Fairies Hill Moorings - Reflect Magazine

free 

Celebrate 

St George’s Day 

with a delicious 

Victoria sponge 

Issue 066 

Fairies Hill Moorings 

There’s nothing more relaxing than cruising Britain’s inland 

waterways and where better to start from than Fairies Hill 

Moorings in west Yorkshire. For more info, visit 

www.fairies-hill-moorings.co.uk or turn to page 12 

Get your tickets for the 

British Fly Fair 

International 

Visit the 

Spirit Of Summer Fair 

at Olympia, London 

See this issue online at www.reflect-magazine.co.uk

02 Yorkshire Dales Cottage 

Tiger Awareness 03 

A Home-From-Home In 

The Yorkshire Dales 

If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy the great British 

outdoors, be it walking, cycling or fishing, Reflect would 

like to recommend the peace and tranquillity on offer at 

Yorkshire Dales Cottage in the hamlet of Millthorp, three 

quarters of a mile from the charming market town of 

Sedbergh. Situated within easy reach of the Lake District 

and the Yorkshire Dales, this stone-built cottage sleeps up 

to four and is owned by Jane Garner. 

Tiger Awareness is a UK charity that helps at ground level in India. 

We help in man - animal conflict working with local NGOs 

and supporting forest departments. 

Jane told Reflect: “My late mum bought the cottage about 20 years 

ago. She bought it from the previous lady owner who was selling as the 

whole row of cottages were at risk of being condemned. Mum bought 

the cottage with this rick hanging over her, but lucky the cottages were 

saved. “The cottage was renovated and updated and today boasts an 

open-plan living/kitchen area, which is decorated in a modern style with 

essential appliances, such as fridge/freezer, oven washing machine. The 

living area also boasts a real fireplace for those cold evenings, whilst the rest 

of the cottage benefits from central heating; the windows within this space 

overlook the small garden and the rolling countryside beyond. 

The cottage has retained many original features, such as the fireplace and 

beams, which complement the country-cottage style décor of the master 

bedroom, which boasts a double bed. There is also a sofa bed downstairs. 

Finally, there’s a bathroom with a shower. 

“Outside, the enclosed and secluded garden has a grassy area, which is 

ideal for children or dogs to play. There’s garden furniture and breathtaking 

views over the surrounding countryside.If you appreciate peace and 

tranquillity, this really is the place to be!” 

Jane’s charming cottage is located in the hamlet of Millthorp, five miles 

from Junction 37 of the M6 in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Within 

a 10-mile radius of the cottage, holidaymakers will find a whole host of 

attractions, activities and countryside to explore. The market town of 

Sedbergh boasts all the facilities you could need, with a butcher, Post 

Office, grocers, pubs, cafes, restaurants, and even a tourist information 

centre. It also has a delightful bookshop, a haven for bookworms, after all, 

Sedbergh is known as ‘the book town’. 

Jane added: “The cottage makes a great base from which to explore this 

wonderful area of the UK. Not only are you perfectly placed to explore the 

Yorkshire Dales, you can also easily get to the Lake District and the Howgill 

Fells, a small group of hills in Cumbria providing long distance views of the 

Pennines and Morecombe Bay. The area is great for almost everyone: dogs 

and their owners will love the array of walks for all levels around the area, as 

will keen ramblers who flock to the area to walk The Dales Way. Fishermen 

will enjoy the challenges of the River Rawtley whilst cyclists will love the 

challenges that the dramatic landscape of the Dales and Lakes presents.” 

Linen and towels are provided. Prices start from £100 for a long weekend 

(Friday to Monday) rising to £350 for week. A £50 discount is available for 

senior citizens. Jane has a life-long passion for travelling, as she explained: 

“I’ve always loved visiting new places and meeting new people but if it 

hadn’t been for my mum, my family would never had owned our beloved 

campervan. We looked at a brand new V.W. Camper in Manchester many 

years ago but brand new it cost £35,000, money we just didn’t have! So 

we went to Leisuredrive in Kearsley, near Bolton and purchased one of 

their campervans, converted from ordinary vehicles, including vans and 

ambulances. Our campervan has taken us all over the UK, into France, 

Germany and as far as Sorrento in Italy. Mum and I have toured and 

travelled together for many years; the campervan is like our second home. 

We’re off to Cornwall in it within the next couple of weeks. It’s so much fun 

and offers so much freedom.” 

For more information on Jane’s cottage, 

please call 01942 216058 or 07792 445257. 

You can find out more about our work or donate at 

www.tigerawareness.co.uk. We are also on Facebook and Twitter.

There’s nothing more relaxing than cruising Britain’s inland 

waterways and where better to start from than Fairies Hill 

Moorings in west Yorkshire. For more info, visit 

www.fairies-hill-moorings.co.uk or turn to page?? 

free 

Celebrate 

St George’s Day 

with a delicious 

Victoria sponge 

Issue 066 

Fairies Hill Moorings 

Get your tickets for the 

British Fly Fair 

International 

Visit the 

Spirit Of Summer Fair 

at Olympia, London 

See this issue online at www.reflect-magazine.co.uk 

Front cover image courtesy of 

Fairies Hill Mooring Ltd 

www.reflect-magazine.co.uk 

07 

©VisitBritain/ Britain On View 

Editor: 

Accounts: 

Feature Writers: 

Graphic Designer: 

Elaine Ellis 

elaine@reflect-magazine.co.uk 

0116 262 8096 

Anthony Klak 

accounts@reflect-magazine.co.uk 

0116 251 5919 

Laura Hyde 

editorials@reflect-magazine.co.uk 

0116 251 7385 

Mandeep Kaur 

design@reflect-magazine.co.uk 

0116 251 7385 

Image courtesy of Tiger Awareness 

08 

03 


16 

Sales: 

Sue Lees 

0116 262 8096 

Distribution: 

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Printed by: 

To subscribe: 

Self Select Distribution 

Reflect Magazine Ltd 

Spectrum Printers Services 

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to Reflect Magazine call 

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14 

Contents 

Web Design: 

Write to us: 

Paul Tipton at Q Creative Design 

paul@qcreativedesign.co.uk 

0116 251 7298 

REFLECT MAGAZINE 

3rd Floor Office, 

29-35 St Nicholas Place, 

Leicester LE1 4LD 

©VisitBritain/ Rod Edwards 

02 Yorkshire Dales Cottage 

03 Tiger Awareness 

08 Spirit Of Summer Fair 

10 Derby Theatre 

16 Touring Scotland 

18 Holidays 

Name & Registered Office: 

Company Number: 

REFLECT MAGAZINE LIMITED 

Allen House, Newarke Street, 

Leicester LE1 5SG 

6979106 

Image courtesy of Spirit Of Summer Fair 

Follow us on Twitter @reflect_mag 

06 St George’s Day Recipe 

07 British Fly Fair International 

12 Fairies Hill Mooring Ltd 

14 The Crick Boat Show 

20 The Perfect Day 

22 Cotswold Wedding Video 

& Photography

06 St George’s Day Recipe British Fly Fair International 07 


Get Hooked 

Celebrate 

St George 

With A 

Scrumptious 

Victoria 

Sponge 

On Fishing 

Sometimes we all need a little time to ourselves, to relax and unwind, and fishing 

offers an unrivalled chance for us to experience the calmness of the water and enjoy 

the great outdoors. 

One of the gentlest outdoor pursuits, it’s certainly easy to see the appeal of fishing. 

One of the major appeals of angling is that it allows young and old, male and 

female, able bodied and disabled to compete on equal terms. Newcomers will find it 

fairly easy to pick up too. It’s also an extremely rewarding hobby, one that is easy to 

learn and, as there are no specialist skills involved, it’s great for kids too. 

Mainly conducted on lakes, rivers and reservoirs, fly fishing is seen as the most 

challenging type of fishing, as it involves using artificial flies and special casting 

techniques to lure the fish to the bait. It can be done on freshwater for pike, perch 

and zander, or saltwater for bass, pollock and mullet. 

For many of us, it appears that St George’s Day is just another 

normal day, falling on the 23rd April every year - acknowledged 

but not celebrated; in fact, you’re more likely to celebrate 

another nationalities national day! 

