Rutland Living January 2012

H e l p i n g y o u t o g e t t h e m o s t o u t o f l i v i n g LO C A LLY

RUTLAND LIVING food/fashion/health & beauty/home & garden/lifestyle

f o o d & dr i n k The Falcon, Uppingham F A S H ION January Man S H OPPING Local Sales

ÂŁ1.50 JANUARY 2012

@LocalLivingUK

www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING

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anuary means two things in our region: Fabulous sales (I always wait to get my fabric from Elizabeth Stanhope’s this month) and Lunch for Less is back! If you haven’t been to The Berkley Arms in Wymonden yet, then make the most of this offer (more on page 29); I have already booked for March!

Thank you so very much to all the entries for the photography competition, results on pages 42-44. I was overwhelmed by the standard and have many a front cover now to hand! To see more local talent I urge you to buy a copy of ‘Our Rutland’, which is a marvellous coffee table book and keepsake on sale for £6 this month from our sponsor ‘Buy the Book’, which sadly closes on the 15th January. I gather manager, Adam Faulconbridge, is looking for new premises and we wish him the best of luck.

Happy New Year and here’s is hoping for a prosperous 2012

Abigail Late in: “Don’t miss the Vanilla January sale which starts at 9.30am on Tuesday 3rd January. As usual there will be some great clothes at great prices and this year as a special treat to welcome customers in from the cold as they will be offering every customer a glass of warming Winter Pimms.”

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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, Leicestershire Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.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 Email: nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warner’s of Bourne

Subscribe to Rutland & Market Harborough Living 4

Editor’s choice of the month including an offer from The Dining Room, Pink Tofino boots, Remington Pearl Wand and more Up front – The Lord Nelson reopens in Oakham, The Advanced Skin Clinic in Stamford, Why solar power still pays off and more Market Harborough Happenings – The Day Spa at Archway, Aura, The Grooming Room, The Village Store and Cafe, Cottingham and more Shopping – New Year Sales in Market Harborough Shopping – New Year Sales in Rutland Local businesses – Professional advice from the experts Health and beauty – New Year Health & Beauty News Fashion – Spotlight on Jacks of Market Harborough and Oundle Fashion – Menswear boutiques in Rutland Food and drink – Reap what you sow in 2012 Eating out – Lunch for Less and the Queen’s Head, Bulwick Food and drink – The newly renovated Falcon Hotel, Uppingham What’s on in our region this month Travel – Winter Ski or Winter Sun? Walk – Fineshade Woods Photography competition – The Results !

Rutland Cover: Courtesy of Freddy Angell, winner of photography competition (www.redbubble. com/people/chipzip67)

Market Harborough Cover: Courtesy of runner up John Jones of Market Harborough

Subscriptions – annual rate £20 (UK only).

Please write to The Editor, enclosing cheque made payable to Local Living Ltd Or subscribe online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH Living JANUARY 2012

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ELIZABETH STANHOPE INTERIORS

SALE NOW ON 23B Mill Street, Oakham, LE15 6EA, Tel 01572 757577

Fabric, Furniture Lighting, Accessories Bedding, Towels Scents, Children’s Clothing & lots lots more

SALE StArtS tuESdAy 3rd JAnuAry

10% off all Wallpaper orders 27 Mill Street & 1 South Street Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA Telephone 01572 722345 Email: showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk

Stockists of

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Stills Katherine Hooker MAC Jeans In Wear Bitte Kai Rand Extensive handbag, jewellery & Gift Range

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Oak House Residential Care Home for the Elderly

www.barnack.co.uk

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Respite Care Bookings Now Being Taken For 2012 • Care home providing high quality care in comfortable ‘home from home’ surroundings • Dedicated ground floor respite care room/trial visit room, with en-suite available now, rate £575.00 per week.

• Oak House prides itself on offering high quality care in a pleasant friendly home environment

top brands to warm your toes and beat the winter chill !

Visit our shop in Barnack

for an extensive range of clothes & wellies Barnack, Stamford. PE9 3DY

tel: 01780 740115

2 miles from Burghley House

bringing kitchens to life...

Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Est

1981 - 30 Years

!

NEW SHOP NOW OPEN IN STAR LANE, STAMFORD SEE THE NEW AGA TOTAL CONTROL COOKER

• Room rates from £525 to £650 per week To request a brochure or for more information

please

telephone us on 01572 812647 or e-mail us on dcw@oakhouse28.fsnet.co.uk

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

Best Foot Forward

Bored? Time on your hands? Seeking something new?

Then why not give Best Foot Forward a go?

A friendly company arranging social and corporate walks, (theatre) trips, parties, either pre-organised or tailor made.

No membership required.

Call us on 07539 599710 or email bfforward@ymail.com

for further details, we would love to hear from you.

RANGEMASTER DESIGN CENTRE WITH OVER 20 COOKERS ON SHOW Showroom with 15 new displays including the latest contemporary kitchens.

QKS Kitchens, The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA

T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

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Editor’s selection Things to do and buy this January

Cavells I love these Tofino Boots

by Sorel Priced £155 from Cavells South Street, (opposite the Fire Station), Tel: 01572 772477 or online at: www.cavellscountry.co.uk

Stapleford Park Launches Slumber Spa Experience After all the pressure of the holidays, I can think of no better way to recuperate than at the new in-house Slumber Spa Experience on offer at Stapleford Park for the next 3 months: The Slumber Spa experience includes: a 30 Minute Spa treatment, Two Course Spa lunch, Three Course Dinner, Half a bottle of wine per person and a Full English breakfast.

Prices are from £150 per person and are based on two adults sharing. For further information Tel: 01572 787000

Ipod Dock Divine Audio has a special deal on this amazing iPod dock by UK brand ARCAM. It was £500 but is now only £350. With a built in battery, so it’s portable, you can send music wirelessly to it from a PC/MAC or iPhone/iPod/iPad via an adaptor. Available in Black or White.

Divine Audio, Unit 8, Pipewell Road Industrial Estate, Desborough, Tel: 01536 762211, www.divineaudio. co.uk

The Dining Room Indian Food with a twist A Saturday night wouldn’t be the same without a take away and these guys deliver for free (over £15). This January and February (not the 14th) they are also offering £10 off any meal eaten at the restaurant when 2 diners order 2 courses from the à la carte menu. I can thoroughly recommend the Honey and Chilli Chicken and any thing with King Prawns (I like the Madras, but it’s hot!).

The Dining Room, 8 New Street, Oakham, LE15 6BA, Tel 01572 722479

Health and Beauty Editor’s choice: If you’re feeling a bit strapped for cash after the festive season, then one of my favourite investment purchases is the Remington Pearl Wand professional curling tong, available from Boots in Oakham. The ceramic coated barrel is by far the best I’ve tried for producing soft, tumbling waves and is perfect for transforming your style for weddings, parties and events throughout the year. And priced from just over £20, you’ll save a fortune on trips to the hairdresser!

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

The Advanced Skin Clinic Sue Arnold has long been one of the region’s leading experts in podiatry, as Principal Podiatrist at the Instep Clinics in Stamford and Wansford.

A couple of years ago she branched out into health and beauty treatments, setting up Harriet’s Beauty Room, but once again with a focus on practical rather than purely cosmetic benefits and has become convinced by the effectiveness of the Environ range, which is exclusively supplied and stocked there.

The Environ product ranges were developed by a South African plastic surgeon, Dr Fernandez. It is scientific skincare that can really make a difference to all skin types, even problem and scarred skin. The entire range of professional-only products contain a unique combination of active ingredients to protect the skin from environmental aggressors and combat the signs of ageing. It is best described as a cosmaceutical, with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) included as standard in all the products and also Vitamins A, C & E. It leaves complexions glowing, radiant and naturallooking.

The Lord Nelson reopens in Oakham Nicholas Rudd Jones

December saw the re-opening of the Lord Nelson in Oakham’s Market Place. The timber framed building has been lovingly restored, the bedrooms of the former hotel turned into drinking and eating rooms and the restaurant changed into a bar area with open fireplace and original features.

We popped in early on a Saturday night. It was buzzing and welcoming. The layout of the rooms makes for very relaxed socialising. It’s warm, comfortable and unpretentious.

There’s a fine range of real ales - two pumps dedicated to Ufford Ales and two to guest beers.

There’s an impressive wine list featuring old and new world wines. The food menu has a choice of antipasto, snacks, mains and daily and seasonal specials using locally sourced ingredients. They also serve exceptionally good stone baked pizzas.Oakham was desperate for a place like this. I highly recommend a visit.

Contact: The Lord Nelson, 11 Market Place, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DT, Tel: 01572 868340, www.thelordnelsonoakham.com

Rocket Sixteen Promotions - Musically Gifted? Want to play in a Rock Band?

Rocket Sixteen is a new venture for Rutland and the management are looking for musicians, bands and DJs, 19yrs and under, who are interested in the chance to play in front of live audiences.

Successful applicants will also have the opportunity to benefit from publicity for their act via the Internet, through the local media as well as having the chance to earn money when playing at concerts, which will be held at various venues across the county.

So if you are a budding musician, have a good voice or a ready made band then get in touch with Rocket Sixteen Promotions at rocketsixteen@hotmail. co.uk for further information.

Re-branding Open Day To mark the success of the first two years and to take the venture to the next stage, Sue is now re-branding the beauty business as ‘The Advanced Skin Clinic’. To celebrate this development there will be an Open Day on Thursday Jan 19 from 11am-8pm and will include:8 Environ skin analyses sessions from 1pm, 4 individual Jane Iredale make-up sessions, an audience with a make-up artist, Advanced Electrolysis demonstration and more.

Specialists from Environ skincare and Jane Iredale make-up will also be on hand during the day. Limited places are available so early booking is essential. Contact: The Advanced Skin Clinic, 11a High Street, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 481155

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement. Also: • Repairs and renovations • Overhaul and draught proofing • Reglazing and reputtying For a free, no obligation estimate please call James on:

Window Repair

Before

After

Before

After

Exterior joinery repair

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

www.traditional-restoration.co.uk

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront GBRT Invite Local Musicians to Join the all new GBRT Jazz & Swing Band

Queensgate’s ‘Win Your Christmas’ Queensgate shopping centre is thrilled to announce the winner of the ‘Win your Christmas’ competition - Sylvia Kavanagh of Stamford.

