Market Harborough Living December 2015 by Best Local Living

Walker’s Bookshop

Ashley Bell Ringers

Festive Fun

Christmas Design Ideas

MARKET

HARBOROUGH LIVING COVERING MARKET HARBOROUGH, SURROUNDING VILLAGES & RUTLAND

Christmas Crackers! Gift Shopping in

DECEMBER 2015 £1.50

Market Harborough

GET IN TOUCH: marketharboroughliving.co.uk MH DEC COVER.indd 3

9 771741 580014

@MktHLivingMag

MktHLivingMag 19/11/2015 22:38

NOW OPEN WONDERFUL NEW RESTAURANT & GARDEN CENTRE A16 Spalding. Closer than you think 2

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 December Contents RU T L AN D & M A R K E T H A R BO R O U G H L IV ING

www.rutlandliving.co.uk www.marketharboroughliving.co.uk 62 Education

OU will see that I turned my hand to the fashion shoot this month – with a lot of help from some friends, but the experience has reinforced, yet again, the gratitude I feel for my contributors. Vanessa – please don’t go on holiday again! So I’d like to say many, many thanks and a very Happy Christmas to my faithful and hardworking team: Amander Meade, Catherine Varney, Vanessa Hollander, Nicola Hardy, Michelle Hansel, Caroline Aston, Isabella Hamnett, Matt Wright and a very warm welcome to new recruit Katie Mitchell, who will continue to write about all things child-friendly. I am also launching another new feature – ‘Clubs and Societies’ so please do send me details of any organisation that meets on a regular basis and we will endeavour to include you from January. More salutations to the ever-busy advertising managers, Tracy Watkinson and Sosennah Every, ad copy manager, Rachel Beecroft and last but by no means least the long suffering, diligent designers, Steve Handley and Nik Ellis. As I write, the UK has just paid tribute to those that lost their lives in the horrific attacks on Paris last month and it is with this in mind that I wish one and all a happy and peaceful Christmas as we are reminded to cherish those that are nearest and dearest.

Abigail

Updates from Rutland County College and Leicester High School

65 Local History Christmas Facts

66 Local Walk

King’s Cliffe and Blatherwycke, well suited to the winter months

68 Cre 8

Christmas with the Family

70 Out and About

INCORPORATING

Village Lifestyle

Styling & selling homes together

73 Local People

It’s Christmas Time

Women in Philanthropy

8 Christmas Gift Guide

74 Art and Culture

From Rutland and Market Harborough

Peter Barker Fine Art in Uppingham

17 Health and Beauty

77 Local People

Christmas Pampering Ideas

Tim Walker

23 Sean Hope

78 Profile

Two fantastic festive recipes

Peter Polycarpou Stars in Curve’s ‘Oliver!’

24 Food and Drink

Great Food Club: Paper Plane Designs

29 Food and Drink

Christmas Wines from Under Fine Wraps

32 Fashion

Christmas Party Time

38 Interior Designs

Dress Your House for Christmas

41 Shops and Services Harborough Happenings

42 Out and About

Woodlands Retreat at Hothorpe Hall

47 Reader Recipe

Gingerbread Biscuits

49 Shops and Services Rutland Updates

@RutlandLiving

A Day Out in Saffron Walden

7 Editor’s Selection

Editor Abigail Richardson 01572 756733 Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY rutlandliving@gmail.com Advertisement Manager, Rutland Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 rutlandliving@btinternet.com Advertisement Manager, Market Harborough Sosennah Every 07884 124316 sos.every@gmail.com Advertising Copy & Subscriptions Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne

54 Shops and Services

Rutland Living cover Elli Dean, Tel: 07932055548, www.ellideanphotography.co.uk. Market Harborough Living cover Gift shopping in Market Harborough

58 Diary Dates

SUBSCRIBE TO RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING

Market Harborough Market What’s on in our region this month

61 Clubs and Societies Bell Ringing

Subscriptions – annual rate £20 (UK only). Please write to The Editor, enclosing cheque made payable to Local Living Ltd. Or subscribe online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

Tel: 07968 846 335 s ojohome.co.uk

SoJo Home

Creating beautiful spaces

Porter &May

E S TAT E A G E N T S

Tel: 01572 337 337 por terandm ay.com RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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Y, D E L IV E R ES M E D A Y O L D A P P L IA N C A S R U O F T O U L O A B V ASK A AND REMO IO N ONNECT

PENDE E D IN L A C

YOUR LO

IL A T E R L A LECTRIC

The finest selection of hand knotted rugs in the area. Modern & traditional OPEN TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 10.00AM TO 5.00PM 6 The Maltings, off Mill St, Oakham, Rutland. LE15 NN6 0PB 6EA www.oakhamrugs.co.uk

01572 724441

mail@oakhamrugs.co.uk

Oakham Oriental Rugs Ltd t/as Oakham Rugs

www.knightsofoakham.com 33-37 High Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AH • Tel: (01572) 722240 •

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Professional InteriorDesign DesignService Service Professional Design Service Professional Interior Interior Re-Upholstery andSoft SoftFurnishings Furnishings Re-Upholstery Soft Furnishings Re-Upholstery and Unique and BeautifulFurniture Furniture Unique Furniture Uniqueand and Beautiful Beautiful Suppliers of Designers Designers Guild, Zoffany, of Guild, Zoffany, SuppliersSuppliers of Designers Guild, Zoffany, Colefax and Fowler, Colefax and Fowler, Romo and Harlequin Nina Campbell, Romo andand Harlequin Colefax and Fowler, Romo Harlequin MARKETPLACE PLACE· ·UPPINGHAM UPPINGHAM· ·RUTLAND RUTLAND· ·LE15 LE159QH 9QH · · 01572 01572823389 823389 66MARKET www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk · info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk · info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

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Award g Winnin e u q ti Bou onal s r e “Best P ” Service

4 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7LT

@ THE OFFICES, GLASTON ROAD, UPPINGHAM, RUTLAND, LE15 9EU

www.thelittlebigbrashop.co.uk

NEXT TO WELLAND VALE GARDEN CENTRE

Tel: 01858 465592

T: 01572 824004 | M: 07702 293455

My cushions are handmade in Britain by skilled artisans, using top quality designer fabrics.

Only a few are made in each design, so you can own something exclusive (special orders can be considered) They are filled with the highest quality China duck (hypo-allergenic filling on request)

TAKE COMFORT IN EXCELLENCE

Sizes available from 14 inches up to 28 inches

WWW.FABNIKI.COM Tel: 07801 682284

Stock is usually dispatched by courier the same day

Beautiful hand-made cushions in fabrics I love

www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk

LEARN TO FLY FISH CHRISTMAS VOUCHERS Rutland Water

Activity Gift Vouchers Now Available Online www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk/ giftvouchers Gift options for everyone; Total Beginners, Improvers, Experienced Fly Fishers, Coarse Fishers. Individuals, Couples, Families, Groups & Corporate Fly Fishing Team Days. Contact Rob Waddington on 01572 722422 or email rob@learntoflyfish.co.uk

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ED I T OR’S SE LE CTI O N

It’s Christmas Time….. Abigail Richardson is beginning to get excited!

Hosting a party? Otters Deli can provide an array of delicious canapés – pictured here: Chicken crostini with an apple chutney and semi dried tomato, Cucumber cups with hot smoked salmon flakes and cream cheese, Smoked trout fillet with a beetroot and horseradish chutney, Smoked salmon and cream cheese crispbread and a 3 cheese leek and spinach mini tart. Thanks to Ashley Farm Shop for their tips and ideas to help simplify this year’s Christmas day lunch: Starter: How about some ‘Port of Lancaster Smokehouse’ Smoked Salmon on ‘Peter’s Yard’ artisan crispbreads or one of Ashley Farm Shop’s quality pates or terrines. Choose from Pheasant, Partridge or Roe deer and serve with caramelised red onion chutney, Spiced Apple and Pear Chutney, or ‘Saints and Sinner’s’ Plum and Port Jelly. For more finesse, there’s always the Lobster Terrine! Main Course: Choose from local suppliers including turkeys from ‘Halstead House Farm’ at Tilton-on-the Hill, cockerels from ‘Fosse Meadow’ at South Kilworth or a delicious rib of Angus Beef from stock raised at Ashley Farm itself. Dessert: Simply buy Ashley Farm’s delicious home-made Christmas pudding or go for the cheese board option – lots of local and British suppliers in store.

Or impress your guests with a deluxe local cheese board – call in to chat ideas through with Leo. Otters Deli, 19 Mill Street, Oakham, www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk Tel: 01572 756481

Need a fabulous new look for the season? Why not head to Will Wheelwright Hairdressing salon on Church Street and get advice from Will and ‘Rising Star’ nominee, new boy Dan Adams. (Many thanks to Dan for his work on our fashion pages this month – what a star indeed.) Tel: 01572 757137 Fancy a tutorial or would like a makeover for a special event? Paula Tennant is makeup artist extraordinaire see her here making this month’s models even more glamorous- for further information logon to www.paulatennant.com or Tel: 07813 703155. And don’t forget our smaller feathered friends this Christmas… Stock up on all your garden bird needs for the winter period from the award winning conservation farm in Great Easton: www.eyebrookwildbirdfeeds.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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S H OP P I N G

Gorgeous Homewares Make Great Gifts… Amander Meade chooses some of the best around, all available in Rutland

Hampers from £15 from Otters Smokehouse and Deli

‘Racing’ by Gary Benfield, £795 at Trent Gallery

Family portrait vouchers available from Sonara Studios from £50

Kate Spade Hot Water Bottle Cover, £99 from Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors.

Handprinted Silk and Chiffon Scarves by Rex Ray, from £75 at The Rug Studio

Cream stand mixer by Smeg from Knights of Oakham

Teenage Dirtbag Laundry Bag, £12.50 from www.thedesignmould.co.uk

Handmade glass bird, £18 at Itch Gallery

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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The Chatsworth Collection - Baby alpaca throws, £149.99 from The Wool Room Selection of rugs and cushions priced from £25 at Oakham Rugs RIGHT: Foxy Rutlander Mug, £8 from www.wellstreetstudio.co.uk

Range of hand printed homewares priced from £15 at Please Shut The Gate

Candle Stand £12.99, Diffuser £18 at Albar’s Den

Large Polka Dot Turkey Platter by Emma Bridgewater, £115 at Sarah Harding Interiors

Ceramic Bassett Hound (other animals available), £170 at Itch Gallery

Occasional Table £39, Picture £12 at Junk & Disorderly

Oil on canvass by Martin Bradley, £8.500 at Samuel Robson Fine Art

Traditional Kilim Rug, £225; Traditional Kilim cushion covers from £16 all at The Rug Studio

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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A family business nestled in the heart of Rutland, Topset has a name for quality. Using the finest, ethically sourced gemstones, we create exquisite jewellery for clients around the World, combining the traditional goldsmith methods along with the latest computer design technology. When you purchase a piece of Topset jewellery, you can be assured that it will be finished to the highest standards and loved for a lifetime. Please come in and visit us at our showroom 27 High Street, Uppingham, Rutland. LE15 9PY 01572 759100 www.topsetjewellery.com

The Home of Christmas Perfect presents for those around you

Fords Of Oakham 8 Church Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AA. Tel. 01572 722654

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10%

when y OFF o in this u bring (must b advert ep

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• • • • • •

Original Paintings Ceramics Handmade Jewellery Glass Textiles . . . and more Now offering a range of creative workshops 17a Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6EA 01572 755333 - www.itchgallery.co.uk

Contemporary handcrafted jewellery & adornments

Merry Christmas!

Ada is a beautiful boutique style gallery, where you will discover wonderfully crafted jewellery & metalware by owner Ruth Wood & more than 40 other highly skilled top & emerging UK designer makers. With a unique exclusive selection of contemporary adornments promoting the best of British Craftsmanship.

4 The Courtyard Bennett’s Place 30-31 High Street Market Harborough Leicestershire LE16 7NL 01858 461896 info@adagallery.co.uk

OPEN Wed to Sat 10-5pm --------------------

www.adagallery.co.uk

27 Mill Street Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA 01572 722 345 showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk

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S H OP P I N G

Christmas Crackers All gifts found in and around Market Harborough. Happy shopping!

NO.34 BOUTIQUE For men who like to look good – toiletry bag

EYEBROOK WILD BIRD FEEDS Rustic Bird tables and Feeders for Bird and animal lovers

BIRD IN THE HAND Treat someone to an experience with a difference handling Birds of Prey, Experience days start from £29. 15% Discount on selected experiences booked before the 8th December - go to www.birdinthehand.co.uk/living

NO.34 BOUTIQUE Naughty & nice soaps for him & her

TJ THORNTO N JEWELLE RS 9ct White Go ld Diamond Initial Pendant £145

SHOP LITTLE BIG BRA Set £55 Fantasie Lingerie

BRIDGE 67 COOKERY SCHOOL Courses start at £135 per person – a one-day cookery course voucher is valid for 12 months

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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TWOBIRDSPIRITS.CO.UK - 20cl After Dinner Mint Vodka £11.70, 70 cl £34.50, 20cl Christmas Spiced Vodka £13.50, 70 cl £39.50 - Gift Box £39.50

A selection of gifts from NO.34 BOUTIQUE

THE SKINNY CARD COMPANY Find Beautifully designed Cups and aprons – stocked at Langton Garden Centre Gift Shop

BODY FITNESS PERSONAL TRAINING Give a Gift of fitness with a 30 day Kickstart Fitness programme for £249

ABOVE: FOTOGRAF KJAERULFF A photoshoot to make your loved one feel special - £50 special offer before Christmas for a photo session including make-up. Treat yourself to a range of beautiful bespoke products including wall art, digital files and albums RIGHT: THE KIBWORTH BOOKSHOP - For those who love books treat them to a voucher or how about this new edition of the J.M Barrie children’s classic, Peter Pan

LITTLE BIG BRA SHOP Waxx Boxers for Men £20

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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Antique & ANTIQUE AND Modern y MODERN Jeweller JEWELLERY 3 COVENTRY ROAD, MARKET HARBOROUGH, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE16 9BX. TEL: 01858 468858 tim@tjthornton.com

Hallblue twinkle rings 18ctDower white&gold tourmaline from £120 and diamond £1995

Spi tfire silver & diamond enamel cufflinks 18ct white gold cluster £105 £1595

Amber&silver pendants 9ct antique modern pendants, from £50 silver vermeil pendants

Ruby ring rings, £1350 Gold signet 18ct gold and 9ct gold

Victorian silver locket 18ct gold diamond £340 cluster ring £2200

pewter photo frames Wedding rings in gold, platinum £15-55 and palladium

The Skinny Card Co creates a humorous range of ceramics, textiles and Greeting cards with a country feel. Our collection is designed around our passion for chickens and other animals. There is something really special about Robins, and this cheeky little chap is no exception, he also appears on other products in our range, why not take a peek by visiting the website

www.theskinnycardcompany.co.uk

Fantastic range of cycles for the whole family, top brands

• Accessories • Repair Service George Halls Cycle Centre, 10-12 Northampton Road Market Harborough 01858 465507

www.247cycleshop.com

Open Tues – Sat. Christmas deadline: Sat 12 Dec 2015 claire@thepaintpottle.co.uk 43 St Mary’s Rd. Market Harborough. Tel: 07900 090 851

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Quality garden birdseed at farm gate prices Visit our award winning conservation farm for unique Christmas gifts for all the family including bird tables & feeders, seasonal mixes, merry mealworms & festive suets for the birds to enjoy! Stock up on all your garden birds need for the winter period.

