Birmingham Back To Backs - Reflect Magazine

free
Issue 088
Birmingham
Back To Backs
Take a step back in time and see the last surviving
court of back to back houses in the West Midlands
at Birmingham Back to Backs, which re-opened in
February. For more info, visit www.nationaltrust.
org.uk/main/w-birmingham_backtobacks or turn
to page 03…
Fun and educational
activities with
Play & Learn
Treat yourself this Easter
and see Rapunzel
See this issue online at www.reflect-magazine.co.uk

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supports Reflect Magazine
02 Leisure Time
03
2012 Spend Highest
The contribution of inbound tourism to the UK economy has continued to grow
in 2012, with latest figures showing a record £19bn in spend, a four per cent rise
on 2011. Figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) also confirmed that
visits were up on 2011 with over 31 million international tourists enjoying a holiday
across Britain, representing a one per cent rise on 2011 and the best year since
2008.
The biggest year in inbound history was anchored by 12 million holiday visits
and good growth of business and Visits to Friends and Relatives (VFR); 2012
witnessed a record number of visits from our ‘rest of the world’ markets at 4.9
million and a record 2.2 million visits from non EU markets.
Britain experienced strong recovery from the high spending and vital North
American (3.7m) and A12 European markets (2.8m), also the strongest since
2008. December 2012 itself was a strong month for inbound tourism with a 12%
increase on visits over the previous December and a 15% increase in spend.
Patricia Yates, Director of Strategy and Communications at VisitBritain said:
“Inbound tourism has shown it can continue to deliver growth to the UK economy
and Britain has managed to avoid the threatened displacement in the year of the
Games.Our tourism strategy was clearly to use the showcasing of the Games and
turn the millions who watched coverage of Britain into visitors in the months
and years ahead. We have made an excellent start and will continue our work
promoting Britain as a great place to visit to deliver further revenue and jobs in the
UK through 2013.”
In Inbound History
Other findings from VisitBritain estimate that 18 million foreign visitors spent a till
busting £4.5 billion in Britain’s shops, meaning 25 per cent of all expenditure by
overseas visitors is on the UK’s high streets and in the country’s impressive range
of department stores.
The VisitBritain survey reveals that the majority of the shopping spend was on
clothes, with an estimated £2.3 billion generated by fashion-conscious foreign
tourists. Many visitors also bought souvenirs, gifts and household goods,
accounting for around £1.6 billion. Further analysis of the research found that a
‘shopping’ tourist spends more – an average of £680 per trip - than an ‘ordinary’
overseas tourist who typically spends £580.
The survey also shows London’s world-class shops, stores and markets are a
major attraction for foreign visitors. Around 81 per cent of holiday visitors to
London went shopping. The regional benefits are also clear, with between two
thirds and three quarters of holiday visitors shopping across the UK.
Of the 18 million visitors, the French are our most prolific shoppers with over two
million trips, followed closely by 1.63 million Germans, 1.63 million Americans, 1.3
million Irish and 1.1 million Spanish. The Dutch, Australians, Italians, Belgians and
Swedes complete the top ten. Of these, it is the Australians who have the highest
propensity to go shopping (over three quarters of all Australian visitors).
For more info, please visit www.visitbritain.com
Sing, Sing A Song, Let The World Sing Along…
Whether it’s as a hobby or part of a career change, learning to sing is a great way to make the most of your leisure time.
With over 40 years of experience in the entertainment and singing industry, Lindsay Benson has a wealth of knowledge
which he’s happy to pass onto the next generation.
Lindsay told Reflect: “I’ve done so much in my career, including numerous TV shows, commercials, radios shows, recordings
and even film scores – the most recent being all three of the Lord of the Rings films with The London voices. I have a wealth
of experience to pass onto my students and once I’ve taught proper singing techniques and how to breathe properly, you
can pretty much sing anything. The main thing I teach my students is the physiology of singing: how to breathe, how to
remain relaxed etc. I, personally, don’t believe I can help everyone learn how to sing – you need to be able to actually pitch a
note, which is why I offer a FREE consultation, which lasts between 15 minutes and an hour, for anyone wishing to enlist my
services.”
Lindsay’s career spans five decades. He left school and completed three years of musical training at North East Essex
Technical College (now The Colchester Institute) before moving onto the Royal Academy where he completed a
scholarship. In the early 1970s, luck was on his side and he began working in TV, singing with various ensembles. TV led
to work on the radio and in 1977 he joined the Swingle Singers, with whom he toured the world extensively for four
years. He left in 1981 when his daughter was born.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Lindsay continued to work in TV, radio and film, as well as singing with ensembles at
the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden and at the Welsh National Opera in Cardiff. For 19 years, he sang at the New
London Theatre in the musical smash hit ‘Cats’. Lindsay explained: “Most musicals have a chorus of singers who sing offstage
to boost the on-stage performers when they get out of breath. For Cats, there were eight of us who would take it in turns
to perform as groups of four for each performance. I did four shows a week for 19 years. I moved away from London five years
ago and have been teaching music to the next generation ever since.”
Following the initial consultation, Lindsay will work with his students, who are all aged 17-years-old and over, to get the
best from their voice. All his lessons (which take place at his home in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire) last for one hour
and can be booked on a week-by-week basis. Lessons are reasonably priced.
For more information, or to book a FREE consultation with Lindsay,
please call 01487 843938 or email lindsay@benson22.freeserve.co.uk
©VisitBritain / Britain on View
Relax & Unwind At
Yapham Coastal Cottages
Situated within one of Devon’s most beautiful
and secluded places, the Hartland Peninsula,
Yapham Coastal Cottages offer an idyllic
setting and superb accommodation for
anyone looking to holiday in Devon. In fact,
Reflect are so impressed with the quality of
the accomodation in these three cottages,
as well as the stunning location that we have
awarded Yapham Cottages with a Certificate
of Recognition for Quality Self-catering
Accommodation.
Dating back to the 16th Century, these ex-farm buildings were sympathetically and
lovingly converted into holiday accommodation 20 years ago. Each offers comfortable
and clean self-catering accommodation, modernised in 2009. All three properties (Barley
Cottage, Windbury Cottage and Shipload Cottage) benefit from central heating and free
Wi-Fi internet.
Barley Cottage sleeps two people, Windbury Cottage sleeps four people in a double room
and sofa bed and Shipload Cottage (the largest cottage) sleeps up to four people in a
double and twin room. Both Barley and Windbury cottages are pet-friendly.
Onsite, guests will find a communal utility room with freezer, washing machine and
tumble dryer, as well as ample space to store walking or wet-weather gear. Linen and
towels are included in the weekly rental price, which starts at £270 in the winter, rising to
£800 per week in the peak summer months. Short breaks are available from November to
March for £150 for two nights.
As Yapham Coastal Cottages are situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
the area’s unspoilt natural beauty is right on your doorstep. The Hartland Peninsula boasts
spectacular rugged coastline, open moors and ancient woodland, all of which are home
to an abundance of wonderful and rare flora and fauna. The best way to explore in on
foot, and with The Southwest Coast Path stretching for 12 miles around the Hartland
Peninsula, you’ve no excuse not to explore.
T: 01237 441916 | W: www.yaphamcottages.co.uk
Take A Step Back
In Time with
Birmingham
Back to Backs
An atmospheric glimpse into the lives of the ordinary people who helped
make Birmingham an extraordinary city.
On a fascinating guided tour, step back in time at Birmingham’s last
surviving court of back to backs; houses built literally back-to-back
around a communal courtyard.
Moving from the 1840s through to the 1970s, discover the lives of some
of the former residents who crammed into these small houses to live and
work. With fires alight in the grates, and sounds and smells from the past,
experience an evocative and intimate insight into life at the Back to Backs.