Despite St George being our patron saint since the 14th Century, 

only one in five of us realise when the day falls - 23rd April - and 

shockingly more than 25% of us living in England don’t even 

know who our patron saint is (www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch. 

uk/customs/stgeorge.html). 

The legend of St George describes a town that was regularly 

terrorised by a fearful dragon - everyday the dragon demanded 

the sacrifice of a young and beautiful maiden. By the time 

George heard of this, all the girls in the town had been killed, all 

except for the King’s daughter, who was to be sacrificed the very 

next day. The only hope for her survival was if a knight could slay 

the dragon; this was George’s job. George rode into the valley 

where the dragon was living, hoping to slay it. The dragon was 

big and terrifying, and yet George was not 

afraid. He fought with the dragon 

and eventually, he killed 

it. As a result, the 

town was left at 

peace. 

Our 

English flag originates from Saint George, as he is shown in 

many pictures slaying the dragon, with a white shield and a red 

cross. 

So, that’s how the story goes; but, the real St George is far from 

an heroic dragon slayer - in fact, St George isn’t even English at 

all! The real St George was born in Turkey in the third century. 

He became a Roman solider but protested against Rome’s 

persecution of Christians. For this act, he was tortured and 

imprisoned, but he remained faithful to his faith. Eventually, he 

was beheaded for his beliefs and is now popularly known for his 

bravery, honour and gallantry. 

Our resident Chef, Neil Walker of Appetite at Abbey Leisure & 

Sports Club in Leicester, has come up with a traditional English 

recipe for everyone to enjoy this St George’s Day… 

“Queen Victoria adopted the craze for afternoon tea parties – 

and it was her honour that this simple, two-layer sponge cake 

was named after her during her time at Osbourne House on 

the Isle of Wight. 

I can’t think of a more quintessential 

English cake. Ok, so it doesn’t 

adhere to the traditional 

‘Women’s Institute’ 

method, but it’s much 

easier – 

and if any ladies from the W.I. would like to challenge me at 

their Victoria Sandwich cook-offs – I’m game! 

You could always substitute the filling for freshly whipped cream 

and strawberries, or lemon curd, or even orange marmalade. It’ll 

keep in an airtight container for two to three days.” 

Sponge Ingredients: 

200g caster sugar 

200g butter (room temperature) 

200g self-raising flour, sifted 

4 free-range medium eggs, beaten 

1 level teaspoon baking powder 

2 tablespoons milk 

Filling Ingredients: 

100g butter (room temperature) 

140g icing sugar, sifted – plus a little extra for decoration 

340g jam 

Vanilla extract, few drops 

Method: 

1. Pre-heat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 5. 

2. Grease and line two 20cm sandwich tins. 

3. In a large bowl, beat all the cake ingredients together until 

you have a smooth, soft batter. 

4. Divide between the two tins, smooth the surface with a 

spatula and bake in the oven for approx 15-20 minutes, until 

golden brown and the cake springs back when pressed. 

5. After 5 minutes cooling time, turn onto a cooling rack and 

leave to cool completely. 

6. Whilst the sponges are cooling, to make the filling, beat the 

butter until smooth and creamy. Then gradually beat in the icing 

sugar and vanilla. 

7. Spread the butter cream over the bottom of one of the 

sponges, top it with jam and sandwich the second sponge on top. 

8. Dust with a little icing sugar just before serving. 

Delicious! 

Now you know the legend, and truth, behind our patron saint, 

St George, make sure you take some time on Monday April 

23rd to celebrate everything he achieved, and maybe make 

a delicious Victoria Sandwich whilst you’re at it. For more 

information, please log onto www.stgeorgesday.com 

Neil can be found at Appetite within 

Abbey Sports & Leisure Club, 70 Slater Street 

(off Frog Island), Leicester LE3 5AS. 

Packington Trout Fishery 

Superb fly fishing in the heart of The Midlands 

Day tickets available on Cocks Close 

Ticket prices: 

£29.50 five fish - £21.50 two fish 

Concessions for senior citizens and juniors 

Great value season tickets available for all our members-only waters: 

Great Pool, Hall Pool and Park Meadow 

Contact: 01676 522754 

penny@packingtonfisheries11.wanadoo.co.uk 

Coarse fishing also available at: 

Packington Somers Fishery 01676 523833 

www.packingtonestate.net 

Packington Trout Fisheries, Meriden, Warwickshire 

Ellerdine Lakes 

• Shropshire’s premier small 

water trout fishery 

• Good average size of fish 

• Tackle shop & café 

• Open 8am til dusk 

If you’re already hooked on fly fishing, Reflect would like to encourage you to 

visit The British Fly Fair International, taking place at The Staffordshire County 

Showground is located 2 miles from junction 14 of the M6 motorway just outside 

Stafford. From June 23rd until 24th, The Staffordshire County Showground will 

welcome an array of exhibitors promising a great day out for angling enthusiasts. 

The show opens at 9:30am and closes at 4:30pm. Prices for a ticket have been held 

steady for another year, costing £10 for one day and £17 for two days. Children aged 

15 and under go FREE when accompanied by an adult. Save money and beat the 

queues, book your tickets now, call 01782 388382. For more info, visit 

www.bffi.co.uk 

Fishing is one of the few sports that can be enjoyed all year round in any location, 

as there are different species to catch during each season, such as fly fishing for wild 

brown trout during spring, casting for carp during summer or sea fishing for cod in 

the autumn. However, there are certain rules on when you can enjoy certain types 

of fishing, so it’s always best to check before you cast your line. For those planning 

on fishing for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels, a rod licence is vital, but if you 

are planning on using an angling club, you will also need a fishing permit, which 

gives you permission to fish their waters. For more information, visit 

www.environment-agency.gov.uk 

Fishing has numerous health benefits, even if you do go home empty-handed. 

Not only is fishing one of the most relaxing sports, giving our bodies and minds 

the chance to relax, it also enables us to get out of the house and into the great 

outdoors. Here, the sun can warm your skin (don’t forget to wear sunscreen, even 

on dull, cloudy days) and fresh air will fill your lungs. Sunlight is a great source 

of vitamin D and the trees surrounding the river, lake or loch will provide a high 

oxygen intake. Fishing is great light exercise too. It’s not strenuous but provides an 

excellent upper body workout, especially if you plan on casting a fishing rod all 

day long. 

Bob Goble 

G.A.I.C – L2CCA 

Licensed Game-Angling Instructor 

Friendly, relaxed tuition for beginners & improvers. 

One-to-one or groups. 

Corporate days arranged. 

If you’ve got any feedback on this recipe, nutrition questions, or 

ideas you’d like to share, why not email 

appetite@abbeysports.co.uk. 

Contact: Edward 07860 299342 

or Jayne 07740 257585 

enquiries@ellerdinelakes.co.uk 

www.ellerdine-lakes.co.uk 

Tel: 01474 352653 

Mob: 07743 054711 

Email: robert.goble@blueyonder.co.uk

08 Spirit Of Summer Fair 

09 

09 

Save the Date for The Spirit of Summer Fair 2012 

in association with House & Garden 

If you love discovering something a little bit different and need some unique inspiration for stylish 

summer living, visit the Spirit of Summer Fair, in association with House & Garden, from 16th – 19th 

May. Find an innovative, handpicked collection of original products that you won’t find on the High 

Street, as well as a wealth of stylish seasonal ideas. 

Returning to Olympia, London, it’s the perfect day out to discover new trends for 

summer 2012 and creative ideas for the home and garden. Thornback & Peel’s 

hand-printed textiles are the perfect whimsical addition to any summer home, or 

indulge in some of Charcoal & Grey’s handmade cushions, created with fabrics 

sourced from around the world. 

Over 300 handpicked boutiques will be on hand with some fabulous ideas for 

summer, such as stunning swimwear from Areti Patmos, beachwear for the whole 

family from Starblu, beautiful childrenswear by Chateau de Sable and Juliet and 

the Band, brilliantly innovative toys and games to keep the little ones entertained 

throughout the long summer months! 

