Rutland Living May 2016

Bespoke Catering

Summer Fashion

Health & Beauty

RUTLAND LIVING

Local Food

Oakham Castle Makeover

COVERING RUTLAND, MARKET HARBOROUGH & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

Here Comes The Sun W E B S I T E w w w. r u t l a n d l i v i n g . c o . u k RL MAY COVER.indd 1

GET IN TOUCH

MAY 2016 £1.50 05

9 771741 580014

@RutlandLiving 20/04/2016 16:24

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

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

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

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Showroom Opening Times

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

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

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

22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ 2

1 Meadow View, Uffington Road Stamford, PE9 2EX

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

May Contents www.rutlandliving.co.uk www.marketharboroughliving.co.uk

A

S my departure grows closer, I am suddenly appreciating all things English and local, of course, so what better than a country garden? And many thanks to the National Gardens Scheme for providing the front cover.

Since its foundation, the National Gardens Scheme has donated over £45 million to nominated beneficiaries, predominantly nursing and caring charities, of which nearly £23 million has been donated within the last ten years. For most of their beneficiaries, including Macmillan, Marie Curie, Hospice, they are the largest cumulative donor in their histories.

Mary Berry was recently announced as the new President of this national organisation. She has apparently been a very keen supporter of the charity over the years, opening her garden for the last 20. She’s keen to encourage new recruits and commented that in 20 years, “no-one has ever even left a cigarette end”!

June 2016 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown and the charity will be supporting The Capability Brown Festival by opening a group of Brown-designed gardens over the county; Packington Hall in Warwickshire is our closest and is open on Sunday 15 May (2 - 5pm) – find out more on line: www. ngs.org.uk.

There are also many gardens in Rutland and Leicestershire open from now and you can find full details of locations and more information by clicking on the Leicestershire and Rutland page on the website.

Amander has more information about the local offerings on page 43. And if you would like to support the charity contact the County Organiser, Colin Olle on Tel: 01858 575791 or email: colin.olle@ngs.org.uk.

May is usually my favourite month of the year – decent weather, suppers outside and children playing in the park.

So let’s make the most of it and, as my husband would say, “take stock”.

Abigail

6 Editor’s Selection Out and About

8 Fashion

Summer Accessories

15 Recipe

Spring Time Zing

18 Food and Drink Tipsy Teas

20 Food and Drink

The Rutland Pie Company

22 Home and Garden

Lifestyle Enhancement with QKS

24 Home and Garden Interior Updates

29 Home & Garden Create a Focal Point

31 Health and Beauty Here Comes the Sun!

35 Health and Beauty Beautica

37 Diary Dates

What’s on in our region this month

41 Eating out

The Courtyard at Rutland Water Golf Course

41 Updates

Careers’ Counselling

43 Shops and Services Updates

47 Gardening

Outdoor Living

49 Shops and Services Harborough Happenings

53 Local History Oakham Castle

54 Out and About West Lodge Farm

57 Local People Riding for the Disabled

RL Cover: Thanks to the National Gardens Scheme, www.ngs.org.uk.

MH cover: Thanks to Dorte Photography, www. dorte.co.uk and Audrey’s Bespoke Caterers see page 18. Thanks to Lavender Blue florists.

Rutland Cycling

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59 Local Charities @RutlandLiving INCORPORATING

Village Lifestyle

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

60 Out and About 62 Local People

Challenging Times Ahead

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 MAY 2016

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

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

01780 400 500

ahorangeries.co.uk

Stylish windows and doors whatever your project

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Oak House Residential Care Home for the Elderly

Award Winning Care Home

Are you feeling like you need a break?

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

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

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

Summer Edit

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

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ED I T OR’S SE LE CTI O N

Out and About

Don’t forget the 184th Rutland County Show which takes place on Sunday 5th June. Tickets are now available online: www. rutlandcountyshow.com.

See page 43.

With two bank holidays and half term this month, Abigail Richardson suggests some ideas to get you out and about locally Burghley House, Stamford If you haven’t been to Burghley House then now is the time. The Garden of Surprises is now open daily from 11am to 5pm. Guided tours of the main house can be arranged on request at 10.30am or 3.00pm on Monday to Thursday, subject to availability. To book call Gemma Rigby on Tel: 01780 752451 ext.171. Self-guided tours are also available form £12pp.

Logon to www.burghley.co.uk for further information.

Why not take a picnic and enjoy the grounds?

Otters Fine Foods Want a special hamper for the occasion?

– Leo at Otters on Mill Street can provide you with all your favourite goodies (From £12). Sure to hit the spot is his beautifully smoked salmon.

Order on line for convenience: www. ottersfinefoods. co.uk.

Rutland Charcuterie For your locally produced Salamis, Coppa, Bresaola, Noix de Jambon, Duck Prosciutto, Biltong then logon to Rutland Charcuterie www.rutlandcharcuterie.com

Rockingham Castle - Jousting Rocking Castle is now open daily till the end of May. Looking ahead to Sunday 12th June, The Knights of Nottingham and the Oxford Household make a return to Rockingham Castle. With baronial banners streaming, the glint of the sun on steel bladed swords and axes, the armoured knights will fight it out on horseback and on foot. There will also be a fire eating display, a jester in the grounds and storytelling for children.

Take a look round the castle for only one more £1 while you are there: Combined event & Castle ticket: Adults £11.50, Children (5-16 years) £8.50, Family (2 adults + 2 children) £31.50.

You can also book tours and discover opening times for June and beyond online: www.rockinghamcastle.com/opening-times-and-prices.

PHOTO: KEITH SIMPSON

Rutland Water Rutland Water is always a crowd pleaser. Head to Whitwell for Rutland Cycling- hire a bike electronic or push, to negotiate the 25 miles round trip, the RockBlok, an outdoor adventure centre with rock climbing and tree top high ropes, hop on the Rutland Belle for a leisurely cruise around the water or simply take refreshment at The Harbour Cafe Bar overlooking the water.

Head to Sykes Lane, Empingham for the Rutland Water Beach, the Rutland Water Interactive Visitor Centre, a Mini Golf Course, the seasonal refreshment kiosk and the Children’s Adventure Playground.

Normanton Church is of course Rutland’s most famous landmark. It was saved from the water and has become a favourite location for civil weddings and concerts.

It is open to the public on selected dates. Telephone the Visitor Centre for more information, Tel: 01780 686800.

Logon to www.discover-rutland.co.uk/disco ver-rutland/rutland-water for all the details.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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

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F ASHI ON

The Finishing Touch From stylish bags to funky sunglasses, here’s our guide to the ultimate in summer accessories FASHION: NIKKI BEATTY PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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From top – left to right, Tribe + Fable necklaces £45 each, Ash Jam pump, £134, Coccinelle clutch bag, £55, all Cavells, Yosi Samra gold sandals, £105, Vanilla, Necklace, £65, Nicola Hardy, Vic Matie mid heel sandals, £185, Cavells, Kennel and Schmenger flat sandals, £145, CoCo, Coccinelle Tote bag, £190 ,Cavells, Miss Shorthair butterfly scarf, £35, Duo, Oakley Frogskin sunglasses, £125 each, Langrick and Coe, Ash Python knit trainer, £128, Cavells, In Wear red leather belt, £44, Vanilla.

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20/04/2016 16:38

Is it time to re-discover your hearing?

Missing the odd word during the conversation?

Having to turn the TV up?

If these situations sound familiar you may benefit from a free hearing assessment.

Healthy Hearing are your local hearing experts. With many years of experience we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive hearing healthcare service and finding the best solutions for your needs.

Call us for: • Free expert hearing advice • Free lifestyle hearing assessments • Free trials of the latest digital hearing aid technology • Home visits available

Call us today for your FREE hearing assessment

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

With our help your hearing can only get better.

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Gorgeous Vintage Crockery For Hire

Perfect to celebrate ththe Queen’s 90 Birthday

Our unique vintage tea cups, plates, tea pots and cake stands will add a little bit of nostalgia or a touch of timeless vintage elegance to any tea party or wedding, giving your event that extra sparkle or grace.

We pride ourselves on providing a friendly, professional and affordable service, we are extremely competitively priced so call for more information.

07736 397 620 info@vintageteachina.co.uk

The Professional Cat Sitting Service providing a bespoke alternative to using a cattery.

Your cat will thank you for it!

Offering a friendly, flexible and caring service, I am fully insured and police checked with over 6 years cat sitting experience. References can be supplied if requested.

Covering Rutland, Stamford,Oakham and surrounding areas.

Phone: 07464 679090 Email: sarah@purrfect-catsitting.co.uk Web: www.purrfect-catsitting.co.uk

A GOLD STANDARD CARE AGENCY Small bespoke family run agency.

We specialise in 24 hour live in care.

Long and short term placements.

All levels of care.

Phone Heather to discuss our friendly personal service

01572 869138

9 High Street, Oakham, Rutland. LE15 6AH www.alwaystakecare.com

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STOCKISTS Duo, Oakham, Tel: 01572 722116, www.duoboutique.co.uk Cavells, Oakham, Tel: 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk Vanilla, Oakam, Tel: 01572 757577, www.vanillaboutique.co.uk CoCo Shoes, Oakham, Tel: 01572 757646, cocooakham.co.uk Langrick & Coe Opticians, Oakham, Tel: 01572 724407, opticians-oakham-meltonmowbray.co.uk Nicola Hardy, Tel: 07875 589688, nicolak.hardy@btinternet.com WITH THANKS TO: Elli Dean for the amazing photography www.ellideanphotography.co.uk, Tel: 07932 055548.

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From top – left to right, Essentiel wooden necklace, £38, Cavells, Cream black hat, £29.99, Duo, Macarena fringed espadrilles, £59, Cavells, Kanna wedge espadrilles, £85, CoCo, Smith and Canova clutch bag, £48.50, Vanilla, Little Treats earrings, £10, Duo, Bolla leather bag, £71.99, Vanilla, Necklace, £65, Nicola Hardy, In Wear narrow leather bracelet, £11.95, In Wear red leather bracelet, £11.95, In Wear wide leather bracelet, £17.95, all from Vanilla, Cream Nanzie hat, £22.99, Duo, Chanel sunglasses, £279, Langrick and Coe, Cefalu mid heeled sandal, £115, Vanilla.

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The Berkeley Arms in Wymondham

Award Winning Country Pub Michelin Bib Gourmand Award 2012, 2013 & 2014 Melton Times Business Award Best Eating Experience 2011 & 2014 Countryside Alliance Awards - Highly Commended 2013

Exquisite Locally Sourced Food  Cask Ales  Fine Wines

01572 787587

www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk

MEMORABLE CUISINE FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY

Country Inn and Restaurant

DELICIOUS FOOD BEAUTIFULLY SERVED

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

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

Why not join us for Sunday Lunch?

Choice of 3 roasts all served with the traditional trimmings £9.95 for one course up to £15.95 for three courses

Curry Night

1st Thursday of every month.

Two course menu with selection of starters, followed by three homemade curries £10.95 a head

Friday Lunchtime Special

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

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

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

Call Sarah on 01572 747909 or 07970 576882

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

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

Tel: 01536 770268 www.thehattonarms.com

14 Arnhill Road, Gretton | Northants, NN17 3DN

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SEAN HOP E C O O K S

Spring-time Zing

Sean Hope, head chef at The Olive Branch, makes good use of one of spring’s most flavoursome ingredients

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EEING – and smelling – the zingy green leaves of wild garlic is one of the first and most enjoyable signs of spring. With its wonderful aroma, it’s a joy to take a woodland walk and find this special plant, which thrives in earthy, damp, shady conditions. We’re huge fans of wild garlic here at The Olive Branch, so much so that we make our own wild garlic pesto using leaves foraged in Rutland, which you can buy in jars in our Pub Shop, located at the back of the pub.

Wild garlic pesto can be used in lots of dishes, including as a base for plenty of pastabased recipes, plus as a marinade for all manner of meats, especially spring lamb.

Here’s one of my favourite recipes using this fantastic seasonal ingredient, complemented by two other punchy spring-time classics – garden radish and watercress.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN THE PUB SHOP Our wild garlic pesto is one of several homemade classics we create here in the kitchen at The Olive Branch, jar up and sell in our Pub Shop. Other own-recipe homemade delights for sale include our special Fruity Brown Sauce (the perfect bacon sandwich accompaniment!), Tomato Sauce, Cucumber Ketchup and Marmalade. We also make our own energy-packed muesli, which you can buy here in packets.

Local producers are also well represented in the Pub Shop, including Rutland Charcuterie Company, Colsterworth Honey and Priory Farm Free Range Eggs.