55-63 Hurst Street/50-54 Inge Street, Birmingham B5 4TE
Tel: 0121 666 7671 | Email: backtobacks@nationaltrust.org.uk

Take a step back in time and see the last surviving
court of back to back houses in the West Midlands
at Birmingham Back to Backs, which re-opened in
February. For more info, visit www.nationaltrust.
org.uk/main/w-birmingham_backtobacks or turn
to page 03…
©VisitBritain / Britain on View
Birmingham
Back To Backs
Issue 088
free
C
Fun and educational
activities with
Play & Learn
Treat yourself this Easter
and see Rapunzel
See this issue online at www.reflect-magazine.co.uk
www.reflect-magazine.co.uk
O
N
02 Leisure Time
04 Contents
06 Spring Time
08 Play & Learn
Editor:
Accounts:
Elaine Ellis
elaine@reflect-magazine.co.uk
0116 262 8096
Anthony Klak
accounts@reflect-magazine.co.uk
0116 251 5919
T
10 Rapunzel
11 The Royal Oak
15 Ruckus In The Garden
Features Writer:
Graphic Designer:
Sales Executives:
Distribution:
Laura Hyde
editorials@reflect-magazine.co.uk
0116 251 7385
Mandeep Kaur
design@reflect-magazine.co.uk
0116 251 7385
Vicky Stonehouse
Jenine Baird
0116 262 8096
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N
16 The Perfect Day
18 Caravan & Camping
20 Something For
The Weekend
21 Homes
Published by:
Printed by:
Reflect Magazine Ltd
Spectrum Printing Services
0116 246 1717
22 Spotlight On The Fens
To subscribe:
Web Design:
to Reflect Magazine call
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23 Here To Help
Name & Registered Office:
REFLECT MAGAZINE
3rd Floor Office,
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Company Number:
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06 Spring Time
07
Time For A Spring Clean
by Laura Hyde
Wednesday March 20th marks the Vernal Equinox – the
first day of spring. It’s traditionally a time for cleaning
the house, ridding it of winter cobwebs and generally
preparing for the summer. So, it’s time to roll up your
sleeves and give it some elbow grease to ensure your
house is shiny from top to bottom…
Living Room
It’s time to focus on all those spots that often get missed: lampshades,
skirting boards and the top of door frames are all places that get
neglected, so make sure you pay them a little attention.
It’s also the perfect time to ensure windows and doors are working
properly. Clean the tracks on sliding windows and doors so you can
enjoy cool summer breezes when the time comes. It’s also the ideal time
to ensure your windows are gleaming – give them a clean by applying
window cleaner and wiping over with a lint-free cloth. Dry them with a
clean sheet of newspaper for a streak-free finish.
Kitchen
With so many appliances and white goods in 21st Century kitchens, we
don’t often have time to clean them all on a regular basis – the arrival of
spring is the perfect time to clean these, focusing especially on clearing
out old food from the fridge, and canned, jarred and packaged goods
from cupboards that have passed their expiry dates. In fact, it’s reported
that most people only clean their fridge once or twice a year, so why not
make an effort to wipe it out and clean any glass shelves and drawers at
least once a month.
The oven is another appliance many people avoid cleaning regularly.
Here, prevention is key; wipe any spills as they happen and don’t let
grease build up. However, if you haven’t cleaned your oven since last
spring, tough measure will be needed to clean away all those meals, with
some debris probably left over from Christmas!
Non-scratch scourer sponges are great for burnt offerings and generally
getting rid of the first layer of grease and debris, but that fired on grease
needs a good soak in the sink with dishwasher detergent.
For inside the oven, an all-purpose oven cleaner is a great idea, as is eye
protection as the last thing you want is to be splashed in the eye with
strong cleaning fluid! Remove the all-purpose cleaner with clean, warm
water and a sponge and wipe away any remaining grime with a nonscratch
scourer pad.
handles a wipe with diluted bleach (50/50) every time you clean the
bathroom.
As well as polishing bathroom mirrors, shower screens and windows,
a ‘spring clean’ gives us the perfect excuse to clear out the bathroom
cabinet; throw out anything half-used that you’ve not touched in the last
six months, and throw out anything you don’t need any more.
Bedroom
The arrival of the warmer weather gives us the chance to clean duvets,
blankets and pillows, but don’t forget to flip your mattress to help
prevent sagging, increasing its lifespan.
Spring is also the perfect time to clean out your wardrobe of anything
you didn’t wear during 2012, and re-introduce some of the summery
clothes you did wear but packed away for the winter. Be strict and get
rid of anything that doesn’t fit or has holes in it that can’t be fixed. Once
you’ve sorted out your wardrobe, pack away your winter clothes and
throw in a mothball or two for good measure.
Bathroom
Like the kitchen, the bathroom is one room in the house every member
of the family uses on a daily basis, so it deals with a lot. The arrival of
spring gives us the chance to clean those often forgotten about places,
such as the shower head. Scientists from the University of Colorado
in America have discovered that there’s a one in three chance that
your shower head is harbouring significant levels of ‘Mycobacterium
avium’, which can cause lung disease. To ensure your shower head isn’t
delivering deadly disease-causing bacteria on a daily basis to your whole
family, unscrew it and place it in boiling water in an old saucepan for 10
minutes. Do this once a month and you’ll be safe in the knowledge you’re
actually having a clean shower.
Another place in the bathroom that can harbour bacteria that’s often
missed during the weekly clean is the light cord. Around one third of
men don’t wash their hands properly after going to the toilet, so your
light cord and even door handle can become a breeding ground for
an array of harmful bacteria. Just give the light cord and any bathroom
Tips
• Make sure you have everything you need before you start to avoid
unnecessary trips to the shops half way through a job.
• Do one room at a time – why not play your favourite upbeat songs to help
keep you in the mood; you’ll also burn more calories with all the dancing!
• Pour a couple of cups of white vinegar into your kettle and boil to remove
limescale – make sure you wash the kettle out thoroughly afterwards.
• Pour half a cup of soda crystals down the drain to prevent blockages – flush
through with hot water.
• To give your house an inexpensive fresh feel for spring, buy some new
accessories, such as candles, throws and cushions, and picture frames.

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supports Reflect Magazine
08 Play & Learn
09
Make Education Fun!
There are few more important moments in life than bringing a new
person into the world. Having a baby is a momentous occasion and
one that will change your life, and the way you look at the world
forever more. The hard work really begins when your baby arrives,
but the worry doesn’t end when the seemingly endless cycle of
feeding, sleeping and nappy changing does.
It is always difficult to trust other people to look after your child once you’re
ready to return to work, but there are many companies out there with excellent
reputations. Finding the perfect place to encourage your child, and develop existing
skills, is difficult. However, the effort will be worth it; by choosing high quality care
before your child goes to school, you’ll be putting them in good stead for school
life. There are numerous nurseries across the Reflect region that not only look after
your child while you’re out at work, but also educate them, enabling your child to be
one step ahead of their classmates once they reach the classroom.
In fact, a revealing study, which tracked the development of 3,000 children over
the course of seven years, discovered those with the longest exposure to nursery
education performed better in tests at the age of seven. Children of all social classes
were found to be four to five months ahead of their peers in terms of education
and scooped better results in national reading, writing and maths tests. Leading
professors from Oxford, London and Nottingham universities also noted that
children with three years nursery education benefitted further, by being 10 to 12
months ahead of children who were brought up entirely at home. This evidence is
a great boost to working parents, who can often feel guilty for sending their child
to nursery, and they can now feel confident that their little one has a bright future
ahead of them.
The latest research also shows that children have become less active over the last
100 years and that English children are now among the largest in Europe. A Health
Survey for England has revealed that one in four adults and more than one in ten
children aged two to ten are now classed as obese. The report also predicted that
unless measures were taken to stop the rise of obesity, 60% of men, 50% of women
and 25% of children would be classed as obese by 2050.
There are many ways to get involved with a new activity and encouraging your
children to spend their leisure time wisely will help to create good, healthier
habits for the future. Throughout the school holidays, many local leisure centres,
swimming baths and youth groups organise programmes of events to keep kids
active. Alternatively, why not plan a cycle or walking route around your local area,
stop off at a local pub for a bite to eat and enjoy the countryside that’s right on your
doorstep. Alternatively, get your friends and family to meet you at the local park
and have a game of football, rounders or cricket – just don’t let the competition get
too fierce!
These fun filled days out will not only allow you to entertain the kids for an
afternoon, but you’ll also help them settle in quicker when they return to school, as
their learning process hasn’t stalled, or stopped completely, whilst they’ve been on
holiday! Finally, and best of all, they won’t even know that the fun they’re having is
also educational – Kids nil, Parents one!
Image courtesy of OLCS
We specialise
in providing
interactive themed
entertainment
for children and
here you will find
everything you
need for your child’s party or corporate
event. Whether it’s a birthday party with 15
children, or an activity day with 1,000 guests,
we are passionate about the work we do.
Our brilliantly talented entertainers all
have an acting background and can create
fantastic, realistic characters your child
will love. We provide the entertainment,
costumes, music, and props and set (on
request), to make your party out of this
world.
Call 07591 416 113 or
01552 820 042 to sprinkle a bit of magic
for your child on their birthday.
gem@shootingstarparties.co.uk
www.shootingstarparties-uk.co.uk
Get ahead with OLCS
Diverse & Unique Care
Getting the right educational start for your son
or daughter is the most important decision in
any parent’s life. At Our Lady’s Convent School
(OLCS), Loughborough, we know that happy,
stimulated children learn more and we provide
a cheerful, family environment where pupils are
stretched not stressed. Your child’s educational
journey will be filled with excitement and wonder
as they develop into fulfilled, well rounded
students equipped for the next stage of their
education.
