Aspirational Spring/Summer 2014 Edition 9 by Champions (UK) plc

KEIRA KNIGHTLEY: FROM ENGLISH ROSE TO HOLLYWOOD ICON 10 YEARS OF SOCIAL MEDIA: HOW COMMUNICATION HAS CHANGED CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC: BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO BRANDS

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

Keira Knightley

SPRING/SUMMER 2014

in this edition:

British chic, Swiss excellence: Breitling for Bentley combines the best of both worlds. Style and performance. Luxury and accomplishment. Class and audacity. Power and refinement. Perfectly epitomising this exceptional world, the Bentley B06 chronograph houses a Manufacture Breitling calibre, chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), the highest benchmark in terms of precision and reliability. It is distinguished by its exclusive â&#x20AC;&#x153;30-second chronographâ&#x20AC;? system enabling extremely precise readings of the measured times. A proud alliance between the grand art of British carmaking and the fine Swiss watchmaking tradition.

Leah Marks House, 10-12 Market Street, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE1 6DP Telephone: 0116 255 1233

THE ESSENCE OF BRITAIN Made in Switzerland by BREITLING

BENTLEY B06

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Editor in Chief Matthew Hayes Advertising Manager Sophia Hayes Production Manager Alexandra Buist Features Editor Victoria Marconetto

ASPIRATIONAL

magazine

Dominic Gomersall writes:

Advertising Editor Amelia Benskin Features Writers Christopher Brookes Richard Padmore William Smith Megan Smith Elyssa Fagan Francesca Bonfiglio Stephanie Bird Designers Maddie Smith Kristian Goodeve Jamie Traynor Liam Creek Ewen Lewis Jodie Barker Photography Kristian Goodeve Antonia Doyle Maddie Smith Web Development David Evans Michael Pattinson

Contributors Dominic Gomersall Michelle Dilley James Warne Bob Woods Ian Mattioli Jason Yeomans

Gillian Wesley Simon Fleet Janine Edwards Mick Ventola Chris Darlington Karen Farrar

www.aspirational.uk.com For mailing list and subscription enquiries please visit www.aspirational.uk.com For advertising enquiries please contact: Sophia Hayes on 08453 31 30 31 or email: shayes@championsukplc.com Published By

Champions (UK) plc Barrington House, Leake Road, Costock, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 6XA Tel: 08453 31 30 31 Fax: 08453 31 30 32

At last, the press is continually writing upbeat articles on the economy and 2014 onwards promises to be more rewarding for the national and local community. We have so much to boast about and celebrate in Leicestershire. The recent Leicestershire Business Awards showcased just a small sample of the many successful businesses within our county. I would especially like to congratulate Nick Taylor and Juice Creative winning the Creative Industry Business of the Year as we co-sponsored this award with Aspirational Magazine. It is a great accolade to his business, winning this on their 10th anniversary of starting Juice Creative. Leicestershire sport continues to thrive with this year being the year that the Premiership welcomes back Leicester City as Champions of the Football League Championship. The club has enjoyed a remarkable season with record after record being broken and now deserve their chance at the top table. Congratulations to all those involved with the club. Of course, this success will have a huge effect on the rest of us, as the financial ripple can be felt across the City. There will be numerous opportunities to take advantage of the huge interest that follows the Premiership clubs. In the last edition of Aspirational, I mentioned the possibility that Lumbers may relocate towards the Highcross. Since that article, I have felt a huge local support of our current home. Leah Marks House allows Lumbers to portray an image that no other local jeweller can compare with. As a leader within the community, Lumbers is at the forefront of a new drive to ensure that Market Street becomes the bespoke, upmarket, shopping street of the Midlands. This will be supported by the City Council and will drive investment from the planned development of New Walk to the local area. This should be exciting times for us all. We continue to strive for the best at Lumbers and have extended many of our ranges. Mont Blanc have invested in a new display area allowing us to exhibit many of the beautiful larger leather cases and accessories that they produce. Please do see the gift guide on pages 48 and 49. Our new watch brand addition last year, Hublot, has exceeded all our sales expectations and we are delighted that from this success we will be getting 1st options on many of their limited edition watches – including this year’s FIFA World Cup watch and the Ferrari Limited Edition watches. We have had unparalleled sales success with Breguet watches over the last 2 years….indeed we apparently have been the number 1 independent retailer in Europe. The innovative watches and provenance of this brand is surpassed by no other watch brand and the new Tradition watches are just stunning. We are pleased to have been recently joined by Angela Owen within the sales team. Angela, like me, is a third generation jeweller as her family owned and ran the Cockerton’s jewellery store in Leicester for many years. Angela has a wealth of industry knowledge and is already loving the opportunities of dealing with the widest jewellery collection within the city. We have increased our diamond range extensively this year and I am sure we have something for everyone – from an engagement ring at £500 to the 10 carat oval diamond solitaire at over £100,000! Life seems to go on at speed…..where does the time go? Sometimes I have to pinch myself when I see that my son, Freddie, is 9 years old this summer and beginning to really grow into a special little character. I wish you all a very happy Summer and hope to see you soon.

www.championsukplc.com

Please note: Aspirational magazine is fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors or omissions. Aspirational Magazine can under no circumstances be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the magazine. We cannot be held liable or responsible for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials, photography or any other matter supplied by third parties. The views and opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those 6 of the publisher or indeed Aspirational Magazine or any featured parties.

“People will stare. Make it worth their while.” Harry Winston Pantone 871 Metallic

Pantone C465

letter from the

EDITOR Welcome to another edition of Aspirational Magazine. It gives me great pleasure, as always, to bring you our latest issue packed with a huge variety of fantastic features, our exclusive summer gift guide and details of the East Midlands’ most exciting social events. The Aspirational team has worked as hard as ever to bring you the very best that our region has to offer and we have discovered more fantastic food and drink, the finest hotels and first-class events venues. With the summer upon us, we have selected some of the very best travel options, allowing us to share some fantastic destinations to inspire your future travels. From the Caribbean to Canada, beach break to bear watching - here at Aspirational magazine, we have it covered. On our cover is one of the world’s shining stars, Keira Knightly. A veteran of the silver screen before her thirtieth birthday, she has taken Hollywood blockbusters and independent films by storm, lending her unique charm, beauty and individualism to everything she works on. Our summer wedding guide presents the very best venues, photographers, honeymoon destinations and planning ideas to help make the very most of your special day. With many things to celebrate this summer, we also look to some of the season’s most exciting events. The Farmfoods British Par 3 will soon be here, bringing with it host Tony Jacklin CBE and an array of Ryder Cup legends and we look forward to welcoming cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers back to our shores for his exclusive nationwide tour. Arguably the greatest all-rounder of all time, Sir Garfield’s illustrious career has been covered in this edition; he really is a sporting icon and we wish him the best for the summer season. As ever, we have been visiting some of the region’s very best restaurants to bring you our fine dining guide. With an international mix of culinary flavours and styles, the East Midlands continues to fly the flag for some of the country’s very best food and hospitality. Our business and finance section is, once again, filled with some of the region’s most influential companies. We share our insight into the power of social media for the corporate world and we bring you advice on the housing market, your future financial security and the importance of the right legal advice. Our social pages document some of the region’s most exciting events and we are sure that you will enjoy browsing the fantastic images and discovering more about the many successful charity fundraising events. As always, our online presence continues to expand - make sure you visit www.aspirational.uk.com to discover our regularly updated features and blog posts. Our Facebook and Twitter pages offer daily updates on all things Aspirational and you can sign up online to our monthly e-newsletters to ensure you are kept up to date with the latest news and updates from the East Midlands and beyond. I hope you enjoy our latest edition and from all the team at Aspirational magazine, we wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous summer 2014!

Matthew Hayes Editor in Chief

“History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.” Winston Churchill

LIFE IS A SMILE HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION

20 46

16 BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Keira Knightley .............................. 10

Music in the Midlands .................... 54

Plug Interiors ................................. 70

A New Aspirational World ............... 16

Lumbers Watches............................. 56

Marks Electrical ............................. 72

Wedding Guide ............................... 20

FIFA World Cup 2014 ..................... 58

Ventola Projects and SLM Builders.................................. 74

Archerfield Links ............................ 34

Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship................................. 62

From English rose to Hollywood icon

Aspirational Magazine expands its online offering

Plan your special day and ensure every detail is perfect

World-class luxury, a spa like no other

Royal Westmoreland........................ 38 Own a piece of paradise

Gift Guide ....................................... 46 A hand-picked selection of stunning gifts

Celebrating the sound of our region

Bringing out new and exciting watches

The making of legends – the World Cup heads for Brazil

First-class golf, incredible stars, unbeatable entertainment – the BP3 gears up for its best year yet

The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Invitational .................... 66 Golfing royalty at one of the country’s most iconic courses

Sir Garfield Sobers .......................... 68 The legendary all-rounder returns to the UK

Innovative ideas from Europe’s leading brands

An electrical emporium in the heart of the Midlands

A winning development combination

Bentons .......................................... 76 The most exclusive and luxurious homes in the Midlands

72 126

66 FINE DINING GUIDE

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

SOCIAL AND NETWORKING

Jean-Christophe Novelli .................. 86

Champions (UK) plc ....................... 98

Socialising.................................... 131

Gino’s Pear Tree .............................. 87 Hotel Maiyango/The Lighthouse/ Hambleton Hall .............................. 88 Perkins/Hearts/LMH ....................... 89 Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar & Grill/Chino Latino/The Riverbank ... 90 World Service/Iberico/Opulence Restaurant & Grill .......................... 91 Lace Market Hotel........................... 92

Breathing new life into brands for over a decade

College Court................................ 102 Leicester’s leading conference and events venue

Mattioli Woods plc ........................ 108

Mattioli Woods Dinner Leicester Mercury Sports Awards Lumbers Evening Bentons Wine Tasting

Pensions and wealth management specialists

Masquerade Ball

PMGC .......................................... 112

Porsche Macan Launch

The UK’S fastest growing managed services business

East Midlands Conference Centre .. 120 First-class facilities in picturesque surroundings

10 Years of Social Media ............... 126

A big anniversary for the social media platforms that changed how we communicate forever

Champions Thank you Dinner Leicester Mercury Business Awards Lamborghini Huracán Launch Gino’s Pizza Evening Nottingham Post Business Summit Nottingham Post Business Awards

Bramley’s Brasserie ........................ 94 Alea Casino .................................... 95 Hotel Maiyango .............................. 96

Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Wars, Love Actually, Pride and Prejudice, Atonement; considering she is not yet 30-years-old Keira Knightley’s acting portfolio is incredible! From young English rose to international superstar, Aspirational Magazine looks at a career that has gone from strength to strength and what the future holds for the breathtakingly talented young star.

Actress Keira Knightley attends the Premiere of ‘A Dangerous Method’ during the 55th BFI London Film Festival at Odeon West End on October 24, 2011 in London. Picture by: Simon James / Shutterstock.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

One of the most iconic actresses of the 21st century, Keira Knightley has been dazzling audiences from a young age. Born in London in 1985 to Sharman Macdonald, an award-winning playwright, and Will Knightley, an acclaimed theatre and TV actor, it is not surprising that she followed her parents into the performing world. Keira was ‘single-minded about acting’ from a young age, requesting her first agent when she was just three-years-old, but having to wait until she was six! Early roles in adverts and TV programmes including ITV’s The Bill showed her initial promise before her first major acting role came in the 1999 blockbuster Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. She played Padmé Amidala’s decoy after showing a striking resemblance to another major actress of the modern age, Natalie Portman. Despite being one of the 20th century’s major motion pictures, Knightley spent most of the film disguised and did not get as much recognition as would be expected. Her real breakthrough role however, was just around the corner. The 2002 British comedy Bend It Like Beckham was a surprise hit around the world. Telling the story of a young Asian girl who dreams of playing football for England, the film was celebrated by audiences and critics alike, becoming one of the best loved British films of the 21st century. Grossing £11 million in the UK, the film went on to set the record in India for most number of tickets sold during a single weekend for a foreign movie. Knightley’s performance as tomboy Juliette Paxton was a revelation and directors and filmmakers immediately stood up and took notice.

If Bend It Like Beckham significantly raised Knightley’s profile, her next film launched her to superstardom. The big budget action film Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl became one of the biggest blockbusters of the current age. Incredibly, the film was originally based on a theme park ride in Disneyland and few believed it would become as popular as it did.

In 2008, Keira came second on the Forbes list of highest paid actresses, earning £16 million and becoming the only British actress in the top 20. One of the most recognisable faces in the country, she has also fronted Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle advertising campaign since 2006.

Knightley played the spirited and intelligent Elizabeth Swann who rebels against the constraints of her gender and social rank.

She featured alongside an all-star cast including Orlando Bloom, Johnny Depp and Geoffrey Rush. The swashbuckling adventure story received multiple Academy Award nominations and entered the all-time top 20 list of box office hits. Knightley went on to star in two more Pirates of the Caribbean films in what went on to become one of the most successful film series of all time. After the first Pirates film, Keira Knightley became the new ‘it’ girl and the international press queued up to find out more about the rising star. Despite this,

Knightley has shown her versatility as an actress across a variety of genres including comedy, action, thriller and romance while still managing to carve out a niche in period dramas.

Knightley has always remained a somewhat mysterious figure, reluctant to discuss details of her private life with the press.

I think it does change something, and not for the better. I like watching films when I don’t know anything about the people.”

While other celebrities make as much of their private life public as possible, Knightley takes the opposite approach. She has said: “I hate knowing too much when I’m going to the cinema and watching as a viewer, I don’t want to know that the actor has just gone through a divorce. I don’t want to know that the person is an alcoholic. It just gets in the way of my pleasure of watching the character. Everybody knows absolutely everything, so I wonder whether it suddenly changes what we see.

Her preference of low-key over glitz and glamour was none more apparent than on a warm day in the south of France in mid-2013 when Keira Knightley married James Righton, the singer and keyboardist from the popular band, Klaxons.

One of her most acclaimed roles remains her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennett in the 2005 film Pride and Prejudice which went on to gross $100 million worldwide.

The picturesque Provence village could have been the setting of one of her films and the understated ceremony had just 11 guests; a huge contrast to the extravagant celebrity weddings of many of her contemporaries.

In an iconic role that has been inhabited countless times before, her stunning performance received Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for Best Actress; the third youngest woman to be nominated in the history of the Academy Awards.

Images, clockwise from top left; Keira Knightley attends the Premiere of ‘Anna Karenina’ at ArcLight Hollywood; Keira Knightley poses for the cameras at the Premiere of ‘Seeking a Friend for the End of the World’ at the 2012 Los Angeles Film Festival; Interviewed on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, 2012. Keira Knightley and Jude Law arriving the UK premiere of Anna Karenina at Odeon Leicester Square, London. 05/09/2012 Picture by: Featureflash / Shutterstock.com TORONTO, ON/CANADA - SEPTEMBER 13, 2011: Keira Knightley graces the TIFF red carpet at the screening of “A Dangerous Method” on September 13, 2011 in Toronto. Dan Kosmayer / Shutterstock.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Collaborating again with Pride and Prejudice director Joe Wright, Knightleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success in the period piece genre continued in Atonement. Starring alongside James McAvoy, she was again nominated for a Golden Globe and BAFTA, further cementing her place as both a commercially and critically successful actress. Knightley is a self-confessed workaholic; her drive and determination to excel has kept her at the top of her game for so many years.

Keira is well known for using her profile for philanthropic causes, lending her profile to numerous charities and campaigns including Amnesty International, WaterAid, Comic Relief and Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aid.

Images, clockwise from top left;

She seems to have a unique ability to move between characters, eras and genres effortlessly, playing complicated characters with real emotional depth. Her co-star in Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, Steve Carell celebrated her unique ability to show great strength and vulnerability simultaneously. Rather than making the same film again and again, she has shown her versatility as an actress by starring across a variety of film genres.

Her most recent role in Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, an action-thriller directed by Kenneth Branagh, returned her to big budget blockbusters after a string of more independent films. With a decorated career and bright future ahead, Keira Knightley remains a graceful, elegant and extremely talented star, illuminating red carpets around the world.

Keira Knightley arriving for the London Film Festival Premiere of ‘A Dangerous Method’ at the Odeon West End, London. Picture by: Steve Vas / Featureflash / Shutterstock.com Keira Knightley, Chris Pine at the “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” Los Angeles Premiere at TCL Chinese Theater on January 15, 2014 in Los Angeles, CA. Picture by: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com Keira Knightley at the ‘A Dangerous Method’ UK Gala film premiere at The Mayfair Hotel; Keira Knightley attends Sony Pictures Classic Cocktail Party at Creme Brasserie;

A BOLD NEW

ASPIRATIONAL WORLD The world is changing, no longer are we wholly reliant on printed news; now, the way that information is transmitted is transforming, and we have learned to adapt. The digital age is here and the world is embracing it like never before. At Aspirational Head Quarters, we’ve also learned to acclimatise to the new digital environment.

We’ve identified key ways to improve what we bring you, as readers, to ensure we are providing you with the very best in luxury living. This approach is not only emphasised in our biannual titles, but also digitally on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. We’ve set up key Aspirational social media accounts spanning Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and soon, Instagram, to engage with our readers in an open and conversational forum.

Are you a news junkie, fashion queen or beauty lover? We’ll have all the latest information and products to keep you hooked right throughout the year. The website will also complement the print version, with digital and extended versions of some of the stories in our magazine as well as downloadable imagery from all the hottest events in the East Midlands that we attend. Spot yourself in our online albums from local events and search through all the latest happenings.

We ask you to join us as we bring you the latest news, regular competitions, style alerts, outfits of the week, seasonal hints and tips, as well as all the best and most exclusive offers from key brands in the East Midlands.

Aspirational.uk.com will also contain all the back issues of Aspirational, free for you to flick through with ease, as well as seasonal mini magazines, which encompass key periods of the year. From Mother’s Day through to Halloween, we hope that we will always be able to give you, our readers, something on Aspirational online that inspires, engages and excites you.

With the move to the digital world, Aspirational is proud to announce the launch of our freshly designed new website! The site, available to view now, will be a hub of interesting news from not only the East Midlands, but all over the world. From style, fashion and beauty updates, to travel, technology and culture, as well as lifestyle features, we hope the online experience of the magazine will excite and entertain our readers, just as much as the printed magazine. This new website will be updated on a regular basis, meaning you’ll never be short of your next Aspirational news nugget! The new website also benefits from an extensive gift guide, which will be constantly updated. Stuck for ideas what to get your wife or husband, son or daughter? Check out the Aspirational gift guide for ideas to inspire, with links to buy straight from the internet.

The new website has the same domain as before: www.aspirational.uk.com and will contain:

• • • •

Regular editorial articles Extensive gift guide Luxury product releases Lifestyle articles

• • •

Frequently updated blog

Hints & Tips

Extended articles

• •

Online photo albums from top events

•

Back issues of all past Aspirational magazines

•

Regular competitions/ offers

Seasonal online magazines

Catch up with us on social media:

@Aspirationalmag /AspirationalMagazine 17

The Dorchester LONDON

The Beverly Hills Hotel Coworth Park 45 Park Lane LONDON BEVERLY HILLS ASCOT

Le Meurice Le Meurice PARIS PARIS

Hôtel Plaza Plaza Athénée Athénée Hôtel PARIS PARIS

Hotel di Savoia LePrincipe Richemond MILANA GENEV

HoteldiBel-Air Hotel Principe Savoia LOS ANGELES MILAN

Coworth Hotel EdenPark ASCOT ROME

45 ParkHills LaneHotel The Beverly LONDON BEVERLY HILLS

LeHotel Richemond Bel-Air GENEVA LOS ANGELES

Wedding Guide Getting married is one of the most significant and exciting days of your life. Making that initial decision brings great excitement, yet the fantasy is so often overcome when the reality of planning kicks in. There are hundreds of decisions to be made and so many aspects to cover that it can quickly become a bit of a blur. Aspirational Magazine is here help - we have hand-picked a beautiful selection of luxury products and bespoke services especially for you. Our guide aims to give you a number of ideas to help make your big day as stress-free as possible.

It is clear that the more thought you put into planning your big day, the easier your dreams will become reality. Choosing the ideal venue, somewhere that will forever hold a special place in your heart, is often the best starting point. It forms the backdrop to all of your photos and hosts a glorious day turning into a picturesque night. The best venues have a team of staff to give you as much help as you need, offering easy solutions on how best to use the space and facilities.

Belvoir Castle is a fairytale setting, standing high on a hill overlooking 16,000 acres of woodland and parkland, while Stapleford Park is an exquisite luxury hotel and sporting estate, set in the heart of Leicestershire. A marquee from Mudfords will add flexibility to almost any venue. The bride herself is always the focal point. Finding the perfect wedding dress quite rightly becomes the central consideration, yet it is important the bride looks divine in every way. A bride-to-be pamper session from Femi Health & Beauty ensures a happy, healthy glow and is perfect before the big day. The finishing touches are often made by your jewellery, complementing your outfit and adding more elegance. One of the most symbolic elements of the day is the wedding ring and Lumbers of Leicester have an astounding catalogue. Your look will be finessed by an evocative ring, one which represents never-ending love and speaks of the circles of life and fertility.

After all the preparation and excitement of your dream day, you deserve to get away and make the most of some extended private time with your beloved. Again, the choices you make are key and North America Travel Service have the experience, not only to put together a tailor-made honeymoon package, their staff have extensive knowledge of Canada and USA and whether you are looking to relax on a beach, hike in the Rockies or drive across the continent, they will provide you with the absolute best.

We hope our wedding section leads you to some inspired choices and that your special day is unforgettable, just as you always dreamt it!

LEAH MARKS HOUSE, 10-12 MARKET STREET LEICESTER, LE1 6DP TELEPHONE 0116 255 1233

WWW.LUMBERS.CO.UK

An architectural gem on the borders of rural Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, Belvoir Castle is one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most atmospheric buildings, making it the ideal location for a wide range of events.

www.belvoircastle.com The castle offers an atmospheric and prestigious location for all of your business needs and celebrations; including conferences, private parties and weddings. The Ballroom and State Dining Room can accommodate up to 120 delegates with a choice of smaller rooms also available.

