Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography - Reflect Magazine

free
Issue 061
With a wealth of experience,
Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography
provide either or both video and photographic services for weddings
across the Cotswolds. For more information, visit
www.cotswoldweddingvideo.co.uk or turn to page 3…
Cook the perfect
treat this
Pancake
Day
Discover the best
of Britain in our
Holidays
Guide
See this issue online at www.reflect-magazine.co.uk

02 Annual Review
03
And The
Winner
Is…
How fast time flies when you’re having fun; Reflect is now two
and a half years old. In that time we’ve discovered some great
companies, companies who are surviving despite the tough
economic times. We’re here to bring you the companies that are
bucking the trend, those companies that are surviving, and even
prospering, despite this economic instability.
Reflect
Annual
Bronze
Although we search high and low, across the length and breadth of the UK to bring
you the best companies, the three companies within this feature have been chosen
for our most prestigious Certificates of Recognition, which we only give out once a
year.
Firstly, we have our Gold Certificate winner, Cotswold Wedding & Video, who boast
Image courtesy
of Spike
Photography
Established in
1977, Nottingham
Counselling
Service (NCS)
provides one-toone
counselling
services, therapy
and therapeutic
support to men
and women,
aged 16 and
over, living within
Nottinghamshire
and further afield into the East Midlands. NCS
has provided support, advice and therapy to
thousands of people over the last 30 years.
As one of the most respected and longestablished
counselling providers, NCS has
a wealth of trained counsellors, so they can
help with almost any problem, but they
mainly deal with:
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low Self-esteem
• Relationship Problems
• Bereavement
• Trauma
• Other Abuse, in particular women who have
suffered sexual abuse during childhood
Helping You Cope
Reflect Annual Bronze Certificate of Recognition
NCS have recently released the findings of a
‘client experience’ study, which discovered
the numerous ways in which counselling
from NCS has helped clients, including better
self-understanding, improved mood and
outlook on life and a reduction in negative
feelings and behaviour. The client feedback
was overwhelmingly positive.
Managing Director, Leslie McDonald, said:
“Over the years, NCS has provided support
to thousands of vulnerable people across
Nottingham. The purpose of this study was
to assess the effectiveness of the service we
currently provide to enable us to provide a
better service in the future. Our clients say we’ve
helped them feel empowered to take positive
action to improve their lives, learned strategies
and tools to cope better in daily life and dealt
with difficult past events. Clients said that
our counselling offered them a much-needed
opportunity to talk confidentially in a safe
space and explore difficult emotions. Clients
also commented positively on our counsellors
and administration staff.”
Due to a loss of funding from the NHS
and Local Authorities, NCS are appealing
for donations, which will enable them to
continue to provide support to the most
vulnerable people.
For more information, or to make a donation, contact 0115 9501743 or
visit www.nottinghamcounsellingcentre.org.uk
Reflect
Annual
Silver
Reflect Annual Silver Certificate of Recognition
Reflect
Annual
Gold
many years experience filming weddings, celebrations and events. If you’re looking
for a wonderful way to capture the memories of your wedding day forever, Reflect
recommend Cotswold Wedding & Video.
Secondly there’s Liberty Apartments in Jersey who’ve won our Silver Certificate.
With a range of four-star serviced apartments across Jersey, Liberty are the only
company to book with when travelling to the Channel Islands for business or
pleasure.
Finally, Nottingham Counselling Service have won our Bronze Certificate. Having
helped residents of Nottingham and further afield for 35 years, NCS provides a
companionate and experienced ear if you need to talk.
The companies within this feature offer good, old-fashioned, courteous service,
which is why they are the winners of our most prestigious Certificates!
www.libertyapartments.co.uk
As specialists at capturing the events of your wedding
day, Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography provide
either or both video and photographic services for
weddings across the Cotswolds. Their aim is to cover
all the important aspects of your dream day from the
ceremony to the reception and wedding breakfast, as well
as any evening celebration/entertainment.
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 wedding day.
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 Gold Certificate of Recognition.
Reflect Editor, Elaine Ellis, says: “Many people put
photography ahead of videography at a wedding, but by
Capturing Those Magical Moments
Cotswold
Wedding
Video & Photography
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 wedding photography and
videography.”
On hearing the news of his Certificate of Recognition
for Exclusive Weddings, Howard said: “Thank you
Reflect. This is a great start to 2012; we’ve won a
handful of awards before, including from the Institute
of Videography. It takes a lot of time and effort to
capture the memories of your special day, or celebration,
perfectly, so you can re-live them for years to come.”
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.
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.
In the past, Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography
have filmed a wide range of weddings, from low
budget to lavish dos, in every type of venue from
Register Offices, private marquees, cathedrals and
luxury hotels. In addition, they have undertaken
a great variety of filming projects from services
attended by Her Majesty the Queen, theatre and
dance productions, instructional and marketing
projects, corporate events and travelogues.
For more information, please call 01453 757980
or visit www.cotswoldweddingvideo.co.uk
Praise for Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography
“Thank you for such comprehensive coverage of our
wedding day. We are amazed that you recorded all
aspects of the day with unobtrusive camerawork.
Relatives living abroad, too frail to make the journey, are
thrilled with the video. You captured the atmosphere of
the occasion, which has been sampled by all who have
seen it. Thank you so much for all your help and advice
in planning and providing us with a treasured memory
of our wedding day.” Aimee and Fouad
“My daughter travelled around Britain looking for a
picturesque venue for her wedding.
She settled on glorious Gloucestershire. I was going to
ask friends to cover the event on their video cameras and
spend money on the photographs. I was so impressed
with your work and helpful advice, when we met at the
venue to make arrangements that I felt we needed a
video. Many guests were coming from different countries
and your presentation convinced me of the necessity for
a video. We are extremely impressed with the end result,
the complex arrangements of the day make it effortless
and without anxiety and nerves; a complete record
without a camera in sight – brilliant, we are so impressed
with your expertise!”
Jessica and Sean

free
Issue 061
With a wealth of experience,
Cotswold Wedding Video & Photography
provide either or both video and photographic services for weddings
across the Cotswolds. For more information, visit
www.cotswoldweddingvideo.co.uk or turn to page 3…
Get gardening with
Seasonal
Gardening
Cook the perfect
Pancake this
Pancake
Day
See this issue online at www.reflect-magazine.co.uk
Discover the best
of Britain in our
Holidays
Guide
www.reflect-magazine.co.uk
©VisitBritain/ Tony Pleavin
Editor:
Accounts:
Feature Writers:
Graphic Designer:
Sales Executives:
Distribution:
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
Lewis Stacey
Sue Lees
0116 262 8096
Self Select Distribution
02 Annual
Review
04 Contents
06 St Valentine’s Day
07 Pancake Day
08 Moscow City Ballet
09 Local Life
10 Seasonal Recipe
Contents
12 Lincolnshire’s Finest
14 Seasonal Gardening
16 Holidays Guide
18 Wedding Review
20 Railway Heritage
21 Spear Financial
22 Animal Rescue Advisory Service
Published by:
Reflect Magazine Ltd
Printed by:
Spectrum Printers Services
0116 246 1717
To subscribe:
to Reflect Magazine call
0116 262 8096
Web Design:
Paul Tipton at Q Creative Design
paul@qcreativedesign.co.uk
0116 251 7298
Write to us:
REFLECT MAGAZINE
3rd Floor Office,
29-35 St Nicholas Place,
Leicester LE1 4LD
Name & Registered Office:
REFLECT MAGAZINE LIMITED
Allen House, Newarke Street,
Leicester LE1 5SG
Company Number:
6979106
©VisitBritain/ - Britain on View

06 St Valentine’s Day
Pancake Day 07
How Do I Love Thee?
Let Me Count The Ways…
Next Tuesday, February 14th, is St Valentine’s Day. If you’re not going out this year for something to
eat, why not still enjoy some quality time, and a delicious meal with your loved one thanks to this
delicious recipe from our resident chef, Neil Walker…
Lobster And Asparagus Linguine
“This dish is intended for a romantic evening supper
for two to share, snuggled up by the fire with a romcom
on the box. Ok, so it involves some pre-planning
and preparation beforehand but having done that, you
can knock it up in literally 15 minutes, allowing you to
spend more time with your loved one!
Don’t let the idea of ‘lobster’ put you off. You can buy
a perfectly decent lobster (cooked/frozen) for £5 in some
of the major supermarkets and although you need to
de-frost it the day before and then take 10 - 15 minutes
to de-shell it, it is well worth it, plus I’m sure your
partner will be impressed with the effort you’ve gone
to. After all, food is the way to a man’s, or woman’s,
heart!”