Great Value 20kg Mixed Seed £10.00

@Eyebrook_Birds

Open Friday & Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 9am – 12pm

You are welcome to collect at anytime but please phone to ensure we are here to serve you. Rectory Farm, right of Church, Great Easton. Tel: 01536 770771

www.eyebrookwildbirdfeeds.co.uk

LOCALLY HAND ROASTED COFFEE Available as whole beans or a grind in 200g bags PERFECT FOR THAT CHRISTMAS PRESENT. 4 bags of Coffee Beans or a Grind £20.00

Tiamo Ceramic Grinder + 2 bags of Coffee Beans £30.00

Aeropress Coffee Maker + 2 bags of Medium Grind £40.00

We can wrap and post any of the selection to a UK postal address for an extra charge - £4.50

Tiamo Grinder, Aeropress Coffee Maker + 2 bags of Coffee Beans £60.00

t: 01536 601331 | m: 07967 818010 | e: sales@wellroasted.coffee w: www.wellroasted.coffee Unit 23 Eckland Lodge Business Park, Desborough Road, Market Harborough, LE16 8HB

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NEW SHOP OPEN IN STAMFORD 8 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE T: 01780 757131 18 Belvoir Street, Leicester LE1 6QH T: 0116 255 5372 2 The Square Market Harborough LE16 7PA T: 01858 410 395 www.denhams.co.uk 16

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HE AL T H & B E A U TY

Christmas Treats There’s nothing more luxurious than a pampering treat at Christmas time so whether you’re looking for a stocking filler or an impressive main present, Catherine Varney has the perfect option to suit all budgets

GIFTS WITH ‘OOH LA LA’: Fans of cult Parisian beauty brand Darphin will be delighted to unwrap one of the gift sets available from Beauty Defined in Market Harborough on Christmas morning. For a true taste of luxury, the Divine Anti-Ageing set features exclusive Sea Emerald to deeply nourish skin and help reveal a younger-looking complexion. Worth £193 but retailing for £155, the set contains Stimulskin Plus Divine Cream (50ml), Stimulskin Plus Divine Serum (5ml) and 8-Flower Nectar Essential Oil Elixir (4ml) and as with all Darphin products, they are presented in exquisite packaging. For budgets that don’t stretch quite that far, the Beauty Revealing set at £65 is a great option. Containing Exquisage Beauty Revealing Cream (50ml), Exquisage Beauty Revealing Serum (4ml) and Jasmine Essential Oil Elixir (4ml), these revitalising formulas enriched with the exclusive CelluVie Complex visibly help to smooth and firm skin. I’ve tried the Darphin products and they really do smell amazing and feel wonderful on your skin. Harriet from Beauty Defined let me in on the simplest way to remember how to use the products for optimum effect: “If you think of the term SOC – you’ll always remember: it’s your serum first, followed by your oil and then finish with your cream. Easy!”

GO GREEN THIS CHRISTMAS: For Christmas gifts with a conscience then look no further than Aveda haircare. For the last 8 years, the paper for their gift sets has been handcrafted in Nepal from lokta bark which has employed 5,500 people who would otherwise struggle to feed their families. Available from both Moko Hair and Spa in Market Harborough and Essence Hair and Beauty in Uppingham, the gift sets are perfect for anyone who loves the idea of going green. The ‘Gift of Pure Moisture for Hair’ (£39.50) includes a wooden paddle brush to achieve the perfect blow dry and Dry Remedy Daily Moisturising Oil which is 99% naturally derived and is a leave-in treatment containing buriti oil to leave hair feeling soft, supple and shiny, whilst controlling frizz and flyaways. And for every ‘Gift of Renewal for your Journey’ sold, Aveda have agreed to donate $1 to the Nepalese earthquake relief fund. This gift set costs £19 and comprises a travel-sized set collection of moisturising hand creams in three different aromas: travel-size hand relief™ moisturising creme in shampure™ aroma (40 ml), travelsize hand relief™ moisturising creme in rosemary mint aroma (40 ml), travel-size hand relief™ moisturising creme in beautifying aroma (40 ml) plus a miniature hand relief™ night renewal serum (3ml).

LUXURIOUS ELEMIS:

Luxury Beauty brand Elemis have put together some gorgeous gift sets this year – so take your pick from the selection at Naomi Nails & Beauty in Market Harborough. Salon manager Naomi told me: “The Voyage of Discovery is fantastic value for money at £48 as the products individually are worth £75 and the set aims to purify, hydrate and revive all skin types.” It contains the Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser (30ml), Gentle Rose Exfoliator (15ml), Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (30ml) plus the NEW British Botanicals Shower Cream and Body Cream (50ml each). If the lady in your life is a fan

of Elemis, chances are she’ll be coveting the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream which is clinically proven to reduce the depth of wrinkles, improve skin firmness, tone and hydration in 15 days. A combination of Mediterranean algae, Ginkgo Biloba which provides superior freeradical protection and precious Rose and Mimosa Absolutes, it’s the ultimate anti-ageing cream which has won 29 National Beauty Awards. So for maximum brownie points, buy her the Enriching Future Gift Set, £99 (worth £175) which contains the full size ProCollagen Marine Day Cream and full size Oxygenating Night Cream – she’ll love you forever!

u RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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HE AL T H & B E A U TY FOR THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE:

Discerning gentlemen will also appreciate an Elemis gift so pay a visit to Barnsdale Spa where they stock a full range of stylish sets for him. Ranging from the Clean Man Gift Set which costs £25 and combines a duo of cleansing products housed in a handy travel bag to the ‘Perfect Man’ gift set which will give him everything he could ever wish for! Displayed in an attractive (yet masculine) box, the set contains a soothing ice cool foaming shave gel, two hydrating eye masks, aching muscle super bath soak and radiance-reviving Pro-Collagen Marine Cream for Men to leave him with a refreshed, replenished complexion.

HAIR-RAISING GIFTS:

If you’ve got a friend who is constantly looking for the next best thing for their hair, then head down to Heady Candy in Market Harborough where they stock the System Professional range of products. Salon manager Leah is offering two great gift sets this Christmas that won’t break the bank: The Luxe Oil gift set costs £33.50 and contains Keratin Protect shampoo and conditioner plus a Luxe Oil Elixir which uses lightweight transform technologies that benefit hair inside and out, while protecting the keratin, to leave a light and smooth feeling to the hair. Ladies with coloured hair will appreciate the Color Save Duo Gift Set at £29.99 containing shampoo and conditioner which continuously protects against colour fade whilst giving hair intense colour brilliance. For advice on dry, winter-ravaged hair, pop into Thomas Hair Salon in The Maltings, Oakham where they are offering a free intense conditioner with every Thomas shampoo purchased throughout December. And for the ideal stocking filler, pick up one of the little gift sets containing a shampoo, conditioner and either a body lotion or scented soap for the fabulous price of £9.99.

Re-Nu Beauty Salon, Melton Mowbray This family-run business was established in 2006 in Melton Mowbray by salon owner Jo Haywood and is nestled amongst the historic buildings of Church Street. Jo told me: “Parts of the building date back several hundred years and this quaint cobbled street gives the character to the business we really wanted and gave us the opportunity to expand in retail sales.” The salon initially worked with Guinot as their leading brand and quickly established a loyal client base which enabled them to move to the current central location boasting four treatment rooms, a reception area and a small team of experienced therapists offering a comprehensive range of beauty treatments, sports therapies and holistic treatments. Jo added: “We have recently introduced Clarins products to our treatment list and we are now proud to work with two internationally acclaimed leading brands exclusive to this area that complement each other allowing us to offer both the traditional and electrical facials; we’ve found the Guinot hydradermie lift is particularly popular. Our clients can now achieve the ultimate skincare solution with free skincare consultations and the Clarins range to sample in our reception area. We also offer an attractive loyalty scheme for Clarins customers - when purchasing the retail products you can accumulate treatment time for that special pampering treat.” If you fancy treating yourself in December, book yourself in for a Winter Warmer package which costs £40 and comprises Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage and a taster facial using either Clarins or Guinot. Plus get your fingers and toes in tip-top condition with a Shellac manicure and Revival Pedicure for the fabulous price of £43. If you’re after the perfect Christmas gift, you won’t be disappointed either - buy £20.00 worth of vouchers and receive a £5.00 voucher FREE or opt for one of the Clarins gift boxes, personally put together and then elegantly wrapped by the salon team, which will make a stunning gift.

DIRECTORY: ReNu Beauty Salon, St. Mary’s Chambers, 16 Church Street, Melton Mowbray, Tel: 01664 564240, www.renubeauty.com Essence Hair and Beauty, 7 Market Place, Uppingham, LE15 9QH Tel: 01572 822715 Head Candy, 26 Church Street, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 464395, www.headcandy-mh.com Naomi Nails and Beauty, 14-16 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, LE16 9BP, Tel: 01858 657001 Moko Salon & Spa, 2 Church Street, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 432525, www.mokohair.co.uk Thomas Hairdressing, The Maltings, 15 Mill Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 756561 and High Street, Melton Mowbray, www.thomashairdressing.co.uk Barnsdale Spa, Oakham, Rutland, Tel: 01572771313, www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk Beauty Defined, 3 Union Wharf, Leicester Road, Market Harborough, LE16 7UW, Tel: 01858 288242, www.beauty-defined.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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Is it time to re-discover your hearing?

Missing the odd word during the conversation? Having to turn the TV up? If these situations sound familiar you may benefit from a free hearing assessment. Healthy Hearing are your local hearing experts. With many years of experience we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive hearing healthcare service and finding the best solutions for your needs. Call us for: • Free expert hearing advice • Free lifestyle hearing assessments • Free trials of the latest digital hearing aid technology • Home visits available

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01572 759555 Oakham Hearing Centre, 17b Gaol Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AQ

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Results Making the National Headlinesâ&#x20AC;Ś

3D- Lipo.

The Latest technology in body coutouring.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR Just under 4 Years ago myself along with a fresh faced and very shy new starter named Natalie Durrant, started out in a four section salon in a small court yard in Oakham. We had no staff room, no kitchen and importantly no clients. Over the past few years we have been fortunate enough to be welcomed and embraced by the people of Oakham and the surrounding area. We count ourselves lucky that we still maintain clients that were there the very first day we opened. The team and salons have now grown and I wanted to use this opportunity to thank anyone and everyone that has ever used a THOMAS salon and to all my staff including the aforementioned Miss Durrant, who is still my hardest working stylist, for helping me build my dreams.

Using cryolipolysis (fat freezing), cavitation (ultrasound technology) and RF (radio frequency techniques) 3D-Lipo is a powerful new dimension in permanent non-surgical fat removal, cellulite treatment and skin tightening for face and body.

Treatment is pain-free with no down time, and with immediate results.

EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. For more information please visit our website or contact us:

www.chaelis.co.uk - info@chaelis.co.uk - 01832 733811 Sten Beren, Lowick, Kettering, Northants. NN14 3BH

I hope along the way we have made people smile and created some amazing hair. I look forward to 2016 and all that it brings. So from all of us here and across the salons I want to wish all our customers past and present a MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR. I look forward to seeing you soon

Thomas

We are now recruiting qualified staff across our salons. For more information please email the address below.

Oakham, 16-17 The Maltings 01572 756561 Melton Mowbray, 2 High Street 01664 566812 Loughborough, 13-14 Churchgate 01509 211010 Email: thomas@thomashairdressing.co.uk

www.thomashairdressing.co.uk

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Advertisement Feature

A Christmas cracker of delights from the experts at Equilibrium Christmas, as they say, is the most wonderful time of the year, but it can bring with it a certain degree of stress. Finding the right gift can be hard so why not head over to Equilibrium where their team of experts can offer the helping hand you need. With over 10 years of experience in beauty and spa treatments you can trust their knowledge and skill when it comes to finding the right product, for the right person, at the right price.

his Christmas they have some amazing offers on Thalgo Box Sets - renowned for their outstanding value and beautiful presentation. Highlights include: • Source Marine (Hydrating) £45 (worth £97) • Collagen (Anti-Ageing 25+) £58 (worth £105) • Silicium (Anti-Ageing 45+) £75 (worth £157) • ThalgoMen (Energising Skincare) £32 (worth £45) • Indocéane (Spa Ritual body care) £35 (worth £60)

FESTIVE SEASON = PARTY SEASON Christmas is THE party season so it’s important to feel confident and look great. But if you’re feeling a little more shabby than shimmy in your LBD, you might want to consider trying the Lipofirm Plus inch loss treatment. And while you’re thinking about getting in the party mood, make sure you book early to secure the Holy Trinity of party preparations - gel nails, spray tan and sculpted eyebrows! Equilibrium have everything all under one roof to make sure you sparkle. ENJOY SOME CHRISTMAS SPIRIT! On Thursday 3rd and 10th of December 9am 9pm Equilibrium will be offering a whole host of special promotions. So pop in and enjoy mince pies while you receive some buying advice, set up your “wish list” and maybe even pick up a treat for yourself. Here’s to looking and feeling great this festive season!

• Call Equilibrium now and start to feel a difference. Equilibrium, 7 St. Paul’s Street, Stamford. Lincs. PE9 2BE. Tel: 01780 757579 Email: info@equilibriumstamford.co.uk Website: www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk Opening Hours Mon - 9am – 5:30pm, Tues - 9am – 7pm, Weds - 9am – 5:30pm, Thurs - 9am – 9pm, Fri - 9am – 5:30pm, Sat - 9am – 5pm, Sun - CLOSED equilibriumstamford @equilibriumspa

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FESTIVE TIMES AT THE MARQUESS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Come and join us for your festive party and choose from our delicious A La Carte menu specially devised for this season. Two Courses £18.50 | Three Courses £23.50

SET FESTIVE LUNCH

From 1st December to 23rd Dec we will be offering a set lunch Monday to Saturday in our A La Carte restaurant Traditional Roast Turkey served with Seasonal Accompaniments Pumpkin & Stilton Kiev, Wild Mushroom & Spinach followed by Christmas Pudding Parfait, Cinnamon Poached Fruits, Vanilla Ice Cream Coffee & Mincemeat Parcels

NEW YEARS CELEBRATIONS Dinner Dance, £79.50pp Glass of Prosecco on arrival Inverawe Smoked Salmon Bellinis, Caviar Crème Fraiche Fillet of Beef Wellington, Fondant Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables Lemon Tart, Lime Curd Ice Cream, Passion Fruit & Mango Salsa Chocolate Orange Coffee Music & Dancing *vegetarian option available

CANAPÉ PARTY, £39.50PP Glass of Prosecco on Arrival Selection of Substantial Canapés Music & Dancing For more information or to make a reservation please contact us at

52 Main Street, Lyddington, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9LT • Tel: 01572 822 477 email: info@marquessexeter.co.uk www.marquessexeter.co.uk 22

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SEAN HOP E C O O K S

A mouthwatering Christmas

Two fantastic festive recipes from The Olive Branch’s head chef Sean Hope…

hristmas isn’t the quietest time if you’re a chef! In fact, by the time January 1 arrives, the idea of putting your feet up somewhere sunny several thousand miles away is a fairly appealing thought, as no doubt it is for most of us. My usual Christmas day goes something like this: after an early rise I head over to The Olive Branch for an 8.30am start; I cook my team a good old fashioned full English fryup and share a glass of Buck’s Fizz or two; lunch service starts at noon and runs till 3pm; finally, when all guests have left we’ll tidy up ready for a busy Boxing Day. So it’s definitely a hectic time, but it’s also a fun, warm and exciting time, and certainly one that’s filled with wonderful food and drink. Here are a couple of recipes – one classically, boozily Christmassy and the other much fresher tasting and lighter, which means it makes a great starter. Have a delicious Christmas and I hope to cook for you at The Olive Branch soon!

