Janet Roberts's Blog, page 5

2016 English National Sheep Dog Trials - Castle Howard - Yorkshire

I just love sheep dog trials - and to go to the English Nationals was just so exciting, and well worth the long journey on crowded roads!  Castle Howard looked breathtaking. The following is from the programme.
Just over 100 years ago the first sheep dog trials took place in North Wales.  They began as a competition between shepherds to see which of them had the best sheep dog.

National Trials are held annually each summer in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.  There are a few occasions on which they have not been held - the First and Second World Wars, and during the Foot & Mouth outbreak in 2001.

The dogs are guided through a series of commands to complete a variety of tasks which reflect their everyday work with a packet of sheep.  Each handler will have a preference when giving their commands, either by voice, by whistle, or a combination of both.  This has changed very little over the years, and the shepherds of yesterday would easily  recogni the requirements of today's handlers' competition.

During the three days of the National Trials, the handlers will run 150 dogs over the course.  Each handler can enter a maximum of three dogs, but only two of these may run, the third being an 'alternative' dog who may be substituted for one of the two.  The handler's aim is to gain a place in their National Team to represent their Nation at the Society's annual International Trial.  Each National Team has 15 places and one reserve place, so competition is fierce.

My favourite part of the run is the shed.  This is where the sheep are driven into a ring, marked out by piles of sawdust, which is 40 yards in diameter.  The task is to separate two sheep from the others, something that goes so against their strong herding instinct. A quiet, calm handler seems to be the most successful - those that wave their arms around, and pace up and down, are rarely successful!  And all this is when the whole course is on a time limit - in this case only 15 minutes.


In addition to the Trials, there was a fascinating Craft Marquee, excellent refreshments and numerous trade stalls.  All together an excellent weekend.
 *** Have you seen my ebook - 'The Power of Distant Healing'?  Ideal if you have a poorly pet!  Just click here

Sculpture at Doddington Hall - Lincolnshire

This was the third sculpture exhibition at Doddington Hall, but the first I'd visited.  As this is such a lovely place anyway, it seemed like a good excuse to return! (See previous blog).

Viewing the exhibition is included in the price for entry into the garden, but the catalogue is extra.  At first I thought I could manage without this, but I soon found that the sculptures only had a number written on a block of wood, with no information whatsoever.

There are 373 piece of art, which to be honest, is quite overwhelming when you first arrive! They seemed to be everywhere, and it must have been a huge job positioning so many, often very large, piece of art into just the right setting.  One of the striking things was the price - boy these things don't come cheap!

I'm going to include a small selection of my favourite pieces.


194 - 'Tree for Eternity' - Wood, fibreglass, synthetic grass and steel
Lucy Strachan    £3250

 336 -' Pollination Stems' - Anodized aluminum and stainless steel
Ruth Moilliet  £53

176 - 'Back to Back' - Stone & Marble ResinLilly Henry £23998






148 - 'Mother and Child' - Stainless Steel
Johannes von Stumm - £11700











In addition to the vast number of sculptures in the grounds of the Hall it was also possible to walk over to the indoor gallery in the Stable Yard where more delights were on show.

Obviously it was impossible to see all the works of art on display in one visit - so it will just be a case of finding time to visit again before this excellent exhibition closes on September 11th 2016.
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Poppies at Lincoln Castle

I was fortunate enough to see the amazing ceramic poppies at The Tower of London (see previous blog) which I thought was absolutely amazing, so was keen to see the travelling display when it arrived at Lincoln Castle.  It is now called 'Poppies: Wave' and was created by artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper.  Lincoln Castle is its second venue.

I travelled by train from Newark and was somewhat disappointed that the bus stop for the 'Walk & Ride' bus was not more clearly marked, but did eventually arrive at the Castle.  Entry was free, which was good, and there were hundreds of people enjoying the lovely sunny weather.

However, I must admit that I was a little disappointed that there were no information boards or videos about the construction of the poppies, their arrival in Lincoln or generally their significance.  There are some excellent interviews on the web that could have been used which would have enhanced the visitor experience.