Larger parties can be accommodated at the Lakeside in a marquee; situated at the heart of the Belvoir estate overlooking its beautiful lakes and surrounded by a landscape of trees and grassland, with a dramatic view of the Castle on the skyline. The marquee can be adapted to seat between 100-400 guests and is available during the Spring and Summer months.

Guests are always welcome to make a night of it and we have 14 beautiful and historic bedrooms that can sometimes be hired on an exclusive basis. We also have arrangements with several other local hotels to accommodate larger parties. At Belvoir Castle, each event is bespoke and tailored to the needs of our client, ensuring a successful event. The dedication of the events team and the sheer unrivalled beauty of the castle and grounds make it one of the most iconic destinations in the country.

For more information about private events, weddings or corporate days, please contact Helen Himmons Tel: 01476 871 031 or email: hhimmons@belvoircastle.com

SHOW YOUR BEST SIDE Ranked among Britain’s most respected photographers and with Royal commissions under his belt, Martin Neeves has built up an eclectic body of work over the years. His experience bridges the divide between the commercial and the social, enabling you to present your best side to the world.

With 27 years’ experience of professional photography and videography, Martin rightly describes himself as a ‘multi-specialist’. His work has explored the broad canvas of contemporary life and that depth, paired with the attitude of a perfectionist, enables him to turn the mundane into something truly special, for example, his recent successful polythene bags and concrete assignments. Martin’s photos have featured in several national publications such as the Financial Times, the Daily Mail and Country Life and they breathe life into more corporate websites and brochures than he would care to mention. His film-making finesse is applied to ever wider ends, whether that is by a blue-chip in its annual reporting or by a small start-up looking to increase its online visibility. Video is a growing side of Martin’s business as many clients appreciate the convenience of using him to do both stills and video. As a mark of his quality Martin has twice been commissioned to photograph the Queen at home inside Buckingham Palace. Leading UK business directory, Free Index, currently ranks him 3rd in 23

the country out of over 3,300 other photographers. That this ranking is based on client feedback is a great source of pride for Martin, whose services are rated at a remarkable average of 4.8 out of 5. Being a keen aviator (Martin holds a private pilot’s licence), he has branched out into aerial photography and can combine that element with handsome, ground-based architectural shots that really bring buildings to life. His reportage style of wedding photography adds a candid informality and he is adept at capturing unique, individual character traits in the portrait work he carries out for families and corporations. No matter what he is doing Martin applies the very same exacting standards. From the outset, his primary focus is on his clients’ goals and requirements, tailoring from there a bespoke approach to each assignment. Wedding guests have been known to be utterly oblivious to his presence as he catches natural shots throughout the day, and many a corporate client has testified to his efficiency and no-fuss nature. Martin is a pleasure to have around.

“Martin is an outstanding professional photographer and videographer. He is extremely thorough in his preparation and execution, as well as in the editing process, resulting in brilliant photos and video. He’s really friendly to work with and makes a special effort to understand the client brief and make expert suggestions.” - Stuart Brooks, Blackbird Communications

For more information about Martin Neeves, please visit www.martinneeves.com or call 07973 638 591

Femi Health & Beauty Anti-ageing results without the surgery: Try the Carita Cinetic Lift Expert exclusively at Femi Health & Beauty

Whatever your age or situation, sometimes we all could do with losing a few years from our faces. Whether it’s those wedding photos you are dreading or the bikini snaps on holiday, we all want to look younger and fresher. However, cosmetic surgery can seem like an extreme solution; invasive, time-consuming and expensive, with uncertain but permanent results. Now specialist Parisian treatment brand Carita has introduced its Cinetic Lift Expert, a non-invasive facial treatment delivered over a number of appointments to deliver significant anti-ageing results, exclusive in Leicestershire to Femi Health & Beauty. Using a combination of technologies, including micro-currents, ultrasound and LED, the painless treatment is delivered over a series of one and a half hour sessions, which gradually increase in intensity and effect. The results however, speak for themselves. With a reduction in crow’s feet of 31% and of lines by 26%, the treatment not only reduces the appearance of ageing but promotes skin health as well, with a reported increase in skin radiance by 23%. Femi Health & Beauty in Leicester city centre is the only salon in the county (and one of only 23 nationwide) licensed to perform the Carita Cinetic Lift Expert. With a luxurious salon, conveniently located by Highcross Shopping Centre, Femi Health & Beauty is the ideal location to experience this relaxing treatment. With private or dual treatment rooms plus relaxation areas to wind down and chill out, Femi is also a brilliant place to visit after a bit of shopping or lunch, with friends or on your own.

Awarded Decléor’s National Salon of the Year 2013 An award-winning salon, Femi uses only Decléor beauty products for its skincare treatments and Jessica for nails. The salon offers a full range of beauty, grooming and pampering services including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Femi Health & Beauty 60 Highcross Street | Leicester | LE1 4NN | Telephone 0116 253 2393 Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm

www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk /FemiHealthandBeauty

/Femibeautyleics

Unique oval cut diamond 9.08 carats

LEAH MARKS HOUSE, 10-12 MARKET STREET LEICESTER, LE1 6DP TELEPHONE 0116 255 1233

WWW.LUMBERS.CO.UK

Enhance HAIR & SKIN CENTRE

The centre also offers:

ENDERMOLOGIE is an effective and non-invasive technique which: n Removes cellulite n Lose inches (almost 2 dress sizes) n Encourages renewal of collagen

n Tightens loose skin & muscles n Promotes relaxation n Promotes wellbeing

Endermologie treatment can treat cellulite in the hips, stomach, buttocks, inner & outer thigh area as well as post liposuction surgery. It can treat cellulite in the inner & outer arm areas. The treatment can improve muscle tone in the face as well as reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Following abdominoplasty surgery, Endermologie treatment can improve the elasticity & muscle tone of the skin and reduce scarring. A major advantage of Endermologie treatment is its ability to precisely target and treat only the areas that are a problem - resistant cellulite dimples can be smoothed away. As for the resculpting action of Endermologie treatment, it can redefine and uplift a shapeless buttock - so you’ll not only have dimple-free skin, you’ll also have a perfect figure : slim down fat cells, smooth cellulite, firm the skin, resculpt the figure. After six thirty-five minute sessions you will see visible results on your figure, losing fat where

n Laser hair removal n Acne scarring treatment n Skin imperfections n Clogged pores n Facial & leg vein removal n Pigmentation n Ionic Dark-Eye Treatment n Stretch marks n Male hair loss n Female hair loss n Thinning hair n Hair replacement n Re-bonds

you wanted to.

Post lipo: £70/session - 35 mins - course 10 sessions Cellulite: £65/session - 35 mins - course 10 sessions Muscle Tone & Wrinkles: £60/session - 35 mins - course 10 sessions

AT LAST the no-needle alternative to BOTOX Meso-Btox is an effective and affordable, non-invasive treatment for both male & female skin and is the needle-free alternative to botox. n n n n

A needle-free alternative to botox Non-invasive Pain free Effective results

The treatment cost is £75 per session, however, a course of treatments is always recommended and a 20% discount is offered to readers of Aspirational Magazine on presentation of the voucher below.

Botox injections for cosmetic purposes are designed to decrease deep furrows and lines on the forehead and around the face. Having recently launched a new Cryoderm System that incorporates 5 treatments into 1, we also offer no needle mesotherapy. This needle-free version uses ultra-sonic technology to push forward various formulas such as Meso-Btox and meso-hydrafill (a filler) deep into the dermal layers of the skin. Botox contains Argirline, a non-toxic safer and milder form alternative to Botulinum Toxin (used in botox injections) but have similar results in reducing expression lines. There is no paralysis of the facial muscles, but they do become more relaxed and the skin becomes tighter. This treatment is effective as it aids the infusion of the product into the dermal layers of the skin, much deeper than standard galvanic systems.

“

Donna Hayes It’s great to know that I can look and feel good without having to go through any pain. Really worth the money and the service was great too! Sarah Carter At last a safe no needle effect to botox treatment. Lines and wrinkles are not noticeable anymore, great work Tina. Thank you so much.

This voucher entitles the reader of ASPIRATIONAL magazine to a 20% discount off either a single treatment or a course of treatments for both Endermologie & Mesotherapy Treatment. TERMS & CONDITIONS: 1 voucher per reader, per treatment/course of treatments. Valid until 31st August 2014. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers.

”

Enhance Hair and Skin Centre Wellington Street • Leicester • LE1 6HB Mobile: 07828 684 879 Email: tinachauhanuk@yahoo.co.uk

www.hairandskincentre.co.uk

Enhance HAIR & SKIN CENTRE

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

THAT SHOULD

COVER IT! Whether you are hosting an intimate family party, arranging a corporate function or organising a fashion show Mudford Marquees is happy to oblige your needs. The company has been providing shelter for every imaginable event and every guest conceivable, including celebrities and royalty, for over 178 years. Their commitment to attentive bespoke and efficient service has earned them their fantastic reputation for delivering excellence in the UK.

specialist crew will erect a marquee on a range of surfaces in countless locations. As a result, from nationally known sports teams to media companies, Mudford boast a huge selection of high profile corporations as their clients. These clients call upon the marquee specialists for their conferences, Christmas functions and award ceremonies in order to create a profound and lasting impression on their guests.

With a wealth of experience behind the company, its specialist crew know exactly what the customer wants- a uniquely tailored experience combining their client’s requirements with the practical knowledge of marquee experts; this creates the perfect environment for a successful event.

Numerous county and agricultural shows have Mudford Marquees to thank for their attractive and practical storage, display and retail solutions as well as their floor coverings, trestle tables and furnishings. Mudford go the extra mile to satisfy customer needs; which is why they now have a number of “extra” finishing touches available.

Mudford Marquees frequently provide structures for house parties, giving customers the opportunity to transform their gardens into all manner of opulent settings. From night clubs to tropical rainforests to Las Vegas casinos to any other theme imaginable Mudford will cater their service to your every event need. Alternatively, for the larger party, Mudford can build frame extensions on homes to create extra space. As a result of the complete freedom they offer customers Mudford Marquees are extremely popular with wedding planners. Mudford understands that the special day belongs to the happy couple, so they readily submit control over layout, design and timing to ensure bride, groom and guests have the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable day. Their reputation for reliability and willingness to welcome the challenge of awkward spaces and tight corners makes Mudford a favourite amongst corporate event organisers. Proving their flexibility Mudford’s

George Mudford & Sons Ltd. Aurillac Way, Hallcroft Industrial Estate Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7PX

Telephone: 01777 703489 Email: info@mudfordmarquees.co.uk Or visit www.mudfordmarquees.co.uk

The additional services they now provide include a bespoke interior design option which brings venues to life, especially when combined with their range of furniture and furnishings. In just a few short hours Mudford can transform an empty space into a coordinated and stylish scene. They will make dreams a reality with their creative use of impact sails, themed backdrops, lighting and plush interior linings. As well as promising to provide a tasteful setting with charming interiors in virtually any location, Mudford tackles the obvious downfall of outdoor events with success and practicality. The eternal outside toilet dilemma is swiftly resolved with Mudford Marquees’ premier hygiene facilities. Certainly not typical examples of portable toilets, these facilities could easily exist within a five star hotel or restaurant. With their impressive history it’s difficult to see how Mudford Marquees will ever be anything less than industry leaders. With its continuous expansion, adaptable nature and apparent dedication to customer satisfaction this innovative company is certainly one to watch.

Official supplier to Champions (UK) plc

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

DISCOVER THE UNDISCOVERED IN YUKON, CANADA When you consider Canada, a plethora of iconic images come to mind. Perhaps foremost are its majestic mountains and emerald green lakes, but consider for a moment experiencing these beautiful vistas away from the bustling tourist trails and combining them with historic ‘gold rush’ locations, the ethereal display of the Northern Lights and an unimaginable array of wildlife. Canada’s Yukon territory is an unspoilt land of breath-taking proportion and a destination of unmistakable beauty.

Sitting in the northwest corner of Canada, adjacent to the US state of Alaska, Yukon is one of North America’s most impressive wilderness destinations. If you have an adventurer’s spirit, a love of nature and a passion for exploration, Yukon should be at the top of your holiday destination list. It is not a choice for the faint-hearted, but it is a voyage of discovery with very rich rewards. Without doubt, a self-drive itinerary achieves the most from any holiday to Yukon, allowing you to combine scenic journeys along the legendary Alaska, Top of the World, Klondike and Dempster Highways with historic communities, cultural attractions and picture-postcard destinations. Yukon can be visited year-round, although its remote location and harsh winters encourage all but the hardy to travel in the warmer months of May through September. 30

The Wilderness is Waiting A staggering 80% of Yukon is pristine wilderness. It’s impressive that this Canadian territory is home to Mount Logan, Canada’s highest mountain, as well as Kluane National Park, which is one of the world’s largest non-polar icefields, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but these landmarks represent just the start of its overall attraction. Hiking and biking are everyday pursuits when exploring the iconic wilderness parks of Kluane, Tombstone, Herschel Island, Chilkoot, Ivvavik and Fishing Branch. The famous Alsek, Tatchenshini, Snake, Wind, Firth and Yukon rivers in addition to countless crystal clear lakes provide for leisurely days kayaking, sailing or canoeing, not to mention some quite legendary fishing believed by many to be the best in the world.

Nature’s Magical Show There are very few natural wonders which create the spine-tingling feeling and magical awe you encounter when witnessing Aurora Borealis. Also known as the Northern Lights, the dense dark night skies created by Yukon’s remote setting, provide the perfect conditions for some of the most dramatic undulating ribbons of green, blue and red light. Although dependent on weather conditions and cloud cover, the best chance of dramatic aurora viewing is between autumn and spring.

Don’t Miss…

•

Carcross Desert – The smallest desert in the world at just 642 acres, 10,000 years ago this was the bottom of a large glacial lake! Carcross is home to Yukon’s oldest store as well as being the burial place of the three prospectors who started the Klondike Gold Rush.

•

Emerald Lake – Located just 35 minutes from Whitehorse, Emerald Lake’s shimmering turquoise waters draw visitors from across the world. Unsurprisingly the lake holds the accolade of Yukon’s most photographed natural feature.

Unless you have an infinite length of time to spend in Yukon, it’s impossible to experience everything, so here are a few of our favourite things you might want to include in your itinerary: •

White Pass and Yukon Route – This vintage rail journey follows tracks constructed in 1901 on a spell-binding adventure. Climbing almost 3,000 feet in just 20 miles and featuring cliff-hanging turns, historic tunnels and numerous bridges, it boasts views which simply cannot be witnessed any other way.

•

Dog Sledding – A vital part of Yukon’s heritage and ultimately its survival, was the use of husky dogs for transportation. Today the tradition is kept alive by Yukon Quest, a gruelling two week, 1,000 mile annual race across the Yukon and Alaska. Muktuk Dog Kennels, home to over 60 dogs, offers dog sled journeys in winter and dog walking tours in warmer months.

•

Diamond Tooth Gerties – Located in Dawson City, this old-west style gambling hall is absolutely bursting with character. Enjoy on-stage live acts and historic-style gaming which transports you back to a bygone era.

Wild about Wildlife

Join the Gold Rush

The statistics are quite staggering! Roughly the size of France, Yukon has a tiny population of just 34,000 people, the majority of whom are concentrated around the largest city of Whitehorse. Compare this to its non-human counterparts: 160,000 caribou, 70,000 moose, 22,000 mountain sheep, 7,000 grizzly bears, 10,000 black bears and over 250 species of birds, it brings into perspective how sensational it is for wildlife watching. Home to three national parks, six territorial parks and four Canadian Heritage Rivers, Yukon’s unique geographic landscape and varied eco-systems allow its wildlife to thrive with little threat. All three North American bears: Black, Grizzly and Polar, reside in Yukon. In fact this is the most stable Grizzly habitat in North America and home to 30% of the continent’s population. The thick crops of berries and seasonal salmon runs provide the perfect feeding preparation for their long winter hibernation.

Of course, the Gold Rush is synonymous with Yukon. It is embedded in its history and infuses every Yukoner’s life, even today. The Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 drew settlers from across the continent, eager to enjoy the extravagances afforded by the golden bounty which had initially been found in Bonanza Creek near Dawson City in 1896. Today this authentic frontier town remains loyal to its historic routes, with its wild-west style store fronts painted in vivid hues, a plethora of heritage sites and multi-cultural attractions. Using Dawson City as a base, visitors can take a step back in time and try their luck goldpanning at Claim 33 (a fun way to discover just how difficult the easy looking process was!), before visiting Dredge No. 4 which showcases the transition from manual panning to machine searching. The gold rush inevitably created heroes and villains, winners and losers and a whole host of entertaining tales and fables which are still shared today.

Silver Trail Explorer

This 14 day fly drive itinerary encompasses many of Yukon’s exceptional locations. It is suitable for those who are looking to see the sights and visit historical attractions, as well as those who want a more adventurous experience. Including flights from London to Whitehorse (regional UK connections also available), 13 nights accommodation and 4 wheel drive car rental, prices start at £3,299 per person, based on two adults sharing.

Over 40 years’ experience creating tailor-made holidays across the whole of the USA and Canada. With North America Travel Service your holiday couldn’t be in safer hands. North America Travel Service, 26 Wheelergate, Nottingham NG1 2ND

Tel: 0115 948 4869 Email: nottingham@nats-uk.com www.northamericatravelservice.co.uk LONDON–MANCHESTER–LEEDS–NOT TINGHAM–BARNSLEY–EDINBURGH

Country Club Membership at Stapleford Park B E PA RT O F S O M E T H I N G S P E C I A L

Here at Stapleford Park Country House Hotel and Sporting Estate our members enjoy a real home from home in the country. To some members itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a haven, a space remote from busy life, somewhere to relax, restore calm, a familiar escape. Membership has other privileges too, including special rates on accommodation in the House, food and drinks in the dining rooms, as well as spa treatments and golf tuition.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N :

please call us on 01572 787055 or email membership@stapleford.co.uk Stapleford Park Country House Hotel & Sporting Estate, Stapleford, Nr. Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 2EF

Corporate Membership at Stapleford Park

Academy Golf Membership at Stapleford Park Enjoy Golf Membership at Stapleford Park with unlimited use of the golf course, a 6,944 yard par 73 championship level course designed by Donald Steel. Benefits include:

To make life easy for you and your business we have devised a Corporate Membership package that will facilitate you, your team and your clients to benefit from the use of the Golf and Lifestyle facilities at Stapleford Park, all year round. Each bearer card provides access to the Golf Academy and the Lifestyle Club and can be used once per day, either by yourself and colleagues, or you can choose to offer it to any of your clients, partners, or potential customers. Twelve complimentary green fees per year, per bearer card are also included when booking a corporate golf day. F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N :

please call us on 01572 787055 or email membership@stapleford.co.uk

• 1 hour free golf lesson with the Stapleford Park PGA Golf Pro • Unlimited access to the golf course • Access to all golf competitions, including Club Championships • Includes EGU and L&RGU subscriptions • Official EGU handicap • 10% discount on food & beverage in The Pavilion Restaurant • Member’s guest rate of £25 for 18 holes, or £15 for 9 holes

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N :

please call us on 01572 787044 or email clubs@stapleford.co.uk

“It’s the whole set up here that attracted me to Stapleford Park. I can’t think of anywhere more relaxing to come, to get away from the pressures of everyday life on the tour” - J U S T I N RO S E , G O L F E R

Telephone: +44 (0) 1572 787000 | Fax: +44 (0) 1572 787001 | Email: sales@stapleford.co.uk | www.staplefordpark.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

The UK’s most exciting

luxury spa

retreat

In 2012 the UK’s most exciting luxury spa retreat opened at Archerfield House in Scotland. Hidden away like a precious jewel, just a 30 minute drive from Edinburgh, amidst the magnificent 550 acres of Grade I listed Archerfield House and world renowned Archerfield Links Golf Club, lies the UK’s most exciting new luxury retreat, Fletcher’s Cottage Spa.

Visited by some of the top beauty press and with fantastic reviews including Vogue and The Sunday Times, the spa at Archerfield has already cemented itself as one of the top 10 spas to visit in Europe. The spa features twelve uniquely styled, single and dual treatment rooms, including a healing Himalayan Salt Room and two intimate and private standalone wooden bath huts where your personal spa butler will be on hand. The world’s finest and purest natural luxury products have been chosen to deliver the ultimate wellbeing experience. Guests are able to enjoy an array of nurturing therapeutic body and facial treatments from Spiezia Organics; detoxing seaweed scrubs, wraps, baths and massage from Voya; whilst Aromatherapy Associates treatments harness the natural power of plant extracts to improve your physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. Guests can also indulge in a series of therapeutic experiences including; purifying Rasul Mud Cure Room, a Marine Steam Room and a Herb Aroma Sauna for deep detoxification and relaxation.

Guests visiting Fletcher’s Cottage Spa at Archerfield House can choose from a selection of accommodation including luxury rustic three or four bedroom lodges, the stunning pavilion suites or they can relax in the sumptuous luxury of Archerfield House itself; a fifteen double bedroom 17th Century Mansion House available to hire exclusively for you and your guests. Why not escape to Archerfield in 2014 and see for yourself what everyone is talking about? You can relax in one of the luxurious pavilion suites, which are available for just £225 per night, including in-room larder and breakfast in the Clubhouse. The retreat also boasts two superb David J. Russell designed 18 hole golf courses, a clubhouse and restaurant where guests can relax in an environment free from usual clubhouse etiquette and make themselves at home. To book please call our Reservations Team quoting ‘Aspirational Escape’ on 01620 897 050 or email res@archerfieldhouse.com.