WILD GARLIC RISOTTO WITH GARDEN RADISH Serves 4 • 30g butter • 1 tbsp rapeseed oil • 1 small onion, chopped finely • 1 clove of garlic, chopped finely • 250g risotto rice (Arborio) • Splash white wine and Madeira • 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock (hot) • 4 tablespoons Olive Branch Pub Shop wild garlic pesto • 4 garden radishes – washed, thinly sliced, chilled on ice • 1 small bunch fresh watercress • Handful pine nuts • Parmesan 1. Sweat off the garlic and onion in the butter and oil until soft 2. Add the rice, stir and coat the grains for two minutes before adding the alcohol 3. Gradually add the hot stock until the grains are perfectly cooked (around 15 minutes) 4. Finish with the wild garlic pesto and season to taste 5. Top the risotto with fresh shavings of garden radish, watercress, Parmesan and toasted pine nuts

PASSIONATE ABOUT GOOD FOOD? If you are passionate about local food and drink then you might like to join Great Food Club.

• Sign up at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk, free of charge.

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Advertisement Feature

Thinking of downsizing your home?

There is now a specialist downsizing service from Moores Estate Agents, PMR and Greenwoods Solicitors LLP

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hether you are freeing up capital to enjoy life, or circumstances dictate a move away from a much loved family home, downsizing is usually an emotional time and one which requires empathy and the extra care professional specialists in the area can provide. Vernon Moore is Managing Director of Moores Estate Agents and offers a bespoke downsizing service to those in the retirement sector.

“Moores offer a complete downsizing service guiding you through the process from valuation to completion giving you peace of mind and taking away a great deal of worry.

We have also surrounded ourselves with a fabulous team of professionals in their individual fields to benefit Moores’ clients.”

Working as part of the downsizing team are Faith Bailey and Lisa Ashmore of PMR who offer help and advice to ensure homes reach the market at their best potential with minimal cost. The service is purely cosmetic and aims to create a clear view for potential purchasers - anything from a coat of paint to a thorough de-clutter. Working with certified trade professionals their aim is to help you increase the value of the property by getting it market ready. All these elements combined together will ensure your property gets to the market as speedily and smoothly as possible at the top of its market value with minimum heartache and cost to you and your family.

Also offering specialist advice and with a reputation built on years of expertise and regional knowledge, is the experienced and technically excellent private client team at Greenwoods Solicitors LLP. The team provide a complete service to individuals for all their wealth management and legal matters.

“Clients facing significant decisions in life, such as moving home to be closer to family, a downsizing move, or making the transition into care homes, may find planning for the future rather overwhelming. However, these situations provide a positive opportunity to review financial situations, Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney and to ensure all documentation is updated to deliver the outcome you desire,” explains Sally Cox from Greenwoods. “Our private client team

Vernon Moore, Managing Director, Moores Estate Agents

Sally Cox, Solicitor, Greenwoods Solicitors LLP

Faith Bailey & Lisa Ashmore, Property Market Ready (PMR). solicitors are experienced advisers and members of specialist groups including the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners and Solicitors for the Elderly. Greenwoods’ private client team takes time and care to get to know generations of the same families to provide peace of mind during some of the most challenging stages of life.”

The team provide advice on tax and estate planning; trust law, probate law, Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and family business restructuring. Greenwoods also has an experienced Deputy and Court of Protection solicitor who can assist and support you in making applications to the Court of Protection such as for the appointment of a Deputy or in the making of a Statutory Will or Gift Applications.

Where appropriate they can also arrange for a professional to act as a Deputy.

With offices in Peterborough, Cambridge and London, Greenwoods’ lawyers bring technical excellence to Rutland and the eastern region and they are professional, approachable and friendly.

Members of the Greenwoods team are happy to meet with you, either at one of their offices or will visit you at home.

For further information on the services Greenwoods provide visit www.greenwoods.co.uk or Tel: 01733 887670.

With offices across the region, contact Moores at www.mooresestateagents.com or Tel: 01572 757979 for valuations or advice on any aspect of downsizing. To contact PMR call Faith or Lisa Tel: 07919 568949

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HO M E & GAR D E N

Audrey’s Bespoke Caterers Kirstie Mitchell discovers bespoke Catering with a difference…

PHOTOS: DORTE PHOTOGRAPHY, WWW.DORTE.CO.UK

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HEN I come to think of it, wouldn’t it be a wonderful experience to be served afternoon tea at a wedding breakfast? Who can resist those delicate fresh finger sandwiches, delightful cakes, and scones with jam and clotted cream? However, as I found out at the official launch of Audrey’s Bespoke Caterers, afternoon tea doesn’t have to be just sandwiches, scones and cream cakes! I was delighted to be invited to sample ‘Audrey’s Tipsy Afternoon Tea’ - a cocktail inspired afternoon tea. “My grandmother, Audrey, was my inspiration for the business,” explains local business woman Sian Tooke, who along with her partner, has created a high-end catering business, specialising in traditional and bespoke afternoon teas.

Sian has 15 years’ experience in the hospitality and catering industry managing restaurants and working as an events’ manager for an outside catering company and her husband was a 2 Rosette Head Chef working in successful high-end restaurants. “Audrey’s has always been a dream that we are now making reality,” explains Sian.

The husband and wife team have created an inspiring afternoon tea and canapé menus to suit all tastes. “We have created a high end bespoke catering service that uses where possible, locally sourced ingredients, and if we haven’t made it ourselves then it is locally sourced, such as the Brixworth Pate used for our canapés.”

The afternoon tea menus are an interactive and quirky alternative to a sit down meal. Choose from menus such as ‘Audrey’s Something Savoury’… for those who shy away from afternoon tea - a selection of mouth-watering savoury pastries, flavoured cheese scones and delicious sandwiches or ‘Audrey’s Traditional One’…a traditional afternoon tea made with fresh local produce. Audrey’s themed menus are also proving popular. “We love a challenge!” says Sian, “If clients have a theme we can create an afternoon tea based around it…such as Asian afternoon, or chocolate lovers delight.” All menus are tailored to each client and are delivered and served at their own home or venue.

Audrey’s can cater for all types of events, from a small gathering at

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home for four people, children’s birthday parties and hen parties, to larger functions such as weddings and corporate events with 100+ guests.

The table setting for ‘Audrey’s Tipsy Afternoon Tea’ was modern with a vintage twist. “At Audrey’s we’re not all about vintage china, but we are aiming for a more modern twist with a hint of vintage here and there.”

A stunning fresh flower centrepiece (sourced from Lavender Blue in Market Harborough) adorned the table, with pretty cornflower blue vintage style napkins and modern cutlery with two silver cake tier stands, both containing an assortment of elegantly created cakes.

As I was drinking my Kir Royal sparkling cocktail and deciding which one of the fresh canapés to choose first, (lemon marinated tortellini with a sundried tomato and basil won my vote!) it dawned on me what a great idea to have someone to take the hassle out of entertaining; no dressing the table or cooking, and the best part no washing up and emptying the dishwasher!

Once seated at the beautifully set table, I happily tucked into an Amaretto Sour Cup Cake, (the sour part is the popping candy topping!)

Pimms Jelly made with ginger ale, mouth- watering Expresso Martini Chocolate Cup, Strawberry Daiquiri Macaron, Pina Colada Meringue, and my favourite - Mojito Cheesecake, presented in a mini Kilner glass jar. The finale was an aromatic chilled cup of Gin and Jasmine tea cocktail, infused with mango and papaya (delicious!) which was carefully poured from a teapot and served in a beautiful modern cup and saucer with a vintage design. “We wanted to put together a menu with a quirkiness, something completely different to the traditional afternoon tea! Many of the cakes contain alcohol hence the ‘Tipsy’ part!”

I went home a very ‘happy’ customer!

From £13.95 a head for traditional afternoon tea. The tipsy afternoon tea was from £32.95 per head and included all crockery, table settings etc 3 canapés, 6 cakes and 2 cocktails per head.

• For enquiries please contact Sian on Tel: 07969 108083 or audreyscaterers@gmail.com

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Residential Lettings & Property Management Professionals for Stamford, Oakham and the surrounding areas

39 Broad Street Stamford Lincs. PE9 1PX t. 01780 769269

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

The Rutland Pie Co

Inspired by the recent 2016 British Pie Awards, Matt Wright gets stuck into some local pastry...

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ITH the British Pie Awards having taken place down the road at St Mary’s Church in Melton Mowbray in March, my mind is firmly on pastry for this issue’s article. This year’s Supreme UK Pie Champion, beating 815 other entrants, was controversial to say the least – a beef pasty made by family-run A.F. Huddleston Butchers in the Lake District.

“Outrageous!” I hear you cry. “A pasty is a pasty and a pie is a pie.” Maybe so, but the technical definition of a pie, according to the awards organisers, is a filling totally encased in pastry, so I’ll leave you to make peace with this baking bombshell in your own personal way.

But it wasn’t all controversy at the 2016 awards.

One local producer who deservedly did well without infuriating any pie aficionados is Ian Curtis, who co-founded Oakham-based Rutland Pie Company in 2014. At the latest awards Ian won gold medals for his Bramley Apple Pie and his Steak & Ale with Mushroom Pie, plus several other gongs, including one for a gluten-free pie (Ian offers several gluten-free creations).

Ian, 49, has his roots in baking and his first job was at Langham village bakery aged 11, where he worked until it was forced to close due to pressure from supermarkets. “I then dipped out of baking to work in the family engineering businesses,” Ian says. “But that didn’t provide the same job satisfaction as baking.

However, it wasn’t until much later that I re-entered the bakery industry, first at Hopcrofts, then at Morrisons in Stamford, and then in 2009 at Northfield Farm in Cold Overton, where I helped them to win several awards for their pies.”

The seeds of Rutland Pie Company were sown in 2012 in a rather unusual way. Ian explains: “I was helping a friend with a painting job and because it was Christmas, I presented the client with one of my chicken, ham and leek pies. After eating it, the client approached me and gave me an amazing opportunity to go into business!”

Rutland Pie Co was formed the following year after finding suitable premises in Oakham, with Ian doing the pie-making and his silent partner, who had been blown away by Ian’s chicken, ham and leek pie, doing the rest.

• I can heartily recommend Ian’s pies and to find out more and buy online, visit www.rutlandpie.co.uk.

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OTHER LOCAL WINNERS Other pie-makers from nearby who did well at the 2016 British Pie Awards include Nelson’s Butchers of Stamford, which scooped Silver for its Melton Mowbray pork pie; Hambleton Farms (Gaol St, Oakham) – silver for its Breakfast Pie; and Leeson’s Butchers of Oakham – bronze for its Melton Mowbray pork pie.

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AND THE BEST RABBIT PIE? I recently stumbled across a local producer called Rutland Rabbit, which makes what I understand to be outstanding rabbit pies. Now rabbit pies aren’t something you see much of these days but they are an undoubted classic and I was eager to find out more.

It turns out Rutland Rabbit is a highwelfare, family-run rabbit farm based in rural Leicestershire, run by Julie and Anthony Griffiths. Founded in 2014, Rutland Rabbit was born after Julie began searching for ethicallyfarmed rabbit meat. Her husband had been diagnosed with hiatus hernias and the doctor recommended they substitute all meat in their meals for farmed rabbit as it is lower in fat, higher in protein and more easily digested than other meat.

“Try as I might I couldn’t find any rabbit meat that was farmed in a way I was comfortable with,” says Julie, “so we set about producing our own higher-welfare rabbit meat and even built our own slaughterhouse. Our rabbit is bred, raised and slaughtered at home in a stress-free environment.”

• To find out more visit www.rutlandrabbit.co.uk

About the writer

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

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

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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HO M E & GAR D E N

QKS can Truly Enhance Your Home First it was conservatories, then it was kitchen extensions, now it’s all about lifestyle enhancement

Q

KS Homes has been in the business of enhancing your home for many years, but the bar keeps getting raised and Nick Clipston, the owner, feels that QKS are perfectly positioned to help give your home not just additional space but also that highly desirable ‘wow’ factor.

“Gone are the days when people order a rectangular box to add on to the end of their home for maybe a kitchen or living space; they are now much more ambitious in their desired result – and our company can bring all the different elements together to create something truly exceptional – glass roofs, aluminium, Orangeries, hi spec glazing, combinations, you name it, we can help design it and install it.”

“People want a lot more glass, open plan living; and we are at the forefront of offering that”. QKS has three building teams on the go at any time, with a full range of building and installation skills that enables them to tackle pretty much any project, however ambitious.

Come and visit the showroom, start dreaming and let them turn that into reality.

Also, take a look at their new website.