Pan-Seared Red Mullet & Beetroot Escabeche SERVES 4 • Beetroot escabeche • 150ml olive oil • 100ml sherry vinegar • 1 onion, thinly sliced • Zest of half an orange, finely shredded • 1 beetroot, finely shredded • 1 carrot, finely sliced • 1 sprig thyme • 1 bay leaf • 5 pink peppercorns • 1 sprig rosemary • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 tbsp chopped coriander HORSERADISH CREAM • 150ml double cream • 1 tablespoon horseradish relish • Juice of half a lemon • Pinch of salt and pepper SEARED MULLET • 2 red mullet, gutted, filleted and pin-boned

BEETROOT ESCABECHE 1. Sweat off all the ingredients except the coriander in the olive oil until soft (about five minutes). 2. Allow to cool before adding the chopped coriander, then chill for a couple of hours before serving. HORSERADISH CREAM 1. Whip the cream with lemon juice and seasoning till peaked. 2. Gently fold in horseradish and chill. PAN-SEARED MULLET 1. In a hot pan, add a little rapeseed oil. Score the fillets on the skin side with a sharp knife, then lay skin-side down and pan-fry for two minutes. 2. Season the fish with a little salt and pepper, flip the fillets over to finish the cooking and remove from the heat. 3. Add a squeeze of lemon and serve.

Guinness, Rum & Barley Wine Christmas Cake SERVES 10 • 110g suet • 50g self-raising flour • 110g breadcrumbs • 1 tsp mixed spice • 1 pinch nutmeg • 1 pinch cinnamon • 225g dark brown sugar • 110g sultanas • 25g mixed peel • 25g chopped almonds • 1 large dessert apple • Zest of half an orange • Zest of half a lemon • 2 eggs, beaten • 125ml Guinness • 125 ml rum • Quarter of a can of barley wine 1. Start the day before you want to steam the pudding. Mix all the dry ingredients, including the suet, in a large mixing bowl. 2. Mix in liquid ingredients. The mixture should have a fairly sloppy consistency. Cover. Leave overnight. 3. Pack mixture into a lightly greased pudding basin, cover with two sheets of baking parchment and a sheet of foil. Tie with string. Prepare a steamer and steam for four hours. You can eat now or cool and store for up to three months in a cool, dark place, re-steaming for two hours before serving. 4. Serve with custard or brandy butter.

PASSIONATE ABOUT GOOD FOOD? If you are passionate about local food and drink then you might like to join Great Food Club. • Sign up at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk, free of charge. RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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B RI N GI N G L O CA L FO O D TO LI FE

Take off!

Rutland-based foodie giftware outfit Paper Plane is destined to fly high, says Matt Wright

OOKING through the work of Paper Plane, it’s easy to see where many of their influences come from. The Rutland-based giftware company, run by designer Laura Harvey with partner Jack Thorpe, clearly has a strong love of local food and drink, something reflected in many of their cards, mugs and prints. Food and drink feature prominently in many of their designs, including one of their newest products – an A2 poster that’s a mix of cookbook and kitchen décor, optimistically titled ‘How To Cook Everything’. Founder Laura says: “We wanted to create a decorative item that was also practical. Jack’s a keen cook, but is always checking his phone, or a recipe book, when he wants to double-check quantities in recipes – like how many eggs in a pancake batter – so we came up with the How To Cook Everything poster. The idea is that it sits on your wall, looking nice, adding a bit of colour, but when you need to jog your memory it’s there for you – at a glance.” The poster has been creating a buzz on social media and covers everything from meat roasting times and egg boiling times, to stock recipes and measurement conversions. Other aspects of the couple’s life are represented in Laura’s designs – their raised-bed veg plot inspired a set of four watercolour-effect prints. And a thirst for gin, beer and prosecco comes through in a set of popular Christmas cards, prints and a new range of mugs. Jack says: “There are clearly lots of gin and prosecco fans out there – our best-selling mugs are the ones that mention those drinks. We try to add a bit of humour to most of our products – we want them to be the kind of gifts you’d love to give or receive, or even just share with your friends on social media. “We sell on notonthehighstreet.com and when they shared our There’s Too Much Tea In My Gin mug on their Facebook page it was one for their most popular posts all year.” Laura adds: “The prosecco version of that mug has been a big hit, too. There’s definitely been a big movement towards prosecco in the last couple of years – I’ve been known to enjoy a glass or two myself in The Tobie Norris and the Stamford Wine Bar. We love the garden at the wine bar – it’s our favourite place to spend a summer’s evening.” Paper Plane has been in business for just over a year, and was borne out of the pair’s desire to create cards and gifts blending humour and design. Laura says: “We both had full-time jobs (Laura is a magazine designer and Jack sub-editor) but wanted a way to express our creativity in another medium. We both love a good greetings card – so that seemed the natural

next step. That’s when Paper Plane was born. We started with Christmas cards in 2014 and it grew from there. We now have 120 products for sale online and stockists around the country.” Jack adds: “That said, we’re still looking for a new Stamford stockist since our last one closed down, so we’d love to hear from anyone who thinks we’d fit in with their brand.” Paper Plane’s work has been sold around the world – a butcher’s shop in Australia has PP’s Dinosaur Butcher’s Cut prints on display – and a selection of prints form part of the set in US celebrity chef Kelsey Nixon’s new Cooking Channel series. Laura says: “It still makes us smile every time someone places an order with us. It’s a great feeling to know our work is on display in homes around the world – and has been used to mark momentous occasions in people’s lives. That’s what we love most about out job.”

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Paper Plane’s favourite local producers and places to eat The Tobie Norris, Stamford Absolutely our favourite pub. The building itself is beautiful. The beers are good and the pizzas can’t be beaten. We’re big fans of its sister pub The Lord Nelson in Oakham, too.

The Cosy Club, Stamford We’ve been big admirers since day one – especially the tapas selection. When it’s on form, we think you’d struggle to find a tastier dinner in Stamford. The Olive Branch, Clipsham The best. For a special occasion it really takes some beating. Exceptional service and food that never disappoints. We were thrilled to be asked to design their Christmas card last year. The Fine Food Store, Stamford In summer, breakfast in the secret garden is a real pleasure, and the tapas evenings are a hidden gem in Stamford’s food scene. The Silver Fish Bar, Uppingham The best fish and chips around – the homemade fishcakes take some beating. Sloeberry Spirits, Cold Overton A must for any sloe gin lover – the bottles are really pretty too, so make a great Christmas present. Hambleton Bakery If you’ve never had a Rutland Pippin – a pastry-encrusted ball of apple, Stilton and sausagemeat - you’re missing out. The sticky Pecan Bun is a naughty treat, too.

About the writer

Matt Wright founded and runs Greatfoodclub.co.uk, a Leicestershire-based website that celebrates and promotes local food and drink. His Great Food Club Handbook 2016 is out now

Join Great Food Club – free of charge – and discover the very best local food and drink Members can enjoy special offers at over 220 handpicked independent local pubs, restaurants, producers and farm shops www.greatfooodclub.co.uk/join

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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BOOKING NOW!

MEMORABLE CUISINE FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY

Burns Night ~ January 2016 ~

We are delighted to announce the details of our 2016 Burns Night on Saturday 23rd January 2016. ~ £28.00 per person to include... 4 course meal, a traditional piper, readings of Robert Burns’ poems and Celidh dancing. ~ Special accommodation rates available to anyone attending Burns’ Night £75.00 B&B based on 2 people sharing a double or twin room. Single rooms available for £65.00 B&B

DELICIOUS FOOD BEAUTIFULLY SERVED

“In control and totally flexible. Food was utterly delicious, staff charming, no hesitation in recommending you ” Ali Crossley

• Fully tailor-made and refined menu • Advance menu tasting • Fixed price quotation • Site visit included • Pay bar and Bar staff available • Supply your own wine – no corkage charges

Call Sarah on 01572 747909 or 07970 576882 The Firs, 5 Barrowden Road, Morcott, Rutland, LE15 9DQ e-mail sarah@rutlandgourmet.co.uk

Now taking bookings for Christmas

JANUARY 2016 Special Lunch Offers

Monday-Friday Lunch Game casserole with a glass of wine. £10.00 per person

Friday Lunch Beer battered fish with chips and mushy peas with a glass of wine. £10.00 per person

Please call for details or visit www.barnsdalelodge.com

Country Inn and Restaurant A warm welcome is assured at our quintessential old English county pub, bringing you the best of British home cooked meals and a choice of well kept Real Ales.

Why not join us for Sunday Lunch? Choice of 3 roasts all served with the traditional trimmings £9.95 for one course up to £15.95 for three courses Set 3 course menu £15.95 a head Served Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 5.30pm.

Curry Night

1st Thursday of every month. Two course menu with selection of starters, followed by three homemade curries £10.95 a head

Friday Lunchtime Special

2 Portions of Cod, Chips and Mushy Peas for £10

The Avenue, Rutland Water, Nr Oakham, Rutland LE15 8AH Tel: 01572 724678 enquiries@barnsdalelodge.co.uk

Tue, Wed, Thur 12pm – 11pm (Food 12pm – 2.30pm/6.30pm – 9.30pm) Fri, Sat 12pm – 12am (Food 12pm – 2.30pm/6.30pm – 9.30pm) Sun 12pm – 6pm (Food 12.30pm – 3pm).Closed Mondays

www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk

14 Arnhill Road, Gretton | Northants, NN17 3DN

LAST ORDERS WILL BE TAKEN 30 MINUTES BEFORE FOOD IS STOPPED SERVING

Tel: 01536 770268 www.thehattonarms.com

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Christmas Parties at Hambleton Hall ‘The Study’ – one of Hambleton’s fabulous private dining rooms is perfect for parties of 8 – 16 guests. Special Limited Choice Menu on a Sunday to Thursday. £55.00 per person. One of Britain’s finest country house hotels, overlooking Rutland Water, providing the most wonderful setting for a Christmas Party. Log fires, beautiful Christmas tree and Christmas decorations and at the end of the evening lovely bedrooms to rest your weary head.

Why not stay the night?

If you would like to stay after your Christmas Party and book two or more bedrooms on a Sunday to Thursday, we are offering a special rate of £230.00 per night, based on 2 people sharing one of our Standard double bedrooms, including full Hambleton breakfast & vat.

Pan fried Red Mullet with citrus cous cous or Terrine of Beetroot with horseradish sorbet or Ballotine of Ham Hock & foie gras with piccalilli *** Roast Pheasant Breast with fondant vegetables & thyme jus or Fillet of Dorade with bouillabaisse sauce or Loin & Breast of Lamb with pepper stew & dumplings *** Dark Chocolate Tart with orange sorbet or Prune & Armagnac Soufflé or Taste of Apple & Blackberry Coffee & homemade Chocolates *** All menus are subject to a discretionary service charge of 12.5%

HAMBLETON OAKHAM RUTLAND LE15 8TH T: 01572 756991 E: hotel@hambletonhall.com W: www.hambletonhall.com

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D Qu EC o EM fo te c BE r F od R RE e OF E d UF FE eli W1 R ve 21 ry 5 *

RUTLAND’S PREMIER ON-LINE HAMPER & GIFT BUSINESS Based in the heart of Rutland, Under Fine Wraps has been founded by lovers of high quality products, food and wine. We work closely with like-minded producers who have a passion for their ﬁeld and provide superior products using only the best ingredients and materials.

Visit our website to see our exclusive range of delicious hampers and delightful gifts – the perfect gift for family, friends and businesses alike

Christmas Hampers & Gifts

Luxury Gifts For Special Occasions

Beautifully Gift-Wrapped With Personalised Message Supporters Of British Products

To claim our FREE delivery oﬀer throughout December, visit our website www.underﬁnewraps.co.uk quoting code UFW1215 at checkout Christmas deliveries are available from 23rd November until 18th December 2015

*mainland UK only

Call us on 0333 2000190 / Email: sales@underﬁnewraps.co.uk

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F O OD & DRI N K

Under Fine Wraps Under Fine Wraps is a family run business based in the heart of Rutland. Founded by lovers of quality products, food and wine, they work closely with like-minded producers who have a passion for their field and who make high quality products using only the best ingredients and materials. See their exclusive range of luxury hampers and delightful gifts at www.underfinewraps.co.uk. Louise Steel, wine expert, writes: Chateauneuf du Pape, Reserve des Argentiers 2013 This region takes its name from Chateau of the Pope, the region located in Avignon, France. Seven successive Popes resided here during 1309 to 1377. To this day, the wines produced here are rich and full-bodied. The main grape varieties are a blend between Syrah and Grenanche. Blackberry fruits, soft tannins and lingering dark fruit flavours produce a very classy wine for those who like the fuller flavours!

Two Rivers Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand Two Rivers takes it name from the iconic rivers that feed the wine growing heart of Marlborough’s renowned Wairau and Awatere Valleys. Wairau is an exceptional vineyard for white wines and the Awatere is excellent for growing Pinot Noir. The Sauvignon is abundant with ripe tropical fruits and exotic gooseberry whilst the Pinot has dried herb aromas with wild red fruits and a gentle earthy spice. This Pinot has cherry flavours and a silky blend of power and finesse.

LARE Underwood is at the heart of and founder of this new business. A lady who very much cares about the values of local business and the quality service she can offer to her customers. Under Fine Wraps was launched by invitation only during October at The White Hart, Ufford where the hampers, gifts, fine foods and drinks were tasted and showcased for guests to enjoy and sample. Clare asked if I would be a guest speaker at the soft launch event to talk guests through some of the wine ranges available through Under Fine Wraps. I was delighted to support the event and we decided I should try to demystify the world of wine for the audience! My background is 20 years in the wine industry having held a senior post in Champagne Lanson working in Bordeaux and currently proud to work for the Chileans at the Concha y Toro UK office. Wine has become part of the UK lifestyle and many of us know what we like but don’t know why. We also have a price point in our minds before we shop on how much we are prepared to spend. Occasion can often dictate our path to purchase too. The subject of wine can be a minefield to many and carries with it much intimidation and nerves of getting the choice right! The purchase is simple as there is no right or wrong in which wines or champagne you choose as gifts but I can assure you that the Under Fine Wraps wine selection is first class for quality versus budget. All of the wines we are featuring have wide appeal and, I believe, will be a great accompaniment to your festive celebrations.

Fabiano Castello Prosecco 11.5% ABV Fabiano is the wine producer located in the Veneto region of Northern Italy, Castello is the brand name given to the sparkling wine and Prosecco the grape variety (sometimes labelled as Glera if bottled outside of this famous Prosecco region). Lighter in style than that of Champagne and lower in alcohol by 1 degree which is always helpful if one is having more than a glass or two! Residual sugars left behind in this wine is 12g which gives a very slightly sweeter style to that of Champagne but still classified as dry. Pears are one of the main fruits evident in the taste of this fizz, very acceptable and affordable for those Champagne Ayala Brut Majeur 12.5% ABV larger gatherings. This exquisite Champagne has only 7 grams of residual sugar (residual sugars are the natural sugars from the grapes left behind after fermentation). Always a good choice for the ladies and gents who may be watching their waistline as the festivities Chablis 1er Cru Montmain Domaine begin! Brut on the label simply means dry. Gerard Tremblay 2012 It is non-vintage Champagne which means This is one of the more sought after the grapes (a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot wines of the Chablis Region in Burgundy, Noir & Pinot Meunier in this case) have been France made from the world famous selected from various harvests from different Chardonnay grape. Montmain is one of years. It has elegant citrus flavours of white the premier cru vineyard sites of the fruits with a delicate refreshing finish and an Chablis area. An elegant structure and endless supply of bubbles. steely finesse, floral notes and lemon flavours with a mineral finish. All fabulous examples of their class and category, sure to delight any recipient of an Under Fine Wrap’s luxury gift this season and beyond. To find out more, visit their website at www.underfinewraps.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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Christmas Goodies available from December

Our Christmas range will include a selection of delicious goodies, Christmas Puddings, Mince Pies, Fruit & Savoury Tarts, Cranberry & White Chocolate Cookies, Chocolate Brownies, Stilton & Celery Scones, Rutland Pippins, all made with the finest ingredients and full of flavour.

