From Farm to Food Bank

This is Kathy, taking a break on a recent cycle-ride

Bassetlaw Food Bank Needs a Manager

Bassetlaw Food Bank needs a manager to co-ordinate the daily running of the operation.  Local residents need to know where to turn for support.  A bright, forward-thinking, committed and energetic person is needed to make this happen.  Perhaps you know the perfect person for this role… or could it be you?  For further details on this vacancy click on the link here https://www.bassetlawfoodbank.org/food-bank-manager-position/. I only know about this job because my friend Kathy, who is a trustee of the Bassetlaw Food Bank, told me all about it. It would help if you knew a bit about Kathy…

Here’s Kathy just about to get on her bike and ride
Here’s Kathy just about to get on her bike to begin an epic ride

A kindred spirit

Most people know that I am originally a townie. Since moving from the city into the beautiful North Nottinghamshire countryside  I have made many new friends and met some remarkable women.  Some of whom you may already have been introduced to in my blog.  https://savourthemoment.co/wp-admin/edit.php?category_name=a-chat-with Now it is the turn of Kathy Cowbrough – another remarkable lady – and a kindred spirit!  Our backgrounds could not be more different. And she knows everything there is to know about food – and the Bassetlaw Food Bank.

Kathy just about to set off on a cross-country ski
Kathy about to set off cross-country skiing

Originating from Canada

Kathy is a Canadian now living in North Notts and is passionate about the importance and the promotion of healthy eating and physical activity.  Kathy had the opportunity to work as a home economics teacher in Zambia and Botswana for 5 years. Whilst the teaching was rewarding, Kathy realised she learned a great deal about real poverty… but more of that later.  

Life on the farm

Life for Kathy started on a farm in Southern Ontario.  It was a mixed farm – chickens, sheep, pigs, cattle, horses, a dog and a range of crops – hay, wheat, oats, corn and a veg plot!  There were also maple trees in the ‘bush’ on their land.  Her dad would tap the trees for the syrup every spring.  Sounds idyllic but then it was impossible to go on holiday and for a small child that’s tough… although it had its compensations.

At the age of 10 Kathy was driving tractors even though she could barely reach the pedals. It wasn’t until much later that Kathy realised how lucky she was.  Other children her own age must have envied her freedom.  In rural communities there were ‘4H Clubs’ where children could learn life-skills like gardening, cooking, sewing, animal-husbandry and of course the opportunity to meet other farm children.

It’s a bit pixilated but this is Kathy doing a sky dive in tandem
Daredevil Kathy doing a tandem skydive

Schooldays

School was something else!  A two mile walk to a ‘one room school’ which had one teacher that taught all eight grades.  A couple of good things were to come out of this.  One: it was necessary to learn at an early age how to work on your own – and two: there was a dance – a barn dance, or ceilidh as we know them – every month!  High school was a different matter – different subjects and different teachers – a different world. 

Kathy developed her interest in food and nutrition and sewing at high school.  This led to the study of Home Economics at University.  After graduation she found a job as a County Home Economist – which supported the local ‘4H Clubs’ and ‘Women’s Institutes’. This gave her the confidence she needed to take a very bold step.

Volunteering overseas

After two years Kathy volunteered to be a Home Economics teacher overseas.  A big adventure when she spent two years in a remote area of Zambia where she taught at a girls boarding school.    During the school holidays she seized the opportunity to travel – hitchhiking to Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda – can you imagine?!  After two years, she returned to Canada.  But, the shock of the return to a country of plenty was hard to take and so she went back to Africa – this time to Botswana where she stayed for three years.  To follow a British syllabus in Botswana was not without difficulty – make roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, really?  When the local food was mainly nshima (a thick porridge-like substance) – no real chance of a proper Sunday roast!

Kathy on a workingholiday in Laos
On a working holiday in Laos where Kathy was able to help with building simple kitchens for girls schools

A different view

Her challenge on the return to Canada was to highlight the unfairness of the prices paid for many foods grown in developing countries.  Armed with what she had learned on her travels, Kathy decided to take a masters in Public Health Nutrition through a bursary from the government of Nova Scotia which led to her becoming the Public Health Nutritionist in Western Nova Scotia.  Kathy says that this was a fun and rewarding time in a beautiful part of Canada that she had never previously visited. 

The Scottish connection

During her time in Botswana a young Scotsman managed to persuade her to go on a cycling holiday in Scotland.  This, and the fact that Kathy’s grandfather was born in Scotland, allowed her to work in the UK.  Dear reader, she married him!

And then there were four!

Jump forward a few years and Kathy is still here in the UK today.  However she now has 36 year old twins – a boy and a girl… and a granddaughter and another one on the way!  And as I can testify, it is hard to leave one’s family, even for a short time.  It is important to be close by and on hand – to watch them and their families grow, and to help out when needed.  A return to Canada for anything other than a holiday could not realistically be considered.

Kathy is at the summit of a monumental walk with a group of fellow walkers
Here is Kathy second from the left, she made it to the summit with a group of fellow walkers

Do you have a plan?

