Editor’s Letter: April

There’s a lovely unpredictability to April. One moment the clouds gather like a threat; the next, sunlight pours through and the world feels suddenly golden. It’s a month of in-betweens - it still feels like winter in the mornings, but we’ve been blessed with some great bouts of sunshine —a rarity for so early in the season.

Out in the farms and villages, everything feels as though it’s gently leaning toward the light. Lambs are wobbling through fields, bluebells are beginning their quiet takeover of shady woodlands, and birds—ever the optimists—are filling the mornings with song. I have some starlings and jackdaws that have taken up camp in our garden this year, and their morning alarm clock is a pure delight.

April really is the month of beginnings, and fittingly, we have our own fresh chapter to share with you.

I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome Rachel Atherton as a new partner in the business. Rachel and I are old colleagues - we worked together on in the marketing department of a magazine, and so it feels like the stars are aligning for us to work together once more. Rachel brings with her not only a love for Derbyshire, but a wealth of creative energy, storytelling flair, and big-hearted vision for where we go next. Together, we’re taking Your Derbyshire to print, with a seasonal print magazine that will look delightful on your coffee table.

More on that very soon, but rest assured, we’ve been dreaming up new ideas and ways to connect with Derbyshire’s people. I can’t wait for you to get to know her in the months to come.

This month, we’re take you from the wild edges of the Peak District to the charming corners of market towns —Ashbourne, in particular, will be given the spotlight, which is much needed after recent roadworks have disrupted business in the town. We’ve also been chatting to some incredible creatives - including Eloise of Salt&Co Studio, and Deb of Fabulous Places - but you’ll have to wait for the magazine to catch our chats in full!

April really feels like the beginning of a new year, not only in nature but in ourselves: a reawakening of sorts. I hope you get the opportunity to sit out in your garden, listen to those beautiful birds, and enjoy some springtime magic, wherever you are.

With warmth and excitement,

Olivia