Finest draught beer at home, direct from the brewery. Bag in Box, or a 72 pint cask of your favourite tipple. 10 Litre ( Approx 17½ Pnts ) from £34.00 20 Litre ( Approx 35 Pnts ) from £55.00 72 Pint Cask from £94.00

Also a great range of gift ideas 3 and 6 bottle gift packs Giant 2 litre bottles 5 litre mini kegs

Shops: Exton Bakery, Market Harborough, Oakham,

Bottles of ‘Fox’ premium lager Personalised bottle gift packs Brewery tour vouchers

Stamford & West Bridgford

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CHRISTMAS CHEER! Our Christmas Spiced Vodka is available in 20cl & 70cl bottles from local farm and wine shops or online at

www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk

Produced in the heart of Market Harborough Like facebook.com/twobirdsspirits Follow @twobirdsspirits

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F ASHI ON

One, Two, Three ...Come on Girls! For this month’s Rutland fashion pages, Abigail Richardson gets a little help from her friends as Vanessa takes a well-earned break… NICOLA’S concept for her interior’s design shoot at Swans of Oakham was 20s and 30s and so I decided to follow suit – well what is more elegant than vintage glamour for a Christmas party?

Nicky wears Rabens Saloner Textured ‘Spot Dress’, £157, Textured Collar, £28 - Vanilla. Silver Stilettos from Coco, £105.

Lisa wears Nümph Gold Shimmer Tunic Dress, £35 - Duo. Gold Stilettos, £105 from Duo.

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Lisa wears Black Trousers by Cream, £59.99, Fransa Black and Silver Trimmed Top, 49.99, Long Silver and Pearl Necklace by Nour, £59.99 and is holding Olga Berg Silver Clutch, £49 – all from Duo. Silver Stilettos again from Coco, £105. Nicky wears Fransa Black Velvet Dress, £49.99, Nour of London Tassel Necklace, £79.99 – Duo. Gold Stiletto Shoes, £105 – Coco. RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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F ASHI ON

Nicky wears Vintage Pleated Dress by Cream, £99.99, Ruby and Ed Kodiak Shrug, £62.99, Silver Diamanté Choker by Nour, £27.99, (Teal Hat by Powder on the cover, £42.99) – all from Duo. Shoes, £105 - Coco.

Nicky wears Oui Lace Dress, £159 – Cavells.

Lisa wears Dream Jeans, £140, Intown ‘Soft B’ Top, £60, Intown Vest, £39 – all from Vanilla.

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Lisa wears Lace Dress by Cream, £79.99, Ruby and Ed Arctic Fox Neck Cuff, £42.99, Powder Grey Cloche Hat, £42.99, Olga Berg Rose Gold Clutch, £49 – all from Duo.

Nicky wears Stills’ Gold Top, £199.95, Leather Look Mac Trousers, £130 Vanilla. Shoes from Coco £105.

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Lisa wears Twin Set Lace Flounce Dress with matching Lace Embroidered Top, for both £249, Elia B Spectator Brogue in Metallic Bronze, £159 – Cavells.

All furniture, fittings, lamps, clocks and decor from Swans of Oakham - 76 High Street, Oakham, LE15 6AS, www.swansofoakham.co.uk STOCKISTS Duo, Oakham, Tel: 01572 722116, www.duoboutique.co.uk Coco Shoes, Oakham, Tel: 01572 757646, www.cocooakham.co.uk Cavells, Oakham, Tel: 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk Vanilla, Oakham, Tel: 01572 757577, www.vanillaboutique.co.uk WITH THANKS TO: Swans for allowing us to take over their shop for days, Dan from Will Wheelwright Hair for his incredible professionalism and happy demeanour, makeup artist and wedding specialist, Paula Tennant, Tel: 07813 703155, Pam from Duo for her ultra-efficient wardrobe skills, our beautiful models Lisa and Nicky – not only stunning but so lovely to work with, and, as ever, our fab photographer, Elli Dean, Tel: 07932055548, www.ellideanphotography.co.uk.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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r e t n i W r o f Wrap up at

16 Mill Street • Oakham • Rutland • LE15 6EA • www.cavells.co.uk

HAIR

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN HAIRDRESSING Simon Cawthorne has been providing beautifully crafted haircuts and creative colour services to clients for three decades. We believe in better. Complimentary consultations are always available.

23A Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6EA

Telephone: 01572 722774 www.simoncawthorne.com

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DESI G N I NT E R I O R S

A Christmas Down(ton)

at Swans

Nicola Hardy gets into the festive spirit in one of our most glamourous outlets Photos: Elli Dean, Tel: 07932 055548, www.ellideanphotography.co.uk.

or this year’s ‘Christmas Ideas feature’ we turned my computer generated Christmas designs into reality. Tom Scott of Swans of Oakham lent us his beautiful antique emporium to decorate as well as hosting a festive evening wear fashion shoot (see pages 32-36). Downton Abbey was my inspiration - drawing from the tasteful opulent presentation of the 20s and 30s. For the look, I combined a variety of metallic colours with frosted greenery and feathery textures. The golds and coppers exude warmth and restrained elegance whilst the frosted greenery added a touch of cool glamour. To keep on trend I added feathers, silk flowers and ribbon. I found all I needed from local stores who kindly let me borrow the necessary components. I then spent an enjoyable afternoon recreating my sketches.

Otters Deli provided a sumptuous selection of canapés; perfect for your Christmas Eve party served here on an antique silver plated tray from Swans - £25.

Pictured here is my original design (drawn on a MAC) and also my ideal (albeit virtual) Christmas tree to complement the look.

From Concept to Reality: • THE TABLE: French mahogany extending dining table Swans - £1,250 3 ‘Firenze’ candlesticks - Elizabeth Stanhope - 2 medium - £24, 1 large £32 ‘Gerald’ gold Xmas tree candles - ES - £16.99, Gold plates - Gates Nurseries - £2.99 Silver grey place settings - Fords - £1.99, Star fabric napkins - Fords - £12.99 for 4 Pinecone sage decor - GN - £3.49, Crackers GN - Tom Smith Deluxe - £24.99 Wine glasses - Fords £30 for 6, Champagne flutes - £30 for 6

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• THE VICTORIAN MANTLEPIECE: Pair of ornate Stiffel vine lamps, fully restored Swans - £750 ‘Navi Snow’ Christmas trees - ES - £18.99 Pinecone sage decor - GN - £5.99 ‘Ruzio’ gold/brown pinecone hangers - £9.99 Mirrored stars and hearts - Fords - £2.99

• ADDITIONAL IDEAS: French gilt mirror - Swans - £1,950 Decoris gold antique stag - GN - £59.99 1 Heaven sends branch - £24.99, 3 artificial images branch - £3.49 each, 3 blossom sage decor - £4.49 each - all from Gates Nurseries.

Regency oval gilt mirror with twin branch candelabra - Swans - £1,350 Brass candlesticks - Swans - £85 Large white ceramic candlesticks - ES - £39 ‘Adagio’ gold lantern - ES - £45 Large feathers, in groups of 3 - ES - £10.99

Thank you to Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors, Gates Nurseries and Fords of Oakham for lending me the gorgeous decorations and tableware and to Otters for the delicious canapés. • Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors. www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk. 27 Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA. Tel: 01572 444205 • Gates Nurseries. www.gatesnurseries.co.uk 1 Somerby Road, Oakham LE15 7QB. Tel: 01664 454309 • Fords of Oakham. www.fordsofoakham.co.uk 8 Church Street, Oakham LE15 6AA. Tel: 01572 722654 • Otters. www.ottersfinefoods.co.uk 19 Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA. Tel: 01572 756481 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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Opening soon Spire Healthcare outreach clinic at Archway House Natural Health Centre, Market Harborough Spire Leicester Hospital now offering private healthcare services in Market Harborough. We offer consultations with: • Orthopaedic Consultants • Cosmetic Surgeons • Pain Management Consultants • Rheumatologists • Physiotherapists All tests, treatment and surgery are provided at Spire Leicester Hospital at your convenience.

10% off

physiotherapy treatment on presentation of this voucher at: Spire Leicester Hospital Spire at Stamford Spire at Market Harborough For information about our Physiotherapy services or to book a Physiotherapy appointment please call: 0116 265 3653 Voucher valid until September 2016 Terms and conditions apply.

For more information call

0116 265 3021

info@spireleicester.com www.spireleicester.com 40Archway House Natural Health Centre, Lubenham Hill, Market

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SH OP S & SE R V I CE S MA R K E T H A R B O R O U G H

HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS What’s new in Market Harborough?

Spire Leicester Hospital opens clinic in Market Harborough Based within Archway House Natural Health Centre, the Spire Market Harborough Clinic offers fast and local access to private healthcare services whether you have private medical insurance or choose to pay for treatment yourself

The Market Harborough facility If you live in Market Harborough or the surrounding area, you will soon be able to take advantage of a range of clinical services, including physiotherapy, a Spine Pain Clinic and private appointments with specialist Orthopaedic, Pain Management, Cosmetic and General consultants. You can book an appointment to see a Spire consultant at Archway House Natural Health Centre for both new and follow up appointments, with any diagnostic tests, major investigations or treatment that might be required then carried out at Spire Leicester Hospital. This gives you the huge advantage of minimising the amount of travel you will have to do, and being able to have all initial consultations and follow-up services – physio’ for example - on your doorstep.

Spine Pain Clinic If you suffer from back pain, neck pain or both, then the Spine Pain Clinic might be just the thing for you. More than four out of five of us will suffer from back pain at some stage in our lives, with one in five consulting their GP about it. For many people spinal pain may settle down over a period of time, however, when it doesn’t, carrying on with normal day to day activity can be a real challenge. In many cases simply getting an expert diagnosis can prove difficult, which is why Spire Leicester have set up a Spine Clinic as one of the services they offer in Market Harborough. The service provides a specialised diagnostic triage service to assess spinal conditions and decide how best they should be managed. You can self-refer for both the Spine pain Clinic and for fast access to see a chartered physiotherapist for any injury concerns,

aches or pains. Spire Leicester Hospital offers a comprehensive range of clinical services and medical and surgical specialties, including paediatrics, working with some of the country’s most experienced consultant surgeons and other specialists to deliver tailored, personalised care. Hospital facilities include four operating theatres, a dedicated Chemotherapy and Daycare suite and on-site diagnostic Cardiology facilities. With 54 single private rooms and 20 consulting rooms, you can be seen quickly and treated at a time to suit you. Spire Leicester Hospital’s on-site diagnostic imaging facilities include a static 64-Multislice CT Scanner, MRI, Ultrasound, X-Ray and Mammography. • For appointments: Tel: 0116 265 3685, www.spireleicester.com

picked ‘Balancing,’ which was incredibly relaxing and oddly evocative of Christmas. Sam’s ‘Sanctuary’ ritual features a personally tailored opening and finishing sequence, involving stretches from head to toe, hot towels and a deep shoulder massage. The result? Extraordinarily smooth, dewy skin; I left the salon, and braved the school playground with no make-up – a first! And the acid test – my ten-year old son told me

that he ‘much preferred my face, it just looks nice.’ – Surely we all want to look nice? I have re-booked and booked my partner in for the ‘His’ version. Sosennah: Following the initial consultation where I said that I have bad circulation, Sam suggested including hot stones into the full body massage. The opening ritual meant I got to choose by scent from two Aveda oils, one that was purifying that had aromas of clove and fennel and an energising one that was more citrusy. I opted for the latter and once lying on the heated massage couch, I was immediately feeling my body relax and unwind. Sam worked her magic easing the tension in my back and neck muscles. She was excellent at seamlessly alternating massage with a hot stone rub, which felt like a wave of hot dripping oil in the best possible way. The result – total relaxation. • Moko 2 Church Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AA, Tel: 01858 432525

Moko Spa The much anticipated opening of the new Moko Spa took place at the end of July and it was with much excitement that Sosennah Every and Isabella Hamnet went along to sample their treatments Isabella: I opted for a ‘Perfecting Plant Peel,’ to smooth and repair my skin after the wear-and-tear of my sun-drenched summer beach holiday. From the immaculate décor of the room, in warm earthy tones, to the comforting manner of Samantha (the head beautician), my shoulders dropped about 3 inches as soon as I walked through the door. We spent a short while discussing my requirements from the facial, right through to my personality type and stress levels. So as I lay on the (heated!) bed, I felt completely secure in the knowledge that Sam would tailor my treatment specifically to my needs. With lights dimmed and eyes closed, I chose from two Aveda scents, and instantly

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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OU T AN D AB O U T

Woodlands Retreat at Hothorpe Hall Sosennah Every spends a night in the heavens…

wice I was in awe when I arrived at my Treehouse room at The Woodlands at Hothorpe Hall. The aroma of pine, the gentle noise of rustling leaves and the view of trees surrounded by open fields with a church spire in the distance is like a picture book come alive. Where is this I hear you ask…? The Woodlands is the newly opened collection of modern self-catering log cabins, lounge bar and dining room set in the grounds of Hothorpe Hall in Theddingworth, just 15 minutes from Market Harborough. I was lucky enough to stay in their pièce de resistance, the Treehouse, a standalone elevated double room with sitting room and sumptuous en-suite. Just walking up the private steps to the semi-circular decking area and seeing the views across the fields towards Theddingworth church made us reach for our cameras! Once inside, the luxurious furnishings complete with a lit electric ‘wood’ burner made for a very homely welcome. For people staying for weekend breaks, there was no feeling of being cramped as the seating area felt nicely separate from the ‘bedroom’, which was tucked into the circular part of the treehouse. Fully equipped with a two-seater sofa, a widescreen TV and Bluetooth entertainment system as well as a kitchenette and small table for breakfast, we were also pleasantly surprised to find a wine fridge! The attention to detail in the furnishings was second to none, even down to the rope detailing around the eaves and door frames. Weekend breaks are all about relaxing and the en-suite’s large enveloping bath complete with soft mood lighting surrounding the base was the perfect place for a bubble bath filled to the brim, a good novel and a glass of fizz; whilst the husband enjoys the rugby in peace and quiet with his own choice of refreshments. For dinner you can choose to pre-order from the main restaurant at Hothorpe Hall and heat up simple meals such as Shepherd’s Pie or Lamb Tagine in the microwave grill or I would highly recommend going to the Pop Up restaurant in the dining room located just a few steps away in the heart of The Woodlands collection of lodges. Sadly, we didn’t book when the Pop Up restaurant

was available but from purveying the menu, Head Chef Fraser McDonald and his team would not disappoint. My second awe-inspiring moment was when we arrived back after a local pub meal to hear the owls hooting in the trees and the stars twinkling above our idyllic hideaway, which made us want to take a walk around the Woodlands and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. After a peaceful night’s sleep we were able to tuck into a continental breakfast hamper that was left in the room for us to enjoy at a time to suit us. If you weren’t able to find babysitters for the children or wanted to go away in a group, the Woodlands has a collection of Snugs which are two double bedroom modern log cabins, complete with ensuites and a kitchenette. In addition there are six two bedroom Lodges, which can cater for larger families with two sofa beds included that would be perfect for families staying for a wedding or big event that was held in the function room. Two of these are wheelchair accessible. Each lodge has a decking area for some alfresco dining and overlooks the fields at the back of Hothorpe Hall. Inside, as much care as possible has been made to recycle the wood that was cut down to make space for the cabins, with wooden headboards, stumps smoothed to make stools, wooden key rings and more. Walking around outside, it is really commendable how the wood has all been put to good use with old tree stumps with roots sticking out at all angles turned into works of art and used logs and upturned stumps turned into picnic tables or make shift benches for a private outdoor Blessing area. If you are looking to treat a loved one to an extra special Christmas gift this year with a New Year weekend away or wish to celebrate your wedding or Anniversary, The Woodlands could be just the ticket. • For accommodation and event bookings at The Woodlands, call Tel: 01858 881500 or visit www.woodlandbreaks.co.uk or www.hothorpe. co.uk/woodlands. The Woodlands is located at Hothorpe Hall, Theddingworth, LE17 6QX.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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m ok o Salon & Spa

10% off

Upgrade your package and receive any additional salon services

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TEL: 01858 432525 www.mokohair.co.uk

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Showroom: Unit 4, Cherryholt Lane, Stamford, PE9 2EQ Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-3pm

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SK RO

BRIDGE THE

CHRISTMAS opening

From Thursday 3rd December until Wednesday 23rd December Monday to Friday

9:00am – 8:00pm

Saturday

9:00am – 7:00pm

Sunday

10:30am – 4:30pm

From Christmas Eve until Boxing Day Christmas Eve

8:00am – 5:00pm

Christmas Day

CLOSED

Boxing Day

8:00am – 7:00pm

From Sunday 27th December until Friday 1st January Sunday 27th December

10:30am – 4:30pm

Monday 28th December

9:00am – 8:00pm

Tuesday 29th December

9:00am – 8:00pm

Wednesday 30th December

9:00am – 8:00pm

New Year’s Eve

9:00am – 5:00pm

New Year’s Day

CLOSED

Free Parking after 5.30pm on Thursday & Friday

Christmassy

Over 90 shops, 15 places to eat with thousands of gift ideas. queensgate-shopping.co.uk 45

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The

Symington Building

The Symington Building, Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AG

Come and visit your new local SPAR store located in the historic Symington Building!