Kathy says that jobs in Scotland seemed to come easily.  Probably because she is very likeable and very easy to say ‘yes’ to! She asked the Health Education Board for Scotland direct if they had a plan for health and nutrition in Scotland.  They did not!  This led to jobs as a Public Health Nutritionist in Stirling, and then Edinburgh and Health Promotion officer in Glasgow as well as lecturer at Glasgow Caledonian University.  A neighbour offered to look after the twins whilst she worked part time… she took up that offer and to this day they are still good friends.

Why England?

So why move to England?  It’s simple really, Kathy’s husband Graeme was offered a job that he just could not refuse and she too was fortunate to find good jobs in England.  The most rewarding of which were in Sure Start Children’s Centres in Mansfield and Langold. At the same time she set up her own business as a freelance dietician.  

Healthy eating

Kathy’s freelance work included: needs assessment and programme planning; nutrition education; training of health professionals and lay personnel; resource development; writing for the press and speaking at events. Her passion is and always has been the importance of healthy eating and physical activity to prevent long-term health problems. 

A colourful, appliqued banner declaring ‘Fair Trade Makes a Difference’
A colourful, appliqued banner declaring ‘Fair Trade Makes a Difference’

Fairtrade

Her work-schedule allowed her to get involved with some other passions too – such as: Fairtrade.  Sadly, Fairtrade in Bassetlaw, a Fairtrade district since 2009 has struggled to survive.  Many committee members had worked long and hard and have now withdrawn.  Kathy chaired Fairtrade for Bassetlaw for five years and fought to keep it alive.  But new volunteers were needed to make it work and to encourage businesses, schools and churches, to support Fairtrade and organise events to promote Fairtrade – but this was not to be.  

So many other things to do

However, so many other activities and projects fill Kathy’s life.  She enjoys Morris Dancing with the local Rattlejag dance troop; cycling distances of between 20 and 30 miles at least once a week – as well as cycling as an alternative form of transport for local trips; singing with the Retford Community Choir; Pilates; is a trustee for the Bassetlaw Food Bank; enjoys cooking particularly homegrown fare and baking bread and she has – as you might expect if you knew her – been sewing scrubs and masks for PPE during the Coronavirus Crisis.  It would not surprise you to know that she and Graeme do not have a TV – because they just do not have the time!

Kathy dressed in vibrant colours in her role as a Morris Dancer
Kathy wearing the vibrant colours of the Rattlejag Morris Troup

Most importantly, people rely on Food Banks…

Kathy’s enthusiasm for life is infectious and her willingness to get her sleeves rolled up and help out cannot be ignored.  As You now know, she is a trustee for the Bassetlaw Foodbank.  They more than most have struggled during the pandemic and this is a great concern to her.  Obviously she knows and understands the importance of health and nutrition, particularly to the vulnerable: the elderly, young families, single parents and the homeless.  These are the people who rely on Foodbanks – a sad indictment of our times.  Supplies are desperately needed.  As we emerge from lockdown, we can expect an upsurge in demand.  Bassetlaw Foodbank needs to be ready and fully stocked.  If you can help with anything at all, please get in touch. All the contact details can be found on their website https://www.bassetlawfoodbank.org/

Bassetlaw Food Bank

Bassetlaw Food Bank is a non-profit, charitable organisation which distributes emergency food parcels to people in need in Bassetlaw.  It is a local independent food bank which receives donations from residents and businesses across Bassetlaw is now working as part of the Bassetlaw Community Emergency Food Distribution Hub Team.  It works in partnership with Bassetlaw District Council and Bassetlaw Community Voluntary Service and offers assistance to those in need across the Bassetlaw district.  It has distribution centres in both Retford and Worksop.  Kathy tells me that both centres are over-stretched and need more volunteers – as well as donations.  The crisis has increased the need and consequently the stress on the two hubs.

What makes her tick?

I asked Kathy what it is that motivates her. She said quite a lot… but in essence these are her thoughts:

  • Was there any way that she could repay the privileges and opportunities that she had been given by giving opportunities to other people? 
  • Indirectly facilitating people-oriented activities 
  • The importance of healthy eating and activity
  • And above everything else… we need to be aware of the impact that our purchase choices have on others and also be aware of the support that our purchases choices can give to others

Simple really

A group of seven people having fun at a Fair Trade event
Kathy and friends at a local Fair Trade event

Talking about ‘Carers Education’ with Gill Hinton

A black and white image of Gill Hinton, founder of Carers’ Education

Help and support for carers has never been easy to access… that is until Gill Hinton founded ‘Carers’ Education’.  ‘Carers’ Education’ is a not-for-profit company that offers fully-funded, free training to anyone who works with clients in their own homes.

Back in the good old days

Looking back over the last 60-odd years, Gill and I would probably agree that we were both what might have been termed ‘bright girls’.  We didn’t know each other back then. Having only recently met, we find that we do have a lot in common.  Both of us come from a working-class background and of course, we’re girls! Back then, in the 1950s and 1960s, girls were not encouraged to follow an academic route when their male counterparts were.  And of course ‘Equal Pay’ was still a long way off, not being introduced until the late 70s… an absolute age away.  

A very clever lady

I met Gill at the Old Police Station in Retford https://www.kingsparkhotel.co.uk We shared a pot of tea andchatted for over an hour. It was nowhere near long enough to fully understand the achievements of this unassuming, unpretentious, clever lady.