Ingredients:
1 cooked lobster (thawed if frozen)
250g/9oz linguine
10 asparagus stalks, sliced in half
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 fresh red chilli, de-seeded and
finely diced
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
To Assemble The Dish:
1. Add the linguine to a large pan of boiling water,
cook for approx 10 minutes then strain briefly
before returning to the pan.
2. Add all the other ingredients to the linguine
and give it a good stir round. Turn the heat off
and put a lid on and let it sit for a couple of
minutes then serve...preferably with a glass of
chilled champagne!
Tuesday 21st February is Shrove Tuesday, or better
known as Pancake Day. Shrove Tuesday is followed by
Ash Wednesday – the start of Lent. But, why do we
eat Pancakes on Shrove Tuesday? We take a look at the
history and tradition surrounding this occasion…
The word ‘shrove’ stems from the old English word
‘shrive’, which means ‘confess all sins’. In the Middle
Ages, people used to confess their sins on Shrove
Tuesday to ensure that they were forgiven before the
season of Lent began.
According to Christian beliefs, Lent commemorates
Jesus’ 40 days alone in the wilderness, without food
being tempted by the Devil. Christians mark this period
of 40 days and 40 nights by giving up their favourite
food, such as chocolate. People used to fast during Lent
and the Orthodox Church still keeps Lent very strict,
encouraging people to give up both meat and dairy
products for the entire duration.
Palm Sunday, when Jesus entered Jerusalem and the
people lay down palms at his feet, marks the start
of the last week of Lent, which actually ends the day
before Easter Sunday (Holy Saturday). However, in
the Roman Catholic Church, Lent officially ends at
sundown on Maundy Thursday, with the beginning of
the mass of the Lord’s Supper.
Flipping Good Fun This
Pancake Day
So, it seems that Shrove Tuesday was invented to use
up the ingredients that were given up for Lent - milk,
butter, and particularly eggs - which may not be eaten
again until Easter. It’s also the last chance to indulge
yourself, before 40 days and nights of abstinence.
Information taken from www.woodlands-junior.
kent.sch.uk/customs/easter
Once again, Reflect’s resident Chef, Neil Walker of
Appetite at Abbey Leisure & Sports Club in Leicester,
has come up with a mouth-watering recipe that even
the most clueless cooks can make…
Blueberry Pancakes With Maple Syrup
Ok, so this isn’t the healthiest of things to eat but it is
Pancake Day and it’s cold outside and our bones ache
for comfort food in this climate and these definitely
do the trick! Plus, they include the super food that is
the mighty blueberry, so they’re not all bad! These are
those thick, spongy American-style pancakes that I can
guarantee will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
100g plain flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon icing sugar
1 large egg
15g melted butter
125ml milk
1 tub blueberries
Maple syrup
Method:
1. Lightly whisk the milk, egg and melted butter, then in
a large bowl add the liquid to the flour, baking powder,
sugar and salt. Whisk until smooth, then pour into a jug
and leave for about 20 minutes.
2. Pour a little oil into a large, non stick frying pan on
a medium heat then in batches, pour dollops of batter
into the pan (you should be able to fit three or four
pancakes into the pan at once).
3. Sprinkle the blueberries onto the uncooked side of
the pancakes and when they begin to blister and bubble
flip them over. They should only take about three
minutes in all.
4. Place on a warm plate and serve with lashings of
warm maple syrup - mmmmmm!
Neil can be found at Appetite within Abbey Sports
& Leisure Club, 70 Slater Street (off Frog Island),
Leicester, LE3 5AS. If you’ve got any feedback on this
recipe, nutrition questions, or ideas you’d like to share,
why not email Neil on appetite@abbeysports.co.uk
Prior Preparation:
1. De-shell your lobster,
put the meat in a bowl,
cover and refrigerate.
2. Chop the parsley,
zest and grate the
lemon, de-seed
and finely chop the
chilli, and slice the
asparagus in half from
the tip to the end of the
stalk.

08 Moscow City Ballet
Local Life 09
PMB Presentations present
Moscow City Ballet
At The Assembly Rooms, Derby
Sunday 18th - Tuesday 20th March 2012
©VisitBritain/ Daniel Bosworth
Keeping It Local...
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.
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. The Commission for
Rural Communities, a government watchdog, has found that Britain’s 1,600 market
towns have been the worst hit by the financial crisis. You only need to take a stroll
around your town or city to see the aftermath of the worst economic crisis for more
than two decades.
With the recession gripping the nation, it’s vital that you choose the services
offered by local companies. The more money you spend within our own economy,
the better equipped businesses across Reflect’s two counties will be to ride out the
crunch and come out the other side stronger and better for it. Spending money
within our own economy also means more jobs will remain secure, allowing many
more families to avoid the upset and trauma of redundancy, repossession and even
bankruptcy.
Moscow City Ballet performs two of the world’s most
famous traditional ballets at The Assembly Rooms, Derby:
Romeo & Juliet on Sunday 18th and Swan Lake on Monday
19th and Tuesday 20th March 2012.
Classical dance is experiencing a dramatic resurgence thanks to film and television
inspiring a new generation of fans. New audiences are now discovering the intensity,
drama and beauty of classical ballet when it’s performed live on stage by an artistic
company.
The world’s most famous love story Romeo and Juliet is set to Prokofiev’s dramatic
score, a masterpiece of 20th Century music. All the hustle and bustle of Renaissance
Verona is brought to life in this powerful production. The ballet follows the fate of
the star-crossed teenage lovers from their first meeting to their untimely and tragic
death. Audiences are in for a real treat as the lead role is played by Alevtina Lapshina,
who captures the innocence and joy of Juliet perfectly.
Swan Lake, featured recently in the phenomenally successful movie The Black
Swan, is performed by technically refined dancers and includes lavish sets, beautiful
costumes and innovative choreography. The epic story tells of Prince Siegfried and
his love for Odette, who tricked by the evil sorcerer, Von Rothbart, and his daughter,
Odile, would rather die together then live apart. The theatrical dance experience of
this classic Russian jewel is completed by Tchaikovsky’s thrilling scores.
Moscow City Ballet makes a welcome return to the UK following a sensational 2010
- 2011 season which included sell out performances and rave reviews. The company
is brimming with some of Russia’s best young dancers, outstanding principals,
stunning soloists and a sublime corps de ballet, all underpinned by the dynamic
vitality of a live orchestra.
The company owes its distinctive style to the method, dedication and artistry of
Victor Smirnov-Golovanov, distinguished choreographer and one time Bolshoi
soloist, and to his wife Ludmila Nerubashenko, the chief ballet mistress.
Victor Smirnov-Golovanov said: “We are pleased to be touring the UK again following a
phenomenal season last year. The UK audiences especially seem to appreciate our gifted
dancers and enjoy the spectacle of our traditional ballets.
We hope they enjoy this repertoire and embrace this new dance revolution.”
Moscow City Ballet will perform Romeo & Juliet on Sunday 18th at 7:30pm and
Swan Lake on Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th March at 7:30pm. Tickets cost £22 to
£30, concessions £20 to £28, under 16s, groups and schools rates available.
Book now online at www.derbylive.co.uk or 01332 255800
Heage
Windmill
Heage Windmill is Grade ll* Listed
and was built in 1797. Restored to
working order in 2002, it unusually
has six sails. Visitors are taken on
guided tours, their guide being in
costume, and can normally buy the
mill’s own flour.
Adults £3.50, concessions £3, children
(5 - 16) £1.50, under 5s free. Open
every weekend, Easter to end of
October, including Bank Holidays,
11am - 4pm.
Hardwood Logs Ltd
Quality products
Excellent services
Great values
• Seasoned Hardwood or Softwood logs
• Logs cut to size to suit
• Delivered in a one-hour time slot, 6 days a week
• See website for more services and products
Simon and Jackie Ludlam
Holly Grange Farm, Lea Moor, Lea, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5RA
01629 534475
sales@hardwoodlogsltd.co.uk www.hardwoodlogsltd.co.uk
The Garden Room
Company
High Quality Bespoke
Garden Rooms
Immensely versatile garden rooms,
stylish, durable & contemporary.
Our garden rooms are built to the
highest standard with exquisite detail
& unique characteristics.
This performance is presented by PMB Presentations, a
presenter of ‘high end’ Russian touring ballet and opera, and
London seasons of visiting companies.
www.pmbpresentations.com
Heage Windmill, Chesterfield Road,
Heage, Belper, Derbyshire
DE56 2BH
Tel: 01773 853579
Web: www.heagewindmill.co.uk
Opening hours:
Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm
Sat 9am – 4:30pm
Sun 10am – 3pm
All major debit cards accepted.
