Market Harborough Living January 2017 by Best Local Living

MARKET

HARBOROUGH LIVING Covering Market Harborough, surrounding villages & Rutland

A fresh start

JANUARY 2017 Â£1.50

Your local guide to loving life in 2017

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GET IN TOUCH: marketharboroughliving.co.uk

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OA K H A M R U G S est. 1993 The finest selection of hand knotted rugs in the area. Traditional and Contemporary. New and Old.

www.oakhamrugs.co.uk mail@oakhamrugs.co.uk OPEN TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 10.00AM TO 5.00PM 6 The Maltings, off Mill St, Oakham, Rutland. LE15 6EA 01572 724441 Oakham Oriental Rugs Ltd t/as Oakham Rugs

RUT LAND & M AR K E T H A R BO R O U G H LIV ING

January Contents www.rutlandliving.co.uk www.marketharboroughliving.co.uk

There’ll be no January blues here!

ELCOME to the first issue of Rutland & Market Harborough Living of 2017. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are feeling refreshed and recharged for the upcoming year. If not, fear not! This month’s issue is packed full of tips to get you back on your A-game. At Rutland & Market Harborough Living, we’re embracing the Danes’ approach of Hygge – turn to page 20 to find out what it’s all about, and how to pronounce it.

4 Editor’s Selection 6 Updates Shops & Services

8 Fashion

New year, new outlook, new style

11 Local Business Oakham Enterprise Park

14 Shopping

45 Food & Drink Food News

49 Harborough Happenings Shops & Services

52 Local History Votes for Women!

54 Food & Drink

Manor Farm Cookery School

Adam & Eve Street

18 Updates

Shops & Services

20 Lifestyle New year hygge

25 Health and Beauty So head outdoors for a yomp across the fields, then get back home and settle under a blanket, light a fire, enjoy a drink and get cosy. January shouldn’t be about depriving yourself, but nourishing yourself. That’s my motto anyway… Wishing you all the happiest and healthiest of years in 2017,

Healthy body, healthy mind

Rachael

What’s on this month

@RutlandLiving @rutlandlivingmag INCORPORATING

Village Lifestyle

28 Out & About Birds of a feather

32 Staycations

Home is where the heart is

35 Out & About 36 Local Walk

The country’s first trig point

40 Local People Lucinda Riley

43 Updates

Shops & Services

Editor Rachael Bull 07734 218155 rachaelbull@bestlocalliving.co.uk 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 Designer Sarah Compton inkdesign@virginmedia.com Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne RL cover: © Andrew James www.andrewjamesphotos.co.uk MHL cover: Courtesy of Bigstock

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 JANUARY 2017

E D I T O R ’ S SEL EC T IO N

A few of my favourite things for the New Year Dhurrie bags from Le Jaana Le Jaana is a brand new Leicestershire-based company importing dhurries and dhurrie bags from India. Each piece is unique and lovingly handmade by local artists in Udaipur and designed by Laura in Leicestershire. With a variety of styles of bags and rugs available and a bespoke service for the rugs, you can choose any rug, any size, any pattern in any colour. Check out www.lejaana.com for more pics and email laura@lejaana.com to discuss your requirements.

Elizabeth Stanhope’s BIG sale at Ashley Village Hall Award-winning spots on our doorstep Big congrats to the winners at the Leicestershire Tourism Awards, including a few of our local favourites - Hothorpe Hall & The Woodlands, Farndon Fields Farm Shop, Wistow Maze and the Neville Holt Opera. We think you’re all brilliant! Read more about The Woodlands on our staycations feature on page 32.

Olive Branch

Lunch for even less If ever there was a time to make the most of the splendid eateries in our midst, it’s now – the Lunch for Even Less group is back, featuring incredible deals from The Olive Branch, Hart’s in Nottingham, Langar Hall, Hambleton Hall, The Marquess of Exeter, The Wicked Witch, The Wheatsheaf in Greetham and The Berkeley Arms. Page 45 has all the details. My new year’s resolution is to work through the lot of them by the end of February. Wish me luck!

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

There’s no need to battle through the crowds to get the best deals on your homewares. Oakham-based Elizabeth Stanhope is holding a pop-up sale on 6 and 7 January at Ashley Village Hall, a stone throw’s from Market Harborough. You’ll find huge discounts on stock items including fabric, furniture, lighting, glassware, cashmere, cushions, throws, candles – the list goes on! For more information 01572 722345 www. elizabethstanhope.co.uk Hambleton Hall

UPDATES Shops & Services

Community spirit in action

HE lovely team at FRC Timber Frames have donated and built a new playhouse for the Foundation Year children at Whissendine Church of England Primary School. Class teacher Tania Comber said “It is absolutely fabulous and we are completely thrilled. The children have been involved throughout the process, including coming up with some very creative design suggestions for FRC to consider.” Stuart and Thomas Kempin, owners of FRC added, “We wanted to support the community in which we live and work and were delighted to see how happy the children were at the grand opening.” • FRC Timber Frames, 01664 482082 www.frctimberframes.co.uk

New Everards Meadows store for Rutland Cycling

Arts for Rutland website relaunches

WEBSITE has launched offering a one-stop shop for arts events and information in Rutland. Arts for Rutland has relaunched its website, making it accessible and interactive and allowing organisers to add their own events, which will then be added to an online calendar of all arts activities in the area. As well as providing information for residents and tourists about what’s on in Rutland, the website also highlights grant schemes that are available, as well as access to free equipment that can be borrowed by event organisers in the county. Chairman of Arts for Rutland Joy Everitt said: “We’ve had our old website for nearly 10 years and it really needed updating. We’ve worked with another Rutland business, SRSN Design, to create an accessible website which can be viewed on laptops and tablets and is much easier to use.” Arts for Rutland is funded by Rutland County Council as well as other arts schemes and trusts. They run regular cinema nights at Rutland County Museum, which raise funds that are then invested back into the arts community in the county. Joy added: “The website will list all of our events with links to buy tickets, as well as those submitted by the community. “We hope it will prove to be a popular asset for people living in Rutland who are looking for something to do and for tourists as well. We have a very vibrant arts scene in Rutland and we now have the ability to promote it even further.” • Please add your events to the website at www.a4r.org.uk.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

UTLAND Cycling will open a 10,000 sq ft cycle centre at the new Everards Meadows country park, adjacent to Fosse Park, Leicester. The national award-winning Rutland family business will take their range of electric, road, mountain, hybrid and children’s bikes to Leicester in partnership with the family-owned Everards brewery. The store, due to open in Spring 2018, will offer Rutland’s unique model of hire, demo and retail in a newly-created country park, where purposebuilt cycle trails and cycle skills loops will link to the traffic-free Grand Central Way into Leicester city centre. Together, the two local businesses are investing over £1.6 million into the cycle centre and over 10 local jobs will be created by the new store alone. Stephen Gould, Everard’s Managing Director, said, “We are delighted to have Rutland Cycling working with us. Rutland’s family and local heritage, allied to their industry-leading retail experience, make the company an ideal partner for our exciting development at Everards Meadows. Sharing a passion for our local area, we both believe there is a fantastic opportunity to introduce more people to the joys of cycling in our region. The Park will not only feature a new brewery but also highquality restaurants, cafes and visitor experiences.” David Middlemiss, Managing Director of Rutland Cycling, explained, “We are extremely excited to be working in partnership with Everards on our latest store. We greatly look forward to getting more people on bikes in what is a beautiful part of the world, right on the doorstep of the City of Leicester. As a family business ourselves it’s a real pleasure to have the opportunity to work with an iconic regional brand who share our values of the highest customer service.” • www.rutlandcycling.com

E L A S G BI A S H L E Y

Nr MARKET HARBOROUGH, LEICS

FRIDAY 6 JANUARY 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM SATURDAY 7 JANUARY 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

HUGE DISCOUNTS ON STOCK ITEMS Fabric - Furniture - Lighting Glassware - Cashmere - Cushions Throws - Candles - Diffusers Faux Flowers - Home Accessories

Ashley Village Hall Main Street Ashley Nr Mkt Harboro’ LE16 8HG

Also lots of wonderful promotions in store throughout January including 10% off all orders (exc. paint)

For more information contact us: www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk 27 Mill St, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6EA 01572 722 345

FASHIO N

New Year, New Outlook, New Style! Treat yourself to a January wardrobe refresh with these fabulous pieces FASHION: NIKKI BEATTY PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN

Munthe dress, £169, Munthe cardigan, £195, Penelope Chilvers ankle boots, £199 all Cavells

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

Hartford jumper, £195, Bellerose skirt, £110, Inwear scarf, £54.95 all Vanilla ; Kennel & Schmenger boots, £169, CoCo

Bellerose shirt, £155, Bellerose skirt, £110, Olivia Burton watch, £75, bangle, £36 all Vanilla

Bellerose shirt and Hartford jumper, as before, Olivia Burton watch, as before, bangle, as before, all Vanilla

Lavand jumper, £62.99, Cream scarf, £29.99, both Duo, Mac grey jeans, £99, Vanilla, Paul Green boots, £165 CoCo

Munthe jumper, £179, For All Mankind jeans, £189, both Cavells

Lavand jumper, as before, Cream scarf, as before, both Duo, Mac jeans, as before, Vanilla

Joseph black jumper, £224, Luisa Cerano trousers, £249, both Cavells

Munthe jumper, as before, For All Mankind jeans, as before, both Cavells

Joseph black jumper, as before, Luisa Cerano trousers, as before, both Cavells

Shot on location at the Castle Cottage Cafe, Church Passage, Oakham, LE15 6DR, 01572 757952, www.castlecottagecafe.co.uk With thanks to: Steve and his team at the Castle Cottage Cafe who made us very welcome and supplied us with fantastic coffee all morning. Elli Dean for the amazing photography, www.ellideanphotography.co.uk STOCKISTS Duo, Oakham, Tel: 01572 2722116, www.duoboutique.co.uk Cavells, Oakham, Tel: 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk Vanilla, Oakham, Tel: 01572 757577, www.vanillaboutique.co.uk CoCo Shoes, Oakham, 01572 757646, www.cocooakham.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