For more information please visit www.archerfieldhouse.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Leading independent travel agency Millington Travel has expanded across Leicestershire, opening new branches around the county and improving their existing stores with the help of Ventola Projects Ltd. Both companies have enjoyed a strong working relationship for more than five years and used their combined expertise to update the three original branches of Millington Travel, and create two new branches in Syston and Lutterworth. For over 40 years, Millington Travel has been proud to stand out from the average travel agency. Providing unbiased advice and recommendations to their clientele of independent travellers, they provide 5-star holiday packages without the price tag. Millington’s expert staff are widely travelled and knowledgeable about a variety of destinations, using their years of experience to provide bespoke holiday packages for their clients. Millington Travel also operates a completely separate Business Travel department and are one of the leading business travel service providers in the East Midlands. They are proud of the lasting relationships they build with their clients, founded upon their attention to detail and

understanding their customers’ needs. Each of the branches has new foreign currency bureaus which offer the very best exchange rates available.

One of Ventola Project’s primary concerns is to ensure

Millington Travel take a majority of their bookings in-store so they are able to provide a personalised service and avoid any confusion and disappointment which can be caused by online travel agencies. In the past, countless people have suffered when travel agencies and Tour Operators have collapsed without warning, however, customers using Millington Travel have the peace of mind that they are ABTA and ATOL protected, which gives 100% financial protection on their clients travel arrangements.

each branch of Millington Travel.

In 2010, Millington Travel opened its new Head office in Market Street (Leicester city centre) with further expansion in Syston and Lutterworth during 2013. Millington Travel Co-Directors Nigel Armitage and Nick Bland enlisted the help of Mick Ventola, owner of Ventola Projects, to manage the project including the refit, design, electrical installation, heating and alarm systems of the new branches.

Millington Travel has trusted Ventola Projects for over

Five branches located at: Humberstone Road • Market Street • Halford Street Syston • Lutterworth

Tel: 0116 2917777 www.millingtontravel.com

Nigel Armitage, MD

Mick Ventola, MD

the highest level of energy efficiency possible on every project they embark upon and this was a high priority in

Ventola Projects thrive on a reputation of high quality craftsmanship and deadline delivery which is why such a wide spectrum of clients trust them to manage projects both large and small. With a team of specialists who cater for small to high profile customers, Ventola Projects ensure that clients come back again and again whenever they need a company that will deliver, problem solve and ensure minimal disruption to their business.

five years and are delighted with the results every time. The partnership of Millington Travel and Ventola Projects has provided long-term benefits for both businesses, as well as ensuring customers are provided with an even higher level of service in a fantastic first-class environment.

Ventola Projects Ltd Brookfield, 190a Cropston Road, Anstey, Leicester, LE7 7BN Phone: 07770 227537 or 0116 2340760 E-mail: info@ventola.co.uk www.ventola.co.uk

B A R B A D O S

Own a Piece of Paradise Live in the lap of luxury at Royal Westmoreland, the most sought-after address in Barbados

Award Winning Luxury Villas $1.2 to $5m (USD) Discover complete peace, privacy and the luxurious lifestyle dreams are made of within our lush 750 acre gated community. Your very own piece of paradise where award winning golf, beach club, elite concierge, spa and tennis are yours to enjoy.

Barbados (246) 422 4653 UK +44 (0)1524 782649 www.royalwestmoreland.com 39

OUR BARBADOS Presenting an extensive range of holiday rental properties in all price ranges, with personalised on-island service. We live here and we know Barbados. Choose from well-appointed apartments and beachfront villas to luxurious penthouses and world-class private estates. Some are fully staffed and all well equipped with everything required for a relaxing and truly enjoyable stay.

Daily commute

NOW OFFERING DISCOUNTED SUMMER RATES Allow us to arrange your airport transfers, car hire, restaurant reservations, or organise events and activities for you. Enjoy a private catamaran charter, deep sea fishing, learn to surf, scuba dive or visit the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many interesting and historic attractions. Our Concierge and Trip Planning services are complimentary. BarbadosBarbados.com unlocks the secret to the very best Barbados experience. We look forward to welcoming you to our island home where summer never ends.

Understated oppulence

Romantic escape

Beachfront luxury

Golfing holiday

For more information, please visit

www.barbadosbarbados.com Dining on the water

www.facebook.com/BarbadosBarbados

Casual elegance

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

S ’ N I L L MU L L I R G BAR &

In the summer of 2013, new proprietors Rory Rodger and Jason Hyndman took Mullins Beach Bar & Grill back to its roots. Once known as the archetypal, laid back Barbadian beach bar, the venue needed a breath of fresh air until Rory and Jason made it their mission to revisit its founding principles. The pair brought back the free and easy atmosphere that characterised the legendary bar’s earliest incarnation and then set about raising the bar. With the warmth of the day tempered by a cool Caribbean Sea breeze, Mullins Beach Bar is now the perfect place to kick back and relax. Bringing with them over a decade’s experience running Barbados’ premier restaurant, The Lone Star, Rory and Jason cooked up a menu to match the mood. Cooked from fresh, straight through from 11.00am to 7.00pm each day, traditional West Indian influences and Creole themes run throughout and there is an incredible variety of seafood, fish, chicken and steak to be had from the grill. The handmade burgers and hand-cut chips are prepared with the same care and attention you will find in the service and there is forever an old favourite popping up on the specials blackboard. Of course, things hot up at the weekends. DJ Eddie the Salsa Man gets Saturday nights rocking and on Sundays, Mootown, a local band, covers everything from the blues to psychedelic dub and reggae. If that is not enough of a step back in time, take a look at your bill: even the prices are retro!

Mullins Bay, St. Peter, Barbados, W.I. Tel: +1 246-422-2044

MAHI MAHI SUITE TO B AG O L U X U R Y H O L I D AY A C C O M M O D AT I O N

AN IDYLLIC

BEACHSIDE CARIBBEAN RETREAT A luxurious Caribbean paradise offering an ultimate retreat for honeymooners, families, or up to three couples, the luxuriously furnished secure Mahi Mahi Suite sits on one of the most romantic beachside locations in the world. Nestled in its own private gardens on the warm sands of the extensive Grafton Beach, the first floor corner apartment offers breathtaking views and sunsets over the emerald waters of Stonehaven Bay. From enjoying breakfast on the elegant balcony to an afternoon’s rest in the sumptuous suite’s décor, the apartment is a delightful Caribbean Eden that you’ll never want to leave. You can swim, snorkel, boogie-board, stroll on the beach, or relax with a book by the garden pool. For a romantic lunch or dinner, renowned restaurants and cafés such as the famous Seahorse Inn and Fish Pot Restaurant are just minutes walk away. Watching the birds feeding as the sun rises over the Grafton Caledonia Bird Sanctuary or the occasional visiting nocturnal turtle are magical experiences, uniquely Tobago. It is also the perfect place from which to explore the stunning natural beauty and wildlife of the rainforest and its scenic coastline, or enjoy other Caribbean specialities like the Sunday school food-fair at Buccoo Reef with steelband accompaniment. Free airport transfers, welcome pack, maid service, full air conditioning, and wifi are provided. For more information about the Mahi Mahi Suite, prices, availability and booking please visit:

TobagoBeachApartment.com For an independent review go to www.mytobago.info/reviews/mahi_mahi_suite.php

UK contact information:

MahiMahi@ TobagoBeachApartment.com Telephone: 07544 051 991 Email:

Kenilworth Road, Knowle B93 0JA Telephone 0 1 5 6 4 7 7 9 4 9 1

Fashion-Themed CafĂŠ & Boutique

Experience something

special! Delicious Home Cooked Food

Breakfast, Lunch and Daily Specials Afternoon Entertainment and Evening Events Traditional Afternoon Tea Freshly Baked Cakes from the Trolley Licensed Premises Fashion Shows Victorian Arcade-style Bridal Shop

and more! catwalk-cafe.co.uk gillianwesley.co.uk

Washington, DC is often described as America’s ultimate hometown, with a unique personality and eclectic buzz of characterful districts. The city extends the warmest of welcomes to its international visitors who flock to enjoy world-class museums and monuments, unique neighborhoods, top-rated restaurants, gorgeous parks and gardens and endless performing arts options. Where else in the world can you visit with a 19-foot President Lincoln, read the real U.S. Constitution, see Dorothy’s ruby red slippers and admire internationally acclaimed art?

Washington DC doubles as a gateway to the Capital Region USA, creating a multi-sensual holiday destination. Leave the bright lights of the capital, follow a scenic byway across nearby Virginia and Maryland and discover the charms of the Chesapeake Bay or the quiet solitude of Shenandoah National Park, two of America’s greatest natural wonders. En route, the quaint small towns of Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Frederick and Annapolis will surprise and delight you. History buffs will marvel at the region’s collection of historic attractions and Civil War driving trails, while those with a foodie focus can enjoy farm to table cuisine perfectly paired with a fresh local wine.

WASHINGTON, DC KNOWN FOR: World-famous monuments, renowned museums, eclectic neighbourhoods, a booming food scene, diverse entertainment and nightlife. KEY NEIGHBOURHOODS: Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Penn Quarter, Chinatown, U Street. MOST RELAXING ACTIVITIES: Take a leisurely stroll along the National Mall and you’ll discover the major monuments and memorials. Soak in the sun with a paddleboat ride in the Tidal Basin, lounge in one of many parks and gardens, or explore the bustling Georgetown waterfront.

ACTIVE PURSUITS: Run or bike the trails throughout the city. Rock Creek Park has an 11-mile route and the Capital Crescent Trail follows a former railroad track along the Potomac River. Kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding and ice skating are also popular. FUN FACT: The Library of Congress has 535 miles of bookshelves.

MARYLAND KNOWN FOR: The Chesapeake Bay, beaches, boating, outdoor recreation, maritime heritage, cosmopolitan culture, charming small towns and fresh seafood. KEY CITIES: Annapolis (capital city), Baltimore, (largest city), Hagerstown, Frederick, Ocean City. MOST RELAXING ACTIVITIES: Relaxing comes naturally in the state’s waterfront communities. Whether it’s a stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk, a day exploring City Dock in downtown Annapolis, a sailing trip on the Chesapeake Bay or waterfront dining on the Eastern Shore or Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, enjoying the water is a favourite way to unwind.

ALL-AMERICAN FUN: Enjoy the sound of the crowds cheering, the taste of hot dogs and the sight of the Orioles rounding the bases at Camden Yards, a baseball stadium designed to evoke the game’s heritage. ACTIVE PURSUITS: Bike at Patapsco Valley State Park and ski at Wisp Resort. Adrenaline junkies love the Adventure Sports Center International, the only mountaintop whitewater circulating course and home to the 2014 ICF World Canoe Championships. FUN FACT: Maryland features more than 4,000 miles of shoreline.

VIRGINIA KNOWN FOR: The grand estates of former presidents, Colonial Williamsburg, Civil War history, the Blue Ridge Mountains, outdoor recreation, beaches and wine country KEY CITIES: Richmond (capital city), Virginia Beach (largest city), Norfolk, Lynchburg, Alexandria MOST RELAXING ACTIVITIES: Virginia puts your senses on vacation with sweeping mountain vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, sips of local Merlot after a winery tour, tastes of Rappahannock oysters and the sound of waves rolling onshore at Virginia Beach.

Experience 18th-century life in Williamsburg, and get a glimpse into America’s origins at the first English colony, Jamestown and Yorktown, where the decisive battle of the American Revolution was won. ACTIVE PURSUITS: Bike the Mount Vernon Trail, hike the Appalachian Trail, go whitewater rafting on the James River or rock climbing in Great Falls. In 2015, the city of Richmond hosts the UCI World Road Cycling Championships. FUN FACT: Eight U.S. presidents were born in Virginia.

ALL-AMERICAN FUN: Soak up American heritage in the historic triangle of Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown.

ROAD TRIPS & TRAILS Take a road trip along one of these fun and fascinating trails connecting notable parks, waterways, wineries and historic landmarks. SCENIC BYWAYS - EXPLORE & SIGHTSEE: National Scenic Byways are roads recognised for their cultural, historic or recreational significance. Travel along the region’s 13 byways to explore historic towns, mountain vistas, lakes and historic landmarks.

A Taste of The Capital Region

WINE TRAILS - SIP & SAVOUR: With about 250 wineries, it’s easy to sip your way around the region. Virginia was recently named one of the top 10 wine destinations by Wine Enthusiast magazine. More than 20 wine trails wind through the state’s picturesque small towns, scenic mountains and beautiful countryside. The Monticello Wine Trail also includes presidential sites. In Maryland, wine trails meander from hills and valleys to the Eastern Shore.

CHESAPEAKE BAY GATEWAYS - RELAX & REFRESH: This collection of parks, wildlife refuges, museums and waterways is an ideal way to explore the famous bay and its rivers. Take the active route and go hiking, biking or paddling, or take a leisurely drive to explore the sights and attractions. Visit historic lighthouses, tour Fort McHenry to discover the inspiration for America’s national anthem (The Star-Spangled Banner) and, of course, feast on fresh seafood as you go.

A fly drive itinerary undoubtedly provides the most comprehensive holiday in the Capital Region USA. A fourteen night journey commencing and ending in vibrant Washington, DC and including stays in Baltimore, Annapolis, St Michaels, Cambridge, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Charlottesville and Luray, starts at £1,859 per person. Prices for ‘A Taste of The Capital Region’ include flights, accommodation and fully inclusive car hire.

Tel: 0115 948 4869 Email: nottingham@nats-uk.com www.northamericatravelservice.co.uk LONDON–MANCHESTER–LEEDS–NOT TINGHAM–BARNSLEY–EDINBURGH

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Melissa Odabash Elle Cowboy Hat

£138

Nine West Tasha Green Sandal

£95

Summer

Dolce & Gabbana Blossom Print Midi Dress

£1,210

Pastels enhanced with bright fabrics are here to stay this summer; let your wardrobe bloom with florals and let rich colours take hold as you enjoy the summer breeze – whether in the UK or overseas. We’ve compiled some of the most beautiful items available to buy in the region to help you get ready for the style of the season.

Chopard at Lumbers Jewellers Happy Diamonds Ring

£3,290

Dolce & Gabbana Saffiano Miss Sicily Bag

£1,070

Hobbs Sara Top

£89

Radley Marney Sunglasses

£90

Chopard at Lumbers Jewellers Happy Diamonds Pendant

£9,120

Breeze

Roland Mouret Indus Dress

£750

Nine West Katherena Beige Sandals

£105

Niche Bags Snake Effect Mini Leather Hand Bag

£99

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Mont Blanc at Lumbers Jewellers Esemplare

Meisterstuck Soft Grain Document Case

Reversible Hooded Jacket

£825

£450

Acqua Di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Eau de Toilette

£54

Mont Blanc at Lumbers Jewellers Iconic Meisterstuck 90 Years Stainless Steel Cufflinks

£160

& BRIGHT Hammond & Co by Patrick Gant Holdall

£180

Jaeger Polo with Contrast

£45

Dune Men Candy Shop

£95 48

Jaeger

Vilebrequin

Madras Shirt

Tuamotu Moorea

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THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PREMIER Fly Fishing Emporium

Fly and Big Game Fishing enthusiasts need look no further than the Game Angling Consultancy, a beautifully designed emporium in the heart of the Midlands offering a vast selection of the very best products under one roof.

The Derbyshire-based showroom caters for pros and novices alike, and CEO Captain Tony Spacey is passionate about getting more people into fly fishing and game angling. Fishing is often considered an exclusively male pastime but the Game Angling Consultancy are aiming to change people’s preconceptions and make game angling more accessible to women. Though fly fishing is less popular in the UK amongst women, it is an increasingly popular pursuit in the USA where 14.3 million women fish; more than the number who participate in jogging, basketball, volleyball, softball, golf or tennis. Women make up an incredible 32.4% of all anglers in America but this figure drops significantly to just 2% of women in the UK.

The Game Angling Consultancy aim to follow the American success story and encourage women to take up fly fishing. Their showroom stocks everything needed to enjoy a fantastic fishing experience including two full ranges of specially tailored ladies waders and boots in all sizes. Their expert staff are on hand to offer any support and advice needed. Customers can benefit from expert tuition given by the consultancy’s experienced team, offering everything from a simple two hour tutorial to a residential fly fishing course that will help them hone their skills. The fully-stocked showroom is a destination in itself and customers travel from all over the country to access such an extensive range of fly fishing equipment from top suppliers including Hardy, Orvis, Abel, Costa Del Mar, Thomas and Thomas, Loop, Simms, Sage and many more leading brands. Everything from the latest rods and reels to lines, waders, clothing and ancillary equipment is available from one convenient location. They also stock a range of their own bespoke rods, all hand-crafted in England and they have over 300 other rods on display with full try before you buy facilities. Customers will get the feeling of being in an exclusive fishing outfitters more typical of those found in North America.

Far more than a basic retail experience, the Game Angling Consultancy offers fly fishing activities include guiding, tuition and corporate entertainment days. Ranging from one-to-one sessions to full hospitality for larger groups, the team’s dedicated approach ensures that they are able to tailor any day to suit the exact requirements of their clients with no request too big or small. Offering a high level of luxury, expertise and enthusiasm, the Game Angling Consultancy is an unrivalled haven for both experienced fishing enthusiasts and people who are looking to take up the sport for the first time in particular. Coming soon in 2014, Game Angling will become the UK’s first big-game and sport fishing department store.

With a friendly, knowledgeable team, the Game Angling Consultancy provides a first-class service to all its customers. All of their staff are committed fly anglers; CEO Tony Spacey has experience in both fly and big game fishing around the world from the UK to Southern Africa, Cuba and the USA.

For more information on Game Angling Consultancy please call Captain Tony Spacey on 01332 331 548 or email: tony@gameanglingconsultancy.com or visit www.gameanglingconsultancy.com 53

ARTS AND CULTURE

With numerous music festivals, concerts and events featuring strongly in the Midlands throughout the year, the region has always nurtured and welcomed musical talent. With an illustrious history of solo artists and bands originating from the Midlands, Aspirational magazine is here to guide you through music acts both past and present along with some of the must-see gigs coming to our counties in 2014.

The Midlands has a musical past steeped in fame and influence on a global stage, with a number of globally recognised artists and bands starting up in Leicester, Nottingham, Derby and Birmingham. With notable artists including singers Engelbert Humpedinck and Sam Bailey along with Dire Straits bassist John Illsley, the region has produced global stars that have remained loyal ambassadors to the Midlands and paid tribute to the inherently cultured and encouraging environment they began their careers in. Perhaps the region’s most acclaimed band comes in the form of Leicester’s Brit Award winning Kasabian. Originally made up of vocalist Tom Meighan, guitarists Sergio Pizzorno and Cristopher Karloff and bassist Chris Edwards, the band has enjoyed global success and sold out huge venues in Europe, Australia and Japan. 2014 marks the ten-year anniversary and a big year for rock gods Kasabian with the band playing a celebratory homecoming gig to 35,000 people in Victoria Park in Leicester, headlining the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury as well as planning to launch their new album on 16th June. Reveling in a plethora of talent, the Midlands has recently introduced the nation to Nottingham superstar Jake Bugg. First performing on the BBC’s ‘introducing’ stage at the 2011 Glastonbury Festival, Bugg gained instant popularity for his fresh musical style influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Oasis and Johnny Cash. Headlining the 2013 Splendour Festival in Nottingham, Jake played to his adoring home crowd and attracted attention to the Midlands as a hub for exciting new talent.

Highlighting its status as a musically orientated and creative selection of counties, in 2014 the Midlands will play host to a multitude of festivals. Kicking off the summer, Download at Donington is set to be as successful as ever and emphasise the region’s ability to lead the way in attracting huge bands to play in front of thousands of devoted fans. Situated on the borders of Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire and running between the 13th and 15th of June, the motorsport capital of the Midlands is transformed into a haven for showcasing music. 2014 is set to be another golden year for the festival, with the track’s infield hosting a number of stages and acclaimed bands including Linkin Park, Status Quo and Aerosmith. Nottingham’s turn to demonstrate its ability to entertain the nation with a variety of legendary bands and artists takes place a month later with the Splendour Festival at Wollaton Park on the 19th of July. With headline acts including Tom Odell and the Happy Mondays, musicians will perform in front of a 20,000 strong audience. With the big news that the original members of Boomtown Rats will be featuring in the line up for 2014, Splendour is guaranteed to be bigger than ever and gain attention from a wide spanning music community. To finish a summer of music in the Midlands, the Leicester Music Festival has brought in some of the biggest musical stars in the country. Celebrating all the city has to offer, headline acts include Tinie Tempah, Labrinth and Leicester’s own 2013 X Factor winner, Sam Bailey. Located at the Leicester Tigers ground, the festival will play to 44,000 people over two days in an attempt to assert the region’s authority as a hive for musical activity.

Alongside the Midland’s busy schedule of music festivals, a number of global superstars are set to visit the area’s largest concert venues in the coming months. Birmingham’s LG Arena continues to secure hugely famous bands and artists to perform at their 15,000 seat venue. Beginning on the 13th June with the Pet Shop Boys, the LG’s summer events schedule features the likes of Robbie Williams on the 5th and 6th July and Dolly Parton on the 22nd June, as part of her Blue Smoke World Tour. Nottingham is similarly endowed with pre-eminent musical acts at the Capital FM Arena. Also playing host to Dolly Parton on the 2nd of July, the city has attracted both Jessie J on the 13th June and Elton John on the 24th June to perform at one of the best venues in the country. Nottingham’s Rock City will also present a selection of some of the most exciting upcoming artists in the nation, including Chuck Ragan, Nick Oliveri and Tame Impala. Leicester plays hosts to a wide variety of musical outlets in the summer of 2014. With venues including De Monfort Hall and the Curve Theatre, the city is set to provide some of the best musicals in the nation. Between the 25th of June and 29th of June, the Curve has the pleasure of scheduling Jesus Christ Superstar into its busy diary of star-studded events. Similarly, De Monfort Hall has the very best of orchestral performances throughout June, such as the Philharmonia Orchestra on the 11th of June and the Bardi Wind Orchestra on the 14th of June.

