until light and fluffy. 

6. Break the eggs into the bowl 

one at a time, beating after each 

addition. 

7. Tip the prepared flour blend into 

the bowl, add the milk, and stir to 

combine. 

8. Tip the mix into the prepared tin 

and smooth the top. 

9. Put the almonds and demerara 

sugar into a bowl and stir to 

combine. 

10. Break the egg into another bowl, 

add the milk and then beat 

together. 

11. Tip the egg mixture into the 

mixing bowl and roughly mix 

everything together with a fork. 

12. Spread the topping over the cake. 

13. Bake for 50-55 minutes. 

14. Cool the cake in the tin for 20 

minutes before carefully turning it 

out onto a rack to cool. 

15. When cold sieve the icing sugar 

over the cake and decorate with 

the cinnamon sticks. 


AIRFRYER BANANA BREAD 

Ingredients 

1 banana 

100g brown sugar 

½ tsp cinnamon 

½ tsp vanilla extract 

1 egg 

50ml oil 

125g Doves Farm Organic Self Raising 

Wholemeal Flour 

oil, for tin 

Method 

1. Select a 500g/1lb tin or silicone mould 

that fits into your air fryer comfortably 

and rub oil around the inside or insert 

a baking liner. 

2. Set the air fryer to 160°C and run for 

5 minutes. 

3. Mash the banana in a mixing bowl. 

4. Add the sugar, cinnamon and vanilla 

extract and mash to combine. 

5. Break the egg into the bowl and mix 

well. 

6. Add the oil and beat to incorporate. 

7. Measure the flour into the bowl and 

stir until fully combined. 

8. Pour the mixture into the tin or mould. 

9. Quickly open the air fryer, put the 

cake inside and bake for 30 minutes. 

10. At the end of cooking, leave to cool 

inside the machine for 15 minutes 

then remove and allow to stand for 5 

minutes before turning the cake out 

onto a wire rack to cool. 


Supporting 

Local Farmers 

and Tradition 

Why Copas Traditional Turkeys are 

the perfect choice for your festive table 

In recent years, the appeal of locally sourced, ethically raised, 

and high-quality food has grown significantly. Among the 

many options available, Copas Traditional Turkeys stand 

out not just for their exceptional taste, but also for their 

commitment to heritage and sustainable farming practices. 

Tom Copas (pictured with his 4 dogs) heads up the family-run 

business in the heart of the Berkshire countryside, offering 

a product that reflects both tradition and modern ethical 

standards. 

These turkeys are not just any birds; they are the result of 

decades of careful breeding and meticulous attention to 

detail. Tom recalls most Decembers of his childhood helping 

during turkey season. “When we were kids we all helped out”, 

he tells us, “every December we were packing turkeys into 

boxes, I remember everything smelling strongly of rosemary!” 

What truly sets Copas turkeys apart is their dedication to 

traditional methods of farming and preparation. The birds 

are grown slowly over several months, free ranging more 

than twice as long as the average off the shelf turkey. This 

full and laidback life of browsing wide open spaces of the 

countryside Abingdon results Living in Half a richer Page.pdf flavour 1 12/08/2024 and more 12:35:29 tender meat. 

This traditional method of production harks back to a time 


when quality was valued over quantity. Every step was taken 

to ensure that the final product was something to be savoured 

and shared. There are no short cuts in this traditional process. 

Like a good champagne, any variance would result in an 

entirely different product. 

Choosing a Copas Traditional Turkey is more than just 

a culinary decision; it shows support of local farming, 

sustainable practices, and a return to the values that make 

Christmas so special. It’s about knowing where your food 

comes from, understanding the care that goes into it, and 

making a choice that benefits not only your family but the 

community as well. 

This festive season, when you gather around the table with 

loved ones, consider making a Copas Traditional Turkey 

the star of your meal. It’s a choice that reflects both a love 

of good food and a respect for the hard work of our local 

farmers. After all, there’s nothing more festive than a meal 

made with care, tradition, and a commitment to quality. 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 

COPASFARMSHOP.CO.UK • 01628 499980

VEGETABLE 

HAKKA 

NOODLES 

SINCE OPENING IN 2019, FATT PUNDIT HAS CONTINUED TO BE ONE 

OF THE LEADERS OF LONDON’S INDO-CHINESE SCENE WITH TWO 

SITES IN SOHO AND COVENT GARDEN. ORIGINATING FROM KOLKATA, 

THE CUISINE IS A DELICIOUS FUSION WHICH VIBRANTLY BLENDS TWO 

DISTINCT CUISINES, A FUSION THAT WAS BORN OUT OF THE “HAKKA” 

CHINESE DIASPORA COMMUNITY THAT SETTLED IN KOLKATA, INDIA 

OVER 100 YEARS AGO. IT IS AN INTERPRETATION OF CHINESE FOOD, 

WHICH COMBINES THE DEEP-FRIED, SPICY FLAVOURS INDIANS LOVE 

WITH A CHINESE TWIST. 