With nearly 1,500 entries from across the Nene Valley, Rutland and Stamford areas, the competition proved to be a big hit with savvy shoppers keen on scooping a supersized sack of gifts just in time for Christmas.

Sylvia’s amazing haul included a Christmas tree from John Lewis, along with a selection of dazzling decorations and a beautiful wreath from Queensgate’s resident florist Fleur.

Waitrose provided a voucher for an array of fabulous food as well as a £100 gift card courtesy of Queensgate – perfect for picking up those extra special presents.

On top of that there was a jam-packed gift set from LUSH, a voucher from Schuh and, to wrap it all up, Christmas cards and pretty paper from Paperchase.

Phil Drinkwater, marketing manager for Queensgate comments: “We are thrilled to be spreading the Christmas cheer by offering such an amazing set of prizes to Sylvia. We would like to say thank you to everyone who entered and to the host of retailers who supported us.”

Heidi Kjeldsen has a special promotion of 50% off selected items and 30% off all other stock. This is to make way for a brand new collection that Heidi is launching in 2012.The offer applies to stock jewellery and excludes commissions and repairs.

Launching their eighth choir and ensemble, the Great Bowden Recital Trust are now delighted to be inviting all interested local musicians to register for their new Jazz & Swing Band, regardless of age or experience.

Membership of the band is open to all ages, whether school age or adult, you simply need to be able to read and play music fluently.

Rehearsals will take place fortnightly on Monday evenings at Church Langton Community Hall (near Market Harborough) from 7.30 until 9.30pm. All 2012 rehearsal dates are available on the Trust’s website. Fees are payable one term in advance: £45 per term (Adults), £35 per term (School Students) To join, simply complete the Jazz & Swing Band Registration Form available on the website and send it, along with your first term’s fees to the address given before the date you wish to start. www.gbrecitaltrust.co.uk.

Why solar power still pays off Tony Dell, managing director at Sovereign Solar Power, explains why the energy source is a great investment for the future Recent proposals by the Government to reduce the earning potential from solar power by up to 50%, are leading to inevitable questions about whether it’s still going to be a worthwhile investment for homeowners in the future. The proposal under consideration applies to all solar power installations brought into service after 12 December 2011, and reduces the feed-in tariffs from 43.3p per kilowatt hour to just 21p after that date.

So, if the proposal is agreed and you’ve missed the mid-December deadline, is it worth investing in a solar power system? The short answer is yes! Naturally, you’ll still enjoy the benefit of generating free electricity for your own use - nothing changes there. And it’s worth remembering that even with the proposed reduction in earnings from the solar power feed-in incentive, there’s still index-linked tax free money to be made for 25 years, starting from the installation date. The earning potential over such a long period will still be significant, and is expected to provide around 5-10% return on the initial investment.

Current industry predictions are that the purchase cost of solar panels will come down in early 2012, reducing the initial outlay required to install solar power in the first place. Remember, too the other important reasons why it pays to generate your own power.

Unlike oil, it’s a reliable and fully renewable resource. And whereas burning oil to generate electricity releases greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide, polluting the air we breathe, solar power is pollution-free.

As solar panels contain no moving parts, solar power systems require little or no maintenance.

Long warranties come as standard with all solar panels and other system components, which is further proof of their durability.

The systems are also simple to install, and most solar power installation projects can be completed and busy generating electricity within just a few days. With solar power, you’re well protected against regular price hikes, unlike other domestic utilities. So, with all the publicity surrounding the proposed reduction in the Government feed-in tariff, don’t lose sight of the many other compelling reasons to choose solar power as a great renewable way to cut your carbon footprint and run your home for less.

For a no obligation quote and to find out more, call 01733 551329, e-mail info@sovereignsolarpower.co.uk or visit www.sovereignsolarpower.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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SHOPPING

Harborough HAPPENINGS Sosennah Every takes a closer look at new initiatives in Market Harborough

O

n my recent visit to Aura, the beautician asked me if her pen was a magic wand what would I want out of a facial? My answer was to relieve the dryness in my skin and to improve the glow. She recommended the Elemis ProCollagen Quartz Lift Facial (£65) and for the Medical Cosmetic Clinic offering next hour I wasLATEST cleansed, masked, AND massaged and moisturised, emerging rested and THE VERY BEAUTY scientifi cally-proven glowing!

The pro-collagen mask was very cool contrasting with the hot towels used to anti-ageing treatments COSMETIC TREATMENTS

by Aura’s Medical Director Dr. Ben Coyle remove it, giving my skin a big wake up call!

Although billed as an anti-ageing facial, it Elemis and Omnilux LED facials (Member of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors) really is for any one who wants to hydrate their skin.

All of the Elemis facials incorporate Microdermabrasion & head, shoulder any Priorineck, Anti-Ageing Peels and arm massages to help relieve tensions and help get rid ofTreatments for Lines & Wrinkles impurities.

IPL/Laser Hair Removal Excessive Sweating Reduction Since last month the cosmetic medicine arm of Aura has also been very Waxingopening & Electrolysis Thread Vein Removal popular with Dr Ben Coyle already performing a number of botox, injectable filler and Manicures & Pedicures Skin Rejuvenation thread removal treatments. I’ve got my eye on the Omnilux Light Therapy for Spray vein Tans and January. more… If anything is going to banish dull winter skin this will! It uses LED light to stimulate the skin into cellular repair and increasing collagen, thereby improving skin tone and counteracting the effects of ageing.

Aura Clinic, 26 The Square, Market Harborough, LE16 7PA Tel: 01858 462074

Beauty newsTrust in the best treatments… trust your Aura Food news The Day Spa at Archway 26 The Square, Market Harborough, LE16 7PA Tel: 01858 462074

Hurrah, a spa for Market Harborough! Sheeda’s Beauty Clinic, formerly of Abbey Street, has set up home at Archway House Natural Health Centre offering a spa, beauty clinic and hair dressing salon. Located on Lubenham Hill, there is easy parking available and clients will be able to experience a unique combination of clinical and holistic therapies.

Archway House, Lubenham Hill, Market Harborough, LE16 9SZ Tel: 01858 432168 www.sheedasbeauty.co.uk or www.archwayhouse.co.uk Touch of Beauty Following the success of their Leicester salon, Kully Modha and her team have opened in Market Harborough specialising in hair removal by threading, waxing and using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) laser treatments. Teeth whitening also available.

4A Coventry Road, Market Harborough, LE16 9BZ Tel: 01858 434 222 www.kullymodha.com

The Grooming Room Something for the men – this male hairdressers, barber and grooming centre has a fantastic 25% off offer on any massage in January. Their most popular are the sports massage and deep tissue massage. Other treatments include traditional wet shaves, teeth whitening, facials, reflexology and Indian head massage.

61 High Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AF Tel: 01858 419666

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Dr Ben Coyle

The Red Hot Curry Pot Takeaway A new Indian takeaway opens its doors on the Coventry Road ready to deliver tasty curries and Peri Peri dishes, Show their own take on the Afro-Portuguese this influenced recipe. article f For those not 25% dis or a count wanting a curry Terms a nd cond dish but still itions apply. interested in spicy food there are other meals available such as spicy lamb chops, chilly chicken and mango, grilled king prawns and more. Closed on Tuesdays and payment by cash only.

30 Coventry Road, Market Harborough, LE16 9BZ, Tel: 01858 419039

The Village Store and Cafe, Cottingham Recently opened is this charming village store and café, perfect for your day to day groceries, daily newspapers and a place to meet up with friends. There is fresh coffee and mouth-watering sandwiches, pastries and cakes available as well as an area for kids to draw, giving mums a chance to relax and catch up with each other! A community run store and café where all profits are reinvested so it is our duty to support it. Open 7 days – until 12.30pm on Sundays.

2 Corby Road, Cottingham, LE16 8XH Tel: 01536 770097 www.thevillagestoreandcafe.co.uk

Sports news Harborough Active Together In a bid to get us all more active this New Year, the Harborough Leisure District has put together a week of activities available across the district for just £1. The Move More 4 Less Week runs from the 16th – 22nd January when you can try activities such as Zumba, Body balance, Street self defence and Spinning or meet new people during a Health Walk. Classes will run in village halls or leisure centres in and around Harborough in the day and evenings.

In addition, Boxercise classes are starting on Fridays at 6.15pm at Welland Park Community college from the 13th January and beginner friendly Racket Ball sessions, a slower paced version of squash, starting on Saturday afternoons from the 14th January from 1pm.

Find out more by visiting www.harborough. gov.uk/activetogether or becoming a fan on Facebook by searching under ‘Active together Harborough’.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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A fresh approach to legal advice.

QualitySolicitors Wilson Browne has a proven track record of delivering a quality service built around achieving successful outcomes. This is because we treat each of you and your needs as individual.  Conveyancing – all types of property transaction.  Private Client - Wills, powers of attorney, inheritance tax, administration of estates, trusts & charities.  Family – divorce & dissolution of civil partnerships, finances, children, adoption & care, cohabitation agreements, mediation & collaborative law.

 Litigation – clinical negligence, personal injury, employment, contracts, professional negligence, immigration & commercial disputes.  Commercial – commercial property, acquisitions & disposals, employment law, debt recovery, insolvency, immigration and everything else a business needs.

0845 835 3000 / enquiries@qswblaw.com www.qswblaw.com  no hidden costs  same day response  direct lawyer contact  first consultation free Offices across Leicestershire & Northamptonshire

THE VERY LATEST BEAUTY AND COSMETIC TREATMENTS Elemis and Omnilux LED facials

Medical Cosmetic Clinic offering scientifically-proven anti-ageing treatments

by Aura’s Medical Director Dr. Ben Coyle (Member of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors)

Microdermabrasion & Priori Anti-Ageing Peels

Treatments for Lines & Wrinkles

IPL/Laser Hair Removal

Excessive Sweating Reduction

Waxing & Electrolysis

Thread Vein Removal

Manicures & Pedicures

Skin Rejuvenation

Spray Tans and more…

Trust in the best treatments… trust your Aura 26 The Square, Market Harborough, LE16 7PA Tel: 01858 462074

Dr Ben Coyle 13

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Clock & Watch Restoration and Repair Robert Loomes MBHI FRSA 4, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP 01780 481319

Member of The British Watch and Clock Maker’s Guild (Founded 1907)

www.clockrepairer.co.uk

Member of The British Horological Institute (Founded 1858)

House visits, all domestic clocks repaired, high grade repairs to all makes of watches.

