Market Harborough Living February 2016

Get Crafty!

Living Well in Later Life

Delicious Recipe

Health & Beauty

MARKET

HARBOROUGH LIVING

COVERING MARKET HARBOROUGH, SURROUNDING VILLAGES & RUTLAND

Spotlight on

Stoneygate PLUS:

TOP VALENTINE TREATS

FEBRUARY 2016 £1.50 02

9 771741 580014

GET IN TOUCH: marketharboroughliving.co.uk MH FEB COVER.indd 1

@MktHLivingMag

MktHLivingMag 20/01/2016 17:30

2387 ORC-Full Page Full Service Stamford Living Advert_ORC-Full Page Full Service Stamford Living Advert 20/02/2015 12:25 Page 1

Windows | Doors | Garden Rooms | Orangeries | Conservatories | Kitchens From the initial design consultation right through to the fitting of your windows, doors and kitchen, Orchard will ensure the quality of service you receive is second to none!

Visit one of our showrooms to see more‌ Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Showroom Opening Times

01780 481 850 orchardkitchens@live.co.uk www.orchardstamford.co.uk

01780 753 343 orchardwindows@live.co.uk www.orchardwindows.co.uk

Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm Saturday: Windows 9am - 1pm Kitchens 9am - 3pm

22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ 2

1 Meadow View, Uffington Road Stamford, PE9 2EX

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

February Contents www.rutlandliving.co.uk www.marketharboroughliving.co.uk 43 Shops and Services

S

48 Local Walk

Country stroll from Foxton Locks

52 Out and About

Newark – Tales of conflict at The National Civil War Centre

6 Editor’s Selection Valentine’s Gifts

8 Fashion Handbags

10 Fashion

Simon Cawthorne Hair Salon

12 Activities

Tom Scott of Swans of Oakham

60 Health Issues

Psychology Explored LIFE

AFTER SP ORT 62 Profile FROM BO TO BOAROT ROOM D ROOM LEO

N LLOYD Leon Lloyd

Valentine Treats

18 Local Shopping

Stoneygate, Leicester

23 Cre-8

Valentine Hearts

24 Local History The Yellow Earl

28 Recipe

Stuffed Breast of Herdwick Lamb with Soft Polenta and Thyme

31 Food and Drink

The Olive Branch’s Guide to the UK

32 Food and Drink

Django’s Beer House

35 Eating Out

The Fox and Hounds, Exton

39 Shops and Services Harborough Happenings

40 Shops and Services Updates from Rutland

Sporting celebrities can their care ers but, when experience ama zing highs an end, that part during they may of their exist encounter ence come wonder a period what life s to of low self-e now has that chan steem and to offer. ge can This book lead to illustrates could equa something how lly prove really posit to be of ive – and interest it to non-s women as portsmen and well.

We R Publish ing

Ltd

BOARD RO OM

Village Lifestyle

59 Local People

17 Health and Beauty

What’s on in our region this month

@RutlandLiving

Spring Cleaning

Children’s Sport

37 Diary Dates

INCORPORATING

55 Shops and Services

SPORT FRO M BOOT ROOM TO

Abigail

Care Homes for the Elderly

LIFE AFTER

ince my request in January, where I was seeking tales of marathon runners, I have been corresponding with the Matt Hampson Foundation which is in search of athletes to sign up for charity places in the Silverstone Half Marathon next month and the London Marathon in April.

For the Silverstone event, the foundation is asking all runners to raise a target of £400 including a nonrefundable deposit of £50 to secure your place. To find out more about the Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon including the date, time and start location visit: http://adidashalfmarathon.co.uk For the London Marathon, and to access one of these coveted places, runners are asked to raise a target of £5,000 including a non-refundable deposit of £500. To find out more about the Virgin Money London Marathon including the date, time and start location visit: www. virginmoneylondonmarathon.com For either event, contact info@hambo. co.uk to find out how to book your place. There are other events online too including a ‘tough mudder’ for those of you that like to test all-around strength, stamina, teamwork, and mental grit!

Sadly, I will not be joining you as I am recovering from my second knee operation – it seems running does not agree with me but I like to live vicariously so please do continue to send in your stories.

Good luck

LEON LLOYD

LIFE AFT

FROM BOER SPORT TO BOAROT ROOM D ROOM LEO N LLOYD

@leonlloyd13

£12.95

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 Rutland Living cover: River Exe mussels cooked in Bottle Kicking cider, (from the Bewicke Arms menu) - photo scottchoucino.com.

See page 28.

Market Harborough Living cover: Dorte Photography, www.dorte. co.uk. Thanks to Abiti Fashions, Stoneygate. See page 18.

SUBSCRIBE TO RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING

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

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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ORANGERIES, CONSERVATORIES, WINDOWS, DOORS AND VERANDAS Visit our showhome at: Ketton Design House, 63 High Street, Ketton, Rutland, PE9 3TE

Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm Weekends by appointment only

01780 400 500

ahorangeries.co.uk

Stylish windows and doors whatever your project

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OAKHAM RUGS est. 1993 The finest selection of hand knotted rugs in the area.

Traditional and Contemporary. New and Old.

L A FINTIONS C

REDU

S D N LE E RY

SATH FEBRUA 13

www.oakhamrugs.co.uk mail@oakhamrugs.co.uk OPEN TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 10.00AM TO 5.00PM 6 The Maltings, off Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland. LE15 6EA

01572 724441 Oakham Oriental Rugs Ltd t/as Oakham Rugs

w ww .k n ig h t sofo a kh am. com 33-37 High Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AH • Tel: (01572) 722240 •

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ED I T OR’S SE LE CTI O N

Valentine’s Day Suggestions

Abigail Richardson selects some romantic treats • Cook your favourite dish for two in this Heart Oven Dish from Tiger Stores, £6 • Take a romantic break at the Woodlands Retreat at Hothorpe Hall, Tel: 01858 881500, www.woodlandbreaks.co.uk

• For the true romantic , cosy up in front of a roaring fire from Heatsource, www.heatsource-of-uppingham.co.uk , Tel: 01572 829953 NEED A GIFT? • Albar’s Den versatile Wraps, handmade in Nepal (fairtrade), £25 • Spell it out with these gold letters from Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors, £3 each.

• John Lewis Hotel Chocolate Chocolates, £5 • Paper Chase Love Slip Bottle £3.50

• John Lewis Collection Scarlet Lace Basque, £60

AND IF YOU ARE THINKING OF REALLY MARKING THE OCCASION…..

• Ruby and Diamond 18ct White Gold Pendant, Heidi Kjeldsen Jewellery & Gemstones (www. heidikjeldsen.com)

• Bespoke Ruby and Diamond Platinum Ring, Heidi Kjeldsen Jewellery & Gemstones (www. heidikjeldsen.com)

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MIGHT THERE BE WEDDING BELLS? • Bespoke Diamond and Platinum Ring, Heidi Kjeldsen Jewellery & Gemstones (www.heidikjeldsen.com) And look out for next month’s wedding supplement – the bible for brides-to- be.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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Led by a trained restorer with 22 years experience as a specialist dealer in Antique and Contemporary Hand knotted Oriental & European Rugs, Carpets, Kilims, Textiles & Cushions.

THE RUG STUDIO, 2 High St East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PZ. Open: Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm or by appointment Telephone: 01572 829927 or 07885 757 796 Email: info@therugstudio.co.uk Website: www.therugstudio.co.uk

Live Beautifully

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

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F ASHI ON

A Handbag!

If you’re looking for a designer, quality or fashion handbag, you’re in luck. Rutland has all kinds of styles on offer from clutch bags, tote bags, shoulder bags to soft-as-you-like leather bags …..and what better way to say ‘I Love You’ this Valentine’s Day? 1 Large Blue and Brown Italian Leather Tote, £93, Albar’s Den 2 Taupe Mulberry, Freya Satchel, £595, Cavells 3 Olga Berg Clutch in Snakeskin (also comes in red and black), £49, Duo 4 Red Mulberry, Mini Jamie Bag, £475, Cavells 5 Jet Set Large Tote, Michael Kors, Navy, £255, Cavells 6 Bolla Bags adjustable Brown Leather Tote , Brandy, £65.99, Vanilla 7 Olga Berg Clutch in Navy (as above), £49, Duo 8 Red David Jones Shoulder Bag, £26, Baubles and Bangles 9 Olga Berg Clutc/Shoulder Bag in Red, £59, Duo 10 Flakes by Kris-ana, Orange Tie Top Tote with small bag inside, £49, Cavells South Street 11 Smith and Cavanova Beige Cylinder Bag, £145, Vanilla 12 Smith and Cavanova Beige Purse (to match), £52.50, Vanilla 13 Riley Large Satchel, Michael Kors, Khaki, £325, Cavells 14 Baby Pink Bessie of London Shoulder Bag, £35, Baubles and Bangles 15 Turquoise David Jones Handbag, £30, Baubles and Bangles 16 Peacock Blue Italian Leather Handbag, £80, Albar’s Den 17 Small Handwoven Kilim, £24, Oakham Rugs 18 Large Handwoven Kilim, £45, Oakham Rugs 19 Red Italian Leather Tote, £75, Albar’s Den 20 Mistletoe by Kris-ana, Green Slouch Bag with small bag inside, £45, Cavells South Street

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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WITH THANKS TO: Elli Dean: www.ellideanphotography.co.uk, Tel: 07932055548

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STOCKISTS Baubles and Bangles, Tel: 01572 724177, www.baublesandbangles.co.uk Albar’s Den – The Gift Emporium, Tel: 07977 002260 Cavells and Cavells South Street, Tel: 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk Duo Boutique, Tel: 01572 722116, www.duoboutique.uk Oakham Rugs, Tel: 01572 724441, www.oakhamorientalrugs.co.uk Vanilla, Tel: 01572 757577, www.vanillaboutique.co.uk

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F ASHI ON

Simply Fabulous Hair!

The talented team at Simon Cawthorne Hair at 23A Mill Street, Oakham, all continually strive to be far ahead of each season’s key looks

W

hat makes this salon stand out from the crowd is its team of dedicated colour technicians and highly trained stylists, whose raison d’etre is to deliver beautifully crafted haircuts, styling and personalised colour to each and every client.

MEET THE RISING STARS! Imogen Kirk Imogen joined the Simon Cawthorne team three and a half years ago as an apprentice. She has excelled throughout all levels of training and now holds the well-deserved position of Level Two Colour Technician.

Imogen has continued to hone her skills as a dedicated colour specialist through additional training. She excels in colour corrections and cutting-edge colour techniques, is very creative and “loves working with funky and edgy colours.”

The creative side of colour and its ability to really transform how a person looks and feels is what attracted Imogen to specialise in colour: “I love the fact that colour is so versatile; you can use vibrant colours like reds and purples to really make a statement, blend different shades for accent, change it with the seasons and create a look that’s individual to every client”.

Says Simon, “Imogen is very easy going and you’re guaranteed a great conversation as well as a pamper! Book an appointment with her before February 28 and to help you maintain your new look for longer, we’ll give you a custom-blended Simon Cawthorne colour shampoo worth £14.95, with our compliments.”

Chloe Cassidy One of the salon’s most popular stylists, Chloe is well-known for her creative cutting-edge designs.

She has a steadfast and loyal clientele but is always looking for new clients to amaze them with her skills.

Chloe is a superb all-rounder, her blow-dries are legendary; she cuts with precision and accuracy and is particularly talented when it comes to hairups. Her passion is working with long hair to create fantastic glamorous looks. She also enjoys creating fabulous up-dos and is always extremely busy during the party season. When asked what she loves most about her job she said: “I love making people feel great and the fact that in an hour you can completely change someone’s day, whether that’s with a great blow-dry, a trim or a new look.”

Says Simon, “Chloe is a fabulous stylist with a natural flair for hairdressing and a great listener, so why not take advantage of this month’s special offer and find out for yourself? Up until February 28, a cut and blow-dry is just £25!”

DON’T FORGET TO QUOTE LIVINGFEB16 TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS MONTH’S OFFERS. • www.simoncawthorne.com

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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AC T I VI T I ES

Sporty Kids Children have an enormous amount of natural energy and parents play a crucial role in how their children approach sport. Nowadays there seems to be a wealth of clubs and opportunities available, but if you are a bit stuck on where to start or what to try next, worry no longer. Katie Mitchell asks Ben Eshelby, PE teacher and Director of Rutland based Eshelby Leisure, why sport is important, even at pre-school age, and what’s out there for young kids in Rutland?

Start early

When speaking with Ben, it is clear that the earlier parents start taking an interest in sport the better: “Parents can be huge role models when it comes to getting their children to be physically active, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money either. As well as helping children maintain a healthy weight, physical activity helps children grown strong bones, build self-confidence, discover the world around them and best of all, have fun.”

Make it fun

Fantastic gymnastics

Pre-school gymnastics is a great foundation for all sports, building strength, co-ordination, balance and flexibility. Children get the opportunity to swing on bars, learn the beams, learn to roll correctly and use different apparatus such as Ribbons and Balls (have a look at Oakham Artistic Gymnastic Academy for more information).

Give it a ‘try’

“Every child has different interests and abilities and the important thing is to find something that your child enjoys - be it swimming, gymnastics, running around the park or playing football. It is often the sporting habits we start when young that stay with us. We are lucky enough to live in a beautiful part of the country where the great outdoors also offers so many opportunities to get active in lovely surroundings such as Rutland Water.”

Rugby is a great sport to gets kids active early on - Rugbytots for example uses Rugby specific skills to aid the development of young children.

The programme has been designed to develop children’s physical, psychological and social attributes and well as gently encouraging rugby specific skills such as running with the ball, finding space, kicking, catching, and scoring a try. Classes are available in Market Harborough and Melton Mowbray (visit www.rugbytots.co.uk). Oakham Rugby Club also offer training form the age of 4 on a Sunday morning from 10.30am.

What is available?

On two wheels

“Lots,” says Ben “and what is great is that there are plenty of chances to try before you commit to anything.”