The Garden Room Company
183 Sleetmoor Lane, Swanick,
Derbyshire DE55 1RH
01773 605005
www.thegardenroomco.com

10 Seasonal Recipe
11
A Seasonal Delight
For February
by Neil Walker,
our resident chef
February is a hard month if you are committed in your
kitchen to cooking from the ever-changing seasons.
With the cold weather winter brings, comfort food is ‘the norm’
– lots of heavy casseroles and stews (my friend Maxine’s slow
cooker that she received as a Christmas present has been on
overdrive throughout January). Nothing is growing in the garden
– it’s too cold to even think about ‘a spot of gardening’; however
there is one treasure – forced rhubarb!
It’s thin, red stems are a world away from the thick green tinned
rubbish. All major supermarkets will be selling this, grown in the UK
(probably Lancashire) although at £3 for a dozen stems, it’s not
cheap, however, it is worth it!
This has to be the best cheesecake combination ever. It looks
and tastes amazing! You could play around with the base by
using ginger nut biscuits instead of digestives, or add some white
chocolate to the cheesecake filling. It’s perfect for making up
lazily on a Saturday afternoon so it’s ready – in the fridge – for
your family coming round for Sunday lunch.
Rhubarb Ripple Baked Cheesecake – makes 12 portions
Ingredients:
12 digestive biscuits, crushed
70g butter, melted
1pkt fresh – new season – rhubarb
900g cream cheese
3tbsp plain flour
250g caster sugar, plus 1tbsp
3 large eggs, plus 1 egg yolk
200ml sour cream
1tsp vanilla extract
1 10” loose bottomed cake tin, lightly greased
Method:
1. Preheat oven to Gas
mark 4, 180°C/350°F
2. Begin by poaching the rhubarb in 5tbsp of water in
a saucepan with the 1tbsp of caster sugar and vanilla extract
for approx. 5 minutes, until soft and tender. Then blitz in a food
processor and place in a bowl in the fridge to chill.
3. Add the melted butter to the biscuits, stir to combine and
then press into the base of the cake tin. Place in the over for 10
minutes, then chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, flour, caster sugar,
eggs and sour cream and whisk for 1 minute until light and slightly
fluffy.
5. Pour the cream cheese mix onto the biscuit base, then pour in
the chilled rhubarb puree in a swirl. Marble the rhubarb with the
handle of a teaspoon until you have a ripple effect. Place in the
oven for approx. 1 hour until the middle is just slightly wobbly.
6. Place the cheesecake on a wire cooling rack for 30 minutes
then place in the fridge overnight to set.
Neil can be found at Appetite within Abbey Sports & Leisure Club,
70 Slater Street (off Frog Island), Leicester, LE3 5AS. If you’ve got
any feedback on this recipe, nutrition questions, or ideas you’d
like to share, why not email Neil on appetite@abbeysports.co.uk
Delicious!

Odling Bros Ltd 01522 810228
supports Lincolnshire’s Finest
12 Lincolnshire’s Finest
13
Lovely Lincolnshire
Lyndhurst Coffee Shop
& Garden Centre
With fabulous coastal resorts, historical charm, thriving market towns,
unspoilt countryside and cultural heritage, Lincolnshire is a varied and
vibrant county.
Lincoln is a city rich in history. The cobbled streets of Lincoln’s Cathedral
Quarter will transport you back in time as you wander through the
superb historical landmarks and amazing architecture that sets this
place apart from other cities. The stunning, gothic cathedral dates back
to 1072, and offers some fascinating tales from the past.
Lincoln Castle, built by William the Conqueror in the late 11th
Century, is also a must for anyone thinking of visiting the city, as it
houses one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta. This
important document, which was drawn up in 1215, set the standard for
democracy and laws within England, and is exhibited proudly alongside
the story of its creation.
Here at Lyndhurst, we have everything to
satisfy your gardening needs. We have an
extensive range of all varieties of plants,
trees and shrubs constantly in stock, along
with a large giftware range for that special
occasion and a good homeware selection.
Our friendly staff will help you to find what
you need.
We have a coffee shop which serves hot
meals, or light snacks and a wide range
of beverages. You can take a break from
shopping while visiting us, and sit either
inside or outside at our ice cream parlour,
serving a large variety of ice creams and
sundaes. Come and relax, enjoy just a coffee
and a gluten-free cake or treat yourself to
one of our delicious home-made meals.
Lunch served from 11:30am to 3pm.
Daily Roast or Homemade Steak Pies all
served with freshly cooked vegetables and
potatoes. Parties catered for!
Skegness Road, Burgh-Le-Marsh, PE24 5AA –
Skegness, Lincolnshire
T: 01754 810295
E: info@lyndhurstgardencentre.co.uk
W:www. lyndhurstgardencentre.co.uk
Another Award For Grafters Brewery
Brewed onsite at The Half Moon pub in
Willingham-by-Stow (near Gainsborough in
Lincolnshire), Grafters Brewery produce eleven
varieties of award-winning real ale, which
can be enjoyed in numerous locations across
Lincolnshire, as well as at home.
With such an extensive and delicious range, it’s
not hard to see why Reflect have selected Grafter’s
Brewery for a Certificate of Recognition for Services To
The Community. On hearing the news, experienced
publican Phil Troope, who started his micro-brewery
in an attempt to attract more customers to his
pub, said: “I’m honoured and thrilled to receive this
Certificate. It’s wonderful to receive recognition for
the things you do and knowing that people love our
ale is the best reward we could ask for!
“The idea for my own ale came about from my desire
to attract more people to our dwindling pub. Fewer
and fewer people were coming in, so I wanted to do
Wanting an alternative to the busy city? Then head to the coast and
wider countryside for more fun, frolics and fresh air. Golfing, fishing
and horse riding provide a more liberating and leisurely way to explore
Lincolnshire. Ramblers are well catered for with numerous pub, canal,
nature, village, aviation, history and even literary trails to be explored.
As a rural county, Lincolnshire is the birth-place of a number of dishes
and delicacies, including: tangy Lincolnshire Poacher cheese, coarseground
Lincolnshire sausages, succulent, marbled Lincoln red beef,
stuffed chine salt-cured pork filled with green herbs, usually parsley,
haslet – a type of pork loaf, also flavoured with sage – and Plum
bread. For the freshest, finest local produce look out for the Tastes
of Lincolnshire logo at shops, places to eat and accommodation. For
further details on the Tastes of Lincolnshire project, visit
www.visitlincolnshire.com/food-and-drink
Visit www.visitlincolnshire.com for more info on holidays to Lincolnshire
something to attract them back, without going down
the food route. The Half Moon is a traditional pub that’s
always served a handful of real ales by local producers;
however, it wasn’t until I had a tour of a friend’s brewery
that I seriously considered producing my own ales. I
did an ‘Introduction to Brewing’ course, bought some
equipment, altered my garage and two weeks later, my
ale was on the pumps.”
Established in November 2007, Grafters Brewery
have not only won our accolade; they’ve enjoyed
phenomenal success since their creation. In the
first year, they won a Gold and Silver award at the
Peterborough Beer Festival, the biggest outdoor
beer festival in the UK, with their ale ‘Traditional’.
Phil said: “Our first brew was named ‘Traditional’ and it
does exactly what it says on the tin; it won Gold in the
‘Best Beer From A New Brewery’ category in 2008 at the
Peterborough Beer Festival. Our second ale, ‘Moonlight’,
is much lighter than ‘Traditional’ and more refreshing
– it was created specifically with summer beer gardens
in mind. That’s actually the ale that’s won us the most
©VisitBritain/ Tony Pleavin
awards. At the 2009 Peterborough Beer Festival, we
won Gold in the ‘Best Bitters Under 4%’ category as well
as being named the Championship ale of the whole
festival, beating 500 others. The following year, we
won Gold again in the ‘Best Bitters Under 4%’ category.
It’s nice to know our fellow brewers, as well as our
customers, enjoy what we brew.”
Grafters Brewery produce eleven different varieties
of their real ale, ranging from 3.6% ABV to 5.2% ABV;
there are so many different colours and flavours
you’re bound to find one you like. You can sample a
pint of Grafters real ale at The Half Moon pub, as well
as a number of other pubs in Lincolnshire. However, it
can also be purchased in bottles and boxes (5, 10 and
20 litre boxes) to enjoy at home.
To order some of Grafters’ ales
for yourself, please call Phil on
01427 788340 or visit
www.graftersbrewery.com
Only The Best From
Odling Bros
In the current economic climate, we’re watching
every penny. If you’re looking to save money on
your food bills, Reflect would like to recommend
buying your meat from a local, experienced butcher
instead of pre-packed from the supermarket.