Be sure to visit the Summer Lifestyle Workshop to partake in inspiring talks and 

workshops including the Laurent-Perrier Rose Party with florist Ercole Moroni and 

master perfumer Roja Dove to the most delightful summer dining ideas from the 

head chefs at The Ivy, J Sheekey, Daphne’s and Le Caprice. Sample summer 

delicacies from the food and wine connoisseurs on offer in The Food Hall and don’t 

forget to pay a visit to the Great Taste Awards Theatre to discover gastronomic 

delights from some of Britain’s best artisan producers - The Carved Angel’s 

mouthwatering chutneys are an essential for any summer barbecue, and award 

winning meats from Aubrey & Allen. Continue the Alfresco dining throughout the 

Summer months with a choice of the finest wines from Charles Mitchell. 

The hugely popular Interior & Garden Theatre returns with a host of talks from some 

of the industry’s leading experts-including Rabi Hage speaking on collectables in 

design and interiors plus Nina Campbell on design inspiration. Experts from Jo 

Malone will be exciting visitors with the launch of their three room scents. 

For a stylish dining experience like no other, visit Mosimann’s Summer Restaurant, 

offering the finest summer cuisine perfectly accessorised with a glass of crisp 

champagne or two to add a touch of sparkle to a wonderful day. 

Opening Times: 

Wednesday 16th May 

10am - 6pm 

Thursday 17th May 

10am - 6pm 

Friday 18th May 

10am - 6pm 

Saturday 19th May 

10am - 6pm 

TICKET PRICES: 

Adult £16. Child £8 

(13 - 16 years). 

Child under 

12 years FREE 

Ticket hotline 

0844 412 4623 

For more information visit 

www.spiritofsummerfair.co.uk

10 Derby Theatre 

11 

Derby Theatre Presents… 

THE CEMETERY CLUB 

A comedy by Ivan Menchell from Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th April 

You’ll die laughing! 

From Monday 23rd until Saturday 28th 

April, Ian Dickens Productions Ltd. will 

present the gloriously funny comedy, The 

Cemetery Club starring Anne Charleston, 

who is known to millions for her roles 

as Madge Bishop in the Australian soap 

opera Neighbours and Lily Butterfield in 

Emmerdale, iconic film and television 

actress, Shirley-Anne Field, well-loved 

British stage and screen star, Anita Harris 

and established television and stage actress 

Debbie Norman, whose characters are all 

affected when they meet widower Sam, 

played by veteran The Bill actor, Peter Ellis 

who played Chief Inspector Brownlow for 

sixteen years. 

Ida, Lucille and Doris are part of a club – the cemetery club. Every month 

they meet at Ida’s New York house for tea, and then trundle off to the 

cemetery to remember the good times and gossip with their late husbands. 

Lucille fancies herself as a flamboyant swinger, Doris is a traditional 

matronly widow and Ida is somewhere in between. When Sam, a butcher, 

meets the widows at the cemetery while he is visiting his wife’s grave, he 

changes their lives forever. 

This touching play about three superannuated, feuding Jewish women 

is funny, wise and gloriously witty- think Steel Magnolias meets The 

Golden Girls. This charming and touching production from Ian Dickens 

Productions Ltd. follows the great success of the recent critically acclaimed 

productions of The Woman in White and Death by Fatal Murder. 

Tickets: adults £8 - £21, concessions £8 - £19 

YES, PRIME MINISTER 

Yes, please to West End smash-hit political comedy coming to Derby! 

Monday 30th April to Saturday 5th May 

The smash-hit political stage comedy, Yes, Prime Minister, direct from the 

West End, will run at Derby Theatre for one week only from Monday 30th 

April until Saturday 5th May. This comedy hit will star Graham Seed (The 

Archers) and Michael Simkins (Mamma Mia, Above Suspicion). The original 

writers of the classic BBC TV series, Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn, have 

reunited for this anniversary production. 

Graham Seed is best known for his role as Nigel Pargetter in BBC Radio 

Four’s The Archers since 1983. Among his many TV appearances he has starred 

as Jorkins in the TV series, Brideshead Revisited and Britannicus in I, Claudius. 

His more recent TV credits include Spielberg’s Band of Brothers and Midsomer 

Murders. Seed has featured in numerous stage productions, from the National 

tour of Journey’s End to the Accolade earlier this year. 

An associate member of RADA, Michael Simkins has made numerous film 

and television appearances as well as starring as Billy Flyn in Chicago from 

2007. His career in the West End has seen him featuring in Mamma Mia, The 

King and I and Off West End in Harold Pinter’s The Old Masters and Terence 

Rattigan’s Less than Kind. For TV, Michael has played a regular character in 

Foyle’s War, as well as featuring in TV dramas such as A Touch of Frost, Judge 

John Deed and, most recently, Above Suspicion: Silent Scream. His film credits 

include Wilde and V for Vendetta. 

Please note: contains scenes of an adult nature. 


London Classic Theatre presents 

EQUUS 

In a Hampshire stable, a youth blinds six horses with a metal spike. 

Tuesday 8th until Saturday 12th May 

gradually gains Alan’s trust and the truth begins to emerge. As Alan struggles 

to be free of his demons, he must first relive the events of that terrible night. 

Inspired by a true story, Peter Shaffer’s unique psychological thriller explores 

the complex relationships between worship, myth and sexuality. Following in 

the footsteps of the immense success enjoyed by the play’s West End revival 

in 2007, Shaffer’s powerful, absorbing drama tours the UK in Autumn 

2011, with a vibrant new ensemble breathing fresh life into this theatrical 

masterpiece. 

Equus was originally staged in 1973 at the Royal National Theatre, London. 

In 1977, a film adaptation of the play was released starring Richard Burton 

and Peter Firth. In 2007, the play was revived in the West End for the first 

time since its première, in a critically-acclaimed production starring Daniel 

Radcliffe and Richard Griffiths. Peter Shaffer was born in 1926. His awardwinning 

plays include The Royal Hunt of the Sun (1964), Black Comedy 

(1965) and Amadeus (1979). Equus won the Tony Award and New York 

Critics Circle Award for Best New Play in 1977. 

In 2010, London Classic Theatre celebrated ten years on tour, having 

performed to over 300,000 people at more than 150 theatres and arts centres 

around the UK and Ireland. The company, led by founder and Artistic 

Director Michael Cabot, produces challenging, accessible drama for audiences 

in London and the regions. LCT has explored the work of some of the finest 

playwrights of the last fifty years, including Joe Orton, Harold Pinter, Brian 

Friel and Mike Leigh. They have also staged more challenging work, with 

national tours of two plays by Marivaux, Bryony Lavery’s Frozen and a further 

two UK premières, Nightfall by Joanna Murray-Smith and Love in the Title 

by Hugh Leonard. Most recently, from Feb - June 2011, LCT toured two plays 

at the same time with its Modern Takes Season of European Classic drama, 

featuring productions of Patrick Marber’s After Miss Julie and Ibsen’s Ghosts 

in a new version by Frank McGuinness. 

London Classic Theatre tours its work to venues of all scales and sizes, from 

arts centres and studio spaces to No. 1 and repertory theatres. The company 

has never received any funding or sponsorship for its work. In spite of this 

they have built and maintained relationships with many of the most respected 

repertory theatres and touring venues in the UK and Ireland and continue to 

produce theatre of the highest quality. 

Equus contains strong language, adult themes and nudity. 


In a world of spin, Blackberrys and ‘sexed up’ dossiers, the PM is staring 

disaster in the face. The country is on the brink of financial meltdown and 

the Government’s only apparent salvation comes from a morally dubious 

deal with the Foreign Minister of Kumranistan. Will Jim Hacker and his 

team of advisors be able to rescue the country from the edge? 

Convicted of this appalling crime, seventeen-year-old Alan Strang is sent to 

a secure psychiatric hospital. Martin Dysart, the child psychiatrist assigned 

to him, begins to probe Alan’s past in an attempt to understand his motives. 