Insured, qualified, guaranteed

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SHOPPING

Best of the Bargains in Market Harborough Michelle Hansel brings us some of the best bargains to be found in the Market Harborough New Year Sales

For those budding Musicians Two fantastic promotions are available at ABC MHmusic including: Fender Guitar & Amp Promotion ABC MH Music, as an approved Fender supplier, can offer the Fender Instant Rebate Promotion.

This iconic brand and their guitars and amps are currently fantastic value for money and, in addition to this, until 15th January 2012, there is up to £90 instant rebate on selected Fender and Squier models too. For example, the new Fender Standard Stratocaster is priced at only £385 and after the rebate will cost just £352.

Acoustic Guitar Promotion Also, during the month of January, ABC MH Music will have special offers on a whole host of selected acoustic guitars including the new Faith Trembesi series of all acoustic and electro acoustic guitars. These superb guitars are made from solid woods throughout and use ‘trembesi’ for back and sides, which gives the visual appeal of mahogany but the punch and tone of a rosewood.

ABC MHMusic, 7 St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough, LE16 7DS, Tel: 01858 463144 Web: www.mhmusic.co.uk

For those who want to look GorGeous Bag some fantastic bargains in the Christmas/New year sale at GorGeous this year with bootalicious boots just begging to be bought - go on you deserve it. The sale will begin at 11am on Wednesday 28th December. Most of the popular brands in both men and womens sizes will be available such as Fly London, FitFlop and Replay.

GorGeous, 10 St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 465118, www.gorgeous-online.com

For those in need of some home improvements At Martins of Harborough you will find at least 20% off and in some cases up to 50% off Sheraton and Chippendale kitchens including the brand new ranges and painted wooden doors. The new painted doors are available in six different fashionable and classic colours across three kitchen styles! There will also be up to 30% off all RWK kitchen ranges, up to 50% off selected bathroom ranges and 20% off fitted bedrooms with sliding doors.

Martins of Harborough Ltd, 6 Northampton Road, Market Harborough, LE16 9HE, Tel: 01858 468683

For those who like to buy big and small It has been a great year for The Little Big Bra Shop. As finalists in the Underlines Best shop Award in the best newcomer category they are pleased to announce their sale in January, a specific date still to be confirmed. You will find all their well-known brands including Fantasie, Freya, Chantelle, Passionata, Lejaby, Prima Donna, Marie Jo, Curvy Kate and Panache; some with up to 50% savings so there is no time to lose.

The Little Big Bra shop, 4 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, Tel: 01858 465592

For those who want craftsmanship Countesthorpe Blinds annual Love Shutter promotion provides an excellent opportunity to purchase the UK’s premier Shutter brand at such an amazing price. They are offering an alluring 20% off their full range of quality wooden S:CRAFT Blinds and Shutters purchased between the 1st January and 14th February 2012.

Because of their bespoke nature internal plantation shutters can be fitted to practically any window or door and can even be used as a room divider.

Each material has its own standard range of finishes and a custom colour option is available on selected ranges, providing an almost unlimited array of colour finishes.

Countesthorpe Blinds Ltd, Tel: 0116 277 6749 www.countesthorpe-blinds.co.uk

For those who love quality all year round For quality clothes and accessories then the Jacks sale is the place to be. Starting on the 28th December this is a genuine sale of all Jacks merchandise sold at up to 40% off their original price.

Jacks, 16 Church Street, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 431396

For the little ones in your life The sale at Cot ‘N’ Togs begins in early January with selected ranges of babies’ and children’s clothes on offer, well worth a look for birthdays and christenings in the New Year!

Cot ‘N’ Togs, 3 Church Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AA, Tel: 01858 468568

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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SHOPPING

January Sales in Rutland Amander Meade rounds up the best of the bargains to be found in the sales this month

F

amily run Oakham Oriental Rugs have a wide selection of new and old hand knotted rugs and as well as traditional styles. Fiona and Chris have extended their contemporary range which now includes a ‘Design Your Own’ option. Says Fiona, “Choose your colour and size and the rug is handmade for you in Nepal in wool and silk. Our stock includes collections of Persian rugs, Afghan rugs, Ziegler rugs, Gabbeh, Aubusson and many more. Also popular are our Kilim covered footstools and cushions which will be discounted in the sale which takes place throughout January with at least 20% off many pieces.”

Fords of Oakham offer up to 50% discount this month across all departments with bargains to be snapped up in lingerie, menswear, beds and bedding where famous names include Tempur and Silentnight. Brands always popular in the kitchen are Bodum, Silverwood, Dartington, Brabantia and Salter. Take the opportunity to visit the extended toy department and giftware section to stock up on presents for the year to come - Ford’s sales staff are glad to provide customers with specialist advice.

Oakham Oriental Rugs

Faith at Perch & Preen Boutique Pomegranate will be offering a 20% discount on all her fragrances, which include brands such as Miller Harris, Creed and Loubin – a gorgeous treat if you weren’t lucky enough to receive one in your stocking this year. The sumptuous Korres facial range will also be on sale which starts this month, with offers changing weekly – visit the website for current deals.

Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors stock thousands of metres of stunning fabrics on the roll at fabulous prices, which are further discounted at sale time. There will be additional discounts on furniture and lighting this month plus lots of bargains in soft furnishings, furniture, bed and bath, home accessories, children’s clothes and toys. A welcoming team of professionals are happy to assist in any decision making, so take advantage of their extensive design and project management skills. Also available are full making up, loose cover and re-upholstery services.

Fords of Oakham

Pomegranate

Sarah Harding Interiors will also be starting their sale on Wednesday, 4th January and most ranges will be heavily discounted. Visit the showroom and choose from a tempting range of accessories including Cath Kidston wash bags, aprons, tea towels, handbags and desirable throws and cushions. Also 10% discount off all fabric and wallpaper orders during January. They also offer an interior design consulting service either at the showroom or in your own home, plus a full soft furnishing making up service including upholstery and loose covers from Sarah’s highly talented team.

Directory

Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors, 27 Mill Street & 1 South Street, Oakham LE15 6EA Tel: 01572 722345 www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk Fords of Oakham, 8 Church Street, Oakham, LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 722 654 www.fordsofoakham.co.uk Oakham Oriental Rugs, 6 The Maltings, Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA Tel: 01572 724441 www.oakhamorientalrugs.co.uk Pomegranate, 2A Mill Street, Oakham LE15 2EA Tel: 01572 755096 www.pomegranate.uk.com Sarah Harding Interiors, 27 High Street East, Uppingham LE15 9PY Tel: 01572 823389 www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk

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Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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The Sale haS arrived

UP TO Opening Hours

Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sundays & Bank Holidays 11am - 4pm

After Hours Shopping by Appointment

Telephone: 01780 754413 www.IshouldCocoStamford.co.uk Webshop opening soon 2 - 4 George Hotel Mews, Stamford. PE9 2LB

50%

OFF

SALE NOW ON

acrOSS The STOre Fords of Oakham

8 Church Street, Oakham, Rutland Tel: 01572 722654 www.fordsofoakham.co.uk

KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS NO PROBLEM Many designs begin with a problem to solve. Many start with lots! Be it patios, privacy, overgrown shrubs or lack of colour,

It can be solved Ring 01780 481624 to see how www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

Sarah Harding Interiors Ltd

SALE 10% off all fabric and wallpaper orders in January Extra discount off selected accessories Sale starts 4th January 2012 27 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY

Tel: 01572 823389 Open Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5pm info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk 17

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LOCAL BUSINESS

ALL IN ORDER Start the New Year with all your affairs in order - our regional experts offer advice on all aspects of law, finance and taxation.

Amander Meade Family Matters…

Family breakups can expose complicated issues according to Melanie Grant of Simmonds Grant. An expert in family law, Melanie considers pre-nuptial agreements to be a good idea especially when there are children from previous relationships involved. “Romantic it is not, but a discussion about what would happen in the event of a split – however unlikely – can be a very practical decision. Post nuptial agreements for couples already married are also pragmatic and a Trust Deed is crucial for unmarried co-habiting couples who have children or jointly own property.”

Quality Solicitors Wilson Browne is one of the largest and most experienced legal practices in the region. “We have dedicated teams working in all aspects of child and family law, litigation, private client, trusts and charities law as well as domestic and commercial conveyancing and we aim to offer a consistently high quality service to clients at each of our offices across Northamptonshire and in Leicester.”

Kearney’s Solicitors in Uppingham recommend using a solicitor with a specialty such as theirs in Family Law. Irene Kearney Rose told us, “Mediation is usually recommended these days in cases involving separation but it’s very important to have a clear idea of what you wish to achieve before beginning the mediation process. A good solicitor can help to clarify the best longterm solutions for clients who may well be very emotional and caught up in short term issues.

Arriving at a practical, long term solution is always our goal.”

Where there’s a will…..

Too often neglected is the creation of a will, especially by those in their thirties and forties

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who are still looking after families. Smith Partnership has a helpful and informative section on their website which explains why making a will is vital. They also offer a fixed fee for single and mirror wills and offer advice on inheritance tax planning.

Saving for a rainy day…

One of the longest established Building Societies in the UK is the Market Harborough Building Society which has been owned by its members since 1870. “We have continued to evolve, innovate and always put our members first.” You can find out more about mortgages, savings, insurance and financial planning services at their branch on The Square. Arcus Taxation & Accountancy Services focus on supporting small and growing businesses and private individuals in Rutland and the surrounding counties. “We pride ourselves on our innovative taxation planning strategies which are popular with landlords, developers and letting agents as well as personal self assessment and tax returns for individuals.”

Cumulo Taxation & Accountancy offers a very personal service to sole traders and operators of small businesses with advice from planning to growth through to selling a business. They also offer a really useful newsletter link via their website.