Hard work pays off

Gill told me that she had worked as a nurse in the NHS for thirty years at Bassetlaw Hospital.  She finally ended her career with the NHS as the ‘Education Lead for Nursing’ after a very long climb. During this time she introduced and developed the ‘Clinical Skills Training Department’ for an NHS Trust.

A black and white image of Gill Hinton, founder of Carers’ Education
Gill Hinton today, founder of Carers’ Education

A passion for learning

Her passion for education grew as she worked with medical students.  This bright girl who left school at 16 and had a baby at 17 went on to complete a Masters degree in Medical Education at Nottingham University in 2008. At the same time, she gained a rare distinction… quite an achievement! And in 2013 she was part of a team that won a Nursing Times award for training.

Two images of Gill Hinton holding Nursing Times Awards in 2013
Gill Hinton, part of the team that won the Nursing Times Award for Training in 2013

Success

Research for her Masters involved the development and evaluation of an induction programme into the NHS, for doctors who had qualified overseas. The programme was a great success and the NHS Trust found itself with a waiting list of up to six months just to get a place on this course.

A growing client list

Since retiring, Gill has worked with a number of individual clients. She developed a range of bespoke courses for carers and registered professionals.  Her growing client list includes the local Community Care Group, Nottinghamshire County Council, Mencap, Sheffield University and the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield.

First-hand experience

With a history of work in the public health sector of over 30 years, Gill recognised the challenges faced on a daily basis by carers.  She witnessed the difficulties confronting the care industry when her daughter became seriously ill and sadly died.  Gill experienced first-hand that it is a very difficult role to fulfil and also that good quality training and education support is very hard to find.

It’s never too late

Gill founded her own company ‘Carers’ Education’ when she retired in 2019.  She felt the need to address the problem of ‘lack of proper training’. She wants to begin with the provision of fully-funded, appropriate instruction – to help carers, their clients and ultimately the care sector as a whole – free of charge!  Work books are freely available from skillsforhealth.org for nurses to complete assessments.  Gill has devised a programme for delivery to carers, which consists of 2 full days and 5 half days.

Free training

‘Carers’ Education’ provides access to free training courses to help with basic care, life-support training and first-aid certificate training.  Carers who complete the fully-funded programme are then equipped to support their clients with confidence and competence. New and also prospective carers, are given the opportunity to acquire new skills to make them stronger, better-informed and safer carers.  Gill said: ‘Our training builds confidence and competence in the carers with whom we work so that they feel more capable to deliver quality care to their clients.  As confidence grows a positive attitude develops which is ultimately passed on to the client.’

Gill is currently waiting to hear if her application for funding from the Big Lottery to support the work she does, has been successful. Keep your fingers crossed for her!

To find out more about giving carers the tools to deliver higher standards of support to their clients or relatives visit carerseducation.co.uk

Merry Christmas from Savour the Moment!

Festive wreath made from featherS and lit with mixture LED lights

Rural Christmas Crafts

Rural life in North Nottinghamshire has provided us with many opportunities. I think we have embraced them all. Not least our latest and most productive hobby: sausage-making!

We have been given quantities of game birds from local shoots and so it has become necessary to be inventive. Roast pheasant, roast partridge, game casserole, pheasant bolognese…

Recipes coming soon

I can share the recipes and methods with you in the New Year, perhaps you would like to see them?

A very merry Christmas

In the meantime here is a picture of our Christmas wreath. Created from feathers and a biodegradable OASIS https://www.oasisfloral.co.uk/ base. It hangs on my front door. A seasonal image to wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Festive wreath made from feathers and lit with miniature LED lights
Festive wreath made from feathers

https://savourthemoment.co/wp-admin/post.php?post=1183&action=edit

Christmas Tree Festival

A variety of Christmas Trees all decorated and lit

St Peter’s Church, Clayworth, Nottinghamshire –  first ever  Christmas tree festival!

Christmas tree festivals are community events that bring people and local organisations together. Individuals and groups supply and decorate a Christmas tree.  This particular Christmas tree festival is St Peter’s first ever!  There are currently fifteen trees in this inaugural display, all lit, decorated and on show collectively. But for a limited time only – from now until Saturday 21st December.  It is not here for long and St Peter’s in Clayworth, North Nottinghamshire will be open every day until then from 10.00am until 4.00pm.

A variety of Christmas Trees all decorated and lit
All kinds of trees, decorated and lit in St Peter’s Church, Clayworth North Nottinghamshire

Local organisations get involved

A couple of local organisations have provided a themed tree to reflect their business, such as the popular local bar and restaurant ‘the Blacksmith’s Arms’ https://www.blacksmithsclayworth.com/. Then there’s the ‘go to’ website for all events, things to do and what’s on information for the North Nottinghamshire area https://www.innorthnotts.co.uk/ 

The glow from the lights of two Christmas trees
Find out what’s happening in North Nottinghamshire from this pretty tree

An opportunity to visit the Traquair Murals

So, if you missed the ‘big one’ in town, now is your chance to savour flavour of this individual display. Enjoy this smaller but cosier exhibition in a local, historic, village church.  Take advantage of this opportunity to see the ‘Traquair Murals’ as St Peter’s is home to the largest works of art in the East of England. They are are well worth a visit in themselves.  You can read all about them here: https://savourthemoment.co/country-life/the-traquair-murals-the-what-murals/ 

Edible tree decorations to take away ‘Treats and Treasures’

A couple of the trees are decorated with edible treats.  Help yourself to one or two – take some home or pass them around.  This is a free event but there are opportunities to leave donations.  There is a safe in the wall near the door for donations and also one or two collection boxes near the trees.  Refreshments are available too.