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LOCA L B USI NESS

Business is flourishing for tenants on former prison site Nick Rennie meets James Frieland, the man who has spearheaded the transformation of the former Ashwell Prison into the thriving Oakham Enterprise Park, and some of his business tenants. PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN

T was once a prison and the scene of a notorious incident when hundreds of inmates rioted and burned down cellblocks. Seven years later, the high security fences topped with barbed wire remain but the site, on Ashwell Road on the outskirts of Oakham, is now home to 114 businesses. James Frieland remembers the day he first arrived at the former Ashwell Prison tasked with converting it into a site where Rutland’s small businesses could flourish. It was October 2013 and he was faced with a bleak and desolate scene where riots and fires had led to the jail being closed down three years before. “When I first arrived on the site there were five-foot weeds and razor wire all over the fences,” said James, who is asset investment manager for Rutland County Council and the man in charge at the enterprise park. “I’m a fairly optimistic person but there were times at the start when I thought I had bitten off more than I could chew.” He quickly decided that it was worth keeping some of the fencing because it would add an extra layer of security for tenants as well as lending a touch of character to the site. The Army were invited in to take down the barbed wire at the top of the fencing, which

Aluminium Eco Solutions sales director Mike Willars they treated as a training exercise. Four old, dilapidated cell blocks were demolished and other buildings converted into units and offices suitable for business use. Some of the old prison furniture was put in storage and eventually loaned out to tenants as companies began slowly to move onto the site two years ago. “We have just reached 100 per cent capacity, which is fantastic,” said James, who is assisted by site officer Steve Musson. “We’re still getting a lot of enquiries and we have a waiting list for units.” The park is home to an incredible breadth of different types of businesses. There is a classic car dealer, a wine importer, a dating agency and a range of manufacturing and engineering firms there. Other professions based there include

Rutland County Council asset investment manager James Frieland (left) and site officer Steve Musson

photography, graphic design, millinery, catering, accountancy and automotive repair. James said: “Of the 114 tenants here, 35 per cent are new start-ups and 24 per cent were existing Rutland businesses, some of whom were working from home initially but needed larger premises.” Businesses pay a market value rent and business rates according to the size of their unit.

“Rutland has one of the highest number of entrepreneurs in the country” Leases are flexible with a standard five-year term but built-in month break clauses for start-ups. Business advice is available on site for those who are setting up a new enterprise and others who need guidance. “Rutland has one of the highest number of entrepreneurs in the country and we are finding that lots of people want to start their own business,” said James.

Owner of Rutland Cake Company Naomi Morgan outside the new site café RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2015

➧ 11

LOCA L B USI NESS

SRSN directors Chris Strickland (left) and John Feetham (centre) with sales & advertising manager Tom Bentley

CARICONICS MD Daniel and Stephen Gannon “Our objective is not to make money. We want to create employment and support local businesses.” The site also has a sporting element, with hundreds of young gymnasts and judo players meeting with their clubs at the Active Rutland Hub. There is also a day nursery with a capacity of 70, where tenants and their employees can leave their children. And a café opened in December in a new structure built and run by the Rutland Cake Company. There are now plans to build warehousing units on three acres of the site. The old cell blocks are also providing an income for the park by being hired out to film crews for ‘a couple of thousand pounds’. The BBC recently used it for prison scenes in their top-rated drama Happy Valley, when a crew of 100 turned up. They have also been used by the makers of TV drama This Is England. As we chat in James’ office, which used to be the prison healthcare building, he is clearly proud of what has been achieved. He added: “There has been a lot of interest from government ministers because this is the first time this has been done in the UK with a former prison site. “There is a really nice, friendly small business community growing here where many of them do business with each other as well as further afield.”

The tenants:

Wandering around Oakham Enterprise Park, it quickly becomes apparent that it is home to an astonishing range of businesses. One of the tenants is CARICONICS run by father and son Stephen and Daniel Gannon. Their showroom unit, which they’ve occupied since March 2015, is a petrolhead’s dream, with a collection of Ferraris, Porsches and other classic cars on view. The duo concentrate on buying and selling iconic cars, rather than brands, with sale prices ranging from £500,000 down to £10,000. Customers visit by appointment only. Stephen said: “We use the old prison fences and buildings in the images of our cars on the website. “It is part of our brand, which has an urban edge to it. This location is great because it is so

secure and it’s got great access.” Another flourishing tenant on the site is Aluminium Eco Solutions (AES), which manufactures aluminium windows, doors and shop fronts. It re-located from a smaller unit near Market Harborough and has established lots of trade clients and local work, including at Catmose College in Oakham. James Willars is managing director and his father, Mike, is sales director. Mike said: “James (Frieland) and the council have bent over backwards to help us and we are delighted to be part of this site. “Security is an important aspect of the park and it’s got great character as well.” One of the more unusual businesses based there is The Gaol Events, which uses the former prison cell blocks and fences as the backdrop for customers to engage in Airsoft gun battles. It is used by people celebrating birthdays, stag parties and companies who want a team building exercise, as well as individual enthusiasts. Participants use a range of guns that fire spherical, non-metallic pellets. The dog section from the army barracks at North Luffenham also hires out the site for training exercises and it is also being used for paranormal evenings, with evidence of hauntings in one of the old jail blocks. Owner Justin Reffin, who has run the business there for more than two years, said: “It’s pretty unique here and the customers love

History of site:

1943 – Occupied as a US army base by the 82nd Airborne Division 1955 – Became an open prison for adult male prisoners 1987 – Converted to prison for adult male ‘Category C’ inmates 2009 – Major riot involving around 400 prisoners leads to 75 per cent of the site being uninhabitable 2011 – Prison closes because it would be too costly to renovate and repair 2013 – Rutland County Council acquires site from Ministry of Justice 2014 – Site re-opens as Oakham Enterprise Park

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

The Gaol Events owner Justin Reffin armed with one of his Airsoft guns it. We’re a destination site and a lot of that is down to the uniqueness of the venue.” One of the businesses that works with other tenants on the site is SRSN, a publishing and design enterprise run by directors Chris Strickland and John Feetham. They create websites and publications and also operate a sports news website for Rutland and Stamford. John said: “As a two-man partnership, it is nice to be in with other similar-sized businesses and learn from each other.” Many of the tenants are entrepreneurs who began their business working from home. One of them is Rebecca Couture, who started making hats for family and friends for weddings and special events. Now the Rebecca Couture Millinery brand can be found in John Lewis and a range of boutiques across the UK and overseas. Rebecca, who has been based at the business park since summer 2015, said: “Everyone likes to feel great on special occasions, so it’s important for me to make something that suits them.” The Active Rutland Hub sports centre was opened last year by the Princess Royal after being converted and upgraded from its use as a gymnasium for prison inmates. The Vale Judo Club relocated there from its former Oakham base and Oakham Artistic Gymnastics Academy moved there last May. Elaine Lawniczak and her daughter Victoria started the group in 2004 in Caldecott with four children. It now has more than 470 members, aged from just 11 months old to 65. Victoria said: “It’s a really good venue for us, we can’t speak highly enough of it. “Some of the equipment is really heavy and one of the advantages of having our own gym now is that we don’t have to pack it away at the end of a session.”

SHO PPING

ADAM AND EVE STREET STORE REVIVAL Kirstie Mitchell explores the exciting new stores on this well-known street in Market Harborough.

OCAL history buffs will know that Adam and Eve Street has a vast history that goes way back to medieval times. The Adam and Eve medieval inn once stood where JoJo Maman Bebe is today. Thomas Cook lived on Adam and Eve Street from 1832 to 1841 and the Grade II listed building of R and WH Symington and Co Ltd was completely refurbished in 2014 to renovate council offices and modernise the library and town museum. There is no doubt that Adam and Eve Street has seen many changes over the last few hundred years, and there are now four new exciting kids on the block…

BABY GARMENTS WITHOUT GUILT A holiday to Beijing and a stumble upon a t-shirt shop is where Jane Albon began her amazing journey with organically grown and naturally coloured cotton, now used for all Natures Purest products, including nursery bedding, baby clothes and toys. During her successful career, Jane, has won many business accolades and worked with many high-street retailers. This year Natures Purest reached its 10th anniversary and Jane’s 40th year in textiles. “I believe Natures Purest offers something completely unique. The cotton used in all our products is organically grown and 100% cotton. There are no harmful chemicals, resins or dyes. In 2014 Natures Purest Lanka was awarded the prestigious Garments Without Guilt certification. This gives the end-user total confidence that all garments are made as ethically as possible. The new stores on Adam and Eve Street will bring Market Harborough back to life.” 3 Adam and Eve Street, www.naturespurest.co.uk

QUIRKY SCANDI HOMEWARE Market Harborough-born Jodie Burrows has made her long-life dream to own her own business come true and has taken the leap from 11 years in fashion buying to setting up this quirky homeware and interiors store. Lily Loves Shopping houses a mixture of contemporary home furnishings and accessories to create a quirky and modern look with Scandi styling and influences. “We believe life is too short to have a boring home, and Lily Loves Shopping can inject a little fun into homeware. We’re here to show you that your home should reflect your personality.” Alongside their own handmade items and branded products, they also support small independent brands and suppliers, including Harborough-based children clothing and homeware company, A Little Bit Milo. 2 Adam and Eve Street, www.lilylovesshopping.com

DELICIOUS, HEALTHY AND GLUTEN-FREE A family owned and run café using traditional Italian methods, Amore Mio promotes healthy habits by offering delicious freshly prepared food and drink, using the finest of ingredients. There is also a vast range of gluten-free food on offer. 13 Adam and Eve Street, www.amoremio-cafe.com ONE-STOP CHILDREN’S SHOP Good friends Maria Arnesson and Pam Harper decided that Market Harborough was lacking a one-stop children’s shop where you can find clothes, toys, gifts and books all in one place. The Growing Tree is the perfect place to browse clothing ranges from Hatley, Frugi and Lilly & Sid to toy brands including Melissa & Doug, Bigjig, and Floss and Rock. Maria explains, “So far the feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive and, with Market Harborough being such a family oriented area, people are very happy to find the town now has a designated children’s one-stop shop. We plan to expand on this by offering exciting in store events in the New Year such as regular story-telling sessions, screen print bag sessions and puppet theatre events.” 15 Adam and Eve Street, www.facebook.com/thegrowingtreeMH

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

Extensions should complement their environment

Your complete Home Build Solution from concept to completion 01780 729027 www.brownandjones.co.uk

Brown & Jones Ltd Contemporary & Traditional Property

Advertisement Feature

TO PETERBOROUGH STATION

NEW YEAR, NEW HOME!