Our Daily Deli counter provides fresh salad, sandwiches & baguettes—perfect for lunchtime snacking!

Swan House Bakery provides freshly baked bread, pastries and rolls in store every day!

Fresh Fruit & Veg

Located just opposite the SPAR store, Insomnia Cafe Bar provides hot beverages and snacks using only the finest quality ingredients.

We provide fresh fruit and veg in store at great value helping you get your 5-a-day!

Using only the finest ingredients, COOK frozen meals taste just like they’re homemade.

Artisan Vinegars & Oils

Our range of artisan vinegars & oils complement any dish. Fill your bottle, drizzle and enjoy!

Refill your wine bottle with an enviable selection of local and international wines.

Joseph Morris Butchers

Joseph Morris butchers provide an established range of locally sourced meats including cooked hams, roast pork and turkey.

We Are Here! Store opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 7am – 9pm Sunday: 8am – 6pm SPAR.co.uk

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Coming Soon

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RE C I P E

Gingerbread Biscuits Thank you to Emily Hughes, a 17 year old student currently studying for her A levels at Arthur Mellows Village College, who has provided us with this festive recipe

ingerbread biscuits are the perfect Christmas treat, whether you hang them on your Christmas tree, enjoy them on winter walks, or wrap them in cellophane bags to give as gifts to family and friends. My recipe for gingerbread biscuits has the addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and orange juice which adds depth and warmth to the biscuits. The dough can be made in advance and frozen for up to one month, ready to bake in the oven as and when you need them, enabling you to plan ahead for the festive season to make it joyful rather than stressful. Children will love making and decorating these biscuits, so baking these makes a lovely rainy day activity too! Let imagination run wild by decorating with dried fruits, nuts and chocolate chips. INGREDIENTS: • 4tbsp honey • 1tbsp black treacle • 1tbsp golden syrup • 180g soft brown sugar • 1tbsp orange juice • 2 tbsp ground ginger • 3/4 tbsp ground cinnamon • 2tsp allspice • 2tsp nutmeg • 200g butter, roughly chopped • 500g plain flour (plus extra for dusting) • 1tsp bicarbonate of soda • Nuts, dried fruit, honey and chocolate chips for decorating (for example)

METHOD: Preheat the oven to 180’c or 160’c fan, line baking trays with greaseproof paper and leave to one side. Begin by weighing out all of the ingredients and placing the butter, honey, treacle, syrup, sugar, spices, orange juice and vanilla into a saucepan and heating gently until the sugar has dissolved and all of the ingredients have combined together. Leave the pan to one side to cool down slightly. Stir the flour and bicarbonate of soda together in a large mixing bowl, and then pour in the melted syrup mixture from the saucepan. Mix the ingredients together until combined before wrapping the dough in Clingfilm and leaving to cool in the fridge for an hour (at this point the dough can be frozen and stored for up to one month before baking). Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface before cutting out festive shapes (if you want to hang the biscuits on the Christmas tree, make a hole in the top of each biscuit using a cocktail stick). Then place the biscuits 3cm apart on the prepared baking trays, and bake for 10 minutes until just the biscuits are just setting as they will harden on cooling. This recipe makes a large quantity of biscuit dough, so if you don’t use it all at once place the remaining dough either wrapped in Clingfilm for up to a week in the fridge, or in the freezer as mentioned above. Wait until the biscuits have cooled before decorating them. I like to decorate mine with chopped nuts (but the biscuits can be decorated to suit your preferences), using honey as glue to stick the decorations onto the biscuits. These biscuits are my favourite thing to bake over the festive season; I hope you enjoy making them too! RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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D E SIGN TO SU IT YOUR TA S T E INSP IRATIO NAL, I N N OVATIV E & UN I QUE

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Stylish and Inspirational

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1 South Street Oakham LE15 6BG

(come and visit our showroom on the corner of mill street and south street)

t: 01572 724600 w: lumisonlighting.co.uk 48

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SHOP S & SE R V I C E S

UPDATES Take Comfort in Excellence F

abniki is a local company that specialises in individual, exclusive cushions. Made from designer fabrics, and with only ever 2 to 6 made per run, they are a truly unique Christmas gift idea. With a background in hotel management and an eye for detail, Nicky learned early on in her career that accessories and, in particular, cushions could change the dynamics of any room. “Changing your cushions, or adding to your accessories can be an inexpensive way of changing or modernising a look quite quickly”, she advises. Designing handmade cushions in beautiful fabrics began as a hobby but owing to their popularity, Nicky’s once pastime has become a full time vocation. The cushions are handmade in Britain by skilled artisans, only using top quality designer fabrics. Nicky has stock that can be used for special orders or can use fabric provided by the customer. The cushions are filled with the highest quality China duck with hypo-allergenic alternatives on request. Sizes available are from 14 inches up to 28. • For further information or to peruse the current designs logon to: www.fabniki.com...but don’t delay, with limited runs make sure you buy now before they are gone.

FIND FABNIKI AT STAMFORD CHRISTMAS MARKET ON SUNDAY 29TH NOVEMBER

A Change is as Good as a Rest! E

very woman (and many men) has experienced that sinking feeling when their hair just isn’t right and often they’ve no idea what to do about it. That’s when it’s time to call on the experts. We asked Simon Cawthorne for his advice: “It’s really easy to get into a rut, to always go for the same colour and stick with the same old style. That’s why our team of expert stylists and dedicated colour professionals always offer complimentary consultations - to ensure that the services we provide are matched to our clients’ expectations. It’s good to talk - we actively encourage clients to tell us how they feel and show us some pictures of how they’d like their hair to look. Our strapline is ‘we believe in better’ and each and every day, we all work to that mantra - delivering beautifully crafted haircuts and personalised colour for every client. We’re all really creative and not afraid to push the boundaries, and underpinning that is our absolute commitment to providing outstanding customer service and achieving 100% client satisfaction. We want our clients to walk out looking catwalk-ready, but we also want them to be able to recreate that just-left-the-salon look at home.” Part of the Simon Cawthorne unique experience includes a mini-masterclass where you will be shown how to best manage your hair, be given advice on what products and tips to ensure that every day is a great hair day. Says Simon, “Our clients always leave us with look that suits their style and promotes their personality, if you’re ready to ring in the New Year with a new look, pop in and see us for a chat!” • www.simoncawthorne.com

On (at) The Waterfront Christmas Cabaret Evenings at the Waterfront, Market Harborough feature a Massed choir and a cabaret of songs and sketches with a seasonal arrangement. With Musical Director, Ed Burton (of Les Miserable and Miss Saigon) on the 16th and 17th December. Enjoy a set three course meal, with the starter and main served before the performance and the dessert and coffee prior to the second half. £25 per person, 7pm start. Other festive events at The Waterfront include a Murder Mystery Night, Christmas Dinner, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve Dining and New Year’s Day. Buffet menus available on request. • Contact for more information and see menu guide: The Waterfront, Tel: 01858 434702, www.waterfrontharborough.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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Looking for better sleep? Quintessentially English Garden benches and chairs made in Rutland using cast Iron frames and Iroko wooden spars – made to last many lifetimes

For that unique Christmas present

talk to me about any animal, like the favorite pet, plant, tree or any shape cut from 2mm steel sheet to match your photo or drawing - fitted with either heavy steel feet for paths and patios or spikes to be pushed into the soil or lawn. WE MAKE: Obelisks, trellis, plant supports, window boxes, window/door canopies, signage, steel bulrush – you commission it - we can make it here in Rutland with love and care.

Joyous Happy Christmas to all www.Gardenforge.co.uk

S N ho NE O w W W ro O om PE N

E: sortemout@gmail.com T: 07885 860 440

• More space • More choice • More for your money Discover an even wider range of cosy carpets, long-lasting laminates, luxury vinyls, designer floors and wooden floors, all at great prices.

Come and see us soon.

Our Footprint just got bigger!

“From start to finish the service and advice were excellent. Your fitters are a credit to you and it is so refreshing to have such good quality customer care.” MRS NEAL

FREE CAR PARKING OUTSIDE OUR STORE Open: Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 4pm | Station Approach, Oakham, Rutland

01572 759752 | www.barefoot-flooring.biz 50

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SHOP S & SE R V I C E S

UPDATES Old House Gallery T

he Old House Gallery owned and run by born and bred Rutlander Richard Clarke, is a little gem that has been tucked away in the corner of Oakham’s Market Place for 38 years. It is Oakham’s oldest established gallery and is an absolute treasure trove of unique work from both artists and makers alike. Only selling original work, the gallery is a very tactile environment where customers enjoy ‘an experience’ that Wooden spoons: Irish Hedge Layer Neil Faulkes. absorbs them into a world of real craft and exciting art. Makers include, innovative Wood Tuner Paul Proctor from Stoke Rochford, Southern Ireland’s top hedge layer Niel Faulkes, who makes beautiful hand carved spoons from his hedge-laying off cuts, Steve Handley who bends and invents new usable objects out of old silver plate and prize winning furniture maker Alex Walshaw who only ever uses hand tools! There are also hand woven and hand painted scarves from Southern Painting: Irish Artist Des Murrie Ireland. The gallery has a solid framework of loyal and local artists including the very distinctive Michael Gibbison from Deeping St James, Barbara Rae Norridge who was originally from South Africa and now lives in Leicestershire, Jill Barthorpe, who trained at the Slade School of Art and, of course, Rutland’s well-loved and best known painter Alan Oliver. Richard on his various quests to Ireland has bought into the Gallery work by three of Dublin’s top artists, Des Murrie, Marie Carroll and Deborah Donnelly. Also always on show at the gallery, and well known to Rutland Living, is local sculptor Julie Wilson. She creates lifelike animal pieces from pet dogs to moon-gazing Hares and more exotic animals from her African Safaris. You can also see work by

gallery owner Richard ‘The Rutland Potter’. Pots are an essential part of his life and to be able to produce work that others can enjoy gives him a huge pleasure. Experience and enjoy. • Old House Gallery, 13 Market Place, Oakham. Tel. 01572755538. www.rutlandgallery.com

AG Personal Training launches in Uppingham P

enhams the jewellers is expanding, with a new shop opening up in Melton Mowbray. Come and see their stunning silver, gold and platinum ranges, offering a wide selection of watches as well. Specialising in personalised bespoke work, they also provide all repair services in and out of house. A welcoming environment, helpful staff and beautiful jewellery, opening up on the 5th December just in time to treat your loved ones this Christmas. Located at 15 Sherrad St, Melton Mowbray, Le13 1xh, Tel: 01664 500300

opular Personal Training expert, Anthony Gray (known as Ant) has recently opened his own Fitness Studio in Uppingham. Formerly of Barnsdale Hotel’s Sports and Leisure Team, Ant provides an exclusive and completely private environment for clients to receive one to one personal training with nutritional programmes designed to meet the needs of each individual. “I advocate a holistic approach to improving fitness which means examining the lifestyle, diet and current activity levels of each client with a view to improving their wellbeing overall.” With a diverse customer base spanning both genders, all age groups and every kind of fitness level, Ant relishes the opportunity to help all his clients move forward towards their personal goals – in fact, the greater the challenge the better as far as he is concerned. “Together we re-evaluate how clients view their food and fitness but I never promote weight loss in terms of a traditional ‘diet’ – in fact, my trainees are always surprised at how much food I expect them to eat and the lack of hardship involved. If anything, they eat more than they are used to in support their increased activity level which is usually a nice surprise.” • Whether you are starting from scratch or seeking improvements to your existing training technique, you can find out more by calling Ant on Tel: 07739 355997 or visit his Facebook page at Anthony Gray-Fitness. RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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S HOP S & SE R V I CE S

UPDATES Business as Usual at The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham F

avourite culinary duo Louise and Neil Hitchen remain ebullient at the helm at this popular Leicestershire pub. Having met working at Hambleton Hall, the couple opened their own establishment in January 2010 and are now celebrating an incredibly successful (almost) 6 years in business where they continue to reap the rewards and the awards! For the 5th year running The Berkeley Arms has received the sought after Michelin Bib Gourmand for good cooking at moderate prices. They were also recently named inspector’s favourite in the Michelin pub guide and have received high praise in the Waitrose Good Food Guide 2014: “Readers adore its inviting atmosphere, with service getting full marks for cheery smiles & courtesy. Neil’s cooking is right on the money too, delivering big seasonal flavours from good ingredients.” The pub has also been featured in ‘The Independent’ as one of the best 50 country pubs for food in England: “An exemplary pub, The Berkeley Arms is a wonderfully intimate place to drink and eat”. And Alastair Sawdays Pubs & Inns of England & Wales commented: “A rustic-modern décor, mint and marrows from producer Ken Hill, a beautiful pâté of rabbit, pork and prune - the perfect village pub!” Just in is the Hardens 2015 survey result: “This “charming” inn, run by a “very able” husbandand-wife team, may attract foodies with its “innovative, top-notch” cooking but it’s also a hit with “normal drinkers having a pint”; it’s “not all Farrow & Balled either”, which may or may not be a further recommendation.” You heard it here first! So with such reviews from the professionals, what are you waiting for? • To book call Tel: 01572 787587 or logon to: www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk and look out for the lunch for less deals in January in our annual feature.