A Christmas tree decorated with edible treats, chocolate coins and peppermint candy canes
Treats and treasure tree – help yourself to chocolate coins or peppermint canes

Heartwarming and unforgettable

Every Christmas tree festival is unique and has its own charm.  St Peter’s would welcome your visit. It is a heart-warming and unforgettable sight especially when the trees are lit and it’s dark outside.

A uniquely hand-crafted Christmas tree
A uniquely hand-crafted Christmas tree

Share the joy

In recent years Christmas tree festivals have become increasingly popular as a way of bringing communities together. They provide the opportunity to raise money for the church or local charities.  Most importantly they share the joy of the Christmas message and add a little extra sparkle to the Christmas festivities. 

Blue and white Christmas trees
A blue and white theme

Don’t miss this chance to visit, time is running out – it will all be over on the evening of Saturday 21st December.

Probably the best little book shop in the entire world

The Barrister’s wig and gown displayed in the corner of the new floor ‘Murder and the Barrister’

The Barrister’s Book Chamber

I recently had the very good fortune to be invited to a bloggers event at the Barrister’s Book Chamber https://barristersbookchamber.com/ in Retford, North Notts. The book shop has opened a new department ‘Murder and the Barrister’ on the top floor of the listed, Georgian building that it occupies.

An image of books wrapped up in brown paper and string
Books wrapped in brown paper and string – a nice detail

The Barrister in Wonderland

This is the latest, most exciting innovation for the Book Chamber. It follows hot on the heels of the ‘Barrister in Wonderland’ https://savourthemoment.co/literature/the-barrister-in-wonderland-a-childrens-book-shop-with-a-difference/. It is an absolutely delightful children’s book shop and a ‘must visit’ – no matter what your age!

The striking shop from of the new book shop in town, black and gold with an Alice in Wonderland tea party themed window display
The Barrister in Wonderland, a children’s books shop with a difference

Cluedo

The Barrister’s Book Chamber put on a ‘movie night’ for us bloggers in their fiction room. Comfy chairs, bean bags, nibbles, popcorn and drinks and we were set for the film. ‘Clue’ is a 1985 drama/mystery/comedy based on the board game ‘Cluedo’ and was perfect for the occasion.

Wine, popcorn and nibbles and the show begins
Wine, popcorn and nibbles and the show begins

The tour begins

With the film over we were given a tour of the upper rooms. Unique decor of scarlet blood splats against the signature ‘Barrister’s blue’ runs throughout and up the dog-leg staircase. There are street names on the walls of where the Ripper’s victims were found, which are a conversation piece in themselves.

Blood splats and street names related to Jack the Tipper
Blood splats and street names relating to Jack the Ripper
A selection of Jack the Ripper related books
A selection of Jack the Ripper related books in the Barrister’s room

Agatha Christie… of course!

A little nook that has a Georgian window, is currently home to ‘Agatha Christie’. This little area will become home to other famous crime writers over time.

A little nook that is currently the Agatha Christie room
A little nook that is currently the Agatha Christie room

Crime Fiction

The crime fiction room is completely filled with every kind of crime fiction you can imagine. Generally the price rule throughout the shop is paperbacks £2 and hardbacks £3 – which is a steal. If there is a particular book that you are after, they will do their best to get it for you, although it might cost a bit more. As you might expect, so do special editions and some vintage books.

This image is of the Crime Fiction Room. A chandelier grandly illuminating the central criminal display
This image is of the Crime Fiction Room. A chandelier grandly illuminates the central ‘criminal’ display

An all-purpose Workshop Room

Moving on and we are in the ‘Workshop Room’ or meeting room. Tastefully kitted out with tables and chairs to make a welcoming space. The potential uses of this area are endless. It can be a quiet area for yoga, meditation, networking, crafting or IT workshops…

The very useful ‘Workshop Room’
…and a very useful ‘Workshop Room’

A stenotype too!

Finally on the top floor is the Barrister’s room which is small and quirky. It holds a collection of Jack the Ripper books amongst other things. The Barrister’s robe, wig and brief bags are on display in here too. A real-life stenotype is in here too! (Only ever seen in period courtroom dramas before.) And if you are lucky enough and Dave is around, you may get to hear all sorts of fascinating anecdotes and stories which bring this room to life. Dave is the man who physically brought Angela’s dream of the Book Chamber to life. They are a very talented team.

The Barrister’s wig and gown displayed in the corner of the new floor ‘Murder and the Barrister’
The Barrister’s wig and gown displayed in the corner of the new floor ‘Murder and the Barrister’
A vintage stenotype
Delighted to see this vintage stenotype on display

All this and cake too

You don’t have to be on the look out for a book to visit this shop either. A lovely, comfy little tea room is at the back of the ground floor. Incredible homemade cakes are created by Laura, another member of the team, which she brings in fresh every day. Also in here are vinyl records, as well as tea and coffee of course!