Proving testament to the Midland’s status as one of the most impressive regions in the nation for musical talent and performance venues, the range of acts visiting the area over the coming months will ensure that 2014 is another wonderful year for creating new stars whilst celebrating the UK’s entertainment culture in style. 55

WHAT TO

WATCH

Time marches on regardless, but at Lumbers Jewellers, we move with the time, embracing each new innovation, applauding the lengths our watch brands go to, bringing out new and exciting watches. So far this year we have had much to talk about. Chopard have partnered Porsche Motorsport to add an additional spoke to their wheel with their fabulous connections with all things mechanical and four wheeled. Breitling for Bentley continue the demand for beautiful black watches by launching the 6.75 Midnight Carbon, while Breitling celebrate the 30th anniversary of their iconic Chronomat watch. Tag Heuer continues the motoring theme with a Carrera inspired by the McLaren Sports car. And for those who prefer their sport ball shaped, Hublot have launched their Big Bang Unico to celebrate the World Cup 2014.

Breitling Chronomat Airbourne 44 To celebrate the 30th anniversary of its flagship Chronomat model, Breitling has launched a special series with a resolutely technical and professional look. It encapsulates the entire spirit of this legendary chronograph that has become a reference in the field of pilotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instruments. In 1984 the Chronomat became Breitlingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship model, and over the past 3 decades, this exceptional chronograph has evolved to achieve iconic status. With steel polished case, satin brushed rotating bezel with raised tabs and ultra readable black dial, the Chronomat Airbourne is the new classic.

Breguet Classique Tourbilon Breguet Classique Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar in 18ct rose gold. Since its beginnings, Breguet has produced a number of perpetual calendar models, but the 3797 with its hand wound tourbillon movement, adds a additional complication and dimension to this elegant watch. Also available in Platinum.

Bentley 6.75 Midnight Carbon A tribute to Bentleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest engine, the famous 6.75 litre, this new Bentley Chronograph ramps up the power in an entirely black clad limited edition series. The openworked dial offers a glimpse of the automatic, chronometer-certified movement behind, with the original large aperture date. Issued in a 1000 pieces edition, the Bentley 6.75 Midnight Carbon comes on a rubber strap. Sheer Class and a force to be reckoned with.

Chopard Grand Prix De Monaco Historique Official timekeeper of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique since 2002, Chopard has created the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Chrono in titanium and steel. Inspired by the classic single-seaters from the 1970s, the snailed grey dial and the yellow racing ring evoke speed while the stainless steel bezel and case back, stamped with the logo of the Monaco Automobile Club, add a touch of contrast to the titanium case. A chronograph at once technical and streamlined, beating with a movement that is chronometer-certified by the COSC.

Hublot’s Big Bang Unico It’s the Official Watch of this year’s FIFA World Cup™. It’s also the first Big Bang Unico Bi-Retrograde Chrono. It’s a first for Hublot, who has never before produced a bi-retrograde function, along with a central chrono.

TAG Heuer Carrera Inspired by the McLaren MP4-12C sports car, this high-performance limited edition TAG Heuer Carrera automatic chronograph is a collaboration of design, performance and precision engineering. The sandblasted titanium case is both durable and light weight, the carbon fibre dial is inspired by the McLaren’s carbon fibre chassis, and the smoked sapphire crystal inserts within the dial reveal the engine beneath the dial. Using the new Dubois Depraz calibre 4900 automatic movement with semi perpetual calendar and flyback function. The TAG Heuer Carrera is legendary collaboration of innovation and high-performance engineering.

LEAH MARKS HOUSE, 10-12 MARKET STREET LEICESTER, LE1 6DP TELEPHONE 0116 255 1233

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

the

HOSTS: URUGUAY ITALY FRANCE BRAZIL SWITZERLAND SWEDEN CHILE ENGLAND MEXICO WEST GERMANY ARGENTINA SPAIN MEXICO ITALY USA FRANCE SOUTH KOREA & JAPAN GERMANY SOUTH AFRICA BRAZIL

MAKING of

Capturing the imagination of millions of fans around the globe, the FIFA World Cup is the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet. A festival of football, the 2014 edition of the tournament will be hosted by five-time World Cup winners and one of the most iconic footballing nations in the world, Brazil. Hurst’s hat-trick, Gazza’s tears, the hand of God – a few words can conjure up vivid national memories and emotions, with many more set to be created in Brazil. Football reaches across society, transcending politics, religion and language to provide universal entertainment to millions. Though the first World Cup was not hosted until 1930, the tournament has origins dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. The first global football tournaments were hosted as part of the Olympics but were disrupted by the First World War, and then by controversy over whether professional sportsmen should feature at what was a supposedly amateur event. In 1921, Jules Rimet became the third president of FIFA and played a crucial role in establishing the World Cup as we know it. As well as creating an incredible footballing event, FIFA had another central aim: to unite nations around the globe.

Having won gold medals in 1924 and 1928, Uruguay was chosen to host the inaugural World Cup in 1930. The tournament was not an instant success, welcoming just four European teams due to a combination of the long sea journey to South America and the thought of losing their best players for two months. The home nation won the tournament but refused to compete in the following two World Cups due to their perceived snub by the European nations. Famed for his diplomatic abilities and passion for football, Jules Rimet worked hard to ease tensions between countries, presiding over the World Cup until his retirement in 1954. He was a central figure in creating a tournament that countries would be proud to compete in. The Jules Rimet Trophy was named in recognition of the monumental contribution he made to the sport. Since the Second World War, the World Cup has been staged in 15 countries, across five continents around the world. A truly global competition, a total of 76 national teams have competed for the most coveted prize in football, with new countries taking part in each new edition of the tournament. Peter Shilton OBE is a veteran of three World Cups, as well as being England’s most-capped player in history, with 125

the fifa world cup

LEGENDS appearances. Aspirational Magazine were lucky enough to speak with the England legend to discuss his experiences in the World Cup and how he predicts the current England squad will fare in Brazil.

“I was extremely proud to play in three World Cup finals; each one has some incredible memories for me. 1982 was unusual as we were eliminated despite only conceding one goal due to the format of the event that year. 1990 was also special because it’s the furthest England has ever reached in the World Cup finals away from home and we were only knocked out on penalties. “Obviously 1986 is memorable because of the ‘Hand of God’ moment which denied us the chance to go further in the tournament. It’s a moment I still feel angered by today, as I’m sure many others feel the same, which goes to show how much the World Cup matters. “During my era, I played with some fantastic players and I would say the teams were some of the best ever put out by England. We were capable of scoring plenty of goals while not conceding too many at the back.” On 12th June 2014, the World Cup in Brazil will begin with the

home nation taking on Croatia in Sao Paulo. This tournament is sparking more widespread excitement than in recent years as it is being hosted by a country that has won the World Cup more times than any other in history. Peter Shilton discussed his thoughts on the upcoming tournament: “From my experiences playing in Mexico in 1986, it will certainly take time to adapt to the climate and altitude in Brazil. When we went, we had a month to acclimatise to the conditions but this England side won’t have the same opportunity we did. “No one is quite sure what to expect from this England squad and there’s definitely a lot less pressure than in previous years. This is a young squad that is more than capable of scoring a few goals and competing with some of the best teams at the moment. Roy Hodgson has done very well giving young players the opportunity to come into the squad and improve. We have some very talented players like Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ross Barkley and if they all play well, who knows what could happen?”

The 2014 FIFA World Cup will take place 12th June – 13th July 2014. England will begin their campaign against Italy on 15th June 2014 in Manaus. Pictures from left to right: 1986: French midfielder Michel Platini 1986: Argentine Maradona & Peter Shilton OBE 1966: England winning team 1974: Dutch midfielder Johann Cruyff 1994: Romario of Brazil 1970: Brazilian midfielder Pelé 1994: Rudy Voeller and Juergen Klinsmann of Germany 1990: Paul Gascoigne

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

THE RENAISSANCE CLUB The Renaissance Club has been lauded by critics and golfing professionals as the ‘Best New Course in Great Britain and Ireland’ by Golf Monthly and as one of the most exquisite golfing venues in the world. It is delighted to announce that it will host its first tournament when the club welcomes the world’s leading male junior golfers for the Boys Amateur Championship in August 2016, co-hosting alongside its neighbouring Championship course, Muirfield.

Emerging on the East Lothian landscape in 2008, with its breathtaking, windswept links and stunning views, The Renaissance Club was the vision of its dedicated and passionate founders, the Sarvadi family. The course is everything at The Renaissance Club. Designed by world renowned golf course architect Tom Doak, The Renaissance Club is recognised as a modern masterpiece of golf course design that many aficionados and golf media insiders consider the future of links golf and a worthy descendant of its illustrious neighbours, Muirfield & North Berwick West Links. With a recently acquired triangular piece of Muirfieldowned land, which Doak fashioned into three new holes, and the club’s recently completed three-storey clubhouse with accommodation, the showpiece is finally complete. The Renaissance Club is now a tournament quality venue and world class golfing experience which is attracting worldwide attention.

Doak has harnessed the rugged elegance of East Lothian’s sweeping dunes and tall pines into a truly phenomenal golfing challenge, perfectly suited to host any professional tournament and is a challenging test from start to finish. The exceptional facilities of the club include a magnificent practice area, children’s golfing camps, regular ladies’ mornings and one-on-one lesson options. Some of the world’s finest golfers including Adam Scott, Jimmy Walker and Vijay Singh have walked away from the course mesmerised. The same dedication to quality and excellence is reflected in the facilities at the clubhouse which was completed in June 2013.

The course is everything at The Renaissance Club.

Members’ lodging and dining options at the club are simply sublime. Magnificent cuisine is prepared by chefs trained in Michelin-starred restaurants, while the accommodation delivers everything a member could possibly require, whether they need to conduct business or unwind in the epitome of luxury and refinement. Complete with spa, gymnasium and treatment areas, perfectly appointed locker rooms, beautiful bar, a fabulous dining experience and 23 luxurious lodging rooms, members are presented with a golfing experience guaranteed to last a lifetime. Locals call the area “The Golf Coast” with three of the most historical courses in the world – Muirfield, Gullane and North Berwick – within a five mile stretch of land. The Renaissance Club has proved to be a fabulous addition to this coastline, the East Lothian golf community and Scotland as a whole, and attracts incredibly positive reviews from everyone who has been lucky enough to play on it.

For more information about The Renaissance Club, please contact the club on 01620 850901 or at membership@trcaa.com The Renaissance Club, Cowden Hill Drive, Dirleton EH39 5HS. www.trcaa.com

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall is one of the most iconic events on the annual English sporting calendar. In its 81st year, the Championship has made an inspirational journey from local Torquay tournament to the third largest annual golfing event in England. Remastered by present day golfing pioneers Rick Cressman and Sid Mouland, the Championship is now one of the most hotly anticipated tournaments of the year and a firm favourite of professionals and celebrities alike. The Ryder Cup will come to Scotland for only the second time in its history when it is staged at the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles with the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship providing a perfect prelude to one of golf’s flagship events. For the sixth year in a row, two-time Major winner and the most successful Ryder Cup captain of all-time Tony Jacklin CBE will be hosting the Championship. Jacklin’s heroics in the 1960s, 70s and 80s were instrumental in the establishment of the European Tour as well as ending years of American dominance. The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship provides a unique opportunity to see Tony Jacklin competing across all four days of the tournament against a field of top golfers and celebrities. Two of this year’s European Ryder Cup vice-captains, Sam Torrance OBE and Des Smyth will be competing in the Championship once again. Torrance will forever be remembered for sinking the winning putt in the 1985 Ryder Cup under Jacklin’s stewardship and returned as captain in 2002 to preside over another European victory, while Smyth acted as vice-captain in another successful campaign in 2006. Another firm favourite of the championship is Masters winner and victorious Ryder Cup captain Ian Woosnam OBE who will welcome former teammates including Peter Baker and DJ Russell to the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship. As well as Ryder Cup legends, many current European Tour professionals and top celebrities regularly attend the week of fun and golfing excellence. Each year, the Championship is hosted at the picturesque Nailcote Hall located in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside. Replete with streams, ponds and trees, the natural beauty is spectacular and the course has been designed to challenge even the very best golfers. Par 3 golf is continually growing in popularity and provides an ideal opportunity for players to hone 62

their short game. The Cromwell Course at Nailcote Hall provides a stern test for any golfer; Ryder Cup legend or not! Two of the days are dedicated to the Pro-Am championship which is the ultimate prize for competitors and is always fiercely contested. European Tour star Tommy Fleetwood claimed the coveted 2013 Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship title, taking home a cheque for £25,000 with a majestic performance at Nailcote Hall. Paul Broadhurst was unable to maintain his lead until the end and was overtaken by the 2013 Johnnie Walker Championship winner. Many fans flock to Nailcote Hall for the two days of Celeb-Am events, featuring some of the country’s most famous faces. Previous attendees include Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson, Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman, most-capped England footballer of all-time Peter Shilton OBE, Ashes winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and top comedian Jasper Carrott. Another draw of the championship is the Tented Village where guests can relax with a drink or trial some of the latest golfing products. Throughout the day, celebrities take to the stage for exclusive Q&A sessions about their careers; a once in a lifetime opportunity for many fans. Always one of the highlights of the week, the Grand Finale Ball is a glittering event featuring a three-course meal, top-class entertainment and a host of celebrities. The 2013 Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship welcomed record crowds and this year’s tournament is set to be bigger and better than ever before. Headline sponsors Farmfoods will be returning once again and have pledged their support to ensure the Championship attracts elite golfers from up and down the country. Everyone is welcome to attend any or all four days of the Championship and guests are certain to see some firstclass golf and more than a few famous faces.

Tickets for the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship are available at www.ticketfactory.com Search for... Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship.

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Nottinghamshire’s Golfing Heritage in the Heart of Beeston Set in beautiful parkland surroundings, Beeston Fields Golf Club is an oasis of calm, just minutes from Nottingham’s bustling centre. Designed and built in 1923 by Tom Williamson, the golf course has retained many of its original features, offering all levels of golfer an enjoyable challenge. Now 90 years old, the course benefits from a range of wonderful old trees and shrubs, which complement the grandeur of the historic clubhouse. The original property was built in 1837, an impressive family home set in 135 acres of parkland with a walled kitchen garden. Bought in 1923 by a Nottingham businessman, Fred Mitchell, the entrepreneur quickly saw an opportunity to provide the area with a beautiful golf course and the historic club was created. Beeston Fields Golf Club has remained in the same family since its inception. Fred died in 1970 aged 92 and passed the estate to his nephew John Mitchell, a well-known figure in Nottinghamshire up until his death in 2013. His daughter Philippa has run the club since 2008 and is one of the country’s few female golf club Managing Directors. The golf club retains its heritage but takes a sensitive yet modern approach to the game, with members benefitting from a range of facilities including the beautiful old clubhouse, The Walled Garden events venue, excellent catering and a wide range of social events.

The course itself is maintained to the very highest standards by the dedicated green-keeping team, allowing both members and visitors to enjoy their golf throughout the year. Each of the 18 holes offer varied challenges and make the very best of the course’s unique characteristics and peaceful setting. Beeston Fields’ greens are considered to be some of the best in the county. Welcoming both members and visitors, the club maintains an open and friendly approach. The clubhouse is open each day for light refreshments and delicious meals, as well as offering Sunday lunches each week. In addition, there are a number of themed nights and events throughout the year. There are a variety of membership options available, including full, trial and flexible packages, allowing each individual to decide the best option for them. For many, Beeston Fields not only offers an idyllic location to play golf and relax away from the bustle of the nearby city, it also provides the ideal location for a range of celebrations, weddings and special events. Able to cater to smaller parties in some of the clubhouse’s beautiful wood panelled rooms or hold larger events in the dedicated Walled Garden event venue, Beeston Fields Golf Club offers an award winning team on hand to ensure that every celebration is truly unique.

Email: info@beestonfields.co.uk Office: 0115 925 7062 Fax: 0115 925 4280 Old Drive, Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 3DD www.beestonfields.co.uk

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

The stars join

TONY JACKLIN CBE for his fabulous Wentworth Invitational

The inaugural Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Invitational will be a first-class golfing extravaganza hosted by one of the sport’s pioneering figures. The two-time Major winner will welcome a host of golfing legends and famous faces to the Wentworth Club, one of the world’s most exclusive golf courses. Tony Jacklin CBE continues to inspire generations of golfers with his unrivalled achievements in the golfing world. In 1969, he became the first Englishman in 18 years to triumph at The Open Championship, which he quickly followed up with an historic US Open victory in 1970 on a windswept Hazeltine National Golf Course. During the pinnacle of his playing years, he became a hugely influential celebrity figure and is credited with boosting golf’s popularity in Britain, the rest of Europe and the world! Jacklin’s profile and success played a huge part in the establishment of the European Tour which continues to be the premier circuit for top European golfers and develops countless champions. Jacklin’s achievements have been recognised as ground-breaking in the history of golf and the list of professionals he has inspired reads like a who’s who of the golfing elite - Sir Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle MBE, Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer and Ian Woosnam OBE to name a few. The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Charity Invitational will take place during an exciting golfing season which will culminate in the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles 23-28 September 2014. Europe will be looking to display the dominance they have shown in recent years while America will be hoping to reassert themselves and to return to winning ways. During his illustrious career, Tony Jacklin played at the Ryder Cup on seven consecutive occasions, including his legendary singles match with Jack Nicklaus in 1969 which ended in the famous ‘Concession’. Jacklin achieved even more success when he captained the team on four separate occasions

from 1983-1989. During this time he became the most successful Ryder Cup Captain in the history of the event. Prior to his stewardship, the European team were short on confidence having lost the previous 13 Ryder Cups. Jacklin worked hard to instil confidence in the team and inspire them to finally get the better of their American counterparts. Surrounded by leafy London suburbs home to some of the country’s wealthiest people and a variety of celebrities, the Wentworth Club is one of the world’s most exclusive golf clubs. Founded in 1926, the club consists of three 18-hole courses and a nine-hole par 3 course. It hosts the annual BMW PGA Championship which regularly attracts the world’s top golfers and its membership includes some of the world’s most famous and wealthy people. The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Charity Invitational will be a truly incredible event, as competitors will have full use of the famous West Course and competitors will play a four-ball with a leading celebrity or top professional. English billionaire businessman Richard Caring bought the Wentworth Club in 2004 and is delighted to host the event as Jacklin has always been his hero and coached him when he was younger. Many of the professionals that Tony has played alongside in his illustrious career will be in attendance, along with a variety of high-profile celebrities. The event will feature a fabulous brunch at the clubhouse, 18 holes around the magnificent golf courses and excellent entertainment throughout the day and night. All of the teams participating on the day will enjoy an exclusive whisky tasting on the first tee courtesy of Glenmorangie for whom Tony Jacklin is a global ambassador. The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Charity Invitational is certain to be a world-class golfing extravaganza and will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for players and guests alike.

Countryside can be removed from clipping mask if more is needed top/bottom/left right but Farmfoods logo should remain central Red: 100% process magenta / 100% process yellow or P485 Yellow: 100% process yellow or Pantone Yellow

Headline sponsor NIGHTINGALE D E S I G N LT D

2 6 NIGHTINGAL E CRESCENT WEST HORSL EY SURREY KT2 4 6 PD

t.01483 283261

m.07950 541695

Headline sponsor

Venue partner

Official sponsor

Event organiser

Official charity

Wentworth For more information on how you can play in the event or become a sponsor please contact Lauren Duke, Events Manager at Champions (UK) plc on lduke@championsukplc.com or call 08453 31 30 31

Find out more about Tony Jacklin CBE at www.tonyjacklin.com

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

In sport, the words ‘genius’ and ‘legend’ are often bandied about to describe any sportsman who has shown some talent in their field, but few are really deserving of the titles. Sir Garfield Sobers is one of the rare exceptions and proudly stands alongside the all-time sporting greats. An elegant yet powerful batsman, highly skilled fielder, deceptive spin bowler, devastating fast bowler and enterprising captain, Sobers stood out from his contemporaries with his incomparable skill and versatility.

Sobers’ impact on the national team was instant with figures of 4/75 in England’s first innings on his debut, including a wicket in his opening over. He quickly established himself as a regular in the squad, playing in various different positions and utilising his immense talent. The statistics speak for themselves: in 93 international Test matches he captained the West Indies on 39 occasions, scored 8,032 runs including 26 centuries, took 235 wickets as a bowler and 109 catches as a fielder.

Born on the Caribbean island of Barbados in 1936, Sir Garfield Sobers showed his natural sporting ability from a young age, excelling in football and basketball, before turning his considerable talent to cricket. Sobers made his debut for the West Indies against England, aged just 17. Initially, he gained his place on his spin bowling ability alone but he quickly developed his batting before turning his attention to fast bowling, becoming deadly with the new ball. Not content there, he became adept at fielding in every position and completed his mastery of each of cricket’s disciplines.