Christmas Party Invitation from Grown Up Colouring with Colemans William Wheelwright Salon T W

illiam Wheelwright Salon in Oakham will be opening their doors on Thursday December 3rd from 6pm for an evening of hair and makeup demonstrations to get you ready for the party season. Take the opportunity to stock up on special offers on Davines products and in salon vouchers -perfect for Christmas presents. And enjoy a glass of fizz or two with the salon’s creative team. New to the team is Dan Adams from Leicester. Dan spent his early career honing his skills in various London boutiques and working on celebrity editorial. Recently, his creative talents have made him one of the select few to be hand-picked from hundreds of applicants by renowned celebrity hairdresser Sam McKnight to take part in an upcoming course designed to find new talent within the UK hairdressing industry. Salon Director, Will needs no introduction; he began training in the early 90s at TONI&GUY. After finishing his training and building a substantial clientele, including A list celebrities he was promoted to head of training at the flagship TONI&GUY salon in Kensington. At the age of 36 he accomplished his lifelong dream of owning his own salon and with its rising popularity William and his team are bringing a modern touch back to the Midlands. So pop along to this uber chic salon for tips on quick and easy ways to make your hair look incredible before those all-important seasonal nights out.

he grown-up colouring phenomenon continues apace with up to 5 colouring books now featuring regularly in the Top 50 selling books in the country! Many people, particularly women, are using colouring-in as a stress-buster as a way of completely relaxing after a hard day at work or with the children. In fact it has been shown to be so therapeutic, that some psychologists are now prescribing colouring as a therapy. So for a fun filled gift for all the family, head to Colemans to pick up all the supplies you need for a relaxing time this Christmas.

amuel Robson Fine Art are pleased to be holding an Open Weekend on Saturday 5th - 6th December from 12 - 4 pm, to celebrate the start of their Mixed Winter Exhibition. • The event will be held at 44a Main Street, Empingham, Rutland, LE15 8PS, and works can be viewed by appointment after the opening weekend. Please call or email Samuel on Tel: 07894 086836 or robson@srfagallery. com for further details of the show.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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SH OP S AND S E R V I CE S

Will You Accept the Harborough Market

Christmas Challenge? This Christmas season, why not give the supermarkets a miss and support your local independent trader? Sairah Butt discovers that Harborough Market, winner of the Niche Business Award for Best Independent Retailer, has everything you need for the perfect Christmas all under one roof

hristmas is all about the turkey, right? John Ross & Son Butcher has been taking Christmas turkey orders from 5th November. They will also be stocking up on Christmas favourites beef topside at £9.99 kilo, thin sausages and streaky bacon; all ready so you can make the perfect Christmas meal. Next stop in the market food hall is Routs Fishmonger who are shipping in the very best salmon and seafood ready for the festive season. Perfect for parties and entertaining. Sue’s Cheese, another market favourite, is filling the counters with their bestselling pork pies and pork and game pies, which start at only £3.65. Sue has a fabulous array of cheese on sale all year round, but particular Christmas favourites are the Snowdonia Black Bombs and Lancashire Bombs. She can even make up cheese baskets which make a perfect foodie gift idea. No Christmas dinner is complete without vegetables, love them or loath them, Brussel sprouts are a must! Boyds of Leicester has a great selection of high quality, fresh fruit, vegetables and even nuts, all at great prices. And of course Christmas isn’t Christmas without goodies! Brennans Candy Cabin has a huge array of chocolates and Christmas stockings – enough to satisfy the very sweetest of sweet tooths! That just leaves the Christmas cake to get. Crumbs! of Market Harborough are all ready to take orders on Christmas cakes. They can make anything you want from a traditional fruit cake to a sponge cake with prices starting at £20.00. If you haven’t seen their creations, check them out! Their designs are spectacular and will grace any Christmas table. SO THAT’S THE FOOD COVERED, WHAT ABOUT PRESENTS? Well, take your pick. If it’s mass produced, generic products you want, then you’re in the wrong place. Apart from all of the brilliant general hall traders, the market runs a weekly Thursday Craft Market full of wonderfully unique, handmade items and an Antiques Market each Wednesday and Sunday if you are looking for something really different as a gift idea. There are just too many items to list, but it seems as if there is something for everyone at the Market. Any friend or relative would be delighted to receive a Turkish lamp or lantern from the fabulous Wee Bazaar. You won’t find these on every High Street.

Stress-3-IT have a great range of new and refurbished laptops starting from only £125 as well as fabulous little stocking fillers like Minions and Stormtrooper USB sticks for only £9.50. Perfect for the teens in the family. How about a visit to Gary Lawson who sells frames and prints? There’s nothing nicer than perhaps gifting a beautifully framed family photo to loved ones. And if you are really looking to push the boat out for that special someone, Selvey & Co Jewellers has a huge range of beautiful jewellery and watches to suit every pocket. They are the only Sekonda stockist in Market Harborough and have a range that includes Omega, Tag Heuer as well as vintage watches. You really do need to visit the market to see what great finds you can make. A great time to visit is on Friday 4th December 5pm to 9pm for the late night Christmas Fayre. Can you take up the challenge and buy all of your Christmas shopping at Harborough Market? Harborough Market is operated by Market Place and is open 8am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and 9am to 3pm for the popular Sunday Antiques Market.

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DI ARY DAT E S

WHAT’S ON Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month. Friday 4 December, 7.30pm EVENT: Christmas Band Concert Featuring Uppingham School Jazz Orchestra, Junior and Senior Concert Bands. On Sunday 6 December at 7pm Peter Clements will play the organ for Advent Carols. Both concerts take place in Uppingham School Theatre Admission is free. Saturday 5 December, 8pm CONCERT: Celestial Voices An evening of Celtic, folk, sacred and classical music plus songs from the shows. Vocalists include Siobhan Owen, Naomi and Hannah Moxon and Katie Marshall. Lyddington Church Tickets from Uppingham Sports and Books or Tel: 0771 1718 449 Saturday 5 December, 7.30pm and Sunday 6 December, 2.30pm MUSICAL THEATRE: Oh What a Night Rutland Musical Theatre Society presents an evening of hits from all the West End shows. The story is told using big musical numbers weaved together with a specially written script. Uppingham Theatre Tickets are available from Music & More in Oakham or Tel: 01572 822788

Booking or enquiries Tel: 01572 770651 with full details at www.rutlandwater.org.uk Sunday 6 December, 7.30pm CHRISTMAS SHOW: The Churchfitters’ Christmas Cracker A selection of original and festive songs from this internationally acclaimed folk group. Morcott Village Hall Tickets cost £12.50 each including refreshments Tel: 01572 747381 Monday 7 December, doors at 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start EVENT: Rutland NSPCC Carol Concert Mulled wine and mince pies will be served on arrival before a magical programme of wondrous tales of Christmas by guest readers plus sublime music from local musicians. All Saints Church, Oakham Tickets £15 each Tel: 01572 813626 Wednesday 9 December, 6pm for 6.30pm start EVENT: Ashley Film Night This month’s film is Paddington (cert. PG) featuring an all-star cast. Refreshments available. Tickets £5/£3 in advance or on the door. Ashley Village Hall

Friday 27 November 2015 to Saturday 16 January 2016 FAMILY SHOW: Oliver! Lionel Bart’s multi-award winning Oliver! is the timeless tale about the boy who asks for more. The sensational score includes classics ‘Food Glorious Food’ and ‘I’d Do Anything.’ Curve, Leicester Tickets from £15 Tel: 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk Wednesday 9 December 2015 to Sunday 10 January 2016 (various performance times) THEATRE: The Witches Roald Dahl’s tale is brought to life in a terrifying treat for the whole family. Witches absolutely detest children and are planning to wipe them out but one brave young boy and his grandmother have a plan to get rid of the witches for good. Recommended for children aged 7 years plus and their brave grown-ups. Tickets from £10 Tel: 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

Uppingham Town Hall Admission £5 on the door.

Wednesday 9 December, 7pm for a 7.30pm start EVENT: Film Night The autumn series continues with ‘Mr Holmes’ starring Ian McKellan. Everyone welcome to come along with a bottle – nibbles supplied.

Friday 11 December, 7.30pm CONCERT: Sounds of the Season Chater Community Choir will be raising funds for a new piano for Edith Weston Primary School. The choir will be joined

Wednesday 9 to Friday 11 December, 7pm FAMILY SHOW: Scrooge – A Christmas Carol Ebenezer Scrooge encounters three ghosts who teach him the true meaning of Christmas. BMC performing arts students present their annual show with songs, dances, laughs and the occasional fright. Melton Theatre Tickets £5/£3 Tel: 01664 851 111 www.meltontheatre.co.uk

by the children from the school and from Brooke Hill Academy. Popular Christmas favourites, seasonal readings and refreshments will combine to create a little Christmas joy. Oakham School Chapel Tickets are £5 Tel: 01572 821197 Wednesday 16 to Sunday 20 December (Performance times vary) PANTOMIME: Peter Pan Starring Louis Emerick (Brookside) and Beth Kingston (Hollyoaks) bring you the story of Peter Pan. Fantastic adventures full of laughs, songs, brilliant sets and comedy routines where young and old will believe that anything is possible. Melton Theatre Tickets from £10 Tel: 01664 851 111 www.meltontheatre.co.uk

Saturday 5 December 1pm to 3pm WORKSHOP: Natural Christmas Decorations Learn how to create natural Christmas decorations for your home. Places are £25 per person. Also this month is a Festive Willow Weaving workshop, a Birdwatching Walk and just after Christmas a Family Coppice. Events take place or begin at the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre.

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OU T & AB OUT

Let The Bells Ring Out For Christmas Sosennah Every tells the story of the current Ashley Bell Ringers

UMMY tight, arms stretched, shoulders back, pull hard, look right, keep to the rhythm…”, no this isn’t a new Kettlebells mixed with Zumba exercise class but Bell Ringing! Much to the surprise and astonishment of my friends, I am a bell ringer having answered a ‘Bell ringing Crisis’ ad in the Ashley village newsletter about two years ago, which invited villagers to come and ‘have a go’. For me the chance to learn a new and completely different skill was the draw to try it out. After a few sessions I realised the art of Campanology combined a mental workout due to the complexities of movements and rhythm one has to keep in mind, with a physical element, which I really loved. Nobody should be put off as the physical side is not nearly as demanding as everyone believes, although I have been known to be lifted off the floor once or twice on a heavy bell, which certainly causes an adrenaline rush! Our band of novice ringers range from nine year old Callum to several lady ringers and the crew from Weston who always have to leave by 8.30pm or they get into trouble with the Mrs’! Fellow ringer Karen says, “The camaraderie has been brilliant, we all make mistakes but we keep encouraging and praising each other.“ Ringing certainly isn’t for the faint hearted. All manner of things can go wrong, particularly when the rope snakes around at high speed, easily able to wipe off somebody’s glasses or ear-rings and cause rope burns to the arms and face! But for this not to happen, bell ringing requires complete focus and for me adds to the appeal of it as a hobby as it provides a total escapism from day to day life. I am not too embarrassed to say that for the first three months, I had nightmares after every Monday evening session that I might lose control of the rope, cause the bell to break the stay and that the bell was going to fall on my head! Now that I am a bit more accomplished these have thankfully ceased! We are all incredibly indebted to the huge time and effort our wonderful calm and talented teacher Nick Churchman and his equally brilliant wife Helen have put into teaching us. Their ability to break down the intricate movements to simple step by step sessions has helped us enormously. They are also good at persuading us to try a heavier bell, ring in neighbouring towers or to try Call Changes, a method of ringing which creates permutations with different bells being rung in a number of different orders! Claire says, “Ringing is so challenging, that I want to keep coming to try again. The fact that it isn’t easy really appeals to me.” One thing that does make ringing at St Mary’s in Ashley a pleasure is the quality of the bells which we owe mainly to Albert Stanton who was a churchwarden at Ashley and bell

ringer for 56 years and also John Wright who together ran a campaign to save the bells in Ashley with a big fundraising drive and with Lottery funding were able to have the bells rehung. Reverend Sally Hughes who looks after five local parishes says “Bells have been summoning folk to worship and audibly reminding the village of the Church’s presence at the heart of every community for centuries. So the enthusiastic revival of bell ringing in our churches- starting at Ashley and now spreading further is very welcome indeed.” Peter, a relative newcomer to Wilbarston, says that bell ringing has really helped him meet new people and put something back into the community. Peter says, “The success of the Ashley group meant that I could use this as a blueprint to start a new group in Wilbarston. I’m delighted to report that we now have six absolute beginners as well as unearthing some experienced ringers, which meant that Wilbarston had its own ringers at the Harvest Festival for the first time in many years.” For those interested in trying it out, don’t feel you have to be religious or that you have to commit to a full service each week/ month. I really look forward to ringing on all the

main festivities and the support from the congregation is fantastic. We do appreciate that they have had to put up with a lot of clanging before a tune is now recognisable! On Remembrance Sunday, the bells give a more sombre tone as the bell hammer is literally muffled with a thick cloth. We all feel a huge sense of pride and privilege to play an important part in these services and also for weddings. Our first wedding was particularly momentous as it was for fellow bell ringers Chris and Lisa Newell. I was also thrilled to be part of a national campaign to ring bells across the country for the 70th Anniversary of VE day. In 2012 for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, local Wilbarston resident Rosalind organised a ringing of bells along 65 miles of the Welland River, when 48 churches rung in unison and so plans are already afoot for something special to commemorate the Queen’s 90th Birthday in June next year. For a challenge where the cerebral meets the physical and one that is social to boot, you need not look further than your local bell ringing group. Go on, give it a go… • If you are interested in trying bell ringing, speak to the Tower Captain or Vicar in your local church.

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ED U C AT I ON

Rutland County College – The Future R

UTLAND County College is a highly successful sixth form college in Barleythorpe just outside Oakham in Rutland and caters for approximately 250 young men and women in post 16 study. The college is set in beautiful grounds and students achieve well. 25% last year progress on to Russell Group Universities and many more go to other good universities. It would seem to be an ideal situation. However, the creation this year of a new sixth form Free School a few hundred yards from the college has meant the situation is set to change with the proposal being that the sixth form moves lock, stock and barrel over to its sister site at Casterton College Rutland, 10 miles to the East. Over the summer the public were consulted on the proposals and out of 656 votes, 88.4% voted in favour with only 11% against. The reason is that currently the town of Stamford does not have an academic sixth form and parents there are very keen to put this right. Principal Carl Smith explained, “Now that Oakham is over-supplied with sixth form provision, it seems logical to switch our attention to the needs of the young people of Stamford where there is a shortage of provision. Our excellent track record puts us in a strong position to meet this need on our Casterton site.” If given the go-ahead, the new sixth form would start in September 2017 and offer a high value academic curriculum to 250 students aged 1619 with a range of A-Levels and the Cambridge Pre-U Diploma. The good news is that the new college would continue to offer excellent education with its existing staff in bright new facilities so those who are considering applying for 2016 and 2017 can be rest assured that they will benefit from a great offer.

Rutland County Students performing ‘Romeo and Juliet’ at the Oakham Festival pre Edinburgh Fringe

Scholarship Opportunities at Leicester High School for Girls L

IKE most independent schools, Leicester High offers scholarships for girls who excel academically and musically. The school, with small classes and a focused atmosphere, enables girls who love learning to reach their potential. Scholarship awards result in discounts off the fees, and this is helpful to many parents. Scholars are role models in school and are expected to take a greater part in school life. For pupils applying for entry in Years 4-12, the music scholarship is offered, dependent on certain musical criteria. In addition, external candidates also have to meet academic entry criteria, which can be found on the website. All girls must play two instruments, one of which can be voice. Girls in Years 4-6 need to have achieved grades 1 or 2, Years 7-9 grades 2-3, Years 10-11 grades 3-5, and Year 12 grades 6+. The music scholarship lasts for a year and can be re-applied for annually. The concession discount on fees is £350 per term for a scholarship and £150 per term for an award. For girls applying for entry in Year 7, there is an academic scholarship called ‘The Headmaster’s Scholarship’. This offers an 80% reduction of the fees and is for bright girls who are from a state school who might not normally consider an independent school. In February, girls take a scholarship exam and are interviewed. The scholarship lasts from Years 7-11. The other academic scholarship is also for girls entering Year 7, and is called the ‘Bishop Williams’ scholarship. This is assessed at the annual entrance exam in January and those who gain the award are entitled to a 5-10% reduction of the fees. The scholarship lasts from Years 7-13. The final scholarship, ‘The Ogden Scholarship’ is for girls entering Year 12. Criteria for this are specific, and detailed information is on the website. In a nutshell, candidates must be studying maths and physics at A level, have very good GCSE results, be educated in the state sector and have a gross parental income of less than £50,000. The scholarship lasts from

Years 12-13 and the fees are fully funded by the School and The Ogden Trust. • If you would like an informal chat about scholarships, please contact the Registrar, Mrs Julia Harbage on Tel: 0116 270 5338. Entrance Examination and Assessment Day: 9am, Saturday 16 January 2016. Open Morning 9-11.30am, Tuesday 9 February 2016. Leicester High, 454 London Road Leicester LE2 2PP, Tel. 0116 270 5338.