Initially the boy is silent and uncooperative, but as Dysart digs deeper, he 

For more information on any of these 

shows or to book tickets, please call the 

Derby Theatre Box Office on 

01332 593939 or visit 

www.derbytheatre.co.uk

12 Fairies Hill Mooring Ltd 

13 

Fairies Hill Moorings: 

Created By Boaters, For Boaters 

Providing safe and secure moorings on the Aire & 

Calder Navigation in a quiet and picturesque corner 

of west Yorkshire, Fairies Hill Moorings is a familyfriendly 

site located between two locks, one filled in, 

on the site of the old coal wharf. The site has been 

transformed over the last 10 years. 

Reflect spoke to Mel Smith from Fairies Hill Moorings, to find out 

more. He said: “The Aire & Calder Navigation has always 

been an important waterway. For many years, it carried 

large commercial barges (transporting sand) inland 

directly from the sea. It is a commercial waterway, with a 

heavy leisure craft presence. However, as with many of 

the nation’s waterways, Fairies Hill Cut fell into disrepair; 

it became overgrown and underused by the end of the 

1990s. The regeneration of the site began in early 2000, 

when the old line of the Aire and Calder navigation at 

Whitwood Wharf was dredged; this created a very basic 

place for people to moor their boats. Wendy and Peter 

Hardwick took over the lease of the mooring site from 

British Waterways on the 1st of July in 2010 and since 

then, we have come up with a four-year business plan to 

transform the site into somewhere people really want to 

stay. 

the back of the big hill that’s onsite, allowing visitors to wander and 

see a vast array of wildlife for themselves; there are few marinas that 

can offer visitors the chance to see a herd of deer from the river 

bank. We’ve even had a pair of black swans visit the site; we really 

do welcome a vast array of animal and birdlife, including herons, 

kingfishers and ducks. I think this is what makes us unique; we’re 

located at the end of a lane, so we’re secluded yet within easy 

reach of nearby towns and we’re not on a main waterways course, 

so chugging along our waterways is even more peaceful than other 

areas of the country. We’re not as well-known as other areas, but 

again I think this makes us the ONLY place to enjoy a quiet and 

relaxing holiday. In fact, due to our unique location, you can travel 

for two hours before you hit a lock, allowing you to truly sit back and 

watch the world cruise by.” 

“Two years in to our plan and everything is on track and 

running smoothly. We’re ploughing every penny of the 

income back into the business. When Wendy and Peter 

took over, they started with 20 boats moored here, but in 

just two years, we’ve increased that to 60. It’s not about 

generating more income; for us, it’s about creating 

somewhere special, somewhere people want to be, 

which is why we’re ploughing every penny back into the 

business. We have the drive and ambition to transform 

Fairies Hill into somewhere special but we want to do it 

without loans and debt. Everyone here understands that 

and supports us. We all support one another in fact; we’re 

like a large family and there’s a real sense of community 

here; everyone helps one another without being in each 

other’s pockets. 

“We have plans to take the marina further in the future, so 

although we initially had a four-year plan, we’re planning 

so much more. We’re in talks with British Waterways at the 

moment. The future is very exciting.” 

Fairies Hill Moorings not only boasts moorings for up to 70 boats, 

mains water connections and a children’s play area, it’s also home 

to an unrivalled abundance of wildlife, such as deer, kingfishers, 

ducks and swans; a pair of black swans have even visited in the 

past. 

Fairies Hill Moorings is home to The White Rose Boat Club, who hold 

three or four events at the site each year. Mel explained: “The 

Club moved their base to here a few years ago as a lot of their 

members were already moored here. We’ve had a stage built on 

the river bank for The Club’s events, which are always a big hit, with 

members, site residents and visitors.” 

Tucked away in a picturesque and serene area of west Yorkshire, 

Fairies Hill Moorings also attracts a lot of non-human visitors, as Mel 

explained: “We welcome a whole host of flora and fauna to the 

site on a regular basis. We have created some great paths around 

For further details, please contact Mel Smith or Wendy or Peter Hardwick today 

Tel: 01924 223712 Web: www.fairies-hill-moorings.co.uk Email: info@fairies-hill-moorings.co.uk

14 The Crick Boat Show 

15 

The UK’s premier waterways event takes place at the picturesque Crick Marina (just off 

Junction 18 of the M1) from 2nd – 5th June. Crick Boat Show offers a fantastic day out 

for all the family with boat trips, live music, children’s entertainment, food and drink 

stalls, competitions, food demonstrations, evening ghost tours, seminars and over 200 

exhibitors, from boat builders, waterway accessories and services to arts, crafts, holidays 

and gourmet food specialists. 

Far removed from the pace of modern life, a narrowboat holiday is the perfect way to 

unwind. Making your way slowly through the British countryside in your floating home 

you have the freedom to go as you please. No rush (as speeds are limited to 4mph), no 

pressure, just mile after mile of beautiful canals (originally created to transport goods 

across the country) to explore. There’s always a new view to experience around the 

next bend, something new to discover and something for the kids to explore; it’s a truly 

relaxing holiday. 

In fact, research carried out last year by Towergate Bakers Insurance found that from the 

five most popular holidays enjoyed by Brits, a canal boat holiday came in at a surprising 

fifth place. With this type of holiday being described as ‘the fastest way to slow down’, it’s 

easy to see why so many Brits are opting for this kind of holiday. 

Crick Boat Show highlights include: 

Discover The Crick Boat Show 

June 2nd to 5th at Crick Marina 

services, associations and businesses, it’s an essential part of the Crick Boat Show 

experience. 

• The Boats 

The colourful boats set the scene at Crick Boat Show. With several dozen floating boats 

within the marina, and a dozen or so land-based boats, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Be sure 

to climb aboard a few and take a look inside for an insight into life on the waterways. 

Presented by national and local boat builders and brokers, the narrowboats on display 

form the heart of the show. 

• Around the Marina 

A feast of boating expertise awaits you on the quayside with high quality exhibitors from 

every field, whose large marquees welcome you inside to browse and chat. Make sure 

you take the opportunity to talk to all the experts and find out more about what they 

have to offer. 

• Show Village 

The Show Village is a bustling outdoor area of the show with a large number of 

exhibitors. Located adjacent to the main food court, it’s the ideal area to enjoy a gentle 

post-lunch stroll. The Show Village is also a great place to pick up some exclusive showonly 

offers and bargains. 

©VisitBritain/ Rod Edwards 

• For the Children 

The Crick Boat Show 2012 will boast a variety of children’s activities, entertainment 

and experiences. Traditional rides and games for children of a variety of ages, plus fun 

entertainers who’ll amuse the whole family will be provided, as will educational areas 

for children throughout the show, in order to encourage the Show’s youngest visitors to 

leave the show knowing that little bit more about Britain’s inland waterways. 

• Kingfisher Boating Marquee 

The backbone of Crick Boat Show, little will change about the Kingfisher Boating 

Marquee this year. A huge floored marquee filled with waterway related products, 

Sabena Marine 

Marsh Road, Wroxham, Norwich NR12 8UH 

Explore the east coast on board the yacht, 

‘Kingfisher of Maldon’. 

We provide the full range of RYA sailing 

courses, from Competent Crew to Yachtmaster. 

Call: 020 3006 3717 

Visit www.firstclasssailing.com/eastcoastsailing 

S 

ANTI-FOULING 

Pull out & launch, powerwash, anti-foul 

20ft craft £302 



35ft craft £396 Tel: 01603 782552 

40ft craft £428 Fax: 01603 784215 

www.sabenamarine.co.uk 

Prices include VAT Sabena.marine@btopenworld.com 

• Food and Drink 

High quality food and drink will be available at Crick Boat Show 2012, catering to all 

tastes and budgets. The brand new Water Vole Craft & Food Marquee will be host to a 

gathering of fine craftspeople and gourmet food specialists. With tasty samples and live 

demonstrations of craftsmanship and innovative and unique products, the Water Vole 

marquee is the ideal place to browse. 

The Crick Boat Show, which is expected to attract 25,000 visitors, is organised by 

Waterways World in partnership with British Waterways and Crick Marina. For more 

information visit www.crickboatshow.com or call the ticket hotline 01283 742972. 