PREP 15 MIN 

COOK 10 MIN 

SERVES 2-3, AS A SIDE 

INGREDIENTS: 

• 400g Egg Noodles 

• 5-6 tbsp. oil 

• 100g sliced white onions 

• 100g carrots julienned 

• 100g cabbage julienned 

• 50g sliced green beans 

• 100g bean sprouts 

• 1 ½ tbsp. dark soya 

• 1 ½ tbsp. light soya 

• Spring onions stalk sliced 

• Salt to taste 

METHOD: 

1. Boil water in a large pot for the noodles. Cook until al dente, drain, and 

rinse in cold water. Set aside. 

2. Heat oil in a wok, add onion and stir-fry for two minutes until light brown. 

Add carrot, cabbage, green beans, bean sprouts and stir-fry stirring and 

tossing continuously for 1 – 2 minutes. 

Note: Do not overcook the vegetables so they don’t lose their crunch. 

3. Add your noodles. Make sure that before you add them, they’re 

somewhat loose and not all clumped together (you can rinse them in warm 

water to loosen them up before adding them to the wok). 

4. Add the soya sauce mixture and salt over the noodles and stir-fry on 

high heat until the colour of the noodles is the same all around. A folding or 

scoop-and-lift motion works well for that. Ensure everything is mixed well 

together, finally add sliced green onions and serve. 


LOLLIPOP 

CHICKEN 

INDO-CHINESE AUTUMN RECIPES 

FROM FATT PUNDIT 

PREP: 10 MIN 

MARINATE: 30 MIN 

COOK: 15 MIN 

MAKES: 12 

INGREDIENTS 

• 14-16 chicken lollipops (pulled chicken 

wings) 

• 2 tbsp. ginger-garlic paste 


• 1 tsp crushed black peppercorns 

• 3 Whole eggs 

• 1 tbsp. soy sauce 

• Oil for deep-frying 

• 1 tbsp. chopped ginger 

• 1 tbsp. chopped garlic 

• 2 tbsp. chilli paste 

• Red chilli paste 

• 1/2 cup refined flour 

• 1/2 cup cornflour 

• Spring onion greens chopped for 

garnishing 

METHOD 

1. Combine chicken lollipops, ginger-garlic 

paste, salt, 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed peppercorns 

and soy sauce in a bowl and mix well. Marinate 

the chicken for 30 minutes. 

2. Heat sufficient oil in a deep pan. 

3. Combine ginger, garlic, red chilli paste, refined 

flour, cornflour, salt and remaining crushed 

peppercorns in another bowl and mix well. Add 

little water and mix well until a thick batter is 

formed. 

4. Dip marinated lollipops in the batter and 

deep-fry in hot oil until golden. Drain on 

absorbent paper. 

5. Garnish with chopped spring onion greens 

and serve hot.

CHILLI PANEER 

LETTUCE CUPS 

INDO-CHINESE AUTUMN RECIPES 

FROM FATT PUNDIT 

INGREDIENTS 

• 200g paneer cut into cubes 

• Oil to deep fry 

• 2 tbsp. oil 

• 1 tbsp. garlic minced 

• 1 tbsp. ginger minced 

• 50g white onion finely chopped 

• 3 – 4 green chillies finely chopped 

• 1 tbsp. dark soy sauce 

• 1 tbsp. light soya sauce 


• ½ teaspoon black pepper 

• ½ teaspoon white pepper 

• 2 tbsp. cornflour 

• 1 tbsp. refined flour 

• 2 baby gem lettuce 

METHOD 

1. Separate the baby gem lettuce leaves and soak 

in cold water. 

2. Put paneer cubes in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon 

refined flour, 1 tablespoon cornflour, salt, and a 

little cold water, add the paneer to the batter and 

mix well and ensure the cubes are lightly coated. 

3. Heat sufficient oil in a wok, gently add the cubes 

of paneer into the frying oil, separating them with 

a spoon or tong if they are getting stuck together. 

Fry for 2-3 mins until lightly crispy, then drain on 

a paper towel. 

4. Heat 2 -3 tbsp. oil in a wok. Sauté the chopped 

ginger and garlic, green chillies as they are 

slightly fragrant add in the chopped white onions 

and sauté further for another 2 minutes. 

5. Add in the paneer and sauté for another minute 

be careful not to break them, add some water (50 

– 100ml) for the paneer to not stick to the pan. 

6. Add the soy sauce mix, sprinkle the white and 

black pepper powder and toss it all on a high 

flame 

7. Add ½ tbsp. of cornflour slurry, once mixed take 

it off the heat. 

8. Pat dry the lettuce leaves and spread them on a 

plate, the fill up the leaves with hot chilli paneer 

and they are ready to be served. 


C O U N T D O W N T O 

Christmas 

Hosting this festive season? We 

look at the timelines to get those 

all-important jobs done in time... 