An experienced butcher will not only save you
money, he’ll also be able to advise you on the best
cuts of meat, as well as the best accompaniments
to really bring out the true flavour. This issue,
Reflect would like to draw your attention to the
high quality meat and the friendly service on offer
at Odling Bros, winners of a Reflect Certificate of
Recognition for Services To The Local Community…
Situated in the village of Navenby near Lincoln,
Odling Bros is an independent butchers, offering
high quality cuts of meat, alongside a deli counter
and grocers stocking all the essentials. Established
in the 1920s, Odling Bros has remained in the
Odling family since its creation, which helps to
maintain that family feel and the friendly and
approachable nature of its staff, something that
Odling Bros prides itself on.
The current Odling Bros premises on the High
Street, originally a barn, was purchased by Charles
Preswood Odling, the son of a Branston farmer
and prominent Wesleyan family. In 1909 Charles
was elected Sheriff of Lincoln, whilst running
his jewellery shop on Lincoln’s High Street. He
converted the Navenby barn into a clock makers,
watch repairers and photography business for his
son William, also known as ‘Clocky’. William went
on to produce several postcards of the local area,
as well as commissioning ornamental porcelain
vases, which are still collected to this day. In 1920,
William’s son, Charles Williams, converted the
business into a butchers, trading as CW Odling.
Management of the business then passed to
Charles’ sons Charles, John and Keith.
The shop underwent a radical refurbishment in
2006 in order to accommodate the Odling Bros
expanding range of products, which includes
locally sourced meat and poultry, a wide range of
goods baked on the premises (including pork pies,
meat pies and sausage rolls), an extensive cheese
and delicatessen counter and fresh vegetables and
grocery essentials.
Alan Odling, told Reflect: “My grandfather
established the butchers and my brother Roy and I
are going to carry on for many more years, hopefully
passing it onto our children to enable a fourth or even
fifth generation of Odlings to carry on the Odling
Bros name and reputation here in Navenby for future
generations.”
With such an excellent reputation for high quality
products and a friendly smile, Reflect have chosen
Odling Bros for a Certificate of Recognition for
Services To The Local Community. On hearing the
news, Alan said: “Thank you Reflect I’m chuffed!
It’s nice to get recognition and everyone here
really appreciates the fact that our hard work and
commitment to providing quality products has been
recognised. Over the years, we’ve continually built
upon our reputation for exceptional quality, striving
to give our customers exactly what they want at a
reasonable price, with a smile and cheery greeting.”
Celebrating 92 years of success, as well as our
Certificate of Recognition, Odling Bros is today run
by Keith’s sons as a team effort after his retirement
last year. Odling Bros do run a delivery service from
their mobile van, covering the areas of Waddington
and Brant Road, as well as RAF Cranwell. Alan and
Roy are hoping to expand the deliveries further
this year with a mail order service as part of a new
website, which should be launched at the end of
February.
If you can’t wait until then for regular updates on
Odling Bros, you can befriend them on Facebook
(Odling Bros Ltd) or even follow them on Twitter (@
Odlingsbutchers), where Alan often ‘tweets’ special
offers exclusively for Odling’s followers.
Odling Bros is open from Monday to Saturday, 6am until 5:30pm,
so why not pop in and see for yourself why they’ve survived for so
long, and gained such an enviable reputation.
For more information, please call 01522 810228 or visit
www.odlingbros.co.uk
Alternatively email shop@odlingbros.co.uk
Odling Bros. Ltd, 54 High Street, Navenby, Lincolnshire LN5 0ET

14 Seasonal Gardening
15
Get Gardening…Then Cooking
by Laura Hyde
In recent years, more and more people (including the Obamas and
The Queen) have been getting green-fingered and have given ‘growing
your own’ a go. A number of factors have aided in this revolution: firstly,
the recession then following economic hardship has made many of us
question every penny we spend and growing your own veggies is so much
cheaper than buying them from a supermarket: secondly, the increased
awareness of where our food comes from and how far it travels from
field to plate has made many carbon-conscious wannabe gardeners give
it a go: finally, those that want to eat organic but can’t afford it have taken
to growing their own as they know exactly what has, and hasn’t, been
sprayed on their veg.
If you’ve never given it a go, either because you’re not very green-fingered, or
because you don’t think you have the room, I’d like to encourage you to make 2012
the year you do give it a go; there’s a whole host of fruit and veggies that can be
grown in the smallest of spaces and a wide variety that grow without much fuss,
just a sunny spot and a daily water is all that’s needed.
First thing is first, where are you going to grow said veggies; well, if you have an
established garden, you could convert one of your flower beds into a veggie patch,
or you could dig up a bit of lawn. For those of you who aren’t green-fingered at all
so have no idea what’s lurking in your garden, why not spend the afternoon clearing
some space and giving the soil a boost by adding some compost before you plant
anything.
A great way to grow veggies is in a raised bed. These ease the strain on your back
as you bend over less when weeding and planting and they also warm up quicker,
meaning you’ll be enjoying crops before those ground-growing gardeners. Raised
beds are also ideal for those gardens with a heavy clay soil as they create good
drainage; so obviously if you have sandy soil in your garden, a raised bed may not
be the best solution as you’ll be constantly watering your veggies.
If you don’t have much room in your garden, or even no garden to speak of at all,
you can still grow your own vegetables. Certain veggies will grow happily in pots
on windowsills, in window boxes or even on balconies. Tumbling Tom tomatoes will
flourish in hanging baskets, whilst potatoes grow well in compost bags. Beans and
peas, which grow vertically, will be quite happy climbing up trellis, wooden frames
or even bamboo sticks in the shape of a wigwam.
If you’re new to gardening, it’s advisable to start with veggies that are relatively easy
to grow to ensure you have some reward for your hard work and time. Our top,
easy-to-grow veggies include: courgettes, beetroot, garlic, lettuce, runner beans,
potatoes and tomatoes. However, the best vegetables to grow are ones that you
actually enjoy eating and will use in a variety of dishes – there’s no point being
overrun by courgettes if you will never cook with them. Once you get the hang
of when to plant what and how often to weed and water, your repertoire will
increase and you can enjoy a whole host of unusual and exotic vegetables and fruit.
Once your veggies are fighting fit, make sure you water them well in dry weather,
and keep the area free of weeds to ensure your crop is getting all the water
and nutrients it needs – a little bit of TLC will ensure you get a bumper crop of
delicious vegetables for the whole family to enjoy.
It’s a great idea to get your children involved as it may encourage them to eat a
wider variety of fruit and vegetables. Buy them some children’s tools and get them
to check the growth and progress of each veggie, and you’ll be amazed how many
previously refused veggies are now eaten with delight, and pride.
Don’t be disheartened and give up if your first year doesn’t go exactly to plan;
everyone has a few mishaps and disasters, so just keep trying and keep planting and
you’ll soon be enjoying home-grown food throughout the year!
So, what are you waiting for? Now that the warmer weather is on its way, get out
into your garden this weekend and start preparing to plant an array of vegetables
that’ll taste all the more delicious come harvest time because they’re grown by
your own fair hand.
A Beginners’ Guide To Garden Tools
You don’t need to spend hundreds of pounds on the latest high-tech equipment,
but there are a few essentials every gardener needs…
• Spade – essential for digging, good spades can break and
move soil efficiently.
• Fork – potentially more useful than spades when clearing
new ground and breaking firm soil.
• Rake – you’ll need to level your soil once it’s been dug
and that’s when you’ll need this little piece of kit.
• Hoe – best used for chopping heads off annual weeds, a
hoe can make light work of weeding; make sure you hoe on
hot and dry days so weeds don’t re-root.
• Trowel – an invaluable digging tool, a trowel is ideal for
planting and weeding; use the pointed end to make furrows
when seed sowing.
• Shears – ideal for keeping plants and bushes under
control, as well as keeping your lawn edges looking neat and
tidy.
• String – it may seem primitive, but tying a length of string
to two sticks enables you to plant/sow in straight lines.
What to Plant This Month:
As we’re now into late winter, the ground is still hard with frost so planting should
be reserved to the greenhouse, indoor window sills or mild areas – ensure to
protect any outdoor seedlings with cloches.