Bringing your garden into your home As part of its drive to offer the widest and most innovative range of solutions on the market, QKS has recently been appointed as registered installers of Weinor extensions, one of only seven installers across the UK. Weinor extensions are a very costefficient and stylish way to help bring your garden into your home. It consists of a Terrazza patio roof which can be closed with all-glass elements to form an uninsulated conservatory. The many flexible and fixed-glazed side elements allow for any number of possible combinations.

This is just one way of blurring the lines between the inside and the outside; and extending the season. Take a look at www.weinor.com • QKS Home, Unit 4, Priory Industries, Cherryholt La, Stamford PE9 2EQ Tel: 01780 756666 www.qks-ltd.co.uk

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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The Orangery & Garden Room Specialist

Let your local orangery specialist broaden your horizons to a new contemporary way of living.

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HO M E & GAR D E N

Interior Updates Nicola Hardy finds out what’s on trend this season…

On Trend Rugs for Fabulous Floors…

Fabulous Floors - Luxury Vinyl Tiles Floors now have been treated to a new level of practical luxury - Luxury Vinyl Tiles - they come in a variety of natural designs from realistic wood grains to elegant stones and rustic slates and are wonderfully designed to sit timelessly into both traditional and contemporary homes. They are perfect for kitchens and bathrooms as they have PU layers and are water resistant; they can even be used with underfloor heating for extra comfort. Not only are they beautiful to look at - these Vinyl floors are hard wearing, sound absorbent, scuff-proof, long lasting and low maintenance. By choosing a stone effect floor, you’ll find it much warmer underfoot than real stone - which is also costly and easy to scratch.

Both Welland Flooring and Barefoot Flooring are long established family run businesses, offering enthusiastic personal service, genuine unbiased advice with attention to detail. They stock a wide choice of all types of flooring - from these fabulous LVTs to genuine wood, wood laminate, stylish vinyls and cosy carpets. Prices are always competitive and they include accurate measuring up, planning and a free sample loan service.

Over the past few years a new trend has been emerging in the rug industry. Older rugs have been given an exciting makeover to complement modern homes. While the colours and designs of traditional rugs retain their beauty and value, they don’t always fit into contemporary interior design schemes. So this is why these vibrant overdyed rugs have gained popularity - although intrinsically still an original handcrafted work of art, they’ve brought them back to life with vivid colour infusion. The Rug Studio and Oakham Rugs have a wonderful selection of these statement rugs which come in many different colour combinations.

• Contact: The Rug Studio, Uppingham, Tel: 01572 829927, www.therugstudio. co.uk and Oakham Rugs, Oakham Tel: 01572 724441, www.oakhamorientalrugs.co.uk

• Contact: Barefoot flooring, Oakham, Tel: 01572 759752, www.barefoot-flooing.biz, Welland Flooring Co Ltd, Corby, Tel: 01536 265195, www,wellandflooring.com

Unique Furniture For some truly individual pieces head to Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors in Oakham.

Due to the popularity of furniture commissions for clients and the sheer enthusiasm held by Elizabeth Stanhope for all that is beautiful and functional, Elizabeth and her team have launched their own brand of furniture. Designed by Elizabeth Stanhope, and handmade locally in the UK at Long Eaton, Lizzy explains that the collection has “evolved through a desire to create beautifully crafted and luxurious furniture, focusing on well thought out design, establishing a service based on affordable quality.”

Pictured here is the Loveseat, at £650 and the Langam chair at £595.

• Pop into 27 Mill Street, Oakham, or call Tel: 01572 722345 for further information.

Beautiful Blinds - Inshade Sails 5 Day Blinds are an authorised reseller of Inshade Sails - innovative, fashionable, fun and easy to maintain window treatments that keep the sun’s glare out. Not only do they look stunning, they can be made in any shape possible no matter how elaborate and are available in white, standard or custom colours. The sail’s external surface has a solar reflectance of 72% making them extremely effective at reducing heat from the sun’s rays, keeping conservatories and garden rooms bearable in the summer. They are fast becoming the blind of choice due to their modern sculptural appeal, practicality and are machine washable too! They can be fully removed in seconds, when washed can be hooked back in place without drying or ironing. 5 Day Blinds will create an individual CAD design to suit each installation, when made they will be specifically positioned for optimum efficiency.

5 Day Blinds supply all types of blinds including roller, vertical, venetian, roman and electric blinds. They also make curtains, in any fabric of your choice, from their collections or any designer range - their suppliers have access to the entire market place.

Call for a free quotation or email for size requirements to rich@5dayblinds.co.uk or book an appointment for Richard to come to you with fabric samples and professional advice.

• Contact: 5 Day Blinds Ltd, Oakham, Tel: 01572 759176, www.5dayblinds.co.uk

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5 Day Blinds

Blinds & Curtains Made to Measure & Fitted Fast Locally

We Cover Stamford, Peterborough, Rutland & Melton

FREE QUOTES!! FREE FITTING!!

Call Richard on 01572 759176 Fitting Blinds & Curtains Fast: Oakham, Rutland, Stamford, Melton & Bourne

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9 Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AX

9-1 Saturday

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

Come and see us soon.

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

Our footprint just got bigger!

MRS NEAL

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

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Louvred and Solid Window Shutters

bright ideas....

Visit our Oakham showroom to view our extensive range of stylish inspirational lighting Talk to our experienced design team and discover more about our lighting design service

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N O OW PE N

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

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

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

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www.harborough-stone.com

Harborough Lights Lighting Design Consultancy David Letts 13 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, Leicestershire. LE16 9BP Tel: 01858 467716 Mobile: 07445 532774 dal63@hotmail.co.uk

Light up Your Life In Style...

Displaying the very best in British and European decorative lighting and the latest in LED technology.

Thousands of options and bespoke manufacture offering a virtually unlimited choice.

LIGHTING With a huge selection of indoor and outdoor lighting from the best British and European manufacturers, we can cater for every style and taste.

With brands such as Franklite, Elstead, Endon, Metal-Lux and many others, we can also supply a huge range of lighting to suit every taste, décor and mood.

CONSULTANCY If you’re not sure exactly what you’re after, then we would be more than happy to suggest a lighting solution just for you.

From our extensive range of suppliers, we can source everything from a single wall light to fully integrated lighting systems – and if you can’t make it into the shop, we can visit you in the comfort of your own home.

www.housekeepingstore.co.uk 6 Northampton Road Market Harborough LE16 9HB 10% Discount with this advert Discount code HLHK10 online

BESPOKE MANUFACTURE Further to our extensive range of offthe-shelf lighting options, we also offer a bespoke manufacture and design service for that extra special lighting solution.

Contact us for further information.

13 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, LE16 9BP

www.harboroughlights.co.uk 01858 467716

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HO M E & GAR D E N

Create a Focal Point Michelle Hansel asks local experts how we can create impact in the home or garden Home is where the hearth is..

Practical perfection

A new fire or fireplace can add style, personality and warmth to your home, as well as adding value. At Harborough Stone, Market Harborough, stone fireplaces can be created to any style, shape or design to really give your room a personal touch. There is a wide range of wood or marble mantels, or maybe a beam above an opening is more to your taste?

Creating a focal point is all about you and with so many choices it really is an opportunity to create something unique and individual for you and your home. Harborough Stone also stock, fit and Hetas certify a vast selection of wood burning or multi fuel stoves, open, gas and electric fires. There are so many combinations - creating your feature fire couldn’t be easier!

If you are not looking for a complete overhaul and just fancy something new to dress your fireplace then there is an extensive range of fireside accessories available - from traditional baskets to contemporary companion sets.

From beautifully designed rugs to practical kitchen utensils, Housekeeping is a place where you will find something unique and special to add life and character to your interiors.

Housekeeping was born out of a passion for simple, functional, understated design, a need to love the everyday things that we use. “We believe that good design is timeless and when something is truly great, why change it. We stock items that have stood the test of time and we hope will be passed down to the next generation.” Create a distinctive look with individual pieces in one or all of your rooms.

• For more information call Harborough Stone on Tel: 01858 410033, www.harborough-stone.co.uk or visit their Market Harborough Showroom.

• Take a look at Housekeeping, 6 Northampton Road, Market Harborough, LE16 9HB. Email: info@housekeepingstore. co.uk, www.housekeepingstore.co.uk, Tel: 01858 410 875

Light fantastic One of the greatest ways to capture the essence of a room is by adding statement lighting to create an immediate focal point.

A huge floor lamp such as the Arc Lamp at Harborough Lights is a chic and modern way to create unity in a room. Place the lamp so that it hangs over the area you want to draw attention to. In conjunction with a piece of statement furniture this will significantly improve the visual and aesthetic quality of the room.

Alternatively, if you have the ceiling height, there’s nothing better than having a chandelier or modern LED pendant filling the space.

LED fittings are highly recommended and the choice and variety on offer is staggering and will save you a small fortune in running costs.

LED lamps use around 10% of the energy that the older incandescent lamps used.

• Contact Harborough Lights on Tel: 01858 467716, www.harboroughlights.co.uk 13 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, LE16 9BP

Glorious Gardens

Treasure trove

Why not try landscaping or redesigning your garden this summer for real impact?

Ground Qube is a landscape and garden design company based in Leicestershire who offer expertise and services for landscape & garden design, landscape construction and planting & horticulture. From the Ground Qube design studio the companies’ partners, Joseph Wilson and Jack Guttridge lead the firms’ commitment to excel in landscape design whilst remaining sympathetic to the diverse requirements of each client and the location of each project. Their projects range from inner city courtyards to rural estates and commercial landscape design.

An eclectic mix of vintage pieces can be found at Keals in Market Harborough. Choose from handmade cushions, gifts and accessories to one-off classics, you will find something unique and interesting here which can inspire your whole interior scheme. Keals has an ever-changing and stunning mix of home items that will inspire and create a talking point in your home. Bespoke furniture can also be created for you here too.

• For examples of their work, design inspiration and information go to www.gqgardens.com, Tel: 01858 571047

• Keals, 10A Abbey Street, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 419798

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

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

01780 400 500

ahorangeries.co.uk

Let the outside in SEE YOUR HOME IN A NEW LIGHT

01858 445480

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating:

Divorce:

We’ll help clarify your situation If you’re facing divorce, our local experts are here to help with free initial advice and free walk-in clinics.

Clinic Timetable Tuesdays 12:30 - 2pm Thursdays 4 - 5pm Call Alistair or Rina today for honest and constructive advice about divorce, separation, children and finances on 01858 445 480.

“I’m sure my divorce could have been much more stressful had it not been for Alistair.”

Millers House, Roman Way, Market Harborough

www.lawson-west.co.uk

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence • Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking • Anxieties, phobias, obsessions

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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

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

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

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HE AL T H & B E A U TY

Summer’s approaching which means you need to think lighter, brighter and fresher in terms of your beauty routine. So ditch the dark red lipstick and smoky eyes; it’s time to embrace the natural look again.

By Catherine Varney

Here Comes the Sun! Gorgeous, glowing skin

If your skin’s playing up, it may be more than just the transition from winter into summer. As our skin constantly evolves, we need to regularly check we’re still using the correct skincare products. I went along to visit Nicola Harrold at the newly-opened Body and Beauty Studio in Langham where she specialises in Katherine Daniels skincare products.

Nicola told me: “It’s really important to get regular facials (every 4-6 weeks if possible) as these will ensure you get the very best out of your skincare products throughout the year. The Age Defence Nourishing Hydrating Facial is one of our most popular choices and it’s excellent for all skin types and in particular, clients who are concerned about premature ageing.”

The team behind Katherine Daniels products have analysed all skin types and have realised the important role that environmental and climate changes play on the condition of our skin; many of us in the UK have dry and dehydrated skin without even knowing it. I tried out the cleanser, toner and moisturiser, which can be used both day and night. I love the idea of not needing a separate night cream – both for

affordability and for ease! The products felt lovely and fresh and the moisturiser glided on beautifully, leaving the perfect base for my makeup. I urge you to go along and find out what this rising star of a beauty brand could do for you.

Do blondes have more fun?

If you’re thinking of going lighter for the summer; remember, a subtle change is better than something more dramatic. Anything too light will wash out your complexion and make you look pale and wan – not the best way to start your summer style offensive. Natural blondes will find it easy to achieve with a few highlights or an all-over toner to perk their colour up (try Essence Hair and Beauty in Uppingham for fabulous natural, glossy colour by Aveda).

But what of brunettes? Subtle ombres or balayage techniques are still big news so you can keep your natural darker colour close to the crown and blend into a lighter blond at the ends. Try honey highlights on the underneath section of your hair like Dakota Johnson or the ‘Bright Brown’ trend, with a few more blonde tones running through the top, RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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HE AL T H & B E A U TY a la Alessandro Ambrosio... well if it’s good enough for the Victoria’s Secret girls, it’s good enough for us! Thomas Potts from Thomas Hairdressing owns three salons in the area and has good advice for anyone looking to go lighter: ‘Always aim for a sun-kissed look rather than a Barbie doll. The perfect test is that from across the street your new hair colour shouldn’t be noticeable; but up close, a natural, lighter colour should be apparent.”