SO HERE IS A TASTER OF WHAT IS AVAILABLE FOR PRESCHOOLERS:

If you want to progress from the Friday mums and tots 5-mile bike rides around Rutland Water, a fabulous programme called ‘Balanceability’ is available in Market Harborough and is the UK’s first and only accredited ‘learn to cycle’ programme for children aged 2.5 - 6 years old and is a great introduction to cycling.

A good introduction

Outdoor adventures

Some good early introductions to movement and exercise include Tumbletots which will encourage little ones to climb, jump and roll while learning to control movements more precisely using soft play equipment (www.tumbletots.com) and Creepy Crawlies at Catmose Sports Centre offer soft play sessions helping engage children’s imagination through movement, as does Baby Active in Great Casterton.

Making a splash

The sooner you start getting your little one used to the water the better not only can swimming boost self-confidence, it also improves strength in children’s arms and legs. Waterbabies (www.waterbabies.co.uk) provides a great introduction for babies and parents and many of our local leisure centres offer some lessons taking pre-schooler aged ‘ducklings’ through the stages of swimming - check out Harborough Leisure Centre, Catmose Sports Centre and the One O’Clock Club at Oakham CofE Primary School.

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“It isn’t just organised classes that count,” affirms Ben. “Bouncing on a trampoline in the garden, playing football in the park, taking a bike to Rutland Water or going on a country walk are all forms of valuable exercise.” Living in Rutland also gives us some great outdoor activities to get involved with - from kayaking at Rutland Water to rock climbing at Whitwell, so give it a go! “Sport teaches children so many of life’s fundamentals,” continues Ben. “Teaching them the importance of perseverance, being a good winner and how to recover from loss, being respectful and listening to instruction provides lots of opportunities to make new friends and learn more about ourselves.” Ben Eshelby is Director of Eshelby Leisure which offers Personal Training and Sports Tutoring, Leisure Leagues Football and Touch Rugby for adults and other activities including dodgeball for primary and secondary school children, holiday camps for children ages 6 to 14, and children’s touch rugby. For more information visit www.eshelbyleisure.com. Most activities take place at Oakham Enterprise Park.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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HAIR

Beautifully crafted cutting and personalised colour Award-winning hairdressing British Hairdressing Awards Finalist three years running

23A Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6EA

Awarded TIGI Creative Hairdresser of the Year 2009

Telephone: 01572 722774 www.simoncawthorne.com

We believe in better

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Advertisement Feature

Moore buyers registering from London than ever before! We ask Vernon Moore why?

M

oores Estate Agents have been established in the region for over a decade and their meticulous knowledge of the property market in Stamford, Rutland and the surrounding area is second to none. Managing Director, Vernon Moore has twenty five years’ experience in local agency and tells Amander Meade why innovation coupled with traditional values is the secret to his company’s ongoing success.

The Stamford Branch has moved to a new suite of offices in Sheep Market recently, what else is new for Moores this year?

Our philosophy this year is to take a step back from a very crowded and confusing market place and embrace all that was great about a ‘traditional’ agency. We have recognised that to anyone buying or selling a house it’s always the personal service they receive that really counts.

Having undoubtedly revolutionised the industry, the internet can also often prove to be an obstacle to a successful property search as anyone who has spent fruitless hours trawling property sites can tell you. Clients often discard properties that could be suitable for them and waste time viewing homes that a good agent could have told them were unsuitable.

All Moores clients are assigned to a single member of our sales team who will have visited all the properties in their portfolio personally and are contactable at any time of the day or evening. Gaining a thorough understanding of each client’s requirements means we can cut down on wasted viewings and even arrange visits to suitable properties not yet listed on line – particularly those being marketed within our discreet service. It sounds very simple but it’s all about scrupulous service and unrivalled local knowledge.

Stamford and Rutland both topped ‘Best Place to Live’ polls recently, have you seen an effect in sales?

Most certainly – the secret is very much out now that both Stamford and Rutland have been ‘discovered’ nationally. The Sunday Times accolade for Stamford convinced many Londoners that Stamford was a great option for them. Flexible working practices offered by so many companies have meant a surge of families from the south of England maximising their equity and moving here whilst being able to maintain career links with London if they need to. The whole area has so much to offer in terms of lifestyle and education and not just the private schools – we have superb non-fee paying primary and secondary schools which make the region incredibly desirable to families. Since the region topped the polls, we have had record numbers of interested applicants registering from out of the

area, all keen to find property which is great news for vendors.

Moores is the first choice in agency for many local people. How is the local market performing?

In recent years, the local market has been hampered by the banks’ reluctance to lend which has frustrated people keen to move. I am delighted that 2016 has been reversing that trend with Moores receiving a record number of requests for valuations and registered sales from the start of the year. There is a huge amount of new building going on across both Rutland and Stamford which is allowing first time buyers to remain living locally, aided by government initiatives which have certainly helped.

Similarly, downsizers selling larger family homes are able to find smaller properties in the area thanks to the ‘churn’ that new building provides.

Moores are always at the forefront of innovation in estate agency, what plans do you have for 2016?

We always try and think creatively for our vendors and have had great success promoting homes through our London office and military relocation networks which help us reach as many active buyers as possible and we always market all our homes from a variety of angles. Last month we opened our latest branch on the London Platform of Grantham Railway Station. The idea came to me whilst I was waiting for a train myself and I noticed the extraordinarily varied demographic of my fellow passengers. Inspired by the retailers at Kings Cross Station, the branch has a coffee bar feel and is designed to whet the appetite of those passing through.

Do you still have a passion for property?

I do – in fact we all do. My wife and fellow Director Jenny is a qualified lawyer and deals with our conveyancing and all the team are specialists in their field. Personally, I am genuinely still thrilled by every deal closed – after all that’s what we are here for.

Contact: The team at Moores are delighted to offer valuations and advice on all aspects of buying, selling and letting property. They are available to contact via branch offices in Oakham, Stamford, Melton, Uppingham, London and on the London platform at Grantham Railway Station.

• Oakham Office – Tel: 01572 757979 - Stamford Office – Tel: 01780 484555. Full contact details can be found at www.mooresestateagents.com

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PHYSIOTHERAPISTS HELEN LAVELLE AND ASSOCS. Have moved from Greetham Physio Clinic to:

EXCELLENCE PHYSIO 4 Station Approach Industrial Estate, Oakham. LE15 6QW Tel: 01572 813394 07881 337307

For Christmas this year my Mother thought she would attempt for the tenth year in a row to domesticate me, and my present from “Santa” was a cooking book on quick and easy meals that can be created by anyone no matter their level of skill in the kitchen in 15 mins or less.

Whilst this was not the present I had asked for, it did give me a great idea as to what to write in this article. So thanks Mum. Sort of.

“My top tips for your hair that can be achieved in 15 mins or less” VELCRO ROLLERS: Affordable at approx. £6 for 12 at any good chemist or wholesaler. After your hair has been washed and dried, this can be a silky blow dry or a quick blast before taking the kids to school, apply rollers through the top section from hairline to crown rolling backwards and on the sides rolling down, secure with a bobby pin. Leave these in your hair as long as possible then just before you dash out the door remove, place your head upside down and pull the wave out with your fingers lightly. Thus giving you more volume, a nice shine and hair that will still look good at school collection time.

Size of roller may vary depending on hair length, the roller should wrap 2/3 times around the hair, no more.

DIFFUSER: Most dryers will have come with one in the box, if not a universal diffuser can be bought. We sell them in the salon for approx. £10-£15. After washing hair, towel dry well then add a golf ball sized amount of mousse into your hand then using a wide tooth comb, dip comb into mousse then through hair, do this until all the product has gone and make sure it’s spread evenly through the hair to avoid any stickiness or clumping. Then with your diffuser attached, start to dry your hair. Use your hands to scrunch your hair and lean slightly onto the dryer allowing the hair to sit in the diffuser itself. Don’t spend more than 20 seconds on one section as you want the hair to dry evenly. When the hair is 80-90% dry leave the rest to dry naturally and continue to scrunch as the hair dry’s naturally. This will give hair a very “boho” or “natural look”, add volume and is a more relaxed look than a poker straight look or simply putting in a ponytail, which are typically the go to looks when in a rush.

SOFT WAVES: Next to a good dryer and a great brush, a professional pair of tongs is an essential for anyone who wants to keep their hair looking and feeling at its best. A pair of GHD tongs, which in my opinion are the very best you can buy cost £99 in the salon, but when you learn how to use them it’s money well spent. After washing add some Moroccan oil and dry off using fingers to make sure the roots are lifted and that the hair is 100% dry throughout without being overdone. Touch is always the best way to judge this. Then using a comb take a section of hair vertically from your hair line to just in front of the ear, secure the hair in the tong with the slide bar facing away from you and ensuring the ends of your hair are secured within the tong, then roll the tong so the whole section is getting heat. Count slowly to 6 then remove the tong, do these vertical sections all around your head, then leave for a few minutes. When they have cooled you can place your head upside down and with your fingers lightly pull out the tight curls leaving a beautiful natural wave.

I hope these are helpful and any questions or for more tips feel free to e mail me directly. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Thomas

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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Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE Church Street Practice, Melton Mowbray LE13 0PN

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HE AL T H & B E A U TY

That’s Amore Whether it’s a first date, special occasion or a romantic meal with your partner, ensure you look red hot this Valentine’s Day with these top beauty treats. By Catherine Varney:

DECENT PROPOSAL:

Think a proposal could be on the cards? Tatty, chipped nails certainly won’t do a sparkler justice so get them in tip top condition, just in case he pops the question. Throughout February, Julianne at Ellique in Oakham is offering a mini manicure for £12.50 instead of the usual price of £19; choose a glossy red polish and you’ll be ring-ready no matter what. For young lovers, the Hello Kitty box sets by OPI make a cute Valentine’s gift. In addition to the obligatory pearly whites, baby pinks and sparkly fuchsias, they also come in bold primary colours which are great for the less girly amongst them.

THE LOOK OF LOVE:

If you’ve lost that youthful glow, then fake it! A good facial can take years off you and ensure you won’t have to rely on soft candlelight to minimise wrinkles, creases and uneven skin tone. At ReNu Beauty in Melton Mowbray manager Jo Haywood offers both Clarins and Guinot facials so there really is something to suit all skin types and requirements.

For a technologically advanced treatment, try the Guinot Hydradermie Lift which is an immediate non-surgical lift-effect facial to restore volume and tone.

The treatment includes lymphatic drainage to eliminate toxins and give a brighter, fresher complexion. From the very first session, skin is amazingly smoother and firmer and contours and wrinkles appear reduced. For a more relaxed approach, try the Clarins Super Restorative Facial which provides intensive nourishment and hydration to reactivate the plump, peachy-smooth luminosity of youthful looking skin. The contouring and detoxifying massage restores definition, brightens features and minimises the appearance of age spots: the ultimate wake-up call for mature skin!

‘COME TO BED’ HEAD:

You won’t impress anyone with dry, frizzy hair so head to Essence in Uppingham where Kate and her team use the nourishing Aveda range of colours. Kate recommends going a touch lighter for spring to brighten and warm your complexion by adding some blonde highlights to darker hair or going a shade lighter for those with naturally blonde hair. The plant-based colours are 99% naturally derived ensuring they are as healthy as possible for your hair, leaving it vibrant, glossy and full of shine.

One sure-fire way of restoring condition to your hair is with a great cut – so head down to Thomas Hairdressing in Oakham where Thomas Potts pioneers the diamond dry technique to cut hair whilst it is dry and sitting naturally in your regular style. Results from this type of hair cut are fantastic because your finished style is far easier to maintain once you’ve left the salon and lasts longer between cuts too. Get a professional blow dry to finish, ensuring it’s so swishy and smooth - he won’t be able to resist running his fingers through it!

RELAX WITH YOUR LOVED ONE When Valentine’s weekend arrives, take time out for just the two of you with the Soul Mates package at the beautiful Barnsdale Hall Hotel.

Spa Manager Annabel told me: “Relax together with your loved one this Valentine’s weekend in our dual treatment room. Enjoy a back, neck and shoulder massage, a glass of sparkling wine and chocolates with your soul mate for the special price of £55.00 per couple - available throughout February. As a gift from Barnsdale to you during this special time, we are offering 25% off any further treatments you and your partner wish to have during your visit. Or make it extra special and upgrade your day with two full body massages for the special price of £95.00.”

TOP TO TOE OVERHAUL:

If you fancy a whole new look for the big day, then pay a visit to Olive Tanning and Beauty Studio where owner Janine has a very special February offer for you: 3 for 2 on all beauty treatments and spray tanning. Choose any 3 from the extensive list of beauty treatments offered by therapist Catherine (including manicures, pedicures, facials, tinting, waxing and gels) or the spray tan options and only pay for 2 of them (get the cheapest free). Call in to see Janine and her team for further information and choose which treatments will ensure you look glammed up and gorgeous for your hot date.

DIRECTORY: Ellique, 55 South Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 723950 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, Tel: 01572 822715 Thomas Hairdressing, The Maltings, 15 Mill Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 756561 and High Street, Melton Mowbray, www.thomashairdressing.co.uk Olive Tanning and Beauty Studio, 5&6 Crown Walk, Oakham, Tel: 01572 755750 Barnsdale Spa, Oakham, Rutland, Tel: 01572 771313, www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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SH OP P I N G

Stoneygate Shopping Isabella Hamnett ans Sosennah Every visit a selection of the shops on Allandale Road and Francis Street.

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STONE’S throw away from Market Harborough, you may well have unknowingly driven past this leafy village in the suburbs. Hidden just off the London Road in Leicester is a veritable shopper’s paradise. Free parking, independent boutiques and delicious eateries have a distinctly European vibe, and the friendly shop owners pride themselves on offering something out of the ordinary. There is even a Micro-pub in the shape of The Real Ale Classroom. With an evolving range of 5 ales straight from the cask together with 5 real ciders, this is a stylish conversion of a former shop featuring a teacher’s blackboard and school desks. What better way to spend a day?

ARTIFACT This pretty Aladdin’s cave of a gift shop has a loyal customer base, and quite rightly so. The shop celebrates its 40-year anniversary this year and it is no surprise when you meet owner Inger Cedarstrand, who, whilst elegantly waving around a drill (she was busy rearranging stock), expresses her passion for what she does. The result? One of the best selections of cards and gifts for anyone of any age that you will find.