• Bulb Onions
• Lettuce
• Beetroot
• Spinach
• Carrots
• Early Peas
• Broad Beans
For more information about growing and eating seasonally,
visit eatseasonably.co.uk

16 Holidays Guide
17
Experience Good Ol’ Blighty In 2012
King Arthur’s Arms Inn
FRAOCH COTTAGE
at THE HEATHERS
OMMAROO HOTEL
Ford Cottage
Feature by Lewis Stacey & Sue Lees
©VisitBritain/ - Britain on View
King Arthur’s Arms Inn offers good food,
local beer and friendly cheer. Four-star bed
and breakfast accommodation. Open all
year. Autumn and winter walking and cycling
breaks. Ideally located in the heart of Tintagel,
North Cornwall. We are a family-run, familyfriendly
Inn / public house. All our rooms have
hair dryers, flat screen TVs and tea and coffee
making facilities.
The National Trust Old Post Office is situated
opposite. We stock real ale, most of the
leading brand lagers and a wide choice of
Cornish ales. We are generally open 364
days a year from 9am til midnight. We are
open for good food from 9am to 9pm daily. In
our 2 bars we offer a varied menu, including
homemade daily specials.
Contact us by telephone: 01840 770831
or by email: info@kingarthursarms.co.uk
Sleeps: 3. One small to medium sized dog
permitted free of charge. Price range: £295
- £445 pw. Located 15 miles north of Fort
William off the A82 Road, Fraoch Cottage
enjoys a stunning and natural hillside setting
above Loch Lochy amongst the breathtaking
scenery of The Great Glen.
Centrally heated and double-glazed in a
central location ideal for touring much of the
Highlands and The Isles of Skye and Mull.
Accommodation
• Ground floor accommodation consists of a
vestibule, a quality appointed shower room
and a beautifully furnished and well-equipped
open-plan kitchen/dining/living room area.
• Wi-Fi Internet access provided.
• Forming one end of The Heathers
Guesthouse building, guests also benefit
from half an acre of grounds which offer
superb views overlooking Loch Lochy and
also boast a beautiful decking and patio area,
just perfect to relax on during warm summer
evenings.
Invergloy Halt, Spean Bridge,
Inverness-shire PH34 4DY
Ian and Sheila MacKinnon
Tel: 01397 712077
Come and enjoy a relaxing break at the
Ommaroo Hotel on the beautiful island
of Jersey. Situated immediately across the
road from the Havre Des Pas beach and sea
swimming pool and only ten minutes’ walk
to the bustling centre of St Helier, with all
its shops, restaurants and museums.
Our sea view rooms overlook the Demi des
Pas with its wonderful rocky formations at
low tide and the sea pool, ideal for a cool
dip on those hot sunny days. A full English
breakfast is included in the rate, but do join
us in the evening for dinner and choose
from a 3 course table d’hote menu which
changes nightly, plus coffee.
Price ranges from £41 to £75 per person
per night. Quote reference: Reflect 061 and
we will offer you 10% discount on your
accommodation and dinner at half price
for bookings for 4 or more nights. Bookings
valid from the 10th of February to the 29th
of December 2012, subject to availability.
Offer expires on the 30th May 2012.
Havre Des Pas, St Helier, Jersey,
Channel Islands JE2 4UL
T: 01534 723493 F: 01534 759912
E: reservations@ommaroo.com
W: www.ommaroo.com
Ford Cottage sleeps 4 + 2 . Luxury
accommodation overlooking the picturesque
Ford and adjacent to the waterfall at Rutter
Falls.
The Cottage has a large sitting room with
a feature log burner, Laura Ashley Granada
day bed, leather sofa, Sky TV/DVD.
Handcrafted pine kitchen with oven, hob,
dishwasher, fridge, freezer and microwave.
Double bedroom with painted furniture and
wrought iron bedstead. Spacious shower
room. Heating by radiators and/or log burner.
A separate first floor annex with its own
entrance is an optional extra. Comprising
double bedroom overlooking the Ford with
sitting area, TV and bathroom ensuite. Linen
and towels provided.
For more information contact:
Sue Smith on 01768 353243
Visit: www.rutterfalls.com
Email: d.p.smith206@btinternet.com
Rutter Falls, Appleby,
Cumbria CA16 6ES
As Britain turns its attention to hosting a number of major events next year, national tourism
agency VisitBritain has released its 2012 visitor forecast, revealing that the UK should attract
30.7 million visitors in 2012, spending £17.6 billion in the process.
Commenting on the forecast, Sandie Dawe, VisitBritain’s Chief Executive said: “We’re currently
on track to see a record number of holiday visits to the UK this year, which suggests that our appeal
as a destination remains strong; 2012 gives us an unprecedented opportunity to showcase Britain
in a way that we have never had before, allowing us to revitalise our appeal in mature markets
and help us get Britain on the destination wish list of first time visitors from growth markets such
as Brazil, China, India and Russia.
“As part of our ‘GREAT Britain – You’re Invited’ marketing programme which we are undertaking
with commercial partners, we have a fantastic range of deals in place to entice visitors to travel
here throughout 2012 and will look to tap into the strong holiday market to ensure we can build
on the gains we have made over the last couple of years. This will be supported by our largest ever
image campaign to help inspire potential visitors to come and enjoy all the great experiences that
we have on offer here in the UK.
“VisitBritain is working hard to ensure that the Games and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
celebrations will generate positive PR for Britain, taking advantage of the global interest to
increase tourism numbers in the years ahead and creating a lasting tourism legacy for the future.”
Last month, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, a market leader in consumer electronics and
Worldwide Olympic Partner in the wireless communications equipment category, announced
the launch of ‘The Best of Britain’ mobile application in partnership with VisitBritain.
The Best of Britain App Key Features includes:
• Near Me – Never again will you miss an experience that’s right in front of you or not far away
• Eating & Drinking – Hungry, thirsty, vegetarian, pescatarian, search the best in British cuisine
and use the map to direct you straight there
• Search – Whether it’s the finest British tea or the best place to hire a surfboard, everything is
available at the slide of a screen
• Destination Guide - An in-depth guide to the hundreds of must-see villages, towns and cities
around the UK
• Top 10 – Rely on dozens of Top 10 lists to discover the best shops, restaurants, bars, and
explore the very best of your favourite activities
TYNRHELYG
Holiday Cottages
Choice of two 5
star luxury cottages
each sleeping up
to 6 people with
interconnecting
doors for larger
families.
Situated in acres of farmland on an elevated
site overlooking both the Leri Valley and the
Cambrian coast. Secluded and peaceful, eight
miles from Aberystwyth and one mile from
Talybont village on the A487 coast road. We offer
you a truly exceptional country escape where
you can watch the landscape unfold before you.
The cottages are ideally located for walking in
the Cambrian Mountains, coast walks, nature
reserves and seaside activities. Our cottages
are situated on a working farm which is in the
Cambrian Mountain Inititiative, a wide ranging
project set up to help sustain traditional upland
farms and rural communities.
To book, please email
evancarol@btinternet.com or
Tel: 01970 832735
Web: www.tynrhelyg1.speedy.uk.net
Evan & Carol Evans
Tynrhelyg, Talybont, Ceredigion SY24 5DJ
Poachers Hideaway
Self-catering. Offering exclusive luxury
in an unrivalled location. Six beautifully
restored cottages set in 150 acres.
Ideal for a quiet getaway or you can
book the whole complex including
dining and function rooms for that
special occasion. Winner of English
Nature and Lincolnshire Environment
awards. Gold award for self-catering.
Units: 6 cottages, bedrooms: 1, 2 or 3
per unit. Prices: £260 - £1,000
Flintwood Farm, Belchford,
Horncastle LN9 5QN
T: 01507 533555
E: info@poachershideaway.com
W: www.poachershideaway.com
Distance: Lincoln 26 miles,
Horncastle 4 miles
The Lake District is a very popular area of the UK in
which to enjoy a holiday or short break, but in this
issue Reflect would like to draw your attention to
the Western Lake District, towards Cockermouth.
Situated in the quite hamlet of Deanscales,
approximately three miles outside Cockermouth, The
Cottage offers a comfy and cosy base from which to
explore this quieter, less populated area of The Lakes.
Owned by Sharon Martin, The Cottage has been
sympathetically converted from an old farm
building into a luxurious home-from-home holiday
accommodation with everything you could need.
Sharon told Reflect: “We converted an old barn in
2011 after the bad winter we had but wanted to do
something different; we didn’t want to create the usual
holiday property, we wanted to create a mini home. We’ve
carefully considered every little detail and really feel we
Get Away From It All With Cumbrian Getaways
have a place people want to come home to after a long
day exploring.”
Boasting two bedrooms (a double and a twin with
adult-friendly bunks), a shower room, a small but
well-equipped galley kitchen (which even has a garlic
press and weighing scales~) and an open-plan living
and dining area with original feature oak beams,
natural slate floor, wooden dining table and TV with
built-in Freeview.