Make a new start with Moores – the region’s premier estate agency. Managing Director, Vernon Moore appraises opportunities for local vendors and offers some key advice for those thinking of buying or selling in 2017.

THE RIGHT TIME? RIGHT NOW. With almost three decades of experience in the local property market, Vernon has witnessed his fair share of market uncertainty over the years and has some straightforward advice for property owners thinking of selling this year; “Sell your house when it is the right time for you – simple as that. There will always be speculation around political activity or unusual circumstances such as the Brexit vote which can lead to some vendors being overly cautious. Buyers however usually remain enthusiastic despite any level of uncertainty.”

70% OF BUYERS OVER £500,000 ARE COMING FROM THE SOUTH EAST Moore’s experience the most new registrations from potential buyers during the period over Christmas and the New Year with many cash buyers among them. “It’s frustrating to hear that some vendors feel they need to wait until spring before marketing their home which is simply not the case at all. The early months of the year are the ideal time to capture the attention of our newly registered buyers.” With growing demand from buyers in London and the South East who are prepared to pay up to 10% more than many local vendors are expecting, Vernon’s message is simple – “If the time is right for you to sell, we have buyers ready to move.”

THE RIGHT PLATFORM? GRANTHAM AND VERY SOON… PETERBOROUGH Last year Moores launched an experimental London Platform Office at Grantham railway station and the results have been extraordinary.

Created to cater for those seeking a Country and Commuting home, the office swiftly became the primary showcase for the finest rural homes available in the Vale of Belvoir. “Resembling a First Class lounge, the platform office is an easy and practical information hub for buyers considering a move out of London, seeking prestigious family homes within an easy commute to the capital,” explains Vernon. The Grantham Platform Office has been such a swift and emphatic success that further offices will appear on the London platforms of regional railway stations over the next few weeks, beginning with Peterborough Station.

WE OFFER FREE PROPERTY SOURCING FOR OUR VENDORS.

LOOKING FORWARD OVER 40% OF OUR SALES ARE BY DISCREET INTRODUCTIONS “As we enter 2017, each specialist area of agency has its own in-house expert at Moores. Whether it is residential sales, commercial property, mortgages and finance, country rentals or large equestrian properties, we are ready to take on this year’s challenges and our team has never looked stronger. We are happy to discuss discreetly marketing your property for a reduced fee during the early new year, this is a great way to dip your toe in the water when it comes to selling your property without the obligations of you being on the market.” • Contact Moores 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 and London as well as the London Platform at Grantham Railway Station. Oakham Office – Tel: 01572 757979 Stamford Office – Tel: 01780 484555 Uppingham Office – Tel: 01572 821935 Full contact details can be found at www.mooresestateagents.com

“We are thrilled with the response from buyers and the demand it creates for Country and Commuting homes across Stamford and Rutland. The Peterborough Platform Office will showcase the best homes for sale as well as offer expert advice from the dedicated team based there,” says Vernon. “We also offer our clients an individual home sourcing service and last year made many successful matches. Our specialist insight into the local market means we are always the first to be ‘in the know’ so many matches were made between London clients and properties that never appeared in the press or on the internet,” he adds.

UPDATES Shops & Services

The personal touch with Beds at Barefoot Flooring

AKE the most of the January sales and take a trip to Barefoot Flooring in Oakham, where you’ll discover that it’s not just about floors these days – they’ve now got a whole new bed showroom showcasing the top names in divans and frames. Opening in March 2015, “it was a natural extension – beds go hand in hand with floors,” co-owner Lisa explains. Alongside bed frames and divans with ottoman drawers and adjustable beds, they offer a full range of bedside tables, headboards, storage chests, chaise lounges, footstools, bedroom chairs and such like – all of which can be done in the same fabric as the divan or frame. And, being a small independent shop themselves, there’s a real focus on supporting UK businesses like Somnus and Midlands-based Hestia and being able to offer customers a huge amount of choice.

As co-owner Lisa explains, “Some people might think that as a local independent shop we would be more expensive than the big bed warehouses and chains, but we’re not! We’re just a friendly, relaxed, boutique-style store. “We know it’s not a quick decision – buying a bed. It takes some thought. So I pop the kettle on, help them out, it’s the personal touch that sets us aside. We genuinely do care that our customers get the right product for them – we definitely don’t do the hard sell but we’ll always be as helpful as we can be.” • Enjoy up to 25% off in the sales. Visit beds@barefoot at Unit 14 Midland Court, Station Approach, Oakham LE15 6RA, 01572 759752 www.barefoot-flooring.biz

Inspired by Strictly…? Head to Nene School of Dancing

ANINA Mossman, who has over forty years of experience teaching Ballroom and Latin dance to all abilities and ages, is the Principal of the Nene School of Dancing and a qualified IDTA examiner. Her classes in Stamford have become very popular with a 12-week course becoming a lifechanging hobby helping fitness and mental stimulation. You may have seen Ed Balls enjoying the experience on ‘Strictly’! Join the new 12-week Absolute Beginners’ course starting on Thursday 19 January from 6pm – 7pm if you wish to learn the basics of the Cha Cha Cha, Rumba, Jive, Rock n’Roll, Waltz and Quickstep. By being able to join others on the dance floor, you will make your cruise or Warners break even more enjoyable.

Perhaps you would simply like to learn to dance to enjoy the sociable, fun elements of the hobby. If you are not an absolute beginner and would like to take dance up again there are several other classes available so please enquire to discuss which is the most suitable. “Learning is great fun,” Janina explains. “If you enjoy music, you will enjoy dancing. The school holds regular Saturday evening social and Sunday afternoon tea dances at the

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

beautifully restored ballroom at the Stamford Arts Centre. This gives you the opportunity to practise your new skills and enjoy social time with your class members. • Visit www.neneschoolofdancing.co.uk to read about all the events and classes. To enrol for the new class or to discuss what Janina can offer, call 01778 590655 or 07931214211.

LIFES T YL E

Are you in need of a New Year Hygge?

“If Danes are the happiest people in the world, then maybe hygge is the secret to their success”

Stunning Morso stoves available at Heatsource in Uppingham.

2. SIT BY A ROARING FIRE Few things conjure up cosiness like a real fire during the coldest months and a woodpile stacked waiting to get you through the evening.

Beautiful Susie Watson Shetland throws start at £84. Buy online at www.susiewatsondesigns.co.uk or visit Oakham-based Furleys and The Spotted Robin who stock a selection of Susie Watson items

With the excesses of the festive season behind us, you might be in need of a little tlc during these dark evenings. Katie Mitchell says it’s time to welcome a little hygge into your life.

RONOUNCED ‘hoo-ga’ (imagine the sound when clearing your throat), the Danes have been practicing hygge since the 18th Century and appear to have perfected the practice of enhancing wellbeing by creating a feeling of cosiness, comfort and contentment. Embracing simple practices and indulging in all the good things and people in your life can bring a little calmness, acceptance and chilled out-ness with a little hygge magic. So to help you get through to spring, it’s time to snuggle down, settle in and do as the Danes do. Here’s how:

1. BUY SOME CANDLES Danes love candles, and it’s easy to see why. At home tonight, dim the lights, light some candles and enjoy the tranquil glow of flickering light. Gorgeous candles available at The Spotted Robin in Oakham.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

3. BAKE BREAD AND PASTRIES The delicious aroma of fresh baking is hard to beat. Delight in sharing with friends and family straight from the oven. And the great thing about Hygge is that it’s not about depriving yourself – so maybe a second slice can be justified on the grounds of wellbeing?

“It’s about creating experiences and atmosphere” 4. ENJOY THE SIMPLE PLEASURE OF BEING WITH OTHERS Gather around your kitchen table whilst discussing the big and little things in life for hours with those who mean the most to you. Don’t worry about setting the perfect table either – it’s all about simplicity: fresh flowers, candles, good wine and comfort food prepared in advance so you can sit with your friends and enjoy.

6. GET OUTSIDE Hygge is all about creating balance – so getting outside is key. Pull on a beautiful woolly scarf and feel the fresh air on your face as you set off for a stomp across some fields or an invigorating cycle in the countryside. Don’t forget that exercise releases the happy hormone dopamine – just snuggle back onto your sofa when you get home!

2016 Pashley Britannia 8 Speed Old English White £754.99 available at Rutland Cycling.

5. DRINK COCOA Preferably the real deal – chocolate, cream and milk stirred slowly over a hot stove then savoured with friends curled up on the sofa………mmmmm scrumptious.