We guarantee small class sizes and, whilst we
are founded on Christian values, we respect
all faiths. We welcome boys and girls from age
3 to 11 and then focus on a girls’ only senior
school and Sixth Form (11 to 18), enabling them
to fully focus on their studies. We have a long
tradition of providing an holistic approach to
education where your child will be encouraged
and challenged to perform to his or her best
abilities; our academic results reflect how well
our students respond to this approach.
Ring Mrs Ann Fortescue on 01509 638280 for
more information and to arrange a tour of the
school, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
Visit the website for dates of Open Mornings.
Diverse and Unique Care provide a home-from-home
environment where severely disabled and able-bodied
individuals are cared for alongside each other. Care is provided
seven days a week, including overnight care facilities, short and
long-term respite care and childcare on domestic premises.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
‘The mission of Diverse and Unique Care is to work in
partnership with parents to provide all individuals in our care,
with a clean, safe, loving, friendly, home-based environment
where each individual feels valued and treated equally’.
We aim to provide an environment which is not only safe,
loving and friendly, but is also stimulating which, in turn, allows
all individuals to develop their potential. We provide a varied
programme, delivered through active learning and first-hand
experiences. The playrooms are arranged in ways which allow
the children to help themselves to equipment and resources so
they can chose what it is that they wish to play with during their
time at Diverse and Unique Care. We value each individual and
his/her interests and do our best to ensure that their interests
are explored.
At Diverse and Unique Care we understand the importance
of parents and carers roles in their child’s development and
we as care providers like to have a sound knowledge of all
our services users including their interest, likes and dislikes,
hobbies etc. The partnership we share with you is based on
shared responsibility, understanding, mutual respect and open
dialogue. We look forward to caring for your child and hope
their stay is enjoyable!
Come on in,
the water’s lovely!
Join our family of Puddle Ducks and enjoy
baby and pre-school swimming with the
most caring and highly-trained teachers
around.
We love teaching little ones to swim in our
carefully structured, fun lessons, where
every activity is adapted to each child.
Contact our friendly team today on
derbyshire@puddleducks.com or
01332 605729.
Come
and join
the fun!
The award-winning movement
to music, dance and singing
programme for boys and girls from
six months upwards run within a fun,
safe and caring environment.
Fun and exciting classes in Alfreton
& Ripley, book now to reserve your
place.
www.olcs.leics.sch.uk
Diverse and Unique Care
15 Sunnyside, Hinckley, Leicestershire LE10 1TE
Tel: 0333 800 4123
Contact Miss Lucie on
07967 142509
alfretonandripley@babyballet.co.uk

10 Rapunzel
The Royal Oak 11
Blue Peter Legend, Peter Duncan, CITV’s Jenny Jones
and ‘Superstar’ Finalist, Jon Moses to star in
Rapunzel this Easter
Celebrate Mother’s Day At
The Royal Oak
The team behind last Easter’s sell-out tour of The Wizard of Oz are returning to Derby LIVE’s Assembly
Rooms this March with another family treat, a lavish professional pantomime version of Rapunzel.
Enchanted Entertainment, producers of many popular theatre shows nationwide, are planning
another Easter spectacular on Saturday 30th and Easter Sunday 31st March as part of a large-scale
national tour.
Producer Jezz Weatherall said: “We’re really looking forward
to returning to Derby LIVE’s Assembly Rooms on the Rapunzel
tour with this fantastic Easter show. It’s got a great cast of TV
stars and an amazing live band. We know how popular the
Christmas pantomime is and we’re planning to give people
in the area another quality family event during the year.”
Enchanted Entertainment will be bringing 4 action-packed
performances of Rapunzel to the Assembly Rooms. The
cast features a host of top quality professional performers
including: Jenny Jones from ‘CITV’s Hi-5’ as Rapunzel, Jon
Moses from ‘Andrew Lloyd-Webber and ITV’s Superstar’ as
Prince, Kay Purcell ‘Gina from CBBC’s Tracy Beaker Returns
and The Dumping Ground’ as Gothel the Enchantress, Peter
Duncan ‘Blue Peter Legend’ as Muddles, as well as Andrew
Crawford and Joe Chambers from ‘CBeebies The Rhyme
Rocket’ as Joey and Jape the Jesters.
Director Guy Pascall said: “It’s going to be great fun and a
real Easter holiday treat for all the family. Ever since Disney
released the wonderful animated film Tangled in 2010, we’ve
been asked by so many people to bring a ‘live’ version
of the Rapunzel story to the stage. Our show will take the
original Rapunzel fairy-tale written by The Brothers Grimm
and give it a new pantomime twist as only Enchanted
Entertainment can!”
Enchanted Entertainment are spending hundreds of
thousands of pounds to ensure the Rapunzel tour will be a
spectacular family production, bringing together a top cast,
amazing costumes, fantastic dance routines and plenty of
songs to please all ages!
Tickets priced from £16 - £18 are on sale and
already selling fast. Call the Derby LIVE Box
Office on 01332 255800 or book online at
www.derbylive.co.uk

The RCA 01923 354367
supports Reflect Magazine
12 The Royal Oak
13
Treat The One You Love This St Valentine’s Day,
At The Royal Oak
Mums are pretty special people; as well as giving us life, they also celebrate our achievements,
console our disappointments and prepare us for life as an adult, as well as eventually
(possibly) becoming a parent ourselves.
It’s that time of year again, time to show your mum/wife/grandma/mother-inlaw
just how much they mean to you and how appreciated they are, which is
why Reflect would like to point you towards The Royal Oak, situated in Old
Malton in rural Yorkshire. A traditional village pub with an abundance of olde
world charm and character, The Royal Oak is the perfect for a relaxing Sunday
afternoon meal out with all the family this Mother’s Day.
As a pub for over 300 years, The Royal Oak in Old Malton, Yorkshire has
a wealth of history in its walls. Owned by Ian Turner for the last 24 years,
The Royal Oak is a unique and quirky traditional village pub, often referred
to as ‘an institution’ by locals thanks to its abundance of olde world charm
and character. Built around the mid-17th Century, The Royal Oak has
retained much of its character over the years, which adds to the friendly and
welcoming atmosphere felt by all who cross the threshold.
Ian told Reflect: “We always have five real-ales on tap, as well as three draught
continental lagers and all the usual spirits and shorts. I rarely have to leave Yorkshire
for real-ales because we have so many breweries here and as I own the pub
independently, I’m not tied to any brewery, meaning I can bring my customers only
the best. I guess you could say our flagship real-ale is ‘Guzzler’ from York Brewery.
It’s a very tasty ale for its low gravity; it’s very fruity and hoppy. Another customerfavourite,
especially with the ladies, is ‘Golden Pinnin’ from Copper Dragon Brewery.
I’m not sure what makes it so popular with the ladies but it is very apple-ly and
citrusy, so maybe that’s why they love it.”
For Ian, The Royal Oak isn’t just about real-ales; he takes great pride in
providing a very traditional, almost retro, menu filled with classic pub grub,
such as homemade soup of the day, scampi, fresh fish from Whitby, steaks, pies
and award-winning sausages using meat from local farms, as well as a range of
vegetarian dishes using produce from local farms.
This Mother’s Day, The Royal Oak will be serving their specially created
menu on Sunday 10th March for the lady in your life. The menu boasts a
choice of starters (including homemade soup of the day and deep fried
breaded camembert with cranberry sauce), mains (including roast topside
of beef, roast pork loin and Greek salad) and desserts (including homemade
chocolate brownie with ice cream, sticky toffee pudding and cheese and
biscuits) as well as four vegetarian options (including mushroom stroganoff
and veggie burger with chunky chips). Anyone wishing to dine at The Royal
Oak this Mother’s Day must pre-book to avoid disappointment.
Ian added: “We make everything from scratch, including all our sauces, such as
our apple sauce, our horseradish sauce and our coleslaw. The only thing we bring
in is our bread, which is freshly baked by a local bakery. Not only is everything
homemade and delicious, it’s also really good on your wallet. Soup of the day is just
£3 with a roll for an extra £1, and our steaks are excellent value at just £10.50.
We’re really lucky to have local girl, Kelly Williams, as our head chef. Kelly owned
her own restaurant with her sister for many years on the Algarve, so she brings a
wonderful Mediterranean flare to everything she prepares.
“By bringing the ladies in your life here for Mother’s Day, not only will you enjoy a
delicious homemade, freshly prepared meal, but there won’t be any fights over who
does the washing up afterwards! It’s win/win because she gets to relax, you get to
treat her and you don’t have to do anything – just turn up and we’ll do the rest.”