Sail Away With 

YBDSA 

You might think that owning your own 

boat is an unachievable dream but with 

interest rates so low at the moment, your 

hard-earned cash isn’t doing much for you 

stuck in a bank account. Reflect would like 

to encourage you to spend and enjoy your 

cash while you can by buying a boat. 

Founded 100 years ago, the YBDSA 

provides a comprehensive list of approved 

surveyors, designers and brokers to assist in 

all aspects of the purchase or sale of a boat. 

Established by a group of yacht brokers to 

cater specifically for wealthy boat owners 

and royalty, the YBDSA has changed over 

the years and now caters for anyone 

looking to buy a boat, whether it be a yacht, 

sail boat or narrowboat. 

YBDSA Chief Executive, Jane Gentry, told 

us: “Boats are different to houses and cars; 

any finance that is secured to the boat stays 

with the boat and not with the owner. Get the 

seller to sign a Sale and Purchase agreement 

stating that there is no outstanding finance 

or debt on the boat. This ensures that if there 

is finance on the vessel, the buyer can take the 

seller to courts for fraud. A broker will check 

this and other title documentation to ensure 

you have the correct paperwork. 

“The best advice I can pass on to anyone 

thinking of buying a boat is to do your 

homework. Think about who will use the 

vessel, how often it will get used and how 

much you want to spend, as it’s not just 

the initial outlay that you have to consider: 

engine services, maintenance and storage/ 

mooring all cost money.” 

The YBDSA are celebrating their centenary 

in 2012 and held a drinks reception at the 

Glass Works on the 28th of March, where 

their new Presidents Board was unveiled 

by Tiff Needell (whose father was a former 

President during the 1970s). 

For more information on how the YBDSA can help you, 

please visit www.ybdsa.co.uk or call 01730 266430 

Anglo Welsh Waterway Holidays 

Awarded Certificate of Recognition 

Described as the fastest way to slow down, narrowboat holidays provide the ultimate 

opportunity to kick back and relax. Established over 40 years ago, Anglo Welsh Waterway 

Holidays provide narrowboat holidays for all the family. Operating from 11 locations 

throughout England and Wales, Anglo Welsh covers large sections of Britain’s 2,000+ miles 

of inland waterways, in numerous stunning locals that beg to be explored. 

It’s not hard to see why Reflect have chosen Anglo Welsh for a Certificate of Recognition 

for Ultimate Boating Break. Editor, Elaine Ellis, said: “Enjoying a narrowboat holiday forces you 

to slow down, to relax and take life at a slower pace, something I feel everyone could benefit from 

these days. Providing not only high quality boats 

but also a great area of Britain to explore, 

Anglo Welsh Waterway Holidays are worthy 

winners of this Certificate of Recognition.” 

The route you choose is entirely up to you. 

The Booking Team can help you decide 

and advise everyone from the Complete 

Novice to the Seasoned Veteran! Everyone 

has a full Handover Session before they set 

off, to explain all the ‘dos and don’ts’ and 

to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable 

holiday. 

Then You’re Off! 

Take a leisurely cruise to a local pub and 

moor up and enjoy the tranquillity, or, take 

on a more physical route and get the kids to do the 

locks – its great exercise and a real family activity. 

Robert Lawrence took over Anglo Welsh in 2000 

and has spent the 12 years investing a lot of time, 

effort and money into refurbishing the fleet of 

150 hire boats and 10 day boats. Today, the fleet 

offers a diverse mix to accommodate every type of 

party, from cosy two-berths for a couple; four or 

six-berth for a small families and groups of friends, 

and eight, nine, ten and 12-berth boats for larger parties. Every boat in the fleet has been 

independently assessed by an accredited Inspector and have been graded on the Visit 

England five-star grading scheme. 

Robert said: “Lots of people are surprised to discover just how modern 21st Century 

narrowboats actually are; they come fully equipped with hot and cold running water, flushing 

toilets, central heating, showers or even small baths, sprung mattresses and fridges are available 

on every boat. We include a full tank of fuel in all our hires, which would keep you going for 

two weeks at a steady pace. We’re one of the few large boat hire companies not to charge a 

supplement for fuel and customers actually save anything up to £150 by choosing to holiday 

with us.” 

Anglo Welsh also have a number of boats to 

hire for the day at all of their bases, to give 

you and your family a taste of life cruising 

Britain’s inland waterways. 

For more information, visit www.anglowelsh.co.uk 

or call 0117 3041122

16 Touring Scotland 

17 

Crazy Camping in Bonnie Scotland 

Uig Sands 

Campsite 

Islecroft Caravan 

& Camping Site 

Despite its compact size, Scotland is home to an array of attractions that are 

sure to occupy every member of the family, no matter what their age or taste. 

So, whether you’re searching for a family holiday destination with attractions 

to entertain all, a romantic city for a weekend away with a lover, or just want to 

see some stunning scenery, Scotland is the place! 

If you’re watching the pennies or looking for a greener way to enjoy a holiday, a 

caravan or camping holiday offers a fun-filled break, with no passport required. 

As a self-catering, no frills alternative to a package holiday, providing flexibility 

and freedom, camping breaks offer the chance of an enjoyable holiday that 

won’t break the bank. In recent years, the economic climate has made us all 

more aware of every penny we spend, so to ensure you and your loved ones 

can still enjoy quality time together on an annual holiday, opt for a caravan or 

camping break this year. 

Overlooked by many thanks to stereotypical ideas, such as soggy sleeping bags 

and the infamous shiver-provoking showers, it’s a well-kept secret by keen 

campers that tents can now enjoy all the creature comforts of home thanks to 

electrical hook ups - whatever you require (be it hair straighteners or proper 

lighting) to ensure your holiday has all the creature comforts of home, can be 

catered for. 

With spectacular scenery, an abundance of fresh air and an unrivalled ‘outdoor 

playground’ Scotland is the ideal place to enjoy a caravan/camping holiday this 

summer. The country boasts an extensive range of campsites and caravan parks 

in just about every corner of this magical country, many of which are open 

throughout the year. Not only are the facilities for camping/caravanning great 

but there’s so much to do and see in Scotland, you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

Scotland has some of the finest beaches in the world. They’re so varied with 

white sands, secret coves, rock pools, and unpolluted clear waters common 

sights; you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of seals basking on 

the rocks. It has been estimated that Scotland has 16,491 km/10,306 miles of 

coastline; in fact many Scottish beaches are often so deserted that you can find 

yourself the only people there! Many of the beaches along the west coast are 

often photographed and portrayed as the Caribbean in holiday brochures due 

to the white sands and crystal clear water. 

Scotland’s breathtaking landscape offers holidaymakers the chance to refresh 

and enliven their senses, whether you explore on foot, on a bicycle or in a 

canoe! Scotland’s great outdoors make a unique, natural playground, combined 

with a wealth of adventure activities, has blessed this small country with the 

prestigious status as Europe’s Adventure Capital. Adventure seekers will find 

a host of exciting activities in Scotland’s dramatic mountains, rolling hills, 

picturesque forestry, rugged coastlines and fast-flowing rivers. 

Not only is Scotland an adrenaline junkie’s paradise, it’s also a rambling 

haven that provides the opportunity to enjoy a gentle country stroll, a breezy 

coastal walk, trekking long distance routes or scrambling amidst the majestic 

mountains – there’s something for every rambler. 

Scotland is also THE place for wildlife; The Scottish Wildlife and Nature Tourism 

Operators Association believes Scotland is the number one destination for 

watching wildlife in Europe, thanks to the diversity of the landscape. Recent 

years have seen the re-introduction of many native Scottish species, most 

notably the Sea Eagle and Red Kites, which now grace the Scottish skies once 

again. 

For more information on camping/caravanning holidays in Scotland, 

please visit www.visitscotland.com/guide/where-to-stay/camping-caravanning 

The Port Mòr Centre 


Basic camping area right on the 

dunes of Traigh Uuige. Enter at the 

parking area for the beach. Run by 

the local community. Only facilities 

are public conveniences and a 

water pipe. Strictly no towing or 

seasonal caravans. Community 

shop and seasonal community cafè 

are nearby. Please contact site for 

further info and details. 