Go ‘au naturel’

If, like me, your skin tends to react badly to chemicals and harsh additives, then it makes sense to go natural with your skincare. At Moko Hair and Spa in Market Harborough, they use Aveda products for the face and body treatments which harness the power of botanicals for effective results, without damaging delicate skin. If you feel like your skin needs a fresh start after the drying winter months then opt for the Aveda Perfecting Plant Peel. This 30 minute treatment produces the same effects as a glycolic acid peel but without associated redness and irritation.

Satisfied customers have reported dramatically reduced pore size and a clearer, more refined complexion after one treatment.

Frame your face:

Big brows are still big news so throw away those tweezers and ensure yours are welldefined and groomed, without being overly bushy. But if years of plucking and preening haven’t been kind then head over to Naomi Nails and Beauty in Market Harborough for an appointment for HD brows. Taking between 30-45 minutes, the HD Brows treatment uses a combination of tinting, waxing and threading, with stylists using a specially designed formula to give you perfectly defined brows. “Every HD Brows treatment is unique as our stylists will assess the shape of your face and colouring before creating a bespoke brow, tailored exclusively for you. Even if you have sparse areas, hope is not lost! Our expert stylists will work with you on a re-growth programme to achieve the perfect brows for you. Plus, our new Make Up by HD Brows range of brow products such as pencils, powders, brushes and more will allow you to hide those areas until they grow in.” The effects are so good, they have even been compared to a mini-facelift – a whole host of celebrity fans can’t be wrong.

OFFER:

May’s beauty bargain:

As always, Ellique in Oakham is guaranteed to be running a great-value offer and this month’s gives you the chance to chill out and relax for just £12 with a superb back, neck and shoulder massage. This 20 minute treat is ideal for slotting into your lunch break and will release tension and stress to leave you feeling relaxed and revived – the ultimate pick-me-up in next to no time (and for a pocket-money price too!)

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THE REAL GIRL’S GUIDE TO THE BARE SKIN TREND A

S summer approaches, it’s time to start thinking about throwing away that full coverage foundation and letting your natural skin do the talking. But let’s face it, unless you’re blessed with a clear, flawless complexion, you’re going to need a little bit of help to achieve that ‘natural’ look:

1

Invest in your skin care: you’ll never achieve a youthful, glowing, luminous look if you have to pile on products to disguise problem skin. Of the hundreds of products I’ve tried over the years, two are stand-out favourites: Environ skin care products (available from Naomi Nails and Beauty) which use Vitamin A to refine and re-balance skin and more recently Katherine Daniels; these are mineral oil and paraben-free which proves the less chemicals you add to your skin, the better.

Use a primer. If you don’t already, why not?! Primers improve the look of skin for absolutely everybody; minimising pores, airbrushing fine lines and ensuring foundation goes on like a dream. And if like me, you’re concerned about your foundation staying the distance due to excess oil, just choose one with mattifying properties for all-day, shine-free coverage.

Illuminate under your eyes – choose a colour ever-so-slightly lighter than your natural skin tone and this will erase all signs of late nights without looking obvious. The go-to product for most make-up artists is Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat – but I have achieved similarly impressive results with the more budget-friendly L’Oreal Touche Magique.

Onto your base – unless you’re brave enough to skip it (and once you’re over 25, who is?).

Mineral powder foundations are great because they allow the skin to breathe and coverage is buildable, meaning you can wear as much – or as little as you like. Try Mii mineral powder foundation available from Barnsdale Spa and use a good quality Kabuki brush to blend in a circular motion. But, if like me, you feel too exposed without more substantial coverage then use a liquid foundation with light-diffusing properties. I’ve recently tried Lancome’s Teint Idole Ultra foundation from the Day Lewis pharmacy in Oakham and it’s fabulous – virtually re-touch free, it doesn’t look ‘caked on’ but it conceals and covers uneven skintone and blemishes.

Dust with a translucent finishing powder (not a coloured one as you’ll undo the good work of perfectly colour-matching your foundation) and use a light hand – preferably just along your T-zone. And there you go – natural looking skin, without feeling naked.

2 3 4 5

DIRECTORY: The Body & Beauty Studio, 12 Cold Overton Road, Langham, Tel: 07917 672815, nicola@body-and-beauty.co.uk Thomas Hairdressing, The Maltings, 15 Mill Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 756561; 2 High Street, Melton Mowbray; 13-14 Churchgate, Loughborough, Tel: 01509 211010, www.thomashairdressing.co.uk Essence Hair and Beauty, 7 Market Place, Uppingham, LE15 9QH Tel: 01572 822715 Ellique, 55 South Street, Oakham Tel: 01572 723950 Naomi Nails and Beauty, 14-16 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, LE16 9BP, Tel: 01858 657001, www.naominailsbeauty.co.uk Moko Hair and Spa, 2 Church Street, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 432525, www.mokohair.co.uk Barnsdale Spa, Oakham, Rutland, Tel: 01572771313, www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk Day Lewis Pharmacy, 21 High Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 722083

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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SPRING IS HERE! Why not brighten up your look this spring.

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Whatever your wants our experienced team can help you look fabulous.

To book your appointment telephone:

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Something to smile about Dread going to the dentist? Stamford’s Saima Rennie dispels all such fears with a clear dedication to client care and commitment to her own Continuing Professional Development

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orn in Glasgow and raised in Edinburgh, Saima Rennie comes from a large, careerminded family - among her siblings there are lawyers, dentists, accountants, a teacher, pharmacist, oncology consultant and an MSP. “Being the child of immigrants – my father was a tailor and my mother joined him in Glasgow in 1969; she went from having two factory jobs to running her own post office/ shop – it was expected of my siblings and I to do better for ourselves,” she explains.

“My parents and my guidance teacher, the former Scottish Green Party Leader and first UK Green Party parliamentarian, Robin Harper, wanted me to do medicine. To their disappointment I chose dentistry – it took my mother years to get over my decision, she was so nervous of dentists!”

Saima combined her studies at Glasgow University with working every weekend and holiday in her parents’ business. Despite being offered a Masters place to study Endodontics (root canal treatments) and then Orthodontics, she chose General Practice and started her first job in Sleaford just three days after graduating in 1998. A move to St Neots and locum work back in Scotland followed, before a return to Sleaford in 2002. It was while working there secondtime-round that Saima visited Stamford on a day out, eventually buying a house here in 2004. Since then she’s invested heavily in more training. “In 2007 I gained a Certificate in Cosmetic and Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry with Advanced Dental Seminars, a Postgraduate Certificate in Contemporary Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry with Professor Dominic Hassall , a Certificate in Implantology with Nobel Biocare and most recently I completed a six-part Periodontal Disease Diagnosis and Management course with the President of the British Society of Periodontology, Phil Ower,” she explains.

After eight years of practice in Peterborough Saima had just started working in Oundle last October when a position closer to home, with Raymond Richardson and Paul Williams at the St Mary’s Street Dental Practice, came up. “I absolutely love it here, Raymond and Paul are just great guys to work with,” she enthuses.

Saima adores the variety of work that general dental practice offers. She says: “I love dentistry and I’m passionate about my profession. There’s the satisfaction of creating and maintaining beautiful smiles, interacting with patients and being able to practice a skill that I love daily. Dentists

are becoming one of the few healthcare professionals where clients see the same face every time they visit, which is invaluable for building a trusting relationship.”

Constant advances in science and technology mean all dentists are expected to keep extending their knowledge, with an average of 50 hours a year of Continuing Professional Development the industry norm.

“It’s amazing the developments and progress in dentistry over the last 18 years alone,” Saima says. “We’ve gone from looking at the mouth, to the head and neck, to now the bigger picture. We are asked to do a general health screen as that has a huge impact on oral health. The ‘sugar tax’ on fizzy drinks is an important first step – not only does sugar cause tooth decay, but it has such damaging effects on the entire body.

Diabetes type II is making headlines and although we are restoring and keeping teeth for longer and then implanting if necessary, the inflammatory effects of sugar are contributing to the failure of the supporting structures of our teeth. With this and the rise of childhood caries and tooth loss, educating parents and taking the time to discuss their concerns is vitally important.

“And who would have thought 15 years ago that you could have a tooth bank, where a child’s deciduous and wisdom teeth are stored so that, if something serious should happen to them later, stem calls can be harvested?”

So what’s ‘the next big thing’ in her profession? Saima says: “We are trying to save natural teeth more than ever, rather than opting for implants straight away; the

10-year implant survival rates are a lot less than the 98 per cent that is quoted for five years. Having completed the first level in implant training I can tell whether a client is suitable, and explain the personalised pros and cons.

“If you want the perfect smile, why not?

We not only offer Smile Makeovers with crowns, veneers and onlays in the latest in very strong pressed ceramics, but we’re also very excited to be able to offer Invisalign – an orthodontic alternative that uses clear retainers with ‘smart force’ technology to move teeth. It has the power of tilting, rotating and bodily moving teeth into alignment, with the beauty of being nearly invisible. It is a worldwide system that has been around since 1998 and I’m now an accredited Invisalign Provider.”

St Mary’s Street Dental Practice is at 34a St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DS Tel: 01780 755005.

A full range of treatment is offered privately for adult patients, either under the Denplan Care or Essentials scheme or independently on a ‘pay-as-you-go’ basis, and private treatment is also offered for children, as well as a Denplan Children’s scheme for more one-to-one care. www.st-marys-dental.co.uk

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e

HE AL T H & B E A U TY

Tried & Tested

Claudia Bayley kicks off a new occasional series where we put a health treatment through its paces

T

procedure you will receive a free 15 minute consultation and topical anaesthetic patch test.

The procedure takes a maximum of two hours on the day. Aga starts with applying a topical anaesthetic in order to minimise discomfort and allows 20 minutes to complete the consultation.

The next step is designing, measuring and drawing the shape of the brows. Aga is very thorough in this process and works with the What is Microblading? client to ensure complete satisfaction before Microblading is a manual form of Permanent the microblading procedure takes place.

Make-Up, a revolutionary Eyebrow Treatment Time is spent blending the pigments together designed to achieve a hyper realistic hair in order to create the perfect colour. The actual stroke brow and complete brow reconstruction.

Microblading procedure takes Lasting from 12-18 months, 45 minutes and is carried out microblading is great for according to UK health and both female and male clients safety regulations in this fully who want to achieve natural licensed and insured salon. looking, perfectly shaped Minimal discomfort is felt and brows. It is suitable for anyone there is little redness and no looking for a definition to their BEFORE swelling...this is a procedure eyebrows, fill in gaps or even that could be done in your reconstruct the entire brow. lunch break!

The end result is so natural The total cost of this no-one will ever know this Hair treatment is £350, including is not real. the recommended 5 week Aga ensures that the top-up. hypoallergenic pigments are AFTER Aga offers an affordable blended for every individual Claire Stuart was kind enough split payment option and client to complement their students receive 20% off. skin and hair tone, aiming for to allow us to take pictures of the procedure. Claire is Microblading procedures are the most natural results. absolutely thrilled with the carried out according to UK transformation and loves her health and safety regulations Microblading Procedure New Brows!! in fully licensed and insured At least 48 hours before the UCKED away down Silver Lane, you will find Beautica. Owned by Permanent Make-up artist Agnieska Sobierajska, the salon offers a wide range of beauty treatments including the latest trend in permanent brow techniques, Microblading. In October 2015 Aga was awarded second place in the Microblading category of a National PMU championship.

Beautica’s premises with highly trained and skilled PMU artist Follow: Beautica Stamford & Microblading Stamford Peterborough on Facebook to check their online portfolio and clients reviews.

• For more information and a free private consultation please call Beautica on 01780 759086, 1 Silver Lane, Stamford

Beautiful Nails All nail technicians at Beautica are trained to Master level and have many years of experience between them, enabling them to offer luxury nail enhancements to an extremely high standard. The traditional salon experience, combined with the use of machines for efficiency and precision, allow for long lasting nail results. Clients agree that their nails remain strong and shiny all the way up to their next appointment and, more importantly, their natural nail remains healthy underneath because of the excellent primer and prep technique.

Repairs are free since it is extremely unlikely that these will be necessary.

Mudhoney Beauty Russian volume lashes are a new softer, lighter, non-damaging type of lash extension on the beauty market.

Lots of women who have had the option to swap are trying the switch from ‘classic lashes’; a method that took off after the ‘cluster lash’, to the new Russian volume lash.

