(cont)

antioxidant properties that actually strip the arterial walls of fatty deposits reducing the risk of heart disease – a claim supported by the British Heart Foundation’s Dr Charmaine Griffiths. In addition, many experts claim that cocoa flavinoids have anti-carcinogenic properties.

The upshot of this research – at least for chocoholics – is that ‘proper’ chocolate – that is, chocolate which uses cocoa butter rather than other fats, is in fact better for our health than its reputation as a guilty pleasure would have us believe.

Whilst chocolate is still relatively high in calories and should be enjoyed with a degree of restraint, it seems that a few squares or a bite of a treat on Valentine’s Day is actually good for your health… and thankfully, you’re spoilt for choice at Jan’s shop in Folkingham’s Market Place.

“We’re creating chocolate hearts with anywhere between 10 and 20 chocolates inside, individual chocolates and chocolate teddies.” Says Jan. “We can also produce chocolate champagne bottles iced with a message of your choice and personalised chocolate gifts… we’ve been asked to make specially commissioned products for so many different customers over the year and have been asked to ice so many unusual, quirky or romantic messages!”

Most rewarding for Jan are the customers that have been returning for their Valentine’ Day chocolates for ten or 15 years.

“It really does warm the heart. You’re part of their Valentine’s Day, and it’s very pleasing to think that thousands of customers are enjoying your chocolate on February 14th!”

Jan’s talent goes way beyond that of an artisan producer, wanting to act as a chocolate ambassador and bring a little piece of Belgium to the UK. Consequently last year he opened his chocolate themed coffee shop where visitors can enjoy a special Belgian blend that Jan himself describes as ‘rocket fuel’, plus a ‘make your own’ blend supplied on a stick so patrons can make their drink to just their taste and enjoy the remaining chocolate as a sort of warm chocolate lolly.
The shop also stocks cakes, individual chocolates and truffles to enjoy with a host of coffees, and teas, proving popular with passers-by and regular chocoholic patrons.