As well as intimate meals, The Royal Oak can host your special occasions,
anything from cosy affairs to larger, more flamboyant do. During the winter, Ian
and his team can easily accommodate 45, whilst during the summer, weather
permitting, this increases to 80. The Royal Oak often plays host to themed
evenings and recently held both Spanish and Greek themed evenings, with
authentic food, drink and music.
The Royal Oak is open Tuesday to Sunday 12noon until 12midnight, with food
available from 12noon until 2pm from Friday to Sunday and from 5pm until
8pm from Thursday to Saturday. The Royal Oak is closed on Mondays, except
Bank Holiday Mondays.
For more information, please visit
www.royaloakoldmalton.co.uk or
call 01653 699334
The Royal Oak, 47 Town Street, Old Malton,
Malton, Yorkshire YO17 7HB
Previous Customer Feedback:
“A fantastic little find… we had a weekend away with friends in
Scarborough and fancied a nice Sunday meal. We found The Royal Oak
and loved it. Fantastic home-cooked food with a lovely service, and best
of all lovely staff, who were very friendly. Well worth a visit - you won’t be
disappointed.”
“A lovely warm atmosphere… we called in on our way back from a
weekend in Scarborough for a pub lunch and had a gorgeous Sunday dinner.
The service was lovely service and we were made to feel really welcome. We
sat in the beer garden and had a few drinks after our meal, which was very
pleasant. Thank you for a great end to our weekend.”
Our editor Elaine presents Ian from The Royal Oak with a
Certificate of Recognition for Leisure & Entertainment.

The RCA 01923 354367
supports Reflect Magazine
14 Leisure Time
Ruckus In The Garden 15
Derby Theatre Youth Theatre
present RUCKUS IN THE
GARDEN by David Farr
As their first ever production; Derby Theatre Youth Theatre will present David Farr’s
magical comedy, Ruckus in the Garden, on Friday 5 th and Saturday 6 th April.
Derby Theatre Youth Theatre, led by East Midlands-based Junk Shop Theatre Company, in association with Derby Theatre,
was formed towards the end of 2012 and the group’s first meeting and rehearsal took place in January. The group consists
of 50 young people from all across Derbyshire, between the ages of 11 and 18, and they meet once a week, on a Sunday,
to rehearse. The group works with, and alongside, theatre professionals, both in relation to the production and other theatrerelated
workshops and activities.
Ruckus in the Garden is a very funny and entertaining look at the trials of being a teenager with a modern nod to A
Midsummer Night’s Dream. It’s fast-paced and full of action as two rival schools meet on a school trip to a stately home and
the Garden of Cecil Fortescue. Numerous fights break out between some unlikely opponents and the girls are just as feisty
as the boys! However, when the statues in the garden come to life, and start playing tricks on the teens, that’s when things
get really complicated, and some home truths are revealed. With an array of characters, including hopeless and sometimes
hysterical romantics, a pacifist who gets beaten up, and a garden that is much more alive than at first meets the eye; some
issues are wrapped up in the comedy and mayhem which allows us an insight into the lives and pressures of young people
today.
Christina Lydon (Learning Manager, Derby Theatre) said: “Since starting to work together at the beginning of
2013, our youth theatre has already achieved a huge amount, both in relation to the rehearsal and
production process, and in building their performance and theatre-related skills and knowledge. We
have a really talented company of young actors who are working brilliantly together and creating
what should be a very funny and entertaining production. The young people have devised a lot of
the staging themselves and it’s really exciting to see it all coming together.”
Rehearsal-related blog
Visit our website www.derbytheatre.co.uk for a fun and informative insight into how rehearsals
are going (from the perspective of two or three youth theatre members).
At The Royal Oak we believe that we have a beautiful and traditional English pub, where everyone is welcome
and all needs can be met. The pub was built in the mid-17th Century and not a great deal has changed since.
We pride ourselves on our selection of locally brewed real cask ale, which is cared for by a landlord with over
thirty years’ experience. We are also very proud of our homemade food and desserts. It is important to us that
ingredients are locally sourced, so that we can play a part in supporting the local economy and also the wider
environment. We try our best to deliver friendly and helpful service to you all, whether you are having a quick
drink and nibbles, or settling in for the night, in front of our open fire.
If there is anything any of us can do for you, please don’t hesitate to ask.
The Royal Oak, 47 Town Street, Old Malton, Malton YO17 7HB | 01653 699334 |www.royaloakoldmalton.co.uk
Tickets: £8, concessions £6, family
ticket (4 people) £20 for all
performances. For more information
and to book tickets please call the
Box Office on 01332 59 39 39 or visit
www.derbytheatre.co.uk
Ruckus in the Garden contains some
mild swearing, a bit of snogging and
a sprinkling of magic!

The RCA 01923 354367
supports Reflect Magazine
16 The Perfect Day
17
Your Dream Wedding
If you’ve recently taken the plunge and got engaged first things
first, spread the news. Tell everyone: your friends, your family,
your co-workers, even your hairdresser! Hearing their words of
congratulations is all part and parcel of enjoying being engaged.
Your face is sure to hurt from smiling so much, but it’ll be worth it!
Once you’ve settled into your new role as one half of an engaged
couple, it’s time to get planning…
Step 1: Set A Budget
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 need to plan carefully to avoid starting married life in debt. Whatever
your budget you settle on, it’s a good idea to open a ‘wedding bank account’
so any spare cash, other than your planned monthly wedding savings, can be
put straight into this account and the cash won’t get spent unnecessarily – the
pounds will soon add up!
Step 2: Think about when/how you want to marry
The season in which you choose to tie the knot is extremely important as it
dictates everything else, from the kind of flowers you can have to whether you
chose an outdoors or indoors reception venue. The summer months are the
most popular time of year to get married, so to avoid your guests possibly having
to choose between your wedding and another, why not opt for spring, autumn
or winter nuptials.
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. Marriage ceremonies can take place
on any day (except Saturdays in the Jewish faith) of the week from 8am until
6pm, although there may be restrictions for religious ceremonies, such as at
Christmas or over Easter.
An estimated 15% of UK couples choose to get married abroad; popular
destinations include the Caribbean, the USA and Italy. There are numerous
companies out there who will help you plan your wedding from afar, but you will
need your birth certificate or decree absolute (if you’ve been married before).
Step 3: Choose Your Venue
There are around 4,000 licensed venues across the UK, ranging from register
offices to churches and from hotels to castles; whatever you want, there’s a
venue out there to suit you. In fact, in Scotland you can tie the knot pretty much
anywhere, providing your officiating clergy agrees.
For a civil ceremony, you need to give notice of your marriage, in person, at your
local register office; this notice is then displayed for 15 days (objections can be
made during this time). After this, your licence to marry is valid for one year,
unless you change your venue.
For a Christian ceremony, you must give notice of your intention to wed through
the reading of Banns during a Sunday service at the parishes where you live and,
if it’s different, the parish in which you plan to marry. Banns are usually read for
three consecutive Sundays during the three months before your chosen wedding
date.
Worswell Barton Farm
B&B, Self-catering and
Wedding Venue
Discover A Unique Destination For Your Hen/Stag Do
Nestling beneath the famous Goodrich
Castle, in the beautiful, tranquil heart of
the Wye Valley, Flanesford Priory offers selfcatering
accommodation for stag and hens
looking to enjoy either a relaxing weekend or
active getaway.
Timos Hog Roast
The Perfect Wedding Favours from ‘Can I Do You a Favour?’
Situated on the Peninsula of the River
Yealm, about a mile from the picture
postcard villages of Noss Mayo and
Newton Ferrers near Plymouth in
Devon, Worswell Barton can offer the
opportunity to future brides and grooms
of a venue overlooking the sea, lush
green fields, the River Yealm estuary, with
the scenic glories of Dartmoor in the
distance.
Guest accommodation can also be
provided with B&B or self-catering, both
properties are 4 stars AA rated.
PBR Farms, Farmhouse B&B | S/C Cottage
Worswell Barton, Noss Mayo, Plymouth
Devon PL8 1HB
01752 872977
info@worswellbarton.co.uk
www.worswellbarton.co.uk
The historical buildings at Flanesford Priory
have been lovingly converted into beautiful,
self-catered apartments ranging in size.
All fully furnished, these ten self-catering
apartments sleep up to 42 people in total and
are available for any day check-ins.