• Artifact, 9 Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester, LE2 2DA, Tel: 01162 700 493, www.artifactcardsandgifts.co.uk GOLFFITZ Dominic Fitzpatrick’s specialist shop stocks only the finest golfing brands and his obvious knowledge and experience (he is a PGA Professional) means that both his service and stock are second to none. This is a must-visit for any golfer – beginner or professional.

• Golffitz, 24 Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 2DA , Tel: 0116 270 7324, www.golffitz.co.uk

KITSCH Susan Meason’s funky looking shop exterior is home to a treasure trove of quirky and unusual gifts, both new and retro. Many of the items are handmade by local artists, ensuring an ever-changing product range.

From pretty vintage tea cups to handmade clocks, this is the perfect place for picking up a one-off.

• Kitsch, 6 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester, Tel: 07854 066066, www.facebook.com/ VintageTearoomAndCrafts/

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ABITI Elegantly named after the Italian translation of ‘dresses,’ Michelle’s chic shop stocks a careful edit of womenswear from a handful of individual English, Danish, French and Italian designers. Recently doubling in size, this luxury boutique is a real fashion destination, where you are guaranteed not only a friendly welcome but an expert eye. Pick up some gifts while you are here too, there is a fabulous range of jewellery and accessories.

• Abiti Ladies wear, 21 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester, LE2 2BE, Tel: 01162704379, www.abiti-ladieswear.co.uk Isabella wears: Samsoe & Samsoe Jacket £239, Samsoe & Samsoe Blouse £74, Selected Femme Stretch Leather Trousers, £300

LES CAVES DU PATRON Describing this as a wine shop simply would not do it justice, as any of its devoted customers would tell you. Reminiscent of a wine cellar or cave in France, this family-run independent wine-merchants has been on Francis Street since 1981. The proprietor Jon Burn has been at the helm since 1999 and is incredibly knowledgeable on his subject. Expect classic wines from the main regions of France, Spain and Italy, alongside New World stars from South Africa and Chile.

• Les Caves du Patron, 15a Francis Street, Leicester, LE2 2BE, Tel: 0116 2218221, www.lescavesdupatron.co.uk

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BROWNS LINGERIE AND BEACHWEAR BOUTIQUE If you are looking for stunning and stylish designer lingerie from luxury brands such as Empreinte, Pleasure State, Heidi Klum, Lise Charmel, Marie Jo, Maison Lejaby, Stella McCartney and Mimi Holliday then this boutique has it all. Browns also specialises in larger cup sized lingerie from brands such as Fantasie, Freya, and Elomi Also on offer is bridal lingerie, bustiers, bridal hosiery, handmade briefs, swimwear collections, silk robes and keepsakes personalised with swarovski crystals.

You can buy online but we recommend a visit to their elegant boutique for fitting advice and to marvel at the stunning collections.

• Browns Lingerie Boutique, 35 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester, LE2 2BE, Tel: 01162 707188

NEST ‘We provide lovely things to lovely people’ is how this colourful gift emporium describes itself and we are in complete agreement. Opening its doors in 2001, Nest stocks some of the very best British designers and small independent companies and offers a customer service level that is second to none. Oh, and one of the very best selections of children’s gifts that we have found.

• Nest, 43 Francis Street, Leicester, LE2 2BE, Tel: 01162 709290, www.facebook.com/nestleicester/

PARIS Owned by husband and wife team Robert and Wendy, this spectacular shop is a box of delights. The duo offer arguably the most complete framing service anyone could desire; choose from a complete collection of traditional mouldings, before having your frame painted and finished in any effect, whether pure whimsy or to match your interior design. Wendy’s artworks are also available, and these range from charming ethereal hand-painted illustrations from such classics as ‘Cinderella’ and ‘The Princess and The Pea’, to vast ultra-glam embellished photographs of Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. Such works have attracted a cult following amongst the fash-pack.

• Paris, 32 Francis Street, Leicester, LE2 2BE, Tel: 01162 701522 @wendyaddison1 – Instagram

PLANK For something completely elevated from the ordinary, Plank at no.8, is a truly different shopping experience. This achingly hip lifestyle emporium cum coffee shop pools co-owners Lisa and Boz’s talents. With backgrounds respectively in furniture and fashion buying, this is a lesson in form and function. We challenge you to leave without a unique find. And the entrepreneurial pair has great plans for expansion and workshops. Watch this space.

• Plank, 8 Allandale Road, Leicester, LE2 2DA, Tel: 07905 054928, www.plank2014.com

TIN FISH SHOES This independent shoe store is fun, friendly and stocks great trendy designs for those looking to stand out from the crowd. From small independent brands to fashion favourites such as Irregular Choice, Toms and Camper. The staff are friendly and welcoming - definitely a small shop which really packs a punch.

• Tin Fish Shoes, 29-31 Francis St, Leicester LE2 2BE, Tel: 01162 701155, www.tinfishshoes.co.uk TRIDENT GALLERY This striking contemporary art gallery first opened its doors on Allandale Road ten years ago. Family run, the gallery is a partnership gallery of Washington Green Fine Art and DeMontfort Fine Art. Original artwork sits alongside limited edition prints and sculptures from the likes of Jack Vettriano, Kerry Darlington, Nick Potter, Todd White and Dom Joly, to name a few. Holding around four successful shows per year, these are events not to be missed – the family - Alex, June and Georgie are not only knowledgeable but great hosts.

• Trident Gallery, 1 Allandale Road, Leicester, LE2 2DA, Tel: 01162 745333, www.tridentgalleries.com

LATEST NEWS: OPENING THIS MONTH IS BAKER ST CAKES, CHECK OUT THEIR NEW COFFEE SHOP FOR EXQUISITE MACAROONS ET AL

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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American Vintage Custommade 360 Cashmere Hoss Intropia Postcard From Brighton Yerse Rosemunde Marie & Sixtine Duffy Twisted Muse Religion Pyrus Charli Samson & Samsoe and many more www.abiti-ladieswear.co.uk Abiti Ladies Wear 21 Francis Street, Stoneygate Leicester, LE BE 01162704379

BROWNS Lingerie & Beachwear

Lingerie Swimwear Designer Brands Dressing Gowns Nightwear Gift Vouchers T: 0116 2707188

35 Francis St Stoneygate Leicester LE2 2BE www.BrownsLingerie.com 20

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Make it heart-felt!

E

Get crafty for Valentine’s day with Nicola Hardy

MBRACE your artistic side and create something beautiful and personal.

Make a pretty felt heart for your loved one - it can be tiny or large, single or in rows attached to ribbon as an attractive wall decoration. You can even make it into a necklace!

1. YOU’LL NEED THE FOLLOWING… • Pieces of coloured felt • Embroidery thread • Buttons and beads • Cardboard heart templates • Beading wire or thread • Old pair of tights to stuff the hearts!

2. CUT OUT YOUR FELT HEARTS

3. ORGANISE YOUR HEARTS.

6. LARGER HEARTS LOOK GREAT ARRANGED ON WIDE RIBBON.

4. START SEWING AND ADDING BEADS.

5. THE SMALLER HEARTS ARE PERFECT FOR NECKLACES…

• For all knitting, weaving and spinning products visit Uppingham Yarns 30 North Street East, Uppingham, or online: www.wools.co.uk, Tel: 01572 823747

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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L OC AL HI ST O R Y

The Yellow Earl Caroline Aston uncovers the colourful love life of the 5th Earl of Lonsdale

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ICKNAMED the ‘Yellow Earl’ due to the colour of his carriages and servants’ livery Hugh Lowther, 5th Earl of Lonsdale was a larger than life character, internationally famous (or some might say infamous) but nowhere more so than in Rutland and Leicestershire, especially in the fine hunting country around Market Harborough and Oakham. Described rather acidly by the Earl of Ancaster as ‘almost an emperor, but not quite a gentleman’ Hugh was a superb rider and huntsman and was to be Master of both the Quorn and Cottesmore Hunts, basing himself at his hunting box, Barleythorpe Hall near Oakham. But he was also a patron of the noble art of boxing (hence the Lonsdale belt), a founder of the AA (its iconic black and yellow badge recalls his distinctive colours) and the Lonsdale cigar (huge and pungent!) testifies to his love of fine tobacco.

Hugh Lowther became an Earl against all the odds. Born a second son in 1857, it was his elder brother St. George who inherited the title aged just 21 and it was reasonably expected that St. George would breed a brood of heirs, one of whom would eventually succeed him.

Hugh seemed destined for a cheerful life of living well beyond his means, dependent on his brother’s largesse and, it has to be said, the object of his brother’s deep disapproval.

Fate stepped in: in 1882 St. George died, his health not improved by a love of alcohol, and left no issue. Cash-strapped Hugh became a millionaire overnight and had, at last, the cash to support his champagne life-style. He was married to a rather plain, angular aristocrat, the former Lady Grace Gordon, daughter of the Marquis of Hartly. Their greatest shared love was fox hunting and Grace was his equal as a

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rider to hounds.

But tragedy struck when Grace, pregnant with their first child, suffered a terrible fall from her horse and lost the baby.

Worse, from an Earl’s point of view, she also lost any chance of bearing a child. Reserved by nature, her shyness crystallised still further, intensified by growing hypochondria – Grace was not a social animal.

Though she and Hugh never divorced he embarked on a whole series of high-profile affairs and became the darling of the gossip columnists and scandal sheet writers. London shivered with delicious horror when he had a punch-up with Sir George Chetwynd in Rotten Row over the favours of the ‘Jersey Lily’, Lillie Langtry. Always liberal with her favours, Lillie was also mistress to the Prince of Wales at the time - he was NOT amused!

Though never conventionally handsome, Hugh was tall and athletic and charismatic.

He collected pretty women as some men collected butterflies or books and by far the most scandalous of his amours concerned an exquisite actress, one Violet Cameron. Violet (real name Violet Thompson) was born in 1862 and made her stage debut aged nine.

Photographs show an exquisitely lovely face and curvaceous body – add to this a sweet singing voice and you have a recipe for stage success. So it proved: Violet’s career prospered and title roles in light opera were hers for the asking. Aged 22 she married a Moroccan tea-taster, David de Bensaude, and bore him a child. However, in 1886 she met Hugh and the attraction was instant and explosive. Soon she was seen everywhere on the Earl’s arm. Bowled over, Hugh came up with a scheme to finance the formation of a theatre company by David and Violet and to send it on an American tour.

But sexual tension and jealousy was high: de Bensaude was consumed with anger and made his feelings plain. Violet applied for a separation order on the grounds of domestic cruelty and her husband responded by suing her for divorce on the grounds of her adultery with Hugh. All of this, of course, was meat and drink to the newspapers, especially the US ones, for the tour had gone ahead and the ménage a trois landed in the States amid a whirlwind of publicity that may have increased the box office take but did little to enhance anyone’s reputation. A

Portrait (1930) by Sir John Lavery (1856-1941)

“London shivered with delicious horror when he had a punch-up with Sir George Chetwynd in Rotten Row over the favours of the ‘Jersey Lily’, Lillie Langtry.

Always liberal with her favours, Lillie was also mistress to the Prince of Wales at the time - he was NOT amused!” music hall joke of the time ran something like ‘I say, I say, I say...what is the Earl of Lonsdale’s favourite colour? Why, it’s VIOLET, of course!’

The affair burned with passion and fire: the two lived together briefly in London and Violet bore Hugh a child......and then? Well, enough was enough. Hugh’s trustees, worn out with his financial excesses and deeply concerned about his public image, suggested that he leave England for a long trip. Violet passes into history (she’s buried in Worthing), and Hugh’s expedition to Canada in 1888 produced a fine collection of Inuit memorabilia now held in the British Museum.

For me though it is another souvenir of Hugh’s exile to the snowy wastes that captures my imagination – a moth-eaten stuffed husky!

It currently lives in the Rutland County Museum in Oakham, one of the few survivors of the dog teams Hugh took with him.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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VALENTINES CELEBRATIONS Drink, Eat, Stay Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Offer For Two Glass of Prosecco on Arrival | Three Course Dinner | Overnight Stay with Breakfast Saturday 13th February £150.00 Sunday 14th February £130.00 Why not stay in one of our Suites for an additional £20.00 Booking Essential • Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week • 17 Modern Bedrooms • Four AA Star Rated To book please call tel:

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RE C I P E – NE W FO R 2 0 1 6 !

Stuffed Breast of Herdwick Lamb with Soft Polenta and Thyme Tom Cockerill is Chef Consultant to the Bewicke Arms in Hallaton.

He also supplies rare breed beef & lamb from his family’s moorland farm to pubs and restaurants across the UK. Tom is passionate about the UK’s native rare breed meat - he is a member of the Slow Food Chef Alliance and has worked with the Slow Food Movement to promote their recent ‘Slow Meat’ initiative, encouraging people to consider eating less meat, but also ‘better’ meat from our country’s traditional heritage breeds.

Herdwick are the hardiest breed of sheep in Britain, grazing almost exclusively on the upland pastures of the central and western dales of the Lake District. The young lambs learn where to forage across the fells with their mothers, maturing naturally on a diet of wild grass and heather. Herdwicke lambs are usually over a year old before they are mature enough for meat which means they are relatively expensive to produce but the quality is incredible, tight textured, tender, sweet & full of flavour.

(Serves 2-4) Ingredients • 1 breast of Herdwick lamb • 1.5 litres good quality lamb or chicken stock For the stuffing • 8 slices of Proscuitto • 1 tin salted anchovies • 100g pitted black olives, roughly chopped • 50g capers • 1 Romaine lettuce • 1 lemon • 4 sprigs of rosemary, picked • Olive oil For the polenta • 500g instant polenta • 200g Mascarpone • 100g Parmesan • 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves • 1 Litre of braising liquor For the braised lamb you will need: • A solid 30cm roasting tin • Butcher’s string • Tin foil, baking parchment

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Photography: Scott Choucino www.scottchoucino.com

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Method • Chop the lettuce & cook for a minute in boiling water, drain into a colander and refresh in cold water.