A very cosy tea room with a varied selection of homemade cakes and a selection of teas and coffees
The cosy tea room – homemade cakes and a selection of teas and coffee

You never know what you might find in this Aladdin’s cave

Remember those colour-coded Penguin books from the 1930s and 40s? Well there are quite a few of the green ‘murderous’ ones on display… but don’t tell everyone!

The unmistakable, vintage, green and white Penguin crime books
The unmistakable, vintage, green and white Penguin crime books

Extremely innovative

Keep your eye on the Barrister’s Book Chamber, there is always something new happening there. I wonder what’s in store next for this clever little shop?

The Cottage Vegan

Apple crumble cake
A headshot of Rachael Care
Rachael Care – the face behind The Cottage Vegan

A cup of tea and a chat with Rachael Care – The Cottage Vegan

Although we live in the same, small North Notts village, I had never met Rachael – until the village plant sale at the Clayworth Memorial Hall.  A few of us had taken homemade cakes to sell to help boost the proceeds.  Rachael had made a selection of vegan muffins which looked eye-poppingly gorgeous.

Blueberry and lemon Chelsea buns drizzled with glace icing
Sticky blueberry and lemon Chelsea buns drizzled with glace icing

A gap in the market for vegan food locally

She and I chatted and it seemed that she was on the verge of starting up her own business ‘The Cottage Vegan’.  Having done some research locally she discovered that there is a gap in the market for home-prepared, vegan food.  After the plant sale we linked up on Facebook.

Apple crumble cake
Apple crumble cake – looks stunning when baked in a bundt tin

Such glorious cakes

The pictures she was posting of her glorious cakes gave me the idea that someone I know might appreciate one of her creations.  I messaged Rachael and within minutes she responded saying that she was baking at that moment and would have a carrot cake ready for me that very afternoon.  Now that is service!  The cake went down a treat, it tasted divine and it didn’t break the bank!

A very col,our full Hummingbird cake decorated with edible fresh flowers
Hummingbird cake, decorated with edible fresh flowers

Cup of tea and a chat

I asked Rachael if she fancied a chat over a cup of tea and she kindly invited me to her cottage.  And it is is exactly as you would imagine – a typical English cottage in a typical English village!  She has over a hundred cookery books and her kitchen is all neatly laid out ready for the next baking session.  It seems that ‘The Cottage Vegan’ (very aptly named) went ‘live’ on 1st July.  One month in and business is already brisk.  Simple word-of-mouth alongside social media and the orders are rolling in.

All set for afternoon tea with fresh flowers a cup of tea and an apple cram horn
Afternoon tea with apple cream corn

We made a connection

She and I seemed to connect, having much in common: a love of cookery, making things, creativity and ‘flavour’!  I was bowled over by her determination and passion and asked her how she had arrived at this point in her life – on the cusp of a new business.  It seems that she has taken a long and winding route to where she is now. 

Buckwheat pastry with cheese, onion, tomatoes and homemade mango chutney
Buckwheat pastry patties with cheese, onion, tomatoes and homemade mango chutney

Back to school

Rachael has worked with various companies in administration and also at one point as a carer.  But she had always harboured the desire to learn to cook, although she could already cook she wanted to learn to do it professionally.  She was encouraged to follow her dream by her husband so gave up her job and started a vocational college course https://www.don.ac.uk/. 

If you don’t ask you don’t get

With a need to keep some money coming in and also to get a foot into the catering industry, she took a job as a chamber maid at a local hotel with a fine dining restaurant attached http://www.mountpleasant.co.uk/ . One thing led to another and she dared to ask the Head Chef if he would give her a job. To her surprise he said ‘yes’! and he continued to be her mentor and oversee her progress… and her rise to pastry chef.

Satay skewers and rainbow salad
Satay skewers with rainbow salad

Home is where the heart is

Something that has always been on her mind is, like me, she loves to be at home.  All those endless days spent staring out of someone else’s window with a longing just to be at home.  Also like me, she enjoys her own company.  All this points to where she is, developing her own business from where she loves more than anywhere else to be… her own kitchen.

Business is booming

Market research was to supply her husband’s colleagues with her first bakes, actively encouraging their feedback – and ultimately their orders, which began to gather momentum.  She now finds herself very busy.  Because she is flexible and open to suggestions she is constantly adding new lines and experimenting with flavours.  She will even prepare a week’s worth of readymade vegan meals to people who don’t have the time to shop and cook.  It’s a service that is clearly much appreciated.

Get in touch with Rachael at the Cottage Vegan

Have a look at The Cottage Vegan’s Facebook page and if there’s anything thing there that tempts you (believe me there will be whether you are vegan or not!) send her a message. https://m.facebook.com/thecottagevegan/ 

Variety is the spice of life

So, it’s not just cakes… it’s Jamaican patties, vegan lasagne, bean and vegetable casseroles, flatbreads, vegan burgers, the most amazing gâteux, muffins and cakes – and probably anything else you might ask of her.  All her bakes and makes are made to order with top-quality, local produce… and lots of love.