Tel: 01851 672248 

6 Ardoil, Timsgearraidh, Isle Of 

Lewis, Hebrides HS2 9EU 

Loch Tummel 

Campsite 

Billy and Shiela 

Henderson 

welcome you to 

our friendly, familyrun 

campsite. We 

are open April to 

September. Islecroft 

is a small, sheltered 

site set beside 

Colliston Park, and 

is just 5 minutes’ 

walk from shops, 

pubs, restaurants, 

hotels and takeaways in Dalbeattie town 

centre. 

Billy Henderson 

• 25 pitches, some with hard-standing 

• Electricity at most pitches • Toilets with 

showers • Disabled access • Laundry facilities 

• Bicycle lock-up • Adjacent putting, tennis, 

boating, children’s playground 

Islecroft Caravan and Camping, Mill Street, 

Dalbeattie, Dumfries and Galloway DG5 4HE 

Web: www.islecroft.co.uk 

Tel: 01556 612236/612645 

Email: wahsong@gmail.com 

Braidhaugh Park Ltd 


The Port Mòr Centre is situated just 

outside of Port Charlotte on Islay and was 

opened in May 2007. It is a community 

project and aims to provide many and 

varied facilities to both visitors to Islay 

and residents alike. The building is carbon 

neutral and uses a 6KW wind turbine 

to generate electricity, with a ground 

source heating system to provide heating 

and solar panels to provide hot water. 

Insulation of the building is to a very high 

standard. 

The Centre features a café and a spacious 

seating area with spectacular views 

across the Lochindaal. Also available is 

Internet access, meeting rooms with video 

conferencing facilities and a campsite 

with toilets, showers and laundry facilities. 

In addition, a modern and well-specified 

children’s play park is situated right next 

to the Centre. 

Port Mòr, Port Charlotte, Islay PA48 7UE 

Phone: 01496 850441 

Café: 01496 850442 

Email: warden@islandofislay.co.uk 

Web: http://islandofislay.co.uk 

Westfield Farm 

Certificated Site 

We are five miles out of Elgin. We can 

have five caravans and five tents at any 

one time. We are open between March 

and September. Nearby are golf courses, 

castles, whisky trails, distilleries, beaches, 

and many other attractions. 

Directions: 

Westfield Farm, Elgin, Moray IV30 8XL 

We are set in a pretty rural location 

away from busy traffic. Three miles to the 

nearest shop. Five miles from Elgin for 

the supermarket. 

Three miles west of Elgin, turn off A96 

towards Burghead. After 1.25 miles turn 

right towards Westfield, follow signs past 

Westfield House to site at Westfield 

Farm. Level, 0.5 acre, advance booking 

advisable. 

Contact: 

Veronica or John Maclean 

01343 547308 or 07831 472367 

Situated deep in Highland 

Perthshire, this site is 

conveniently located right 

next door to the wonderful 

Queen’s View. The site nestles 

on the edge of Loch Tummel 

offering a great camping 

experience. There is a small 

facilities block onsite. 

The Queen’s View Visitors 

Centre offers a small tourist 

shop and cafè during the 

summer season. 

Open from March to October. 

Pitlochry, Perthshire 

PH16 5NS 

Phone: 01796 472825 

Braidhaugh Holiday Park is situated 

in a beautiful area of central Scotland. 

Braidhaugh Holiday Park is a brilliant place 

for holidaymakers to come and stay for an 

affordable but highly enjoyable holiday. With 

plenty to do and countryside to explore, this 

holiday destination is ideal for either couples 

or families. 

Braidhaugh is perfectly located as a base for 

many local attractions. Braidhaugh Holiday 

Park lies near Crieff’s town outskirts on the 

River Earn, famous for its trout and salmon 

fishing, and is only a few miles away from 

Muthill and Comrie. Whether your taste runs to 

fishing, golf, horseriding, walking, shopping or 

history, there is so much to see and enjoy. 

We hope that you choose to come and stay at 

Braidhaugh and look forward to welcoming 

you to this beautiful part of Scotland! 

South Bridgend, Crieff, Perthshire PH7 4DH 

Tel: 01764 652951 Fax: 01764 652692 

Web: www.braidhaugh.co.uk

18 Holidays 

Reflect Recommends 19 

A Groovy Great British Holiday 


Eastbourne 

Apartments 

• Town centre flats 

• Waterside house 

and apartments 

• Balconies 

• Lovely views of sea 

and harbour 

• Close to beach 

• Car parking 

Low Season from 

£265 - £725 weekly 

High season from 

£375 - £1,000 weekly 

Contact R.T.S. Harris 

Tel: 01273 308779 

E: enquiries@bestofbrighton.co.uk 

W: www.eastbourneapartments.com 

Lletymaelog 

Named Reflect’s Welsh Hideaway 

Situated amid beautiful countryside, 

Lletymaelog is a wonderful Welsh 

farmhouse offering holidaymakers a 

warm welcome and peace and tranquillity 

in abundance. With five bedrooms and 

panoramic views of the Black Mountains, it’s 

not hard to see why Lletymaelog has been 

chosen as Reflect’s Welsh Hideaway 2012. 

Located on a working farm, Lletymaelog 

has retained much of its character, 

with exposed stone work, beams and 

an inglenook fireplace. As well as five 

bedrooms and a futon bed, the house 

boasts a bathroom and downstairs WC, 

as well as a lounge with plenty of comfy 

seating plus a TV, a dining room catering for 

up to ten people, a well-equipped kitchen 

which also boasts more dining seating and 

an Aga and a utility room with washing 

machine. 

As well as enjoying the slower pace of being 

in the country, away from the rat race of 

Earlier this year VisitBritain, our national tourism agency, predicted that the UK 

should attract 30.7 million visitors in 2012, who will spend £17.6 billion during their 

stay, thanks to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in June and the 2012 Olympic and 

Paralympic Games in July and August 

If a holiday in good ol’ Blighty is good enough for our foreign counterparts, it’s good 

enough for us. Britain may be a relatively small county, covering 152,033 square 

miles, but it offers an abundance of places to discover and explore, from chic city 

breaks to sunny seaside holidays, Great Britain has something for everyone. 

If it’s history and heritage you’re after, our tiny isle has it in abundance, mostly 

thanks to our colourful history of invasions, empires and battles. There are 

astounding castles and palaces in every region of the land, as well as colossal 

military defences and strongholds doted along the coast, whilst soaring spires, 

Gothic carvings and gigantic medieval masterpieces are a familiar sight in towns 

across the country. 

Not only is our great nation steeped in ancient history, we also have some amazing, 

cosmopolitan cities, offering an array of shops and boutiques, restaurants, cafes and 

bistros, and theatres sure to keep even the well-travelled entertained. Great Britain’s 

top city destinations include London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast, Bath, Manchester, 

Liverpool, York and Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare. 

If it’s a traditional seaside break you crave, Britain is the place. Surrounded by ocean, 

the British Isles have an abundance of beach resorts, coastal paths, rugged cliff-tops 

and sea life all waiting to be discovered. The east coast resorts of Skegness, Great 

Yarmouth and even Felixstowe in Essex have an array of attractions to entertain the 

younger members of your family, whilst Hunstanton and Aldeburgh are perfect for a 

quieter, less hectic day at the seaside. 

For more info on holidaying in Britain, visit www.visitbritain.co.uk 

the city, visitors to Lletymaelog can see and 

feed the farm’s animals, stroll amongst the 

Welsh countryside surrounding the house, 

or exercise in the house’s gym, which boasts 

a pool table, snooker table and darts board, 

as well as an exercise bench and some 

weight lifting equipment. In fact, Dr Rhys 

Thomas is looking to develop Lletymaelog 

into a triathlon training centre, as well as a 

healthy farm holiday destination. 

On hearing the news of our Certificate 

of Recognition for Welsh Hideaway 

2012, owner, Dr Caroline Williams, said: 

“I’m delighted to receive this Certificate of 

Recognition; we’re situated in a great location 

close to some great beaches and numerous 

castles, as well as the National Botanic 

Gardens. I also run a Bed and Breakfast 10 

miles away.” 

Dogs are welcome at Lletymaelog if housed 

in the utility room. Please note that as a 

working farm, dogs must be kept on a lead 

so they don’t disturb the neighbouring 

farms’ livestock. 