One thing I did really like was the fact that you could get up so much closer to the poppies than was ever possible at The Tower of London.

According to the web Lincolnshire has many strong ties with landmark events in World War One, when Lincoln Castle was used by the Lincolnshire Regiment for fundraisers and parades.  The world's first operational tank (as well as aircraft and munitions) were manufactured in Lincoln, and countrywide there were 37 military aerodromes by 1918.  Seven Lincolnshire battalions also took part in the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

Also on the web was the fact that another section of the poppy display - known as the cascade - or Weeping Window - will go on display at Black Watch Castle and Museum in Perth, Scotland from 30th June to 25th September, and at Caernarfon Castle from 12th October til the 20th November 2016.

I was really pleased that I'd made the effort to go to Lincoln to see the poppies, but I thought a lot more thought and effort could have gone into the display to make it much more meaningful.

***Afterwards I went on a guided tour in a horse-drawn carriage, parked just outside the Cathedral - an excellent experience and highly recommended.***
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Rhubarb Farm - Langwith - north Nottinghamshire

I thought this was a farm that grew rhubarb!  If I'd read the yellow NGS booklet (see previous blog about this excellent organisation) I would have known that this place is actually a fascinating agricultural social enterprise schme.

After a very warm welcome, and a stop to buy lovely produce from the stall, it was through the willow tunnel and out into an area where tables and chairs were arranged and cakes and drinks were available.  I had deliberately timed it to coincide with a tour, and how glad I was, as it was absolutely fascinating, and lasted over an hour.

Our tour was taken by the remarkable Jennie Street,the Managing Director and powerhouse behind the scheme.  They grow organic fruit and vegetables using the unemployed, recovering drug and alcohol misusers, ex-offenders, young people not in education, employment or training, excluded school students, people with learning disabilities, people with mental and physical ill health, ex service personnel and people with dementia.  What I particularly liked was the fact that they all mix together - not separate days for each category - and everyone benefits.  Also they are not called 'clients' or 'patients', but all are known as 'volunteers' - which I thought an excellent idea.


From the vast area they cultivate they produce a weekly organic veggie bag for local customers, which looked most tempting!

Then it was out into the field to see for ourselves the large array of polytunnels and buildings just bursting with produce.  Nottingham University Environmental Technology Centre estimated that they could save 66,000 litres of water per year from the two big polytunnels.  They have two water tanks, one with a capacity of 13,600 litres and the other 37,450 litres. Funding for the tanks and irrigation system came from the European Regional Development Fund, and from Limestone Journeys/Heritage Lottery Fund.

As well as all the impressive crops we also saw bee hives, an area for growing comfrey used as a natural fertilizer, a wildlife pond buzzing with beautiful damsel flies, and very happy chickens.

They also conduct exciting environmental and Vegetable Growing sessions for school and educational visits, and it's also possible to do a Corporate Challenge Day.

A lot of their lovely produce is sold at the Welbeck Farm Shop, and I'll certainly be looking out for it next time I visit.

I thought this was the most amazing place, and couldn't have been more impressed both with the produce and the ethos behind the scheme.

  I will certainly be going back to buy more of their lovely produce ***Have you seen my web page? Just click here

E.Midlands Flower Show - Newstead Abbey - Nottinghamshire

This was the first time this Show had been held at this venue, and what a lovely setting it proved to be.  Even the peacocks were enjoying the day by shrieking their heads off, to the amusement of the crowds!

 My first stop was to listen to the very talented Carlton Brass,



Then it was time to look round the show, that seemed to have something for everyone.  Here is the ever-popular Cookery Demonstation.

I myself preferred the flower arranging.  Here we're being shown how they create a complicated bridal boquet

 However, the main attraction had to be all the stalls selling tempting plants!  I could have spoent a fortune as everything looked so good!