There is no irritation with Russian lashes. They don’t twist, turn or hang heavy. They are weightless. They are fluffy. They are beautiful.

Depending on how thick you want to go, you can pick between 2D right through to 7D. 2D being the most natural,. 4D is proving to be very popular at the moment, a little in between the two. Length is also an option, you can have a lash as short or as long as you like.

Lashes last 4-5 weeks before you need infills, but in total, 6-7 weeks before they fall off naturally with your own eyelash.

Prices vary between £45-£80 and infills vary between £30-£55.

Russian lashes take between 75 minutes and two hours to do and are available at Mudhoney Beauty in Stamford with Silke, above the Loft Hair Boutique in St Paul’s St. • You can contact Silke today to book yours in on: 07970 533743 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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COME RACING AT

Follow us on

Dingley UNDER 16’s

FREE ENTRY! Enjoy a picnic with friends and family in an idyllic setting, whilst watching good racing

Licensed betting Children’s Funfair Trade stands Bar and refreshments Close-up viewing

May Bank Holiday Sunday 3rd May Saturday 14th May Spring Bank Holiday Saturday 16th May First race starts 2pm First race at at 2pm

Admission: £10 per person / Under 16’s free entry Race cards available for £3 D I N G L E Y, M A R K E T H A R B O R O U G H L E 1 6 8 PJ w w w. d i n g l e y r a c e s . c o. u k

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DI ARY DAT E S

WHAT’S ON Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month Monday 2 May, from 2pm EVENT: Fundraising May Fayre In support of Medbourne Pre-school, with lots of stalls, a bouncy castle, live music, pocket-money games, a raffle, plant sale and teas with home-made cakes.

For further information Tel: 01536 770421 Medbourne Village Hall Thursday 5 May, 2.30pm EVENT: Shakespeare On Tour To commemorate 400 years since Shakespeare’s death, Nottingham Shakespeare Society will present excerpts comical, historical and tragic, featuring short extracts from everyone’s favourite plays such as ‘Romeo and Juliet’, ‘As You Like It’ and ‘Macbeth’.

Oakham Library Tickets £2 including refreshments Tel: 01572 722918.

Friday 6 May, film starts at 7.30pm EVENT: Lyddington Film Night This month’s film is The Lady in the Van – the story of Alan Bennett, the acclaimed author and playwright, who forms an unexpected bond with a transient woman living in her car that is parked in his driveway. Starring Dame Maggie Smith.

Everyone welcome.

Lyddington Village Hall Tickets are £5 on the door.

Snacks/water available to buy but please feel free to bring your own wine/beer.

Saturday 7 May, 10am to 1pm and Saturday 14

May 10am to 4pm CRAFT WORKSHOPS: Fused Glass Coaster and Wet Felting (respectively) With materials at both workshops provided, learn the technique of cutting sheet glass by hand before layering up with decorative elements or create a piece of textile art using Merino Wool.

Both workshops will be led by experts, great fun and perfect for beginners. Itch Gallery Fused Glass £38 per person, Felting £50 per person. Call in at the gallery to book or for more details, Tel: 01572 755333 or www.itchgallery.co.uk Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May EVENT: Exhibitions by Harborough Artists Cluster Members of the Harborough Artists Cluster will be holding Open Studios and exhibitions for members of the public to see their work. There will be a chance to follow an art trail, picking either a specific type of art or a particular area of the town and surrounding villages. Look out for event booklets listing all those taking part so you can choose which studios to visit on which day.

Further information at www.harboroughartists. co.uk Saturday 14 May, 2pm EVENT: Lyddington Fete A wonderful traditional fete including regular favourites such as bric a

Thursday 12 May, 7.30pm for 8pm EVENT: Cookery Demonstration Local Chef Liz Moore will be demonstrating several recipes and sharing hints and tips from her twenty years working as a professional Chef. Tickets £10 (includes a glass of wine or soft drink) from Louise Jessop Tel: 01858 565993 - Ashley Village Hall

Sunday 15 May, 10am to 3.30pm EVENT: What’s It Worth?

Specialists from the Cheffins valuation and auction house will offer expert opinion and valuation on your treasures. Fine art, porcelain, jewellery, clocks, watches, furniture and much more will be assessed.

Valuations £5 for the first item and £2 per subsequent item up to a maximum of five pieces.

Corby Holiday Inn Proceeds to the Corby Urgent Care Centre for equipment funding.

brac, bottle, plant, cake and toy stalls, Gretton Silver Band, a Pimms bar and afternoon teas as well as vintage vehicles and a Lancaster Bomber flypast (weather permitting).

Proceeds to church restoration and village projects Lyddington Village Green

holding a coffee morning incorporating a plant sale, tombola and raffle.

Great Easton Village Hall

Entrance £2 including coffee and homemade cake

Sunday 15 May, 10am to 12.15pm EVENT: Meditation Retreat Buddhist nun Gen Nyingpo will guide a half day meditation retreat to help participants combat stress, anxiety and related health issues Birdwatching Centre, Egleton £15 per person including parking and refreshments Booking is necessary at www. meditatinpeterborough. org.uk Thursday 19 May, from 11am EVENT: Coffee Morning Great Easton and District Garden Society will be

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DI ARY DAT E S

WHAT’S ON Friday 20 to Sunday 22 May EVENT: Rockingham International Horse Trials Set in the beautiful Great Park overlooking the Welland Valley, the course designed by Philip Herbert, has been enhanced to create an even more varied and exciting course for eventers and spectators alike.

A cross country course of the highest standard, dressage, show jumping, entertainment for children, animals, falconry, fun dog show as well as a selection of trade stands, a bar and catering.

Rockingham Castle Gate prices per car: Friday £10, Saturday and Sunday £15. Weekend ticket (3 days) £30 per adult.

Children under 16 years are admitted free. No additional parking charge. www. rockinghamcastlehorsetrials. com Saturday 21 May, 9am to 1pm (and the third Saturday of each month) CHARITY EVENT: Craft and Gift Fayre With proceeds to the Sick Children’s Trust, lots of different stalls selling a variety of crafts and gifts, with many local, independent traders as well as free craft activity for children, homemade cakes and refreshments. Congregational Church, Oakham High Street Admission is free For booking and more information call Michelle on 07740 412287.

Saturday 21 May, 7.30pm MUSIC: 4 Girls, 4 Harps By popular demand, Eleanor Turner, Harriett Adie, Keziah Thomas and Elizabeth Scorah will perform a varied and lively programme during their third visit on behalf of Music in Lyddington.

St Andrew’s Church, Lyddington Tickets in advance £16 (£3 for students) at Everlasting Now in Oakham or Uppingham Sports & Books. More information at www. musicinlyddington.co.uk Wednesday 25 May, 7.30pm TALK: Windmills and Watermills of Leicestershire and Rutland Great Easton & District Local History Society will be welcoming Dr Susan Tebby as guest speaker this month.

Great Easton Village Hall £2 for visitors

BOOK EARLY FOR….

Sunday 5 June, 6.15pm for 7pm EVENT: Music in Ashley – Coro Stellante Coro Stellante will perform an eclectic selection of ‘Music for a Summer Evening in a performance recently reviewed as “sublime, spine-tingling and full of skill and panache.”

Ticket price includes the first glass of wine or soft drinks and canapés. St Mary the Virgin Church, Ashley Tickets £15 (under 16s free) Tel: 01858 565294

Saturday 21 May, from 7pm EVENT: Comedy Evening A fantastic evening of laughter brought to you by four professional comedians. Full bar and food available to purchase.

Greetham Community Centre Tickets £10 per person from The Plough, The Wheatsheaf or the Village Shop

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BOOK EARLY FOR….

Sunday 5 June, from 8am EVENT: Rutland Agricultural Society’s 184th Annual County Show Once again Rutland can expect their county show to offer all the best elements of rural living spiced up with some breath taking arena displays. Held at the new, purpose built showground at Barleythorpe, near Oakham the show is an essential family day out offering first class value for money. The packed agenda includes hands-on wildlife interactions, arts and crafts, fabulous food and farming produce, trade and agricultural stands, a licensed bar and refreshment tents, livestock showing classes, show jumping and a display of vintage and classic cars and farm machinery.

Booking and all information at www.rutlandcountyshow.co.uk Saturday 11 June, from 5.30pm, concert starts at 7.30pm EVENT: Music In The Park This highly popular annual charity concert is a great night out for all ages and raises money for LOROS and Leicester Charity Link. .

Bring your own picnic and enjoy a wonderful evening listening to music by local covers band ‘Double Yellers’ and the award winning ‘Hathern Brass Band’.

The evening finishes with a fabulous fireworks display (10pm).

Wistow Hall.

Tickets in advance are £15 Adult and £5 (10-16 years), under 10 years free Tel: 0116 231 8431 www. wistow.com or collect in person from any Loros Shop, Glebe Garden Centre or Baileys at Wistow Rural Centre.

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Dido & Aeneas Uppingham School presents Henry Purcell’s

Artistic Director Catherine Griffiths Musical Director Stephen Williams Stage Director John Rowe

There will be an extended interval.

You are welcome to bring along a picnic to enjoy with a complimentary glass of Prosecco in the beautifully landscaped Western Quad

28 & 29 June 2016 Uppingham Theatre 7pm Tickets: £15/£12.50 01572 820 820 www.wegottickets.co.uk or Uppingham Sports and Books 39

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Seeking job satisfaction and making life work

Are you at a career junction or finding securing work tricky?

Do you need a change to rediscover your zest for work?

Are you starting out, a student or graduate or returning to work after a break?

Are you seeking “better” work with improved working relationships?

Contact Career Junction UK. Approachable and helpful, we offer you support in your career at competitive rates Full Information on our website: www.careerjunctionuk.co.uk or email: info@careerjunctionuk.co.uk.

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EA T I NG O UT

The Courtyard at Rutland Water Golf Course

Abigail Richardson and Janie Johnson-Crossfield were treated to lunch at The Courtyard

I

HAD never been to eat at Rutland Water Golf Course but I will undoubtedly be going again. Serving seven days a week, there is certainly a very warm welcome awaiting you at this eatery – golfers and nongolfers alike. All the food is homemade and locally sourced. The menu is fairly extensive and consists of breakfast items, light lunches, freshly made salads and sandwiches, toasties and paninis as well as scones and cakes. Sunday roasts are served from 12-3pm but booking is advised.

I had the ‘Classic Warm Chicken Caesar Salad with crispy bacon, lettuce, fresh anchovies, croutons and fresh Parmesan shavings’ (£8.95) and it was the best Caesar salad I have ever had in Rutland. The chicken was sumptuous and moist, the croutons huge and buttery, the dressing indulgently creamy along with

very generous helpings of beautifully cooked bacon and picante parmesan. (I didn’t have the anchovies – sacrilege I hear you say). I was meaning to go for a healthy option –but as Janie reprimanded, I can diet at home.

Janie chose the ‘Steak Ciabatta with the wholegrain mustard mayonnaise, caramelised onions, rocket, chunky chips, beer battered onion rings’ (£10.95). She said it was ‘very good indeed’. The steak was cooked to her liking: medium rare and the bread was fresh and the chips and rings truly delicious.

We did have a little wait but that’s because it was very busy and it gave us time to enjoy the views. We were seated next to a group of delightful, young school boys who had enjoyed a round of golf together and were feasting on the most magnificent looking burgers and bacon and sausage sandwiches. The place had

a wonderful home-from-home feel but with clear expectations for dress and behavior.

We had gone predominantly to see the private room facilities, which were very impressive with a banqueting hall that seats 50 above the restaurant and opposite is a charming barn for up to 180 guests for larger parties and weddings. The outdoor Courtyard itself, a delightful place to eat, also hosts a pizza oven and BBQ facilities for a more informal gathering. Leaving party potential me thinks!

Front of house is Matthew Williamson and manager Gemma Wood, who are charming and friendly and can provide for your every need – be it lunch for two, a business meeting, an informal party in the courtyard through to a grand wedding reception.

Currently in progress are residential facilities with eight en-suite bedrooms and a honeymoon suite being built in an old on site barn conversion, which should be ready for June. Also look out for Thursday evening events to include pizza nights, fish and chip suppers et al.

• Contact: Rutland Water Golf Course, Lodge Farm, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8HB, Tel: 01572 737525. While you are there, don’t forget to pick up your locally farm grown strawberries and asparagus.

UPDAT ES

Helping with the Pursuit of Career Happiness

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HETHER you’re starting out on the career ladder or looking for a mid-life change of direction, Niki Tolhurst, Careers Director at Career Junction UK, is passionate about the positive role that discussion plays in making the right choice. Based in Peterborough and operating over an area that includes Huntingdon, Stamford, Oakham, Grantham, Northampton, Corby and Cambridge, the company focuses on the personal delivery of career guidance, counselling, education and coaching.