Planning for Care…

Hegarty’s have been offering a wide range of legal expertise and friendly service for over thirty five years. Look out for their seminars – open to all - held to update individuals on changing aspects of law or elements that are affecting more and more of us such as funding the long term provision of care. See the website for seminar dates.

Directory: Abel-Brown Solicitors, Tel: 01572 758980 www.abel-brown.co.uk Arcus Taxation, Tel: 01572 770552, www.arcus-tax.co.uk Barlows Solicitors (also in Leicester) Tel: 01858 410040 www.waterlowlegal/barlows.com Bray & Bray, Tel: 01858 467181 www.braybray.co.uk Brown & Co Solicitors, Tel: 01858 434204 www.brownsolicitors.co.uk Buckles Solicitors, Tel: 01733 888888 www.buckles-law.co.uk Cumulo Accountancy & Taxation, Tel: 01572 823277 www.cumulotax.co.uk Daltons Solicitors, Tel: 01572 722002 (Oakham) or Tel: 01780 762526 (Stamford) Davies, Stephenson & Co Accountancy, Tel: 01572 770277 Edward, Hands & Lewis Solicitors, Tel:01858 419891 www.ehlsolicitors.co.uk Hegarty Solicitors Tel: 01780 752066 (Stamford Office) www.hegarty.co.uk Howes Percival (Offices in Northampton, Leicester, Milton Keynes and Norwich.) www.howespercival.com Kearney’s Solicitors Tel: 01572 823605 Lawson-West (also in Leicester), Tel: 01858 445480 www.lawson-west.co.uk Market Harborough Building Society Tel: 01858 412250 www.mhbs.co.uk Oldham, Marsh, Page, Flavell Tel: 01664 563 162 www.ompf.co.uk Philip Daulby Financial Management, (Offices in Uppingham & Oakham) Tel: 01572 822015 www.pd-financial.com Quality Solicitors Wilson Browne Tel: 01536 410041 www.qualitysolicitors.com/wilsonbrowne Simmonds Grant Solicitors, Tel: 01572 821184 (Uppingham) or Tel: 01572 756866 (Oakham) www.simmondsgrant.co.uk Smith Partnership, Tel: 0116 247 2000 www.smithpartnership.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING january 2012

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DIVORCE? SEPARATION? WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN? Contact SIMMONDS GRANT

Are you married, cohabiting or in a civil partneship?

Has your relationship come to an end?

Free 30 minute initial consultation Call for an appointment with one of our family law specialists Melanie Grant or Julia Weber We provide a full range of legal services for our private and business clients

Do you need, sensible and reliable advice to help with financial problems or disagreements about your children?

• Residential & Commercial Conveyancing • Family and Child Care Disputes • Separation and Divorce • Wills, Probate and Administration of Estates • Accident and Personal Injury Claims • Employment Issues • Lasting Powers of Attorney & Court of Protection Work

Then talk to Kearneys solicitors.

The Family Law firm.

www.simmondsgrant.co.uk

11c High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PY Tel: 01572 823605 Fax: 01572 824035 Email: irene@kearneys-law.co.uk Solicitors regulated by the Law Society. Principal Solicitor, Irene Kearney-Rose.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

4 Mill Street, Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA Tel 01572 756866 Fax 01572 755996

47 High Street East Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY Tel 01572 821184 Fax 01572 822327

For friendly service and advice Wills and Powers of Attorney team:Martin Hill, Emily Maybury and Jo Bullivant Conveyancing team:David Barson and Corrine Appleyard Family team:Amanda Weaver and Chris Monro 51 High Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AF

01858 467181

Contested Probates:Chris Monro Employment:Ian Lewis Rob Elliott

Offices also at Leicester and Hinckley www.braybray.co.uk

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Health and beauty

New Year Health & Beauty News énergie fitness for women, Oakham Following an exciting and successful trial of a new LED lipo treatment, Lipo-Light, at energie fitness for women, Tony and Araminta are delighted to announce the launch of their new business ‘Contours’ and the arrival of their very own machine, the first of its kind in Rutland. A non-invasive body contouring treatment, it uses heat and light to slim and tone problem areas, resulting in immediate measurable inch loss. Tony told me: “We did the trial with six ladies for 20 minutes each and were delighted with an average result of 2.08cm loss in the tummy area. The largest loss was 4cms – amazing from just a single use. I am getting reports from other trials of averages over 10 people of up to 4.3cms on their first visit!” Gyms are the perfect venues for this machine as the combination of Lipo-Light and regular exercise achieves sustained results. Try it for yourself now by contacting Contours on Tel: 0775 461 5191 Rutland health and Beauty Clinic, Oakham Treat yourself to a manicure with a difference in the New Year with the Shellac nail treatment at Rutland Health and Beauty Clinic. A revolutionary new product, it’s recently caused a bit of a stir in the media as it is said to look even better than acrylic nails. It is applied like a polish but is cured under a UV light, therefore drying instantly (no more smudged nails!!) But, even better, it will last up to 2 weeks without losing shine or shimmer. Available as French manicure finish or choose from over 20 other great colours. Price: £30. Call the salon on Tel: 01572 756589.

Woodlands Hospital, Kettering If you are thinking of a fresh look for the new year but are nervous of making any big changes, then the regular open events at the renowned Woodlands hospital in Kettering are the perfect opportunity to do your research. The evenings invite questions in informal, relaxed surroundings and give prospective patients the opportunity to meet with consultants there and find out about the various surgical and non surgical procedures on offer.

Treatments to enhance skin condition include microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser skin rejuvenation. Or clients hoping for a more dramatic change can discuss treatments such as breast enlargement/reduction/uplift, tummy tuck, liposuction, eye lid surgery, facelift and nose surgery. Contact the Woodlands Hospital on 01536 414515 or visit www.woodlandhospital.co.uk to find out details of the next open event.

Nail & Beauty Bar, Uppingham The new Uppingham Nail and Beauty Bar have the perfect solutions for some pampering if you’re feeling a little cash-strapped after the festivities. Why not try the ‘Prompt Pampering’ package – a mini manicure and relaxing Indian head massage for just £25! Book in now by calling Tel: 01572 820263.

Aura, Market Harborough An exciting new hair and beauty salon with a difference has opened its doors in central Market Harborough, run by a UK-leading cosmetic doctor and a top professional hair stylist. For the first time under one roof clients will have access to the best professional hair design and styling, and the very latest beauty and medical cosmetic treatments at Aura, located in the town centre. Dr. Ben Coyle, the Medical Director of Aura, is a member of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors, and former director of an award-winning cosmetic clinic in the West Midlands. He said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to be able to offer people a one-stop salon for all hair, beauty and medical cosmetic needs”. Aura offer medicalgrade treatments that do more than make the skin feel good but actually improve skin health and provide scientifically-proven anti-ageing rejuvenation. Hair salon director Sandra Vaizgelaite has recruited a top London designer stylist to ensure the salon offers the highest level of professional experience and cuttingedge styles, colours and extensions at very modest prices. Call Tel: 01858 462074 for your appointment.

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Private Psychological Therapy Service

Johan Truter

Chartered Clinical Psychologist Specialised in treating the following areas: • Low self esteem and loss of confidence • • Anxiety, panic and stress • • Depression, low mood and despair • • Phobias, obsessions and ruminations •

www.psychologistuk.co.uk For further information please contact

01780 758556

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

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WINTER SALE

STARTS WEDNESDAY 28 TH DECEMBER 2011 PLEASE NOTE THAT WE WILL BE CLOSED ON TUESDAY 27TH DECEMBER IN PREPARATION FOR THE SALE 20 Market Place, Oundle Tel: 01832 270033 16 Church St, Market Harborough Tel: 01858 431396

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FASHION

A PASSION FOR FASHION Gill and Paul Haynes of Jacks run two successful independent clothing stores in Oundle and Market Harborough. Their secret? Great quality garments and accessories that real women actually want to wear. Fiona Cumberpatch reports

G

ill Haynes is genuinely excited about fashion. “I still love seeing the new collections arrive: the lorry pulling up outside the shop, getting the boxes in and unpacking to reveal the colours, shapes and textures. When we’re out buying, coming across something expected still makes my heart skip a little beat.”

Keeping things fresh is the key to business success in a difficult economic climate, says Gill.

She and husband Paul undertake two buying trips each year for their three shops (two next door to each other in Market Harborough and one in Oundle) and are constantly searching out brands to bring customers back through the door.

Gill opened Jacks for Men in Market Harborough 15 years ago after spotting a gap in the market, and by 2000, she had expanded into women’s wear. As the business grew, joining forces with Paul, then a fashion agent in London, made perfect sense, and the couple added their Oundle shop to the business in 2002. “The sales floor is my territory and Paul’s is admin and finance. That frees us up to do what we each do best,” says Gill.

MEETING THE CHALLENGE It’s a difficult time to be a small player on the high street, and the Haynes do not make light of the challenge. “Now, you have to make every penny work, set a budget and stick to it rigidly,” says Paul. “Keeping the shop exciting, evolving constantly, that is the key. We have 14 staff, as well as Saturday girls, who depend on us. It’s not a hobby. This is 24/7 for us.”

But how can you compete when Primark can sell tops for £2, TK Maxx is busy bulk-buying designer names to sell at chain store prices and Asos is on everyone’s computer favourites list? “For longevity, it still makes sense to buy quality,” says Gill. “But we are aware that everyone is watching the pennies, and for that reason, we’ve recently introduced some good value collections from Esprit and YaYa, which are proving incredibly popular.”

Personal service is also essential, believes Paul. “Some of our customers will phone ahead to see if their favourite member of staff is going to be here to advise them. We get women travelling here specially from London, Nottingham and Gloucester. They know that we have cherry-picked the collections and what they’ll be getting is a concise version, which makes choosing so much easier.”

Adds Gill: “Not everyone wants to shop on the high street. Knowing that you’ve bought something which makes you feel confident, which is special and right, counts for a lot.”