K I T C H E N 

6 - 8 W E E K S 

If you’re looking for a complete kitchen 

replacement, you need to act quickly. Have your 

design in mind and consult your designer as soon 

as possible. These timelines are a rough guide: 

Production Time - 3-4 weeks 

Rip Out - 2-3 days 

First Fix (Electrics, Plumbing) - 2-3 days 

Fitting - 3-5 days 

Finishing Touches - allow 2-3 days for flooring, 

decorating etc 

Bear in mind additional days for moving appliances, 

heavier worktops (stone, quartz) which will require 

templating taking about 10 days. Discuss these 

timings at the time of ordering your kitchen. 

Nicholas Engert 

Interiors, Corvera 

Holophane Pendant 

Light, £128 

Higham Furniture - East Sheen - 

Traditional Shaker Kitchen 

T O P T I P 

Get the lighting right. Think about 

employing a lighting designer to 

ensure you have a good mix of wellplaced 

lights, like functional spots 

alongside atmospheric lighting like 

wall lights and pendants 

Walcot Runner Rug, £85, 

hauslife.co.uk; 

Guilla Solid Brass Angled 

Wall Light, £139, 

lightsandlamps.com 

Olive & Barr Handmade Shaker 

Kitchen Cabinetry 

T O P T I P 

Unless you have layout issues 

to address, you might find that 

you can refresh the cupboard 

doors and worktops instead of a 

whole replacement kitchen. This 

could be with new doors or even 

a respray in a fresh new colour. It 

has the added benefit of reducing 

upheaval and being quicker 


G U E S T 

B E D R O O M 

1 W E E K 

(LONGER WITH NEW FURNITURE) 

Whether your guest bedroom is palatial or 

the corner of a home office, there are lots 

of ways to make the space feel homely 

and relaxing. A paint refresh can be lovely, 

as can adding things like rugs. If you 

need a new bed or sofa bed, take heed of 

delivery timescales and allow a buffer. 

T O P T I P 

Try sleeping in the room to check for draughts and to 

see if the curtains sufficiently block light. Similarly, before 

choosing a new paint colour, make sure you’ve considered 

the aspect of the room: south facing rooms can cope with 

cooler colours, whilst north facing need warmer undertones 

Georgia Table Lamp, 

£52, hauslife.co.uk 

S L E E P E A S Y 

Create a luxury bedroom to rival any 5-star hotel. Comprising the 

same hotel bedding used by iconic boutique properties The Pigs, the 

‘Original’ radiates elegance from every fibre. The Original Staycation 

Bundle includes: Savoy Feather and Down duvet (4.5 or 10.5 tog), 

Savoy Duck Feather and Down Pillows (2 with Double, King or 

Superking and 1 with Single sets), Soft and Strong 400TC Fitted 

Sheet, Soft and Strong 400TC Duvet Cover with stylish ties for easy 

fastening- Soft and Strong 400TC Oxford Pillowcases (4 with Double, 

King and Superking and 2 with Single sets) and Cotton Zipped Pillow 

Protectors x 2, from £313.00, tielleloveluxury.co.uk 

The Cotswold Company 

Camille Limewash Oak 3 

Drawer Bedside Table, £399 

T O P T I P 

Create comfort - choose good 

quality bedding and bedlinen, 

offer layers with blankets. Make 

sure guests have access to a 

mirror and a reading light. You 

could really push the boat out 

and make sure they have extras 

like a hair-dryer, device chargers 

and a robe to slip on whilst they 

grab a cup of tea 

Luxury Hotel White Towels from 

£3, tielleloveluxury.co.uk 


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Roper Rhodes 

B A T H R O O M 

2 - 4 W E E K S 

The bathroom is the workhorse of the house, 

and combined with water damage, can require 

more regular maintenance than other spaces. 

The time for the works will depend on the 

extent of the project - replacing like for like is 

the easiest route, but changing locations of 

sanitary ware will increase the time. 

Meraki Kitt-Kat Blanco 

Wall Tiles, £38.95psm, 

wallsandfloors.co.uk 

Achilles Teal 

Tiles, £42.95, 

wallsandfloors.co.uk 

Mineral Finish Floor Tile, 

£52.95psm, wallsandfloors.co.uk 

T O P T I P 

Stool, £155, 

sweetpeaandwillow.com 

Alrik Wall Light, £54, 

darlighting.co.uk 

Storage 

Caddy, £125, 

nkuku.com 

New accessories can breathe 

fresh life into the space - storage 

helps make a space look more 

organised and tidy too 

T O P T I P 

Onyx Wallpaper, The 

Curious Department 

Sometimes you 

don’t need a whole 

overhaul. A fresh 

lick of paint or 

new wallpaper 

can make a huge 

difference 

Nkuku Spring Summer 

24 Bathroom 


D I N I N G 

Terre Verte Wall Paint Chalk Paint In Athenian 

Black, Annie Sloan 

1 - 2 W E E K S 

(LONGER WITH NEW FURNITURE) 

The heart of the festive celebrations, the 

dining table plays host to the hungry 

hordes. One way to transform the space 

is a redecorate - you could try ‘colour 

drenching’, taking the colour all over 

the woodwork and onto the ceilings, or 

panelling, for some visual interest on walls. 

If you are ordering new furniture be aware 

of long lead times! 