Niki, a University of Durham graduate, has worked in key roles for blue chip organisations and is fully qualified in careers education, information, advice and guidance, holding the well-recognised Qualification in Careers Guidance (QCG) backed by the Careers Development Institute (CDI). She has worked in both private and voluntary sectors and

has experience in training, recruitment and selection.

She says: “Individuals who might benefit most from our type of personal careers service fall into two camps. Firstly, young people who have not yet found satisfying work that fulfils their potential and need an independent, supportive careers guide to help them move towards their goals.

Secondly, adults who feel they need a change of work that offers a different perspective – more meaningful and either more or less challenging perhaps, and fitting in with their current circumstances and aims. This could be a person returning to the job market after a break with family – many find they’re unsure of their skills, or how best to balance work and home-life.”

• For further information and advice or to set up an appointment logon to: www.careerjunctionuk.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS HELP!

with design problems, hot, dry or shady places, screening issues or just with that idea

You need somebody?

01780 481624

Call James on 01780 752119 info@marramgardens.co.uk www.marramgardens.co.uk

www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

Garden Design & Construction

Gretton Garden Services Reliable landscape gardener located in the Gretton area and offering a range of gardening services including: • Grass Cutting • Hedge Cutting • Fencing • Decking • Patios

• Driveways • Turfing • Weed Spraying • Scarification • Pressure Washing

Call Chris Stubbs to see how his practical knowledge can turn your dreams into reality

Mob. 07976 286664/Home. 01536 772434 email chrisstubbs57@hotmail.com

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SHOP S & SE R V I C E S

UPDATES

Tickets are now available online: www.rutlandcountyshow.com.

Early Birds Tickets now on sale for 184th Rutland Show T

he 184th Rutland County Show takes place on Sunday 5th June and tickets are now available online offering Early Bird discounts of 20%, plus children 14 years and under go free.

There’s so much to see and enjoy at this years’ show with fabulous Main Ring attractions throughout the day, including a fast and furious Scurry Driving Competition, Sheep dog trials and Birds of Prey, culminating with the magnificent Grand Parade of Livestock Champions.

With rural exhibitions and demonstrations running throughout the day, this year we are pleased to welcome Leicester Poultry Group alongside the traditional cattle, sheep, goats and equestrian classes.

Sample delicious artisan food and drink in ‘The Larder’ food court and watch creative chefs in the Pavilion workshops. Back by popular demand is the Tractor Pulling event and the ‘edutaining’ Sheep Show - this year featuring the entertaining dog and duck display. Browse over 100 unique trade stands and craft stalls, watch

the farrier competition run by Leicestershire’s Stephen Hill, try your hand at Petanque with a professional coach offering free advice and enjoy the vintage vehicle displays.

It’s a great family day out celebrating rural Rutland. Free Parking and Free Shuttle buses on the day from Oakham and Uppingham.

• Early Bird tickets are £10 for adults and £8 for concessions. To book your tickets and for more information about this year’s show visit www.rutlandcountyshow.com. Come and find us there!

Garden Design E

lspeth Stockwell Garden Design Ltd. designs gardens across Rutland, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire since 2009 and have been awarded Royal Horticultural Society Gold, Silver Gilt and Best in Category medals for show gardens in recent years. Says Elspeth, “We specialise in designing gardens which are sensitive to the architectural characteristics of the home and its context, often designing gardens in conservation areas.

We have worked hard over the years to develop a network of the best landscapers, suppliers and nurseries in order that we can bring together a professional and dedicated team of people to build and plant your garden. Whether your garden is a tiny courtyard or a large country estate, it’s important to us that you have a garden that you will love for years to come. Garden builds are a significant investment and it is therefore essential that our gardens stand the test of time in terms of look, durability and function.”

Full design service includes: survey, advice on planning permission, tree works and building regulations, project monitoring, soft landscaping service, replanting service for existing gardens.

• Contact Elspeth on Email: info@elspethstockwell. co.uk, Tel: 0752 3055851, www.elspethstockwell.co.uk

Discover the hidden beauties of Rutland’s landscape T

here are a magnificent variety of gardens open to visitors beginning this month and running until September as part of the National Gardens Scheme which raises money for nursing and caring charities each summer.

Visiting a Rutland garden reveals the breathtaking variety of our county and provides a great day or afternoon out in glorious villages for all ages. Why not plan a walk or cycle to a garden and enjoy refreshments and hospitality in a beautiful garden or village setting?

From village openings such as Wing to larger gardens such as The Old Hall in Market Overton or Orchard House in Hambleton, plus exciting new participants like Redhill Lodge in Barrowden, you will find gardens to inform, inspire and delight. Every cup of tea you drink or plant that you buy will make a real difference to the life of someone who needs care and support as every 80p in the pound goes directly to the charity.

• Admission ranges from £3.50 to £5 with children free. You can find full details of locations and more information at www.ngs.org.uk then click on the Leicestershire and Rutland page.

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SHOP S & SE R V I C E S

UPDATES Canadian Rocker Bryan Adams Announces Show in Peterborough B

ryan Adams will perform outdoors at The Embankment, Peterborough on Friday 5 August 2016, as part of his Get Up Tour of the UK and is one of a number of outdoor shows the Canadian rocker will perform in the UK in 2016.

Bryan Adams released his latest studio album Get Up in October to much acclaim.

It was produced by famed ELO frontman Jeff Lynne and features nine new songs and four acoustic versions, highlighting Adams’ unique voice and depth.

Tickets are priced from £49 and are available to buy online at www.ticketline.co.uk or Tel: 0844 888 9991.

We’ve teamed up with LCC Live to give one lucky reader the chance to see Bryan Adams play live in Peterborough, when he comes to the UK as part of his ‘Get Up’ Tour.

We’ve one pair of tickets to give away for

his show at The Embankment, Peterborough on Friday 5 August.

The legendary Canadian rocker will take to the stage under the night sky to perform tracks from his latest album, Get Up, as well as some of his greatest hits.

To be in with a chance of winning the pair of tickets, simply answer the following question: Bryan Adams is touring the UK in 2016, but what is the name of his UK Tour?

1. Wake Up

WIN TICKETS TO SEE BRYAN ADAMS LIVE IN PETERBOROUGH

Keep your Lawnmower in Top Condition Throughout the Season

W

ith the grass cutting season now beginning, it’s important to take care of your mower. Here are some top tips to ensure a problem-free summer of mowing. The team from Ben Burgess advise…

Before cutting: Fill the mower with fresh fuel as any left in the tank through winter storage may have degraded, making it hard to start the engine.

Check your lawn for branches, twigs, stones and pet’s toys to avoid any damage to your mower’s blades.

Replace the air filter if it has not been changed over winter. A clean air filter prevents dirt, dust and debris from getting into the engine.

Brush away dry grass from the exhaust area and from the air filter before starting the engine.

After cutting: Wash your mower down, especially after cutting damp grass, as excess wet grass under the deck can be corrosive and cause rust. Do not use a pressure washer as this may cause damage to seals. Always allow the machine to dry before storing away.

Regular maintenance is essential to maximise the life of your equipment. Changing oil costs less than £6 for an average engine, therefore it’s well worth the minimal investment.

Keep your cutting blades sharp at all times. Damaged or blunt blades can cause an uneven grass cut and vibration, making your lawn appear tired and worn.

Once the season is over, turn in your machine for a service for a thorough check and some professional care.

• Contact: Ben Burgess GroundsCare Equipment, Eldernell Lane, Coates, Peterborough, PE7 2DD, Tel: 01733 840777, www.benburgess.co.uk

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2. Get Up

3. Get Down

• To enter, send the correct answer plus your name, address and mobile phone number to: localliving@btinternet.com. All entries to be received by May 31st 2016 latest. This information will not be given to third parties.

The Ashley Farm Shop Artisan Food and Craft Fair T

he Ashley Farm Shop Artisan Food and Craft Fair is being held on 21st May where the farm will showcase their own goods as well as many other local food and craft producers.

Ashely Farm breeds their own lambs and cattle are bought as ‘store’ and fattened and finished on their land. Also on sale in the farm shop are pork, chicken and game products all sourced from responsible and reliable outlets and suppliers. All meat is prepared on site into a range of other delicious products such as sausages, burgers, pork pies, pastry topped meat pies, cottage and shepherds pies, pasties and sausage rolls.

Mother and daughter Sue and Gill are at the helm and are front of house and they make the delicious cakes on sale in store. Butcher Rob is a master at his craft and has been with the farm for two years; he recently received an award for his ‘excellent Pastrami’.

Ashley Farm was also nominated last year in a regional competition for ‘Best Farm Shop’.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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Traditional Restoration Timber Renovation Specialists Old sash & casement windows, exterior doors & joinery

Visit Ben Burgess Coates for a full range of grounds care equipment including lawn mowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers & gardening supplies

Window Repair

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement.

• Repairs and renovations • Overhaul and draught proofing • Reglazing and reputtying • Converting single glazing to double glazing Call James on:

Before

After

Before

After

Exterior joinery repair

01572 720524 or 07841 527855 tradrest@hotmail.co.uk

www.traditional-restoration.co.uk @tradrest

THE GUILD OF MASTER CHIMNEY SWEEPS Powering chimney sweeping into the 21st Century

AVONDALE SWEEPS • NO FUSS – NO MESS

• FULLY RECOGNISED CERTIFICATES ISSUED • FULLY TRAINED & QUALIFIED TO A HIGH STANDARD • HETAS REGISTERED

Open 7.30am - 5.30pm Mon-Fri, 8am - 12.30pm Sat Eldernell Lane, Coates, Peterborough PE7 2DD 01733 840777 | www.benburgess.co.uk

RUSSELL PEACE…01536 510865 MOBILE – 07725 795394 EMAIL– russell.peace@virgin.net www.chimneysweepnorthants.co.uk

www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk

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The Lady Rothschild Dairy

T

Family Fun Day Sunday 22nd May, 11am-3pm Nene Outdoors, Lakeside Centre, Ferry Meadows

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O U T D O O R L IV ING

Plant Up for Summer… the Med Way Summer’s balmy days may seem a while ahead, but some well-chosen plants and accessories will set the scene for a summer of al fresco fun

T

IM and Jackie Thackeray lived and travelled throughout Western Europe for several years before settling back in the UK and setting up a business that would embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle they’d come to love so much.

Seven years on that business, The Olive Grove, offers what they believe to be the UK’s largest selection of architectural specimen plants – palms, olive trees, yuccas and agave – alongside a fine collection of home furnishings, accessories and gifts.

Together with a delicious range of Mediterranean-influenced foods, coffees and gelateria-style ice creams to enjoy on-site – the Olive Branch bistro has recently been refurbished – or to take home, the Polebrook business has become one of the area’s leading retail and dining destinations.

When Tim and Jackie purchased the sixacre site in 2009 it was little more than fields and a couple of buildings.

“Our decision to develop the nursery was born from a desire to create a lifestyle business that would allow us to work, live and meet customers in a relaxed and pleasant environment,” they explain.

“The idea to specialise in olive trees, palm trees and Mediterranean plants came from living and travelling throughout Western Europe for several years – on our return to England we experienced great difficulties in sourcing similar plants for our own patio

garden, and so decided to create our niche business.”

Tim and Jackie have gone ‘all-out’ with the nursery this year, travelling abroad to handselect an impressive selection of plants which will add architectural interest to any garden design. As those special imports arrived by the lorry-load last month, we asked them to select four of their favourites…

TRACHYCARPUS A single-stemmed palm with large fan-shaped dark green leaves. Small yellow flowers emerge close to the leaf bases in early summer. One of the hardiest palms in Britain, trachycarpus can cope with temperatures as low as -15c.

Conditions best to keep these: Sunlight – full sun, partial shade; aspect – south- west- or east-facing; exposure – sheltered.

Moisture – well-drained.

Soil – sand, chalk, loam. pH – acid, alkaline, neutral.

OLIVES The olive tree (top right) is quintessentially Mediterranean and has become the plant you would associate most with warm and sunny climates. It is perhaps surprising that the olive tree is an adaptable and hardy plant suitable for growing in a wide range of climates, including the UK.

Conditions best to keep these: Sunlight – full sun; aspect – south-facing; exposure: sheltered.

Moisture – well-drained.

Soil – sand, chalk, loam. pH – acid, alkaline, neutral.

CORDYLINES Erect palm-like tree with arching, narrow light green leaves. Mature trees bear tiny white flowers followed by blue or blue-tinted berries.

Conditions best to keep these: Sunlight – full sun, partial shade; aspect – south- or east-facing; exposure – sheltered.