INVESTMENT DRESSING And Jacks sell clothes which work very hard for their money; Jeans by French Dressing which are designed to flatter real figures, softest leather jackets in beautiful colours, clever tops with flattering sleeves and elegant yet understated dresses to carry you through from day to night. If you do the cost-per-wear maths and factor in the sheer ease of getting dressed, it’s an investment worth making.

Then there are the accessories - a £25 statement necklace which can completely transform a plain top, pashminas and oversized scarves in juicy colours and interesting textures, and cute hats trimmed with bows and sequins.

Shoes and boots by Unisa are covetable and classic.

The shop’s legendary seasonal sales are also a high point in any fashion-savvy shopper’s calendar.

“They’re a necessary part of the business and they are very popular,” says Paul. “We never buy stock just for our sales; we only make genuine reductions and people know that.”

Living and working in the town of Market Harborough means that the couple really know their customer,

which is vital when selecting the brands that they’ll stock. “We work six months ahead – our first piece of summer stock will be arriving soon,” explains Paul. “We work hard to find new collections, and we have a good relationship with the agents who represent the fashion houses, so they might come to us and offer us first pick of what they have.”

“Working ahead means you have to use your intuition, what will be relevant and up to date.

Sometimes you take a gamble, while at the same time thinking about every penny that you’re spending,” says Gill. “But it’s visualising how the fashion ‘stories’ will sit in store, choosing the pieces and colours that we like best, finding something a little different that’s not on the internet for everyone to buy. That’s what keeps it exciting and enjoyable.”

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JANUARY MA FASHION

It’s not just us girls that like to start the New Year with a new look. Men can also feel stuck in a fashion rut, want to update their wardrobe, yet don’t know where to start. Vanessa Hollander took a look around three fabulous Menswear boutiques in Oakham and came up with a few looks to provide the man in your life with some inspiration!

FORDS OF OAKHAM Fords is a veritable treasure trove of goodies. A trip around the fashion departments can produce some absolute gems and Menswear is no exception. They stock brands such as Joules, Wolsey and Musto and provide the excellent level of customer service that they are renowned for.

CAVELLS Cavells on Mill Street provides the ultimate in menswear shop. Here you will find luxury brands such as Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren, Gant and Hackett. Within this beautiful shop you will find everything you need to update or makeover your wardrobe.

BELOW Hackett Mini Gingham Shirt - £85, Hackett V Neck Jumper with Elbow Patches - £135 Hackett Moleskin Slim Trousers - £120 Gant Frienz Suede Boot - £119

RIGHT Wrangler Cords - £46, Shirt, Musto - £65

CAVELLS – SOUTH STREET Just around the corner from the main Mill Street shop lies Cavells South Street.

If your style is stylish and fashionable yet with a more relaxed, weekend / country look, then this is the place to come.

Experienced staff are happy to help you put together a look with brands such as Barbour, RM Williams, Levis, SuperDry and Schoffel Countrywear.

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LEFT Barbour Moran Jacket £139.95, Napapijri Dargan Old Knit Cardigan £209, Levis 508 Jeans - £89.99, Sorel Chipmunk Boots - £199

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AN!

JACK RUSSELL Jack Russell pride themselves on manufacturing solely in Great Britain and Europe and can literally clothe a man from head to toe should he decide to walk into the shop naked! They stock both casual and formal wear that is reasonably priced given the excellent quality and style of the clothing.

Definitely worth a visit!

LEFT Grey Merino Polo Neck Jumper - £125 Black Jeans - £49 Wool Herringbone Coat - £249 ABOVE Cambridge Chinos - £55 Leather Belt - £49.95 Jacks Flora Shirt - £59 London Raincoat - £225 Scarf - £38

STOCKISTS

Fords of Oakham, Tel: 01572 722654, www.fordsofoakham.co.uk Jack Russell, Tel: 01572 774820, www.jackrussellclothing.com, Cavells, Tel: 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk Photographer – Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

JANUARY 2012

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FOOD & DRINK

Reap what you sow in 2012 A VIP Year – Sarah Lyon proposes that you make a conscious decision to get involved in one of these Very Important Projects and help to sustain and support your local food and farming community Virtuous Bread; Become a Bread Angel – Home baking course and social enterprise Virtuous….Virtue, says Jane Mason of Virtuous Bread, “is lived out in the set of behaviours we use when we are building and maintaining positive relationships.

Because nobody is perfect, the cycle of apology and forgiveness is central to virtue. This requires that we see from someone else’s point of view.”

Bread…Jane adds, “when we eat well we are more patient, tolerant and kind and more likely to think clearly and act respectfully.”

“There is nothing that builds angelic camaraderie quite like kneading together or your first attempt at shaping a loaf.”

Improve your bread-making skills and learn more about running a small home-based food business. A three day course that combines amazing steps in developing bread-making confidence with clear, practical and up-to-date information about the business of baking bread at home and delivering it locally to your neighbours, local cafés, delis, day centres, schools and farmers’ markets. After the course when you have your ‘bread wings’ you have the option of continuing your relationship with virtuousbread.com, for business and moral support. Consider becoming a Bread Angel Trainer and teach others to become a part of this ‘host of angels’.

London courses with Jane Mason (Tel: 07711 267 278); Leicester and Norfolk courses with Rosie Clark (Tel: 07894 232543), rosie@virtuousbread.com, www.virtuousbread.com

Capers Caterers Gives Back!

Sally Birrell of Capers is a caterer who provides a bespoke catering service nurturing and guiding her clients every step of the way.

“Capers can encompass any theme and create any style. We believe that every meal is our only meal and in doing so we take full responsibility for the event and venue. The A1 motorway is a fantastic corridor for us. Our fleet of five refrigerated vans ensures that food travels in the safest environment.”

After a trip to Northern Mozambique Sally has chosen to focus on and support NEMA’s School Feeding project whose aim is to reduce child malnutrition, to improve school attendance and to improve concentration levels at school. Sally invites clients to make a donation through their invoice of just 20 pence per head which in return gives NEMA the ability to feed one child for one day, providing that child with a full belly.

Capers Catering, Sandy, Bedfordshire – Tel: 01767 631700 www.nemafoundation.org

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Chater Valley Farm Rent-a-Porker Scheme “The pigs are born free range and woodland reared. All the animals, both pigs and cattle, are produced in an environment that focuses on their welfare.”

The animal breeds are also chosen for their docility and good temperament. This is important for another reason; future plans include the provision of an educational and support environment for children and families including those who are living with autism.

The Rent-a-Porker Scheme is for those who would like to have a pig for their freezer but don’t have their own land. At £45 a month for six months, it’s more expensive that supermarket meat, but you can follow your pig’s progress with visits to the farm and you finish up with delicious rare breed pork and sausages from a trustworthy source. If a whole pig is too much, consider going halves or thirds with friends.

Chater Valley Farm – Pinfold Lane, Pilton, Oakham, Rutland LE15 9PA, Tel: 01780 720660

Follow the Herd Sponsor a Cow Scheme with The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust where Shetland and Longhorn cattle are grazing life back into our nature reserves Careful grazing is a critical part of grassland management, creating the right conditions for wildlife to flourish by keeping down coarse vegetation which would overwhelm rarer, more delicate plants. The trust manages a variety of important grassland sites including heath land and wild flower rich meadows. Your sponsorship helps care for the cattle that graze the land.

Simply choose which breed of cow you would like to sponsor and complete a form. In return you will be rich in the knowledge that you are helping to sustain and preserve our nature reserves, you will receive a sponsorship certificate for your cow, a soft toy ring, two newsletters updating you on your cow’s progress and an invitation to meet the cattle at one of the trust’s nature reserves.

Go to www.lrwt.org.uk/support-us/sponsor-cow

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L’Oliveto Restaurante Italiano

Authentic Italian & Mediterranean Cuisine Visit us for:

Morning Coffee, Lunch & Dinner All Restaurants Available for Weddings, Christenings & Parties

L’Oliveto Uno 14 Church Street Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 759656

L’Oliveto Due

Fisher Lodge, Normanton Road, South Shore Rutland Water, LE15 8HD Tel: 01780 721599

NOW OPEN IN STAMFORD

L’Oliveto Tré

Old Barn Passage, St Mary’s Street Stamford, PE9 2HG Tel: 01780 489169/Mob: 07818 417610

ge 1 Not So L ar pizza with da 2 toppings an beer pint of selected

for just £9.95 -7pm Mon-Sat 6pm

Is Now Open

2 Not So La pizzas, 2 to rge ppings and a bott le of white, red or rosé hous e wine

£19.95

Mon-Sat 6p

m-7pm

We have 5 real ales (including White Hart and Rupert’s Wardog), a selection of continental lagers and an expansive wine list that we import ourselves from around the world. Our speciality is stone baked, handmade pizzas with a wide choice of toppings, anything from the traditional to the slightly quirky!

We also have a range of other dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

11 Market Place, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DT t. 01572 868340 info@thelordnelsonoakham.com www.thelordnelsonoakham.com 27

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News from Oundle Mill

Rave reviews for the new Head Chef at Oundle Mill Oundle Mill and new Head Chef, Gavin Austin, have been delighted by the fabulous feedback about the new menus at Oundle Mill.

The food was fantastic, the service excellent and the whole ambience perfect

He is a young and dynamic chef, aiming to provide a stylishly modern take on local restaurant dining, appealing to diners looking for a great experience but with an eye on cost. We think he is well on the way to achieving his goals, providing beautiful, vividly presented and elegant food of a very high quality with great attention to detail It’s so rare to find a chef who can take the best techniques from fine dining and apply them to creating great pub grub that’s a cut above the rest A totally delicious taste sensation

Dine for

½ price

on Mondays in January.

The perfect opportunity to try the new menus This offer is available January 2012 OUNDLE MILL. A PERFECT PLACE TO EAT, MEET OR SIMPLY RETREAT

Oundle Mill, Barnwell Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 5PB Tel: (01832) 272621 www.oundlemill.co.uk 28

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FOOD AND DRINK

LUNCH FOR EVEN LESS Six Local Top Restaurants Team Up to offer a fine lunch at an especially good price

Offer Valid Monday to Friday, the off er is variable to each restaurant.

To make your res ervation, please call the res taurant of your choice and quote the ‘Lunch for Even Less’ offer. Subject to availability.