T O P T I P 

If you’re buying a new table, 

consider one that extends so 

it’s more convenient for the 

rest of the year when it only 

needs to sit immediate family 

Pulteney Dining Table 

Extends up to 2.5m, 

£1,249.95, hauslife.co.uk 

T O P T I P 

Investing in lovely tableware is a 

treat - why not buy pieces that 

aren’t overtly Christmassy, so 

you can use them throughout the 

year. That way, you can invest in 

timeless classics 

Left to right; Clementine Stoneware Side Plate 

(20cm dia), £12.99, giselagraham.co.uk; Eleanor 

Dinner Plate, £34, rebeccaudall.com; 

Alejandra Plate Mustard, £28, 

roseandgrey.co.uk 

Sophie Allport, Sophie Allport Robin Fabric Placemat 

Napkins Cushion Neutral Table Runner Christmas 

Table Setting, £11.5 


PLANNING 

When it comes to planting bulbs, we had to 

head to the expert Sarah Raven. See the full 

collection at sarahraven.com 

for Spring 

PERFECT FOR: COLOUR 

When these came into flower, a 

luxurious mix of colours, it’s that mix 

of feather and fascinator that sprung 

to mind! The pinky-purple ‘Queen 

Jewel’ brings it all to life. Don’t plant 

tulips until mid-late October. Plant 

pointy end up 1-15cm deep, 8cm 

apart in borders (less in containers). 

Wedding Hat Tulip Mix - 60 bulbs 

£44.50, 120 bulbs £75.50 

PERFECT FOR: 

SCENT 

Fill a corner of your cutting or 

veg patch with a line or block 

of these - every one powerfully 

and deliciously fragrant and 

with a better than usual 

staying power. 

Plant pointy end up, 10-15cm 

(4-6in) inches deep with three to 

four inches (8-10cm) between 

each bulb. Plant anytime from 

August-November. They are 

very tolerant bulbs. 

Swathes of Scent Drift Mix 

- 100 bulbs (1 square metre) 

£79.50 

PERFECT FOR: YEAR AFTER YEAR 

These green-flashed tulips come 

back year after year, flower for ages, 

have excellent weather resistance 

and last brilliantly in the vase. 

PERFECT FOR: 

INDOORS 

Follow planting advice from 

Wedding Hat Mix. 

Super Perennial Tulip Mix - 45 

bulbs £38.95, 90 bulbs £64.95 

PERFECT FOR: 

EARLY SUMMER 

There are certain alliums which fit 

perfectly and hugely enhance a 

border — their foliage is finer and 

their scale and drama just right 

to mix in, but not take over other 

things. That’s just what these three 

have in common. 

Plant 15cm (6in) deep, 2cm 

(8in) apart. These are perennial 

and long-lasting so plant them 

somewhere permanent. 

Perfect Border Allium Collection 

- 25 bulbs, £39.95 

These softly scented Narcissus are 

perfect for adding freshness and 

fragrance to the house in the dark 

winter days. Plant as soon as possible 

or keep somewhere cool and dark. If 

there is already a green shoot coming 

out of the bulb when you receive 

them, this should not be removed. 

Soft and Warm Scented Indoor 

Narcissus Collection - 15 bulbs 

£22.50, 45 bulbs £54.95 


WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE A WOOD BURNER? 

I was chatting with a good friend of mine recently. I’ll call him Colin 

to protect the guilty… (Actually his name is Colin). He’s a lovely 

chap, kind to children and animals, works hard for his family, but 

can sometimes be a little opinionated. Our meanderings turned to 

energy and heating, a common topic everywhere these days. ‘I seem 

to be paying a King’s ransom for my energy these days.’ says Colin, 

brooding over his pint. 

I mention my wood burner saying how efficient it is, and maybe 

he should think about getting one in his substantial house. ‘Why 

on earth would I want a wood burner?’ he blurts. With some 

belligerence I notice. Uh-oh, I thought, here we go. ‘Why on earth 

would you not?’ I retort, feeding him good naturedly. Maybe also a 

little mischievously I’ll admit. Taking the bait, he puts down his beer 

on the table and leans forward. 

‘Well for a start they are dirty smelly things. All that ash to deal with 

and faffing around with building the fire. Not for me thanks.’ 

‘Quite the opposite. Modern stoves are very clean burning and 

certainly not smelly. Setting a fire takes less than a minute, and you’d 

be amazed how little ash is generated. Maybe you’re thinking of your 

Grandmother’s open fire. You can’t compare the two.’ I decide to get 

my nerd out. ‘An Ecodesign-ready wood burner produces up to 90% 

less particulate emissions than an open fire and consumes 70% less 

logs for the same heat output. I could easily fit the ash from three or 

four firings into your beer glass. And you know how your wife loves 

gardening. Give her a beer glass of ash once or twice a week to 

sprinkle on the garden and she’ll have magnificent blooms. Full of 

natural fertiliser.’ 

‘Hmm. Well, the point is though it’s not very green is it? Burning 

down forests just to warm one room of your house.’ He leans back 

like a chess player after a particularly clever move. 