For more information, 

visit www.lletymaelog.com 

or call Dr Caroline Williams on 

01269 870879. 

The Watersports Academy 

The FJB Watersports Academy is Sandbanks’ 

premier watersports training facility, 

providing first-class tuition for people of all 

ages, novices to experts alike. 

Fully qualified instructors provide training 

in windsurfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, 

wakeboarding, kayaking, sailing and 

powerboat training, corporate days and 

group packages, boat and yacht charters and 

kids’ club - plus much more! 

The Watersports Academy is located in one of 

the most picturesque locations in the country, 

based on the water’s edge on Sandbanks 

Peninsula with views over the harbour to 

Brownsea Island and the Purbecks. 

The Watersports Academy offers something 

for everyone and guarantees to ensure that 

you get the most from this stunning and 

unique waterside environment - from a single 

afternoon of fun on (or in!) the water to 

tailor-made packages to suit your particular 

interests, ability, or personal requirements. 

The Watersports Academy, Banks Road 

Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset BH13 7PS 

Call: 01202 708 283 

Email: info@thewatersportsacademy.com 

Celebrating The 

Best In Business 

At Reflect, we work hard week in and week out 

to find the highest quality goods and services for 

all of our readers. Recognising that customers are 

eager to find companies that can offer the whole 

package, high quality goods, competitive prices 

and outstanding customer service, as well as items 

that aren’t readily available on the High Street, we 

dedicate our time to highlighting those who boast 

something special. 

In 2010, UK retail sales amounted to a whopping 

£293billion, with more than one third of consumer 

spending going through our nation’s shops. Whilst 

this may seem like a huge amount of money, the 

reality is that many companies across the country are 

finding it tough as shoppers turn to the Internet for 

the best bargains. 

Over the last few years we’ve gone from being a 

nation of shoppers to a nation of savers, as we avoid 

the High Street in favour of hanging on to our hard 

earned cash. This has dealt a devastating blow to 

our independent, local businesses, who have closed 

at an alarming rate, particularly in smaller market 

towns. Many companies across the country have 

suffered the effects of the recession, but it’s our local 

businesses that have been hit hardest. Without the 

financial backup of a parent company, with a chain of 

businesses, they are finding it tough to stay afloat. 

Many companies across the country have suffered 

the effects of the recession, but it’s our local 

businesses that have been hit hardest. Without the 

financial backup of a parent company, with a chain of 

businesses, they are finding it tough to keep afloat. 

However, there are ways that you can help your 

local, independent businesses survive. By choosing 

to shop or employ the services of local companies, 

you can help them to flourish. You may also find that 

choosing local is to your benefit, as you are treated 

to a more personal service. The companies within 

this feature offer their customers the whole package: 

high quality products and competitive prices, as well 

as an excellent and personal service. 

Although these companies are offering different 

things, the factors that lead to success remain 

the same, good customer service, reliability and 

professionalism are three of the most important 

factors for keeping customers happy – and happy 

customers means more recommendations and more 

success! 

Reflect Editor, Elaine Ellis, says: “Each issue, we strive 

to bring excellent companies to the attention of our 

readers, no matter what feature we’re working on. We 

believe it is important to highlight the companies in 

and around Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, as well 

as further afield, that not only offer excellent value for 

money, but also excellent customer service and high 

quality goods/services. We pride ourselves on hunting 

out the best companies that cater to our readership and 

work exceptionally hard to give the customer exactly 

what they want.” 

FARNCARE 

INSPECTIONS 

An Independant Company 

Boiler Specialist 

Locomotive boilers and all types of PSSR 

inspections and Light Lifting equipment 

inspected to current regulations. 

For further information or a quote contact Ian Farrance 

Email: ian@farncare.co.uk Mob: 07973 697818 

C/O Pitmore Farm Cottage, 

Pitmore Lane, Pennington 

Lymington SO41 8LL 

Web: www.farncare.co.uk

20 The Perfect Day 

21 

If you’ve recently taken the plunge and got engaged, Reflect 

would like to offer our ‘Congratulations’ to the happy couple. 

However, once the initial glow has died down and your face 

no longer aches from smiling 24 hours a day, it’s time to get 

planning. 

Unless you have unlimited funds, chances are your wedding day will have to be 

done on some sort of budget. If your budget doesn’t stretch to the UK average 

of £18,500 (http://www.weddingsday.co.uk/average-wedding-cost), then you’ll 

not only need to open a bank account to save for your big day, you’ll also need 

to plan carefully to avoid starting married life in debt. 

The venue you choose for your wedding day all depends on the type of 

ceremony you’d like. A marriage ceremony is basically the same whether you opt 

for a religious or civil affair: it’s a public declaration of your love for one another 

and it will give your new, legal status as husband and wife. Many brides dream 

of a traditional white wedding, in church with all the trimmings, whilst others 

dream of declaring their love in an ancient castle, a charming country estate or 

a contemporary city hotel. A survey, carried out by Condé Nast Brides Magazine 

in 2009, discovered the average couple will spend £1,679 on a ceremony venue 

and a further £3,500 on a reception venue; if you’d like to cut this figure, the 

advice is not to tie the knot on a traditional summer Saturday date and opt for a 

weekday wedding or a winter date, where prices can lower by up to 50%. 

12 Months to Go 

With a year left, it’s time to think about your dress, plain or elaborate, off the 

peg or designer, the earlier you make a decision the better. Book the wedding 

reception and organise all the trimmings including musicians, DJs, caterers, 

photographers, transport and florist. 


Book the honeymoon and choose bridesmaids’ dresses and outfits for the 

ushers. 


Book the toastmaster and decide on the best man – speeches take time! Order 

wedding stationery, choose bride & groom’s wedding rings and decide on your 

shoes & accessories. 


Visit the hairdresser and beautician to have a run-through of what you’d like 

on the big day. Issue guests with a wedding list and don’t forget to buy the 

wedding licence. 

1 Month to Go 

Reconfirm everything (in writing if possible)! Arrange wedding rehearsal and 

organise hen and stag nights 

It’s The Final 

Countdown 

Image courtesy of Bill Haddon 

www.photographybybillhaddon.co.uk 

Organising your big day may seem more like a logistical nightmare than an 

exciting experience, but don’t panic, forward planning is the key to success… 


Finalise the important details such as date, budget and whether you want to get 

married in a church or register office. Start searching for your wedding reception 

venue. 

1 Week to Go 

Wear in your wedding shoes and double check everyone knows their role in the 

big day! 

1 Day to Go 

Relax, it’s too late to worry now! 

A Beautiful Symbol Of Your Love 

Thanks To AVANTI 

Many people will agree that the most 

significant purchase of their lives, both 

financially and emotionally, is theirs and 

their partner’s wedding ring. Whether it‘s 

18ct white gold, yellow gold or platinum, 

no other single piece of jewellery will ever 

be as important or carry as much magic and 

sentiment. 

A family-run business, Avanti Jewellers in Dig 

Street, Ashbourne, stock a fabulous selection of 

exquisite classic and more modern engagement 

and wedding rings, as well as specialising in 

beautiful, sophisticated bespoke jewellery, 

handmade and designed by proprietor, Alan 

Matkin and resident goldsmith, Ron Fairweather, 

in collaboration with customers. 

Alan and Ron are fully aware of how much it 

means to a couple to find and choose the perfect 

rings to seal their union; rings that are the symbol 

of their hopes and dreams for the future. Alan, 

Ron and the team at Avanti are passionate about 

exquisite jewellery so if customers don’t find the 

wedding rings of their choice, Alan and Ron will 

help couples design it. The customer is involved 

at every stage of the process and from 

an initial pencil sketch, a 3D image can 

be produced, of the final piece, using 

the latest computer technology. 

Weddings rings from Avanti start from 

around £250, but from there, the sky is 

really the limit. Alan, Ron and the team 

understand that buying a wedding and 

engagement ring is a very personal 

thing, which is why they can cater for every taste 

and budget; they strive to offer something to 

please everyone. Avanti is not a brand-led store; 

the team would rather their customers choose 

something that’s a little different, more them, or 

have a bespoke piece made to their individual 

specifications. 