• Lay the prosciutto across the lamb then evenly scatter the chopped olives, lettuce, garlic, anchovies, capers, rosemary & grated lemon zest on top, finally drizzle over a little olive oil, season with pepper & a little salt.

• Roll up the lamb to get a long cylinder, as you roll, keep pushing the stuffing back in as it tries to escape. Before you start tying, the open seam along the length of the breast should be face down on the board to prevent it falling open.

• Tie a loop around one end of the stuffed breast. The idea is to tie off a series of loops along the length to hold the roll in shape by twisting a half loop and drawing it over the original loop and pulling it taut an inch or so down from the previous loop until you’ve tied the whole breast (give it a go, once you’ve mastered this simple trick you’ll look like a pro-butcher!) Alternatively, fetch the scissors and tie each loop separately (no-one’s judging you) • Place your stuffed joint into an oiled roasting tin, season and place in the oven (200C) for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and add the stock before covering with a sheet of baking parchment & tin foil.

• Turn the oven down to 130 to slow braise the lamb for a further 3 hours • Remove the roasting tin from the oven, peel away one corner of the tin foil and carefully pour out the braising liquor into a heatproof jug.

For the polenta • Remove any fat from the braising liquor and make up to a litre in volume with hot water. Bring to a rapid boil in a saucepan and pour in the polenta whilst stirring • Reduce the heat and stir in the parmesan, thyme & parmesan.

• To serve, slice the lamb into rounds, removing any string and divide the polenta & lamb into individual bowls with some winter greens such as kale, spinach or chard.

• The Bewicke Arms, 1 Eastgate, Hallaton, LE16 8UB, Tel: 01858 555734 www.therarebreedchef.com, www.thebewicke.com

Where to buy

Herdwick Lamb is usually available from autumn to late spring, W.Archer & Son based in Clarendon Park, Leicester regularly stock Herdwicke lamb, they also stock a range of locally sourced heritage beef, pork & poultry as well as fantastic home cured Billtong!

W.Archer & Son, 99 Queens Rd, Leicester, LE2 1TT, Tel: 0116 270 7876, www.warcherbutchers.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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

The Firs, 5 Barrowden Road, Morcott, Rutland, LE15 9DQ e-mail sarah@rutlandgourmet.co.uk

Tel: 01536 770268 www.thehattonarms.com

14 Arnhill Road, Gretton | Northants, NN17 3DN

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SEAN HOP E C O O K S

The Olive Branch’s Guide

to the UK

Ben Jones, co-owner of Rutland’s famous pub, points you in the direction of his favourite places…

W

e are fortunate to have worked at some wonderful places over the years and many have inspired us during our journey at The Olive Branch.

We’ve worked with some great chefs and managers, too, who have done the same. In this article I’m namechecking a few of these special people and places, to give you some ideas when you’re on your travels.

THE CAT INN AND GRAVETYE MANOR, WEST SUSSEX Andrew Russell at the Cat Inn has created the perfect stopover before you fly out of Gatwick. It’s convenient for the airport but also in a very pretty spot to spend a few days in, with some amazing gardens to visit. We met Andrew at Gravetye Manor, East Grinstead, also in West Sussex, and if you want something a bit more formal than the Cat then the Manor is perfect. One of the first country house hotels, it’s somewhere that inspired Tim Hart to open Hambleton Hall.

THE FRENCH TABLE, RICHMOND UPON THAMES If you are ever in the Richmond upon Thames area you must visit The French Table in Surbiton, run by husband and wife team Eric and Sarah Guinard. This really is one of the best restaurants in the UK. It has picked up many awards and is ranked alongside The Ledbury, Petrus and a handful of others in the Zagat guide with a score of 28 (out of 30) for its food. And the front-ofhouse is equally good with Sarah a brilliant host and wine expert.

SCRAN & SCALLIE AND 21212, EDINBURGH If you’re heading north of the border then you should definitely visit Scran & Scallie – probably Edinburgh’s best gastropub. Also make sure you eat at 21212, run by Katie O’Brien – who used to work at Hambleton Hall – and her partner Paul Kitching. Paul cooks wonderful flavour combinations at this award-winning restaurant.

BARRAFINA AND BALTHAZAR, LONDON If London’s your destination then you can’t go wrong with a visit to one of the Hart boys’ (Hambleton Hall) Barrafina tapas bars in Frith Street, Drury Lane and Adelaide Street.

All are equally brilliant for Spanish food, wine and atmosphere. Or for a great traditional French brasserie, try Balthazar in Covent Garden.

CHAOPHRAYA, LEEDS If you’re in Leeds and enjoy Thai food then you’ll love Chaophraya: head upstairs to the cocktail bar and speak to Craig, who used to be behind the bar at The Olive Branch and is now making brilliant cocktails to match the Thai food.

GLOUCESTER SERVICES, M5 When driving south make sure you stop off at Gloucester Services on the M5 – it reminds me of the Ram Jam Inn 25 years ago in that it’s a motorway services you can actually look forward to stopping at.

ULTRACOMIDA AND THE SHED, PEMBROKESHIRE We often visit Bluestone National Park in Pembrokeshire – it’s a beautiful area with wonderful countryside for winter walks and so many places to discover. Ultracomida is an amazing Spanish deli and tapas bar in Narbeth, and if you want brilliant fish and chips including daily specials like sole meunière or solva seabass, head to The Shed in Porthgain.

THE SEAHORSE, DEVON My first job was washing up and preparing vegetables in a restaurant in Dartmouth. I saved up and had an amazing meal cooked by Joyce Molyneux at The Carved Angel – one of the first fish restaurant in the UK to get a Michelin Star, well before Rick Stein!

Nowadays Mitch Tonks is the man cooking the best seafood in Devon at The Seahorse, just two doors from the site of The Carved Angel.

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.

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

The Pub Within a Pub Django’s Beer House at The Sun Inn, Cottesmore, shows exactly the sort of creativity that more pubs need. By Matt Wright

W

E keep hearing how village pubs – and pubs in general – are having a challenging time. But in my experience the ones that struggle tend to show a distinct lack of energy, creativity and innovation. The pub sector as a whole seems more prone to this stuck-in-the-mud approach than others, with plenty of hostelries failing to change to meet new customer habits and whims.

That said, there are many fabulous examples of pubs thriving because they are willing to experiment, innovate and invest, putting customer experience at the heart of everything they do. One village pub doing just that is The Sun Inn at Cottesmore. From the outside it’s hard to imagine a more traditional-looking rural pub, with its thatched roof and whitewashed walls.

But licensees Andrew Leatherdale and Paul Gaukroger – who arrived in June 2013 – have not been content to rely solely on the pub’s chocolate-box looks to pull in the punters.

The newest and biggest change they’ve made is the very recent addition of Django’s Beer House & Bottle Shop. Django’s is probably best described as a micropub within a pub and it’s an absolutely brilliant use of a previously under-used space. Walk through the Sun Inn’s front door and you enter a wonderfully cosy, beautifully ancientfeeling village inn serving traditional cask ales and decent pub grub – it’s perfect – why would anyone want to change that? But adding to it is a different matter: wander through the Sun and you soon find Django’s – named after the pub cat – which was previously an old function room known as the Rutland Room. That has been transformed into a wonderful shrine to craft beer that feels cutting-edge, unique, self-contained and special.

The leading feature of Django’s is a set of beer casks illuminated behind glass, which on my visit contained a range of Grainstore ales. A nice touch is the fact that the beer lines are transparent, so you can view the colour of each ale, and as your pint is pulled you can see the liquid bubbling through. Next to the window display of casks are two fridges packed with bottles of craft beer – brews such as Brooklyn Lager, Duvel, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, BrewDog Punk IPA and Timmermans fruit beer. Overall, 40 beers are available in Django’s and the plan is to showcase a vast and frequently changing range of exciting cask and bottled beers.

The interior design of Django’s is individual, quirky and stylish, and it’s clear a lot of thought and effort have gone into it. There is exposed brickwork (mock apparently, although I’d never have guessed), raw wood, wallpaper with a repeat pattern of antique train tickets, Chesterfield-style armchairs, velvet seats, powerful ‘school-style’ radiators, and a set of very colourful doors.

“The idea for what eventually became Django’s

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Django’s Beer House & Bottle Shop is open from Thursday to Sunday from 6pm at The Sun Inn, Cottesmore, suninncottesmore.co.uk, 01572 812321

came from Everards, who own the pub,” says licensee Andrew. “We were discussing ideas with them on what to do with the old Rutland Room and the topic of micropubs came up. Micropubs are growing in popularity so Everards suggested installing one within the Sun – a pub within a pub, if you like. We loved the idea and visited Nottingham to see a few – places like The Junkyard and Doctor’s Orders – to get some inspiration.”

The new room also acts as a party space (for special pub events and for private hire), a place for the Sun Inn to host its regular movie nights using their overhead projector (starting again this February), and somewhere to host quiz nights and things like Murder Mystery evenings (there’s one coming up in March).

All in all, Django’s is a great example of how new life can be breathed into an old village pub. It adds far more value than a simple room revamp would ordinarily achieve because of its impressive creativity and sharp focus on beer, and because the idea of putting a micropub within a pub is such a cool one.

So if your local is having a tough time getting bums on seats, it might be worth showing them this article. It’s possible they’ll hit you over the head with the magazine, but you never know, it could get their creative juices flowing.

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

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All things vintage...

www.

stamfordfineart

.co.uk

20th Century Art

Costumes, textiles, luggage, jewellery and accessories Tuesday 16th February @10am Viewing: Saturday 13th February 9am–12 noon Monday 15th February 9am–4pm

gildings auctioneers

MARKET HARBOROUGH SALEROOM THE MILL GREAT BOWDEN ROAD LE16 7DE T: 01858 410414 SALES@GILDINGS.CO.UK

Please contact us to arrange a viewing. info@stamfordfineart.co.uk - 07949 861 753

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EA T I N G O UT

The New Fox Leads the Pack Ross Thain visits the revamped Fox & Hounds in Exton

T

HE Fox & Hounds sits on one of the most perfect village greens imaginable. Much photographed and admired, the F & H is the most impressive building on the Exton square, an elegant three storey Grade II Listed building with a formal façade in traditional stone and Collyweston slate. It is just about perfect. After a slightly chequered history over the last 20 years or so, with new tenants and a significant amount of investment, how does it stand up internally? A Fox being hunted down or a Hound setting the pace?

Rochelle Bushell, South African born, yet proud to emphasise her English origins, has established the new business as the English arm of a collection of Restaurants based in SA. Rochelle is essentially an Interior Designer, but describes herself as “just the conceptualisation”. I think that means the primary funder. On the back of the success in the Cape she is now looking to set up a similar group based in middle England. Exton is her chosen location for the first and she is already searching for another. Her interior design skills create a restaurant of real ambience, with corners for romantic evenings, larger tables for group gatherings and a dividing wall in the restaurant making for an atmosphere not dissimilar to The Olive Branch.

The local competition is strong. Barnsdale Lodge is less than two miles away as the crow flies, Hambleton three miles as the trout swims and Greetham, Clipsham, Stretton all have established venues. Rochelle is going to have to do something slightly different (and better) than those to bring in the punters and make a success of her venture.

We were greeted at our table by some Italian music bread, thin, crispy and perfect harmony to delicious olives, before starting the Taster Menu, consisting of three stunning starters. From the subtleties of a foie gras and port parfait through to a less complicated (delicious) salmon and beetroot, the aesthetic winner was the clementine, rainbow beets and goat’s cheese. Served with hazelnuts and aromatic herbs in a sherry vinaigrette, this looked stunning – and did not flatter to deceive. Elsewhere on the starters the F & H offers curry battered duck dumplings which flew past going somewhere else and looked absolutely delectable in a dumpling sort of way – scallops and veloute are offered too.

Main courses range from Grasmere pork loin which was my partner’s favourite, through to local Estate venison, which was very tender and a lovely combination with brussel’s sprout leaves. I am not minimalist by nature so being served three brussel leaves made me slightly suspicious.

However, their grouping with celeriac, cabbage and sloe gin was delicious and the pinnacle of the evening on the taste buds. The F & H are about to take Sophie Arlott’s excellent lamb so expect that in the New Year.

By the time of dessert, with taste buds zinging from the eclectic flavours, the polenta cake was a real filler and as part of a taster menu rather ambitious. The bourbon cappuccino was my preferred dish – the strong coffee flavour at the base of the vanilla ice cream was truly stunning. The merest hint of orange truffle added a real dynamism to the dish and, although I couldn’t finish it, I did think about returning to see it off for breakfast.

The Chefs, Omar Palazzolo and David Graham spar together behind the scenes. Omar, half Egyptian, half Italian (“makes him fun to work with in the kitchen”), has worked at La Gavroche, Nobu and The Arts Club. The skill and care that those restaurants require are exuded through the menu at the F & H. The Chefs are highly accomplished, know where everything comes from and “aim to tweak the menu on a regular basis to keep it interesting. We use local suppliers, producers and others to help us achieve a really stimulating and varied menu,” says David.

With three chic new bedrooms now available, an overnight stay would appear very sensible for those from further afield, yet Rochelle appreciates that she needs to cater for the local trade too and the beers are solid, from the Grain Store Brewery in Oakham, with a few strangers including bottles from Goose Island in the USA. The wine section, mainly French, has a tremendous range of Chardonnay and Burgundy and, although a heavier South African presence is promised, the wine list is considerably better than elsewhere in the vicinity. True, it is not cheap either, but probably with the intervention of some Cape imports, there might be more variety at the lower end. We tried Chilean Pinot Noir, an Italian Primitivo, as well as the French, all of which were excellent.

There is a decent range of Champagne and top notch Claret, but when I cheekily suggested that the double magnum of Pichon Longueville on display be opened, I was advised that this was being saved for a special occasion. Quite soon I feel, as this place may well sit nicely ahead of the pack; a true Fox. • 19 The Green, Exton, Rutland, Leicestershire LE15 8AP Tel: 01572 812403

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the perfect backdrop to your wedding day

Wedding Fair Sunday 28th February • 10.30am - 3.00pm Join us for Complimentary Cup Cakes and Champagne.