Why is he so ill-informed? He’s an intelligent guy, I don’t get it. 

‘Colin, the facts are incontrovertible. But before I spout off at you, 

you do know that a stove in just one room can heat the majority of 

your house?’ 

‘Really?’ he says again. He sits back up and I can see I’ve piqued his 

interest. ‘Really. It’s time for some facts my friend. Buy wood locally 

from sustainable well managed woodland and the cycle is as close 

to carbon neutral as you’re likely to get, because the CO2 absorbed 

by the tree as is grows is approximately the same as the CO2 

released when it burns. That cycle is limitless.’ 

‘I guess that makes sense.’ he admits. ‘I’d never looked at it that way 

before. What was that you said earlier, Ecodesign? What’s that?’ 

‘It’s a new range of stoves now available that meet the very strict 

latest emissions standards. Using a modern wood burning stove will 

save money on your central heating and you can enjoy a cosy wood 

fire which produces the least CO of any fuel. And,’ I say, raising a 

finger in the air, ‘I won’t have to listen to you moaning every time the 

price of gas goes up.’ 

‘Haha fair enough. Where can I go to see one?’ 


‘Visit ‘Iron and Wood’ in Kidlington or Banbury. Their showrooms 

have the latest Ecodesign stoves made by the best companies both 

from the UK and abroad.’ 

‘I will.’ He looks at me and smiles. ‘Anyway, who’s round is it?’ 

‘Mine.’ I confess ‘No let me get this one. It sounds like you might 

have saved me some of that King’s ransom. Same again?’ 

Ralph Jeffries 

Visit our showroom to discuss your 

new Wood Burning Stove 

Beaumont Road, Banbury, OX16 1RH 

(opposite Brewers) 

T: 01295 253936 

E: info@ironandwood.co.uk 

www.ironandwood.co.uk

Tips and advice on 

SLUMBERING STOVES 

Chimney Fire Safety Week is back for 2024. HETAS, 

independent not-for-profit organisation supporting cleaner 

and safer choices for the use of biomass and other solid 

fuels and appliances, warns of the danger of slumbering 

your stove... 

Chimney Fire Safety Week, supported by industry partners 

HETAS and Woodsure, aims to highlight simple steps you can 

take to significantly reduce the risk of a chimney fire in your 

home. 

A stove user recently made headlines as being the first to be 

fined by their local authority under new legislation falling under 

the Environment Act 2021 for producing excessive smoke in a 

Smoke Control Area (SCA). An SCA is an area designated by 

your local authority in which residents cannot release smoke from 

a chimney, or where only authorised fuels can be burnt, unless 

using a Defra exempt appliance. 

unless your appliance is specifically designed to be slumbered. 

Slumbering your wood burner can cause incomplete combustion, 

leading to an increased build-up of flammable deposits in your 

chimney, higher carbon monoxide levels, and an excessive 

amount of smoke. 

Consistently slumbering your stove significantly increases the 

likelihood of a chimney fire occurring. As more deposits of soot, 

tar, and creosote form, the chance of a deposit catching alight 

increases, potentially leading to a domino effect of these deposits 

igniting and your chimney bursting into flames. 

There are a number of actions that can cause your wood burner 

to produce large amounts of smoke – slumbering your stove is a Make sure your wood burner is the appropriate size for your 

common reason. 

room and never slumber your wood-burning stove unless it is 

specifically designed to do so. When slumbering a stove that 

Slumbering a stove is when you intentionally cause your wood is intended to be slumbered, always follow the manufacturer’s 

burner to run at a low output and burn slowly – usually overnight instructions to prevent a chimney fire in your home this winter. 

– with the purpose of not needing to relight your fire once you’ve 

THE HEAT STORE LT 

woken up in the morning. 

Operating your wood-burning stove correctly and not slumbering 

will ensure you are safely burning and will help to avoid potential 

Whilst it may sound tempting to slumber your stove, HETAS fines, while also keeping your home safe this heating season. 

– the industry-leading organisation promoting safe solid fuel 

burning practices – strongly advise that you should not do so For more information on HETAS, visit hetas.co.uk. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With over 45 years in the business we have t 

THE HEAT STORE LTD 

With over 45 years in the business we have the 

experience and we are here to help 

experience and we are here to help 

Wood Burning Stoves 

• Multi-fuel Wood Burning Stoves Stoves 

• Multi-fuel Stoves 

Gas Stoves Fires 

• Gas Stoves & Fires 

• Electric Stoves & Fires 

• Esse Esse Cookers 

• Servicing 

• Servicing Installations 

• Installations 

Chimneys & Flues 

• Maintenance 

• Problem solving 

• Chimneys Flue lining& Flues 

Maintenance 

Contact us at: 

2 Redditch Sweeping Road, Studley B80 7AX 

Tel: 01527 853622 

Problem solving 

Flue lining 

2 Church Street, Charlbury OX7 3PP 

Tel: 01608 819088 

Email: sales@heatstoreltd.co.uk 

www.heatstoreltd.co.uk 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 41 

Con 

2 Re 

Stud 

B80 

015 

We 

Em

A H E L P I N G H A N D 

How to assess the care needs of older relatives 

Caring for an older relative can be 

both rewarding and challenging, 

particularly when their needs change 

over time. Conducting a thorough 

care assessment is crucial in 

ensuring their safety, comfort, and 

well-being. This process involves 

evaluating their current living 

conditions, physical and emotional 

needs, and determining whether 

adjustments to the home, external 

support, or a potential move are 

necessary. Here’s a guide to help 

you navigate this sensitive process. 