Alan, Ron and the team at Avanti are happy 

to advise customers on their choice of stones, 

as well as choosing the appropriate metal. 

White gold is still very popular, although there 

is a movement back to yellow gold. Platinum, 

although more expensive, continues to be 

sought after, but Avanti offer an affordable 

alternative; Palladium 950 is a platinum group 

metal which is naturally white, will never change 

colour, is hard wearing, hypoallergenic and is 

affordably priced. 

As well as engagement and wedding rings, 

Avanti also cater for the bride and gifts for the 

bridal party, such as diamond earrings and 

pendants, pearls and seawater and freshwater 

cultured pearls. 

Open Monday to Saturday from 

9:30am until 5pm. 

For more information, 

please call 01335 348961 or 

visit www.avantijewellers.co.uk

22 Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography 

23 

Capturing Lasting Memories: 

Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography 

Weddings 

On your wedding day, Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography 

usually use either twin camera coverage for the whole day to 

capture all of the action or twin cameras for the ceremony and 

single camera for highlights of the photocall, reception and rest of 

day. However, the choice is yours. Separate camera coverage 

can be provided of the bride’s preparations, family and guest 

interviews, special sequence of the bride and groom in a chosen 

location or reportage of the day, to name a few suggestions. 

Howard told Reflect: “We’ve been filming weddings for a number 

of years; I ask that interested parties give me a call or drop me 

an email to discuss what they want recorded so we can create a 

package to suit them. I’ve filmed an array of events over the years 

and feel this gives me and my experienced team the expertise to 

deal with ultra-discreet coverage to fully fledged direction and 

production on the day. I pride myself on capturing the event in its 

entirety, in a way that truly reflects the day.” 

For wedding day photography, Cotswold Wedding Video & 

Photography use professional digital equipment and provide a 

selection of formal and informal shots of the happy couple with 

relatives and friends, so that after the fun and excitement of the 

day, the magic moments can be re-lived over and over again. 

You should also remember that the DVDs and photo albums 

produced will be cherished not only by the bride and groom, but 

also by those who cannot be there to share the day. 

Once filmed, the footage is processed using the state-of-the-art 

editing equipment. The finished product is supplied in presentation 

cases with individually designed covers. 

Other Events 

Over the years, Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography have 

filmed a wide range of events, as well as undertaking a great 

variety of filming projects from services attended by Her Majesty 

Catering for all your filming needs, Cotswold 

Wedding Video & Photography provide either or 

both video and photographic services across the 

Cotswolds. With many years’ experience, gained 

by filming at most locations in the Cotswolds 

and across Gloucestershire, company director, 

Howard Williams, together with his experienced 

crew, provides a lasting memory of your 

corporate event, teambuilding day, family gettogether 

or wedding day. 

the Queen, theatre and dance productions, instructional and 

marketing projects, corporate events and travelogues. 

Howard is also happy to film any special event, including parties, 

anniversaries, retirements, baptisms and confirmations. He also 

happily accepts commissions, filming an array of events such as 

dramas and musicals, concerts and festivals, sports and equestrian 

events, documentaries, living archives, training and education and 

corporate events. Recent commissions include: 

• Filming at the International Air Tattoo, which is held annually in 

July at Fairford, Gloucestershire. 

• MOD training videos of equipment in use at airfields worldwide. 

• A general interest film about RNAS Yeovilton and the Fleet Air 

Museum. 

• British Connemara Pony Society seminars in presentation of 

ponies and riders at events, dressage displays and stallion parade. 

• Training film about riding technique and animal behaviour. 

• Training for personal confidence, interview techniques, 

preparation for appearing on local and national radio and 

television stations. 

• Group travel abroad for schools, special interest parties and 

national holiday providers. 

• Video relay to large screen(s) in concert halls, churches and 

Gloucester cathedral. 

Howard told us about filming the Maundy Thursday service at 

Gloucester Cathedral in April 2003: “The service was attended 

by the Duke of Edinburgh and the Queen and the filming set 

up was very intricate and had to remain out of sight. In order to 

film we had to get permission from the Cathedral administration 

and Buckingham Palace. We had to arrange our positions and 

movement with the security team and no cameras were allowed 

to be visible to members of the Royal party. We had a camera 

outside the Cathedral, which captured the arrival of the Royal 

helicopter, journey to the Cathedral and departure. There were a 

further seven cameras inside the Cathedral, including in the organ 

gallery, pulpit, on the steps and in the press gallery at the West End 

of the Nave. It was a wonderful experience to be part of this event 

and I’m really looking forward to the coverage of the Diamond 

Jubilee events to be screened on TV in the coming months.” 

Recognition 

It’s not hard to see why Reflect have selected Cotswold Wedding 

Video & Photography for a Certificate of Recognition for Exclusive 

Weddings, as well as one of our most prestigious Certificates, our 

annual Silver Certificate of Recognition. 

Reflect Editor, Elaine Ellis, explained why she selected Cotswold 

Wedding Video & Photography for these Certificates of 

Recognition: “Many people put photography ahead of 

videography at a wedding, but by enlisting the services and 

expertise of Howard and Mike at Cotswold Wedding Video 

& Photography, you can have the best of both worlds for the 

most special day of your life. As Howard had previously won our 

Certificate of Recognition for Exclusive Weddings, he’s clearly a 

worthy winner of one of our most prestigious Certificates and I 

hope these two awards encourage Reflect readers to call him for 

their photography and videography needs, whether for business 

or pleasure.” 

Testimonials 

“We are so pleased with our record of our Wedding Day. Elderly 

relatives made a special effort to be on top form for the day: 

we have a special memory to remember them after they are 

no longer with us. Your careful and unobtrusive coverage of the 

day has given us a complete record of a very happy and special 

event. Thank you for everything! We shall be recommending your 

service to all our friends.” 

Sarah and Christopher 

Tel: 01453 757980 | Web: www.cotswoldweddingvideo.co.uk | Email: mwcvideo@yahoo.co.uk

24 

A Happy Hobby From 

Lynx Model Works 

Based in the county of Lincolnshire, 

Lynx Model Works is a thriving 

specialist Precision Engineering 

business, specialising in Steam Engines 

of all kinds. Formed in 2002 by 

John Clarke, the recently expanded 

Lynx Model Works workforce of 14 

engineers produce beautiful models 

and full-sized steamboat engines and 

their component parts, including fully 

tested coal-fired boilers. 

In the last ten years, they have built some 45 live 

steam locomotives for discerning clients, in all 

gauges from gauge 1 to 10 ¼” gauge. All are coal 

fired, passenger-hauling replicas of famous fullsized 

locomotives from the past. Real Live Steam 

Coal Fired locomotives are made in any gauge/ 

scale from 2 ½” to 10 ¼” Gauge to individual 

order. Traction Engines to 4” scale, Model and fullsize 

Stationery and Steam Launch Engines are also 

produced to order. All products built and offered 

by Lynx Model Works are customer driven, as 

they specialise in producing individual items to 

fulfil client’s wishes. 

John is extremely experienced; he has over 

38 years’ experience in producing live steam 

locomotives, traction engines, stationary and 

steam launch engines. It’s this experience 

combined with his knowledge and his excellent 

workforce that has led Reflect to award 

Lynx Model Works with a Certificate of 

Recognition for Engineering Services as well 

as a Diamond Certificate of Recognition 

in early 2011. 

Lynx Model Works also assists other model 

engineer hobbyists in completing their own 

projects, by making parts that they may not have 

the time or facilities to produce for themselves. 

Lynx Model Works are also happy to repair, 

renovate and complete unfinished models and 

assist in the reworking and build of any ‘kit’ item: 

complete or incomplete. 

Lynx Model Works is an Association of 

Companies, including Lynx Model Works Ltd, 

Lynx Model Boilers Ltd, Lynx Model Paint and 

Machining Services Ltd, Live Steam Kits Ltd and 

Lynx Model Restorations Ltd. 

T: 01507 479666 

W: www.lynxmodelworks.co.uk 

E: info@lynxmodelworks.co.uk

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