The majority of the properties are graded
three stars, but The Cider Mill, which sleeps
six, is rated five stars. This luxury apartment
is set aside from the main building for
exclusivity and boasts two deluxe master
bedrooms, with impressive en-suites, and a
twin room, with a sleek wet room. With all
modern conveniences, the kitchen centres around the original Cider Mill Wheel, used
for generations to crush the apples, which has been transformed into a unique dining
table. The living area is plush and cosy, with a log fire and under-floor heating. The twin
bedroom and downstairs area are disabled friendly, with mobility issues being catered for
in an unobtrusive manner. Outside, the property benefits from a private patio with garden
furniture, barbecue with stunning views of the River Wye and Coppett Hill.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adrenaline-fuelled fun, Flanesford Priory is
the perfect base. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the region boasts
breathtaking countryside, which can be enjoyed on foot with an easy afternoon stroll, or
by engaging in one of the area’s numerous activities, such as mountain biking, canoeing,
gorge walking or even quad biking. Beauty therapists can also be arranged for hens
looking for relaxation and pampering before the big day.
Tel: 01600 890506 | Web: www.flanesfordpriory.co.uk
Mouth-watering hog roasts from
Staffordshire. Neil, Debbie & Keith have
been providing quality hog roasts for over
10 years.
Consequently with many satisfied
customers, many of our bookings are
repeat business or by recommendation.
We are based between Stafford and Stokeon-Trent,
so we are well-placed to cover
Staffordshire and neighbouring areas.
From 40 to 200, we cater for weddings,
parties, anniversaries, christenings,
birthdays, schools, corporate events and
probably your type of function.
Besides hog roasts we also provide spit
roasts of either beef, turkey, lamb or
venison.
Phone 07977 843 801 for a chat & quote.
Website currently under construction.
Timo’s Hog Roasts, New Fields Farm,
Cotwalton, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 8TA
Are you looking for the perfect favours for your big day but are having trouble
finding THE perfect gift for your guests? Reflect would like to point you in the
direction of Laura Lane and ‘Can I Do You A Favour?’, a newly formed company
specialising in handmade, made-to-match favours, boxes, bags and other
stationery.
Created to give Laura an income she could earn whilst caring for her young twin
sons, ‘Can I Do You A Favour?’ create, design and make a range of wedding favours
to suit any budget, theme or colour scheme. Laura said: “I made the wedding
favours for my own wedding and have always been artistic, so when I gave birth to
my twins it made sense to me to start my own business, which would enable me to fit
work in around my children. I cater for any budget and each item can be tailored to
any colour scheme or theme. I aim to give every bride and groom exactly what they
want – I know how important and how special your wedding day is so I want to help
couples achieve their dreams.”
Favour boxes are available in a wide range of colours and designs. They can be
made to suit any theme or colour scheme. Favour boxes are filled with a standard
filling of two foil covered chocolate hearts and either ten sugared almonds or ten
large chocolate dragees. The colours of the filling will match the colour scheme of
the box. As well as favour boxes and bags, ‘Can I Do You A Favour?’ can also supply
table plans, place cards, order of service and menus – invites will be available by
the end of 2013.
Laura added: “I am able to make samples if you’re not sure what you want. I do
charge for these samples but the cost of the sample is removed from your final total
if you do choose my design for your big day. If you do not see exactly what you are
looking for on my website, then please do get in touch, giving as much detail as
possible, and I will create a sample based on your individual requirements.”
To keep young ones entertained during the ceremony and speeches, ‘Can I Do
You A Favour?’ can supply Children’s Activity Boxes, which are filled with lots of
activities and a few treats – children will love them! The contents of each box can
be tailored to suit the age/gender of the children – if you have a specific idea
about the contents of these boxes, please contact Laura.
Laura has recently added to the ‘Can I Do You A Favour?’ repertoire; Wishing Trees
and Frames are now available to hire. Wishing Trees are available to hire for £35
(plus a deposit of £50 to cover any damages, which is refunded once the tree
is returned), which includes 50 tags for guests to write their wishes on, pens,
signage and decoration.
Can I Do You A Favour?
Tel: 07740 346633
Web: www.canidoyouafavour.com
Email: candoyouafavour@gmail.com

The RCA 01923 354367
supports Reflect Magazine
18 Caravan & Camping
19
Go Camping Crazy
©VisitBritain / Rod Edwards
The Beeches
Caravan Park
Covering 152,033 square miles, Great Britain has an abundance of places to discover and explore. A holiday within
the British Isles would allow you to not only avoid the stress of going abroad, but also discover some of the magical,
mystical and down-right spectacular places on this Isle we call home.
If you’re watching the pennies or looking for a greener getaway, a holiday in the UK provides couples and families with a cheap and cheerful, fun-filled break, with
no passport required, courtesy of a caravan and camping holidays.
As a self-catering, no frills alternative to a package holiday, providing flexibility and freedom, camping and caravanning 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 cramped caravans, soggy sleeping bags and the infamous shiver-provoking showers, it’s a well-kept
secret by keen caravanners that they’re not as behind with technology as one might think. Today, many caravans come generously equipped with DVD players, Sky,
Freeview, double beds, toilets and private shower cubicles. Not only that but even 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 locations up and down the country, caravanning and camping offer no restrictions and with so much choice, you can go as near or far as you like. Kids can
help with setting up tents and they’ll love the experience of sleeping under canvas, as well as getting involved in the great outdoors. Kid-friendly campsites usually
offer some entertainment, but they’re guaranteed to make new friends wherever you choose to go.
Since the 2008 recession, caravanning and camping breaks have enjoyed something of a revival. With so many households watching every penny, now’s the
perfect time to invest in a static caravan on a picturesque caravan site. A great investment for your money, not only can you enjoy your new holiday home
whenever the mood takes you, you can also rent it out to friends and family and even strangers looking for a budget UK break.
The Beeches Caravan Park is a small,
quiet park in a peaceful village, five
miles north of Cockermouth, Cumbria.
Luxury static caravans are available
for hire on a weekly basis or for short
breaks. The park is open all year round.
There is a shop/Post Office, laundry
room and a large children’s play area
onsite.
The caravans are spaciously set out in
attractive landscaped grounds with car
parking beside each caravan. A five mph
speed limit is in operation around the
park. Caravans accessible to wheelchairs
are available.
Superb food and drink are available at
The Masons’ Arms nearby. They also
offer takeaways.
Gilcrux, Wigton,
Cumbria CA7 2QX.
Tel: 016973 21555
www.thebeechescaravanpark.com
henry@thebeechescaravanpark.com
Masterland Farm Caravan Park
Awarded Certificate of Recognition
Located on a private working farm in the
heart of Pembrokeshire, on the edge of
the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park,
Masterland Farm Caravan Park is a familyfriendly,
family-run site catering for touring
caravans, motorhomes and tents. Reflect has
awarded this long-established site a Certificate
of Recognition for Peace & Tranquillity.
Founded in 1972 with just ten pitches,
Masterland Farm Caravan Park is an ideal location for a relaxing family holiday, away from
the hustle and bustle of daily life. A warm welcome awaits all visitors at Masterland, which is
owned by Kevin Bonser, whose father established the Park over 40 years ago.
Today, Masterland offers 38 pitches, as well as a modern toilet/wash block with flush toilets,
free hot showers, wash basins, shaver points and hairdryers, washing up area and laundry,
a children’s play area, a bar and restaurant, a takeaway and a shop for those daily essentials.
The Park is open for 11 months of the year, from February until January. Each pitch benefits
from electric hook-up and costs £12.50 per night in the winter, rising to £21 per night in the
summer. Both hard standing and grass pitches are available. Prices include awnings, hot
water for dish washing sinks, sinks and showers. Extra charges apply for families of more than
two; there is no charge for children under two-years-old.
On hearing the news of the Certificate of Recognition for Peace & Tranquillity, Kevin said:
“Thank you so much Reflect. This Certificate is a wonderful recognition of everything we offer
here at Masterland Caravan Park. I hope this Certificate encourages more of your readers to come
and enjoy a stay with us, whilst also exploring the beautiful county of Pembrokeshire and the
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.”
Seasonal pitches and caravan storage
are also available. Dogs are welcome. For
further information, call 01834 813298 or
email k.bonser@btconnect.com
Alternatively, visit
www.masterland-farm.webs.com
Charming Camping In Cornwall
Situated in the heart of Cornwall, Mena Caravan & Camping Park is a spacious and
secluded family-run holiday park welcoming campers and caravanners from across the
UK throughout the year. Established for over 15 years, Mena was taken over five years
ago by experienced and passionate caravanners Ralph and Kirsty Abbott, as well as
Kirsty’s father, Ian Robertson, who have invested considerably in The Park’s facilities.
Kirsty explained: “When we bought
Mena, it was quite run down; it was just
a camping field with a block of toilets.