Sharon added: “One of the feature’s of The Cottage is the
bespoke hand-crafted work carried out by local craftsmen
which includes, solid oak doors, skirting boards, headboard,
and bunk beds. Together with wrought iron bannister and
matching curtain rails. We aimed to create somewhere
we’d like to stay on holiday so all the linen is luxury
Egyptian cotton and there’s even everyday and best
crockery in the kitchen - basically everything you
could wish for in a high grade self-catering cottage.”
Not only does The Cottage have its own patio
area, it’s surrounded by three acres of woodland
and gardens; in fact, there are enchanting paths
carved through the woodlands to enable guests
to explore.
As well as The Cottage, Sharon also owns a Marina
Apartment in Whitehaven, which overlooks the
town’s ancient harbour. Situated on the third floor,
the Marina Apartment is modern (built in 2008) with
two bedrooms (a master en-suite and a second that
can be a twin, single or super king), galley kitchen,
family bathroom and open-plan living and dining area,
with three balconies that make the most of the views,
especially the sunsets. The town centre is a 10-minute
walk from the apartment.
During off peak periods both properties are available
for Short Breaks, the Cottage is available from
£315 and the Marina Apartment from £350. Both
properties are also non-smoking and sorry but no
pets allowed.
If a holiday in good ol’ Blighty is good enough for our foreign counterparts, it’s good enough
for us, so we’re here to encourage you to forgo your annual holiday abroad for a fun-filled
break on our fair isle this summer.
For ideas on holidaying in Great Britain, visit www.visitbritain.com
Further information for both The Cottage and Marina Apartment can be found online at
www.cumbriangetaways.co.uk
Tel: 01900 829439 | Email: cumbriangetaways@aol.com

18 Wedding Review
19
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%.
If Music Be The Food Of Love,
Play On…
Nicky’s Cakes:
Scoop Certificate of Recognition
Going To The Chapel Of Love
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 you new legal status as husband
and wife. Many brides dream of a traditional white
wedding, in church with all the trimmings. If you choose
to be married in a church, you are not only declaring your
love, you’re also saying that you want God to be part of
your relationship. The Bible is full of references to love,
but including God in your marriage does not necessarily
mean you’ll avoid the usual ups and downs. However,
it does mean that you can turn to Him for help and
guidance during any downs.
However, if you’d prefer a more modest ceremony,
without the religious content, there are still plenty of
options open to you. If you decided to opt for a civil
ceremony, your next decision is whether to tie the
knot in a register office or approved venue. Whatever
you decided, your first port of call is to contact the
Superintendent Registrar in the area in which you intend
to marry. Although there are nationally set fees for a
superintendent registrar, individual registrars are able to
decide what is, and what isn’t, permitted during a civil
ceremony. This is why it’s essential that you discuss vows,
music and anything else you intend to include within
your ceremony.
The first thing you need to do before you decide on a
venue is to decide on a date that you’d like to get married.
If there’s a date that’s significant to you as a couple then
you might have to be flexible with the year in which you
marry to secure your dream venue as the best venues
can get booked up years in advance. However, if you’re
flexible with your date, you could tie the knot in a ‘quieter’
month and still have a fairytale wedding at the venue of
your dreams.
Begin by combing the area, visiting every venue that
takes your fancy – after all, the venue is an important
part of your day. It will form the backdrop for your
photographs (the lasting memory of your special day),
set the tone and atmosphere for the whole day and
hopefully create wonderful lasting memories with your
guests. It’s for these reasons alone that you should be
extremely thorough when visiting venues.
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/averagewedding-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 National Wedding Show brings together over 250
exhibitors and the UK’s largest collection of wedding
dresses under one roof. Taking place at London
Kensington Olympia from February 24th to 26th and
Birmingham NEC from March 16th to 18th, The National
Wedding Show 2012 promises to be bigger and better
than ever. Visit www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk for
more information, or to buy tickets.
www.weddinggiftboxesrus.co.uk
Unique handmade favour boxes
Exquisite favours - Bath Bombs
Soaps - Costume Jewellery,
chocolates & much more
Men’s favours with a difference!
Handmade bridal mascots
0116 2767544 / 07586 248915
Founded in 2002, the Pavilion String
Quartet promises to add an air of elegance
to your event. Happy to perform at
weddings, parties and even product
launches across the country, the Pavilion
String Quartet draws on almost 50 years
experience from its four members, violinplayers
Mark Oysten, Jim Hunter, Freda
Wesling and cello-player, Jean Hotton.
Freda, who has spent many years
performing in Manchester as part of the
Northern Dance Orchestra, told Reflect:
“The four of us got together after meeting
at various events around the Yorkshire area
when we were playing as part of larger
ensembles or orchestras. We decided to form
a quartet as they’re easier to fit into and
perform in smaller venues. We perform all
over the place, we’re very busy but we enjoy
performing together, especially at weddings.”
A talented group of professional musicians,
the Pavilion String Quartet have performed
at events all over the country, including at
Castle Howard, Crathorne Hall, Duncombe
Park, The National Railway Museum
and The Treasurer’s House (York). With
an extensive repertoire, that includes
everything from Bach to The Beatles, the
Pavilion String Quartet tailor makes a
unique programme to suit your event and
your taste.
The Pavilion String Quartet is available
to perform for as much, or as little, of
your wedding day as you require. Usually
they’re hired to perform during the
ceremony for the bride’s arrival and during
the signing of the register, they can then
perform during the drinks reception as
bride and groom mingle with their friends
and family. Finally, if required, they’re also
happy to perform during the wedding
breakfast, before or after the speeches.
For more intimate events, a string trio
(violin, viola, cello) is available. For more
information, please visit
www.pavilionstringquartet.co.uk or call
Jean Hotton on 01845 525207 or
07890 158584 for a quote.
With a life-long passion for producing delicious yet stunning cakes, Nicky Haines, from Nicky’s
Cakes, is Reflect’s top recommendation for brides-to-be searching for the perfect centrepiece for
their wedding day. In fact, Reflect are so impressed with Nicky’s portfolio of cakes we’ve selected
her for a Certificate of Recognition for Bespoke Wedding Cakes.
On hearing the news, Nicky said: “I’m
thrilled, thank you Reflect. This recognition
is wonderful; I’m over the moon. I’ve been
making cakes all my life; I left school and went
straight into a bakery. I spent 12 years working
for my brother in his bakery but decided two
years ago that it was time to branch out on my
own. I was tired of working for other people
and wanted to be my own boss. I took the
plunge and started Nicky’s Cakes and I’ve never
looked back. I strive to offer a personalised
service and each customer will only ever deal
with me, as I’m the one who will make the
cake. I aim to provide affordable, home-crafted
alternatives to pre-packed supermarket cakes.”
Offering a range of cakes, including
traditional sponge, rich fruit cake, lemon,
carrot, chocolate, coffee and even Irish
cream (which uses Bailey’s), Nicky home
cooks and hand makes each delicious
cake, whether it’s for your wedding day,
birthday and anniversary parties or child’s
christening.
“I pride myself on listening to exactly what
my customer wants,” Nicky explained, “after
all, it’s their cake and their special occasion. I
try to meet all my customers face-to-face to
discuss their requirements, but when that’s not
possible, telephone and email are satisfactory.
We’ll discuss their ideas for their cake, what
their budget is, how many people the cake
needs to feed and any design ideas they may
have. My focus is on what my customer wants
as without them, I have no business.”
Tel: 01452 862175 | Web: www.nickyscakes.co.uk
Unique Wedding Jewellery From
The Cotswold Jeweller
Finding the perfect piece of jewellery to complement your
wedding dress, or even the perfect wedding rings can be a
nightmare. There are so many jewellers on the High Street,
all offering pretty much the same thing. If you’re looking for
something a little different, Reflect would like to recommend
The Cotswold Jeweller, winner of our Certificate of
Recognition for Bespoke Wedding Jewellery.
Established in 2005, The Cotswold Jeweller provides a custom design service for
anyone looking for that unique piece of jewellery or wedding band. Established
by Duncan Hastings, The Cotswold Jeweller is the culmination of 30 years of
experience in the jewellery trade. Duncan told Reflect: “After over 20 years working
for other people, or with other people, within the jewellery trade, mainly in Oxford, I
decided the time was right to strike out on my own and create something new.”
The Cotswold Jeweller offers classic traditional English pieces of jewellery
alongside a wide range of modern and contemporary jewellery at reasonable
prices. Duncan added: “We also take on commission work, allowing us to custom make
and design any piece of jewellery; in the past we’ve made all kinds of unusual and
wonderful items, including jewellery for body piercings as well as the more traditional
wedding bands. Our saving grace in these tough economic times is that we’re flexible.