One of his crowning achievements came in the 1957-1958 tour of Pakistan where he set the record for the highest test score of all time, scoring an incredible 365 not out. Although he was just 21-years-old at the time, Sobers showed his mature head and strong temperament during his 614 minute innings. His record stood for an incredible 36 years and few batsmen have surpassed this total today. In 1966, the year that England famously won the FIFA World Cup, Sir Garfield Sobers did his best to single-handedly take on the entire English

“The greatest exhibition of batting ever seen in Australia” - Sir Don Bradman 68

cricket team on their home turf. During the five-match series, he was heralded as ‘King Cricket’ after scoring 722 runs, taking 20 wickets and 10 catches. Arguably Sobers’ most iconic moment came in 1968, while captaining Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan when he faced the bowling of the unfortunate Malcolm Nash. In one fateful over, Sobers stunned the cricketing world by becoming the first man to score six sixes in a single over. With six swings of his bat, and despite being caught on the fifth ball before the fielder fell over the boundary, Sir Garfield Sobers seized yet another piece of cricketing history. In 1971, Australia played five special Test matches against a Rest of the World XI led by Sir Garfield Sobers. During the third Test, Sobers played what the great Sir Donald Bradman described as “the greatest exhibition of batting ever seen in Australia”, an innings that remains an inspiration to young batsmen today. Sobers continued to captain the West Indies until his retirement from all forms of cricket in 1974. He played his last Test in March at Queen’s Park Oval against England and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to cricket the same year. During his decorated

career, Sobers has received countless accolades: Don Bradman named him amongst his all-time top XI and he was named one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Century in 2000. Sobers is universally admired in the cricketing world and he inspired many of the great all-rounders that followed him. Back in Barbados, Sir Garfield Sobers is a national treasure and was named a National Hero in 1998 by the then Prime Minister Owen Arthur. The graciousness and good humour he showed on the field remains with him today, and he is proud of his achievements and his country. In August 2014, Sir Garfield Sobers will return to England where he continues to be revered in the sporting world. Champions Speakers is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to book Sir Garfield Sobers for after dinner speaking engagements including cricket days. Always active in his life, his passion for sport continues and he is a keen golfer, making him the ideal personality to attend a golf day in the UK. Sobers is now one of the world’s leading after dinner speakers and has a wealth of stories from his time at the forefront of cricket.

Sir Garfield Sobers is one of the rare exceptions and proudly stands alongside the all-time sporting greats.

For more information about booking Sir Garfield Sobers, please contact Champions Speakers on 08453 31 30 31 or email jackhayes@championsukplc.com

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

MARKS ELECTRICAL Creating a Buzz for Over 25 years

Established over 25 years ago, Marks Electrical is the largest independent retailer of domestic appliances in the UK. Over the years, the store has sold hundreds of thousands of appliances to its countless satisfied customers. Located in the heart of the country in Leicester, Marks Electrical sell a huge range of domestic appliances from all major manufacturers direct to retail and trade customers. With the largest showroom in the Midlands and free delivery across the UK, they were recognised as a Gold Trusted Merchant by Feefo, an independent reviews company, for achieving a Customer Service Rating of 98% in 2013. Recently added to the showroom was a prestigious Miele Centre with working built-in displays now stocking the exclusive Pureline Built In Range. Their recently installed flagship LG shop is among only 10 in the country and offers dedicated displays of Rangemaster, Stoves, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony. Marks Electrical is the preferred retailer chosen by manufacturers to be the first to display brand new innovative products such as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first curved screen LG TV.

Delivery is flexible to suit customers with a free next day service, two hour timeslots and a personal service by delivering themselves using their fleet of 18 vehicles. Their prices beat John Lewis, Currys and Appliances Online with a wide range appliances to suit any budget. 365electrical.com is another exceptional service offered by Marks Electrical, allowing customers to conveniently purchase a huge range of products online. Free weekend and next day delivery is available to all customers, as well as same day and evening delivery to most Midlands addresses. Marks Electrical is always looking to expand its range of services and now offers installation across the Midlands for gas and electric appliances. The retailer was voted runner-up for Best Electrical Retailer by Domestic and General. Constant investment by Managing Director Mark Smithson has provided a state-of-the-art warehouse, a modern ever-changing showroom and a brand new website which stands out from the crowd.

Marks Electrical 111-115 King Richards Road, Leicester, LE3 5QG Telephone: 0116 251 5515 Email: sales@markselectrical.co.uk www.markselectrical.co.uk

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

BRIGHT IDEAS from Ventola Projects Ltd and SLM Builders

Two of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading building and home improvement companies joined forces on a project in the heart of Leicestershire. Ventola Projects Ltd, proven specialists in electrical installations, lighting and utilities, shopfitting and building maintenance, enlisted the help of SLM Builders to convert a disused old pub and car park into six two-bedroom terraced houses with gardens on behalf of a local developer. Ventola Projects have been providing the very best in efficiency, service and quality for over 25 years. Based in the East Midlands but working on projects around the UK and globally, the company provide their extensive range of services to retailers, commercial factories, entertainment centres and new-build housing developments. Specialising in high-quality and impressive lighting installations, Ventola Projects adapt their services to suit each of their unique projects and clients. SLM Builders has over a decade of experience working with developers on a range of residential, commercial and new-build developments. Also based in the East Midlands, the company has worked on major projects with both the city and county councils, as well as ventures across the country. SLM Builders are accredited with Constructionline and Gold Standard with Exor Management Services, as well as being on the Approved Supplier List for Local Government Contracts. Both companies embarked on a joint project to entirely renovate an old pub in the large village of Anstey in Leicestershire. The village retains much of its old-fashioned charm and the project was planned to utilise the space available from the pub and car park and provide quality new housing in Anstey. The building and land was first purchased in September 2012, and after a careful planning and preparation phase, the project began on 11th February 2013.

Pictures: Left page: Church Lane project, converted from an old pub Right page - top: New house build in Anstey, Leics Right Page - middle left: New house build in Anstey, Leics Right Page - middle centre: SLM building project Right page - middle right: Jewellery cabinet display at Lumbers in Leicester Right Page - bottom: SLM building projects

In just over a year, the development was complete and the old pub and car park had been transformed into six two-bed terraced houses with gardens. The interior was given a completely modern conversion while the exterior was given a much-needed refinish. After hitting the scheduled completion date, all of the properties were quickly snapped up, testament to the exceptional quality of the finished project. Energy efficiency is one of the key concerns for Ventola Projects and they are always looking for new ways to reduce energy consumption, particularly by replacing old lighting systems. Both SLM Builders and Ventola Projects ensured everything was insulated correctly and the electrical and energy efficiency was as high as possible. With the years of experience and expertise that the staff at SLM Builders and Ventola Projects possess, developments such as this one are always in safe hands. Not only will the job be completed quickly and efficiently, the quality is always exceptionally high. Both firms are happy to take on a range of projects and are extremely pleased with their newfound partnership.

Ventola Projects Ltd Brookfield, 190a Cropston Road, Anstey, Leicester, LE7 7BN Phone: 07770 227537 or 0116 2340760 E-mail: info@ventola.co.uk www.ventola.co.uk SLM Builders, 37 Melrose Street, Leicester LE4 6FD Phone: 0116 276 5333 E-mail: slmbuilders@btconnect.com www.slmbuilders.co.uk

A RECOVERY IN THE HOUSING MARKET â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FACT OR FICTION? With encouraging news on the economy all eyes are on the property market. Opinions differ on whether price rises are restricted to a few hotspots or whether we are witnessing a new buoyancy across the market as a whole.

We decided to ask the experts; so who better to ask than James Warne of Bentons about his views on the current state of the market in the middle/upper price sectors in the East Midlands? When we met James, he was upbeat: “The housing market in the middle/upper end of the sectors has been fairly stagnant over the last few years. With general economic doom and gloom, there has been little appetite for wealthy purchasers to move upmarket as many have preferred to have liquidity available to them to invest in their businesses. The resulting transactions taking place have been due to purchasers too wealthy to worry about such matters, those needing to relocate or those moving upmarket to meet the needs of growing families.” “Over the last few years, this has resulted in a whole group of buyers missing from the market – those who feel that the time is not right to invest in property or those worrying that if they buy a new home today, it may be worth less tomorrow.” James went on to explain “All this seems to have changed over the last few months. House prices have now settled at their lowest level for some ten years which is now making it more affordable than ever to jump the gap between the value of your property and the next one you may wish to purchase. Coupled with this, the Government’s Help to Buy Scheme has made affordable mortgages available to those with smaller deposits and this is having a knock-on effect through the market, which is now being felt in the middle/upper end sector. “Many buyers are feeling that it is now the right time to buy, concerned that with prices set to rise, their next home may be out of reach when this starts to happen. Many wealthy purchasers are now feeling

less worried about the prospects for their businesses moving forward and seem happier to tie-up more cash in homes (a tax-free investment of course) and thus property now seems to be returning as a favoured form of investment against the back-drop of continuing low interest rates which makes other investments less attractive and mortgages cheap and more readily available.” “At Bentons, we have seen a significant upturn in the number of properties being sold this year and those included on this page are just a small selection of some of the properties which have been changing hands since January. We have begun to see

“Competitive pricing still seems to be the key to selling in the current market along with innovative and sophisticated marketing techniques, many of which we are pioneering here at Bentons.” - James Warne, Director of Bentons

competitive bidding on several properties which would definitely not have been the case only a year or two ago. As to whether this upturn is set to continue, no one really knows the answer and we have had plenty of false dawns in the past. My view, however, is that this is a sustainable and meaningful upturn.” “In the East Midlands, we have always felt the ripple effect of an upturn in the London market sometime later and I wonder whether this ripple will move through the area in the next year or so. I also believe that there is a large amount of pent-up demand from all those people who have not moved because of uncertainty over the last few years who seem to be now starting to consider moving. There are many people in rented accommodation who are now wondering whether this is the time to re-enter the housing market.” “Despite all of the above, competitive pricing still seems to be the key to selling in the current market along with innovative and sophisticated marketing techniques, many of which we are pioneering here at Bentons.” James Warne and his team at Bentons Limited are specialists throughout Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire in the middle/upper sectors of the market. James has over 30 years of experience in dealing with the majority of the area’s finest properties and no one is better equipped to provide you with professional advice if you are considering a move.

James also deals with a number of properties on a discreet basis for those clients who do not wish to fully expose their houses to the market and he is able to discuss whichever strategy you feel is right for you. James and his team can be contacted on 01664 563892 or sales@bentons.co.uk

Bess Bagley Farm, Ulverscroft Situated within Charnwood Forest surrounded by approximately 55 acres of garden and paddocks, Bess Bagley Farm is the result of a three year project to build one of the finest and most impressive country properties we have seen. Offering over 13,000 square feet, the property offers six luxury bedroom suites and accommodation over four floors to include a truly outstanding subterranean leisure complex of over 5,000 square feet with limestone tiled swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, steam/sauna, entertaining room, changing rooms and wine store. With magnificent oak framed reception room and kitchen, the property is constructed of solid granite walls with oak double glazed windows and a graduated Swithland slate roof comprising of many thousands of tiles. With fine uninterrupted open views over Charnwood Forest and a long tree lined approach off Whitcroft Lane, viewing is essential to appreciate the scale and quality of this outstanding country house. Awaiting EPC.

ÂŁ3,000,000

Tree Tops, Newtown Linford Situated within this most favoured of residential locations in the heart of Charnwood Forest with outstanding panoramic views, this remarkable detached family home commissioned by the previous owners for their own occupation and having been painstakingly constructed in fine course local stone with substantial oak framed wings. Lavishly appointed throughout with the finest quality fittings, the accommodation is arranged over three floors and features oak joinery throughout, extensive limestone flooring with underfloor heating, superb kitchen by Robinson & Cornish and a superb fitted study and wardrobes by Philip Dowse Interiors. With five bedrooms and four bathrooms, the property demands internal inspection. EPC-C.

ÂŁ1,850,000

Radius House, Rothley

£1,450,000

Strancliffe Hall, Barrow Upon Soar

£1,150,000

Radius House is an outstanding luxury home designed for entertaining and living within one of Leicestershire’s premier residential locations and offering degrees of quality, space, light and style.

Strancliffe Hall is a fine period family home in three and a half acres of gardens, spinney and parkland. Magnificent period features include a circular galleried landing with dome roof light above, heavy panelled doors, original fireplaces and oriel bay windows etc.

Featuring four bedroom suites, three magnificent reception rooms and a superb luxury living and dining area with a bespoke kitchen by Davenport, the property is situated within under 1 acre of outstanding landscaped gardens just behind The Ridgeway. The completely unique architect designed interior offers a degree of light and space impossible to appreciate without inspection. EPC-D.

The period integrity and character of the property has been enhanced by bathroom and kitchen fittings of the very highest quality including a bespoke dining kitchen by Moir & Wade and superb en-suite bathroom finished in marble with Jacuzzi bath. Beautifully presented throughout, the elegant accommodation includes a magnificent 33’7” x 22’0” reception hall, four superb principal reception rooms and extensive cellarage. Whilst on the first floor there are five bedrooms, three en-suites and family bathroom. Magnificent gardens include a tennis court with an extensive range of outbuildings comprising of a coach-house, garaging, games room and studio/party room. EPC-F.

141 Main Street, Swithland

Quorn Lodge Farm, Quorn

£845,000

£825,000

Situated within this most desirable of Charnwood Forest villages with outstanding open views to the rear, a substantial five bedroom detached family home with four/five reception rooms, large dining kitchen, bathroom and en-suite shower room.

Situated in open countryside just outside the highly desirable village of Quorn, an immaculately presented and imposing three storey period farmhouse with outstanding uninterrupted open views over Charnwood Forest.

Design features include solid oak doors and flooring, Swithland slate window sills and attractive stone work. The property also offers a detached double garage, completely private landscaped rear garden and in and out driveway. With potential for a ground floor self-contained annex if required, the property is immaculately presented throughout, offering gas fired central heating and sealed unit double glazing. In all, a delightful family home within one of Charnwood Forest’s premier residential locations. Awaiting EPC.

Featuring a superb indoor leisure complex, the property offers five/six bedrooms, two luxury bathrooms and en-suite shower room. With a wealth of original features including heavily beamed ceilings the property also features a fully fitted kitchen with granite work tops, oil fired central heating, uPVC double glazing, detached double garage, outside stores and delightful landscaped gardens. EPC-E.

The Old House, Cropston

£795,000

West End House, Long Clawson

£750,000

A rare opportunity to acquire a substantial Grade II Listed period property dating back to the late 1700’s and offering six bedrooms, three reception rooms and a completely separate two bedroom detached cottage ideal for dependent relatives.

An imposing and substantial Grade II listed three storey property of considerable period integrity and character dating back to 1743, situated within one acre of mature gardens with open views to the rear and a useful range of brick outbuildings.

Possessing a wealth of original features including heavily beamed ceilings and excellent cellars, the property is situated within approximately 0.34 acres of delightful private mature garden grounds. In addition, outbuildings include two garages and fuel store. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the size and character of the accommodation. EPC-F.

Offering five/six bedrooms, two bathrooms and three reception rooms, the property offers many original features including heavily beamed ceilings, inglenook fireplaces, window seats, shutters, spice cupboard and original doors. Parking for a large number of vehicles, barn/stabling, orchard/small paddock. EPC-E.

Top Farm, Little Stretton

Stoneleigh House, Waltham On The Wolds

£735,000

£695,000

A beautifully presented detached period family home offering four reception rooms, five double bedrooms all with en-suite bathroom or shower rooms, bespoke luxury kitchen by Alexander Lewis and a wealth of period features and characters including open fronted fire places, heavily beamed ceilings and exposed brick work.

A substantial detached Grade II listed five bedroom period property of considerable charm and character having been completely refurbished with a range of stone/pantiled outbuildings including games room/offices ideal for home business and landscaped gardens to front, side and rear.

Lovingly restored, the property offers the highest quality of fixtures and fittings throughout including oak and natural stone flooring, leaded oak double glazed windows and doors. With private walled rear garden, parking for four cars, electric gated approach and garage with electric door, the property demands internal inspection to appreciate the size and quality of the interior. EPC-D.

Offering a wealth of period features including restored shutters, moulded cornicings, open fronted fireplaces and stripped pine doors together with superb vaulted cellar and three/four reception rooms, the property features three remodelled bathrooms and a superb open plan living/dining kitchen with four oven Aga, granite work surfacing and appliances. EPC-F.

Davley House, Rothley

£645,000

Situated within this most favoured of residential locations, a substantial six bedroom detached family home backing on to the famous Great Central Steam Railway and with elevated views over open countryside towards Bradgate Park.

Birch House, Burton On The Wolds

£450,000

Birch House is a deceptively spacious character home occupying a delightful position within the heart of this sought after Wolds village.

With gas fired central heating and sealed unit double glazing, the property consists of three reception rooms, a refitted kitchen, four piece family bathroom and ensuite shower room, and is offered with all fitted carpets, curtains and light fittings included. The house has a fully operational alarm system with front security lighting and low voltage darkness sensing carriage lights. The front garden also has two security cameras with a recorder/viewer. EPC-E.

The property has recently undergone a full programme of refurbishment to include rewiring, new central heating boiler, complete redecoration and offers flexible accommodation including entrance hall, cloakroom, two/three reception rooms, superb refitted living/dining/kitchen and utility area. To the first floor are four bedrooms, refitted en-suite shower room and luxury refitted family bathroom. Whilst retaining original features including beamed ceilings and wood panelled doors, the property offers stylish contemporary accommodation with the benefit of uPVC double glazing and gas central heating. Outside a driveway to rear provides parking for several vehicles and the property enjoys a well stocked established garden with useful outbuilding. EPC-D.

Burton Bandalls Farm, Cotes

Old Yew Tree Farmhouse, Seagrave

£395,000

£379,950

Situated within open countryside, a rare opportunity to acquire a three storey five bedroom semi-detached Grade II listed farmhouse within approximately three quarters on an acre of mature gardens with outstanding open views on three sides.

Situated within this desirable and well serviced conservation village, a three storey 17th century period farmhouse with attached two storey cottage, offering three/four bedrooms, family bathroom and two shower rooms.

With extensive parking for a number of vehicles and attractive gardens, the property benefits from mains gas fired central heating and offers two reception rooms, five bedrooms, bathroom and shower room over three floors. With ample space for an extension or garage (subject to any necessary consents/approvals), the property offers a wealth of original features and demands inspection to appreciate the delightful semi-rural location and potential of the property. EPC-E.

Offering a wealth of original features including quarry tiled floors, original doors, heavily beamed ceilings and original fireplaces, including magnificent inglenook in the sitting room with original bread oven. The property offers flexible accommodation arranged such that, if required, the attached bake house/cottage is a self-contained annex ideal for a dependant relative or bed and breakfast. Featuring a farmhouse kitchen with Claret Rayburn, original cellarage, study area and two staircases, the property also offers gas central heating, a private enclosed garden to the side, separate rear courtyard garden, garage and parking for three cars. EPC-F.

A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

IS THE BABY BOOMER GENERATION LOSING ITS LUSTRE?

geing parents and cash-strapped children are putting pressure on the finances of the baby boomers, as Heather Connon explains.

They are called the ‘baby boomers’ because they were born during the post-war surge in births, but the ‘boomer’ epithet could equally apply to their financial position. Those born between 1945 and 1965 or so look like members of a golden generation. They have enjoyed an era in which unemployment was relatively low and jobs for life, often with generous final salary schemes, were common; an era of growing home ownership – in 1953, just 32% of people owned their own homes, half the level of 2011 (1); and an era of surging house prices – average prices in England and Wales have risen from £5,774 in 1971 to more than £233,000 in May 2013, not allowing for the effect of inflation (2). The result is a generation heading into retirement with significant wealth. David Willetts, the Conservative MP who thinks it is time for the baby boomers to give some of their wealth back to their children, reckons that the over-65s own more than a third of the nation’s £6.7 trillion of wealth and the over-45s more than 80%. But the new age of austerity in the wake of the financial crisis is rubbing some of the gilt off the boomer generation. Indeed, many are finding themselves being transformed into the sandwich generation as they care for elderly parents as well as continue to finance their children for far longer than has been traditional. The Pew Research Center, which has done extensive research into this phenomenon in the US, estimates that, in 2012, 15% of people aged between 40 and 59 were supporting a parent aged over 65 and at least one child, up from 12% in 2005. There are no similar statistics for the UK, but it is likely that a growing number will find themselves in that position as the economic squeeze tightens on both the young and the elderly.

Our children are already costing significantly more, but are able to contribute less.

expenses, with one in ten facing a bill of £100,000, according to health secretary Jeremy Hunt in a February statement on social care funding.

As from last September, university tuition fees effectively trebled as the government allowed annual charges of up to £9,000. Those who choose to support their children, rather than leaving them to take out loans, could therefore have to find as much as £53,000 in fees and living costs for a three-year degree (3).

The richer you are, the more likely you are to face these twin costs. The Pew Research Center found that 43% of those with annual incomes of $100,000 (£67,000) or more have a living parent aged 65 or over and a dependent child, compared with just 17% of those earning less than $30,000 (£19,000).

Even an expensive degree is no guarantee of financial security, however. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that, at the end of 2011, 15% of those who had graduated within the previous six years were unemployed compared with 10% a decade earlier, while 36% were in low-skilled, and therefore low-paid, jobs compared with 27% in 2001.

Being the filling in this sandwich is rather uncomfortable. The Pew Research Center further found that 30% of those who were supporting an elderly parent were just meeting their own basic expenses, and 11% don’t even have enough for that, while only 28% felt comfortably off.