The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham 2 courses for £11.95 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid - Tuesday, 24th January to Saturday, 31st March 2012 (closed on Monday Lunchtime, excluding Valentine’s Day) 01572 787587 www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk

THE QUEENS HEAD, BULWICK Fiona Cumberpatch

I

t’s always good to report that a village pub is back in business, and we’re pleased that Bulwick’s 17th century hostelry is firing on all cylinders again after a period in the doldrums and a three month closure. Under new ownership since May, The Queens Head has a fresh look, and a new head chef – Haydn Laidlow, previously of Oundle’s Chapel Dining Room. The cosy stone-flagged bar with its beams and wood burning stove has been lightened with mirrors behind the bar, cream walls and jaunty country checks, and there’s a more formal restaurant area, which extends over three rooms.

A blackboard with a short list of specials greeted us, and caused instant mouth-watering. There was also a printed bar menu, and an A la Carte one. We were in a light lunch mood, so, though tempted by the venison pie with mashed potatoes and veg, a Caesar salad with grilled chicken won the day for me. My colleague Bridget chose the grilled goats cheese salad with beetroot and pickled walnuts, and we shared some hand cut chips. My Caesar salad was crisp and delicious, with a good sized portion of char-grilled chicken, creamy parmesan dressing and – a surprise – fresh anchovies.

Bridget made short work of her smallish portion of goats’ cheese salad, relishing the earthy nut and beetroot flavours. She would have liked some bread to accompany it, which wasn’t offered. But she made up for her carb-free first course with a splendid dessert of bread and butter pudding, with fresh vanilla custard. My crème brulee with home made shortbread biscuits was an absolute blinder, with a crisp, crack-with-your-spoon caramel top and soft underside.

Chef Haydn produces deceptively simple, appetising food, all locally farmed or sourced, and eminently suited to a country pub that isn’t trying to be too clever. “I’m very lucky to have game from our local estate,” he says. “And I can’t wait to get our pizza oven fired up in the summer.”

Described as “a village pub with a restaurant,” you’ll find local drinkers, darts and dominoes teams here, walkers taking advantage of some fine paths, and dedicated diners wanting good food at an affordable price. There are CAMRA accredited real ales and an excellent wine selection, too.

Yes, the Queens Head is firmly back on the map.

• The Queens Head, Main St, Bulwick NN17 3DY Tel: 01780 450272 www.thequeensheadbulwick.co.uk Open: Tuesday – Sunday Prices: From £9.95 for a daily special to £16.95 for a rib eye steak. Sandwiches from £5.50.

Sharing platters from £8.25.

Hambleton Hall, Nr. Oakham 2 courses for £20.00 (3rd course for £5.25) (inclusive of 12.5% service charge) Offer valid - Monday, 16th January to Saturday, 3rd March 2012 (excluding Valentine’s Day) 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com Langar Hall, Langar 2 courses for £16.50 (3rd course for £5.00) Offer valid - Monday, 16th January to Saturday, 31st March 2012 01949 860559 www.langarhall.co.uk The Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington 2 courses for £12.00 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid - Monday, 16th January to Saturday, 31st March 2012 (excluding Valentine’s Day) 01572 822477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk The Red Lion Inn, Stathern 2 courses for £12.50 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid - Monday, 16th January to Saturday, 31st March 2012 (excluding Valentine’s Day) 01949 860868 www.theredlioninn.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

What’s New in Uppingham?

The Falcon Hotel The locals in Uppingham are harbouring a closely guarded secret. Unless you are a regular visitor to the town and connected to the community you will probably not know that The Falcon Hotel has changed.

You may have heard some months ago that it had been sold, but probably gave it no more than a passing thought; yesterday’s papers, today’s chip wrappers and all that. Well think again...

T

he couple behind local firm Arnold Wills, and their dedicated crew (consisting of the builders and related trades, together with their young, hardworking and extremely loyal staff), have been quietly and doggedly beavering away, lovingly resuscitating this local landmark.

Gone is the grime. Gone are the grubby bedrooms (clean if not yet all fully refurbished).

Gone, in short, are all the things that marred this Uppingham gem, in its commanding

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position at the heart of the town’s Market Square. Determinedly inclusive, but without any skimping in style or quality, change is firmly on the agenda.

A total shutdown of a week to get the drains sorted and the entire place deep cleaned. was accompanied by a revamp of the Tap Bar. Cast off any thoughts of razzle-dazzle finery and stuffiness and think deeply and genuinely welcoming. Imagine a place with a real bar,

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with real fires (which are lit), fresh flowers, and comfortable tweed upholstered chairs and people who are genuinely pleased to see you.

It’s no wonder that many of the customers arrive for a mid-morning coffee, drift over to Don Paddy’s, their café, bar, restaurant, for a spot of lunch, back for afternoon tea at the Falcon and then on for a convivial drink at The Vaults, their pub on another side of the Market Square. Each has its own individual character, the same great staff and the same dedication to making your experience as enjoyable as possible. Nothing is too much hassle, and it’s all so incredibly relaxed.

Carol Wills, the joint owner, with husband Robert (Uppingham champion born and bred) are the embodiment of their ethos for the businesses. Unfailingly open and approachable, to young and old, whether you’re there for a pint or to stay, she is refreshingly welcoming in a low key but unmistakeably generous way.

“We want the hotel to be classically stylish and good value for money. A place people want to come to, and not to be there just because they

need to be. We want it to be at the heart of Uppingham’s community, and a destination for those visiting because of that. An experience that is more than just the hotel alone.”

First on her agenda, together with fixing the roof and chimneys, and sorting the bar was getting the toilets done. As they say, you can tell a lot about a place by the toilets. These now definitely say there is a commitment to the customer, in every detail, whether small or large. Success is not magical or mysterious. It is the natural consequence of getting the basic fundamentals right.

This thinking ‘what would I want?’ has also led to putting the Lounge facing the Square so that you can see what is going on and feel a part of it. Upstairs, in the light-soaked refurbished bedrooms, the same care and personal touch have gone into the details. The duvets are generously sized, doubles on single beds, kings on doubles, you get my drift. The mattresses have been replaced with those designed to ensure a deep and restful sleep, pillows are down like and the well designed bathrooms filled with The White Company toiletries. As for the baths and showers, each set of four rooms now has their own hot water cylinder, replacing the single hot water cylinder that served the whole hotel previously.

All 50 guests can now shower and bathe at the same time in the secure knowledge that neither the hot water nor the pressure will be compromised.

Outside the garden has been given an overhaul and made a wonderful place to retire to, to enjoy the sun or simply to sit on the veranda with a drink. The food from the newly re-fitted kitchen (it was closed for a month for a complete overhaul) is really good. In a way it sums up what the Falcon is, which is good quality and wholesome. It is not fancy or over

the top, just very, very good. Generosity of spirit is married to a commitment to quality. Nothing is done half heartedly or by cutting corners.

The outstanding service delivers what you need, simply and efficiently, frequently before you know you need it. A breast-feeding guest at a recent wedding was given use of a nearby room at no extra cost and, offered tea as and when she wanted it. Unsolicited acts of hospitality such as these speak volumes about the consideration and attitude of the staff and owners. If you haven’t already been, go and experience it for yourself - you won’t be disappointed.

• The Falcon Hotel, 7 High Street East, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9PY Tel: 01572 823535 - info@falcon-hotel.co.uk, www.falcon-hotel.co.uk

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January & February 2012

Lunch for Less - Tuesdays to Saturdays Come and try our 2 course set menu:

Main & Dessert for £10pp Our usual Lunch Menu will be £12 for 2 courses, Starter & Main or Main & Dessert THE J

C

OU

ON S T S OP

KS AC

N N T RY I N

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month

Wednesday 4 to Saturday 7 January COURSE: Life Coaching Retreat led

by Adrian Holdstock Life coaching is emerging as a valuable helping strategy for setting direction, achieving ambitions, overcoming obstacles and turning dreams into reality. In this three day retreat the group will explore the nature of life coaching and its Christian basis. Individually, you will be able to work on a topic of your choice, in total confidence, with daily support from an experienced life coach and Christian minister.

• Launde Abbey. £355 per person to include all meals and accommodation. Booking and further information Tel: 01572 717254 or www.laundeabbey.org.uk

Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 January, various times PANTOMIME: Aladdin There is still time to enjoy a traditional pantomime so join Aladdin on a thrilling carpet ride and an adventure of a lifetime with sparkling sets, glorious costumes, spellbinding special effects, dancing, singing, comedy and loads of audience participation. This show is guaranteed to enthrall the whole family so if you have three wishes this Christmas, use one to see Aladdin.

• Stamford Theatre For booking information Tel: 01780 763 203 www. stamfordartscentre.co.uk

Saturday 7 to Saturday 21 January 2012 EXHIBITION: The School Prints Vintage Lithographs from the 1940s This collection of stunning modern art wartime lithographs have only recently been discovered after laying dormant for decades. The story behind the collection is as spellbinding as the prints themselves. Towards the end of WWII, a young newly-wed British couple Brenda and Derek Rawnsley, dreamed up a plan to bring contemporary art to impoverished schools throughout Britain. They commissioned exclusive lithographic prints by iconic British artists such as John Nash, Kenneth Rowntree, Henry Moore and Lowry and sold them cheaply

Throughout January FILM: Cinema at Stamford Arts Curl up with your popcorn and catch up on some of the most eagerly awaited film releases showing at Stamford Cinema this month. Films include George Clooney’s ‘Ides of March’, Matthew McFadyen in ‘The Three Musketeers’, Matt Damon and Kate Winslet in ‘Contagion’ and an extraordinary performance by Michelle Williams with Kenneth Brannagh in ‘My Week with Marilyn’. Who needs a multiplex?

• For details of showings, dates and times Tel: 01780 763203 or visit www.stamfordartscentre.com to schools. Take this unique opportunity to view all these prints in one setting before they are dispersed once more.