An Afternoon With Elaine Searston – Make Up Artist

Make Up Artist

I won a prize in a raffle held at Butterflies Beauty Retreat https://www.butterfliesbeautyretreat.co.uk/.  The prize was a make up lesson.  I had no idea what to expect.  It turned into the most amazing afternoon with Elaine Searston – Make Up Artist https://en-gb.facebook.com/pg/elainesearstonmua/posts/  It was just, well… wow!

Make up station and mirror
Elaine’s work station

Watching her work

I have always had an interest in make up and being a girl of the 60s I wore it a lot!  Socket lines, white lipstick, eyeliner – you name it!  I so wish that I could create the look I want without looking like ‘mutton dressed as lamb – or worse… a clown!’  The moment I met Elaine I knew she had the skills for the job.   So, with a hand-mirror I watched as she worked her magic.

The corner of Elaine’s studio
An elegant chair sits in the corner of Elaine’s studio

Her very own make up studio

Elaine has her own make up studio at her house near Worksop, North Nottinghamshire.  She welcomed me into her Aladdin’s cave of cosmetics, brushes and mirrors.  It was a jaw-dropping moment – taking a step into another world.  I sat in her client’s chair and as she had asked me to take the make up I use along with me, we looked at each item and talked about how I used it.  I explained that I had got to the age where I felt almost invisible.  Gone are the days when I might turn heads.  I told her that I struggled with eye make up because of my hooded eyelids.  She convinced me that this should not be a problem.

Client chair and framed inspirational quote on the wall
Elaine’s client chair and instructions to ‘eat diamonds for breakfast and sparkle all day!’

Stay ahead of the game

As she got to work, we chatted and she told me that there were tricks that could be used to shape the face and camouflage problem areas.  It soon became clear that Elaine knows what she’s talking about and is also very good at what she does.  She has her favourite products too and although she doesn’t sell cosmetics she will happily recommend – one of her favourite brands is Charlotte Tilbury https://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk .  Elaine likes to keep up to date with what’s happening in the industry and visits the trade shows and exhibitions, picking up information and learning about new products in the process. And of course sharing hints and tips with other make up artists along the way.

Charlotte Tilbury display stand
Elaine’s favourite: Charlotte Tilbury

A face map

She explained everything that she did and why she was doing it.  She told me about every brush and why she used it and not only that but she wrote everything down onto a face map for me.  I could take this away with me to follow and (to try) to recreate my new look for myself.  This would be a challenge and it will take practice but I will certainly give it a go.

Face map and Elaine’s make up notes
A face map with Elaine’s notes

The make up bug

Some years ago she worked on the beauty counter at Boots and I think that’s where she originally got the ‘make up bug’.  One thing led to another and before she knew it she was a fully qualified Make Up Artist with a regular gig at the West Retford Best Western Hotel https://www.westretfordhotel.co.uk/.  However, her workload has increased to the point where she can no longer maintain the time spent there.  I get the feeling that she will always have a soft spot for West Retford and their door will always be open to her.  She also lectures on the subject at Retford College and regularly lets students accompany her to appointments for the experience.

A pot of makeup brushes
Just a few of Elaine’s make up brushes
A ‘how to sculpt and contour with make up’ image
How to sculpt and contour with make up, clearly explained

A growing portfolio of delighted brides

She has tended to many nervous brides and bridesmaids on their big days, which is a huge responsibility.  But Elaine is clearly very experienced and passionate about what she does.  And she is very good at putting her clients immediately at their ease, making every one of them instagrammable.

Wallet/roll of make up brushes
Even more make up brushes

Confidence is the key

Despite all the creams, shadows, lipsticks and pencils Elaine firmly believes that the most important element of make up is ‘confidence’ which comes from within  And she is right too but having Elaine to do your make up for you first would give you a head start in that department. She is a little miracle worker!  I left her studio feeling like a million dollars.

Selfie - million dollar feeling
That million dollar feeling!
A selfie image of Elaine Searston MAke Up Artist and Sharon Richardson
Elaine Searston Make Up Artist and me

A session with Elaine costs £40 and gift vouchers are available

An afternoon with Elaine Searston Make Up Artist

Community Spring Clean with Liam Wildish

So many bags of litter!

Liam’s Community Spring Clean

Liam Wildish has recently become a local hero and celebrity with his community-spirited, clean-up of the area.  He runs his own ‘Clean Scene’ window cleaning business and he took it upon himself to clean the odd road sign or two https://www.cleanyx.com/GB/East-Retford/216885679007526/Clean-Scene-Window-Cleaning.  This snowballed and he was soon cleaning nearly all the road signs that were safely accessible for him – in his spare time and at his own expense.  His work was noticed and he found himself in the local paper and then… before he knew it… on BBC Television’s  ‘The One Show’ being interviewed by Matt Baker and Alex Jones. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/  And he went viral too!

Liam Wildish recruits a team of local volunteers for some community action
21 year old Liam Wildish, the organiser of the ‘Big Retford Town Clean-up’

 

 

 

Litter-picking grabbers at the ready

His Facebook following soon grew and he used his newfound celebrity to launch his ‘Clean Up Retford Campaign’.   He jumped through all the hoops to organise a ‘Sunday Morning Clean Up’ and invited all those who could make it, to join him.  Having checked with the local council, he read out the ‘dos and donts’ and made everyone aware of the  ‘risks involved’ and then handed out hi-vis vests and litter-picking-grabbers!