9. MAKE A NICE CUP OF TEA There is something lovely about brewing real tea and drinking it in china cups, making you appreciate this everyday beverage in a new way.

8. DELVE INTO A BOOK There are few things more hygge than enjoying the silence, snuggling under a blanket and getting stuck into a proper paper book.

“Embrace little luxuries everyday”

7. WRAP UP IN ALL THINGS COSY Snuggle into a beautiful luxurious blanket, pull on some super soft bed socks and feel like you are being hugged by a giant polar bear. These beautiful crochet throws can be found in Keals, Market Harborough for £55

“Surround yourself with things that speak to your senses – natural light, fresh flowers, the glow of candles, the smell of fresh coffee” RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

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HEA L T H & B E AUTY

Healthy body, healthy mind Feeling run-down from the stodge, stress and late nights over Christmas? Catherine Varney finds out how you can get back on track to start the New Year on a high

You are what you eat There’s no quicker way to start banishing that Xmas bloat than by making some changes to your diet. And this year, it’s easier than ever as the Lean Pantry Co café has recently opened in Oakham. Promising delicious food and drinks that taste amazing without the use of refined sugar and other nasty additives, owner Seema told me about her vision: “The idea for the café has evolved over the last four years. I’ve always been into baking and love experimenting with food but it was only when I realised I had got into a cycle of yoyo dieting after having my children that I started some personal training sessions and took more of an interest in nutrition. Before long I decided to combine the two and open a healthy eating café – using my baking experience, albeit with healthier ingredients.” In addition to tasty eat-in and takeaway treats such as protein pancakes, smoked salmon brunches and sweet potato with tuna salsa or lentil curry, Seema also has an incredibly well-stocked pantry for those who want to continue healthy eating at home. Many gluten free, organic and whole food brands are on offer: try the Superseed pastas such as green banana penne or flaxseed fusilli, which are guaranteed to cut the carbs at dinner time as the first step to a healthier new you. • The Lean Pantry Co, 2c Mill Street, Oakham, Tel: 07432 866182

One-toone yoga Love the idea of improving your health and wellbeing but shy away from classes and gyms? Amander Meade went to meet Em Goldmark for a private yoga session. Held in her home studio, her one-to-one sessions are typically an hour long and are entirely tailored to the individual, taking into consideration time available to practice, physicality and personal goals as well as the emotional and psychological needs of each client. “I devise a personal programme of practice in collaboration with each client, which they then take away and work on at home before returning so we can assess their progress and move forwards at their own pace,” Em explains. After an initial consultation, we established that I needed to address the stiffness in my upper back and hamstrings and Em guided me through a series of gentle stretches and postures designed to target these areas. After a week of repeating the stretches daily for just twenty minutes, my shoulders are significantly less painful and I am sleeping better too. • Em Goldmark, Tel: 07792 818680, www.yogainrutland.co.uk

Fit to the core Many health benefits can be achieved by improving core strength, as Chartered Physiotherapist and Certified Pilates Instructor, Michele Evans explained to me: “I’ve been a physiotherapist for over 30 years and have lots of experience of working with people of varying degrees of fitness and mobility. My work focuses on helping people with back and joint issues through exercises used to improve posture and balance. This premise is carried through into my pilates classes as I believe the two go hand in hand, ensuring the skills I teach can be transferred into everyday life.” Michele offers group classes around Rutland as well as one-to-one sessions, where she can really address the biomechanics and specific needs of each individual – for example, focusing on leg strengthening movements for anyone planning to go skiing. • Michele Evans, Tel: 07813 760758, michelephysio@btinternet.com ➧

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

HEA L T H & B E AUTY

Holistic health If conventional methods have not yielded the results you are looking for with an emotional or physical complaint, then pay a visit to Sam Tinton, a registered homeopath who has recently opened a practice in the heart of Stamford. She told me: “Whilst my first interest was homeopathy, I am also a qualified GAPS nutritionist, a field of work which recognises the link between the gut, brain and mental health issues. I am able to help with autistic spectrum disorders, depression, learning difficulties or other issues increasingly affecting teenagers such as anorexia or selfharming. There is very often a clear link between poor digestive health which causes toxicity in the bloodstream and anxiety and depression.” In addition to this, Sam also offers weight loss management and detox programmes: “The 10-day detox is a very popular option and works like a transformational cleanse to reboot your digestive system.” Sam is joined at the practice by local kinesiologist Anna Findlay, two counsellors who specialise in cognitive therapy and hypnotherapy as well as offering the opportunity to partake in group meditation and mindfulness sessions. • Balanced Mind & Body, 6 St. Peter’s Hill, Stamford, Tel: 01780 239064, www.balancedmindbody.co.uk

Pilates with a difference If you love the mental and physical benefits that gentle exercise can bring, Pilates is a great option. Jane Fletcher is a fully qualified level 3 Pilates teacher and told me: “As a former ballet dancer with the English National Ballet Company, I naturally tend to bring a subtle ballet inspired element to my teaching. I am especially keen on quality and technique, encouraging continuous flowing movements, extending and lengthening through the legs, arms and body to help build long and strong lean muscles and encouraging an upright, tall and poised posture. My whole inspiration to teach Pilates came from the huge benefits that it brought to me as a dancer, including helping me with a career-threatening back condition, returning to fitness after pregnancy and then later alleviating those niggling aches and pains that seem to go hand in hand with getting older.” • Jane Fletcher, Tel: 07776 058973, www.jane-fletcher-pilates.pilatesnearyou. co.uk

LOCAL NEWS

New therapeutic service for children and families opens in Market Harborough

A new way of working out I was very excited to get a sneak peek of a new fitness programme being introduced at Catmose Sports Centre – Les Mills Grit. The trial group consisted of 6 human guinea pigs all willing to put their bodies through their paces for 4 weeks to find out what effect these instructor-led classes could have on overall fitness and body shape. Personal Trainer Jeanette told me: “The whole premise of Les Mills Grit is based on small group training to encourage a teamwork environment that you can’t get in a larger class. The 30-minute exercise classes are to be done three times a week and consist of a warm up, tri-sets, tabata training (to get the heart rate up), a 2-minute challenge and a core track. The idea is to work as hard and fast as you can in that time to activate the afterburn effect in which your body continues to burn calories all day.” Two plucky volunteers also agreed to a nutrition plan for a minimum of two weeks, stripping out all caffeine, sugar (including fruit), carbohydrates and unhealthy fats. Measurements and fitness levels were assessed for all six volunteers on day one – check back in the February issue for the results! • Catmose Sports Centre, Oakham Tel: 01572 490030, www.sll.co.uk/saxon/Catmose

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

A new service offering psychological support for children, young people and their families who are affected by emotional and mental health issues has opened at Archway Health Hub in Market Harborough. Qualified educational psychologist Dr Diane Lewis set up the new practice which aims to promote positive mental health in an accessible and non-threatening way. Dr Lewis trained at the internationally renowned Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust in London where she worked as part of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. She has also worked as an educational psychologist for schools, families and local authorities across the Midlands. “There is strong evidence to support the belief that anxiety, stress and mental health issues are on the rise in young people,” explains Dr Lewis. “Fortunately, there is much that can be done to help. I offer a private and confidential space for children, adolescents and parents to discuss their concerns and access services in a peaceful and secure environment.” • Archway Health, Tel: 01858 410 820, reception@archwayhouse.co.uk

2017 TRENDS

With 2016 over, everyone at the THOMAS HAIRDRESSING GROUP now have our sights set firmly on the coming year. I asked a few of the guys to give me their views on what will be on trend in 2017.

JOSEPH (Partner in Thomas & Joseph Loughborough) We are seeing more and more people asking for texture and movement in their hair. By adding shorter choppy layers, you can achieve amazing natural movement and can wear your hair a lot looser. The more natural the hair sits the better the overall look. JACOB SYMON (SNR stylist at Thomas & Thomas, Melton Mowbray) For me it has to be all about curls, curls and more curls. Invest in the best pair of tongs you can afford. Make sure the hair is 100% dry after washing, apply a strong mousse then take vertical sections, you do not have to be perfect, then when the whole head has been done lightly pull all the curls out with your fingers loosening up the whole look. Great for everyday wear and so simple to do.

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating: • Low self-esteem and loss of confidence • Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking • Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations • Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks • Attachment and relationship difficulties • Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual) • Autistic Spectrum Disorders Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556 www.psychologistuk.co.uk Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

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Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

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BETH MCSHANE (Stylist at Thomas, Oakham) Balayage and dip dyes still very popular, however in 2017 we will start to see them become much more subtle. Perhaps only 2-3 shades difference in the colour. It gives a great sun kissed look and adds a real talking point to any style. However, there is also a big trend for bright neon colours when applied to the ends of the balayage, bright pinks and steel grey remain favourites but are perhaps not for everyone. We wish everyone a fantastic 2017 and if you wish to discuss anything hair related we offer free consultations with no obligation at any of our salons and we open 9am-9pm weekdays and 9am-6pm Saturdays. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Thomas Oakham 01572 756561 Melton Mowbray 01664 566812 Loughborough 01509 211010 Email: thomas@thomashairdressing.co.uk

www.thomashairdressing.co.uk 27

OUT & AB O UT

Birds of a Feather

National Bird Day is on 5 January each year and scheduled to coincide with the end of the annual Christmas Bird Count - the longest running citizen science survey in the world. Some local experts advise on how best to support our feathered friends. WORDS BY: AMANDER MEADE. IMAGES SUPPLIED: IAN JONES AND PETER SCOTT.