• All the prints can now be viewed online at www.schoolprints.co.uk. Goldmark Gallery, Uppingham Admission is free, more information at www.goldmarkart.com

Running until 14 January, 7.30pm, matinees 2.15pm THEATRE: 42nd Street 42nd Street is the inspiring story of small town girl Peggy Sawyer and her meteoric rise from chorus line hoofer to Broadway star. Packed with show-stopping numbers, this show is a celebration of toe-tapping, foot-stomping, deliciously uplifting razzmatazz not to be missed. • Curve Theatre, Leicester Tickets from £13 Tel: 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

Saturday 14 January, 2.30pm CHILDREN’S THEATRE: The Elves and the Shoemaker The well known and loved tale made popular by the Ladybird Classic.

Ashley Village Hall, Main Street, Ashley • Tickets £6 Adult, £4 Child, Family Ticket (1+2) £12 Tel: 01858 565410

Sunday 15 January COMEDY: Billy Connolly The eccentric Scotsman remains one of Britain’s most loved comedians. A true multi-talent; a fine actor, travel guide and humanitarian – but on this tour Connolly returns with what he’s most loved for – brilliant stand-up comedy.

• De Montfort Hall, Leicester, Tickets £35 (+£2) booking fee www.demontforthall.co.uk

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DIARY DATES

Thursday 26 January, 7.30pm LIVE BAND: The Churchfitters in Concert

Thursday 19 January, 7.30pm TRIBUTE SHOW: Experience the Man in Black

This Brittany based group of musicians from England, Ireland and France have taken UK audiences by storm with their unique and energetic performances.

With a fast paced, infectious show, the band features outstanding vocals, an astonishing array of instruments, a large dose of humour and a truly entertaining experience. Suitable for all ages. • Wymondham Village Hall Tickets and further information Tel: 01572 787247

Featuring Clive John as Johnny Cash, the ‘Man in Black’, with his world class band, this show delivers all the hits including The Ring of Fire, Boy Named Sue and Folsom Prison Blues along with many more songs from throughout Johnny Cash’s long career.

• This high energy show is much more than just a tribute; it’s an audio and visual spectacular.

Tickets £16/£14 Tel: 01536 470470 www.thecorecorby.com

Friday 3 February, 7.30pm ONE MAN SHOW: How Steeple Sinderby Wanderers Won the FA Cup Is it possible? Could a humble village team really have taken on the best and still come out on top? A joyous tale of the unstoppable rise of the underdog is rivetingly told by New Perspectives Theatre Company. Prepare to laugh, cry and above all to believe every word.

• South Luffenham Village Hall Tickets and booking information Tel: 01780 720687

Monday 30 Jan to Saturday 4 February MUSIC: The Rat Pack Live from Las Vegas

Saturday 21 January, 2.30pm FAMILY FILM: Dolphin Tale Warm yourselves up on this truly heartwarming family film starring Morgan Freeman and Harry Connick Jr. The film tells the story of a lonely boy who discovers an injured dolphin in need of a prosthetic tail replacement after becoming trapped in nets.

• Booking Tel: 01780 763203 or www. stamfordartscentre.co.uk

Tuesday 24 January, 10.30am – 12.30pm GUIDED WALK: Winter at Barnsdale Take a very special tour of the Gardens with Barnsdale’s owner Nick Hamilton, looking at the highlights of this magical time of year. Discover why and how individual gardens were created and find out which plants and trees are at their prime during winter, and the best place to put them in your own garden.

• Price £18, Booking essential Tel: 01572 813200

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Wednesday 25 January, 7.30pm CLASSICAL MUSIC: Travelling Music in Lyddington Local concerts begin again in March but in the meantime why not join the members of Music in Lyddington on their visit to Symphony Hall, Birmingham. The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra will be conducted by Andris Nelsons and Helene Grimaud will play piano. The programme will include Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1 – Winter Dreams.

• Price per person to include coach travel and concert ticket is £39 with a collection point in Lyddington.

Thursday 26 January, 10.30am-4pm WATERCOLOUR PAINTING DAY: ‘Poppies & Stone Wall’ Detailed demonstrations by Sandra Peck combine with a beautiful setting and a buffet lunch to make a most enjoyable day. Everyone welcome, from the more experienced artist to the absolute beginner.

• Price £67, including buffet lunch.

Booking essential Tel: 01572 813200

If you wish you had swung with the hardest partying pack in town – now is your chance!

Experience Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Junior and Dean Martin performing at the famous Sands Hotel. Hit follows hit, including all the classics backed up by the Burrelli Sisters and the Rat Pack Big Band. Major feelgood factor for a winter’s night.

• Curve Theatre, Leicester Tickets from £16.50 Tel: 0116 2423595 www.curveonline.co.uk

BOOK EARLY FOR… Sunday 26 February, 7.30pm THEATRE: An Evening with Simon Callow Simon Callow is one of the most English of English actors on stage and screen and has a longstanding love affair with the works of Charles Dickens. In this performance he takes on the mantle of Dickens – talking about him, reading from the works and conveying his energy and inventiveness.

Don’t miss this opportunity to have an early taste of the 2012 celebrations of the 200th anniversary of Dickens’ birth and find out why Simon Callow suspects “He was the greatest storyteller that ever lived.”

• Uppingham Theatre, Tickets £15/£13 – post show buffet £10 Tel: 01572 820820 www.uppthearts.co.uk

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Special 3 Month Membership Trial at Stapleford Park For £300 from January to March 2012

Make Stapleford Park your home from home. With a Stapleford Park membership, you can enjoy unlimited golf, use of the pool, tennis courts, technogym, fitness classes and discounts on food and beverages and accommodation. We also run special member events.

Terms and conditions apply.

If you would like further information, contact us on 01572 787000 or visit www.staplefordpark.com

R.

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A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World

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Merry Maids ~ your trusted help !

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Gateway 2 Ski

3 Bed Chalet – Self-catering. Sleeps 6-8 Prices from £670 a week Val d’Isère, Tignes, Les Arcs, La Plagne, Ste Foy, La Rosière, summer skiing, white water rafting and cycling e (All within easy access 5 – 20 mins drive) th N r Contact: Abigail and Peter Richardson fo SO Day: 0785 9027341 Eve:01572 756733 rly EA a e www.gateway2ski.com k 3S o E-mail: absnpete@yahoo.co.uk 1 Bo 12/ for further information

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LOCAL BUSINESS

TRAVEL

Top tipS

• On Friday and Saturday nights don’t miss the Fish Fry at Oistins in Christ Church, mingle with the locals and dance the night away under the stars. Dine on freshly grilled fish and enjoy an ice cold beer.

• As the most easterly island in the Caribbean, Barbados is usually least affected by tropical storms so don’t necessarily dismiss visiting during the low season.

Winter Ski or Winter Sun? Our travel experts, Emma Savage and Nick Edwards, offer two very different holiday destinations this month

Barbados Did you know that Barbados is roughly the same size as Rutland? Well they do say that good things come in small packages! This beautiful Caribbean island has lots to offer those looking to escape the unpredictable British winter. However, there’s much more to Barbados than the fabulous weather, spectacular beaches and crystal clear waters.

Being relatively small, it’s easy (and safe) to go exploring; take a tour round a rum factory, visit a sugar plantation or why not hire a car to get off the tourist track and discover the rugged east coast with its spectacular scenery?

Barbadians drive on the left so it’s all very straightforward. Visit Harrisons Cave, one of the islands greatest wonders, or try Ziplining in Jack-in-the-Box Gully – a fantastic way to see the centre of the island.

Whilst the island retains an air of sophistication, there is something to suit

everyone when it comes to accommodation.

For families wanting good accommodation on a budget, the Bougainvillea Resort is a great choice with its relaxed atmosphere and handy kids club. The hotel even offers a baby-sitting service.

Crystal Cove is a very good choice for families looking for a high standard allinclusive option. This beautiful 4* resort has an impressive pool area, lush gardens and Tommy Turtle kids club. If you’re looking for

the very finest accommodation then the 5* Fairmont Royal Pavilion, tucked away on the West coast, can’t fail to impress. Not only does the hotel offer impeccable service and luxurious accommodation, but it is also home to one of the most sought after restaurants on the island.

To find out more about Barbados and other Caribbean holidays, contact Emma Savage at Travel Counsellors on Tel: 0845 058 7554 or email emma.savage@travelcounsellors. com, www.travelcounsellors.co.uk

Champoluc, Skiing with a Difference The traditional Italian Alpine resort of Champoluc sits high in the Ayas Valley close to the point where the borders of Italy, Switzerland and France converge to form some of the Alps’ most impressive mountain scenery. Part of the acclaimed Monterosa ski area and linked the resorts of Gressoney and Alagna, Champoluc nestles at 1600 metres with easy access to the well maintained pistes which rise from 2,000 to 3,200 metres.

Featured by a small number of British tour operators, including one specialist that runs its own British ski school and British-staffed nursery, Champoluc appeals to those looking to escape the crowded pistes of many better known resorts. With over 25 small, family-run hotels to choose from, there is accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, including the delightful 4**** Hotel Breithorn which is just a short stroll from the bottom of the main gondola.

From the moment you enter the spacious lounge and reception with open log fire and antique furniture, you are aware of the clever combination of old and new in this chalet-style hotel – automatic glass doors hidden behind a beautiful old wooden front door, traditional cow bells hanging over a table with daily English and Italian newspapers and a discreet bar with the finest malt whiskies served from behind an antique wooden sideboard. A choice of delightful bedrooms and the best in local cuisine, make the Breithorn a popular choice for those looking for good quality and centrally located accommodation. Whilst the Breithorn is still billed as the ‘best hotel in the resort’, the recently renovated Rascard Frantze and the Hotel La Rouja are giving it a good run for its money and come highly recommended.

Contact: Nick Edwards, Snow Finders www.snowfinders.co.uk, Tel: 01858 466888 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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Activities

If you go down to (Fineshade) woods today...

You’ll find that this varied walk covers beautiful, rolling countryside. It also abounds with wildlife, including deer and the magnificent red kite

Start/finish Forestry Commission’s Top Lodge, Fineshade Woods car park (£3 to park all day).

Walk length 6.1miles or 9.8km Or 5.4miles/8.6km if you take the short cut Time 3 hours Ability Moderate. Includes several hills and 5 stiles Surface Mostly unsurfaced, can get particularly muddy at times.