I thoroughly enjoyed the show, even though I left early due to a very severe thunder storm.  If I had any ctriticism it would be of the woefully inadequate catering facilities.  If the show is ever held here again this issue will have to be addressed.
***Did you know oil was extracted not far from here, which made a vital difference to World War II?  For more information just click here 

Pisani Chapel - near Cromford - Derbyshire

I'd never heard of this place until I saw a small piece in the 'Celebrating Cromford Village Festival 2016' programme.  I didn't know where it was or what it was all about but the ad. said 'The Chapel is only open to the public once a year' - now that was too good an opportunity to miss!

It also said services would be held at 11am and 2pm - so that would be something different.

It turned out to be within the Pisani marble works off the A6 heading south from Cromford.  It involved an uneven path away from the works, and then suddenly there was this tiny little building.  Afterwards I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with the Greek Orthodox priest and he said when the Pisani family started here they saw a small farm barn abandoned at the end of their land, and decided to turn it into a private chapel.  He said Greek Orthodox families often converted rooms or outbuildings to accommodate their religion if there was no church nearby.

The chapel was certainly small - holding only a handful of people, all standing of course as in the Eastern tradition, but full of the most beautiful icons, paintings and candles.  It was divided into a separate section for the chancel end, and what I would call the nave.  I thought it quite breathtaking.

Then it was outside for the service which involved blessing the little stream that ran at the side of the chapel.  Unfortunately only 4 of us attended the service, which was a pity as it was absolutely fascinating.  Fortunately all in English, which we followed in a book, everything was sung, and was quite beautiful.  It also involved taking sips of the spring water, being liberally splashed with water using a big brush, and loads of incense.  I wouldn't have missed the unique experience for anything!

The future of this marvellous place seems to be somewhat uncertain as this part of the works is to be sold, and as the chapel is no longer used, except for this one day of the year when Orthodox priests from other parts of the country visit, maybe it will not be even there next year.  If it is, and is open, I urge you to go and see somewhere so unique, special and beautiful.
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The Echium Garden - Edwinstowe - Nottinghamshire

I'd seen these wonderful plants in London, but never dreamt they would grow in the chilly north Midlands.  Thern I discovered that the National Plant Collection of Echiums is actually only a few miles from my home, at Edwinstowe, right on the edge of Sherwood Forest!

Last Sunday was a rare day when it was possible to visit - all their business is usually carried out by mail order.  It was taking place st Edwinstowe House, which I imagined would be the stately home for the village, but turned out to be an office block, having once housed the National Coal Board!

The buildings are in a square, forming a delightful, sheltered courtyard, on several different levels, complete with fountains.  In fact, it is quite breath-taking, and must be lovely for the people who work there.  There is also a cafe, which is open to the public, and which I certainly intend to visit later.

The delightful garden had been created by the owners of Echium World, and at one end they were selling various varities of echiums.  What I really liked was the fact that they were so knowledgeable, and so keen to share their expertise.  Of course I bought a plant, hopefully I'll get it thought the winter, and next year I'll be rewarded with a magnificient blue echium - I can hardly wait.

If you want to see them for yourself, and it's well worth a trip, they are at Edwinstowe House again on Sunday 22nd May, 29th May and 5th June4 2016.
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Floral Media - Caunton - Nottinghamshire

I'd never visited this place before, but it was listed in this year's wonderful Open Gardens Scheme (see previous blog)

This place is not normally open to the public, and exists for Wedding receptions and special events.  Proprietors Steven and Paula Routledge have a background of more than 20 years in both horticulture and agriculture.

There are gardens all the way round the lovely house, as well as views over the north Nottinghamshire countryside.  Everything was so quiet andpeaceful, with lots of seats, and I really enjoyed my visit.

This quiet courtyard really appealed to me - what a lovely space to spend time in.

There were also some plants on sale, although nothing I hadn't already got, and sales didn't seem to be the main aim of the day.

There was also a refreshment area, which I suppose is where they hold wedding receptions etc.  Unfortunatlery they were only selling cakes, and I didn't want that for lunch, so ended up going elsewhere.

It was interesting to read on the web that Pauls has provided fabulous floral displays for may special occasions including tables centres for the Dorchester hotel in London.  A variety of cut flowers and foliages could be seen growing in the gasrdens ready to be harvested during the wedding season.