EVALUATING 

THE HOME 

ENVIRONMENT 

The first step in assessing your 

relative’s care needs is to evaluate 

their home environment. Many older 

people wish to remain in their homes 

for as long as possible, so making 

improvements to their living space 

can often be a practical solution. 

Start by considering their mobility— 

can they move around the house 

safely? If stairs are becoming a 

challenge, consider installing a 

stairlift or converting a downstairs 

room into a bedrooml. Check for trip 

hazards, such as loose carpets or 

cluttered walkways, and ensure that 

lighting is adequate, especially in 

areas like the bathroom and kitchen. 

Next, assess whether adaptations 

such as grab rails in the bathroom, 

a walk-in shower, or non-slip 

flooring might help. Simple changes 

like these can significantly reduce 

the risk of falls, which are a 

common concern for older adults. 

Additionally, consider whether 

assistive technology, like personal 

alarms or motion sensors, could 

enhance their independence while 

providing peace of mind for you and 

your family. 

CONSIDERING 

SUPPORT FROM A 

CARE AGENCY 

If your relative’s needs extend 

beyond what home improvements 

can address, enlisting the support 

of a care agency might be the next 

step. Care agencies offer a range of 

services, from personal care (such 

as help with bathing and dressing) 

to domestic support, including 

cleaning and meal preparation. 

When choosing a care agency, it’s 

essential to ensure that the carers 

are trained, compassionate, and 

able to provide the level of care 

your relative requires. 

A good care agency will work with 

you to develop a personalised 

care plan tailored to your relative’s 

specific needs. This plan should be 

flexible, allowing for adjustments 

as their condition changes. Regular 

communication with the agency 

is vital to ensure that the care 

provided continues to meet your 

relative’s needs. 

Agencies can even offer live-in 

care, should a relative require 

more continuous support, whilst 

remaining in their own home. This 

can be a great option if local ties are 

important, or allowing couples to 

stay together. 

WHEN A MOVE 

MIGHT BE 

NECESSARY 

In some cases, despite improvements 

to the home and support from a 

care agency, it may become clear 

that staying at home is no longer the 

safest or most practical option. If your 

relative’s medical needs are complex, 

moving to a residential care home 

or a nursing home might be the best 

solution. These facilities provide a 

safe environment with professional 

staff available around the clock. 

Choosing a care home is a significant 

decision and should be made with 

careful consideration. Visit several 

homes, talk to staff, and try to involve 

your relative in the decision-making 

process as much as possible. The 

goal is to find a place where they 

will feel comfortable, supported, and 

where their needs will be fully met. 

CONCLUSION 

Assessing the care needs of 

an older relative is a sensitive 

task that requires a balanced 

approach. Whether through home 

improvements, support from a care 

agency, or considering a move, the 

priority should always be the safety, 

comfort, and well-being of your 

loved one. By carefully evaluating 

their situation and exploring all 

available options, you can help 

ensure they receive the best possible 

care tailored to their unique needs. 


Join us for 

our next 

events 

Highmarket House care home, Banbury 

Understanding dementia 

Wednesday 6th November, 2pm - 4pm 

Meet dementia expert Dr Nori Graham who will 

share her knowledge of dementia, how it can 

affect people as they age and what you can do 

to support a loved one. 

Millers Grange care home, Witney 

Friendship café 

Third Tuesday of each month, 2pm - 3.30pm 

Come along to our monthly friendship café. Join 

other local family carers, share your experiences 

and make new friends. Meet our friendly team, 

on hand to give helpful advice, learn more about 

the care and lifestyles on offer at Millers Grange 

and take a tour of our beautiful care home. 

Trusted to care 

To attend please call 

0330 818 7384

WARNING - 

YOUR DIET IS BAD 

FOR YOUR BRAIN 

How to upgrade your brain 

despite warnings that bad diets 

can be damaging 

By Patrick Holford, Foodforthebrain.org 

A report that has just been published in the Lancet, found that 

neurological diseases, from autism to Alzheimer’s, are affecting 

43% of the world’s population. The Federation of European 

Neuroscientists have declared a ‘brain health emergency’. The 

Times reports that two thirds of benefit claims are for mental health. 

Diagnoses of autism and ADHD are steadily increasing. 

But it’s not all doom and gloom! The good news is that a fightback 

is beginning. Recently, a virtual “Upgrade Your Brain” conference, 

organised by the charitable foodforthebrain.org, brought together 

leading neuroscientists - psychiatrists, nutritionists and neurologists 

from around the world - to brainstorm causes and solutions. They 

identified the four ‘horsemen of the mental health apocalypse’ lurking 

in our diet. 