Wedding Show

The East of England

Org a by - nised C We upids ddi Sho ng ws

SUNDAY 21ST FEBRUARY

10.30am – 3.00pm - The East of England Showground, Peterborough Tel: 07738 912092 / 01775 765385 for details www.cupidsweddingshows.com

Licensed for Civil Ceremonies

The Regions Greatest Wedding Show!

Goody Bag for the first 250 Brides Over 80 Exhibitors Free Glass of Bubbly Catwalk Shows Free Parking Free Bridal Directory Free Prize Draw Admission: £4.00 Everything you need to plan your special day

Selection of rooms available each with its own ceremony room and outside facilities to hold your drinks reception and evening BBQ or Hog Roast Barnsdale Hair and Beauty on hand to offer relaxing treatments and pre-wedding hair and make-up packages for the bride and bridesmaids 66 Bedrooms with many enjoying spectacular views over Rutland Water and surrounding Countryside

Barnsdale Hall Hotel

Barnsdale Hall Hotel, Nr Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AB Tel: 01572 757 901 | www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk

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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 5 February, Doors at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm showing EVENT: Lyddington Film Club Held on the first Friday of each month, this month’s film will be Forty Five Years. Kate Mercer and her husband are excitedly planning a party to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary.

However, one week before the celebration, a letter arrives for the husband which shatters the rhythm of their lives. Tom Courtenay and Charlotte Rampling are at the top of their game in this compelling drama. There are snacks and soft drinks available to buy but you are also welcome to bring your own beer/wine to drink during the film. The chairs have padded seats and the room is heated for everyone’s comfort.

Lyddington Village Hall with profits to the Village Hall Fund. Tickets are £5 Wednesday 10 February, 7pm for 7.30pm showing FILM NIGHT: Suffragette (15) This month’s film stars Carey Mulligan in an emotional roller coaster story. Film lovers can look forward to Julie Walters in Brooklyn (15) next month on 9 March, followed by ‘The Lady in the Van’ starring Dame Maggie Smith on 6 April – see them all in Uppingham Town Hall. £5 on the door. Homemade nibbles supplied, bring a bottle of whatever you enjoy and maybe a cushion to make you extra comfortable.

Saturday 13 February, 10am to 12.30pm FAMILY ACTIVITY: Nest Box Challenge National Nest Box Week begins on Valentine’s Day so will you help the birds

by building a love nest this February? Learn about the breeding garden birds, build a box to take home and make a bird feeder as an extra treat for the birds in your garden.

Birdwatching Centre, Rutland Water Nature Reserve £10 per person. Book at www.rutlandwater.org Wednesday 15 February and 9 March, 7.30pm for an 8pm showing EVENT: Film Nights Villagers in Ashley can gather to see two great films this spring – firstly The Second Best Marigold Hotel which features a stellar cast and is the sequel to the highly rated Best Exotic Marigold Hotel which was a roaring success in Ashley in 2012.

Following in March is Mr Holmes starring Ian McKellan as the legendary sleuth undertaking one last case. Ashley Village Hall Tickets £5 on the door. (Intermission for refreshments) Wednesday 24 February, 7.30pm TALK: Roy Smart Great Easton and District Local History Society will welcome former Royal Navy pilot, air display director and aviation consultant Roy Smart as guest speaker. To mark the centenary of the Battle of Jutland, Roy’s subject is David, 1st Earl Beatty, who rose from humble cadet to First Sea Lord, statesman, and renowned public hero of World War One. Great Easton Village Hall.

Admission is £2 for visitors.

Saturday 27 February, 12pm to 3pm CHARITY SALE: Craft and Gift Fayre A new charity sale comes to Oakham on the last Saturday of each month complete with pop up café.

Donations for Rutland Charity please….

Discerning fashionistas in the region will be waiting with bated breath for the Good and New Clothes Sale which takes place next month by kind invitation of Barnsdale Lodge Hotel. Friday 4 March is a ticket only event between 5.30pm and 8pm and Saturday’s event, 5 March, is £5 admission on the door between 8.30am and 1.30pm. Donations of good quality men’s, ladies and children’s clothing or accessories are welcomed by Trish Ruddle Tel: 01572 724400 and Elizabeth Mills Tel: 07710 873811 who can also offer additional information and supply tickets.

Proceeds of this sale will be donated to The Sick Children’s Trust. Lots of stalls with quirky, unusual goods and lots of homemade refreshments on offer. Well worth a visit.

All Saint’s Church Hall, Oakham Stalls can be booked by calling Michelle on 07740412287

a sparkling, sophisticated production starring the multi award-winning Pixie Lott as Holly.

Directed by Nikolai Foster, this tale of vivacious, goodtime girl Holly Golightly is told through memorable songs from

the era and a stylish production set to capture the hearts of audiences and sparkle like a diamond in a Tiffany’s window.

Curve, Leicester Tickets from £15 Tel: 0116 242 3595 or at www.curveonline.co.uk

Sunday 28 February, 10.30am to 3pm EVENT: Wedding Fair Meet local suppliers ready to help plan your perfect day including DJs, photographers, bakers, transport experts, florists and pyro technicians.

Edith Weston Suite, Barnsdale Hall Hotel Admission is free with a complimentary glass of champagne.

Thursday 3 to Saturday 12 March, various performance times THEATRE: Breakfast At Tiffany’s The classic tale of Holly Golightly written by Truman Capote and so memorably portrayed by Audrey Hepburn in the iconic 1961 film, is being given a new lease of life as a stage play with music in RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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Quality garden birdseed at farm gate prices

FT SUPPLIE S CRA

dotdab &

HAN

DMADE

FT SUPPLIE S CRA

dotdab &

HAN

Stock up on your wild bird food and enjoy the scenic walks and an abundance of wildlife on our award winning conservation farm, why not combine a trip to the picturesque Eyebrook Reservoir when visiting us?

D MADE

Quality seeds, mealworms, suets & feeders

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

Crafty NEEDLES Hand Sewing X Machine Sewing X Knitting X Crochet X Cross Stitch X Candle-wicking

At Crafty Needles you will find a friendly and fun filled class for everyone

X Beginner and improver classes for adults and teens X Mum and toddler groups X Children’s needlecraft workshops during the school holidays Groups are kept small to allow for individual attention.

For a full list of available lessons please view our website:

www.craftyneedles.co.uk Or contact Lynne on: Tel: 07947 100378 Email: lynne@craftyneedles.co.uk

Crafty Needles, The Manor, Main Street, Tur Langton. LE8 0PJ 38

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EV EN T S & SE R V I C E S MA R K E T H A RB O R O U G H

HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS What’s new in Market Harborough?

Crafty Needles

Sarah Scott talks to Lynne Whitehead about her new business

A

lifelong love of sewing, knitting, embroidery and crocheting has inspired Lynne Whitehead to teach others her skills at Crafty Needles, a new workshop in Tur Langton.

Lynne’s eyes positively shine when she talks about needlecraft. Whether she’s discussing sewing intricate, beaded wedding dresses or crocheting rustic blankets for her family, it’s impossible not to be swept up in her enthusiasm. It’s this spark and creativity that has encouraged her to offer lessons in a full range of needlecraft.

“Growing up in South Africa, the youngest of seven children, meant being frugal was essential. Everything we wore was homemade by my mother,” Lynne explains; “Sitting at her knee, watching and learning,” meant that by the age of five she was cutting freestyle patterns and sewing herself clothes - albeit with fabric her mother had saved for something else!

It’s these skills, many of which are currently enjoying a renaissance that

Lynne hopes to pass on. “They’re not only useful and rewarding to know, they’re also extremely enjoyable and therapeutic.”

Situated in the picturesque Manor at Tur Langton, Crafty Needles is open to “those who have never picked up a needle in their life, to those who’d like to build on what they already know”. Lynne is keeping her South African heritage close to her heart too by sourcing high quality, organic yarns such as raw silk, bamboo, merino wools and cotton from small grass-roots businesses in rural South Africa; empowering craftspeople and adding to the local economy.

Crafty Needles is open for small group and one to one classes in sewing, crochet, knitting, cross stitch and candlewick embroidery.

• Crafty Needles, The Manor, Main Street, Tur Langton, Leicestershire, LE8 0PJ Tel: 07947 100378, Email: lynne@ craftyneedles.co.uk, www.craftyneedles.co.uk

Dot & Dab A

brand new independent craft supplies shop has opened on St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough. Run by two sisters, the shop currently stocks items needed for a variety of crafts including paper crafts, card making and scrapbooking as well as supplies such as scissors, glues, stamps. inks, embossing materials, paper, card and embellishments. Jewellery making items include beads, chains, tools, findings, wires and threads, Kumihimo boards and materials. More specialist items such as porcelain markers and candle decorating pens are available as well as children’s craft items including feathers, foam sheets, glitter glue and pipe cleaners.

Lizzie Bainbridge elaborates: “We are also launching our ‘made locally’ room where people can rent a small area to sell their own hand crafted products. We will also have our craft room downstairs where we will be running workshops or it can be hired to individuals who wish to craft away from home or the whole space can be hired for coffee mornings/as a meeting space for craft groups. You can keep up to date with us at: www. facebook.com/dotdabcrafts”. • 48 St Mary’s Road in Market Harborough.

Open Tuesdays to Saturdays 10am - 5pm. Tel: 01858 468854, info@ dotdab.co.uk, www.dotdab.co.uk

Chance to win meals for two at the new-look Market Harborough PizzaExpress

P

izzaExpress is celebrating the launch of its exciting new-look restaurant in Market Harborough by offering five fabulous prizes of meals for two to the value of £40.

The restaurant in St Mary’s Place has been totally transformed and includes new artwork paying tribute to the town’s famous Caxton Works type foundry.

The transformation has included taking out the central bar to open up the restaurant, with new banquette seating, copper pendants and wall lights. Manager, Suleyman Kaya, said, “We love our restaurant’s new look and have a friendly and enthusiastic team who are looking forward to welcoming everyone over a delicious pizza.”

PizzaExpress has been dishing up fresh, handmade pizza to Market Harborough since 2010. The new look coincides with the introduction of new seasonal specials such as a macaroni and cheese style Pennette Formaggi, hot spiced beef Calzone Diavolo and Treacle Tart Cheesecake.

• For younger pizza-lovers, PizzaExpress’ Piccolo menu is full of tasty choices including ‘Create Your Own’ pizza, and starts at just £3.95. For more details visit www.pizzaexpress.com To be in with chance to win a prize, just post or email your name, address and telephone number before February 29th to: PizzaExpress Market Harborough Competition, 15-16 St Mary’s Place, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7DR or MarketHarborough.Manager@pizzaexpress.com

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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SHOP S & SE R V I C E S

UPDATES Rutland Company Launches…The Manper™ R

utland-based hamper company, Under Fine Wraps, has launched a new range of ‘Manpers’ – carefully crafted hampers for that special man in your life - in time for Valentine’s Day. The family business specialises in the finer foods, drinks and gifts in life and their new range includes the Rutland Ales and Treats Manper™. It features award-winning beers from Oakham Ales, The Pickled Village chutneys, Awfully Posh pork crackling, chilli nuts, crisps and a host of other delicious treats presented in a carefully packed quality, natural wooden crate.

For those looking for something truly different and exciting for Valentine’s Day other ‘Manpers’ include high quality Whisky, German beers and fantastic British-made Seascape grooming products.

Under Fine Wraps Founder, Clare Underwood said: “We’re delighted to introduce the Manper™ concept into the world of luxury hampers and gifts by choosing very carefully selected products that most men would love to receive as a present.”

Under Fine Wraps works closely with producers who have a passion for using only the best ingredients. The company sources as many products as possible from the UK and supports small, local and artisan producers.

• To find out more about ‘Manpers’ and other Valentine’s Day gifts in their range, visit www.underfinewraps.co.uk or search for #Manper, #Manpers on social media.

Before You Take to the Slopes….

H

eed the words of renowned physiotherapist Helen Lavelle (formerly Eaton) who has this advice for skiers who are unlucky enough to sustain injury abroad, “Do use your insurance to get the injury assessed and by all means have knee injuries braced but avoid having surgery abroad unless you absolutely have to. Outcomes are far better when patients return to the UK and receive ongoing care.” Helen, who lectures internationally on her speciality – the treatment of knee injuries – has recently moved her practice from Greetham to Station Approach in Oakham where she now heads up a multi-disciplinary team of professionals including a dietician, massage therapist, pilates teacher and counsellor all on site. The practice has been renamed Excellence Physiotherapy and with Helen also renamed she hopes former patients will rediscover her at the new location. The new practice boasts state of the art rehabilitation facilities including a gymnasium, shock wave therapy, isokinetic dynamometry with full wheelchair access and ample parking.

Helen offers physiotherapy for all age groups including children who make up a quarter of her caseload as well as dozens of internationally known sportsmen and women. “My team has a strong sports background and with specialist neuro and spinal physios we are able to help with a very wide range of conditions. At the new site we have much more room and the most advanced equipment and technology to benefit our clients,” she explains.

A comprehensive stock of surgical appliances such as collars and corsets is held at the practice which is also a specialist fitting centre for Don Joy orthopaedics with specific expertise in the supply and fitting of knee braces.

• You can find Helen at Excellence Physio at 4 Station Approach, Oakham LE15 6QW. Tel: 01572 813394 or 720491 www.excellencephysio.co.uk

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Uppingham Yarns Ltd. Uppingham Yarns Ltd. was founded in 1980 in a small shop in the town of Uppingham and as the firm thrived Nick and Sara Challis moved several times within the town ending up at their current location at 30 North Street East.

With a two storey warehouse, the shop specialises in supplying yarns and fibre in many types and colours for knitting, weaving, spinning and many other crafts. The Hand knitting section includes yarns by James Brett, King Cole, Adrifil, Robin, Wendy, and a new range of Bergere yarns. Nick explains, “We have recently become a Bergere partner, and now stock a good range of their pattern books and yarns. As a result of this we will be organising a couple of Bergere presentations, dates to be announced in the spring.”