Gadwall, Ian Jones

Fieldfare, Peter Scott

Shoveler, Ian Jones

Winter at the Water Rutland Water Nature Reserve is an internationally important wetland site and is run in partnership with Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. The reserve is synonymous with one summer visitor in particular – the famous osprey. But there’s a whole host of other wildlife to see throughout the year, including the winter months when the reserve is a haven for thousands of birds. Becky Corby is the Community Engagement Officer at the nature reserve and can offer plenty of reasons why this time of year is a treat for wildlife lovers. “During the winter months, as many as 30,000 wildfowl take refuge at Rutland Water to escape the freezing temperatures of their summer territories in Russia, Scandinavia and Iceland, gathering on the reservoir and surrounding lagoons to forage the plentiful food supply. Surface feeding ducks such as wigeon, teal, pintail, mallard, gadwall and shoveler can be seen dabbling along the shallows, whilst diving ducks including pochard, tufted duck, goldeneye, smew and goosander hunt small fish and other aquatic life in deeper waters. “During midwinter the ducks’ plumage is at its very best – they stand out like jewels on the water. Wildfowl aren’t the only bird species to make the nature reserve their winter home; golden plover gather together with lapwing in large numbers on the islands and overwintering redwing and fieldfare frequent the hedgerows. “Look out for the contrasting autumnal colours of stonechat,

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

brambling, siskin and redpoll against a frosty background as you walk along the paths of the reserve. At dusk, short-eared owl and barn owl can often be seen quartering the meadows close to the Birdwatching Centre as they hunt for mice and voles. If you are patient, you might spot the beautifully camouflaged bittern as they stalk their quarry amongst the reeds and, as the sun sets, starlings murmurate over the lagoon before coming into roost. You may even be lucky enough to see an otter make their way along the fringe of the reed bed in search of their supper.”

Wildlife in your garden

Members of Rutland Natural History Society study, record and help preserve Rutland’s wildlife all year round as well as encouraging local people of all ages to take an interest in conservation. Peter Scott offers some advice on how to lend a helping hand to the wildlife in your own garden this winter. “In winter, wildlife is focused on survival rather than breeding and so becomes less obvious to us. For example we don’t hear as much bird song but the birds are still there passing through our gardens as they search for food. Most gardens naturally produce some fruits, seeds and insects during the winter but providing some supplements to this can give a nutritional boost as well as attracting wildlife – most species will rapidly learn where food is available and return to take advantage.”

Orange Tip, Peter Scott Collared dove, Peter Scott Common toad, Peter Scott Contacts: To find out more about National Bird Day and get involved in national surveys, visit www.nationalbirdday.com If you would like to get the most out of visiting the nature reserve, the team run some fantastic guided walks and events to help improve your identification skills. This month join in a Winter Wildfowl Day on 14 January, a Wild Walk for the Family on 15 January and a Winter Birds Family Walk on 28 January. For details of all events at Anglian Water Nature Reserve, tel: 01572 770651 www. rutlandwater.org.uk. The Birdwatching Centre is at Egleton near Oakham, LE15 8BT. • Visit the Rutland Natural History Society website (www.rnhs.org.uk) for details of meetings and events.

Some tips to help you include: Leave undisturbed wild areas in your garden – piles of leaves or brushwood can make the perfect nest in which animals can hide, rest and hibernate. By leaving the task of tidying your garden borders and shrubs until early spring, shelter can be provided for insects throughout winter and, if you have a compost heap, this could become a welcome habitat for toads, and even grass snakes and slow-worms. Often overlooked, keeping a source of fresh clean drinking water available is very important, especially in very cold weather when natural sources may be frozen over. Wild birds require a varied menu and may find it difficult to find natural foods such as berries, insects, seeds, worms and fruit during this cold season. Therefore, any extra food you can put out will help. Provide a range of seeds, fresh unsalted peanuts and table scraps (cheese and fruits such as apples and pears.) Garden birds also love dried mealworms or waxworms, which can be bought from bird food suppliers. Providing a variation helps to avoid competition for food. Place feeders in trees or bushes to provide cover and clean and disinfect all feeders regularly to help prevent the spread of infection between birds or mammals. Cow’s milk is not good for hedgehogs – stick to water. Starchy

bread should also be avoided. Minced meat, fresh liver, tinned dog food (not fish based), or even scrambled eggs will appeal to them. Squirrels do not hibernate; instead they cache food during autumn to eat when food is scarce. Offer them hazelnuts, walnuts and almonds, plus some chopped apple, beans, carrots or spinach. Avoid putting out too much food at once and clear away uneaten food regularly to discourage rats. It is also not advisable to provide food if it encourages wildlife to cross a busy road.

Signs of spring

“As spring approaches, natural food will increase and our help will not be so essential. We will soon be hearing the different bird songs and the first of the butterflies will be appearing from their winter slumber in our sheds and garages. Early Brimstones, Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock will have over wintered as adults whilst the first emerging male Orange-tip of the year is always a sure sign that spring is here. “If you have a pond, then look out in early spring for frogs and newts emerging from their wintering sites and the appearance of eggs in the water or attached to plants within the pond. Toads appear later in spring and lay their eggs in long strands wound around the pond plants.” RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

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S T AYC AT I O N S

Home is where the heart is With all these gorgeous spots ready to welcome you for a romantic night or two away from it all, there’s really no need to venture far, says Rachael Bull. And no excuse! (hint hint)

The Woodlands at Hothorpe Hall

THE WOODLANDS AT HOTHORPE HALL Relaxation, romance and luxury await you in the treehouse at The Woodlands. Nestled in the trees of Theddingworth’s Hothorpe Hall lies this elevated accommodation – not quite in the treetops, but high enough to enjoy views across the fields up to the village church spire. A great year-round getaway, you can enjoy a warm welcome, thanks to the electric ‘log’ burner, and cosy up in the kingsize bed while enjoying a latte from the coffee machine in the winter months. Or choose an alfresco break in the warmer months, taking advantage of the large semi-circular balcony on which to sip Champagne and enjoy the continental breakfast hamper that awaits you on arrival. Thought to be the only luxury treehouse accommodation in Leicestershire and Northamptonshire, it has proved very popular since it opened in May 2015. • Bookings are taken up to six months in advance, with live availability and booking online at www.woodlandbreaks.co.uk.

BARNSDALE LODGE Positioned on the North shore of the spectacular Rutland Water, Barnsdale Lodge has become somewhat of an institution. Originally a farmhouse and converted into a hotel in 1989, we’ve seen it earn numerous accolades including being in the Sunday Telegraph’s ’50 of Britain’s cosiest hotels’ and runner-up in the Telegraph’s ‘20 Top Places for a Warm Welcome’. You can enjoy gorgeous views of the countryside or the Lodge’s courtyard and there’s plenty to do, with Rutland Cycling just half a mile from the hotel if you fancy taking on the famous 23-mile circular track on two wheels. Or, if you fancy staying on two feet and you have a four-legged friend in tow, there are lots of glorious walks and the Lodge is a famously dog-friendly establishment – dogs even get their own Emily Bond dog bed when they come to stay. After a bit of pampering? The hotel’s Glow hair salon offers a range of options from a blow dry to a full cut and colour. Barnsdale Lodge guests get 20% off and beauty treatments can be arranged in advance.

The Woodlands at Hothorpe Hall

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

Barnsdale Lodge Valentine’s package 2017: You can enjoy one night’s stay in a superior room* with a bottle of prosecco on arrival and homemade chocolates in your room, a three-course candlelit dinner for two, and breakfast of smoked salmon and scrambled eggs for just £199 per couple – Available 13, 14, 15 February 2017. *Limited availability – so book now! • Call 01572 724678 www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk

MILL STREET PUB & KITCHEN Mill Street Pub & Kitchen in Oakham offers seven gorgeous boutique bedrooms ideal for a romantic break. The individually designed bedrooms feature comfy kingsize beds, Egyptian cotton linen, beautifully presented bathrooms, Flat Screen TVs, Elemis toiletries and Nespresso coffee machines - everything you need for a relaxing weekend away from it all without going far. The pub, which opened last summer, is ideally located for exploring Oakham castle, nearby Rutland Water or indulging in some retail therapy in Oakham’s wealth of quality shops. But guests can also just sit back and relax over a coffee and reading the newspapers or share a bottle of wine in front of the roaring open fire. Mill Street Pub & Kitchen is the ideal place to stay for food and drink lovers, with an excellent menu of exciting seasonal dishes and drinks to enjoy at lunch or dinner including plenty of decadent treats to spoil yourselves with during your visit. After a great night’s sleep in the comfy bedrooms, a relaxing breakfast from Mill Street’s delicious breakfast menu will be the perfect end to your stay. • For more information visit www.millstreetoakham.com, tel: 01572 729600.