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L OC AL HI ST O R Y

‘Oh Christmas Tree (et al...)’ Caroline Aston gives us a different flavour of Christmas….

AKE one pine tree (sized according to taste and home height), some holly, ivy and mistletoe, add a turkey plus a couple of crackers and festive greetings to all. Blend together well and you have a very basic recipe for a classic Christmas. Yes, it’s that time of year again and by the time you read this the bed in your spare room may well be 3 feet off the ground, elevated upwards by the pile of pressies underneath that you have already amassed and wrapped if you are organised and not like me. The tree that provides the fragrant focus of family fun has been around historically for a long, long time. Along with its other evergreen cousins mentioned above it symbolises that the darkness of winter will eventually end and with the lengthening days new greenery will appear, very reassuring for our pagan forbears, dependent as they were on nature for their survival. Christianity imbued the leafy message with deeper significance: life everlasting, personified by the perpetually green and glossy holly leaf and pine needle. Although decorated trees formed part of celebrations for centuries, the Christmas tree, as we know it, was largely popularised by that prolific royal baby producer Queen Victoria and her beloved husband Prince Albert. A famous engraving of the two with some of their babies around their candle-bedecked tree formed the frontispiece of December 1848’s ‘The London Illustrated News’. In today’s parlance we’d say that the thing then went viral! Portly Ford Farm at Welford, about nine miles from Market Harborough, offers a whole forest of firry delights: the Nordman (65% of us go for that one), the Frazer (narrower shape with sturdy branches for heavy deccos), the traditional Norway Spruce (keep it watered to stop annoying needle drop) and the less familiar Blue Spruce (citrus-scented and blue-grey) plus Lodgepole (an American favourite that plastic tree makers tend to use as their

template). There are over 25,000 growing trees on the farm and, if that isn’t impressive enough, Portly Ford has won the prestigious British Christmas Tree Growers Association award for Best Champion Wreath – TWICE! So, if you are eagle-eyed enough, you will have seen one of their wreaths hanging on the famous front door of No. 10, Downing Street! And if you need that symbolic holly and ivy, not to mention the kissencouraging mistletoe I’m sure they can supply that too! Legend has it that a certain William Strickland, an East Yorkshireman, was responsible for bringing the turkey into England in 1536. He acquired six birds by trading with Native Americans and lusty King Henry VIII is supposed to have been the first royal to eat a turkey dinner on Christmas day. By 1573 farmer Thomas Tusser tells us that the practice was pretty common but goose remained a popular choice for centuries too. Its oily fat soothed sore hands and chilblains while its feathers provided mattress and pillow stuffing and countless quill pens. Mrs Beeton tells us to roast the turkey in front of a good fire, its breast covered with buttered writing paper which should be removed towards the end to ensure golden succulence. Three miles from Rutland Water, between Ketton and South Luffenham, lies Cuckoo Farm where rare-breed traditional turkeys may be found in profusion! These are ‘heritage turkeys’, birds with an historic past as the proud litany of their breed names suggest: Norfolk Black, Cambridge Bronze, Bourbon Red, Slate Blue and Lavender. Bred naturally, the birds parade in all their feathered magnificence and are famed for their moist, rich flavour. It was London sweetmaker Tom Smith who gave us our first Christmas crackers round about 1845. His first creations were just bon-bon sweets with a riddle enclosed and sales were slow. He decided that adding a small ‘snap’ to his novelties might just do the trick. He was so right: his early crackers were called ‘cosaques’ after Cossack horsemen who had a habit of firing their guns in the air! After writing all your cards, spare a thought (and maybe a curse too!) for Sir Henry Cole. In 1843, the same year Charles Dickens published ‘A Christmas Carol’, he got so fed-up with writing individual letters to his large family that he decided to commission a pre-printed illustrated greeting card from an artist friend, John Calcott Horsley. The rest, as they say, is history and the sound of Christmas cards plopping through letterboxes is as much part of the festive season as the carols they start playing in shops round about October! So deck your halls, peel your sprouts and boil your puddings – you really will be touching history! Happy Christmas to all.

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L OC AL W AL K

King’s Cliffe & Blatherwycke Wait for a crisp, blue sky day and set out on this wonderful walk, traversing a varied landscape from deep woodland to sheep grazing pastures and a path alongside a babbling brook POINTS OF INTEREST King’s Cliffe The Domesday Book records that the village comprised more than a square mile of woodland in 1086 with only a small amount of cultivated land. Successive kings visited the area to hunt, notably King John and Henry II. Today it is a lively community with lots going on. Check out the village website at www.kingscliffe.org.uk

WALK DATA Distance: 6 miles Typical time: 2.5-3 hours OS map: Explorer 234, Landranger Start & finish: Post Office, King’s Cliffe Terrain: Easy going Stiles: About half a dozen Getting there: 5 miles west of Wansford along A47, then 3 miles south along minor road

BLATHERWYCKE Blatherwycke Hall, built by the Stafford family in 1713 in Grecian style was sold for £1,600 in 1948 and demolished for building materials. The private garden has now been restored and the estate is well maintained with top-quality new fencing alongside the path. Blatherwycke’s Holy Trinity Church is just on the left of the route. It is under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. The church dates from the 11th century, and alterations and additions were made to it during the following three centuries. The tower was rebuilt in the early 17th century.

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PIT STOPS

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Willow Brook

Alders Farm

The Cross Keys Inn Tel: 01780 470276 www.crosskeyskingscliffe.uk 2 West Street, King’s Cliffe, PE8 6XA Free House, with traditional & local pub ales, full menu offering pub grub & wine. KC Shopper & Post Office Tel: 01780 470267 47-49 West Street, Kings Cliffe, PE8 6XB Local convenience store with a Post Office counter. King’s Cliffe Bakery Tel: 01780 470205 68 West Street, King’s Cliffe, PE8 6XA Open: 7am to noon, Monday to Saturday

Blatherwycke

DIRECTIONS: 1 2

Park by the pub in the centre of King’s Cliffe. Head west along the main village street, then cross the Blatherwycke Rd up a track called Wood Lane over the disused railway line. Almost immediately after the railway line, turn left over a stile and follow the path across open access land in a westerly direction; at the start of the second field keep to the right along the edge of the wood and follow this path until you cross a stile and enter the woods. The path through the woods is reasonably well marked, but keep your eyes peeled; it briefly follows the route of the disused railway line and then passes behind a derelict footbridge. Shortly you come out into a field; turn right, following the line of the woods and where the field edge bears sharply round to the right strike out across the field to a stile you can just see on the far side of the field. Follow the path through the wood; in a few minutes you will come out on a metalled track; follow this to the right and go through a gate; there is then a steepish descent down towards a small brook, keeping Fineshade Abbey (residential) on your right. On reaching the brook, turn left keeping this side of it, passing through a sheep pen and along a field; after a couple of hundred yards start to climb in a southerly direction. Once over the brow of the hill you will get a view of Blatherwycke Park Farm; follow the path through a further four fields until you reach it. Walk through Blatherwycke village along the road until it turns sharp right; at this point turn left in an easterly direction, passing by the church; the path at this stage is easy to follow. About three quarters of a mile after the church there is a little gap in the fence on your left; one path goes towards a footbridge over Willow Brook, you need to take the path that turns immediately right after going through the gap, heading towards Alders Farm. At the other side of the farmyard, walk on the right of the fence and fairly soon you will come alongside the brook; this is a most charming part of the walk. After a mile cross a footbridge over the brook and you will soon find yourselves approaching King’s Cliffe. Cross a stile into a field (beware of the bull sign) and then another, pass the allotments into Orchard Lane, follow this straight ahead towards the church, through the lovely back ways of the village; you come out onto Hall Yard, turn left and you will be back at the pub.

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CRE 8

Christmas with the Kids B Katie Mitchell reveals her ideal Christmas

UILDING up to the awesomeness (as my eldest would say) of Christmas whilst my boys are still young enough to fizzle with the pure excitement of it all is what I love most about Christmas. I, personally, can give or take the turkey and trimmings, but give me a real Christmas tree, a box of decorations and my boys, and you have festive joy in a nutshell. So this month here is a one-stop-shop for building up that festive sparkle with the kids - stuff that doesn’t cost much, but can be oh so much fun (especially with a few festive tunes playing in the background). Forage and sparkle - collecting fir cones and decorating them with lovely paints and glitter is super easy and can create garlands that you are actually happy having on display - all you need is some twine to tie the cones to, dry (and bug free) cones, a tonne of newspaper to cover all surfaces and some paints, glue and glitter. Family Christmas Jumper Day - no longer a fashion faux pas, you will be seriously on trend - so go bold, and if you dare go matching. Decorate their tree - now I admit it, I am all about the placement of the perfect bauble on my (sorry our) tree...the boys not so much. This year they are having their own (very small) tree to decorate.

Wrap it up - brilliantly easy, just get some brown wrapping paper, some potatoes and paint and voila - potato printed wrapping paper which gives gifts that personal touch. Indoor camping fun - create your own festive grotto with fairy lights and dress up (and resign yourself to the fact that your lounge will be turned upside down for the rest of the day). Edible decorations - have a baking morning creating gingerbread stars, snowflakes, Santas and snowmen - see page 29 for a quick recipe sent in by one of our readers. Write a letter to Santa - draw and write Santa a postcard and pop it into the post by 6 December addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ and they might just hear back from him before he gets really busy on Christmas Eve. Festive films - invite their friends round for festive films in festive pyjamas eating festive treats (try The Snowman, Elf, Arthur Christmas or Polar Express)...just expect a lot of popcorn down the back of your sofa. Now, all together, Deck the Halls with boughs of holly, fa la la....ok, I’ll stop, just pass me another glass of mulled wine and I’ll settle in for the John Lewis Christmas ad.....ah the true meaning of Christmas! See you in 2016!

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YOUR FESTIVE SHOPPING ADDRESS LIST: • Visit your local Post Office for rolls of brown paper, Colemans for all stationary supplies and don’t forget the magical Winter Wonderland at Gates’ Garden Centre for inspiration and visit Santa while you are there • Market day in Oakham, Uppingham and Market Harborough - pick up your potatoes for some printing! • Fords of Oakham stock a plethora of baking and kitchen utensils • Fabulous dress up - check out the new Rutland Toys & Dance Boutique on the High Street. • Keep toasty warm in lovely knits (pictured) from www.win-or-lose.com - please note this is a men’s lifestyle brand. • Try The Ickle Wardrobe in Market Harborough for some great kids’ clothes • Out and about - collect branches and pine cones for some festive garland making • Snuggle in with a wonderful children’s storybook - check out the newly renovated Walkers of Oakham or Quinns Bookshop in Market Harborough (who also stock some great art supplies). • Win or Lose is hosting a ‘coffee and mince pie morning’ at Buttercross House, Oakham on 8th December (8am - 11am), with an opportunity to buy some Christmas presents for all the men in your life!

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17/11/2015 16:38

AC T I VI T I E S

PHOTO: FIONA CUMBERBATCH

A day out in Saffron Walden

Just an hour away by road or rail, this thriving Essex town has a host of independent shops, scores of beautiful buildings and a fascinating history. Fiona Cumberpatch paid a visit

SUNNY Saturday morning in Saffron Walden and the Market Place is buzzing with life. A huge fruit and vegetable stall selling the season’s first crop of walnuts, squash and English apples, an antiques stand spilling pretty wares in every direction, and, most noticeably, a fresh fish stall complete with alfresco seafood bar, where punters sit on stools, tucking into platters of glistening shellfish including Maldon oysters and Cromer crab, washed down with white wine. The Market Place is the hub of this town of 15,000 people, and has been since the 13th century. There are plenty of new additions to the scene, of course, including a particularly handsome white and gold Italianate library building, completed in 1848 and designed by Richard Tress which was once the Corn Exchange. But where ever you stroll in Saffron Walden there is a sense of the town’s colourful history and buildings beautiful enough to stop you in your tracks. In the 1230s, the Earls of Essex set out

an ambitious town plan with a grid system of streets, a new market place and a church. These elements can be seen in the town centre today, and create a heart to the community. By the late 1300s, the area around Walden had begun to grow the saffron crocus, and by the early 1500s it had become the centre of the saffron industry in this country. It was so important that the town adopted the name ‘Saffron Walden’ and the legacy of this is reflected in the distinctive timber framed buildings of this time and the largest parish church in Essex, which was completed in 1525. The saffron industry declined in the 17th and 18th century but prosperity returned in the Victorian era with the growth of the malting and brewing industries. Farming was also at the centre of the town’s economy - and it is surprising how rural and beautiful the town’s surroundings

Audley End House are, given its proximity to London and Cambridge. If you visit by train, the nearest stop is Audley End, as the town branch line of the railways was abandoned in 1964. The short taxi ride takes you through some stunning countryside, past Audley End house and gardens. This is an area which inspired the artists Eric Ravilious, Edward Bawden and their circle, who settled in the Essex countryside in the 1930s and often represented the rural landscape in their work.

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What to see in Saffron Walden The Cross Keys A 15th century timber framed house and shop with later additions. It sits at the corner of King Street and High Street, one of the town’s main shopping thoroughfares. Pop in for hot chocolate, mulled wine or a light lunch. It’s especially cosy in the winter months.

Shops to visit

Market Place On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the market fills the square with stalls. You can find artisan bread and cakes, a hat stall, hot sausages, crepes and coffee, the aforementioned fish stall, olives and Italian charcuterie, plants, flowers, organic fruit and veg, and lots more.

Fry Art Gallery and Bridge End Garden People who discover this gallery are hooked – although unfortunately it is closed between October and April. Although small, it houses a collection of works by the Great Bardfield group of artists who settled in the Essex countryside of the 1930s. They include the now hugely popular Eric Ravilious, and Edward Bawden. The gallery was built in 1856 by Francis Gibson to house his personal art collection, and inherited by his daughter Elizabeth Fry. The gallery sits at the entrance to Bridge End Garden, open to the public year round, and which include a Dutch Garden, rose garden and kitchen garden, wilderness area, maze and lawn with summerhouse. Well worth a visit, even on a chilly winter day, and the Fry Art Gallery is a must in season.

Church Street Gallery A gorgeous little gallery specialising in prints, paintings, ceramics and homewares. I spotted work by Celia Hart, James Dodds, Neil Bousfield and Jenny Portlock, as well as wallpaper by Mark Hearld. Print makers are especially well represented here. 17 Church Street. Tel: 01799 522947

Though there are chain stores in the high street, there are plenty of quirky, individual shops which are ideal for Christmas shopping. Try Arts Decoratifs, vintage jewellery specialists, for a tiny shop stuffed with sparkly treasures and objets trouvees. (The Cockpit, off Market Hill). Reeds (20 Church Street) is an antique hunters paradise, a vast space full of furniture, china, rustic items and paintings at affordable prices. If you love designer fashion, Anna (19 High Street) stocks beautiful collections and covetable cashmere. Oka (15 Church Street) offers colourful, ethnic-inspired homewares with a bit of bling. Potty Moos (18 -20 High Street) has a beautiful vintage-inspired Christmas shop, and rummagers will love The Mad Hatters Vintage Emporium on the opposite side of the road. If you’re ready for afternoon tea with toasted crumpets or home made scones, try Kim’s Tea and Coffee House at 5 Hill Street with a view over to the town bandstand. There’s a great selection of home made cakes and connoisseur’s tea.