The machine knitting and weaving sections contain both stock and non-repeatable yarns in many thicknesses from cashmere, lamb’s wool, silk, glow in the dark, conductive, thermoformable and reflective.

The spinning and felting sections contain fibres from silk to merino wool.

• Says Nick, “Please visit our Aladdin’s cave of yarns at 30 North Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9QL or view us on our busy website: www.wools. co.uk, which has an online shop facility if required”.

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Uppingham yarns Knitting weaving spinning

www.harborough-stone.com

Announces we have become a Partner

COMING SOON BERGERE EVENTS

www.wools.co.uk 30 North Street East, Uppingham LE15 9QL 01572 823747

Do you have a spare room in your home?

Are you caring, nurturing and supportive?

Become a Host Family for an international pupil at a local boarding school Attractive daily rates Occasional weekend and half terms only Contact Imogen to find out more on imogen@pippasguardians.co.uk or call 01684 252757

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Rutland County Council is offering some FREE refresher driving theory courses aimed at drivers in Rutland.

THE COURSES HAVE BEEN ARRANGED ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: Thursday 17thOctober March Monday 12th

Tuesday 3rdSeptember November Friday 23rd Wednesday 17th March Tuesday 4th October Thursday 24rd March

2.00-4.00 10.00-12.00 14.00-16.00 10.00-12.00 14:00-16:00 2.00-4.00 10.00-12.00

Council Chambers, Chambers, Oakham Oakham Council Uppingham Town Hall Council Chambers, Oakham Cottesmore Village Hall Town Hall, Uppingham Tinwell Village Hall

20 Best Local Bike Rides In association with Rutland Cycling

rides

20 best

BIKE

These courses are for Rutland residents who would like to update their knowledge as well as learn how to drive more safely and efficiently. There will be an opportunity for a practical driving session at a later date.

For more information or to book your place telephone 01572-758248 or email tbarnwell@rutland.gov.uk

local

Spectacular rides around cycle Stamford, Ru Harborough tland, the Nene Va and lley

0 ISSN 175 7-747

9 7717 57 7470 12

01

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From the publish

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Please enclose a cheque for £3.50 per booklet, made payable to Local Living, and return to: BLBR, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY.

Or order online at: www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

Laxton House, 191 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 2PN Tel: 01733 530580 Email: info@midco-care.co.uk 42

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20/01/2016 10:26

SH OP S & SE R V I CE S

Living Well in Later Life Britain is one of many countries experiencing the dramatic demographic changes that occur in society when we start to live significantly longer lives. With our over 65s now outnumbering our under 16s, the trend is only expected to increase with grey power becoming a significant force to be reckoned with.

Thanks to improved nutrition and preventative care, most of us can look forward to longer lives in better health. Amander Meade speaks to some of the region’s experts in living longer either within your own home or in a tailored environment A SPECIAL PLACE Linda Ellis is part of the management team at Oak House Residential Home in Greetham where there are 25 places for those aged sixty five and over.

Renowned for its high quality of care and award winning food, Linda thinks it is the links with the local community that make Oak House a very special place to live. “We make sure that the residents have as much choice about outings and activities as possible and lots of those things involve people from the community. We encourage volunteers from the village to come in to Oak House and have lots of support from the service personnel at Kendrew Barracks – this all helps to reduce feelings of isolation and keep our residents feeling part of a wider community.

FLEXIBLE IN THE LONG OR SHORT TERM From their base on Oakham’s High Street, Always Take Care are a domiciliary care agency specialising in 24 hour care at home in respite situations, post operatively or on a longer term basis for those requiring live in care. With fully trained male and female carers, Always Take Care pride themselves on their person centred care designed around each individual and focussed on making the recipient as comfortable as possible whilst leading life to its fullest quality. “Long or short term, we can provide flexible services that meet ongoing palliative or temporary care needs and of course we are fully accredited and insured,” explains owner, Bridget, herself a trained nurse with many years’ experience.

SPECIALIST ADVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT Families sourcing care for the first time may find themselves subjugated to all kinds of information, rules and financial regulations which can feel overwhelming. Independent Social Worker, Aleisha White set up her own company to help in just this kind of situation. The Care Advice Centre exists to offer a flexible, tailor-made approach to care planning by working closely with individuals, their family and carers through an often difficult transition. “When considering care options, it is vital that people are able to access high quality information and advice. For those funding their own care, this is even more important, as this is the group that is often left to fend for itself.”

TODAY’S SOLUTION Autumn Assisted Living at Manor House, Middleton is an exclusive development in Middleton, near Market Harborough and is described as the ideal solution for retired individuals or couples who require some support whilst retaining an independent lifestyle.

Owner, Kiran Pancholi considers the care model to be revolutionising the future of elderly care. “Assisted Living apartments are a new solution outside of care homes but we go one step further at Manor House where our prices represent excellent value for money starting from £395 per week, per apartment to include, electricity, water rates, council tax, meals, 24 hour security and nursing staff support on site, laundry and cleaning services, refuse collection, window cleaning, apartment maintenance, insurance, use of the communal gardens and living rooms. These facilities come as standard at Autumn Assisted which is why we are unique.”

RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE With a well-equipped gym, spa, swimming pool and private landscaped gardens, Welland Place in Market Harborough is a fabulous example of the kind of tailored accommodation that more and more ‘downsizers’ are opting for. “We offer everything you could hope for in an active and fulfilled retirement community.

Residents enjoy a sitting room and snooker room, along with a library, hair salon, restaurant and bar.

A recent inspired idea was the addition of a fully equipped workshop (with tools donated by two generous residents) where residents can make use of the tools and work benches to make things or undertake repairs. Each apartment has a link to staff on site that are available 24-hours a day.” Welland Place offers residents independence and privacy, a range of options to live life to the full with like-minded friends as well as the reassurance of support, if and when it may be needed.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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SH OP S & SE R V I CE S

BESPOKE CARE PACKAGES Based in Stamford, launched four years ago, Bluebird Care have won several awards and expanded their services and team of carer’s year on year caring for customers throughout Rutland, Stamford, Peterborough and East Northamptonshire. Leisa McKenzie, Company Director, told us; “At Bluebird Care our vision is to help all of our clients live safely and holistically in their own home to maintain their independence and dignity. Our services include everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning, or social visits and can vary from a single call a day, to complex twenty four hour live in care. We understand that every client is individual and has different needs therefore we offer highly flexible and bespoke services to each of our customers. Training and investing in our staff is constant, which means many of our care staff hold specialist qualifications in areas including dementia care, Alzheimer’s, end of life care, pressure sore prevention, and many more.”

wheelchairs, armchairs, beds, walking aids, stair lifts and many more daily living aids. The team are also very happy to provide a no obligation quote for servicing or repair of your existing equipment.

“We are also happy to give demonstrations of any product in a customer’s own home and offer a full collection and return service free of charge for any serviced goods.” As you might expect, there is ample parking right outside the showrooms and a larger outside area to test drive scooters.

A CARING FAMILY ENVIRONMENT Situated in beautiful rural Rutland, Belton House Retirement Home offers permanent, respite and convalescent care as well as short break stays or holidays. Staff pride themselves on a warm and friendly welcome from the moment residents arrive and guest bedrooms are luxuriously furnished throughout, creating a homely atmosphere. Guests are of course encouraged to bring their own personal and treasured objects to furnish and decorate their rooms. There is a beautiful lounge, dining room and atrium area where guests socialise or meet family and friends and a lift provides easy access to all floors. Pitch and putt golf, croquet and boules are all played in the beautifully landscaped grounds with events and concerts held throughout the year meaning there is always plenty to do.

CARE AND COMPANIONSHIP Gail Devereux-Batchelor runs Home Instead Senior Care for Market Harborough, Corby and Rutland. Gail is has a genuine passion for changing the face of the caring profession and is a firm believer that high quality recruitment and training results in excellent care for her clients.

Home Instead Senior Care offer a wide range of non-medical services from companionship and help around the home to intensive, daily personal care. “Because of the kind of care we offer, it is absolutely essential that the right carer is matched to each client with their individual needs as a priority,” commented Gail, “For us, care and companionship go hand in hand in visits that last a minimum of one hour. We make sure our care givers feel valued and respected and part of a bigger mission. They are the backbone of our organisation and are carefully recruited for their empathy and compassion.”

A LOCAL BUSINESS FOR LOCAL PEOPLE Now with showrooms in Desborough, Corby and the centre of Market Harborough, Care and Mobility are able to offer free advice and guidance on their full range of new and reconditioned scooters, power chairs,

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FRIENDLY ASSISTANCE Susan Seed began running her Housekeepers of Rutland company on her own but her approach was so successful she now employs eight members of staff. When clients began asking for additional services she also launched Clean Living which provides a network of support she describes as being “The sort of things a good neighbour would do. We offer transport to and from shopping trips or to clubs and societies or take clients to various appointments or just out for coffee if they wish.” Susan’s team can make all the difference to elderly people who are happy living independently but sometimes require a little friendly assistance getting around.

A HOME FROM HOME Sibbertoft Manor is a Nursing and Residential Care Home which comes very highly recommended and is home to forty residents some of whom require high quality day-to-day care - others, care of a more specialist kind. The environment is private and unobtrusive with the atmosphere described as being more like a high quality hotel than a care home. Residents are free to come and go as they please, so also are relatives and friends. Unsurprisingly Sibbertoft Manor has won many awards for the high quality of life they deliver including the Four Roses award, the top honour awarded by Northamptonshire County Council for their continuing high standards of care.

DIRECTORY Always Take Care Tel: 01572 869138 www.alwaystakecare.co.uk Belton House Tel: 01572 717682 www.beltonhouse.co.uk Bluebird Care Tel: 01780 480881 www.bluebirdcarestamford.co.uk Care and Mobility Tel: 01536 764700 www.a6mobility.co.uk Home Instead Care Tel: 01858 540317 www.homeinstead.co.uk House Keepers of Rutland/Clean Living Tel: 01780 721100/ 079681 20990 Manor House Residential Tel: 01536 771 722 www.autumn-care.co.uk MHA Welland Place –Tel: 01858 412060 www.mha.org.uk Oak House Residential Home Tel: 01572 812647 www.oakhouse-carehome.co.uk Rutland Care Solutions Tel: 01572 720705 www.rutlandcaresolutions.com Sibbertoft Manor Nursing and Residential Care Home Tel: 01858 881304 www.sibbertoftmanor.com

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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Oak House Residential Care Home for the Elderly

Award Winning Care Home A GOLD STANDARD CARE AGENCY

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Phone Heather to discuss our friendly personal service

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Respite care & long term care (subject to availability) Call or email now To request a brochure or for more information

please telephone us on 01572 812647 or e-mail us on info@oakhouse-carehome.co.uk

www.oakhouse-carehome.co.uk Pond Lane, Greetham, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 7NW

Move into one of our new, modern apartments, enabling you to live your own life and retain your independence in a quaint village setting. There I promised she and wouldn’t are a choice of suites mu withmcare security on into a care home… hand 24 hours agoday.

Enjoy fresh home cooked cuisine made to your taste and never worry about the laundry or cleaning.

Couples can continue living together at no extra PAYING FOR CARE cost and spend quality time together taking part in Depending on the complexity of your health activities or simply relaxing and enjoying each care needs, it may be possible that the NHS other’s company in our beautiful grounds.

Thanks to Autu mn Assisted Apartments should be paying for your care at home or I’ve been able to keep that promise in a care home. It is also possible to reclaim Leaving the family home to move into a care home £ Aleisha from care fees paid retrospectively. can be a daunting prospect, moving into a one or two bed serviced apartment with lounge, diner, The Care Advice Centre has helped many kitchenette, and en suite bathroom at Autumn Assisted is a reassuring cost effective alternative families to reclaim substantial amounts from only £495 per week per apartment all inclusive. of care fees paid.

Set in beautifully landscaped gardens our

All of this for 395 per apartment per week inclusive of all costs.

Call 01536 771722 for a free trial or Email frances@autu mn-care.co.uk apartments offer 24 hour security with nurse call Autumn Assisted Living • Manor House • 58-60 Main Street • Middleton • Market Harborough • LE16 8YU

and intercom service, chef, complete laundry and Aleisha also provides independent advice cleaning service, utility bills, council tax and much more included in the price.

Tel - 01536 www.autumn-care.co.uk on all care issues, including setting 771722 up care Our professionally trained carers are on site 24 hours packages at home or helping to find an a day to assist you at your request and a private is available for shopping or social visits. appropriate care home.

The Orchards Specialist Dementia Unitminibus Tel - 01536 771722

m nHouse Assisted, a n or Houdementia se, 58-60unit M afor i n people Street, in the For a free initial chat please call Aleisha The Orchards Unit atAutu Manor is a M specialist Middleton, M a rket Ha rborou gh, LE16 8 Y U on 01572 720705 or email her at advanced stages of the condition with complex behavioural problems. condition opportunity visit www. a utu mann-ca re. co. u k to live their lives aleisha@care-advice-centre.co.uk We offer Residents with a life limiting as fully as their condition allows.771722 or e ma il: kira n@rklventu re s. co m ca ll 01536

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Our aim is to provide a quality of care that is person centred, seeing each Resident as unique with individual physical, social, psychological, emotional 45 and spiritual needs.

Well-trained, professional staff that are supportive and empathetic to residents, 20/01/2016 families and friends.

10:26

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Please email or call me on 07932 055548 to book a photoshoot or for more information. ellideanphotography.co.uk

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13/3/14 11:09:34 20/01/2016 10:26

FREE mini

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• RL Feb ADS.indd 47

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20/01/2016 10:26

L OC AL W AL K

Foxton Locks and the Laughton Hills This walk has everything you could wish for. A chance to watch narrowboats navigating the ten staircase Foxton Locks, plenty of gradients and a charming walk along the towpath.

POINTS OF INTEREST Foxton Locks is a staircase of ten locks which was built in 1814 to link Market Harborough to the Grand Union canal.