Moisture – well-drained, moist but welldrained.

Soil – sand, clay, chalk, loam. pH – acid, alkaline, neutral.

PHORMIUMS The tallest variety of phormiums with swordshaped, lime-coloured leaves margined cream, producing tubular orange to red flowers.

Conditions best to keep these: Sunlight – full sun; aspect any; exposure – sheltered or exposed.

Moisture – well-drained, moist but welldrained.

Soil – loam, sand. pH – acid, neutral, Alkaline.

• The Olive Grove, Oundle Road, Polebrook PE8 5LQ. 01832 275660; www.olivegrovenurseries.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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

HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS What’s new in Market Harborough?

Cricket Coaching T

om Flowers Cricket Coaching was set up to bring high quality coaching to areas in Leicestershire and Rutland, particularly servicing East Leicestershire, including the Market Harborough, Uppingham, Oakham and Stamford areas.

Says Tom, “We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver smaller specialised group work to players, aiming to provide increased quality contact time between the player and coach. Our overall aim is to improve the standard of local cricket coaching around the county in line with our company ethos: ‘Maximising potential through hard work, simplicity and enjoyment’. We provide bespoke all year round services from 1:1 sessions, small specialist groups, weekly club coaching, session plans, club-satellite school links, coaches training, winter academy programmes, and our ever popular Summer Cricket Camps at various venues around the county.”

Tom, who is level 3 coach with ex first class playing experience with Loughborough University and LCCC, combines his coaching roles with working for the ECB Disability squad, where he is assistant National coach. TFCC have worked for Leicestershire CCC, Uppingham School, Oakham School and Tom was Head of Cricket at Sherborne School,

Dorset for 5 years. Tom, along with his team, will deliver high quality cricket programmes within your club.

Their most popular services include 1:1 sessions, school holiday cricket camps, professional master class sessions, club practise nights, specialist group sessions and coaches training & cricket club consultancy.

The successful summer camp model has been running for 7 years now with currently 8 clubs signed up to the summer camp programme throughout 2016. Tom’s team of specialist coaches will come in and plan, deliver, administrate and organise the three day course, leaving the club has minimal hassle. Courses have been welcomed by many as they have proven to boost both finances and club membership numbers, whilst giving clubs chance to make vital funds mid-season.

• Visit: www.tomflowerscricketcoaching.com or call Tom on Tel: 07815647892 directly for enquires.

Hallaton in the Great War T

o commemorate the Great War, a small group in Hallaton decided to write the biographies of the men and women connected to the village who served in that conflict. They were surprised to discover that the total was an amazing 211 people.

Understandably, fighting on the Western Front predominates in the minds of most, and tends to feature most strongly in exhibitions as it was the place where the majority of British men and women fought; it was also close to home and it was the only place in which the war could be won. But there were equal brutalities of war in unexpected places elsewhere and these are depicted in this exhibition. The exhibition explores the travesties that occurred in the deserts of the Middle East, the snowy vastness of Russia as well as the forgotten army in Salonika - Hallaton men served in them all. The large story boards give an insight into the experiences of ordinary men and women in extraordinary situations.

For those wishing to delve deeper, there are also folders which expand on each subject.

• The Museum is located in Churchgate, Hallaton, Market Harborough LE16 8TY. Opening times are Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays from 2.30pm to 5.00pm from April 30th until October 2nd 2016.

Entry free but donations are appreciated.

“BROTHERS IN ARMS “ FRED FARMED AND WAS BORNE IN HALLATON JUNE 1894 AND DIED 26TH DECEMBER 1991. HIS BROTHER DICK WAS KILLED IN ACTION 23RD SEPTEMBER 1915

Loomes Championship announced for Rockingham Horse Trials

T

he cream of eventing gather on the 20th and 22nd May for Rockingham International Horse Trials. Event timekeepers Loomes & Co will award one of their handmade British wristwatches to the rider who comes closest to the optimum time over the cross country course. The Championship is deliberately designed to reward the most experienced professional event riders. The 2014 winner, Irish international Austin O’Connor, wears his watch for show jumping. The winner in 2015 was Sir Mark “I couldn’t be more delighted” Todd, who maintains that the Loomes watch is his most valuable prize in forty years of competing.

Entries are preparing for this year’s Championship, set in the fairytale grounds of Rockingham Castle. Loomes & Co are a very traditional firm of watchmakers based in Stamford, hand producing around a hundred watches a year, each one entirely manufactured in this country.

Managing Director Robina Hill said, “Rockingham is the perfect event for us to work with. Some of the best riders in the world are competing here with style, timing and precision. It is a stunning showcase for what we do in watchmaking”.

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L OC AL HI ST O R Y

Spectacular Makeover for Historic Rutland Gem Charlotte Widgery at front of Oakham Castle

Workmen restore court furniture in Great Hall at Oakham Castle

After a major eightmonth restoration project, Oakham Castle will reopen to the public this month. Nick Rennie visited the grand old building, which dates back to Norman times, to give us a sneak preview of the work

G

AZING at Oakham Castle and the neighbouring All Saints’ Church, it is difficult to fathom that you are looking at almost 1,000 years of history. The castle, the remnants of a motteand-bailey fortification built by the Normans in 1180, has been lovingly restored over the last eight months.

Modern adaptations have also been added to make the building accessible to the thousands of extra people expected to visit.

And it will reopen to the public later this month in spectacular fashion, with knights riding on horseback through the town as part of an exciting programme of family entertainment.

Charlotte Widgery, the castle’s activities manager, speaks with real passion about the £2.4 million restoration project, which has had grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Rutland County Council. “This building is the finest surviving example of domestic Norman architecture and the restoration work will make it financially sustainable,” she said. “Before it closed for the work, we had 31,000 visitors a year and we are looking to increase that to 46,000. It will now be a real community asset for the town. The building will still be used as a court and a wedding venue but there will be an opportunity to use it more for community events.”

Rear of Oakham Castle A central part of the scheme is to restore the curtain wall which bounds the site and which was built to fortify it. Originally there was a moat around the wall and a drawbridge. The structure has been weakened over hundreds of years by roots from the many trees which grew on top of it. These have now been removed and restorers are working to reveal the Norman wall. Wooden steps have been installed with a viewing gallery so visitors can climb up the wall and enjoy a panoramic view of the castle and its surrounds.

Parts of the original building are no longer there but the majestic Great Hall remains. It was built by Walkelin de Ferreres, the Lord of the Manor of Oakham in the time of King Henry II. Walking into the hall, you look up to see hundreds of ornate horseshoes covering the walls. They have been presented at the Castle for over five centuries by royalty and noblemen and women as part of an ancient custom for eminent visitors to Rutland – a tradition that continues to this day. Every horseshoe has been painstakingly taken down by a specialist team and then cleaned and recorded at Rutland County Museum before being re-hung. The earliest horseshoe was given in 1470 by King Edward IV. A replica is being made so visitors can have their picture taken with it. The most recent came from the Duchess of Cornwall in

2014.

A fascinating discovery was made as the horseshoes were being taken down – Charlotte explains, “The workmen noticed a raised lattice work design which dates from 1180 and is concurrent with the original building. This is really exciting because it is Norman decorative plasterwork, and it is unique in this country in terms of its size and condition.”

The hall has been used as a court since 1279 and the furniture has been restored as part of the project. The judge’s bench originally had a wood effect painted on it and this has now been revealed.

Prisoners have been remanded during their hearings in two cells since the 19th century.

One of these has been converted into an historical exhibit. Next to the main hall is the so-called ‘Number One Court’, a Victorian extension which is being renovated ready to house touchscreen interpretation features and displays.

The castle, which was closed to the public in October, will reopen on Monday May 30 with a free launch event from 11am to 4pm. Norman life will be recreated in the grounds, knights will parade on horseback and there will be a range of activities including a falconry display and a chance to try out archery. The castle will then be open to the public.

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OU T & AB OUT

West Lodge Rural Centre Winner of ‘What’s On 4 Junior Awards Best Family Day Out’ 2015, and through to the finals again this year, the much-loved West Lodge Rural Centre was opened by Ed Dee and his parents, Margaret and Tony, in 1995 and has steadily gained in popularity ever since. Isabella Hamnett chats to Ed’s wife Mo about just what makes this little slice of rural life such a gem for visitors old and young alike I understand that West Lodge Farm has been in your husband’s family for generations - what changes did you make in the first instance?

Ed’s family have been farming at West Lodge for 3 generations. When Ed finished university there was no work for him on the farm so he became a medical rep, travelling the country, visiting GP’s and selling pharmaceuticals. On one occasion he was sitting in traffic on the M25 and saw a combine harvester in the fields and realised that he really missed farming. It was then that he went back to his parents with the idea of opening the farm to the public.

What are your goals for the farm park?

Our goal for the farm park is to continue to share our enthusiasm for the countryside with everyone. We have acres of nature trails and beautiful walks and we do try and encourage our visitors to venture further than the immediate play areas and animal handling areas.

Although we are a Northamptonshire postcode we are only 10 minutes from Market Harborough and half an hour from Leicester, our aim is to reach more visitors from towns and cities and spread awareness about farming life.

You run an extremely successful nursery school onsite, when did this open and what was your vision for this?

I trained as a nursery nurse, I had always worked in special education but had dreamt of owning my own nursery one day. I was good friends with Ed at the time and he suggested setting up a nursery at West Lodge and continuing the ethos of sharing our enthusiasm for the countryside. That was back in 2003. We built a purpose built building. The idea was to provide outstanding childcare with opportunities for children they may not encounter in other nurseries. The outdoors plays a big part in our nursery day with all children having immediate access to secure, outdoor play areas and all children also visit the farm on a regular basis.

Many of our children have seen a lamb or a calf being born; they get to handle small animals and bottle feed the lambs.

The forest school stems from the Scandanavian approach to learning. It goes hand in hand with both the farm park and the nursery. It’s a child led approach to learning where children have small, achievable tasks, encouraging independent thinking and problem solving.

Most of what children learn these days is either from a text book or Google. It’s great to see children thinking for themselves; they can also take risks like climbing trees, using a pen knife and making fires in a supervised environment.

We run Forest School holiday clubs, we have school groups visit and our nursery children also visit twice a week.

Do you have any new plans for 2016/17 that you can share with us?

We have big plans for 2016/17. We are planning to extend our restaurant facilities, provide a lot more undercover play facilities utilising our farm yard buildings with an ‘outdoor theme’ and rearrange the whole entrance and car parking facilities. We hope to have most of this done by Easter 2017 Lastly, anything that you might particularly want to share with our readers?

We have a very active social media presence and you can be kept up to date with all our events and farm life through our facebook group, twitter @westlodgefarm and on our website www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk.

• Contact: West Lodge Rural Centre, Back Lane, Desborough, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN14 2SH, 01536 760552, info@westlodgefarmpark.co.uk

You now operate a forest school in the holiday periods. What was the inspiration behind this and what does it focus on?

54

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P EOP L E

Cricket ace enjoys a new lease of life at Stamford School Pupils at Stamford School are being taught how to play sport by one of England’s cricketing heroes. Dean Headley loves his new career and enjoys living in Stamford. Nick Rennie found out a little more about the man and his successful fundraising activities

M

OST of the children he teaches weren’t even born when Dean Headley was spectacularly taking a match-winning six Australian wickets in the cauldron of an Ashes match.

But 18 years later the 46-year-old former England cricketer feels privileged to be entrusted with helping shape the young lives of pupils at Stamford School. And Dean is making headlines once again by spearheading an annual community fun day at the school - the BGL Sport Bash - which raises tens of thousands of pounds for charity. He said: “I enjoy working in sport again and being given the chance to help in the development of young people. It’s great to see a student like Zak Chappell sign as a cricket professional for Leicestershire but there is also someone like Ben Penlington, who loves his cricket, who won’t be a world beater but who will continue to enjoy playing the sport. That’s as important to me as when students go on to make a career in sport.”

Dean has worked at the school for six years. He also teaches rugby and hockey in the autumn and winter terms and has just returned from taking a party of boys on a cricket tour to Sri Lanka.

BGL Sport Bash 2016

He is in the throes of organising the popular BGL Sport Bash, which this year is on Friday July 29 and which will once again feature a cricket match involving an England Masters XI against a team of top local players.

Among those who have already signed up to take part are Simon Jones and Geraint Jones, who won the Ashes with England as recently as 2005, and a Test contemporary of Dean’s from the late 1990s, Phil ‘Daffy’ DeFreitas.

For the first time this year, there will be circus skills workshops, a thrilling crystal fire show and caving and climbing experiences as part of the traditional family entertainment running alongside the cricket.