BARNSDALE HALL HOTEL Once a hunting lodge, Barnsdale Hall is now a charming hotel set in 65 acres of conservation parkland with a plethora of impressive facilities to keep any couple entertained. The main hall has retained its unique charm and character while its breathtaking views of Rutland Water continue to enthrall. You can choose to stay in one of the nine bedrooms in the main hall or opt for a room in one of the two separate accommodation blocks, some of which enjoy views of the water, as well as a private balcony. The hotel’s Health Spa offers the ultimate R&R. Your options include the Dead Sea salt

READER OFFER: FOXTON LOCKS LODGES Quote MHLIVING17 Foxton Locks Lodges has four luxury log cabins to receive a 10% set in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside on discount on any the outskirts of the popular village of Foxton near bookings made for Market Harborough. February 2017 in Each log cabin is finished to a very high standard Badger’s Set. and has its own private, secluded hot-tub. The cabins have uninterrupted views of the surrounding fields but are also located within walking distance of all the amenities of Foxton, with two pubs and a village shop and then two more pubs at the famous tourist attraction, Foxton Locks. There are lots of lovely walks right on your doorstep to enable you and your four-legged friends to explore the area on foot. The cabins are rated 4- and 5-star with a Gold award. Each cabin has modern, well equipped kitchens, large living rooms, and large en-suite bedrooms with luxury linen, towels and toweling robes included. The cabins are perfect for a romantic trip so why not book a mini break away for a loved one as a Valentine’s surprise and their in-house chef to prepare a romantic meal for you both while you soak away any stresses in the hot tub. • Tel: 01858 545273 www.foxtonlockslodges.com

floatation tank with the benefits of a full eight hours of sleep, alongside deep tissue massages, Elemis facials, manis, pedis… the list goes on. For those who are still working off all the mince pies, there’s a well-equipped gym, fitness studio, swimming pool, squash, tennis, bowls, a sauna and steam room. And then you can undo all that hard work at the fine dining Brasserie or the Lounge Bar for

a more informal meal. There’s a Romantic Getaway offer of dinner, bed and breakfast with a complimentary upgrade, bottle of champagne and chocolates for £180. You can stay an extra night for £75 (B&B only). • www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk tel: 01572 757901

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

OUT & ABOUT Amander Meade selects the best entertainment in the region this month Thursday 5 and Friday 6 January, 7.30pm EVENT: Film Nights A brilliantly witty film adaptation of one of Jane Austen’s lesser known books is showing on consecutive evenings in Rutland. ‘Love and Friendship’ is showing at Rutland County Museum on 5 January and the following evening in Lyddington village hall. Tickets are £5 available at Oakham Wines (for the museum) and on the door (for Lyddington). The film stars Kate Beckinsale and is a period drama/comedy set in the English countryside. Tuesday 17 to Saturday 21 January DRAMA: Season’s Greetings by Alan Ayckbourn At the annual family gathering, you might recognise some of the larger-than-life characters who turn up every year – and, if things can go wrong, at this particular reunion they will. To top it all there is a new boyfriend who doesn’t understand the unwritten family rules. Mistakes are rife and mayhem ensues. Market Harborough Theatre Tickets £10/£8 from the theatre box office on Tuesdays and Saturdays 9.30am to 11.30am or online at www. harboroughtheater.com Thursday January 19, 10am to 4pm WORKSHOP: Rug Restoration Bring your rug to this special workshop where expert weaver and restorer Rachel Simpson of the Rug Studio in Uppingham will share her expert knowledge on ‘How to restore a rug’. Falcon

PHOTOS: © DARREN BELL

Friday 10 to Saturday 18 February

Hotel, Uppingham Price is £110 to include lunch and afternoon tea or £90 without catering. To book Tel: 01572 829927 Thursday 26 January, 7.30pm EVENT: Launde around the World More helpings of delicious food from around the globe. Definitely not just haggis and shortbread, this evening celebrates the food of the Highlands for Burns Night. Launde Abbey Tickets are £16 for two courses Tel: 01572 717254 or visit www.laundeabbey.org.uk Saturday 4 February, 7.30pm EVENT: The Opera Dudes – Mission Improbable With their unique blend of style, swing and slapstick humour, this is one of

the funniest and most original classical double acts you will have seen. As well as terrific singing, the show includes funny stories, singalongs and a silly piano duet in the style of Morecambe and Wise. Wing Village Hall Tickets are £10 each from John Hackett Tel: 01572 737394 Wednesday 8 to Sunday 26 February EVENT: Leicester Comedy Festival Britain’s largest and most established comedy festival featuring well known comedians as well as those just breaking through. Multiple events at venues across the city with some shows offering free admission. The website has constantly updated news, reviews and show listings. All information at www. comedy-festival.co.uk.

MUSICAL THEATRE: The Wedding Singer Ray Quinn and Ruth Madoc star in this new production based on the hit film. It’s 1985. Hair is huge, greed is good and rock-star wannabe Robbie Hart is New Jersey’s favourite wedding singer. When his own fiancée dumps him at the altar, Robbie sets about making every wedding as disastrous as his own. A show packed with songs that capture all the fun and energy of the Adam Sandler smash hit film. Curve, Leicester Tickets from £15 to £32.50 Tel: 0116 2423574 or visit www.curveonline.co.uk.

Wednesday 18 January, 10.30am to 12.30pm EVENT: Winter and Snowdrops This guided walk with Nick Hamilton showcases the ideas behind each garden including the new Geoff Hamilton Winter Border, which features almost ten thousand snowdrops as well as beautiful drifts of hellebores. £34 per person including a cooked breakfast. For booking and information Tel: 01572 813200 or visit www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk Thursday January 19, 10am to 4pm

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

LOCA L WAL K

Happy 80th birthday to the trig pillar (and a decent walk into the bargain)

This walk takes you across rolling countryside and past the country’s first trig point – a reminder that our patch really is at the heart of England

WALK DATA Distance: 13 kms (8 miles) Typical time: 3 hours Start & Finish: Black Horse, Main St, Cold Ashby, NN6 6EL Terrain: quite a few contours Getting there: 5 mins south of the A14 Junction 1 exit along the A5199. About 45 minutes from the A1.

N early 1936 a group of Ordnance Survey surveyors gathered around a white concrete pillar in a field in Cold Ashby and began the retriangulation of Great Britain. That trig pillar is still standing 80 years on, along with thousands more around the country. Trig pillars are now instantly recognised by any walker, and have inspired many a trigbagger. They’re quintessentially British, and even made it onto Bill Bryson’s list of favourite British items in his 2015 book ‘The Road to Little Dribbling’. But what were they for? Now largely redundant, back in 1936, they formed a state-of-the-art network built to re-map Britain, dreamt up by Brigadier Martin Hotine. Responsible for the design, planning and implementation of the retriangulation, Hotine also designed the iconic trig pillar to provide a solid base for the theodolites used by the survey teams to improve the accuracy of their readings. Some 6,500 were built in total and the OS surveying teams spent 26 years in all gathering measurements across Britain to create a highly accurate map of the country, but time and technologies have moved on enormously to the point where the traditional trig pillar is now obsolete. The Cold Ashby trig is marked on the map as a triangle, half way along the Stanford Rd (the first part of the walk) on the left; it is down a (private) farm track with metal gates, about a hundred yards on the left. If there is no crop you will probably be able to spy it from the road. There is an inscription on the side that reads: “ORDNANCE SURVEY COLD ASHBY The first observations for the retriangulation of Great Britain were made at this trigonometrical station by Sergeant G. F. Mullinger, Royal Engineers on 18th April 1936.” Why was Cold Ashby the first? I am imagining because it is pretty much in the centre of the country, almost on the imaginary North/South dividing line that connects the Severn to the Wash and along the Jurassic limestone ridge that is an ancient trackway that dates back to pre-history.

Trig Pillar No. 1

Getting the trig bagger ‘bug’ If you wish to become a trig ‘bagger’, take a look at the website www.trigpointing.co.uk There are some really stunning pictures of ‘prettified’ trig points to be found at http://www.bbc.co.uk/ news/in-pictures-36036561 , of which the OS naturally doesn’t approve. For me, trig points bring back mixed memories of family holidays being forced to climb up steep hills then sit on a damp trig at the top of the hill to prove one had made it and get a damp bottom in the process. Here’s another one if you’re hooked. The country’s lowest trig point is one metre below sea level, on the north bank of the Little Ouse River, just NW of Little Ouse village, 12 miles NE of Ely; reach It from Brandon Creek, more details at www.trigpointing.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

THE ROUTE 2

Set out west along the village street, taking the first road bearing right (Stanford Rd) and continuing east past the golf course on your left, then the gated track with the trig pillar half way down it Shortly after the road kinks, you will see a footpath sign ahead of you which you take W (not the footpath on the left); the sign says ‘Bridleway to Elkington, Jurassic Way; follow the track that skirts around Honey Hill and eventually descends to the hamlet of Elkington, via several metal field gates on the way Turn left at the house called ‘Portly Banks’ and follow the road S to its end; then continue through a gate along this stone track, passing Winwick Lodge and then reaching Winwick hamlet Turn left here just before the hamlet along a well-defined track to White House Farm; after which you bear left along a footpath to cross the main road onto a track that continues to head NE to Thornby Grange and then reaches a minor road At the minor road bear left and follow the road back into Cold Ashby and past the church to the pub, where you began. If you would like to try out more walks in the Cold Ashby area, take a look at www. spanglefish.com/thecoldashbyrambler

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POINTS OF INTEREST Cold Ashby is mentioned in the Domesday Book and has a delightful church dating from the 12th century. Of particular note is the Lynch Gate, which was constructed in 1883 The Jurassic Way, 88 miles in total, follows the Jurassic limestone ridge from Banbury to Stamford passing through Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Lincolnshire. Honey Hill is an exquisite down land with great views west. There is some evidence that it was a Mesolithic site; it is certainly a very auspicious spot. The Grand Union Canal flows a very short distance west of Elkington and probably merits a quick detour. It dates back to the late 18th C and was the main transport artery for the country until the arrival of trains 40 years later. Winwick has a fine 16th-century brick manor house REFRESHMENTS Black Horse, Main St, NN6 6EL Tel: 01604 743246.