It’s fun to watch the narrow boats negotiating the flight. Each boat takes about 50 minutes from top to bottom (or vica versa). The Foxton Canal Museum is open weekends in the winter 11am-4pm.

Tel: 0116 279 2657.

WALK DATA Distance: 6.5 miles Typical time: 2.5 hours OS map: Explorer 223, Landranger141 Start & finish: Foxton Locks Car Park (payment) Terrain: Plenty of contours, and muddy in places Stiles: Many Getting there: Foxton Locks is four miles to the SW of Market Harborough, justW of Foxton village

Gumley is an ancient village. There is evidence of a defensive ditch on the boundary of the village. Gumley was a meeting-place for the witanagemot (assembly) of the kings of Mercia in the 8th century. factfile

REFRESHMENTS Foxton Locks Inn: Tel: 0116 279 1515 www.restaurantfoxtonlocks.co.uk Food. Light refreshments also available at both the top and bottom of the locks – lots of chatracter The Bell Inn at Gumley (Tel: 0116 27924, www.thebellinngumley.co.uk ) is a lovely early 19th century village pub which welcomes walkers.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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DIRECTIONS 1

Gumley Gumley Covert

7 6

Laughton 4

9

8

Foxton Locks 10

Gumley Lodge

1

5

3 Kicklewell Spinney 2 Bridge 51

Laughton Manor Farm

Grand Union Canal

Laughton Road

Set out from the Foxton Locks Car Park along a path which runs alongside the road.

On reaching the canal bridge, turn south (left) along the towpath and follow this along a most agreeable route for 2.5 miles until you reach Bridge 51.

Once under bridge 51, turn off the towpath, go over the bridge and follow a footpath up the hill. At the stile, bear diagonally to the left along the ridge, and then at the next stile hug the side of the wood; this path shortly come to a road.

Turn right along the road, and after about 100 yards the path takes off to the left (N) across a series of fields; the path is well marked. On entering the fourth field, the path cuts sharp left across the field towards Laughton village. Cross the footbridge (very slippy indeed) and continue heading straight for the village.

The path goes to the right of a sandcoloured house, through a gate and onto the village street; go right and then take the first right; after a few yards you will see the path taking off to your right, through a very muddy horses’ paddock.

The path heads diagonally across a field and, just to the right of a dead tree trunk, you will see a footpath sign; cross the road, and this path now runs in a delightful fashion NE for about 1.25 miles until you pass Gumley Lodge on your right.

Just after Gumley Lodge take the path which goes diagonally left towards a metal gate (do not go onto the small road on the right).

At the next stile, go straight on up the very steep slope, and you soon reach a gate leading to Gumley Village; the path goes between a hedge and a fence.

Turn left and then immediately right in the main street, and follow the very wellmarked path back towards the canal.

At the canal, cross over by the very narrow elevated footbridge, turn right along the footpath and follow it until you reach Rainbow Bridge and the Foxton Locks Inn ahead of you.

Cross this bridge, follow the towpath on the other side, and very son you will come to the staircase of locks. Amble slowly up (museum halfway up on left).

After the locks you shortly reach another bridge, go under it and then turn immediately left to get you back to the car park.

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4 5

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20/01/2016 18:04

N O OW PE N

UNCOVERED! Visit Barefoot’s new bed showroom now and say no to sleepless nights.

You can create your own, bespoke design using luxury, handmade Somnus beds – complete with a mattress filled with 100% natural material. Innovation, quality and reduced carbon production are the hallmarks of Somnus.

Visit Beds@Barefoot today and rest assured that you’ll receive the unrivalled personal service, commitment to competitive pricing and familybusiness touch that our flooring customers enjoy.

FREE CAR PARKING OUTSIDE OUR STORE Open: Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 4pm Unit 13 Midland Court, Station Approach, Oakham, Rutland

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• RL Feb ADS.indd 50

20/01/2016 10:26

SH OP S & SE R V I CE S

Best Foot Forward with Barefoot Oakham based business, Barefoot, owned by Mark Tilson and Lisa Gray, has a lot to celebrate this month

I

N the last few years Barefoot has gone from strength to strength.

Mark proudly reports that Barefoot was a success from month one - a fabulous achievement for a startup business. And no surprise as the company’s ethos is to help customers make the most of their budget, to guarantee competitive prices and ensure that every step is easy and hassle free. In year two, the company rented a warehouse and invested in racking to allow for the storage the growing business needed. They also bought a truck, which can be seen driving around Rutland in order for Mark to be able get to all of his appointments whatever the weather! In 2015 Barefoot doubled its floor space as Mark and Lisa knocked through into the adjoining unit and remodelled the new showroom, meaning that they can now offer double the amount of carpets, LVTs and laminates.

Free fitting on many of their lines.

Building on this success, 2016 sees Lisa and Mark branching out. Still under the Barefoot brand, and with the same commitment to customer care, Lisa and Mark are proud to be launching Beds@Barefoot. Lisa explains, “A bed shop was always what we wanted to do next as it goes hand in hand with what we are doing now and, hopefully, we will be giving the residents of Rutland even more scope for shopping locally”.

Mark has many years of experience selling beds and Lisa is very much looking forward to some professional training at a farm in Derbyshire owned by Somnus. “Somnus, one of our carefully chosen suppliers, grow their own hemp and even breed their own sheep for the wool that goes into the mattresses; this way they are in control of the quality of their products from source and it is environmentally friendly too,” explains Lisa.

A great deal of thought and attention has gone into planning the bed showroom and building work commenced early last month so that the showroom will be ready to open its doors on February 1st.

Mark and Lisa are committed to delivering a first class service in both businesses and are taking great pleasure in being able to invest in the local economy, as well as investing in their own future. “We are very proud of our achievements so far and excited about the future of the Barefoot brand.”

The store will showcase divans, frames and mattresses from leading manufacturers such as Somnus and Hestia. Says Mark “Available to order immediately, you can soon say no to sleepless nights when you buy our beds. Choose from the luxurious handmade selection of Somnus beds where you can create a bespoke bed with a production process that has a reduced carbon footprint and mattresses with 100% natural fillings or from Hestia, the UK’s largest manufacturer, which offers many options including a vast choice of frames, divans and designs. Your bedroom. Your choice!”

Beds@Barefoot is backed by the personal service, commitment to competitive pricing and family-business touch that Mark and Lisa’s current flooring customers enjoy.

We wish them luck!

• Open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday and 9am to 4pm on Saturday.

Call, Tel: 01572 759752 or email: info@barefoot-flooring.biz, www.barefoot-flooring.biz RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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DAY O UT

The Civil War Gallery is light, bright and packed with interest

Newark: showing off its history The National Civil War Centre in Newark is the first museum in the UK dedicated to telling the full story of the British Civil Wars. Sue Dobson thinks it’s well worth a visit

A

N epic and deadly struggle between King and Parliament in the 17th century, the British Civil War was the most devastating conflict in our nation’s history. It shaped our modern world yet surprisingly, until the £5.4m National Civil War Centre opened in Newark last year, there was nowhere in the UK that told its full story from start to finish.

The National Civil War Centre is housed in the restored Old Magnus building on Appletongate, a building that began life in 1529 as a Tudor grammar school, with additions in the Georgian and Victorian eras. The renovation has included a modern new section linking the historic rooms and resulting in a light, bright and inviting experience for visitors.

Telling the story of the civil wars in Britain and Ireland between 1638 and 1653, the Centre is packed with fascinating finds. There’s the petition from the people of Lincolnshire,

52

delivered to the King in Newark, wishing him to reconcile with Parliament; and an exquisitely written letter from Newark’s governor asking the King’s soldier nephew, the dashing Prince Rupert of the Rhine, for help. Among the remarkable collection of coins are gold Unites, struck for Charles’ coronation, and a selection of rare siege coins, cut from ‘liberated’ silver into diamond shapes to reduce wastage and bearing the legend Newark OBS, an abbreviation from the Latin for ‘under siege’.

These were minted in Newark during the third siege, used to pay troops and issued to locals to buy food.

Colourful recreated banners of the warring factions hang from the ceiling and the complexities of the bloody conflict are explained well in displays that span arms and armour, cannonballs and clothing, storyboards, maps and models, pictures and period printed pamphlets. Scary looking surgical instruments

Heavy gold ‘Unite’ coins, dating from the 1620s, were struck to mark the unification of the crowns of England and Scotland include amputation saws and a musket ball extractor and there’s a gruesome hand brand that was used on felons and deserters. The palms of the men who suffered this treatment were permanently tattooed with an image of the crown.

The Centre uses objects alongside human stories from people in Newark and the surrounding area, so there is much that is personal about the exhibits. One poignant memento is a gold and enamel posy ring inscribed with the words ‘Let no calamity separate our amity’. Thanks to the quite recent discovery of boxes of Civil War period

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Diamond shaped ‘siege’ coins, minted to pay troops and locals, came in several denominations and varied in weight according to their value

The buff coat worn by the Nottingham regicide Colonel Francis Hacker, who fought for Parliament while his brothers supported the King. Press-ganged into signing the King’s death warrant, he attended the execution, accompanying Charles I as he walked to the scaffold documents, including accounts, receipts, petitions and bills, the story of the sieges is told from the perspective of ordinary citizens.

As well as looking and learning, visitors can dress up in 17th century-style clothing, try on and feel the weight of armour, wield replica weapons and become a virtual gunner.

A small cinema with expansive screens shows short professionally-made and acted films – so good they won two awards at the Cannes Film Festival last year. If you’ve got questions, the volunteer guides are friendly and knowledgeable.

Elsewhere in the building, attractivelyrenovated rooms host changing exhibitions, talks and events. Up in the attic, formerly the dormitory of the Old Magnus School, look for the graffiti and clearly visible names of R Disney 1608 and W B Darwin 1790. Two rooms off the Tudor Hall – not well signed, so do ask for direction – house the Newark Galleries, packed with local and social history spanning 2000 years. Among the artefacts on display are the press used to print the first two editions of Lord Byron’s poems and the spectacular Newark Torc, one of the finest Iron Age relics ever discovered in Britain.

• The National Civil War Centre, 14 Appletongate, Newark NG24 1JY. Tel: 01636 655765 (Newark Tourist Information Centre). Open daily 10am-4pm (5pm from March). Entry costs £7 adult, £6 concessions, £3 children 5-16 years, free to under-5s. The free (300MB) NCWT: National Civil War Trail app for smartphones and tablets (Android and iOS) can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com.

17th century surgical instruments evoke the horrors of war

A model of sconces: earthwork defences considered to be more resistant to bombardment than solid walls. Newark has the best-preserved Civil War earthworks in the country

Newark’s story Staunchly Royalist, Newark’s importance in the Civil War lay in its location. At the crossroads of the Great North Road and Fosse Way, it provided a key crossing point over the River Trent. The town underwent three sieges; the third, in the harsh winter of 1645-6, saw 16,000 Parliamentarian and Scottish troops seal off the town and dam the river to prevent water mills from producing bread and gunpowder. A third of the population died – as much from starvation, plague and typhus as the fighting – and one in six buildings were destroyed.

The six-month siege ended in May 1646, when the embattled King Charles surrendered to the Scots at Newark. Among the artillery pieces the 1800 half-starved and disease-ridden Cavaliers left behind when they marched out was a cannon known as Sweet Lips. From the Parliamentarian stronghold of Hull and captured during the second siege, it was named after a favourite prostitute said to service both sides. Rampant disease probably saved Newark from further disaster, for the victors steered clear of the town rather than plunder and burn it to the ground, as would have been expected under the usual rules of war at that time.

“It was a cruel conflict in which four per cent of the population died,” says Centre Director Michael Constantine (above). “Brother took up arms against brother and the lives of ordinary people were shattered. No village, hamlet or town escaped the turmoil. Newark’s capitulation signalled the end of what is often called the First Civil War. Within three years, King Charles was executed by Parliament. When the Royalists initially debated their King’s order to surrender Newark, the defiant Mayor said it was better to ‘Trust in God and Sally Forth’, a sentiment that has become the town’s motto.”

Explore the town

With a splendid market place at its heart, historic buildings and narrow winding streets lined with independent shops, galleries and cafés, Newark is an attractive town to visit. Download the Centre’s free ‘augmented reality’ app and take the town trail that brings Newark’s involvement in the Civil War to life.

Short films illustrate the dramas that took place in the buildings you are facing, including torch-wielding troops massing outside the Norman castle (where King John died in 1216) and King Charles and Prince Rupert having a blazing row in the Governor’s House (above what is now a branch of Greggs). There are plenty of good places for a bite to eat as you wander. Try Stray’s on Middlegate, a deservedly popular coffee bar wrapped around a bookshop.

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CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING • I wish my carpet was cleaned & stain guarded • I wish my leather sofa was cleaned & conditioned • I wish my oriental rug was cleaned & moth treated • I wish my natural stone floor was cleaned & sealed If you wish for the best cleaning for your fine fabrics, then please call us.

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SH OP S & SE R V I CE S

A Clean Sweep Start the new season with a spring clean and blow the winter cobwebs away. Start at the top and work your way down, ensuring you de-clutter along the way. If it all sounds like too much of a mountain to climb, don’t despair, there are local professionals on hand to take on the hard work for you. Michelle Hansel uncovers…

W

HEN it comes to the kitchen, cleaning your oven is a must at this time of year. Oven Fairy can tackle your grease-laden oven in some quick and easy steps.

The oven cleaning process by Oven Fairy: • Put down protective sheets around the working area and remove all parts internally from the oven.

• Removed parts are placed in specialist dipping tanks.

• Clean the carcass of the oven by hand • Retrieve the parts from the tank, rinse and dry them and refit to the oven.

• Everything is then polished.

If you want to keep your trusty Aga shipshape then call in Martin Walsh. He can install, service and maintain your Aga for you, ensuring it remains reliable. “We offer a great independent service at excellent rates, specialising in installing, servicing and maintaining Gas, Oil and Solid fuel Aga range cookers and Rayburn range cookers. With 12 years experience and carrying all legitimate Aga range cooker spare parts for regular servicing and maintenance, you can feel confident that your Aga will be looked after by a professional.”