Myddylton Place A Grade 1 listed building and one of the finest medieval buildings in the town. It was built as a combined shop, warehouse and home in the 1490s. There is a lovely doorway into Bridge Street and a carved dragon post on the corner. Museum and Castle ruins A particularly family friendly museum, housed in one of the oldest purpose built museum buildings in the country. It’s a great place to delve further into the history of the saffron trade, and to find out more about the buildings in the town, and how they were made (the distinctive decorative plasterwork called pargeting is explained, for example). There are plenty of interactive and imaginative displays. The museum is next to the ruins of Walden Castle, built by Geoffrey de Mandeville, 3rd Earl of Essex, in the 1130s or 40s. All that remains are the ruins of the keep, in flint and mortar, but the line of the inner and outer bailey helped created the shape of the town centre today. Museum Street. Tel 01799 510333 www.saffronwaldenmuseum.co.uk

Castle Street Most of the timber framed houses here date from around 1500. There are lots of examples of ancient and modern pargeting, a decorative waterproof plastering technique which sometimes gives the houses the appearance of beautiful pale iced cakes! • Saffron Walden is accessible by rail, direct from Peterborough station. Alight at Audley End. Taxis run regularly to and from the town. Walden Cabs, tel: 01799 500500 is reliable and fares are around £6 - £7. There is also an hourly bus service to the town centre from the station.

Castle Street

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L OC AL P EOPLE

Women in Philanthropy As public funds shrink, we could lose valuable yet inexpensive local charities which quietly help keep Leicestershire and Rutland healthy and thriving. Women in Philanthropy is a new network of women building a sustainable fund to support local charities. Amander Meade spoke with founding member Sarah Forsythe to discover more about their work

Bringing together talented and influential women Formed last year, Women In Philanthropy (WIP) hope to introduce more and more local women to the concept of non-traditional, modern fundraising for local organisations changing lives in their own communities. Under the administrative umbrella of the Leicestershire & Rutland Community Foundation, WIP aim to choose and support three different local charities each year with funds raised via a fixed donation of £500 per year per member. “WiP brings together influential and talented women across the region to improve local life. Our members work, or have worked, as scientists, journalists, designers, financial experts, lawyers and across every sphere of business,” elaborates Sarah. “We are leaders and organisers of many things including large and small companies, hospitals, universities, families and homes but it can be difficult to meet across our professional spheres as life gets very busy. Our members all share an interest in a safe, healthy, thriving area for all and as such, we have a common interest.” “Although £500 per year may sound initially like a large sum, it equates to less than £10 per week and when you consider what a cup of coffee from a High Street chain costs, it’s probably only about three cups.” Women in Philanthropy does not ask for endless donations - £500 per year is the cost of membership with £250 invested in building a ‘future proofed’ fund to support local charities. Each member then gives the other half of their donation as they choose across that year’s three chosen organisations at the culminating awards lunch which takes place next February

at the Curve Theatre in Leicester.” Last year £14,165 was invested into the WIP Fund with £9,384 shared between Rape Crisis, Twenty Twenty and the Rutland Family Centre to spend immediately on the important work they do. This year, the charities are Home-Start Rutland and Melton, Voluntary Action South Leicestershire Carers Group (in support of very young carers) and Women’s Aid Leicestershire.

Making our county worth living in As a veteran fundraiser and former High Sheriff, Sarah has benefitted by a real insight into the amazing work done by our local charities and voluntary groups. She describes her role with WiP as having peeled away another layer of insight, “They help our children and young people, look after our elderly, work to prevent crime and even support us when we are ill. They help to tackle unemployment and training problems, invest in our local social enterprises and help people into sport and the arts. They also look after our unpaid carers; help prevent homelessness and much more. These local charities and voluntary groups help to make our county worth living in. Some of them you’ll know, while others are more hidden, but they all need our support.” For those still making up their minds, why not attend one of the events organised throughout the year and which are free to members (thanks to sponsorship – no money from WiP members’ donations is spent on the running of events). Last year members enjoyed a behind the scenes tour of John Lewis, a tour

of a diamond merchant and specialist jewelers and a breakfast at Leicestershire Police Headquarters. This month a festive afternoon tea takes place at the Belmont Hotel, 3pm to 5pm on Wednesday 2 December and the Women in Philanthropy Awards Lunch begins from 12 noon on Tuesday 2 February 2016 at Curve, Leicester. Sarah and her team look forward to meeting you. • For more information on WiP, see www. wipfund.org.uk or call Izzy Sticklee on Tel: 0116 2624 916

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ART & C UL T U R E

Camden Crescent, Bath by Peter Brown

Peter Barker Fine Art in Uppingham

Peter Barker of Peter Barker Fine Art

Acclaimed local artist Peter Barker has opened the region’s newest gallery showing the work of some of Britain’s finest figurative artists. Along with his partner, co-owner Jane Edkins, the couple are determined to provide a different offering to art lovers in the region and say that browsers are actively encouraged. Amander Meade takes them at their word Award winning work in oils, pastel, watercolour and acrylic…

As a young boy Peter developed a deep love of nature and it was in those early years that he discovered he had an innate ability to draw and paint all he observed. At fourteen however, it was another prodigious talent for golf that led him to pursue the dream of becoming ‘the greatest golfer the world had ever known!’ Although that dream did not quite materialise as planned, Peter did enjoy his share of tournament success as a professional golfer before embarking on a new career in art in 1983. Self-taught, Peter’s work was swiftly accepted by the Stamford Artists Gallery and subsequently several others. Specialising in landscapes and wildlife, mostly in oils, but also in pastel, watercolour and acrylic Peter captures the most compelling realism in his work, often returning to the same spot to depict it throughout different seasons. River Derwent, Borrowdale by Peter Barker

Unique access to a most prestigious group of artists…

A chance meeting in a pub led to a dilapidated machinery store becoming the refurbished venue for what Peter describes as a much needed Fine Art Gallery showing the work of some of the best representational artists in the UK. “More modern, contemporary art is well catered for in the area, but we felt there was a lack of opportunity to see classy, traditional fine art in the East Midlands so we are extremely excited to have the cream of the crop all under one roof,” he explains. Peter has managed to attract a formidable stable of eminent British artists, each expressing their own unique style and with prices to suit all budgets, but despite that you’ll find no need to speak in hushed whispers or feel intimidated in this bright, welcoming space. Peter and Jane are extremely friendly and love to share their enthusiasm with all visitors – whether you know your art or just enjoy a browse. Some of the ‘heavyweight’ names currently showing work in the gallery include David Curtis, Peter Brown, Douglas Gray, Hazel Soan and Luis Morris and the list goes on to encompass the very best figurative artists working today. “It is such a privilege to represent this group of artists, some of whom I consider to be the greats of our time. How wonderful to have them all showing here in Rutland rather than having to travel to London or far beyond to see them exhibit,” adds Peter. The gallery has a unique selling point – Peter himself. As an award winning painter, he is able to offer an unusually high level of insight as to how the pictures were created and he knows all the artists he represents

in the gallery personally which certainly helps when advising clients. “I consider myself very lucky to make a living doing something I love, and to be surrounded by wonderful works of art by revered colleagues. In addition to some of the most celebrated painters, we also have some relatively lesser known, but incredibly talented artists’ work gracing our walls and our aim is to boost their reputation and get them the recognition they deserve.”

Well worth a visit…

Look out for details of a special Christmas exhibition in the gallery which can be found just off the A47 within the Welland Vale Garden Centre complex where there are a number of interesting businesses to explore plus a gorgeous bistro serving home-made food – thoroughly recommended. Also open for late night shopping till 9pm on the 3rd and 9th December. • Peter Barker Fine Art at Welland Vale Garden Centre, Glaston Road, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9EU Tel: 01572 868460 or 07591 472228. Opening hours are 11am to 4.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, and 11am to 4pm Sunday, closed Mondays. There will be late-night Christmas shopping until 9pm on the 3rd and 9th December. For more information, visit www.peterbarkerfineart.co.uk

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PETER BARKER FINE ART

“An irresistible mecca for lovers of fine paintings” Peter Barker is renowned for his evocative and mood-enhancing landscapes, many of which echo the beauty of Rutland. The good news is that he now has opened his own gallery, right in the heart of our beloved county. And what a feast to behold! Within the walls of this wonderfully light and airy space you will find a superb range of Peter’s work, as well as a handpicked selection of some of Britain’s finest painters, many of whom are members of the major London Art Societies. Highly acclaimed David Curtis, Pete (The Street) Brown and John Lines, as well as the much celebrated Hazel Soan and Luis Morris (runner up of the Sky Portrait Award 2013) are but a few. For lovers of fine art, a visit to this gallery is a must.

‘Winter Woollies’ by Peter Barker

‘Rosa Standing’ by Luis Morris

‘Porthchapel Cove, Cornwall’ by David Pilgrim

‘Snow Flurries’ by Hazel Soan

A house without art is a home with no soul The gallery can be found nestled in the grounds of Welland Vale Garden Centre, Glaston Road, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9EU Tel: 01572 868460 / 07591 472228 Web: www.peterbarkerfineart.co.uk facebook twitter

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P ROF I L E

Well Read

Oakham residents will have noticed the expansive refit undertaken at Walker’s Bookshop recently. The shop now boasts a stunning interior catering for the reading tastes of the county and beyond. Walkers is a multi-award winning news agency, stationer and greetings card specialist. Amander Meade meets owner Tim Walker, current President of the Booksellers Association

BLE to trace his family tree back to sixteenth century Belton, Tim Walker is a Rutlander through and through. Taking over the family retail book business founded twenty years earlier by his father Philip in 1992, Tim had plenty of experience helping out in the shop from a very early age. By the time Philip retired the publishing market had changed beyond recognition and we had all just begun to understand the lifestyle revolution that the internet would bring. “When Walkers began, there was no opportunity to discount books as the printed cover price was sacrosanct,” Tim explains. “Furthermore, supermarkets, airports, petrol stations and gift shops did not sell books.” In a very different retail landscape, Tim has managed to hold his nerve and has huge confidence in the power of a tangible book. “I’m very relaxed about e-readers; there is a place in the market for both formats. We know from customer feedback that very few readers exclusively use one format or the other – they enjoy both. In fact so many of us work all day at a screen, the last thing we want to do to relax is look at another one. E-readers have encouraged reading which has stimulated an overall growth in book sales over the last twenty years which is something the doom merchants did not predict.” In terms of Oakham’s own fortunes, Tim is passionate about keeping our town centres alive and diverse in the face of so many homogenised high streets. “We have great independent shops and lots of houses being built so I am optimistic,” he smiles. The newly refitted Walkers certainly dominates Oakham’s High Street now with a double front and a wonderfully welcoming interior. “We are thrilled with the expansion,” agrees Tim. “We now have room for a further two and a half thousand titles with plenty of space for browsing and better display as well as a hand selected range of over two and a half thousand greetings cards.” A predictable passion of Tim’s is literacy for children and in his role as President of

trade group, The Booksellers Association he is a major advocate of World Book Day and the ‘Books Are My Bag’ campaign which encourages readers to support their local bookshops. Regretfully without too much spare time for reading himself, Tim enjoys the underrated pastime of reading out loud. “I recently shared ‘Vernon God Little’ by DBC Pierre with my son George while we were away on holiday. He’s fifteen now but there is something about reading out loud that makes a story special.” The future looks rosy for Walkers which must in part be down to Tim’s philosophy towards customer service, “We must keep listening to the people of Rutland and Stamford. I endeavour to make sure that our stock is as good as it can be and my personal email is on our website so I am in touch with the grass roots of the business which is where I plan to remain.” Independent bookshops like Walkers are not only surviving but thriving – we look forward to the next chapter.

Tim’s top tips for book lovers this Christmas… “Cookery will be a huge sector this year and bound to do well are Jamie Oliver’s ‘Everyday Super Food’, Simply Nigella by Nigella Lawson and ‘Nopi: The Cookbook’ by Yotam Ottolenghi. For novels try ‘Dictator’ by Robert Harris, or ‘Career of Evil’ by Robert Galbraith (aka JK Rowling). History buffs will love ‘The Secret War: Spies, Codes and Guerrillas 1939-1945 by Max Hastings. Internet sensation Zoe Sugg has released ‘Girl Online: On Tour’ and the best-selling children’s book is very likely to be by the brilliant David Walliams with ‘Grandpa’s Great Escape’.

• Walkers branches are at: 10 High Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 764405 and 27 High Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 723957 www.walkersbookshops.co.uk

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P ROF I L E

Peter Polycarpou Stars in Curve’s ‘Oliver!’ This month (and until 16 January), Lionel Bart’s classic musical Oliver! is performed at Curve, Leicester. Marking the first Christmas under the theatre’s new management team of Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster, the show comes at the end of Curve’s most successful year to date with turnover reaching £7.8m, their highest since opening in 2008

As a regular West End lead, was the role of Fagin on your wish list? Most definitely. I’ve done a lot of research into the role and Lionel Bart’s Fagin is a significantly different character to the Fagin in Dickens’ novel. I loved Alec Guinness’s portrayal in the iconic 1948 film Oliver Twist and will try and strike a balance between being authentic and falling into a stereotype. Fagin has a dark side of course but I hope my version will be humorous and entertaining too.

tarring as Fagin in this production, Peter has had a hugely successful and varied career in theatre, film, television and radio. As well as multi-award winning performances in some of the country’s best loved musical theatre, Peter is fondly known for his starring role as Chris in Birds Of A Feather as well as appearances in EastEnders, Casualty, The Bill and most recently the BAFTA award winning Lost Honour of Christopher Jeffries. Just before Oliver! premieres, Amander Meade catches up with Peter to take a sneak peek behind the scenes. Peter, your musical theatre credentials are impeccable. You originated roles in Miss Saigon and Les Miserables as well as appearing in virtually every hit musical in the West End. How did you get started? I’ve always sung and actually quit drama college to pursue a career singing in a rock group. By sheer luck I was then offered a part in a rock opera and that’s where theatre began for me. Les Miserables was a fantastic opportunity but I didn’t want to get boxed in to musical theatre. I made a deliberate decision to take parts in four week runs in repertory theatre all over the country and it really helped hone my skills.

Which roles are still on the wish list? Well there are still a few; Tevye from Fiddler on the Roof, Valentin from Kiss of the Spider Woman, perhaps Cabaret? What will make this production special? Everything about it is fresh and exciting. Firstly, the show itself is just a classic piece and everyone involved in this has brought a new approach to the timeless score. The director, Paul Kerryson is so skilled at combining that very special ‘showbiz’ style with an incredible attention to detail. The cast are fantastic; the choreography is wonderful, as are the costumes and the set itself – I can’t wait to start playing in front of audiences. • Oliver! runs between Friday 27 November 2015 and January 16 2016. Tickets are priced from £18.50. Concessions are available. Performance times are Monday to Saturday 7.30pm with matinees most Wednesdays and Saturdays – check the website for details at www.curveonline.co.uk or Tel: 0116 242 3595

It’s almost thirty years since Birds of a Feather was a massive television hit. Has it been a ball and chain? Not in the least. I am so proud of the show and am still good friends with my co-stars Pauline, Linda and Lesley. The success of the show has always opened doors for me and never closed them so for that I will always be grateful. How are you settling in to rehearsals at Curve? It is a really special place and in terms of technicality and especially atmosphere, it’s right up there among the very best theatres in the UK. When I stepped onto the stage for the first time I was impressed by how open and spacious the auditorium is - you feel very close to the audience. The atmosphere is so vibrant; it’s a very energetic place – I love it.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING DECEMBER 2015

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