We’ve landscaped the whole park, planting
flowers, bushes and trees to give the park
some year-round colour and vibrancy.
We’ve also refurbished the toilet block,
built an office/reception building and a
shop; we’re currently in the process of
building a café and a deck area for campers to eat and relax. We fell in love with the
location; on the top of hill, Mena boasts some of the most breathtaking views across
Cornwall. We’re also just outside the village of
Lanivet, which is situated in the very centre of
Cornwall, making all the county’s attractions easily
accessible, as well as everything south Devon has
to offer.”
A mainly level park, Mena boasts 16 acres of open
space (four of which are reserved for camping)
including a small fishing lake and wooded area, a
children’s play area located in the centre of the
camping field making it extremely safe for children
to play, an indoor games barn and pet pigs, ducks and chickens, which are happy to be
fed by young campers.
This three-star site is within easy reach of the beaches and coves on both the North and
South coast, as well as the waves at the great north coast surfing beaches of Newquay
and Polzeath. Mena is situated just three miles from the National Trust’s fantastic
Lanhydrock House & Gardens and four miles from The Eden Project.
Prices for a stay at Mena start from £11 per night. Two seven-berth static
caravans are available from £210 per week.
For more info, visit www.campsitesincornwall.co.uk or call 01208 831845.
Chiverton
Park
Chiverton Park is a small familyrun
site offering a high standard of
accommodation. We are situated in the
heart of glorious Cornish countryside.
Chiverton Park is just a few minutes
drive from the rugged grandeur and
beauty of the north Cornish Coast,
with its many golden sandy beaches
and coves, providing superb surfing or
body boarding.
Chiverton Park is a family and
couple orientated park in peaceful
surroundings and is personally
supervised by Andy and Melanie
whose aim is to ensure that your
holiday is enjoyable and care-free. Pets
are welcome.
Chiverton Park, Blackwater
Truro, Cornwall TR4 8HS
Tel: 01872 560667
Mob: 07789 377169
Seaview
Holiday Village
Situated between
the historic fishing
villages of Looe and
Polperro, Seaview
Holiday Village is
the ideal location
for exploring SE Cornwall. We offer a
wide range of accommodation in chalets,
bungalows and caravans, many of which
have sea views and their own patios.
Free entertainment every evening in
our clubhouse for all the family, indoor
pool, steam room and sauna, children’s
paddling pool and playground and games
room. The perfect spot for both families
and couples.
Visit our website at
www.seaviewholidayvillage.co.uk
for full details.
Seaview Holiday Village,
Polperro, Cornwall PL13 2JE
Tel: 01503 272335
Email: reception@seaviewholidayvillage.co.uk
Wood Nook Caravan Park
Wood Nook Caravan Park in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales
Wood Nook Caravan Park is located in Upper Wharfedale, two miles
from Grassington, in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Our park includes six acres of woodland, which has various wildlife
and wild flowers. Spring time and early summer is especially colourful
with Primroses and Violets. The highest point of our woodland gives a
wonderful view of Grassington and surrounding dale.
Our park is quiet and peaceful, attractive and clean. Wood Nook is
ideally situated for a walking holiday and is also within easy driving
distance of many well-known places of interest.
We cater for touring caravans, motor homes and tents, as well as our
caravan holiday homes for hire and holiday cottage to rent.
Tel: 01756 752412 | Fax: 01756 752946 | Email: info@woodnook.net
Wood Nook Caravan Park , Skirethorns, Threshfield, Skipton,
North Yorkshire BD23 5NU

supports Reflect Magazine
20 Something For The Weekend
Homes 21
Live For The Weekend
Robs
Mews Surf
Bar & Grill
The RCA 01923 354367
According to the latest figures from homebuilder Redrow, the UK mortgage market has been
boosted by several government lending schemes. Funding for Lending (a scheme run by the
Bank of England) and the NewBuy scheme (which enables people to get a 95% mortgage) have
helped first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder.
Historically ‘the beating heart of the housing market’, first-time buyers have struggled to save
deposits big enough to get them on that first rung of the property ladder over the past four
years. The latest figures from Redrow are great news for any homeowners looking to sell their
property and move up the ladder.
©VisitBritain / Daniel Bosworth
Are you one of those people that say to themselves every Monday morning – ‘where did my
weekend go’? With spring just around the corner and the lighter nights giving each of us an
hour or two after work, now’s the time to make the most of your leisure time.
After a long, hard week, there’s no better way to blow off the cobwebs than to escape
to somewhere nice for the weekend. Whether you choose a city break, romantic country
retreat or action-packed adventure weekend, the break is sure to leave you feeling
refreshed and help you really switch off. The UK has some superb places, with Areas of
Outstanding Natural Beauty and places of historic interest, that’ll relax you, reviving your
soul.
Taking the kids along to one of the many educational yet fun museums and galleries we
have in and around the Reflect region is an excellent and productive way to spend your
weekends. As well as being educational and fun, you can get the kids out of the house
without catching your death of cold in the outdoors. Britain’s 2,500 museums cater for all
tastes and many are also free, head to www.visitbritain.com for more ideas.
If your budget is a little tight, then don’t despair – the best things in life are free, remember!
Walking and cycling are not only great ways to get out of the house, but they’re also great
ways to explore the country and get fit at the same time. Why not spend the day walking or
cycling around your local area; you could stop off for lunch at a local pub for a bite to eat,
and enjoy the countryside that’s right on your doorstep, which is just as picturesque in the
autumn and winter as it is in the spring and summer.
MOBILE CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING
FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY
Fancy a challenge or something
different? We specialise in teaching
ladies and juniors. All guns and
equipment supplied. No licence
required.
Fully mobile and able to come to you at
your venue at a suitably sized location.
Fully insured and police approved.
For more information -
Who ya gonna call?
‘CLAYBUSTERS’
Rob: 07762 159520
www.claybusters.net
*** FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY ***
The Mews is a family-run grill restaurant, run
by David and Steph, a local chef and his wife.
The restaurant is a grill bar, specialising in
local meat and fish produce and features
a daily and weekly specials board option
which is cooked to order. All grills are
cooked on restaurant-grade charcoal to
provide that essential taste and freshness for
the perfect grill.
Fresh fish of your choice can be ordered
24 hours in advance and our chef will be
delighted to cook this to your requirement.
Vegetarian and specials are also part of our
menu range. The friendly family atmosphere
is complete with a children’s choice of menu.
The bar selection has bottled and draft
beers and a house selection of wines.
A warm and friendly welcome with excellent
food at competitive prices awaits you in the
Mews, or if you would prefer, outside in our
heated courtyard garden.
Mews Surf Bar & Grill, Upper Frog Street,
Tenby, Pembrokeshire SA70 7JD
Tel: 01834 844 068
Home Is Where
The Heart Is
Many homeowners have been forced to adopt an ‘improvements culture’ since the housing
market crashed in 2008. According to a survey of estate agents, carried out by Rics in early
2012, more and more homeowners are following this trend, hoping to add value to their home
rather than moving. They hope to make improvements to their home to limit the affect falling
house prices and a stagnant market has on the overall value of their property.
Rics discovered that the best ways to increase the value of your home was with the addition
of another bedroom, closely followed by a new kitchen or bathroom. If you choose to make
improvements to your home this winter, be sure not to scrimp – the cheapest quote you get
might not give you the best result, so hire reputable, recommended companies to carry out
any work and ensure you always use the best products, fixtures and fittings that your money
can buy.
If you’re looking to update your home, it’s worth working out what you can afford to spend
and stick to it. It’s amazing what a fresh lick of paint can do – if you want to make the
accessories stand out, or make the scheme easy to change, opt for a neutral colour, but if you
want to make a statement, choose a colour you love and complement it with natural/neutral
furniture that can be used time and time again. Filling your home with personal mementoes
ensures your house always feels like home.
In the last decade, buying vintage and pre-loved items, both to wear and to use within our
home, has become fashionable and ‘cool’. We used to have spare cash to splash out on new
furniture and accessories, but the recession and following economic instability has made us reassess
our spending habits. Many of us are now making do with what we have, or hunting out
pre-loved quality items on eBay, at car boot sales, house clearances and at reclamation yards.
Home to a wealth of unwanted yet pre-loved, quality items, reclamation yards are the perfect
place to go if you want to update your whole house, or just one room, on a tight budget.
Every home takes years to grow, to become a personal space filled with memories, mementos
and souvenirs of the people that live there, so don’t force the look of any room; let it develop
and grow naturally.