Standard healthy eating advice rarely warns about them all. They are: 

• A lack of brain fats, notably omega-3 from seafood but also 

vitamin D; 

• Increased intake of sugar and ultra-processed foods; 

• A lack of the many antioxidants and polyphenols 

(micronutrients) found in spices, vegetables and fruits, 

especially berries; 

• Lack of B vitamins, notably B12, producing homocysteine, a 

brain toxic amino acid. 

It is not just nutritional deficiencies that are threatening our brains. 

The way we live can contribute to the damage “The combination of 

poor diet, lack of exercise, less intellectual and social stimulation, 

stress and insomnia creates a ‘perfect storm’ for the brain,” says 

neuroscientist Dr Tommy Wood at the University of Washington. 

A DEFENSIVE STRATEGY 

Wood is leading research at the charity foodforthebrain.org, 

which has developed a defensive strategy to protect the brain with 

nutritional and lifestyle changes. It starts by finding out just how well 

your brain is doing via a free online Cognitive Function Test followed 

up by personalised advice on how to reduce your dementia risk. 

Testing and lowering homocysteine is a key target of foodforthebrain. 

org’s prevention plan. Participants are sent a home test kit to 

measure blood levels of omega-3, homocysteine, HBA1c for sugar 

balance and vitamin D, lack of which is another contributor to 

dementia and depression. The charity aims to reach a million people 

in the largest ever ‘citizen science’ project and has tested 420,000 

so far. 

PREVENTION 

The idea that Alzheimer’s can be prevented is gaining support. The 

US National Institutes of Health have attributed 22% of the risk of 

Alzheimer’s to raised blood homocysteine and 22% to a lack of 

seafood and omega-3 fats. 

A recent study using UK Biobank data concluded that up to 72% of 

dementia cases could be prevented if all risk factors were targeted. 

“Even this is probably under-estimating the power of prevention.” 

says Professor David Smith from the University of Oxford, one of the 

study authors. “The number of preventable cases could be higher if 

a person’s omega-3 and B vitamin status, measured, by a blood test 

for homocysteine (not measured by the UK Biobank) were taken into 

account.” 

China’s leading prevention expert, Professor Jin-Tai Yu from 

Shanghai’s Fudan University, a co-author of this study, agrees. 

“Homocysteine-lowering treatment with vitamins, especially B12, is 

one of the most promising interventions for dementia prevention.” 

“The same diet changes that reduce the risk for dementia also help 

everything from ADHD to depression,” says charity founder Patrick 

Holford, author of new book, Upgrade Your Brain. “We need to 

engage with millions of people, get nutrition education happening in 

school, and most of all get heath authorities and governments around 

the world to take the mental health meltdown seriously and put brain 

health at the top of the health agenda.” 

Professor Crawford says, “Today’s diet bears no resemblance to the 

wild foods we ate during our species’ evolution to which our genome 

is adapted. As a consequence our brain size is shrinking. If we don’t 

prioritise brain health and nutrition the continued escalation of mental 

ill health, starting in the 1950s, can only end in disaster.” 

WHAT YOU CAN DO 

The group is also launching Alzheimer’s Prevention Day on May 

15th – see alzheimersprevention.info with a free 3-minute online 

Alzheimer’s Prevention Check to motivate people to make the eight 

brain friendly diet and lifestyle changes (see below). “You are the 

architect of your own brain’s future health.” says neurologist Dr David 

Perlmutter, another member of the group. 

To join the Upgrade Your Brain campaign; attend a seminar; take the 

Cognitive test to become a ‘citizen scientist’; listen to the recorded 

Upgrade Your Brain conference; or participate in Alzheimer’s 

Prevention Day, visit foodforthebrain.org/upgradeyourbrain.

High quality care 

in Oxfordshire 


At Highmarket House and Millers 

Grange care homes in Oxfordshire, 

our highly trained teams are experts 

in providing high quality care from 

residential, and dementia care, 

to short term care. Nursing care 

available to Highmarket House... 

Our purpose-built home offers luxurious facilities, including 

a coffee shop, hair salon, cinema and beautiful landscaped 

gardens. 

A LIFESTYLE TAILORED TO YOU 

At our ‘good’ rated homes we’ll support you to continue living 

your life the way you choose. We’ll learn all about your interests 

and preferences so we can create a fully personalised lifestyle 

plan that you’ll enjoy whether it’s gardening, cheese and wine 

socials or playing chess. 

TRUST US TO CARE 

Highmarket House and Millers Grange care homes in Oxfordshire 

are part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care 

provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care 

for over 40 years. 