We’re not your average, run-of-the-mill county jewellers; we stock a fantastic range of
modern jewellery alongside classic pieces from as little as £10. The only way to really see
for yourself is to pay us a visit.”
With such an exciting and vast range of jewellery, it’s not hard to see why Reflect
have selected The Cotswold Jeweller for a Certificate of Recognition for
Bespoke Wedding Jewellery. Reflect Editor, Elaine Ellis, said: “I simply had to
nominate Duncan for this Certificate; he’s always so friendly and helpful when I speak
to him and from what I’ve seen of The Cotswold Jewellery range, there’s some stunning
pieces available to buy for extremely reasonable prices. We’re all looking to save money at
the moment, but your wedding ring is something that you’ll wear every day for the rest of
your life, so you want it to be perfect.”
The Cotswold Jeweller also boasts a gift gallery next door, which sells bronzes and
an array of glass and silverware. Duncan said: “We look small from the outside, but
when customers step inside, they’re blown away by the size of the shop and the array of
stock
5
we
Granville
have.”
Court, Shipston-on-Stour
For more information, or to see this Aladdin’s cave for yourself, please visit 5 Granville Court, Shipston-Stour, Warwickshire or call 01608 666222.
Warwickshire Tel: 01608 Website Coming Soon: cotswoldjeweller.com

20 Railway Heritage
Spear Financial 21
Full Steam Ahead!
Image courtesy of Birkenhead Tramway and Wirral Transport Museum
SETTE MODELS
From Lee Marsh Model Maker
With increased awareness and media coverage of how much carbon we’re emitting
into the air as we travel, one of the most energy-efficient ways to travel is by rail.
Under the right circumstances, a train needs 50-70% less energy to transport any
number of passengers (or a given tonnage of freight), than road transport.
Railways date back 2,000 years, when horse-drawn wagonways appeared in Greece,
Malta, and parts of the Roman Empire. The first railways in Great Britain were built in
the early 17th Century, mainly for transporting coal from the mine to the waterside,
where it could be loaded on to a boat. Iron rails began to replace wooden rails at
the start of the 18th Century and British civil engineer William Jessop designed
edge rails for use on a scheme from Loughborough in 1789.
Thomas Savery, an English military engineer and inventor, patented the first crude
steam engine in 1698. However, the most notable contributor to the history of
the steam engine is James Watt, a Scottish inventor and mechanical engineer. He
made significant improvements to the steam engine, including the 1769 patent for
a separate condenser connected to a cylinder by a valve. Unlike previous engines,
Watt’s design had a condenser that could be cool while the cylinder was hot. Watt’s
engine soon became the dominant design for all modern steam engines and
helped bring about the Industrial Revolution.
Although the first steam locomotive to operate on rails was unsuccessful (the
engine was so heavy that the rails broke under it), in 1811 John Blenkinsop
designed the first successful and practical railway locomotive. The Middleton
Railway was the first steam locomotive railway in Britain to be built under the terms
laid out in an Act of Parliament in 1758. Steam power has dwindled in popularity
over the last century with diesel and electric trains replacing steam in the years
following World War II.
However, steam engines are still loved and celebrated all over the world. Nowadays
there’s a whole steam revival happening across the UK and there are a great
number of museums and rallies offering visitors the chance to learn all about our
country’s railways. Throughout the summer, there are many steam rallies happening
up and down the country, with full-size relics and miniature replicas on display, as
well as numerous vintage vehicles and maybe even a traditional funfair, providing
the perfect opportunity to learn the history of Britain’s transport. These events
capture the magic and excitement of a by-gone era and are the perfect family day
out, whether you’re aged two or 92!
Enjoy A Day Full Of Nostalgia At
Birkenhead Tramway and Wirral Transport Museum
Spear Financial:
Making Your Money
Work For YOU
With times tough and even tougher economic times ahead,
Reflect would like to encourage you to seek the advice of
an independent financial advisor to enable you to make the
most of your money. So, whether you are at the start of your
retirement planning or getting ready to retire, Reflect would
like to recommend Chris Spear at Spear Financial.
Founded in April 2008, Spear Financial was created when Chris decided he wanted to
change the way financial planners worked, as he explained: “I’ve been in the financial services
industry since 1989 and I’ve seen a lot of changes in that time, as you can imagine. I moved to
Derbyshire from the south in 2001 and began working for a fairly large company in Sheffield;
however, by 2008 I knew it was time to set up my own business. I know many people think that
advisers weren’t putting the needs of the client first, so I set up Spear Financial with the sole
aim of making the client the primary focus.
“My unique values are what sets me apart from other financial advisors and I wanted to show a new
way; an open and honest way which put the needs and wants of the client ahead of company profits/
policies. Everything I do depends on building a trusting relationship between myself and my client,
which is why I’m open and honest about everything I do and transparent in the way I work and with
my practices. My customers are my main priority and it seems to be working, as, despite the tough
economic times, my business has continued to grow and prosper.”
Offering experienced and honest advice on any aspect of money management, Chris specialises
in investments, pensions and protection. Chris said: “Many of my clients are the baby-boomers
generation, who are all approaching retirement within the next few years; and because of the strong
relationships I’ve built with them, their children are now turning to me for advice on setting up their own
pensions and investments to plan for their future.
Pilot model for our GWR 3031 Single
High Quality 0 Gauge RTR Brass Models
For more details visit the website or contact us for details.
Sette Models, 1 Salisbury Mews, Edinburgh EH9 1QL
Email: settemodels@gmail.com Tel: 0131 667 3405
(9am - 5pm) 0759 406 2808 (24hrs)
www.settemodels.co.uk
For bespoke models see,
www.leemarshmodelmaker.co.uk
Celebrating all things tram and vintage
vehicle-related, the Birkenhead Tramway and
Wirral Transport Museum promises to take
you on a nostalgic trip through the ages.
Ideal for all the family, this museum brings
Britain’s first generation of tramways back
to life, allowing youngsters to discover more
about the past, whilst those old enough to
remember can enjoy reminiscing.
Since 1995, the Birkenhead Tramway’s
authentic and lovingly restored trams
have been transporting visitors from the
Woodside Ferry Terminal, on the banks of the
River Mersey, one mile up the docks to the
museum. Here, visitors can marvel at a model
railway and a range of restored vehicles, from
trams to buses, motorbikes to cars, with real
restoration work by the Merseyside Tramway
Preservation Society taking place onsite.
The Merseyside Tramway Preservation Society
members are currently working on tram
245, a Liverpool ‘baby grand’ tram belonging
to the National Museums Liverpool, which
will eventually run on the tramway and a
Warrington tramcar. Helping everyone get the
most out of their visit, museum volunteers are
usually onsite to answer any questions you
may have and offer a little of the history of
the displays.
The Birkenhead Tramway service and Wirral
Transport Museum are open every weekend,
1pm – 5pm, and three days a week during
school holidays, so visitors from near and
far can enjoy a nostalgic trip like no other. A
return tram ticket costs just £1.25 for adults
and 65p for concessions and children, and
free admittance to the museum is included.
As dedicated fans of nostalgic days out, last
year Reflect selected Birkenhead Tramway and
Wirral Transport Museum for our Certificate of
Recognition for Top Heritage Attraction.
Find out more by visiting www.visitwirral.com
or www.mtps.co.uk
Call 0151 647 2128 or 0151 652 4177
for information
williamsonartgallery@wirral.gov.uk
mtpsenquiries@yahoo.co.uk
“I see what I do as ‘wealth counselling’; the first thing I do is ask a client what they want their money to
do for them, what their dreams and aspirations are for the future. It’s all about quality of life, and with
life expectancy on the increase, many of us will need huge pension pots when we retire, just to maintain
a quality of life we’ve become accustomed to. I’m not the biggest fan of pensions, I think ISAs are much
better and offer more flexibility, but I don’t let my own opinions affect the advice I give my clients. Each
client is different so each client receives different advice, advice tailor-made for them and their situation.
It’s about building an investment around them and what they want.”
As the main advisor at Spear Financial, clients can rest assured they’ll only deal with Chris, or
his administrative assistant Ann; they can also enjoy building a lasting relationship with Chris
who will see them through the many milestones of their life, re-arranging investments as life
changes.
Chris said: “I like to reassure my clients that this is not a one-off transaction, it’s the start of a longlasting
relationship. I think sound financial advice is vital at the moment; there are so many options out
there, many of which are confusing. Many people will just take the options available to them and may
even miss some very valuable guarantees. I’m really good at shopping around to find the best solution
for the individual – it’s important to consider everything and keep your options open.”