Paula is also the newst member of BBC Radio Noattingham 'Gardeners' - in fact the first female voice!  This is a weekly show on both Thursday afternoons and Sunbday mornings.



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Landscapes of Capability Brown Embroidery Exhibition - Clumber Park - Nottinghamshire

This small but delightful exhibition has been organised by The Embroiderers' Guild, whcih was originally formed in 1906 by a small group of ladies with the aim of maintaining high standards of embroidery.  Today the Guild aims to promote and encourage the art of embroidery and related crafts, together with supporting research into the craft alongside collecting and documenting examples from all nations and ages.

2016 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, a designer who changed the national landscape and created a style which has shaped people's picture of the quintessential English countryside.

The Embroiderers' Guild is a CB Festivasl Partner, and is contributing with a series of unique textile exhibitions at venues across the country throughout 2016.  Using the landscape and gardens as their inspriation, members have interpreted these using fabric and thread to create unique pieces of work.

I liked this bold applique work by Sue Woods of the Chresterfield Branch, simply entitled 'Pears at Clumber.

Two pieces from the skilled members of the Lincolnshire Branch caught my eye.  Wildlife in the Landscape in Clumber Park, by Pat Cave looks deseptively simple, but there is a huge amount of work involved, and although it appears at first glance to be just a black and white embroidery, infact the delicately-work breast of the swan in creamy, and they have yellow beaks!  I could live with this picture!

Also from a member of the Lincolnshire Branch is this delightful, overflowing piece by Jo Eades entitled 'Clumber Park with Hawfinch' - how typical that is of this lovely area, just bursting with bird life.

However, my absolutely favourite, and yet probably the most simple piece of work in the exhibition is this lovely picture by Jenny King from the North Nottinghamshitre Creative Textile Group based at Retford.  It is simply called 'Clumber Chapel'.  Apparently it started as a simple photo of the area, which was then transferred onto the fabric, rather like printing a T-Shirt!  Then the picture was enhanced with the addition of stitches and tiny pieces of pink material.  Just stunning!

I was so glad I caught this delightful exhibition, which is only at Clumber until Monday 2nd May 2016.  Do try and see it!
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Porltand Collection - Harley Gallery - Welbeck - Nottinghamshire

The Harley Gallery has long been a favourite of mine (see previous post) so I was thrilled when a new building was erected close by to house more of the wonderful Portland Collection, and I couldn't wait to go and have a look!

The stunning new building covers 800 square metres which includes a glazed, spacious entrance and two top-lit galleries.

 The first gallery is full of wonderful paintings and I was particularly keen to see the Anthony van Dyck's, of which there are several.  This fine painting ia attributed to the famous artist, and the caption reads 'William Cavendish - later 1st Duke of Newcastle, about 1636 - attributed to Anthony van Dyck.  Oil on canvas.  Commissioned by the futre 1st Duke of Newcastle.  Cavendish had a reputation as one of the most brilliant horsemen in 17th century Europe.  He was also a musician, playwright and poet as well as 'a great lover and admirer of the female sex' in the words of his second wife, Margaret Lucas.'

As though that wasn't enough there are also paintings by George Stubbs.  I loved this one.  'Willliam Henry Cavendish Bentick - 3rd Duke of Portland in front of Welbeck Abbey Riding Stables"


However, it would be quite wrong to thing that this new gallery is just for art.  There is a real mix of treasures, including an astounding collection of gold and silverware.

I already knew that the Portland Collection was famous for its Minatures, but now many more are on display, and I discovered there's even a handy magnifying glass hanging on the wall for visitors to borrow.

I just loved this new gallery, which is just the right size, without being overwhelming like the big ones in, say London.  If I had any criticism it would be that whilst the information tickets are at a good height, being printed in white on grey, against grey walls, in areas where the lightiing is necessarily low, they proved quite hard to read.

There is still so much to look at, study and admire, it will certainly a place I will be returning to many times in the future.
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