Rising house prices mean children are living at home for longer. A recent survey by Saga suggested that as many as three million over-50s had adult children living at home, and the average age of these offspring was 27. Indeed, the average age of first-time house-buyers is now 35, compared with 28 a decade ago (4). With the average house price for the entire UK now almost at £168,000 (5) – and substantially more than that in areas such as London – and mortgage lenders requiring high deposits, getting children to leave home is likely to mean parents funding deposits to help them to buy their first house. Most lenders now want deposits of 20% or more, which means £32,000 for the average-priced house. Increasing longevity and the rising costs of social care mean that elderly parents are also becoming more expensive. A couple of decades ago, baby boomers would have been looking forward to a healthy inheritance from their parents; these days, the family house may need to be sold to pay for the costs of care home fees and other

So it is no surprise that baby boomers’ view of retirement is changing. Today’s retirees can expect to live longer than any previous generation, with the life expectancy of an average man aged 65 in 2012 now 86, compared with 79 three decades ago (6). That means a phased retirement is likely to become the norm. Indeed, figures for 2011 show that more than a fifth of men aged between 65 and 69 were still working, up from 12% in 1993, according to research by the Pensions Policy Institute, and even among those aged between 70 and 74, the figure was one in ten. The lesson is clear: far from stealing from the next generation, the baby boomers will increasingly find themselves supporting both the next and previous generations. Those who want to avoid the risks of joining the ranks of the impecunious should be carefully planning their retirement expenditure and the way they will cover it. 1. www.ons.gov.uk (April 2013) 2. www.acadametrics.co.uk (May 2013) 3. www.lv.com (August 2012) 4. www.postoffice.co.uk (September 2012) 5. www.nationwide.co.uk (May 2013) 6.www.pensionspolicyinstitute.org.uk (April 2012)

JANINE EDWARDS Senior Partner Tel: 01676 530606 Email: janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.janineedwards.co.uk

SIMON FLEET ASSOCIATES

Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s PlaceWealth Management

Tel: 01949 842828 Email: simon.fleet@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.sjpp.co.uk/simonfleet

PA RT N E R S IN MA N AG I NG YOUR W E A LTH

Janine Edwards and Simon Fleet, each run separate businesses within St. James’s Place and do not operate in legal partnership with each other. St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. For the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Urban living in the centre of NOTTINGHAM One of the exclusive properties available for savvy As the East Midlands continues to house hunters is a Georgian Town House located in A A the enjoy an impressive upswing, there is PAR K T E R R prestigious A C E Park Estate within walking distance of K T E R R Ano better time to invest in a property CE Nottingham City Centre. in the heart of Nottingham. Vulpes Limited, an experienced and reliable Depending on the individuals’ preferences, the property land and development partner, offer can be purchased as a complete 7 bedroom house or friendly, personal, professional converted into two town houses offering between 2 advice and consultation for land and and 4 bedrooms with excellent living space. Finished in development projects. a modern and contemporary style, the property

naturally retains the historic features that make it so desirable. A soft marketing campaign has been A carried out via retained agents resulting in over 20 viewings by potential purchasers, in the first few weeks alone.

This property extends to more than 4,500 sq. ft. and is currently proposed to be converted into two extensive Town House properties of 2 and 4 bedrooms. It has been forecasted that these will be completed in time for occupation by the end of 2014.

Notes

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Plans below show the single property being converted into two separate town houses. The blue property offers 4 A A Aliving A space A A A A A A A A AoverA3 floors. bedrooms with Pvast indoor and Pout. green offers a Aunique 2Abedroom property PA AR A R K PTThe AERRKR R K property R K TC EE R RTPAE A ATCEER R A C E PAR K C ER AR PAR PAR

For more information about this exclusive development opportunity available through MS Properties, contact Shaun Fox on 07966 554 475 or e-mail info@vulpes.biz

K T E RKR A K TC EE R RTAECRER ATCEER R A C E

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Terrace

Client Client Client Client Dressing Matthew Hayes Matthew Hayes Matthew Hayes Matthew Hayes

Drawing Title Drawing Title Drawing Title Drawing Title PROPOSED LAYOUTOVERLAY & EXISTING OVERLAY PROPOSED PROPOSED LAYOUT & PROPOSED EXISTING LAYOUT & OVERLAY LAYOUT EXISTING & EXISTING OVERLAY

Date

Date 04-04-14

Date Scale Date Scale Scale Scale W 04-04-14 04-04-14 04-04-14 1:100@A1 W 1:100@A1 1:100@A1

Drawing Number Drawing Number Drawing Number Drawing Revision Number Revision Revision 6757 / 11 6757 / 11 6757 / 11 6757 / 11

Entrance ceiling ht Hall 2411 23

fs 900 fh 2295

sus.c ceiling ht 2910

0115 941 3347 07966 554475 info@vulpes.biz

Walk in W/robe

Drawing ByBy Drawing By Drawing By Drawing Checked By By Checked Checked By Checked By AJL AJL AJL AJLPJT PJT PJT

A A * The above architects drawings are artistic representation only and are subject to full planning permission being received. WC

fs 1880 fh 2540

Bedroom 3

fs 1180 W fh 2700

970

17 17

970

15 15 16 16

ceiling ht 2128

970

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12 13 13 14 14

fs 1090 10 fh 2660 11

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Dining ceiling ht 2600

ceiling ht 1830

fs1300 fh 2710

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rooflight

12 11

15 16

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ceiling ht 1830

13 14

10 11

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ceiling ht 1830

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ceiling ht 2128

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fs 1090 fh 2660 7

ceiling ht 2128 ceiling ht 1830

ceiling ht 1830

rooflight

fs1300 fh 2710 ceiling ht 2580

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Landing

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fs 1180 fh 1830

rooflight

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ceiling ht 1830

rooflight 10

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16 16 17 17

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12 13 13

Enfs1300 fh 2710 Suite

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ceiling ht 2580

16 16 17 17

14 14 15 15

12 13 13

fh 2650

rooflight

ceiling ht 2857

9 fs 1090 10 fh 2660 11

ceiling ht 2890

fs 1880 fh 2540 10

12 13 13

17 17

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16 16 17 17

14 14 15 15

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ceiling ht 2580

rooflight fs 1180 fh 1830

ceiling ht 1830

8 9 fs 1090 10 fh 2660 11

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Bedroomfs 1880 3 fh72540

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fs 1180 fh 1830

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sus.c Terrace ceiling ht 2700

Terrace

15 16

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En-fs1300 fh 2710 Suite fs 965

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ceiling ht fs 965 fh 2650 2580

fh 2650

rooflight ceiling ht 1830

fs 1090 fh 2660 rooflight 7

fs 1090 fh 2660

ceiling ht 2128

Master Bedroom ceiling ht Terrace 2200

Master Bedroom ceiling ht 2200 Terrace

fs 1180 ceiling htrooflight fh 1830 1830

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fs 1090 fh 2660

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3440

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2120

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15 16

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Utilityfs 965

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Entrance Bedroom Bedroom 3 3 Hall ceiling ht

ceiling ht 2857

2225 fs 800 fh 2225

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Dining

A Living

Master Bedroom

ceiling ht 2200

Wrooflight

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Landing

9 fs 1090 10 fh 2660 11

ceiling ht 2890

ceiling ht 2440

WCUtility ceiling ht

Utility

fs 1030 fh 2340

10 11

15 16

14 15

13 14

12 13

10 11

12 11

ceiling ht 2624

W En-Suite

fs 1090 fh 2660

Bedroom 3

fs 1180 fh 2700

fs 530 fh 2780 fs 1030 fh 2340

sus.c ceiling ht 2700

fs 1370 fh 1980

3440

8 17

ceiling ht 2624

Entrance Hall ceiling ht

ceiling ht 2440 ceiling ht 2225

fs 800 fh 2225

W/D

ceiling ht 2225

fs 800 fh 2225

fs 1180 fh 2700

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WC Utility

fs 530 fh 2780 fs 1030 fh 2340

fs 530 fh 2780

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Living

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Landing

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En-Suite Master Bedroom

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W W

W En-Suite

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fs 850 sp 2500 ah 2720 ceiling ht 2624

fs 850 sp 2500 ah 2720 ceiling ht 2624 fs 1370 fh 1980

fs 1370 fh 1980

w fs 850 sp 2500 ah 2720

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3440

Utility

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Entrance Hall7 ceiling ht St 3440

Entrance 7Hall ceiling ht

En-Suite

Landing

fs 1180 fh 2700

fs 800 fh 2225

Utility

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Up 130mm

Utility

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Plant

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Living

ceiling ht 3140

Up 130mm

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fs 920 fh 2550

Up 130mm

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Plant

Plant fs 920 fh 2550

fs 920 fh 2550

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Family Area

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3440

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fs 2090 fh 2527

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Wine Store

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Existing walls to be removed Existing walls to be removed Existing walls to be Existing removedwalls to be removed

Wine Store

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Proposed walls / doors

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Landing

sus.c ceiling ht 3437

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fs 100 fh 2595

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ng ht 595

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1030

980

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ceiling ht ceiling ht 3140 3430

Living New Glazed

En-Suite

fs 100 fh 2595

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fs 1030 fh 2615

9 8

Bedroom 4

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Legend

fs 960 fh 2680

fs 1030 fh 2615

rooflight

fs 960 fs 1030 fh 2680 fh 2615

ceiling ht 3140

fs 960 fh 2680

Bedroom 4

ceiling ht 3140

Kitchen/ Dining

Kitchen/ Dining Kitchen/ Dining

fs 960 fh 2680

fs 750 fh 2810

ceiling ht 2467

Living

Kitchen/ Dining

Lobby

fs 750 fh 2810

ceiling ht 2467

u/s beam 2418

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fs 220 fs fh 750 2610 fh 2810

fs 220 fs 750 fh 2610 fh 2810

rooflight

fs 220 fh 2610

ceiling ht 2895

fs 220 fh 2610

Shaun Fox, Managing Director at Vulpes Master Bedroom Limited, has years of experience in his W industry and can offer tailored advice preferences. En-Suite based on client’s individual W Vulpes Limited also offer a range of Wother services including acquisition, planning W advice, development consultancy and land & property disposals. En-Suite

Bedroom 3

fs 710 fh 2380

ceiling ht 2835

New Glazed Entrance Link rooflight

Lobby

Lobby fs 710 fh 2380

fs 710 fh 2380

fs 1030 fh 2615

ceiling ht 3430

Living

ceiling ht 3140

10 9

980

rooflight

fs 750 fh 2810

rooflight

fs 220 fh 2610

Revision

BERESFORD HOUSE BERESFORD HOUSE BERESFORD BERESFORD HOUSE HOUSE 1 NEWTOWN STREET 1 NEWTOWN STREET 1 NEWTOWN1STREET NEWTOWN STREET LEICESTER LEICESTER LEICESTER LEICESTER LE1 6WH LE1 6WH LE1 6WH LE1 6WH TEL. 0116 254 7868 TEL. 0116 254 7868 TEL. 0116 254 TEL. 78680116 254 7868 FAX. 0116 255 7293 FAX. 0116 255 7293 FAX. 0116 255 FAX. 72930116 255 7293 EMAIL. enquiries@gwh.co.uk EMAIL. enquiries@gwh.co.uk EMAIL. enquiries@gwh.co.uk EMAIL. enquiries@gwh.co.uk ceiling ht 2600 www.gwh.co.uk www.gwh.co.uk www.gwh.co.uk www.gwh.co.uk

Master

Gordon White In & Hood LtdNo.4088022 Registered In England No.4088022 Gordon White & Hood Gordon Ltd Registered White & Hood In Gordon England LtdWhite Registered No.4088022 & Hood In Ltd England Registered No.4088022 England

PJT

1:100@A1

970

Terrace

CREATIVE

MARKETING

PUBLIC RELATIONS

EVENTS

31 30 31

www.championsukplc.com

CELEBRITY

FINE DINING GUIDE

ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

Here at Aspirational Magazine we love any chance to talk about fine food, so when we had the opportunity recently to broach the subject with the man dubbed the ‘Nation’s Favourite French Chef’, Jean-Christophe Novelli, we positively jumped at the chance. Drawing on his peerless culinary wisdom, we have lovingly prepared this essential fine dining guide to showcase some of the finest East Midlands eateries and to let you know where exactly to find the very best food this summer. The region’s restaurant scene is in rude health indeed. We drop into Leicester city centre to check out the latest seasonal offerings at the stylish boutique Hotel Maiyango and take a trip across Leicestershire to get a taste of the authentic Italian cuisine the Albiniano family are cooking up this summer at Gino’s Pear Tree. Venturing all the way out to Rutland, we sample the delights of Hambleton Hall’s refined à la carte menu and indulge ourselves at Derby’s Cathedral Quarter Hotel, home to the decadent Opulence Restaurant & Grill. There are plenty more on the list but, suffice it to say, no matter where you look, it is going to be a vintage summer for East Midlands foodies. If you are looking too for inspiration on the home front, here is a great seasonal suggestion from Jean-Christophe’s latest book, Simply Novelli.

s Simply Novelli Main

s de Pomme Cabillaud au Juh Loin of Cod wit uction ed Apple JuiredicbyetripR n I was a s to Normandy whe such g This dish was insp t can be made usin various dishes tha young man and the le. app the a versatile fruit like Serves: 4 10 minutes Preparation Time: minutes Cooking Time: 40

ts Ingredien cod loin

4 x 175g rapeseed oil 2 tbsp extra virgin 1 tsp curry powder 1 tsp cumin seeds ) 7 shallots (finely sliced few sprigs thyme pepper black nd grou a little (to taste)

ed) 2 cloves garlic (crush 120ml dry apple juice ey (chopped) 1 tbsp flat-leaf parsl ped) 1 tbsp tarragon (chop olive oil 3 tbsp extra virgin

eed oil) (or extra virgin rapes

s 1 tbsp mustard seedrd) (or wholegrain musta e 200g crème fraîch y hone 1 tsp

Method

the rapeseed For The Cod pan, with a lid. Heat Preheat a heavy based and cumin seeds. Stir the spices er oil with the curry powd ide down. into the pan, skin-s and place the cod pan, then add red shallots into the . Add half of the prepa er and crushed garlic the thyme, black pepp lid - making fitting tight a cover with Turn the fish over and Heat for about 5 minutes, hot. juices have the sure the pan is very Once of the apple juice. tes, minu then pour in 60ml 5 dn’t take longer than shallots. reduced, which shoul pan along with the the from fish the remove with clingfilm. cover and plate a Transfer to e To Prepare The Sauc on over the ed parsley and tarrag a Sprinkle the chopp with the olive oil in and leave to infuse into the pan remaining shallots remaining apple juice the pour then juices sauté pan, ard. Drain the fish must the in Stir . and heat gently Reduce the add these to the pan. from the plate and e fraîche and the stirring in the crèm (so that it coats cooking liquor by half, tion is nice and thick honey once the reduc ). the back of a spoon and hot pan. The dish looks the to back fish Return the the pan. d hot, straight from smells fantastic serve

Chef ’s Tip

ly pressed Use good quality, fresh the sugar apple juice as te a better content will help crea g sauce. tastin

123

“He breaks all the rules but when you Jean-Christophe Novelli is available for personal appearances, private dining experiences, brand endorsements and much more.

To find out how Jean-Christophe can work with you contact Champions (UK) plc on 0845 331 3031

share a kitchen with Novelli, you’re in the presence of a genius” Tessa Boase, The Telegraph

GINO’S PEAR TREE, PIZZERIA, WINE BAR & RESTAURANT Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire

Evoking the atmosphere of the Italian countryside, Gino’s Pear Tree is celebrated for its authentic Italian cuisine and excellent wine list. The brand new pizzeria is a superb addition that would not be out of place in the historic streets of Naples. Renowned for the quality of their pizzas, the Albiniano family work closely alongside their expert pizza chef, Davide to create delicious results. Davide comes from a rich culinary background; his father is a celebrated pizza chef while his mother is a master baker specialising in mille feuille. He has moved across from Italy to offer Gino’s diners the incredible opportunity to sample authentic pizzas from a renowned chef. Following the tradition of true Neopolitan pizzas, the dough is proved and developed before being stone baked in the oven which was imported directly from the Albiniano family’s home town of Campobasso. Only the very finest aged and cured prosciutto and salamis are used on the topping which complement the secret tomato sauce, made using sun ripened calabrian tomatoes. Gino’s now offers their loyal customers the chance to enjoy some of their delicious pizzas at home, cooking pizzas to order and sending them out in creatively branded boxes. Gino’s now serves pizzas all day. The oven will be fired up from 12pm - 10pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 4pm to 10pm after their traditional sunday lunch service, which offers a 2/3 course choice set menu.

Open for lunch and offering an earlier opening time for pizzas, Gino’s is the perfect place for a relaxed meal with friends and family. With stylish yet casual surroundings, Gino’s are proud that so many customers are delighted with their experience. Gino’s Pear Tree also host live jazz nights every Friday, bringing together fantastic food and great music for their delighted visitors. The restaurant continues to offer a full à la carte menu. Representing the very best of true Italian gastronomy, diners find themselves transported to the rolling foothills of the Tuscan countryside. The wine list is extensive, featuring the best wines from around the world and perfectly suited to the delicious dishes. Seasonality is extremely important at Gino’s, and the dishes are created using fresh produce and the very best ingredients. With a beautiful dining room, alfresco dining area and spectacular ambience, Gino’s continues to entice visitors across the East Midlands and beyond. Food served: Tuesday to Saturday: 12.00noon to 10.00pm Sunday: Lunch 12.00noon - 4.00pm & Pizza 4.00pm - 10.00pm Gino’s Pear Tree 8 Church Hill, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire LE12 8RT Tel: (01509) 890 243 www.ginospeartree.net

FINE DINING GUIDE

ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

HOTEL MAIYANGO

THE LIGHTHOUSE

HAMBLETON HALL

City Centre, Leicester

Kibworth, Leicestershire

Hambleton, Rutland

New head chef Nick Wilson has created a buzz of excitement at Maiyango since his recent arrival.

Providing exquisite seafood, The Lighthouse at Kibworth Beauchamp offers a luxurious and refined dining experience. Receiving the coveted accolade of Bib Gourmand in September 2013, The Lighthouse has proven its credentials as a pre-eminent culinary destination in Leicestershire, delivering succulent dishes and delightful desserts.

Summer Breaks in Rutland

Having spent several years working under acclaimed celebrity chef Jean – Christophe Novelli. Wilson rose to head up Michelin – starred restaurant, Les Saveurs. Mayfair. Wilson’s menu is flavour packed, innovative and offers a fantastic selection of dishes for allergy sufferers, veggies and vegans who are sometimes overlooked by restaurants. One of our favourite dishes from the current menu is; fillet of seabass, chorizo, aubergine and olive fricassee, chargrilled fennel and sundried tomato reduction, this dish is just one of the many offering a variety of flavours and spices, which as Wilson quoted, ‘encapsulates Leicester’s melting pot’. If sweets are more your fancy; how about this indulgent treat; Chocolate textures, milk chocolate shake, white chocolate and cardamom ice cream, dark chocolate brownie, cocoa nib tuile, sounds absolutely divine! With the hotel also offering The Glass bar and The Gallery available for private hire, guests can hold their own private event with a bespoke menu, whilst revelling in the panoramic views across the historical landmarks of Leicester.

Billed as a ‘Seafood Restaurant & more’, owners Sarah and Lino supply an intriguing mixture of tapas-style nibbles and beautifully prepared fish alongside a smaller selection of meat and vegetarian options. A light, fresh and contemporary maritime themed interior provides the ideal background to relax and enjoy your meal whilst the passionate staff share their pride and infectious enthusiasm for the culinary delights they create for every guest. Indulge yourself in The Lighthouse experience with the added benefit of some wonderful promotions and offers. Thursday Paella Nights transports you to the streets of Spain, allowing you to share wonderfully fresh morsels with friends and family. Sitting on The Captain’s Table permits you to set your guidelines and let The Lighthouse staff do the rest, giving you their favourite dishes for £35 per person, making it simply the best way to eat. With the recent introduction of ‘Midweek Treats’ at the Lighthouse, diners can catch a quick treat after work with a variety of nibbles and a bottle of house wine for the very reasonable price of £25 for two people. Children dine for free from 6-7pm between Tuesday-Friday at The Lighthouse, offering a family friendly environment that any age group will relish.

OFFER ENDS SEPTEMBER 2014 Available Sunday to Thursday £205.00 per person, per night to include: Standard Double Bedroom, 3 Courses from our new À La Carte Dinner Menu and full Hambleton Breakfast. Limited availability, based on 2 people sharing a room, excludes Bank Holidays. Enjoy our Gourmet 6 Course Tasting Menu on one night if you stay 2 nights or more. Favourite English Country Hotel Condé Nast Traveller Gold List

‘As Good As It Gets’ Harden’s Guide

Food Served: Monday to Saturday: 12.30pm - 3.00pm & 6.30pm - 9.30pm Sunday: 6.00pm - 9.00pm Open for cocktails and drinks till late, 7 days a week.

Food Served: Tuesday to Saturday from 6.00pm

Spectacular surroundings A warm welcome Supremely comfortable and stylish rooms Dining heaven

Hotel Maiyango 13-21 St Nicholas Place, Leicester LE1 4LD Tel: (0116) 251 8898 www.maiyango.com

The Lighthouse No.9 Station Street, Kibworth Beauchamp LE8 0LN Tel: (0116) 279 6260 www.lighthousekibworth.co.uk

Hambleton Hall Hotel & Restaurant Hambleton, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8TH Tel: (01572) 756 991 Email: hotel@hambletonhall.com www.hambletonhall.com

PERKINS

HART’S

MERCHANTS RESTAURANT

Plumtree, Nottingham

City Centre, Nottingham

Nottingham

Set in Plumtree’s beautiful former railway building amidst the rolling Nottinghamshire countryside, Perkins Restaurant has twice been named the Good Food Guide’s East Midlands Restaurant of the Year. Situated just ten minutes from the city centre, Perkins is committed to locality, seasonality and responsibility.

Hart’s in Nottingham is the city’s most successful up-market eatery. With over 15 years experience providing a flawless service and stunning British cuisine, Hart’s possesses a calming and peaceful setting so difficult to find in a city, truly setting the standard for diners and guests.

Head Chef Sarah Newham leads a talented and innovative kitchen using ingredients sourced close to the restaurant’s doorstep, the nearest being Perkins’ very own smokehouse located in the restaurant grounds.

With a menu selection to intrigue even the most seasoned diner, Hart’s has something for everyone. The stunning Gourmet Corner served on Friday and Saturday night’s à la carte menu, is perfect for that extra special occasion.

Perkins’ Prix Fixe is excellent value, often including wonderful slow braised beef from nearby Clipston-on-the Wolds, Belvoir game and home-cured Gravadlax. For Perkins’ wine list, the comparison couldn’t be starker, as co-owner David Perkins works hard to reflect the most diverse international offerings possible.

Situated above the restaurant is Hart’s Upstairs, catering for the needs of larger parties. Accommodating up to 100 guests, it is one of the finest venues for your private party or wedding.