Despite his base in Derbyshire, Chris has clients across
the UK. For more information, or to arrange a meeting,
please call Spear Financial on 01629 640908 or visit
www.spearfinancial.co.uk

22 Animal Rescue Advisory Service
23
Animal Rescue Advisory Service
Helping Dogs In Need For 40 Years
As a working breed, German Shepherds need to be kept busy, so ARAS have
created a working trial field to keep them out of mischief. Having been a dog
warden for 18 years, Coral knows just how to handle the dogs and is able to pass
on her skills and experience to others through ARAS’s own training clubs, where
wannabe owners can discover exactly how to handle the energetic breed.
While Coral has seen more than her share of heartbreak over the dogs she
rescues, there is a happy side to the ARAS story, she adds: “We hear many sad
stories, but when you manage to rescue a dog and find it a new family, it’s such a
wonderful feeling. We often get photographs from families and the dogs just look so
happy and healthy – that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”
Make a donation today by visiting www.arasrescue.org.uk
Alternatively, give a dog a home by calling the ARAS team
today on 01234 743797 or emailing
enquiries@aras-rescue.org.uk
Animal Rescue Advisory Service (ARAS) has been on a mission
for the last 40 years to provide our four-legged friends with the
lives they deserve. Based in Bedfordshire, this dedicated rescue
centre has so far given hundreds of dogs a second chance in life,
but their services are currently stretched to maximum capacity
and they need your help. If you can offer man’s best friend a warm
home, lots of love and long walks, the organisation would love to
hear from you.
ARAS, in Kempston Hardwick, have been working tirelessly to rescue and rehome
dogs in need for the last four decades thanks to the vision and dedication
of its founder, Coral Browne, whose love of man’s best friend, and German
Shepherds in particular, inspired her to launch the service. Coral says: “There was
a very sad incident 40 years ago that led me to start ARAS; I saw a man beating his
dog up in the street and it was so heartbreaking to watch I decided I couldn’t stand by
and not do anything. I took the dog off him there and then, took it home with me and
provided him with the life that he deserved. That one incident had a profound effect
on me and I decided I wanted to do more by setting up ARAS, which incorporates the
German Shepherd Inn due to my love for the breed.”
From humble beginnings, ARAS has grown ten-fold in the last four decades and
has seen hundreds of dogs come and go in that time, the majority of which are
German Shepherds. The organisation’s dedicated rescue centre currently has 60
dogs looking for new homes and is always fit to bursting with dogs looking for
new owners who will give them the attention and affection that they deserve.
The ARAS story has captured the hearts of the Reflect office. The heartbreaking
stories we’ve heard from the organisation and the lengths they’ve gone to in
order to turn the lives of these neglected dogs around has inspired us to award
ARAS our Certificate of Recognition for Animal Care & Support Services.
Reflect Editor, Elaine Ellis, says: “Reading about the shocking scenarios ARAS face on
a daily basis brought me to tears and I struggle to comprehend how cruel people can
be to their own dogs. All dogs deserve to be at the heart of a loving family, rather than
face the mistreatment and neglect they sadly do. I selected ARAS for this Certificate
of Recognition because I wanted to highlight how hard they work and the dedication
they put in every single day of the week to help transform the lives of these dogs. They
thoroughly deserve this recognition and I hope it will inspire our readers to make a
donation to this well-deserving cause.”
Over the years, Coral has seen many horrific sights and has sadly learnt that there
are no depths too low that some owners will sink to, here she retells the horrors
of the worst neglect case she has seen: “I’ve seen many terrible things, but the worse
one was a rescue dog who we found at Christmas in 2009. He was tied to a tree and
couldn’t reach to eat or drink, so he was very undernourished and in quite a state. We
rescued him and took him straight to the vet, but sadly he lived for only nine months as
his health had deteriorated so much. We’ve also seen dogs who have been neglected,
abused and abandoned, but our policy is to never put a dog down, there’s no point in
rescuing them if you’re going to put them down. I believe there’s always a way to work
through it.”
From financial burden to owners struggling to handle them, there are various
reasons why dogs end up in the care of ARAS. Aiming to keep every dog a second
chance in life, ARAS take them in, feed them, provide any veterinary care they’re
in need of and then work hard to find a stable, loving home in which they can live
out the rest of their natural days. Coral says: “We’re always seeking new homes for
the dogs and try our best to attract them through our website and advertising, but it is
tough, particularly in the current financial climate. We’re desperate for donations, whether
it’s a monetary donation or tins of dog food, ARAS really needs the support of the public,
as well as volunteers to walk the dogs. The recession has hit us really hard in terms of
fundraising and re-homing, during the summer holidays we had no-one visit with the
intention of re-homing a dog; if it’s the choice between a holiday and helping a dog in
need, most people will choose the holiday.”

24 Drinking Update
The Hill
Awarded Certificate
of Recognition for
Exclusive Weddings
Looking for the perfect intimate wedding venue
can be a difficult task, which is why Reflect
would like to present to bride and grooms-tobe
The Hill, a stunning 17th Century property
that’s available for private hire throughout the
year for weddings, birthday parties, christenings
and naming ceremonies for up to 110 people,
as well as business meetings and seminars.
Built in 1634, The Hill is about to embark on an
extensive interior refurbishment that will restore
some of the buildings original features, enhancing its
character. Manager, Mike Hill, told Reflect: “We’ve been
here for about six years now and in that time have not
really done anything internally to improve the building,
so we felt it was about time. The Hill has been used for
private hire for some years but we’re looking to give it a
face lift and create that exclusive intimate atmosphere
that today’s brides and grooms crave. By the end of April,
we hope to have the refurbishment complete, just in time
for our peak wedding season, which starts in May.”
Licensed for civil ceremonies, it’s not hard to see
why Reflect have chosen The Hill for a Certificate of
Recognition for Exclusive Weddings. Reflect Editor,
Elaine Ellis, explained why The Hill were selected:
“Finding the perfect venue for your wedding day is
essential but there are so many out there, it can be hard
to narrow down the choices. It’s always best to go on
recommendations as well as viewing each venue, which
is why I’d like to encourage any Reflect reader who likes
what they see here to arrange a viewing; The Hill offers
so much and, I feel, it’s the ideal venue for couples looking
for an intimate and picturesque venue.”
By hiring The Hill, guests get exclusive use of the
ground floor of the property, so couples can rest
assured theirs will be the only wedding and they
won’t have to worry about running into another
bride, or their guests getting lost. Mike said: “If you
choose The Hill, your reception can slip seamlessly into
an evening of dancing, with food and refreshments as
required; alternatively, you and your guests can come
here following a church or registry office ceremony. We
also have a fully licensed bar available exclusively for you
and your guests, and the facilities for a marquee outside
in our extensive picturesque grounds; however, we’re not
licensed to conduct wedding ceremonies outdoors.”
These idyllic gardens provide the perfect back-drop
for wedding photographs thanks to ancient trees and
17th Century architecture evoking the romance of a
bygone era for your special day.
When it comes to food, The Hill caters for up to
80 people in a traditional wedding breakfast set up
with round tables, or 110 people in a more formal
banquet set up; all the catering is done in-house
and the experienced and talented chefs can create
a menu to suit you, whether you want an exclusive
banquet or a simple finger buffet. Hog roasts and
barbecues are also available. Mike said: “Our Head
Chef specialises in designing individual delicious menus,
from four-course silver service to delicate finger buffets
and exquisite, handmade wedding cakes, everything we
make is created with care and attention to detail for your
special day.”
Prices start from £24 per head and packages can be
tailor-made to suit your requirements and budget.
Drinks packages start from £15 per head for arrival
drinks, celebration (toast) drinks and half a bottle
of wine per guest on the wedding breakfast tables.
Mike added: “We can tailor make a package to suit the
individual couple, but for a wedding of 50 people for a
sit down three-course meal and a toast drink can cost
as little as £2,000. We pride ourselves on being very
flexible, as well as having the knowledge and skills to
create the perfect day, and not just where the venue and
food and drink are concerned. We can arrange as much
of the big day as a couple wants; in the past we’ve also
arranged chair covers, balloons and a wedding cake. We’re
very approachable and work with the client from start
to finish to ensure their day is perfect and exactly what
they’d wish for.”
For those considering The Hill for a business meeting
or seminar, audio and visual equipment is in-place for
conferencing, speakers and presentations.
If we’ve whet your appetite and you’d like to see the facilities on offer at The Hill,
please call 01453 764771 or email mike@occasionsatthehill.co.uk
For more information, please visit www.occasionsatthehill.co.uk