CONTACT US 

To find out more about Highmarket House or Millers Grange call 

0330 173 4718 

Highmarket House 

North Bar Place, Banbury OX16 0TD 

Millers Grange 

Curbridge Road, Witney OX28 5HR 

Careuk.com/oxfordshire 

Will 

£ 

£ 

£ £ 

LPA 

Living 

Will 

£ 

Banbury Wills & Probate 

Part of Bicester Wills Ltd 

 

Standard Single Will - £225 

 

Standard Mirror Wills - £325 

 

Bloodline Wills - £625 

 

Lasting Power of Attorney 

Property & Financial Affairs - £325 

 

Lasting Power of Attorney 

Health & Welfare - £325 

 

Both Lasting Powers of Attorney - £500 

Paul and the Team 

offer a friendly 

estate planning 

service 

Phone us on 

01295 237400 

Home visits 

no extra 

charge!! 

 

Probate Assistance from - £1,800 

www.banburywillsandprobate.co.uk 

Telephone: 01295 237400 

paul@banburywillsandprobate.co.uk 


Private Healthcare 

In Banbury 

The New Foscote Hospital, a boutique 

private hospital in Banbury, Oxfordshire, 

is both clinician-owned and operated... 

of knowledge and expertise to The New Foscote Hospital. Each doctor is dedicated to off 

compassionate, patient-centred care, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment. 

highly skilled GPs is Dr. Basel Chamali: 

“What distinguishes The New Foscote Hospital is our boutique hospital, offering access t 

of specialists. Our Private GP service offers same-day appointments, with each consultati 

up to half an hour, ensuring you receive thorough and personalized care without feeling 

are dedicated to building lasting relationships ADVERTISING with our patients, FEATURE taking the time to unde 

unique health needs and providing continuous support. 

Our aim is to maintain your overall health by offering a comprehensive range of services 

your individual needs. We’re committed to providing a welcoming and supportive enviro 

where your health and well-being are our top priority.” 

Don’t wait any longer, you’re only a dial away from exceptional healthcare. 

Contact us today by calling 01295 252281 or email info@foscote.hospital. 

For more information visit www.thefoscotehospital.co.uk. 

Our expert team, supported by comprehensive in-house 

diagnostic facilities, ensures seamless care from consultation 

to discharge. We take pride in delivering exceptional 

healthcare with experience, integrity, and compassion for 

every patient. 

Collaborating with over 50 specialist consultants, we offer a 

wide range of treatments across more than 20 departments, 

including our Private GP service. 

Booking a GP appointment can be stressful, especially with 

urgent health concerns. However, our hospital provides 

flexible private appointments for timely prescriptions 

and specialist referrals, ensuring early intervention for 

better health outcomes. Our team of experienced GPs 

brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to The New 

Foscote Hospital. Each doctor is dedicated to offering 

compassionate, patient-centred care, ensuring you receive 

the best possible treatment. One of our highly skilled GPs is 

Dr. Basel Chamali: 

“What distinguishes The New Foscote Hospital is our 

boutique hospital, offering access to a number of specialists. 

Our Private GP service offers same-day appointments, with 

each consultation lasting up to half an hour, ensuring you 

receive thorough and personalized 

care without feeling rushed. We 

are dedicated to building lasting 

relationships with our patients, 

taking the time to understand your 

unique health needs and providing 

continuous support. 

Our aim is to maintain your overall health by offering a 

comprehensive range of services tailored to your individual 

needs. We’re committed to providing a welcoming and 

supportive environment where your health and well-being are 

our top priority.” 

Don’t wait any longer, you’re only a dial away from 

exceptional healthcare. Contact us today by calling 

01295 252281 or email info@foscote.hospital. For more 

information visit www.thefoscotehospital.co.uk. 

Roses Care Services 

‘Putting People First, Quality Guaranteed’ 

Requires 

Care Workers 

to join our domiciliary care business 

We are currently recruiting Carers to provide care in the 

community to enable people to live independently in 

their own homes in Banbury and surrounding district. 

Full and part-time positions available for qualified carers 

but not essential as a full training programme is available 

to new recruits. 

• Day, Evening and Weekend Work available 

• Excellent Rates of Pay including Pension and other 

fringe benefits 

• Generous mileage allowance 

• Relocation Support Offered 

Contact Marlene Lines or Sarah Tagg 

01265 810711 or 07912 045094 

Email: marlene@rosecare.co.uk 


The New Foscote Hospital, a boutique private hospital in 

Banbury, Oxfordshire, is clinician-owned and operated. 

Fast access to appointments. 

Consultation, diagnosis and treatment - complete solution in one location. 

Newly refurbished, state of the art surgical theatres. 

Offering treatments to insured, self-pay, and NHS patients referred 

through the e-RS system. 

Free on-site parking with EV chargers available. 

Treatments, tests and scans for inpatients & outpatients include: 

Private 

GPs 

Endoscopy Physiotherapy MRI facility 

Get in touch to book an appointment, for further information, or to ask any 

question you wish. 

The New Foscote Hospital, 2 Foscote Rise, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 9XP 

info@foscote.hospital 01295 252281 www.thefoscotehospital.co.uk

Kitchen 

e MAKEOVERS 

Transform Your 

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01865 684 089 

www.kitchenmakeovers.co.uk

Banbury Living Oct - Nov 2024

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