Map OS Explorer 224 Refreshments Top Lodge: Top Lodge Cafe Kings Cliffe: Cross Keys Inn Kings Cliffe Bakery, open 7am – 12pm Monday to Saturday Freshly baked sausage rolls, pastries, cakes and bread Points of interest Fineshade Priory Now a private house, this former priory was built in the C13th and housed the Austin canons.

Fallow deer Introduced to the UK by the Romans, then later by the Normans, this large deer can come in a variety of colours.

Disused railway line This line opened in 1879 and ran from Peterborough to Rugby, via Market Harborough. It was closed under the Beeching cuts in 1968.

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From the Forestry Commission’s Top Lodge visitor centre courtyard, follow the road back towards the A43 over the railway bridge.

Immediately on the left is the Jurassic Way footpath. Take this across the field, and up into a wood. Follow the path through Mill Wood, and then across a field, noticing Fineshade Priory on your right. Follow the footpath between two fences, over a stile and downhill. By the bridge look left to see a track leading back up hill, almost retracing your route, but not quite!

Follow this up the hill, and go through a gate into Lynn Wood.

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The path is well way-marked through the wood, follow it until you emerge on the other side of the wood. Go straight across the field, keeping an eye out for the fallow deer which can often be seen grazing here. To the right you can see Blatherwycke Lake. At the field edge continue along, keeping the wood to your left. At the corner a way-marker takes you towards a glade in the wood, then twists and turns until you are walking with a fence on your left. Keep going through the wood as you become closer to a disused railway cutting, the former Peterborough to Northampton line.

At the remains of an old bridge the path bears left and follows the railway line for approximately 50m, until turning sharp left at a way-marker on a birch tree. Keep going through fairly open woodland, until you reach a stile at a field edge. Cross over and continue, with the wood on your left, eventually passing a field gate and continuing to a stile which crosses the fence. Go over the stile, now keeping the fence to your right, and make your way to the stile which brings you out on to Wood Lane.

At this point you can turn right into Kings Cliffe for refreshments. You could also visit the historic parish church of All Saints and St James.

3

Otherwise, turn left up Wood Lane. Go through the metal barrier, ignoring the small wooden gate on the left. Curve to the left, then right, behind the buildings where you will see a bridleway signpost. Follow the bridleway until you meet a surfaced road curving to the left.

Follow the path straight on to the bench, where the bridleway carries on but a footpath goes to the right. If you wish to take the shorter walk carry straight on here.

Kings Cliffe Parish Church road bends left and there is a footpath straight ahead. Take this, and follow to another track, where you turn right, briefly rejoining the Jurassic Way for a short downhill section. Turn left onto the Mill Wood Trail.

6

All you need to do now is follow the green Mill Wood Trail way-marker posts which lead you back to the visitor centre, (including down and up two more hills, ensuring you have a very good workout!)

4

Otherwise, follow the footpath down to the field. At the field edge look diagonally left across the field to see a wooden bridge in the hedge, which you should make for. Cross the bridge and another field, entering the wood.

The path emerges on the forest road where you turn left. Continue along to where the

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• garages • garden rooms • orangeries • home offices • conservatories • barns • stables • houses

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Oak is a natural material ever changing in texture and colour adding life and atmosphere wherever it’s used.

Let us help you be convinced that an oak structure is the best investment you can make for both your home and your lifestyle.

Simply call us or visit our new website for further details.

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BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE FURNITURE AND SOFAS

NG I Y TH D B Y ER CE V E DU RE

%

0 4

WINTER SALE

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COMPETION WINNERS

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION RESULTS

Thanks so much to everyone who entered, and there were such a lot to choose from. We were overwhelmed by the response and the incredible local talent. As always, it is a difficult decision but the winner received a unanimous vote...

WINNER: Freddy Angell First place and winner of the three course meal for two at The Blue Ball, Braunston: Freddy Angell from Barrowden, aged 19. Freddy completed his National Diploma in Interactive Media last summer and is currently working whilst on a gap year hoping to study graphics or media at university in 2012. Says Freddy, “Photography has been a hobby since I took part in a photography module in my sixth form BTEC. I passed it and decided I’d buy a camera and give it ago. My best achievement thus far is having four of my photos published in ‘Our Rutland’”

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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SECOND

Second place and winner of photography book ‘Our Rutland’: Anne Pollard, from Langham, Rutland

THIRD

Third place and winner of £5 voucher from Buy the Book, Oakham: Craig Alexander from Ashwell, Rutland.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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110TH IN THE COUNTRY & 2ND IN THE EAST MIDLANDS IN THE SUNDAY TIMES SECONDARY SCHOOLS LEAGUE TABLE

72.1% A* - B GRADES AT A-LEVEL ACADEMIC SIXTH FORM WITH EXTENSIVE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME If you missed our recent Sixth Form Choices Evening and are interested in joining us, please contact Mrs Penny Hawkins for an information pack and/or an informal visit.

SOUTH ROAD BOURNE LINCOLNSHIRE PE10 9JE

E-mail:penny.hawkins@bournegrammar.lincs.sch.uk or telephone 01778 391646

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COMPETION WINNERS

PHOTOGRAPHY

COMPETITION BEST OF THE REST Special mention to very close runners up

Jenny Dutfield

Allan Grey

Rebecca Downey

Mike Dickman

Max Bridgewater

Denis Dalby

John Jones

Lizzie Haines

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JANUARY 2012

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

CARPENTRY SERVICES

JUDITH EWING BA (HONS) RSA BSY (Sp.M)

PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER • Exercise and nutritional advice and management • Dance and Fitness classes • Bride to Be Personal Training • 25 years experience

1st & 2nd Fix Carpentry • Alterations • Flooring Velux Windows • Rotten Window & Door Repairs Attic Conversions • Locks • Partition Walls & Ceilings Commercial & Residential

Tel: 01572 770225 or 07771 866123 www.judithewingfitness.com

Direct: 07805 751208

HAND PAINTED FURNITURE

Email: trademark.carpentry@yahoo.com

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“Brush up your chimney” - AVONDALE SWEEPS COVERING ALL RUTLAND, LEICESTERSHIRE & NORTHAMPTONSHIRE FULLY RECOGNISED CERTIFICATES ISSUED FULLY TRAINED & QUALIFIED TO A HIGH STANDARD NO FUSS – NO MESS

call for a free no obligation quote

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MUSIC SHOP

CURTAINS & BLINDS

Your local Professional L aw n T r e aT m e n T S e r v i c e • weed and moss control • scarification • hollowtine aeration • fertilisation Spring, Summer, autumn & winter treatments for your lawn at a price that doesn’t cost the earth.

For a Free Quotation Call t: 01780 753575 m: 07734 693253 e: andy@lawndoctor.freeserve.co.uk w: www.countrywidelawndoctor.co.uk

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PICTURE FRAMING

Fiona Powell Framing Bespoke Framer Quality Hand Made Curtains and Blinds Complete service from measuring to hanging.

Track fitting available.

Alterations undertaken.

Kingfisher Close, Oakham Julie 01572 757893

Telephone: 01780 765853 or 07913 052159 Email: alternativesstamford@btconnect.com Address: Stamford Hospital site, Ryhall Road, Stamford, PE9 1YA

01572 767238 07960 003028 fmpowell@btinternet.com PREGNANCY ADVICE Pregnant? Need to talk?

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Trading in nearly new curtains over 150 pairs of curtains on show open: tuesday 9.30am – 3.00pm or monday – saturday by appointment

the Hall, Back lane, east Farndon, nr market Harborough. le16 9se Tel: 01858 466671 www.curtainscomplete.co.uk

Telephone: 01780 765853 or 07913 052159 Email: alternativesstamford@btconnect.com Address: Stamford Hospital site, Ryhall Road, Stamford, PE9 1YA

STORAGE

Rutland Self Store

GAS SERVICES

Secure container storage between Stamford & Oakham Short or long term contract • 24 hour access • • Locked compound • • Size 20ft x 8ft •

Chris Clarke Gas Service Engineer

01780 460465 www.rutlandselfstore.co.uk

Mobile: 07979 425262 Telephone: 01572 771309 E-mail: info@rutlandplumbing.co.uk www.rutlandplumbing.co.uk

VIDEO 214114

HEALTH AND FITNESS

CM Clarke 3x1 RL June.indd 1

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Ash pAddock firewood Top quality seasoned and barn stored hardwood logs for sale. Loads mainly consist of ash and sycamore. Logs cut to your requirements.

Nets and bulk loads available

contact James on

07900 695066 for prices.

free local delivery within 20 miles of Melton

• RMHL December January.indd 46

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MARSHALL VOLVO OUTSTANDING SERVICE AS STANDARD. Our highly trained and skilled team looks forward to welcoming you to our state of the art dealership, where we will be on hand to look after your every need.

All our cars are handled with the utmost care and attention as we pride ourselves on offering the best deals on the latest range of New Volvo and piece of mind on quality approved used vehicles.

From the new Volvo range, to Approved used vehicles right through to service and repairs, visit Marshall Volvo and expect nothing less than a first class service as standard.

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Volvo. For life.

MARSHALL VOLVO PETERBOROUGH 7 MALLORY ROAD, BOONGATE, PETERBOROUGH PE1 5AU. TEL: 0844 411 9751 www.marshallweb.co.uk/volvo MARSHALL MOTOR GROUP LTD. REGISTERED OFFICE:- AIRPORT HOUSE, THE AIRPORT, CAMBRIDGE CB5 8RY. ALL CALLS MAY BE RECORDED FOR TRAINING AND QUALITY PURPOSES.

THIS IS MARSHALL JAGUAR

Situated in Peterborough, our dealership is equipped to deal with all your Jaguar needs.

From the exciting new Jaguar range featuring groundbreaking technology and industry firsts, to Approved used vehicles maintained to the standards set by the engineers who built them.

Enjoy all the expertise and knowledge of our Jaguar Academy trained technicians and with a range of exhilarating accessories to enhance the feeling of owning a Jaguar, make sure that you visit Marshall Jaguar Peterborough.

MARSHALL JAGUAR PETERBOROUGH 7 Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough PE1 5AU 0844 334 0635 www.marshall.peterborough.jaguar.co.uk

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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