Weaver (UK) Ltd are local expects in both stone floor TRIED and carpet cleaning & throughout Rutland TESTED and beyond. Weaver use modern techniques to produce lasting results from honing, polishing, epoxy filling to restoring stone floors that have been damaged by fires. Says David Weaver, “We’re adept at working with a range of materials whether you’re the proud owner of limestone or you want to nurture and wax your terracotta, our stone floor experts here to help.” Also proficient in carpet cleaning, David and his team can tackle any job from a routine clean to a red wine spillage or any pet or kiddy mishap: “Whether you spilled red wine on a white rug or you’re desperate to get your carpet clean before the landlord comes round, our carpet cleaning services can save you,” asserts David.

If you are currently unwell, have a low immune system, have babies or are elderly Merry Maids or Rutland not only clean, they can help protect your home from potentially dangerous bacteria, such as MRSA, C-Difficile and E-Coli using specialist cleaning products that incorporate “Hygienilac” a unique antimicrobial agent that prevents bacteria’s

access to nutrients so that they starve and die. “Independently tested and approved by the NHS, our cleaning products are 99.9% effective against a long list of bacteria” All the maids are trained in Health and Safety regulations and procedures for the correct use of products and equipment so can rest assured your home is in good hands.

When was the last time you had your chimney swept? Avondale Sweeps offer a chimney sweeping service covering the whole of Northamptonshire, Rutland and the surrounding counties.

They sweep open fires, all kinds of multi-fuel and woodburning stoves. Chimneys are swept using state of the art equipment including a full inspection and a smoke evacuation test. “At the end of the sweep we issue a fully recognised industry standard Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps Certificate. The Certificate is recognised by insurance companies”. Also available are CCTV Camera Inspections.

Susan Garon, owner of Molly Maid, South Leicester and Market Harborough knows what a struggle it can be to take on the whole task of spring cleaning yourself, “Hiring in outside help to get on top of the housework could be the perfect solution for many families who would rather make the most of their spare time outside of work” Top 6 tips for spring cleaning by Molly Maid: 1. Declutter - clear out unwanted items 2. Simplify your products - go for quality rather than quantity 3. Use the MOLLY MAID system - clean from the top level of your house to the bottom and in each room, clean from the top to bottom starting on the left and moving right.

4. Dust THEN vacuum.

5. The best dust cloth is a clean, damp, microfibre cloth.

6. Don’t forget the windows. Streaks on windows are tricky to eliminate- wipe glass interiors horizontally and exterior vertically. This way, it will be easy to determine if the streaks are on the inside or outside.

DIRECTORY: Weaver (UK) Ltd, Tel: 01572 759 899, davidweaver@btinternet.com, www.weaverltd.co.uk Oven Fairy, Tel: 01572 767678, nick@ovenfairy.co.uk, www.ovenfairy.co.uk Molly Maid, Tel: 01858 439925, susan.garon@mollymaid.co.uk, www.mollymaid.co.uk Avondale Sweeps, Tel: 01536 510865, www.chimneysweepnorthants.co.uk Merry Maids of Rutland, Tel: 0800 085 5632, www.merry-maids.net Knights of Oakham, Tel: 01572 722240, www.knightsofoakham.com Martin Walsh, Aga Engineer, Tel: 07735 304452 or (0116) 2813219 Email: martinsagaservice@hotmail.co.uk, www.aga-servicing-leicestershire.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING FEBRUARY 2016

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L OC AL P EOPLE

Tom Scott There has been much evolution over the years at Swans of Oakham – not least in the last twelve months which has seen the showroom move from Mill Street to a new location on the High Street. Tom Scott talks to Amander Meade about international trading, television and keeping one step ahead of the trends

T

OM is one of five sons brought up by Peter and Linda Jones who have run some of the best known businesses in Rutland during the last 40 years. Most renowned is the wonderful antiques and interiors emporium, Swans of Oakham. Having been roped in to help from a young age, Tom ‘failed to escape quickly enough’ and began working full time alongside Peter, learning the antiques business from the ground up around twenty years ago at the same time as a curious new gadget called ‘the internet’ looked as though it might turn out to be interesting.

“Although at first the net didn’t seem as if it would translate particularly well to the antiques trade, we decided we would get on line as soon as we could and the business was transformed literally overnight as a result,” remembers Tom. “We always had, and still retain, a very loyal local clientele but our on-line presence took us from a local business and put our stock in front of an international audience which was phenomenal. We now have clients all over the world as well as the length and breadth of the UK which is what has allowed us to grow and not get stuck in the retail graveyard that has claimed so many traditional antiques dealers.

Two years ago when Linda decided to retire, she and Peter moved out of their town centre mews house, relocating to sample village life. That was the catalyst for QUICK FIRE the transfer of the showroom which is now sited FAVOURITES… across three storeys of their former home on Oakham’s High Street. “We took the decision to Favourite spot in the region? move here and it has been a great step for us,” Eyebrook Lake as I do lots of states Tom. “The light and space are so much fly fishing and love the views better and the furnishings, lighting and accessories around that part of the world. lend themselves to being displayed in a real home.

Favourite place to eat?

Customers can visualise how things might look in The Olive Branch, Clipsham. their own home much more easily from a living Favourite local business? space.” The move was typical of how the family Oakham Rugs is a brilliant never allow stagnation to hold back the business shop with beautiful products; and are planning another large showroom opening I also collect paintings and this spring at their warehouse base at Pillings Road ceramics from Dick Clarke’s which will allow them to expand the range even Old House Gallery and more and has great parking facilities too.

Goldmark’s in Uppingham.

According to Tom one of the main changes in interior styling over the last fifteen years has been the move towards a much lighter, warmer and eclectic style. “Years ago nobody combined two styles or put period furniture with more contemporary pieces. Now we all mix things up a lot more and antiques have benefitted by a more relaxed attitude to using them in all kinds of situations and alongside newer furniture. Lighting too has exploded in terms of sales – our range of imported Italian lamps has become so popular we are now the major distributor in the UK. The interest in vintage and antique furniture and accessories shows no sign of abating as Tom discovered when he was offered some TV presenting work recently for the BBC’s Antiques Road Trip and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth is. “The TV work takes me away from home but is great fun and I would definitely like to do more if I got the chance”.

• Visit the Swans of Oakham showroom at 76 High Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AS Tel: 01572 724364 www.swansofoakham.co.uk

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HE AL T H I SSU E S

Psychology Explored…

Johan Truter works within adult psychology and established his Clinical Psychology practice in 2007.

Alongside him works Dr Alexandra Dent who also has her own practice in Melton Mowbray; Alexandra works in adult and child psychology with a special interest in trauma. Also involved is Suzanna Watson who specialises in helping children with brain injuries. They create between them a broad network of expert knowledge and are available to consult in Stamford. Amander Meade asks the questions therapist?’ In our professional opinion, the right choice is whoever the client would feel most comfortable with.

Johan Truter WHAT EXACTLY IS PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPY? Psychological therapy creates a safe, nonjudgemental space in which a person can explore, learn, develop and understand the psychological difficulties they experience – like helping a person complete a jigsaw puzzle of their lives. Some people enter therapy as they do not understand what is happening to them and others because they know the reasons for their difficulties but are not able to manage a change. We look at what underlies a person’s mental health and once we have a detailed history of our client we tailor a unique therapeutic package of care.

There are numerous different therapies available now and it can be confusing to know what they all mean. Some of the most common recognisable ones are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness. A broad training in different therapies enables us to work out what package of care would be most effective for each individual.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A THERAPIST? Therapy is a two way process and the relationship between client and therapist is crucial. During the initial appointment the client needs to ask themselves whether they felt comfortable with the therapist. Is it a safe space to discuss difficult issues? Is the therapist respectful and non-judgmental? Therapy is not always a comfortable process but it should empower the client with time. Sometimes the question is asked ‘do I choose a male or female

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WHAT KIND OF CONDITIONS OR SYMPTOMS CAN BE IMPROVED BY SEEKING THE HELP OF A PSYCHOLOGIST? There are many different conditions or difficulties including depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, relationships difficulties or abuse. Most of us will experience such difficulties at some time throughout our lives. It could be more helpful to view mental health as a healthy reaction to unhealthy circumstances. For example, if I experienced a trauma it is usual to feel anxious as a consequence. If we are over worked and

sleep deprived it may lead to anxiety and depression. Psychological therapy helps to assist in breaking the negative cycle and helps to establish new, healthier patterns.

DO PEOPLE GENERALLY WAIT TOO LONG TO SEEK HELP? Yes, it seems people do postpone therapy for different reasons. Mental health difficulties can leave us feeling out of control and a person may worry that talking to a therapist will only exacerbate this feeling. With anxiety and depression in particular, the more we struggle on alone, the worse it gets.

WILL I BE LABELLED ‘MENTALLY ILL’ IF I SEEK HELP? Initially, clients often feel a sense of shame by seeking help – ‘I have given in’ (failed). Once they understand the therapeutic process, perceptions change. As mental health difficulties erode our confidence having our feelings recognised by a professional is always helpful – it’s good to know that you are not alone in experiencing particular thoughts or feelings. Any information discussed is kept confidential unless a person is at risk of being harmed or is threatening to harm someone else – all of which is explained at the first session.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY FIRST VISIT? The first assessment session allows you the space and time to communicate your difficulties as well as a detailed background history. At the end of the initial assessment, you will receive a generalised summary of the psychologist’s clinical impressions as well as an indication of what types of intervention may be most suitable.

Therapy will be kept under regular review to make sure that both client and therapist are working towards the same goals and a successful outcome.

Dr Alexandra Dent

Contact: Johan Truter Tel: 01780 758556 www.psychologistuk.co.uk Dr Alexandra Dent Tel: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

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OPEN MORNING Tuesday 23rd February 2016 9.00a.m.—11.30a.m.

Come and see what makes our school and nursery outstanding. Let us show you why our boys and girls thrive and succeed. Discuss the opportunities and experiences that your son or daughter could enjoy.

Learn about our Introduction Morning on Saturday, 27th February.

Seize the chance to let us meet your child and recognise their potential.

For further information, please call Wendy on 01572 724778

Brooke Priory School

Oakham, Rutland, I.A.P.S. Preparatory School for boys and girls aged 2 –11 years www.brooke.rutland.sch.uk

Open Morning 12 March Magical memories, Learning for life

Co-educational Day and Boarding Preparatory School, near Rugby

www.biltongrange.co.uk 61

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P ROF I L E

Leon Lloyd Former England international rugby star Leon Lloyd has turned his considerable talent towards writing, training and motivational speaking. He tells Amander Meade all about his new book ‘Life After Sport: From Bootroom to Boardroom’ Why did you decide to take a different approach to the usual post-rugby autobiography?

Having signed professionally for Leicester Tigers at the age of sixteen, I was fortunate to have a successful career, winning 11 trophies and playing for Gloucester and England, so I wanted to be able to give a bit back to the game and the next generation of players. I decided to write the book with a view both to help people better prepare for life after sport and also to allow those on the outside a view of what it can be like performing constantly under intense pressure and the media spotlight. I wanted to share some real examples of the extreme highs and desperate lows that are experienced.

LIFE AFTER SPORT FROM BOOT ROOM TO BOARD ROOM

The book is bound to be useful to sportsmen and women – are there elements that apply to everyone making changes in their careers? bodies such as the Rugby Players Association Definitely. When playing professional sport, you Did you expect the immediate interest in and and also for businesses that are looking are in a privileged position, often protected in success of the book? for a presentation focussing on topics such a recession-proof bubble. When that bubble I am pleased to say that when the book as working under pressure, bursts, it is rarely under your control and was launched on dealing with setbacks, change having to join the real world and find a proper Amazon / Kindle it SPORT management, team work and job is a very difficult transition. ThereLIFE are AFTER went quickly into ROOM leadership. This is the exciting certain key skills that you learn alongFROM the way BOOT the number one BOARD ROOMsport’s part and is also part of the reason but may not be aware of which can beTO of great downloaded I wanted to write this book. The value if converted correctly, and if identified LEON LLOYD book, receiving similarities between elite sports’ by you or your employer. However, we all tend some very positive people and successful business to fear change whether that’s changing from customer feedback people are vast and this has junior school to senior school or considering from current and provided a platform for me on applying for that much wanted promotion; former sportsmen which to demonstrate. I have it’s the fear of the unknown and not being and women but also highlighted what players sacrafice completely in control that gives us that nervous from the world of in order to achieve success, which feeling in our stomachs. The book aims to help business and other further demonstrates that a slight understand how to turn the fear into adrenaline general supporters.

Sporting celebrities can experience amazing highs during change in the environment or and convert that into excitement in order to To be honest, I their careers but, when that part of their existence comes to LIFE AFTER SPORT an end, they may encounter awasn’t period of low self-esteem and mindset is sometimes all that is make smoother transitions. that surprised wonder what life now has to offer. This book illustrates how FROM BOOT ROOM that change can lead to something really positive – and it required to get to the next level. about the reaction could equally prove to be of interest to non-sportsmen and TO BOARD ROOM well. from athletes Retirement is often a tricky time for anyone womenitas got LEON LLOYD ‘Life After Sport: From leaving a career they have loved; sportsmen because when I Bootroom to Boardroom’ can be tend to retire earlier – will the book help retired I looked for downloaded from Amazon for people making that transition? something similar £12.95 £4.65 or hard copies available I certainly hope so - if it gets people to be more and there wasn’t at Leon’s website, Waterstones, realistic about the length of their careers and anything out there, Highcross or the Leicester Tigers Club Shop. prompts them to put things in place before which gave me the impetus to fill the gap. their sporting career is over, then it will have • To contact Leon for motivational speaking, served its purpose. Too many wait until it’s all How is life for you outside the professional training or presentations E: leon@leonlloyd. over before thinking about the next phase of game and what comes next for you? their lives, which we all hope is a far longer The book has opened up a host of opportunities co.uk or visit www.leonlloyd.co.uk period than that of their first career. through engaging with sporting governing We R Publishing Ltd

LEON LLOYD

@leonlloyd13

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CARPENTRY

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