• Walking World is a brilliant online walking resource, featuring nearly 7,000 walks across the country. Unlimited access and OS downloads for only £15 per year, go to www.walkingworld.com RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

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PEOPLE

The sister act Amanda Loose catches up with international bestselling author Lucinda Riley to talk novels, Hollywood, life in Rutland and her ‘refuge’ North Norfolk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

ITH The Shadow Sister, the third in her global bestselling Seven Sisters series of seven novels just published and the series optioned by Hollywood for a multi-season TV series, 2016 was quite a year for Lucinda Riley. Not to mention the small matter of The Olive Tree being published in the summer, a contemporary novel set in Cyprus and based on a family holiday, which she originally wrote whilst living in Rutland, more of which later. “It has been the most busy year of my entire life. It’s just amazing. I have travelled around the world this year,” says Lucinda, who has now sold more than eight million copies of her books worldwide in 34 languages. “I have been in LA as Raffaella Productions have optioned The Seven Sisters series, then off to Brazil which was just incredible. There were just hundreds and hundreds of people waiting for me – The Shadow Sister signing took about six hours. “Just to sit in the office in Hollywood with my production team, discussing my characters and who is going to play them is one of those

and different to give me a focus. “I was outside in the garden, looking at the big North Norfolk skies one night and thinking of our own seven children. I’ve always watched the stars, especially the distinctive Pleiades cluster, known as The Seven Sisters and I thought - that’s it!” The first novel, The Seven Sisters, was published in 2014, followed by The Storm Sister a year later. The latest instalment, The Shadow Sister, follows the story of Star, the quietest and perhaps most puzzling of the sisters. After their adoptive father, the enigmatic billionaire Pa Salt, dies at the beginning of the series, the sisters are handed a set of coordinates each and clues to where they come from. The novels see them travel across the world and into the past to discover their stories. Lucinda juxtaposes stories from the past with the sisters’ lives, giving the novels an epic sweep. Star’s fascinating story features Beatrix Potter and Alice Keppel, and moves from the Lake District to London and Kent. As a reader of the series, it is my favourite yet. “I absolutely loved writing The Shadow Sister,

away. Then my publisher asked ‘do you have anything else’ and I pulled The Olive Tree out of a moth eaten box. “It was really good for me to rewrite that book. It was so different from writing the big historical sweeping sagas and had day-to-day life. You need to take risks and try other genres to develop your writing. I did that just before I wrote Star’s story and I really feel Star’s present is the best I have ever written and I feel that is partly due to The Olive Tree as I have pushed myself as a writer.” Lucinda eventually moved from Rutland to North Norfolk as her husband was from Norfolk. “We used to do the good old A47 run with the cat in a cage most weekends and take a car full of babies and nappies to the house in Weybourne.” With her growing international fame and legions of fans, North Norfolk has become ‘a refuge’ for Lucinda. “The books are absolutely enormous abroad which suits me. I live at home in North Norfolk as a normal person, a wife and a mother. My books are in the top three all over the world, but it doesn’t affect my day-to-day

moments in your life when you think ‘how did I get here?’ “They bought the series based on the first three books and I had to take them over a 50page dossier, which I wrote in the two weeks before I went about where the story was going. “They are the only people on the planet who know the entire overarching story – if they didn’t like it then millions of readers wouldn’t. I went and had the longest walk around the garden for an hour while they read it and they said they were blown away. “It’s just incredibly surreal. What’s interesting about it is that I write for the reader, and as an ex-actress have been very cynical when people say my books resemble films, but I have the nicest, best, most amazing production team ever. The screenwriter is just wonderful and was born five miles down the road from me in Ireland!” The idea for The Seven Sisters series, the stories of seven adopted sisters and loosely based on the mythology of the Pleiades cluster came from rather closer to home. The North Norfolk skies were the original inspiration behind the series, says Lucinda, between Christmas and New Year in 2013. “All the family were here and I was thinking what can I write, I need to find something new

it’s one of the easiest books I have ever written and I didn’t have to go abroad for this one. “I take my research incredibly seriously. As they are globally published there will be someone, somewhere who will pick me up if I get a fact wrong.” The Shadow Sister also includes an author’s note, “a mission statement” says Lucinda. “I just wanted readers to know why I am writing the series and what I felt about this particular character.” Just before writing The Shadow Sister, Lucinda revisited The Olive Tree, which she wrote whilst living in Rutland, which was published this summer. Though born in Ireland, Lucinda and her family moved back to live on the now Rutland/ Leicestershire border. “I came back with my two young children when I was 30 and we lived on the Exton Estate. Some of my closest friends are from that time, and I met my husband there. We got married at Hambleton Hall. “I wrote The Olive Tree whilst I was living there. I was in babyville and having a break from my book-a-year thing. It was just therapy, a break away and just for me. My husband always calls it The Olive Branch, after the Rutland pub! “I wrote three novels then and stuffed them

life. It’s over the wall and life continues as it always has. “North Norfolk is a refuge, I don’t know how real celebrities cope. I come home to the shire and life goes back to normal with the children and the peace of North Norfolk. It really grounds and stabilizes me, and is so important. “I go to the coast to relax and love going up to The Wiveton Bell with my husband. It is very easy to relax up there, walking down the quay at Blakeney. I love the rawness and the bleak cold. One day I am going to move to the coast!” When I spoke to Lucinda she had just arrived home in North Norfolk, after writing 45,000 words in 12 days and almost finished the fourth novel, which tells CeCe’s story. “I know the basic plot but have no idea within each story what’s going to happen to those sisters. I let CeCe out of the cage when I started writing, then she led me. It’s as much of an adventure for me as the reader. “CeCe is heading for Australia but stops off in Thailand. It was really interesting for me as my novel The Hot House Flower was set in the past in Thailand. This time it’s the modern day and it was fascinating to write about.” • The Shadow Sister by Lucinda Riley is published by Macmillan, £16.99. www.lucindariley.com

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

M I C H E L I N R E C O M M E N DAT I O N F O R 2 0 1 7

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UPDATES Shops & Services

New Year, new start? How to avoid your divorce turning ugly It’s January – you’ve coped with the pressure cooker that was Christmas and a New Year means a new start, especially if you’re battling a broken relationship. Beverley Harrison from Buckles Solicitors LLP provides some sensitive advice on how to cope with a relationship breakdown.

and under no circumstances should any discussions or disagreements take place in front of the children, as this could make them feel the situation is their fault. It is parents who divorce, not children. • For more detail on the work of Buckles’ family law team and how family mediation can benefit you, contact beverley.harrison@buckles-law.co.uk or call 01780 484570.

T is well documented by many law firms around the country that January is a peak time for estranged couples to begin divorce proceedings. But in the experience of Buckles Solicitors, many warring couples begin the process long before the festive period – using a New Year as the deadline for divorce. Relationship breakdowns can be stressful – but add children into the mix, and the pressure on both parties is certain to escalate. Christmas can increase the stresses of family life for couples who are experiencing relationship difficulties, and for many, the festive period can feel like a claustrophobic and even isolating time. January is often a time when people make a conscious decision to get their lives in order. Having some kind of plan or coping mechanism if you are still living with your partner can help. Visiting a family mediator can assist with reaching an agreement on how to deal with the financial issues and arrangements for the children. Your family lawyer will then be able to go through the legal processes and timings with you, and prepare the necessary financial agreement based on the decisions reached. Your family lawyer can also prepare a Parenting Plan based on your decisions which reflects the best interests of the children. Circumstances sometimes mean that couples still have to live together leading up to, during and even after the divorce. Both parties should therefore avoid confrontation and playing the “blame game”,

Rutland’s housing crisis? Only 2.5% of homes for sale

HIS month, our local buy-to-let expert and property investment adviser, David Crooke, owner of UPP Property Agents, shows us the evidence to support the strength in the housing market that many commentators didn’t expect. The challenge every property buyer has faced recently is a lack of choice… there simply hasn’t been much to choose from (be it for investment purposes or owner occupation). Numbers are still well down on what would be considered healthy levels from earlier this decade, as there remains a substantial demand/supply imbalance. Until there are consistent and steady increases in properties coming on to the market, the market is likely to see upward pressure on property values continuing. For example, at the end of 2016, LE15 saw an average of 112 new properties coming onto the market - not bad when you consider for some months last year the average was in the mid 60s. With the average Oakham property value hitting a record high at almost

£326,450, the shortage of properties over the last two years has contributed to this ‘fuller’ than average property figure. At the time of writing, 2.53% of Oakham properties were on the market for sale, equating to 99 properties (within 1 mile of Oakham town centre), which, when compared to only a year ago when that figure stood at 123, is a slight decrease. It is even more fascinating when the figures are split into property types: • Detached: In 2015, 48 on the market vs. 35 houses now…-27% • Semi-detached: In 2015, 18 on the market vs. 28 houses now…+56% • Terraced: In 2015, 27 on the market vs. 19 now…-30% • Flats/apartments: In 2015, 18 on the market vs. 11 now… -39% Some commentators believed that the property market wasn’t going to be strong enough post-Brexit, as what was considered a ‘sellers’ market’ before the vote and a ‘buyers’ market’ in the early months after it, may now be somewhere in-between and the property market might just be coming back into balance. All this will mean property values won’t continue to grow at the same extent they have been over the last 12 to 18 months, and in the early part of 2017, values might dip slightly. • For professional advice on buying, selling, renting and managing your homes and property investments, please call David Crooke, UPP Property Sales & Lettings on 01572 725 825 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JaNuary 2017

Neil & Louise Hitchen welcome you to

Award Winning Country Pub

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FOOD & DRI N K

Barnsdale Lodge won’t disappoint WORDS: DEBORAH PENNELL

RRIVING unannounced to do a restaurant review on a busy Friday lunchtime could have caused some upset. But as Barnsdale Lodge is such a professionally run establishment, it means whenever you turn up you are going to be treated to the same degree of excellent service and high standard of food. My mother and I were not to be disappointed. Since Executive Head Chef David Bukowicki joined the team last year, the food at Barnsdale Lodge has been of a consistently high quality with the ethos of turning locally sourced produce into simple, elegant, and delicious dishes. I started with Sauté Foraged Mushrooms & Colston Basset on Brioche toast, Crispy Barnsdale Duck Egg. What a brilliantly executed dish – a multitude of wild mushrooms, tasty local cheese, sitting on lightly toasted brioche topped with a perfectly cooked crispy duck egg. My mother chose the Confit Gressingham Duck & Pistachio Terrine with Armagnac Prunes – a rich and flavoursome duck terrine with great textures and even housing a sneaky bit of foie gras; all wrapped neatly in wafer-thin Italian ham. The prunes were an excellent accompaniment and cut through the richness. For main I chose Roasted Guinea Fowl breast on roasted salsify with a subtle cepe mousse, and crunchy latticed game chips. I always think Guinea fowl is an under-utilised bird. It has as much to offer as chicken, in fact more, but is not as readily available. A superb dish. A risotto connoisseur, my mother opted for the Roasted Pumpkin and Sage Risotto with a chestnut and watercress salad – it was well cooked and full of winter flavours. We both finished with something off their irresistible pudding menu. I could not resist the Black Forest Baked Alaska, a harp back to my childhood but with so much more finesse. A black cherry ice cream sits atop a thin chocolate cake base with a mountain of fluffy meringue encasing it all. Torched to give the most wonderful showstopper pudding – it tasted as good as it looked. Chocolate and Hazelnut Mousse with vanilla ice-cream proved a good choice for my mother – a light mousse coated in finely chopped golden hazelnuts – it would have satisfied the most discerning pudding critic. A great dining experience; attentive service and excellent food.