Proceeds will once more go to the Matt Hampson Foundation, the charity started by the paralysed former Leicester Tigers rugby player which supports young people seriously injured through sport.

It’s a cause which is particularly poignant at Stamford School because it helps pupils Seb Goold, who was badly injured in a road accident two years ago, and George Robinson, who sustained serious spinal injuries playing rugby last year.

Dean said: “The original idea was to organise a big community day around a cricket match.

We’re hoping for a crowd of more than 2,000 and it would be great if we could match the £40,000

we raised from it last year. The generosity of Stamford people is superb, with the auction prizes they give us and the donations. You realise what a fantastic community we live in here.”

Dean, who grew up in the West Midlands, carried on a remarkable family tradition when he won his first England Test cap in 1997. His father Ron and grandfather George were both former West Indies batsmen – only the second time in cricket history where there has been three Test players from the same family in a straight bloodline. Dean played for Middlesex and Kent and turned out for England between 1997 and 1999, taking eight wickets against Australia on his Old Trafford debut and a memorable 6-60 at Melbourne the following year. He doesn’t like to single out one career highlight.

But he is clearly proud of his achievements, such as taking five wickets on his county debut, becoming the first player to take three First Class hat-tricks in a year and performing so impressively in the Ashes. “They were all defining moments and the last one wouldn’t have happened if the others hadn’t happened before it,” added Dean, who lives with his wife and three children in Stamford.

A back injury unfortunately ended Dean’s career at just 29. He took up a career away from sport but the lure of returning to his first love was too much to resist when the Stamford job came up. He recalled: “Having to retire only hit me when I was 37 or 38. It was like being institutionalised as a cricketer back then, like being in the army. Suddenly it all ended and there was no support for me. But you are always taught in sport not to show any weakness so I blocked everything out when I finished.”

Dean added: “I would have been wealthier had I played in the modern era and I wouldn’t have been working here at the school after retiring. But then I wouldn’t have had this great opportunity to work with children and help develop their lives.”

• You can book tickets for the BGL Big Sport Bash on July 29 by going online to www.bglsportbash.co.uk and for details about VIP hospitality packages email info@dcrevents.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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20/04/2016 11:48

OU T & AB O UT

Riding for the Disabled As one of the first groups to form in the country, The Peterborough & District Riding for the Disabled Group marks 50 years of service in 2016. Deborah Pennell went along to find out a bit more about the group and how they are planning to celebrate their Golden Anniversary.

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ITH approximately 500 groups and more than 18,000 volunteers countrywide, Riding for the Disabled is a charity that annually helps more than 28,000 children and adults alike. Medical professions recognise that there are significant therapeutic benefits for the rider, helping those with both physical and learning disabilities.

RDA GIVES INDIVIDUALS THE OPPORTUNITY TO: • Reach therapeutic goals: improve muscle tone and core strength, develop fine and gross motor movement • Combat social isolation: build relationships, enjoy events and interaction, develop selfconfidence • Develop life skills: improve communication, take responsibility, be a team player • Connect with animals Kathy Hibbins, the group Chairman of the Peterborough branch since 2007, runs me through a typical Wednesday morning. “We ride at Grasslands Equestrian Centre, Helpston and normally have between 20 to 25 children of varying disabilities; anything from autism to cerebral palsy. We keep the children busy playing fun games while they ride, which helps develop their mental health as well as developing their physical strength”.

To celebrate their 50th Anniversary, the group is holding a large Picnic in Burghley Park in May, for the RDA children, with music and

entertainment, and in June, a Tea Party is being held at The Peterborough School for all past and present volunteers and major donors to the group.

NOTABLE FUTURE FUNDRAISING Local artist Michael Gibbison has given an impressionist watercolour, “Horses at Burghley” which is valued at £850 and is kindly being exhibited at The Old House Gallery, Oakham

by Richard Clarke, until the end of June. All funds raised from the sale of this picture will go towards riding lessons for the children.

Chief Instructor, Bella Craven, has also put together a fascinating book about the history of the group with wonderful memories. Titled ‘We Still Ride On Wednesdays’, copies are available at £15. Contact Bella on 07951 781636.

VOLUNTEERING The groups are always looking for enthusiastic people who have a positive energy and caring nature. No horse knowledge is necessarily required.

HOW YOU CAN HELP Each RDA Group is a registered charity in its own right and is totally self-funded.

They are always grateful for any income from fundraising activities. If you would like to organize a Fundraising event on behalf of one of the groups, or volunteer to help with riding lessons, then please contact your nearest group: • Peterborough & District RDA Group Charity No: 1074308 - Contact: Chairman - Kathy Hibbins 01780 783082. Email: kathryn.hibbins@btinternet.com • Fenland RDA Group Charity No: 1074098 0 Contact: Jane Peggs 07799 662291 Email: fenlandrda@gmail.com. The Fenland RDA Group is celebrating their 35th Anniversary this year. This group have been based in several locations over the years but now ride at a private yard in the outdoor school. The group rides children from two of Spalding’s special schools, The Garth and The Priory and on average, provide the opportunity to ride for 18 children each week.

• THE MOUNT GROUP RDA Charity No: 1074115 - Contact: Group Organiser -Diana Poyser 07764 404963 Email: Diana.poyser99@gmail.com. mountgrouprda.org.uk Chairwoman – Pat Bishop. Based at Somerby Stables, LE14 2QF, The Mount Group RDA is one of the busiest local groups. Formed in 1986, they run 13 sessions a week, riding over 50 adults and children, plus additional training sessions before competitions.

MEET A VOLUNTEER Ann Fletcher With 25 years, service for Peterborough & District RDA, Ann Fletcher is a longstanding volunteer. Her role in the group changes from session to session.

“Sometimes I will lead a pony and on other occasions I will be a side walker, carefully watching and helping the child ride. I particularly remember one young girl who struggled to walk due to her cerebral palsy, she originally sat on the pony in such a hunched position you could not see her face, but over the weeks her core muscles developed to a point where she could sit up, and we eventually saw her beautiful smiling face. These are the moments that make RDA so worthwhile”.

What about the ponies? “The ponies play such an enormous part in what we do and we have used some wonderful horses over the years – I remember fondly, Jack the gentle giant, Jupiter the fastest walking pony on the planet, and not so fondly Peter, who absolutely loved the children but not the person leading him.

He would constantly try to nip you and I still have tooth marks on my hand to this day!”

Ann Fletcher is due to receive a long service award from HRH Princess Ann during 2016 along with several other volunteers.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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OU T & AB O UT

Power to Your Ride Rutland Cycling have launched a dedicated E-bike Centre at their Whitwell store, with over forty electric bikes now available to buy or hire.

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LECTRIC bikes are a common sight in European cities such as Amsterdam and Berlin, providing all the advantages of a regular bike, whilst reducing the strain on the body by giving you an assisted electronic boost.

Whether you are using them to ride faster, keep up with friends, help you up hills, improve your time around the woods or get to work, e-bikes are increasingly light, versatile and easy to use. They’re also great if you’re coming back from injury or struggle to ride longer distances, as they can allow you to cruise with ease and enjoy the pleasure of riding a bike.

David Middlemiss, Managing Director, said, “Here at Rutland Cycling we’ve been fortunate enough to be able to test ride some of the latest models and have seen the benefits of electric bikes first hand. We’re excited about the potential they offer for getting more people out riding bikes more often. E-bikes are a great way to get everyone involved in cycling, and with the broad range of e-bikes now on the market, there are models to suit everyone from commuters and leisure cyclists, through to mountain bikers looking for that extra boost and excitement on the trails. We’ve invested heavily in our e-bike range, and we’ve also added e-bikes to our hire fleet for this season – so for just £20, you can come and try out an electric mountain bike or hybrid bike for a couple of hours, and see what it feels like to do a lap of the lake with some power assistance.”

Electric bike technology has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years. Electric bikes are now much lighter, quicker to charge and have longer battery life than their predecessors. You also have more flexibility to control the amount of power you’re using as well as visibility on charge, remaining mileage and other vital stats.

Lithium-ion batteries are used on e-bikes – the same technology as is used to power electric cars.

Rutland’s e-bike range includes the more casual e-hybrid bikes from Raleigh, Haibike, Giant, SCOTT, Trek, Electra, Cube and Ebco, which are perfect if your ride or commute is just that little bit too long or hilly, or if you’ve got to carry a lot when you ride to and from where you need to be. A great way to pedal about town or explore the local countryside,

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enjoying all the sights and sounds without getting out of puff. You do still need to put some of the work in, but the battery power will give you a boost when you need it. Some electric hybrid bikes come fully equipped with integrated lock, light, rack and mudguards, so you’re ready to go!

Also featuring in Rutland’s range are high performance electric mountain bikes from Specialized, SCOTT, Giant, Trek and Cube, which are set to be the Next Big Thing in off-road riding. While some people may think an electric bike is cheating, that stigma is evaporating fast as more and more riders discover just how much fun it is to have some turbo boost in your back pocket – conserving more of your time and energy means you can conquer that big hill, take on another lap of the woods, challenge yourself to ride harder and faster and get more riding into your session.

With this new exciting range in store, Rutland Cycling will be running fortnightly led e-bike MTB rides at their trail centre at Fineshade / Wakerley through the summer. Visit www. rutlandcycling.com/rides for more information or pop into the new E-bike Centre at Whitwell to try one for yourself!

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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20/04/2016 17:17

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19/04/2016 13:42

L OC AL P EOPLE

Challenging Times Ahead We asked you to tell us about your sporting and fitness challenges and many readers responded, including Kate Brookes who will complete a 52 mile run in celebration of her 50th birthday next month. Amander Meade reports

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CCOMPANIED by her daughter Georgie (22) Kate will complete the Race to the King – the equivalent of two back to back marathons with a route across the South Downs National Park finishing at Winchester Cathedral. The race takes place across two days with a camping option half way where runners can shower, have a hot meal and recuperate before the next day’s efforts.

“Georgie and I have always wanted to do a big running challenge and to take a camping holiday together so we have combined the two for this event,” laughs Kate. Running for Save the Children, the pair have both started training from a point of fitness and are blessed with good natural stamina.

Kate is a veteran of two London Marathons and Georgie is a former schoolgirl cross country champion. “Our strategy is to power walk up the hills, jog across the tops and run down the other side. We have really enjoyed the training as Rutland is such a beautiful county to explore. My advice is to build up slowly and give yourself plenty of time to train for a big event.”

Kate works part time at Wellies Café at Rutland Water Garden Centre and anyone sponsoring her will be entered into a draw to win a cream tea for two.

• To sponsor Kate – www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ CatharineBrookes • To sponsor Georgie – www.virginmoneygiving.com/ GeorginaBrookes2

Mary Hardwick

FANCY A CHALLENGE YOURSELF? Mary Hardwick, Coach, champion Triathlete and Director of Inpsire2Tri worked with Kate and Georgie to maximise their training and offers these tips to would-be LOCAL CHALLENGES…. challengers.

18 June – Dambuster Triathlon 1. When considering a fitness A 1.5km swim, 42km cycle and 10k run challenge, firstly write yourself based around Rutland Water. Entries and a ‘road map’. Think about more information at www.pacesetterevents.com where you want to be and 14 August – Swim Rutland how you will get there, much A unique opportunity to swim across Rutland Water. in the same way as if you A 2KM swim with the option to swim double the were undertaking a long distance of 4KM. Safety is paramount throughout the journey. If you were driving event with support kayaks, powerboats and stand up from London to Glasgow, paddle boarders as well as the Red Cross on hand. you would think about the 10 September - The Rutland Marathon & Half distance and the time it might Marathon 2016. take you. Apply the same logic Traffic free running over 26.2 or 13.1 to your challenge. Consider how miles. More information at www. training might fit into your current therutlandmarathon.co.uk lifestyle. How much time can you injury, find out why. Lots of injuries occur because of poor stability commit without compromising work or or strength. Speak to a coach or fitness professional with some family? background in your sport to identify the reason – is it technique?

2. Unless you are a confirmed ‘lone wolf’ find a group 5. Take a wide view to training. If you are focussed on a running challenge, vary or partner to train with to make it fun and to support you. your activity taking in classes focussing on strength and flexibility to give your body Group sessions can definitely help with motivation. variation.

3. Don’t go mad initially. Build up gradually to minimise the 6. Learn as you go and remember that the journey is just as important as the risk of injury. Get some advice on a planned approach to challenge. Goals and situations can change but fitness benefits outweigh any obstacles building fitness and endurance. so remember life is too short to make yourself miserable – if the challenge isn’t working 4. If you do find you are experiencing pain or repeated for you, change it.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MAY 2016

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20/04/2016 17:18

Loomes Championship at Rockingham Horse Trials 20th to 22nd May 2016

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