Hi-vis vests, rubbish bags and litter-grabbers are handed out to the team at the start.
Hi-vis vests, rubbish bags and litter-grabbers are handed out to the team

A good crowd for a first community event

I estimate that approximately 20 people turned up, including some members of the local youth club, a dad with a baby strapped to his chest and even a few people from outside the area.

The team gets organised
Liam’s team gets organised with hi-vis vests, bags and grabbers

Many, many, many, cigarette butts

The litter pickers sorted themselves into small groups and broke off in different directions.   We were to return to the start-point in two hours.  Fortunately the day was fine and warm and friendly banter made the two hours fly by.  Many, many, many cigarette butts and at least twenty full bags of rubbish later, Liam’s first community action was complete.

A growing initiative

I am sure that this initiative will grow and that Liam’s next community event will receive even more support.  Credit due to the lad, he gives his time for free and his enthusiasm is infectious.  His intentions are good and he sets a fine example.  We need more Liams!

 

A member of Liam’s team cleaning up the town
Litter-pickers all over town

We shouldn’t have to rely on someone else to clean up our mess

Retford is an historic, Georgian market town in the Bassetlaw area of North Nottinghamshire and like every other small town it  faces struggles.  I think we all know that resources are scant and we can’t always rely on these already overstretched funds to keep our environment immaculately clean.  It is up to us as individuals to take responsibility for our actions.

the litter-pickers return with bags of rubbish
After two hours the litter-pickers return

If everyone did a little – the effect would be huge and we would all benefit

If only everyone would do just a little bit – like tidying up outside their own front door or outside their business – life would be so much sweeter.  It should only take a few minutes, it would be so worth it and the world be a better place… for everyone.

Every little helps, as some big supermarket once said.

The Barrister in Wonderland

A large red ‘pocket’ watch draped in ivy is set at a jaunty angle from the top shelf

A new member of the Barrister family

The new ‘Barrister in Wonderland’ is the latest arrival to the Barrister’s Book Chamber family https://barristersbookchamber.com.  It is entirely dedicated to children’s books all stocked in the new, cosy premises.  You will find it in rural North Notts https://www.northnotts.co.uk/.  But this is not your average high street shop. This member of the family-run business only sells books for kids -in a very imaginative way. ‘The Barrister in Wonderland’ sits on a busy thoroughfare.  It is bright, fun and instantly welcoming.  The perfect place to get lost with a new find.

The striking shop from of the new book shop in town, black and gold with an Alice in Wonderland tea party themed window display
The Barrister in Wonderland, a children’s books shop with a difference

So many children’s books

The ‘Barrister in Wonderland’ is at 66 Carol Gate in the heart of the historic market town of Retford.  As you might guess from its name, it reflects the classic story.  It is an adventure inside and out. This is an independent bookshop that specialises in only children’s books.  It aims to appeal to inquisitive minds.

Rows and rows of story books completely cover one wall
Story books galore

My own secret hiding place

The ‘Barrister’s Book Chamber’ itself arrived on the Retford high street eighteen months ago.  However, since then I have taken many friends and family to visit this ‘book shop with a tea shop’.  It is my ‘meeting place’ of choice.  There are nooks and crannies in which to get cosy with a cup of tea and a piece of cake… the cakes, well that’s a whole blog on its own!  So, I was very eager to meet the newest addition to the Barrister family.

Pink flamingos and strategically placed books making a striking display
The Alice in Wonderland tea party themed window

A real delight

This little gem is full of fun artwork, it covers every available surface.  A tea party is the centre of the window display… and also on the ceiling inside!  It is a sight to behold.  Children of all ages will be completely entranced.  There is even a ‘grassy’ area for kids to sit and sample new stories.  See if you can find the White Rabbit disappearing into a hole with his pocket watch.  I promise he is there but not quite where you might expect to find him.

A blue chair and a red table set for tea are secured upside down to the ceiling
A tea party on the ceiling!

 

Story book wall

An entire wall is filled with story books, both new and second-hand.  There is a ‘Young Reader’ section too with easy to find books all sorted alphabetically by author.  Board books for tinies for as little as £1.  Arranged around the counter are vintage and classic story books and annuals.  Then there is a reference or non-fiction section with history, science, maths, cookery, crafts… and of course, a teen fiction section.

An elaborate mirror, decorated with blue butterflies adds a very ‘Wonderland’ dimension to the shop
An elaborate mirror decorated with butterflies adds a different dimension to the shop

Souvenirs of the visit

Unique book-marks, page markers, story blocks and lots more can be purchased at pocket-money prices.  A nice reminder of a visit to a very special little book shop.

A tiny fairy door behind which is another fairy door - lit and decorated. It’s low down near the floor, easily accessible for little fingers
A tiny fairy door behind which is another fairy door – lit and decorated. It’s low down near the floor, easily accessible for little fingers

Open to suggestions

The ‘Barrister in Wonderland’ is a children’s bookshop with a difference.  The staff loves kids and kids’ books.  The manager, Laura, is keen to form relationships with local schools.  She would like to hear what her visitors want and will be led by them.  Events will be very much driven by what her customers want.