Renowned for their Friday steak night, Perkins ensure you will have the perfect start to the weekend. Alternatively, enjoy a wonderfully fresh breakfast on Saturday morning between 10am and 11:30am. Browse the weekend newspapers over delicious coffees and a classical cooked breakfast comprising of sausages, bacon, eggs, tomatoes and mushrooms. Finish your weekend as you started by visiting Perkins for Sunday lunch and choose from the finest local pork, beef, chicken and vegetables with all the trimmings.

Located next door is Hart’s Hotel, boasting award-winning architecture design by Julian Marsh and opened in 2003. Each room is individually designed by Mrs. Hart, bespoke and designed to cater to your every desire, the hotel exhibits luxury at its best. Combined with the quaint garden and serene surroundings which mimics the countryside, yet situated only a short stroll from the city, this hotel is in an idyllic location where guests can relax in true style.

Perkins’ Old Waiting Room houses up to 26 guests, making it the ideal venue for celebrating something special or just getting together for a much needed catch-up. If your party is even larger, Perkins’ Carriage Hall can hold 200 guests and is perfect for weddings.

Food Served: Monday to Saturday: ALL DAY from 12.00noon Sunday: 12.00noon - 5.00pm (last order 3.30pm) Breakfast: served on Saturday mornings À la carte: Every day EXCEPT SUNDAY

Food Served: Lunch: 12.00noon - 2.00pm Dinner: Monday to Saturday 7.00pm - 10.30pm Dinner: Sunday 7.00pm - 9.00pm Pre-theatre supper 6.00pm Afternoon Tea served in the Park Bar, Hart’s Hotel 12-6pm daily (pre booking essential)

Perkins Restaurant Station Road, Plumtree, Nottingham NG12 5NA Tel: (0115) 937 3695 www.perkins-family.co.uk

Hart’s Nottingham Standard Hill, Park Row, Nottingham NG1 6GN Tel: (0115) 988 1900 www.hartsnottingham.co.uk

Quote “Aspirational” to receive

10%

off your bill Merchants Restaurant 29-31 High Pavement, Nottingham NG1 1HE Tel: (0115) 852 32 32 Email: reservations@lacemarkethotel.co.uk www.lacemarkethotel.co.uk

FINE DINING GUIDE

ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

MARCO PIERRE WHITE STEAKHOUSE BAR & GRILL

CHINO LATINO

THE RIVERBANK

City Centre, Nottingham

West Bridgford, Nottingham

Pioneers in fusion cuisine and established over ten years ago, Chino Latino has become synonymous with fine dining in Nottingham, and has been a leader on the culinary landscape in the city since opening its doors over a decade ago.

The Riverbank Bar & Kitchen, based on Trent Bridge with stunning Riverside views, offers sophisticated dishes in the beautifully designed restaurant, simplified but equally delicious light meals in the bar area and a great range of foodie produce.

The award winning team are masters in their craft with their delicate menu highlighting the best of Pan-Asia’s culinary offering, whilst also being laced with Latino flourishes from Peruvian cuisine.

Outside boasts an extensive ultra-chic, all-weather terrace with wild-flame heaters and sunken wind-free enclaves to keep you snug and warm in winter and all of which is shaded from the sun and showers during our glorious English summers.

City Centre, Nottingham

One of the most stylish restaurants in Nottingham, the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill provides a lively ambience and modern dining experience. Part of the critically acclaimed chef’s spectacular selection of restaurants, the menu has been personally chosen to provide diners with a delicious range of meals created from the very best locally sourced produce. Part of the city’s Alea Casino conveniently located in Nottingham city centre, the vibrant interior is striking, and the contemporary furnishings add to the atmosphere. The restaurant has received fantastic reviews from diners and critics alike, especially for its choice of premium steaks which are mouth-wateringly excellent. Complementing the food is a fantastically diverse champagne and wine menu, as well as a cocktail list that guarantees something for everyone. The focus of the restaurant is on the complete dining experience and Marco’s own mission statement is to “feed people at the right price within the right environment and with the right level of service”. The Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill certainly goes above and beyond this and is not to be missed.

Highlights from the adept menu include signature black cod with spicy miso, sizzling sirloin steak on hot stones, and freshly caught sushi and sashimi. Starters range from £4.00 - £12.00 with main courses from £18.00 - £29.00. The cocktail menu is where the Latino element really comes alive in a veritable showcase of South American tipples. Signature cocktails include; ‘The Rum Re-Fashioned’, ‘Chilli and Ginger Caiprinha’ and the ‘Elderflower and Mint Margarita’. With an ethos of LOVE, SHARE & ENJOY – Be prepared to expect a heady mix of wild, exotic flavours, and zingy Latino cocktails for all of your party to share.

The culinary team is headed by Mark Osborne, a chef who places a great deal of importance on creating delicious food that celebrates the great variety of seasonal and local produce available in his innovative menus. The brasserie-style food covers everything from the very best fish ‘n’ chips, to exquisitely crafted seafood dishes, world tapas, gourmet burgers and an ever changing selection of seasonal creations. Indulgent food and a fantastic atmosphere is very much the order of the day and guests can relax in the bar area, entertained by live music on a weekly basis. The venue offers a stunning Gallery Function Room available for private hire; perfect for wedding receptions, Christmas parties, conferences, dinner dances and drinks receptions.

Mon - Thur: Lunch 12.15pm - 3.00pm & Dinner 5.00pm - 10.00pm Fri & Sat: Lunch 12.15pm - 3.00pm & Dinner 5.00pm - 10.30pm Sunday: Lunch 12.30pm - 8.30pm

Lunch: Monday - Saturday 12.00noon -10.00pm Dinner: Monday - Saturday 18.00pm -10.30pm Sunday: Closed

Food served: Monday to Saturday: 12.00noon - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - 9.30pm Sunday: 12.00noon - 8.00pm

Alea Nottingham 108 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham NG1 6LF Tel: (0115) 872 0602 www.aleacasinos.com

Chino Latino 41 Maid Marian Way, Nottingham NG1 6GD Tel: (0115) 947 7444 www.chinolatino.eu

The Riverbank Bar & Kitchen Trent Bridge, Nottingham NG2 2GS Tel: (0115) 986 7960 Email: info@riverbanknotts.co.uk

WORLD SERVICE RESTAURANT

IBERICO WORLD TAPAS

OPULENCE RESTAURANT & GRILL

Nottingham

Derby

The perfect combination of heritage, tradition and modern elegance, World Service is one of Nottingham’s most innovative and elegant dining offerings. The restaurant and lounge bar are given their own personality, using unique furniture and decoration to reference both traditional and contemporary design, as well as different cultures from all over the globe.

Iberico World Tapas offers wonderful Spanish cuisine in the heart of Nottingham. Creating a wide range of tapas style dishes with the very best ingredients, Iberico offers its diners delicious and varied food drawing inspiration from a range of different cultures, including diverse Moroccan and Japanese flavours, all delivered in their stylish restaurant.

Focussing on fresh, seasonal produce and an ever changing menu of eclectic global dishes, the restaurant is characterised by the outstanding quality of its food. Diners benefit from the choice of set menus, the variety of the à la carte selection and specially designed celebration menus.

The atmospheric vaulted restaurant is the perfect place to provide with diners a taste of the culinary team’s exciting flavours and the tapas dishes make for a great way to sample some of the most delicious cheeses, cured meats, fish dishes and classic Spanish creations.

The historic setting of Newdigate House boasts a traditional English walled garden, perfect for al fresco dining and offers a tranquil escape from Nottingham’s busy centre. The lounge bar provides the ideal accompaniment to a delicious meal. With a range of traditional and modern cocktails, a wide range of spirits and over 200 different wines, the lounge bar has seen World Service recognised as one of the city’s best destinations for both great dining and drinks. World Service also offers private dining spaces, available for a wide range of events and allowing guests to celebrate their event in style and comfort.

The restaurant, in the city’s atmospheric Lace Market, is the perfect place to spend a relaxing evening, surrounded by the delightful sights and smells of wonderful food, great wine and the very best customer service. Diners typically order a selection of dishes, enjoying the chance to taste so many different culinary creations at once. The dishes can be shared and enjoyed by the whole party, promoting the warm and lively atmosphere of the underground eatery and ensuring that the restaurant continues to be acclaimed by patrons and critics alike. Iberico is also the county’s only Bib Gourmand entry in the 2013 Michelin guide. In November 2013, Iberico opened their second restaurant, located at 9-11 Bold Lane, Derby DE1 3NT. Tel: 01332 345 456. The new restaurant is in a superb location as part of the city’s Cathedral Quarter and is surrounded by historical landmarks and boasts fantastic transport links.

Quote “Aspirational” to receive

10%

Food Served: Monday - Friday: 12.00noon - 2.00pm & 7.00pm - 10.00pm Saturday: 12.00noon - 2.00pm & 6.30pm - 10.00pm Sunday: 12.00noon - 3.30pm CLOSED Sunday night except for bank holidays and throughout December

Food Served: Monday - Friday: 12.00noon - 2.00pm & 5.30pm - 10.00pm Saturday: 12.00noon - 2.00pm & 6.00pm - 10.00pm

World Service Restaurant Newdigate House, Castlegate, Nottingham NG1 6AF Tel: (0115) 847 5587 Email: info@worldservicerestaurant.com

Iberico Tapas The Shire Hall, High Pavement, Lace Market, Nottingham NG1 1HN Tel: (0115) 941 0410 Email: nottingham@ibericotapas.com

off your bill Opulence Restaurant & Grill 16 St Mary’s Gate, Derby DE1 3JR Tel: (01332) 54 60 80 Email: reservations@cathedralquaterhotel.com www.cathedralquater.com

FINE DINING

MERCHANTS RESTAURANT Innovative and Sophisticated Dining

Renowned for its elegant yet relaxed dining experience, Merchants at the Lace Market Hotel is one of Nottingham’s premier restaurants. An integral part of the city’s dynamic Lace Market, the restaurant is well-known for its innovative, sophisticated food and understated yet attentive service.

The 10-course tasting menu gave guests the chance to sample a range of culinary delights alongside fine wines from around the world. With a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, the evening was a fantastic success and gave guests the perfect opportunity to sample Richard Donohue’s bespoke menu.

New head chef, Richard Donohue, is passionate about creating a menu that reflects his enthusiasm and innovation. His career has taken him from top London restaurants, to far-flung destinations including Helsinki, California and New Zealand, drawing influence from all of them.

The attentive staff were on hand to describe each course and the accompanying wine as it was brought out. The meal began with an amuse-bouche, before Jerusalem artichoke soup with red Leicester toast was served.

One of his most high-profile appointments was at French Laundry in Napa Valley which boasts three Michelin stars and has twice been named “Best Restaurant in the World” by Restaurant magazine. Richard Donohue has also had experience working under top celebrity chef Marco Pierre White. His various experiences have given him plenty of insight into what makes a truly great menu. Working with the best local and seasonal produce, Donohue’s creative flair creates exciting menus which offer a unique take on modern British dining. Every detail of every dish is carefully thought through, enthusing the senses and delighting the taste buds. Donohue has brought in sous chef Andy Wells, with whom he started his career. Wells has also worked in numerous highly-respected gastro-pubs and restaurants, and the two have a good understanding as well as an excellent working relationship. Earlier this year, Merchants hosted a spectacular thank you dinner for its clients and supporters. Beginning in the stylish Saint Bar, heavenly pre-dinner cocktails were served by the highly trained staff.

Some of the international influences were apparent in dishes such as scallops served with green curry, pink ginger lychee and cous cous, which reflected Donohue’s experiences in Asia. This was certainly a menu with a great deal of variety with other dishes including sticky mallard breast and leg, mushroom tea blancmange and passion fruit jelly with sprouting beach fungi. The meal concluded with a sumptuous rhubarb semi-freddo with pistachio cream and saffron shortbread before a selection of award-winning cheeses were served. The thank-you dinner was just one of many events hosted at Merchants, with menus regularly refreshed to reflect seasonality and innovative new flavours. With ever-changing à la carte and tasting menus, a trip to Merchants is always full of new and exciting culinary surprises. With Richard Donohue at the helm and growing renown throughout the county and nation as a whole, Merchants is set to maintain its position as one of Nottingham’s most innovative and sophisticated restaurants.

Quote “Aspirational” to receive

10%

off your bill

Opening Times Lunch Tuesday to Friday 1200 - 1400 hrs Afternoon Tea Saturday 1200 - 1500 hrs Dinner Tuesday to Thursday 1900 - 2130 hrs Friday and Saturday 1800 - 2200 hrs

To make a reservation, please call 0115 852 3232, email stay@lacemarkethotel.co.uk or visit www.thefinessecollection.com follow the links to the Lace Market Hotel and select ‘Food & Drink’ for further information.

Serving up a gorgeous selection of dishes Bramleys Brasserie promises diners a sophisticated culinary experience in a dynamic, modern space. Taking its name from the iconic Bramley apple, the brasserie is nestled inside the De Vere Venues Orchard Hotel. Starting with the ripest apples from the orchard behind the hotel, the Bramleys Brasserie chefs place their emphasis on the local sourcing of fresh, relevant ingredients. As a result the menus they create give a taste of the seasons as they pass. A new A La Carte menu offers the palate a range of new sensations. Guests might begin their journey with crispy pig’s head accompanied by a wild garlic mayonnaise gribiche before moving on to braised shoulder of lamb with smoked mash, watercress and a caramelised onion puree. After that, and if there is room, they can plump for sticky toffee pudding served with milk sorbet, caramelised banana and topped with a salted toffee sauce. Across the piece there is a wonderful balance between hearty British fayre and more delicate, nuanced dishes.

Fish-lovers are spoilt for choice when faced with the option of spiced monkfish, cauliflower, grape and apple curry or sea trout, pan-fried in brown butter with shallots, capers, parsley and shrimp. Vegetarians are not left out. They could easily be tempted, for example, by a wild garlic risotto served with crispy onions and crème fraiche. This menu showcases not only the skill of the culinary team but all that is best about British cuisine and the influences it draws from other cultures. It holds a strong, local character and those light, golden Bramley apples play a clever cameo role from starter to finish. Set in a delightful parkland setting, Bramleys Brasserie serves as an oasis of calm in which to unwind with a drink after a conference or meeting. As a contemporary eating venue it is a very welcome addition to Nottingham’s thriving restaurant scene. The innovative design, mouth-watering menu and great location make for an ideal combination.

A THREE COURSE MEAL AT

off

Treat yourself to an evening meal in Bramleys and take advantage of a 25% discount of the total bill, including food and drink. Quote voucher code ASP2014BB to redeem this voucher in Bramleys Brasserie, The Orchard Hotel, Beeston Lane, Nottingham NG7 2RJ. To make a booking email bramleys@deverevenues.co.uk or call 0115 876 0881. Terms and conditions: Valid for up to 6 people, in the evenings only, from food and drink from the A La Carte menu until 14th October 2014. Certain dates are not included, please check when you make your booking. Voucher must be mentioned on booking and presented on arrival. Voucher not valid for residents. Voucher can be used once only and has no cash value.

Bramleys Brasserie invites diners, delegates and hotel guests to spend time in their relaxed setting, enjoying the very best service and sumptuous food so typical of De Vere Venues across the country.

OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH FROM: 12-3pm for lunch and from 6-10pm for dinner.

For more information Orchard Hotel, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RJ Tel: 01158 760 881 Email: bramleys@deverevenues.co.uk

AFTERNOON

TEA AVAILABLE AT

£19.95 pp / £24.95 pp INCLUDING CHAMPAGNE

T 0115 872 0602 E enquiries@mpwnottingham.com W mpwnottingham.com Wollaton Street, Nottingham NG1 5FW

Marco Pierre White Nottingham • Follow us on

MPW Nottingham

Over 18s Only | Challenge 21 Policy in Operation | Know When To Stop Before You Start, visit gambleaware.co.uk | drinkaware.co.uk ALEA Nottingham is a part of London Clubs International Ltd – a Caesars Entertainment Company

Great Food and Hospitality in a Grand Setting Hotel Maiyango is Leicester’s finest boutique hotel and restaurant, soon to take centre stage in the city’s brand new development, Jubilee Square. £4 million has been invested into rejuvenating the area into a public square with sprawling lawns, colourful trees and contemporary paving. Set for completion later in 2014, Jubilee Square will provide Hotel Maiyango with the surroundings it has always deserved to complement the stylish interior and world-class cuisine. Jubilee Square, named after the Queen’s visit to Leicester during her Diamond Jubilee year, will feature new seating and architectural lighting to show off features of the buildings fronting the new square, including Wygston’s House, the oldest complete timber-framed building in the city. The square aims to provide a link between the modern city centre and old town with its historic gems including Leicester Cathedral and the Guildhall. Offering panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace, Hotel Maiyango provides its guests with a memorable stay in the heart of Leicester city centre. Inside, the décor is elegant with bespoke wood furnishings, rich fabrics and intimate lighting. Each of the 14 rooms have been thoughtfully designed with a modern and sophisticated finish. With spacious interiors and comfortable surroundings, a stay at Hotel Maiyango is guaranteed to be relaxing and enjoyable. One of the main draws of Hotel Maiyango is the sublime restaurant which has garnered an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence and has been recognised by ‘The Good Food Guide’. Ideal for a working lunch or special evening meal, the restaurant has a quirky, intimate feel that is echoed throughout the hotel. Diners can be assured that they are in good hands and the service is always friendly and attentive. Hotel Maiyango has recently appointed Nick Wilson as their new Executive Head Chef; a move that has seen the restaurant’s excellent culinary reputation improve even further. Wilson began his career at the prestigious 5 star, 3 AA Rosette Glen Eagles Hotel, before joining the Four Seasons Hotel in London as a Sous Chef. He progressed under the tutelage of celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, rising to

become head chef at Les Saveurs de Jean-Christophe Novelli in Mayfair, where they attained 4 AA Rosettes and a Michelin Star. Wilson has created his collection of seasonal menus using the diversity of Leicester as his main inspiration for the tastes and flavours. Wilson’s commitment to providing a gourmet experience extends beyond the usual carnivores and includes strong offerings for allergy sufferers, vegans and veggies alike with a range of tailored dishes and tasting menus. As part of their Maiyango Loves Local commitment, Nick is tasked with sourcing the very best suppliers in Leicestershire with a focus on quality and traceability. Seasonal ingredients naturally play a central role in the menu development at Maiyango which is exciting for the diners and foodies alike. Wilson said “I love the feeling that Maiyango creates as soon as you walk in, it’s vibrant for the senses and it has a soul. I am keen to take inspiration from the fantastic melting pot that is Leicester and develop menus and dishes that encapsulate the people and surroundings. I want my food to surprise and entertain but be accessible at the same time.” Currently the Maiyango team are busy creating a quirky al fresco dining concept which will extend out of the restaurant and launch in the summer with the backdrop setting of Jubilee Square. Our sneek peek at the ideas and menus suggests there may be a queue forming at the first sign of some warm weather!

For more information please conctact Hotel Maiyango on (0116) 251 8898

www.maiyango.com 96

While many businesses struggled during the economic downturn, Champions (UK) plc has continued to go from strength to strength since its establishment in 2003. With five unique in-house departments working in harmony, the company provides its clients with comprehensive services to boost their brand and provide bottom line results. The recession significantly affected businesses in a wide variety of sectors and it took something special to weather the storm and continue to trade strongly. Champions (UK) plc was one of the companies that managed this feat and was named in The Sunday Times’ ‘Fast Track 100’ for being one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the UK. Individual expertise in PR, marketing, creative, events and celebrity management gives Champions (UK) plc the edge over companies that only specialise in one niche area. Traditionally, when businesses look at their branding they call in a media buying agency, a separate digital marketing company, a separate PR agency and a sampling agency – various different teams and persons to manage as well as brief, all vying for extra budget from the client.

one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the UK

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One of the central principles of Champions (UK) plc is to make life as easy as possible for their clients. Businesses go exclusively to Champions (UK) plc instead of relying on a different company for each service, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Rather than closing themselves off, Champions (UK) plc is proud to have a range of clients, both large and small, utilising each of their departments to give them the best overall results. Champions (UK) plc was founded by Midlands-born Matthew Hayes, along with his parents, in 2003. Setting up a stronghold in the heart of the Nottinghamshire countryside, Matthew wanted to outshine other agencies in the industry, offering something that was completely unique. Today, the firm boasts some of the country’s biggest brands amongst its various clients, including frozen foods specialists Farmfoods, thermal sock brand Heat Holders and leading e-cigarette company multiCIG.

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PUBLIC RELATIONS

MARKETING

CELEBRITY

CREATIVE

EVENTS

Matthew explained the benefits of Champions (UK) plc’s streamlined approach: “Utilising various channels under one roof means that we can effectively identify, create and deliver a brand’s key messaging and then distribute it to all channels at once. Having this managed all from one place means it is more cost effective, maximising return on investment.” Champions (UK) plc is a local East Midlands business at heart, but it also boasts a national, and even global, reach. Over 10 years ago, when many businesses were looking to establish themselves in the ever-expanding metropolis of London, Champions (UK) plc bucked the trend and committed itself to remaining in the East Midlands. Today, the company continues to benefit from its central location, and attracts an ever-growing client base from up and down the country. As modern technology and the internet continues to play an increasingly important role in business and our lives in general, Champions (UK) plc continue to keep on top of trends. They have a dedicated social media team who look after a range of accounts and push the brands they manage out to a wide audience of followers.

“...we can effectively identify, create & deliver a brand’s key messaging & then distribute it to all channels at once.”

Matthew Hayes said: “Events has been an integral part of the business since the start and this is an area in which we are enjoying a great deal of success. Each year, more and more companies are entrusting us with the management of their event and this is testament to the exceptional quality we are offering.”