Lunch for EVEN less 2017

The Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington

The Olive Branch, Clipsham

www.langarhall.co.uk IGHT top restaurants have once again The Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington teamed up to offer a fine lunch at an 2 Courses for £13.50 (3rd Course for £3.00) exceptionally low price. Offer Valid – Monday, 9th January to Friday, 31st You can enjoy a two-course lunch from March Including Valentine’s Day 01572 822477 £13.50 and add a third course from just www.marquessexeter.co.uk £2.50 extra at some of our best local The Olive Branch, Clipsham eateries including The Olive Branch, 2 Courses for £17.50 (3rd Course Hambleton Hall and The Berkeley for £4.00) Offer Valid – Monday, Arms. 16th January to Friday, 31st Restaurants and pubs: March Excluding Valentine’s The Berkeley Arms, Day 01780 410355 www. Wymondham 2 Courses for theolivebranchpub.com £13.95 (3rd Course for £4.00) The Wicked Witch, Ryhall Offer Valid – Wednesday, 18th 2 Courses for £14.95 (3rd January to Friday, 31st March Course for £3.00) Offer Closed on Mondays – Excluding Valid – Tuesday, 17th January Valentine’s Day 01572 787587 Hambleton Hall to Saturday, 15th April Closed on www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk Mondays, including Valentine’s Day Hambleton Hall, Nr. Oakham 01780 763649 2 Courses for £28.00 (3rd Course for £7.00) www.thewickedwitchexperience.co.uk (including 12.5% discretionary service) Offer The Wheatsheaf, Greetham 2 Courses for Valid – Monday, 16th January to Friday, 3rd £14.50 (3rd Course £2.50) Offer Valid - Tuesday March Excluding Saturdays & Valentine’s Day 24th January to Friday, 31st March Closed on 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com Mondays & early January Including Valentine’s Hart’s, Nottingham 2 Courses for £17.00 Day 01572 812325 (3rd Course for £4.50) (excluding service) www.wheatsheaf-greetham.co.uk Offer Valid – Tuesday, 3rd January to Tuesday, 28th February, Including Valentine’s Day 0115 Valid from Monday to Friday or Saturday, the 9881900 www.hartsnottingham.co.uk offer is variable to each restaurant. To make Langar Hall, Langar 2 Courses for £18.50 (3rd your reservation, please call the restaurant of Course for £5.00) Offer Valid – Wednesday, your choice and quote the ‘Lunch for Even Less’ 11th January to Friday, 31st March Excluding offer. Subject to availability. Saturdays & Valentine’s Day 01949 860559 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

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HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS Shops & Services in Market Harborough

Lewis Carroll’s magical world comes to life for local charity Rainbows

EICESTERSHIRE-BASED Graham Fletcher, a former Royal Ballet star, has been busy rehearsing almost 200 young dancers in preparation for a very special performance that will help support Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. The talented youngsters, who all train at Graham’s school, Dance Activate, will perform an original show ‘Alice and the Mad Hatter!’ at De Montfort Hall on Sunday 22 January at 6pm. Dance Activate’s principal, former Royal ballet principal and west end star Graham Fletcher says “the show promises to bring Lewis Carroll’s magical word to life, with our young performers aged from just 4 to 18 transporting their audience into a world of imagination that includes a pirouetting red queen, slinky silver caterpillars, toe-tapping beetles and a truly international tea party! “To perform at De Montfort Hall is a fantastic opportunity, and by doing so, if my

young cast of performers can help to raise money for Rainbows Charity Hospice, who work so hard to help life limited children and young people, that will be really very special for them.” Alison Furlong, Rainbows Community Fundraiser in Leicester, said: “I would like to thank everyone who is involved with this incredible performance. Alice and the Mad Hatter! promises to be a great show and I would encourage people to go along and support Rainbows. Rainbows cares for

hundreds of children and young people with life limiting illnesses and their families. Without the help of our fundraisers, we simply wouldn’t be able to open our doors every day to those families who need us the most.” • If you would like to enjoy ‘Alice and The Mad Hatter!’ and help support a really great cause, tickets are now on sale online at www.demontforthall.co.uk or at box office on 0116 233 3111.

Millington Travel arrives in Market Harborough

ILLINGTON Travel have arrived in Market Harborough, opening the doors to its brand new store on the High Street shortly before Christmas. The company, which was founded all the way back in 1972, has been steadily expanding across the county and beyond in recent years, fulfilling the fairly obvious requirement for a way to buy more complicated travel arrangements without getting lost on the internet. “The rapid rise on the internet over the past 15 years was the death knell of a once thriving high street travel industry,” commented CoManaging Director, Nigel Armitage. “So much so that in this day and age you would be hard pushed to find anywhere to actually sit down in front of a real person and discuss your travel needs over a cup of tea, and then let them come up with

the answer rather than having to do it yourself. “The irony is,” Nigel continues, “that most of the time we can do all the hard work and get you a better deal in any case. And your holiday will be completely ABTA & ATOL protected.” Market Harborough is the 10th Millington’s branch to open, the others being in Leicester, Lutterworth, Melton Mowbray, Syston, Loughborough, Kettering & Nuneaton. As well as tailor-made holidays all over the world, Millingtons is also more than capable of booking the ‘short-haul’ stuff, with almost 50% of their destinations actually being to the Mediterranean. “Our message is not ‘Can you afford to book with us?’, said Nigel. “It’s ‘Can you afford not to?’” RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

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L O C A L HIST O R Y

Votes for Women! WORDS: CAROLINE ASTON

‘Convicts and women, kindly note, Are not allowed to have the vote! The difference between the two I will now indicate to you... When once the harmful man of crime In Wormwood Scrubs has done his time He the poll may have his way The harmless woman never may.’

OTING has been on all our minds just lately, with Brexit and Mr Donald Trump looming large in the papers - so maybe it’s time to remind ourselves just how very hard women struggled to get that basic right. And Market Harborough boasted two leading lights in the suffragette movement. William Logan (1845-1925), known as ‘Paddy’ to his friends, was twice the Liberal MP for Harborough from 1891-1904 and from 1910-1916, resigning due to health problems both times. He’d arrived in Leicestershire from Sheffield in 1876 to supervise a railway contract for his civil engineering firm Logan and Hemingway. Home was East Langton Grange and this thoughtful, kind and philanthropic man provided a cricket ground and village hall for East Langton and built a care home for the children of any men killed in his works. As time went on he was to change his political colours - having started out a Conservative, he gravitated towards the Liberals and then to what he called ‘extreme radicalism’. The early 1920s saw him stating that if he were a working man he would vote Labour. With a father like this, it comes as no surprise that his two daughters Isobel and Nora became political activists in the struggle to get votes for women.

Both girls were swept up into this long and bitter fight and joined the WSPU - the Womens’ Social and Political Union, headed up by the charismatic Mrs Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughter Christabel. Feeling themselves ignored by government the Suffragettes, as they became known, set out to make sure it was impossible to overlook them by embarking on militant action. This was war: papers painted a largely unsympathetic picture of unfeminine harpies who smashed windows, chained themselves to railings and put home-made bombs in pillar boxes. But it took a while for action to be ramped up to this level and the two Logan girls, paid up members of the WSPU, chafed at the slowness of developments. Isobel ultimately resigned her membership, having been a highly visible supporter who attended meetings in her own motor car, quite a rarity back then. In 1909 she was one of the 27 women arrested for smashing windows in Whitehall and Downing Street. True to form Isobel refused to pay a fine, opting instead to go the prison for her offence. Nora too had also ‘done time’. On 15th July 1908 the Home Secretary Herbert Gladstone made mention of ‘Paddy’ Logan’s ladies when answering a parliamentary question. The two Misses Logan would have been ‘treated as all other prisoners in the

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2017

second division... in separate confinement for about 22 and a half hours out of the 24... not allowed to converse with each other, nor to receive letters until they had been one month in prison’. They were, however, allowed two library books a week! Isobel Logan was imprisoned with Dorothy Pethwick and Dorothy Bowker - all went on hunger strike and were no strangers to the barbaric practice of force feeding, something which ruined the health of many women. Things reached fever pitch in Leicestershire with the burning down of Blaby station in July 1914, the same year that Nevill Holt, former home of the Cunard family, was attacked by suffragette arsonists. 1918 saw partial victory for brave women like the Logan sisters. Women of 30 or over were given the vote, but only those who owned a certain amount of property, though ALL men over 21 were granted the privilege. Ten years later, victory was finally won when all women over 21 were given the right to place their cross on the ballot paper. And the Logans? They became committed anti-vivisectionists, growing old together in a mansion flat overlooking Regents Park Zoo in London and remembering those vanished Market Harborough days when ‘Votes for Women!’ was their battle cry.

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