Welcome to Pole Mission. We are an
upcoming company who specialise in the
art of pole dancing, aerial silks, trapeze
and Burlesque. As an organisation, we
offer the general public the opportunity
to attend fitness classes, offer professional
performers for events, hold aerial/
pole parties and give our students the
opportunity to earn a small fortune from a
hobby. Aerial dancing is an overpowering
and skilful form of dance, which is created
with unusual and extraordinary genres,
ranging from gymnastics and ballet to the
more seductive and sensual side.
For a professional service and more
information, don’t hesitate to call us now
on 07702 948513.
info@poledancerz.co.uk
Pole.mission@hotmail.co.uk
North Wingfield Chesterfield S42 5NL
See Devon From A Different Perspective
Situated in the sheltered waters of Devon and the south coast, Sea Kayak Devon is the brain
child of outdoors enthusiast Ben Brierley, who founded the business after 15 years working
and running other businesses in the industry. Offering guided tuition that take kayakers
through Devon’s spectacular and tranquil environment, Sea Kayak Devon aims to develop
your skills with the paddle.
Guided trips
Courses
Wild camping
Ben told Reflect: “Devon is a truly wonderful
area of the country for sea kayaking, that’s
why I chose to set up my business here. It’s an
amazingly varied section of coast which enables
us to offer a large selection of kayaking trips on
the south coast. Sea Kayak Devon offers courses
for everyone, from the total beginner, right up
to those training to become British Canoe Union
accredited instructors. We can teach individuals,
groups of friends and even families with young
children. We have a double kayak so parents
and children can team up and all our courses
are offered on demand, so most of the time you
can give us just a days’ notice. Our student to
instructor ratios are second-to-none; we always
make sure we have one instructor to six students
to guarantee personal attention and safety at
all times.
“Safety is our top priority because the sea is a
Family taster sessions
very changeable environment. All our instructors
are qualified to the highest level, they’re up-todate
on all the latest training and we always make sure there are enough instructors per group.
I set up here in Dartmouth because the location is not only stunning, but it also offers so many
options; it‘s the ideal location whatever the weather. We always check the weather reports and if
we know there’s going to be bad weather out at sea, we take students around the estuaries and
old river valleys that are sheltered and calm no matter what the weather.”
For more information, please call 01392 580535
or visit www.seakayakdevon.co.uk
This Georgian
mansion is
idyllically
located,
surrounded
by the
Pembrokeshire
National Park.
Our latest
addition is a
state-of-the-art,
£2m spa and leisure facility.
Just two miles from award-winning
but secluded beaches and coves and
the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, the
perfect retreat from which to explore the
locality.
Why not come for lunch or dinner in our
award-winning Georgian restaurant.
We also specialise in hosting weddings,
private parties & events conferences.
Take a look at our latest offers...there’s
always an excuse to get away to a very
special place!
Lamphey Court Hotel, Lamphey,
Pembrokeshire SA71 5NT
01646 672 273
www.lampheycourt.co.uk
• Convenient
location just off A50
• 24 hour
security CCTV
• Monitored
access control
• Your own secure
locker room
• Car storage
• All storage areas on
ground floor
• Collection service
• Packing materials
Sinfin Lane, Barrow on Trent,
Derby DE73 7HH
Tel: 01332 702800
Email: info@em-storage.co.uk
Web: www.em-storage.co.uk
Owen Pilkington
Building Contractor
Specialists in
extensions &
new build.
General
building,
renovations,
refurbs, barn,
loft & garage conversions,
roofing, tiling, flooring.
With over 20 years’ experience.
Tel: 01335 348 922
Mob: 07803 152 790
Email: owen@pilki41.fsnet.co.uk
G-STAR JOINERY
G-Star Joinery was
established in 2006 by Gary
Morgan who has over 10
years’ experience in the
carpentry/joinery trade.
Gary is not afraid of
any job, big or small:
• Laminate/wooden flooring
• Fitted kitchens
• Skirtings and architraves
• Internal & external doors
• Decking
• Assembly of
flat-pack furniture
• Sheds
• Shop fitting
For a friendly, no
obligation quote call:
07772 003937 or
email: garymorgannorthstar@gmail.com
Chaddesden Furniture
& Carpets
Thinking of buying a carpet?
The last time you had a carpet fitted..
Did the fitters cut your door free of
charge?...We do!
Did the fitters take up your old carpet if
you couldn’t?...We do!
Did they move your furniture without
charge?...We do!
Were they on time, polite and bag up
all waste afterwards?...We do!
Did they do a good job?...We do!
Did they offer to bind any waste into
mats and rugs for you?...We do!
Was the fitting free even on the
cheapest carpets and vinyl?...Ours is!
There are just a few of the reasons why
our family firm has been established for
over 50 years on recommendation only.
PLUS...the best all-in price without
inferior underlay and accessories.
Furniture at below city centre prices
Free home estimate and selection
Free delivery on all items
01332 413689
637 Nottingham Road, Chaddesden,
Derby DE21 6RU
chaddesdenfurnitureandcarpets
@hotmail.com

The RCA 01923 354367
supports Reflect Magazine
22 Spotlight On The Fens
Here To Help 23
A naturally marshy region in eastern England, The Fens
offer a wonderful destination for a day out or getaway.
Covering one million acres and stretching across several
counties (Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and
Suffolk), The Fens are a breathtaking landscape with a
fascinating history. From their beginnings in the Ice Age
to the drainage of the area which took place several
centuries ago, The Fens offer something for all to enjoy.
This ‘natural manscape’, with its rich black soil, wildlifefriendly
waters and abundance of flowers, is particularly
fertile, containing around half of the grade 1 agricultural
land in England. In fact, the area originally consisted
of fresh- or salt-water wetlands, which were artificially
drained and continue to be protected from floods by
drainage banks and pumps. Thanks to this drainage
system, The Fens has become a major arable agricultural
region in Britain for grains and vegetables. In fact, in
2008, there were estimated to be 4,000 farms in the Fens
involved in agriculture and horticulture.
The King of Hearts
Village pub & Carvery
Proper home-cooked food
The real thing - no ping!
Lunchtime meals served Tuesday to Saturday 12pm -2pm,
evening menu available Wednesday to Saturday
6pm - 8:30pm, Wednesday: Carvery lunch & evening,
Friday evening: Hot buffet. Saturday evening: two or
three-course carvery, Sunday: carvery served 12pm - 7pm.
Available Thursday and Friday: haddock, chips and minted mushy peas (battered and freshly
cooked).
The King of Hearts is open to bookings for parties, functions, private dining and coach parties.
If you need further please visit our website www.kingofheartspub.co.uk or if you would like to
make a booking, please call us on 01945 584785 – we look forward to seeing you soon!
School Road, West Walton PE14 7ES
•Buy to let specialists •First-time buyer deals available
•Free advice/home visits •Free pension reviews
•Life cover •Fee-free remortgages
Call now: 01945 773945
www.mortgagespeterborough.com
email: Katrina.plumb@tophouse.biz
Office rear of Fen Vista Isle Road, Outwell,
Wisbech PE14 8TD
A Breath Of Fresh Air
In The Fens
With such a rural and fertile landscape, The Fens just beg
to be explored, whether it’s by cycle, boat, on foot or
horseback. When walking in The Fens, most visitors are
awed by the amazing sense of space and quiet; there’s
no excuse not to slow down and relax. With very few
hills, The Fens are the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon
stroll or cycling day out. The Fen Rivers Way runs for 50
miles between Cambridge and King’s Lynn, whilst the
Peter Scott Walk from Sutton Bridge in Lincolnshire to
King’s Lynn takes you past mud flat and salt marshes,
making it the ideal place to enjoy a spot of birdwatching.
Over 150 bird species can be found across The Fens,
which is often considered a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Waders, wildfowl and raptors are attracted to the salt
marshes and mud flats around The Wash in the summer
and there are two RSPB reserves, Welches Dam, and
Wildfowl & Wetlands Centre at Welney.
Often referred to as the ‘Holy Land of the English’, The
Fens are home to numerous churches and cathedrals,
Peter Barnes
Funeral Director
• 24 hour service
• Personally managed,
independent family
business
• Private chapels
of rest
• Golden charter
prepaid funeral plans
• Full estimates
Tel. 01945 700200
Peter Barnes Funerals
West View, 38 Murrow Bank, Murrow,
Wisbech, Cambs PE13 4H
www.peterbarnesfunerals.co.uk
©VisitBritain / Rod Edwards
most notably in the towns and cities of Ely, Ramsey,
Crowland, Thorney and Peterborough. Other significant
settlements in The Fens (which make a great day out)
include the charming seaside town of King’s Lynn, the
bustling towns of Boston and Wisbech and the city of
Cambridge.