Shelves of books for Young Readers
The Young Readers section

Inspiration for young minds

This bookshop is completely child-friendly and is bound to inspire and entertain young readers.  It is jam-packed with brilliant characters, tall tales and wonderful stories.  The perfect place to get lost together in a book.

A full size chair and small chair with a table by the fire on a grassy patch
Take a seat by the fire to settle down with a good book

Something for every child

There are bright displays to entice young readers to choose their next read, from board books for babies, to thrillers for teens.  As a result there’s an eclectic collection with something for every child.

A large red ‘pocket’ watch draped in ivy is set at a jaunty angle from the top shelf
A very Wonderland clock

Bookish décor

The ‘Barrister in Wonderland’ is home to some of the cleverest, bookish decor you’ve ever seen.  It is easy to navigate and there’s plenty of space to browse.  Kids will love to explore the shelves and hand-pick their new favourite character.

A six foot high, higgledy-piggledy, stack of books are formed into in archway at the entrance of the shop
A higgledy-piggledy stack of books makes the perfect entrance into the shop

A comprehensive selection

This is a treasure trove of children’s books.  A boutique that has almost every genre of book to inspire young ones to dive into a story.  The in-the-know booksellers are eager to recommend the perfect story, which is sure to encourage a love of reading – in even the most reluctant of readers.

A box contains brown-paper wrapped books a cryptic message on the front, a pot luck blind date with a book
A unique idea – blind date with a book

A veritable treasure trove

This magical emporium is full of second-hand and new wares.  Vintage finds and treasures just waiting to be discovered.  It is exactly what it says above the door – a wonderland of books just for kids.  Perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in some classic and well-loved tales – at a pocket-money price!

Playing cards play an important role in the quirky decor
Quirky, Wonderland themed artwork

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I can’t wait to see the look on the faces of my little ones when I take them to visit.  This is definitely something to do with the grandkids  https://thegrandparenthub.com/ when you visit North Notts https://www.innorthnotts.co.uk/

Coastal Walk from Flamborough to Bempton

A newly arrived Puffin with bright plumage looking for his burrow in the cliff face

Coastal Walk from Flamborough to Bempton

This stunning coastal walk explores some of Britain’s highest chalk cliffs from Flamborough Head https://www.yorkshire.com/places/yorkshire-coast/flamborough to Bempton.  What better way to welcome the Spring than with this moderately challenging walk.  At a distance of 6 miles in the sunshine along the East Yorkshire coast, there are wonderful views… and the arrival of some our Summer sea bird visitors for company.

An image of Flamborough Head Lighthouse against a blue sky
Flamborough Head Lighthouse

Best Foot Forward

Start from Flamborough Head Lighthouse, a well-maintained and imposing beacon with a lot of history.  The original lighthouse was first built in 1669   https://www.trinityhouse.co.uk/lighthouse-visitor-centres/flamborough-lighthouse-visitor-centre This is an opportunity for refreshment and toilets at the Lighthouse Cafe, before starting out.  Take a walking-pole, you may need it and, depending on the weather, sturdy walking boots.  The walk starts off with some fairly narrow, steep, steps.  Look out for skylarks, corn buntings, stone chats, wheat ears and of course, many butterflies and an abundance of wildflowers.

Rugged cliffs, giving way to the crashing sea below
Stunning views of cliffs, sea and sky

Bright Yellow Gorse in Full Bloom

Skirt the Flamborough golf course, edged with vibrant, yellow gorse in full bloom at this time of year.  The only problem with this walk is the many stops that need to be taken in order to drink in the views and take photographs.  The North Sea is at its best along this stretch of coast.  It is surprisingly blue.  There are lots of places to just sit and stare.

Bright yellow gorse, blue sea and blue sky with whisky white clouds at Flamborough Head
Yellow gorse on the edge of Flamborough Golf Course

Follow Your Nose

It is difficult to go wrong, just follow the coast path up through Thornwick, leaving the bay down below.  There are not many opportunities for paddling.  The cliffs are steep drops to the sea below.  Sadly, there is some coastal erosion in parts.  Great care must be taken.

Dramatic and steep the cliffs are home to thousands of seabirds
A first sighting of Puffins returning to their burrows in the steep, chalk cliffs

Breathtaking

The walk ends at the visitor centre of the RSPB’s https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/bempton-cliffs Bempton Cliffs nature reserve.  Here are viewing platforms to get better sightings of the nesting birds.  And there possibility of seeing a Puffin.  Refreshments are available here too.  The cliffs are a temporary home to razorbills, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets, fulmars and puffins – a cacophony of screeching seabirds.  This is one of Europe’s busiest seabird colonies.  Be prepared though, the smell of the guano can take your breath away.

The sun highlights the whiteness of the chalk cliffs tumbling down to the sea below
Another breath-taking view of the East Yorkshire coast

The Stunning East Yorkshire Coast

This has to be one of the most stunning coastal walks in Britain, it’s certainly one of my favourites.  This particular route was voted 50th in an ITV poll to find Britian’s favourite walk. If you’re even mildly interested in wildlife, Bempton Cliffs is the place to be.

The steep white cliffs of the Yorkshire coast reflect the the sunlight in contrast against the North Sea
A view of some of Britain’s steepest chalk cliffs along the East Yorkshire coast