Although it’s generally a low-lying area, there are a few
hills within The Fens, which have historically been called
‘islands’ because they remained dry when the low-lying
fens around them were flooded. The largest ‘island’ is
called is the Isle of Ely, on which the cathedral city of Ely
was built; its highest point is 39 m above mean sea-level.
These miles of inland waterways make the area great
for sailing and yachting. To make this pastime more
accessible, a Fens Waterway Project is also underway to
connect the area to other waterways in the UK.
For more info, please visit www.visitnorfolk.co.uk/
explore-norfolk/the-fens or www.fenswaterways.com
©VisitBritain / Rod Edwards
Feel Fantastic with Hands On
Complementary Therapies
Offering daytime, evening and weekend appointments for busy people, Hands On
Complementary Therapies was founded by experienced masseuse, Emma Thompson who has
an unrivalled understanding of anatomy and physiology. Emma offers sports massage and
pregnancy massage which will provide relief from those aches and pains and leave you feeling
refreshed and energised.
With a home-based treatment studio in Castle Gresley in Swadlincote, Emma offers tailor made
massages specific to your needs. She explained: “I offer an initial consultation for a fee of £30, to
assess you and your issues, be they from training for a competition or just from years of slouching at
your desk. Each session after the consultation, which can either be at my home or yours, is £25 and
lasts for one hour. Treatments can be booked in blocks – if you book five sessions at once, you only
pay for four. I also offer 30-minutes sessions. Pregnancy massages can only be performed on ladies
who are 13-plus weeks into their pregnancy.”
Providing a full package and a personalised service, tailored to your specific requirements,
Emma brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to each treatment. She said: “Many people
think of sports massage as a painful experience but it should never hurt. It should feel uncomfortable
because you are sometimes working out knots which have formed over many months, sometimes
even years, but it should never be painful. Sports massage isn’t just for athletes, anyone can benefit,
even those who spend their days at a desk – bad posture is the main cause of many of our aches
and pains and a sports massage, along with my consultation assessment, can help alleviate the
symptoms of bad posture and over time, even readjust your posture.”
As well as sports and pregnancy massage, Emma also offers a mediation service, which can be
beneficial during family disputes. She said: “I provide a friendly, listening ear and a good cuppa!”
For more information, please call Emma on 07766 143213 or email emma_th@sky.com
Help is on Hand
From time to time we all need a little help, but when it comes to
specialist services, it can be hard to know where to turn, particularly if
you’re looking for something that isn’t available on the High Street.
With hectic lives and busy schedules, we can all feel a little overwhelmed and stressed
at times. The use of complementary therapies has increased steadily since the
early 1990s. The majority of people who turn to these methods use them alongside
mainstream, or conventional, medicines to increase their chances of a positive
outcome. This is where the term originated; using non-conventional treatments to
‘complement’ conventional medicines prescribed by a doctor.
Many people utilise mainstream medicine for diagnosis and basic information, while
turning to complementary therapies to enhance their health and chances of recovery.
However, many developing nations have used ‘alternative’ medicines for centuries
as their access to essential medicines is limited by poverty and lack of resources. In
Africa, up to 80% of the population use this traditional medicine for primary health
care.
Many of us take for granted being able to eat what we want, when we want, but for
those with an allergy or intolerance, food can become a danger zone. Coeliac disease
is an autoimmune disease and despite generally being considered rare, actually affects
around one in 100 people in the UK, according to statistics from Coeliac UK. It causes
an immune reaction, triggered by gluten, and results in the immune system attacking
the body’s own tissue and causing damage to the gut. The symptoms of Coeliac
disease can affect sufferers differently, and present themselves as mild or severe, but
possible symptoms include bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, excessive
wind, heartburn, indigestion and constipation. Coeliac disease is still largely underdiagnosed,
with the average diagnosis taking up to 13 years, but new sufferers are
most likely to be between 40 and 60-years-old.
With an increased awareness of the chemical preservatives and additives found
in most processed foods, more and more people are going back to nature and
choosing organic produce. As organic food contains fewer chemicals, pesticides
and preservatives than processed foods, the farming encourages and maintains the
natural landscape and wildlife of the area, as well as emitting fewer chemicals into
the atmosphere. Organic fruit and vegetables tend to grow more slowly and have
lower water content, which is one suggestion for the enhanced flavours many people
experience.
The UK’s largest annual gathering of people living with allergies and
intolerances, The Allergy & Free From Show, which takes place this July
at Olympia in London, is the best place to find solutions for a free-from
life. With over 150 exhibitors lining the aisles with drink, cosmetics,
skin products, allergy solutions and much more, as well as a diverse
collection of seminars from the experts, The Allergy & Free From Show
2013 promises to be bigger and better than ever, For more info, or
tickets, please visit www.allergyshow.co.uk
The Beautiful Belfry -
A Boutique Bolthole in the Blackdowns
The Belfry AT YARCOMBE
Restaurant and Rooms
Set within an historic Grade II Listed old school with
stone mullioned & leaded stained glass windows, fabulous
individually designed décor and L’Occitane bathroom
products.
We just ask diners to choose 24 hours in advance from the monthly menu and stating which choices
are to be gluten-free, Sarah-Jane who specialises in gluten-free dining, cooks for your GF needs
individually and makes adjustments to the dishes as required.
Just about everything on the menu can be made GF for you - including a Twice Baked Goat’s Cheese
Soufle and a Flaming Baked Tiramisu Alaska.
Just off the A303 & close to the dramatic Jurassic Coast and Antiques Galore in Honiton.
Near Honiton, East Devon EX14 9BD | Tel: 01404 861234
Email: stay@thebelfryatyarcombe.co.uk | Web: www.thebelfryatyarcombe.co.uk

24
Take A Step Back In Time
Certificate of Recognition for Pride Of Britain
Situated in the heart of Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham Back to Backs is a
National Trust property that first opened its doors to visitors in July 2004 and has
continued to go from strength to strength. With the opportunity to take a step back
in time, Birmingham Back to Backs is the last surviving court of back to back houses,
houses built literally back-to-back around a communal courtyard, in the whole of the
West Midlands.
On a fascinating guided tour, visitors can discover the lives of some of the former
residents who crammed into these small houses to live and work, as well as
discovering how the lives of these residents shaped the city that Birmingham is today.
These four properties give visitors a glimpse of life in Birmingham during four periods
of time: the 1840s, 1870s, 1930s and 1970s.
Elaine outside the sweet shop
Manager, Simon Hall, told Reflect: “As a living museum,
Back to Backs allows visitors to experience the sights,
sounds and smells of life in 19th and 20th Century
Birmingham. Our four properties, dedicated to four
different periods, enable visitors to discover the lives of
some of the former residents who crammed into these
small houses to live and work; there were often whole
families, with six children or more, living in just three
rooms. All the properties reflect the period in which
they’re set, so some have no electricity or running water
and are heated solely by coal fire. The properties are a
real trip back in time.”
Back to Backs is open Tuesday, Wednesday and
Thursday afternoons from 1pm during school term
time and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am
until 5pm, except in January when the property is
closed. Booking a guided tour is highly recommended,
especially during busy periods. Bookings can be made
by calling 0121 6667671.
Standard admission: £6.30 for adults, £3.20 for
children and £14.80 for a family (two adults and up
to three children). Gift Aid admission, which includes
a 10% donation: £6.95 for adults, £3.60 for children
and £16.30 for a family ticket.
Reflect Editor, Elaine Ellis, recently visited Birmingham
Back to Backs for a guided tour; she said: “In the midst
of a busy Birmingham city lies a hidden gem known as
Birmingham Back to Backs, owned by the National Trust.
Our tour began outside an old-fashioned sweet shop,
which was already a winner. Our tour guide, Paul Gardner
started by telling us about the history of Birmingham, as
well as the history of Back to Backs, ideal if you’re not
from the Birmingham area.
“Back to Backs is teeming with history; how people
worked, lived and loved across the eras. Standing in the
third floor bedroom of one of the houses, looking over
a beautiful courtyard, I could almost hear the children
playing, mothers cleaning and the general everyday
goings-on that define the Victorian era.
“The rooms in the four properties that make up
Birmingham Back to Backs are all original apart from the
staircases, which, Paul explained, have been replaced due
to the sheer amount of traffic the homes have seen since
they were first built. The original stairs would have been
dangerous. Each property offers an insight to Victorian
life: the dining table is laden with cutlery and crockery, as
if awaiting visitors to pop in for a bowl of hot stew and
warm, freshly baked bread.
“Back to Backs offers an educational insight into a very
important part of our history and heritage; it’s well worth
a visit and my husband and I will definitely be returning.”
For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.
org.uk/main/w-birmingham_backtobacks