Champions (UK) plc utilises its wealth of resources Champions (UK) plc’s biggest annual event is the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship, one of golf’s fastest growing tournaments. Much more than a run-of-the-mill golf championship, the event welcomes over 10,000 guests, as well as some of the country’s biggest stars, and boasts a big garden party atmosphere. The event is solely run by Champions (UK) plc and the company utilises its wealth of resources from PR and marketing to celebrity booking and events management. Another string to Champions (UK) plc’s bow is the celebrity management side of the business. With access to some of the biggest stars in the country, Champions (UK) plc can pair the brands they represent with the celebrities they manage to create lasting partnerships that are beneficial to both parties. Some of the high-profile names on their client list include England legend Peter Shilton OBE, golfing great Tony Jacklin CBE, Ashes-winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and entertainment star Sherrie Hewson.

With an extensive list of contacts, Champions (UK) plc have booked their various acts on some of the nation’s biggest television programmes including Strictly Come Dancing, I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, A League of their Own, A Question of Sport and 8 Out of 10 Cats. Their strong relationships with major broadcasters, publications and other media outlets ensure their celebrity clients are presented with a range of opportunities to boost their profile. With quality staff specialising in each aspect of the business, Champions (UK) plc ensure they devote equal attention to each of their departments. 2013 was a seminal year in Champions (UK) plc’s history and the company had the privilege of being named as one of the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’. The brand agency has continued strongly in 2014 and is projected to have another record-breaking year.

Named as one of the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’

Interacting with other businesses has been a central principle of Champions (UK) plc since the beginning and the events management side of the business has been crucial. Working in partnership with a range of local and national publications, the company is the chief organiser of various business and sports awards across the Midlands. Champions (UK) plc also organises business clubs that encourage interaction between companies and promote a strong, tightly-knit business community.

For more information on the ways in which Champions (UK) plc can boost the power of your brand, please call 08453 31 30 31 or email info@championsukplc.com

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

THE VENUE THAT WORKS FOR YOU Located just minutes from Leicester’s vibrant city centre, College Court is one of the East Midlands’ leading conference and events venues. College Court boasts a 123 bedroom on-site hotel with a selection of standard and executive rooms. Each guest benefits from immaculate service and exceptional facilities ensuring that a stay at College Court is always enjoyable. As well as this, the restaurant, The Knighton, can accommodate 168 people and offers the highest quality in catering in an environment that echoes the iconic sixties design of College Court itself.

Quite simply... All inclusive The purpose built conference facilities provide ideal event spaces for between two and 160 delegates. With state-of-the-art facilities including extensive high quality onsite AV equipment and click and connect high speed Wi-Fi, College Court is the number one venue for modern conferences. The in-house AV support team are committed to making sure everything runs smoothly. Our passionate and experienced team are on-hand to offer any support and guidance you may need.

What makes College Court different? When you choose College Court, the team fundamentally understand your objectives and will deliver an outstanding event. Together the staff have over 200 years’ experience delivering conferences and events so you can be assured that your event is in good hands. College Court is a haven of tranquillity, surrounded by established trees, landscaped gardens and quiet residential streets.

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Don’t take it from us, this is what College Court’s “Brilliant food and service, clients say... a very comfy night’s “...for me the fantastic company within a great environment made for a brilliant event at a great facility”

“I just wanted to thank you and all your staff for providing us with a fantastic weekend. All our delegates were delighted with all aspects of the venue and staff, who could not have been more helpful”

sleep, shower to shake me awake in the morning and a great breakfast; everything you could want from a night’s stay”

“...it was the attention to little details which was thoroughly impressive. The venue definitely has your stamp on it”

“The meal quality & service were impeccable”

“I have attended many conferences and other events as part of my academic life but never has the quality of food been so high”

Customer feedback st atistics:

Bedroom Comfort 95.4% of guests marke d4

or 5 Standard of Bedrooms and Bathroom Cleanlines s 5 - 95.4% 4 - 4.5% Not one guest marke d the standard of the room cleanliness as an ything less than 4 Reception 97.7% said 4 or 5 Restaurant 88.37% said 4 or 5

Please contact a member of our team to book your show round of our facilities and see for yourself how College Court can benefit your next conference or event.

Bar 90.6% said 4 or 5 Conference Services 100% said 4 or 5

Like us on facebook: Contact us Tel: 0116 244 9669 CollegeCourtLeicester Email: info@collegecourt.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: www.collegecourt.co.uk

@TheLeicsVenue

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Cyber... The gathering storm A new and significant commercial risk is emerging which has the potential to threaten all businesses. ‘Cyber risk’ has become the recognised terminology and it is a vast and intensely specialist field spanning from social media misuse to BYOD (bring your own device), hackers to malware, ecommerce to data breaches, and many more. There is some confusion in the marketplace as to the coverage provided by traditional commercial policies held by SME’s and if they will cover cyber risks, particularly in respect of third party liability and business interruption, with

exclusions in place that often deny coverage for cyber related events. Whilst the market is changing and there are some specific cyber liability products available to meet the ever growing demand, none at present have been designed for SME’s until now. Cyber AMI has been developed by Qdos and Berea, and is designed specifically with the SME in mind and offers full peace of mind and protection for a wide range of cyber risks to keep the modern business fully covered against newly emerging threats in addition to helping risk manage and educate.

The need for Cyber Cover The government is publishing warnings on a near daily basis on the threats posed to the private sector due to hackers, malware and employee actions that could result in a data breach or cyber security incident. New regulations will soon be formalised by the EU, presenting significant penalties to any business that incurs a data breach. It will always be cheaper to prevent a breach rather than clean up after the event.

87%

Of small businesses had a security breach in the last year (up from 76%)

£50k

Average median cost of a small business’ worst security breach.

57%

Of small business security breaches were due to staff (up from 45%)

Data from: PwC Information Security Breaches Survey 2013

It is widely expect that larger organisations will soon demand their supply chain provide proof of protection when handling confidential or restricted information. The effect of a single targeted data breach could lead to the collapse of your client. The costs involved in managing the fallout cannot be overstated, where these could easily amount to more than your client can afford.

“Government departments and agencies are working ... to ensure the consideration of cyber security becomes an integral part of corporate governance and risk-management processes.” Francis Maude | Minister for the Cabinet Office

BBC News Online, 3rd Dec 2012

Cyber AMI Awareness, Management & Insurance

What we cover

The Cyber AMI Portal

www.cyber-ami.com

Cyber Legal: Employee dispute

Cyber Legal: Provider dispute

1st Party Cyber Business Interruption

Data Breach Penalty Defence

Cyber Crisis Management

Data Extortion

Multimedia Liability

Reputation Restoration

Data Restoration

3rd Party Cyber Business Interruption

DIAMOND

PLATINUM

WHAT YOU’LL GET

GOLD

+ One-stop cyber risk management

3rd Party Cyber BI, Data Restoration and Reputation Restoration costs*: Data and reputation restoration and third-party business interruption. Multimedia Liability costs: A member of staff misuses a company owned/operated social media account, potentially libeling a competitor. Cyber Extortion costs: A hacker breaches your system, steals confidential information and demands payment for its destruction. Crisis Management and Notifcation†: You suffer a data breach and must understand/manage its fallout. They may also need to notify the affected clients.

FROM £495

FROM £345

Data Breach Penalty Defence costs: Should the Information Commissioner’s Office levy a penalty we will defend their case and support subsequent appeals.

FROM £195

The Portal provides risk management systems, preferential rates on security software and access to export support helplines. Using the systems will protect your business and increases the likelihood any insurance cover will operate correctly.

Cyber Legal Expenses Insurance: You have a contract dispute with an outsourced provider, or an (ex) employee is in breach of covenant.

1st Party Cyber Business Interruption: Your online shop is closed for 10 days following a cyber attack, causing significantly loss of operating revenue.

With prices starting from just £195.00 contact us to today to ensure your business is protected from the threat of cyber risk. www.qdosunderwriting.com 01455 852 112 insurance@qdosunderwriting.com

Qdos UNDERWRITING

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

INHERITANCE TAX WHY PLANNING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE A DRAG...

When the subject of Inheritance Tax (IHT) comes up, most people would prefer not to leave a huge party political donation to an unknown, unnamed Chancellor of the Exchequer upon their death. The subject of dying (and of course Inheritance Tax) can often make for an uncomfortable conversation but one that simply should not be avoided as more and more people are falling foul of unnecessary tax charges.

The inheritance tax net Fiscal drag is an expression that has become very popular in the past few years. Put simply, it occurs where allowances, exemptions or tax bands do not increase in line with some measure of inflation, meaning that more and more people end up paying more tax. We have seen it in respect of inheritance tax (IHT), where the nil-rate band has been frozen at the level of £325,000 since 2009/10 and will remain so up to and including the 2017/18 tax year. It is estimated that this freezing will mean that 650,000 extra families will be dragged into the inheritance tax net, even allowing for the transferable nil-rate band on death. This is quite a substantial number, but, turning it on its head, it means that there are 650,000 additional families who will need advice about IHT. Even if the nil-rate band does eventually start to increase again after April 2018, such increases will be in line with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), which, historically, has been at a lower level than the previously used Retail Prices Index (RPI).

Inheritance tax – the basics IHT is often referred to as a voluntary tax. This is due to the fact that a good, balanced approach to financial planning can mitigate or avoid it and ensure hard-earned wealth can pass

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to loved ones after you have gone. Assets of any amount can normally pass on death to a surviving spouse or civil partner without any IHT being levied. In any other circumstances, only the first £325,000 (the nil rate band) is left to beneficiaries without any IHT being payable. This nil rate band can also be increased by any transferable nil rate band from a predeceased spouse or civil partner. Any amounts not covered by the available nil rate band are taxed at 40%.

Example: The following example assumes an estate of £900,000, with three beneficiaries, and one nil band available: Estate on death Nil rate band Estate subject to IHT

£900,000 (£325,000) £575,000

IHT @ 40%

(£230,000)

Net estate

£670,000

Amount to each beneficiary

£223,333

The best and most successful IHT planning exercise is, of course, to spend your last £1 just as you take your last breath but even the most genius financial planner would struggle to achieve this! At the other extreme, the least successful plan is to do nothing, which may be an option, but one that the taxman benefits handsomely from. Unless plans are made in advance, IHT may take a large bite out of what you can leave your loved ones.

How to mitigate inheritance tax It is likely that a number of different strategies will be put in place to help mitigate IHT with many things impacting on the

balance of these. Spending hard earned money and enjoying the fruits of your labour is highly recommended as a starting point. Life assurance cover wrapped in a suitable trust, aimed at providing your executors with a cash sum to settle any tax bill after your death should also be considered and whilst the cost of this increases with age, it will be part of any good plan for consideration. There are also a number of arrangements that offer IHT mitigation benefits for those who have accumulated large amounts of capital but who still need that capital to provide ongoing income. Loan Trusts and Discounted Gift Trusts both utilise single premium bonds as investment vehicles, which allow up to 5% per annum tax-deferred withdrawals to be taken for 20 years, each providing IHT benefits. In the case of a loan trust, clients would loan the initial capital to the trustees, who can then use it to invest for potential growth. They would have full access to the initial capital invested (the loan), but no access to the growth. At all times they are entitled to the full amount of the loan and this can be repaid on a regular basis or by single amounts on demand. Any growth on capital will be automatically outside their estate for UK IHT purposes. Discounted Gift Trusts allow clients to retain a predetermined right to regular withdrawals and these are deducted from the original gift into trust. The value of these withdrawals is immediately outside the estate for UK IHT purposes and this is referred to as the ‘discount’. The transfer into trust will be outside their estate, providing they survive seven years from making the gift into trust. Whilst one retains a right to ‘income’ under these schemes, it is not possible to benefit from any of the capital and one must be willing to give this away. In addition, any ‘income’ should be spent for it to fall out of the estate! With both these arrangements there are different tax consequences that will need to be considered before agreeing the best option – this is a complicated area but one in which a balanced and bespoke plan is required for each individual circumstance. It seems as though fiscal drag is here to stay. We will all have to get used to higher taxation…..and in these circumstances the need to get a plan in place to help protect wealth that has been accumulated will heighten even further. Ensuring that your affairs are in order now will not only bring you peace of mind but also create significant savings for your beneficiaries after your death.

To start planning for the future today, please contact:

What should I be asking myself? • Who do I want to benefit from my estate when I die? • Am I prepared to lose access to some or all of my estate now, so as to mitigate/eliminate the possibility of Inheritance Tax when I die? • Which of my current assets am I prepared/able to make gifts of now? • What about my Will? Do I have one, does it need reviewing? Have I made best use of Trusts? • What is my acceptable level of expenditure, either monthly or annually, to ensure the minimum of Inheritance Tax is paid on my death? • Is there any other pertinent information to consider, such as will I be spending capital or potentially receiving capital (for example from an Inheritance of my own)?

Our approach We will arrange an in-depth review of your estate and wider family requirements to gain a better understanding of your position in terms of IHT and the opportunities available to minimise taxation. Our advice does not have to be restricted to the mitigation of IHT. We are able to help you with your financial plans in every area of wealth building and protection.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

“WE RECOGNISE THAT OUR CLIENTS NEED TO KNOW THAT THEIR ESTATE PLANNING HAS BEEN FULLY CONSIDERED AND INTEGRATED WITHIN THEIR OTHER FINANCIAL NEEDS.” Murray Smith, Director

Tel: 0116 240 8700 Email: info@mattioli-woods.com www.mattioli-woods.com

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

PRE-NUPTIALS... ARE THEY WORTH THE PAPER THEY’RE WRITTEN ON? As most people know, a pre-nuptial is an agreement made by a couple before they marry concerning the ownership of their assets and how they should be distributed if the marriage fails. A post-nuptial agreement is exactly the same except that a post-nuptial agreement is made by a couple after they have married. Glynis Wright, Divorce Lawyer and Head of Practice at Glynis Wright Solicitors and Family Mediators based in the City Centre of Leicester says: “Pre and Post-nuptial agreements are going to gain in popularity and have real legal punch owing to proposals that are currently being made by the Law Commission that they should become legally binding. The Law Commission are promoting the concept of “QNups (Qualifying Nuptial Agreements) which will enable couples to contract out of the usual sharing of matrimonial assets on divorce.” As most people know, a pre-nuptial is an agreement made by a couple before they marry concerning the ownership of their assets and how they should be distributed if the marriage fails. A post-nuptial agreement is exactly the same except that a post-nuptial agreement is made by a couple after they have married. Some people object to pre and post nuptial agreements on the grounds that the agreements undermine the sanctity of marriage and the vows that are taken, “For better or for worse ...in sickness and in health...” Other people object to pre nuptial agreements saying that they are not “romantic” and that it is a sorry thing to be contemplating a marriage failing before the vows are uttered. Glynis says “These are commonly held views but there are alternative perspectives. For example, some might say pre nuptial agreements are an ethical solution where one party to the marriage has been gifted considerable family wealth or legacy interests and therefore feels a pressing need to protect their family’s gift. Alternatively, if one of both of the parties are entering second marriage, they may wish to ensure that the financial interests of any children from their first marriages are not eroded through a divorce settlement.”

The Law Commission’s latest report recommends and promotes the concept of the “QNup” (Qualifying Nutptial Agreement). This is a pre or post nuptial agreement that enables couples to ring fence their separate wealth ensuring it never falls into the marital pot for sharing provided that neither party or any child of the marriage is left in hardship as a result of the provisions of the agreement. Glynis says “This is a big change and gives far more scope and weight to nuptial agreements than has ever existed before“. The report from the Law Commission includes a draft Bill that if made into law will bring QNups into effect. However, for a QNup to fall in line with the Law Commission’s recommendations, important formalities have to be met. Therefore, clear advice and guidance from a specialist divorce lawyer is absolutely essential. But the upside is that couples will have autonomy and control over how their wealth is to be distributed in the event of a divorce. Glynis Wright Solicitors welcome this much needed policy shift and anticipate that there will be many more couples taking legal advice on nuptial agreements prior to their marriage or even after their marriage for a post nuptial. We are specialists in our field and would be more than happy to arrange a consultation with you if you would like to know more about QNups and whether they are right for you.

Currently pre and post-nups are not strictly enforceable or legally binding in the UK. So, if the marriage fails the Court will not have to be bound by the agreement and may overturn it. This has been a real problem for those who want an absolute assurance that their nuptial agreements will be water tight if tested. No lawyer has thus far been able to offer that comfort although it is true to say that more weight has been given to nuptial agreements in the divorce courts in recent times.

You can contact Glynis or one of her specialist lawyers at Glynis Wright Family Law Solicitors and Mediators on 0844 225 2790 or visit the website www.glyniswright.co.uk or email your enquiry to enquiries@glyniswright.co.uk

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MAZARS LLP – LEICESTER FAMILIAR FACES – NEW BRAND AND IDENTITY “WE RECOGNISED THAT WE NEEDED TO MAKE A BIG COMMITMENT TO THE CITY AND COUNTY, WHICH IS WHY WE HAVE INVESTED IN A FULL SERVICE OFFICE FROM DAY ONE” CHRIS DARLINGTON, LEICESTER MANAGING PARTNER

Mazars are pleased to announce that the 3 March 2014 marked the

opened its doors for business on the well known Meridian Business Park. completes the well documented and welcome return to the Leicester business community of Leicester Managing Partner Chris Darlington alongside fellow Partners, Bob Johnson, Steve English and David Hoose. This new and exciting venture will work closely with the long established and ever expanding Nottingham Midlands a major player in the region with ambitious growth plans. Chris Darlington commented: “It is hard to believe that it is less than a year ago that we made the decision to join Mazars in the East Midlands. So much has been

achieved in this short time which reflects our strong commitment to a region which both needs and deserves strong local business and financial advisory support, delivered by experienced professionals.” Since joining Mazars in October of last year, Chris Darlington and his colleagues have worked to recruit and build the Leicester team, which now boasts more

heavily to attract the quality team we have assembled to date and remain permanently on the look out for more talent.” This significant investment in Leicester together with the ongoing growth in Nottingham, where the well known figure of Alistair Wesson joined in October of last year, is part of a broader Mazars strategic plan to grow and develop the national business. Join us - 22 May 2014

and including other well known names in the regional market: Paul Bevan, Julian Clough, Saj Devonshire. The market response to Mazars arrival in Leicester has been incredibly positive and will underpin further expansion over the coming months and years. Chris Darlington further commented: “we recognise that good people are the key to our future success, so have invested

Mazars are looking forward to celebrating the opening of the new the evening of the 22 May 2014. Please join us as we welcome faces old and new and take the opportunity to showcase Mazars to the Leicester business community. For further information Please contact Alison Beddow: alison.beddow@mazars.co.uk

CONTACT US 6 Dominus Way, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1RP – T: +44 (0)116 281 6500 Cartwright House, Tottle Road, Nottingham NG2 1RT – T: +44 (0)115 943 5363 CHRIS DARLINGTON

DAVID HOOSE

SAJID SATTAR

chris.darlington@mazars.co.uk 07552 007927

david.hoose@mazars.co.uk 07752 007708

sajid.sattar@mazars.co.uk 07881 283560

BOB JOHNSON

PAUL BEVAN

STEVIE HEAFFORD

bob.johnson@mazars.co.uk 07554 110019

paul.bevan@mazars.co.uk 07881 283531

07881 283506

STEVE ENGLISH

JULIAN CLOUGH

GARY DEVONSHIRE

steve.english@mazars.co.uk 07554 100067

julian.clough@mazars.co.uk 07552 002563

gary.devonshire@mazars.co.uk 07881 283541

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Total Motion Vehicle Management Established in 1998, Total Motion Vehicle Management are market leaders in fleet, driver and maintenance management. The independent fleet management company are currently directly responsible for over 10,000 drivers in 14 countries on behalf of over 200 clients and their consultancy service supports clients with a combined fleet size in excess of 150,000 vehicles. The team has over 35 years’ fleet management and vehicle engineering experience with fleets of 30-18,000 vehicles. TMVM’s dedicated team of professionals specialise in every constituent part of fleet management, legal, health & safety, HR, accountancy and logistics. The TMVM’ “Actual Whole Life Cost” system, developed in 1998, has proven consistently to be the most accurate all round fleet management tool. Their Fleet Road Risk Management Software was the first of its kind on the market to properly deal with and manage grey fleet using HSE principals. TMVM deliver individual fleet management solutions that are simple, cost effective and, most importantly, work.

Philosophy Total Motion Vehicle Management’s experience of managing fleets in every business sector has taught them that effective fleet management develops from a close partnership between the fleet operator and the service provider. While cost control remains a key factor, operating and resourcing a fleet has become more complex and critical to get right. TMVM works with clients to deliver comprehensive management solutions that suit the specific requirements and priorities of the business.

They are passionate about delivering the right solution and getting results for their clients, and are totally focussed on representing your interests. These fundamentals are at the core of the service they provide. Although, they advise some of the largest global fleets and work with all shapes and sizes of organisation, irrespective of scale, all of their clients receive the same support, attention to detail and commitment to excellence. When all is said and done, regardless of whether your vehicles are a recruitment and retention tool, cash allowance or essential use for the business, a fleet is a support function, a means to an end. It is, however, one that has to be managed properly.

Why Choose TMVM? TMVM work in partnership with their clients becoming an extension of their business that they control. Their core business is fleet management and they are dedicated to providing a service that is second-to-none, delivering cost savings and resource solutions. They offer their clients complete transparency throughout, using dynamic purchasing methods and they constantly develop cost and resource synergies. TMVM are committed to supporting their clients at every level and achieving all objectives set by their clients. With an extensive approved and monitored network of suppliers, they are able to obtain the least cost routing for every product and service. In research carried out by Berg Consultants, the number of fleets looking for complete outsourced fleet management is growing at its fastest rate with over 30% already outsourcing with a further 60% exploring the benefits.

TMVM is the only option for those fleets that want a real outsourcing partnership.

For more information: Tel: 0116 251 1122 Email: info@totalmotion.co.uk

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

HEAT HOLDERS Warming up Global Retail Heat Holders, a thermal sock brand whose name was scarcely known across its founding town of Leicester five years ago, is now widely recognised across the globe. Heat Holders socks were devised in 2006, the brainchild of David and Shane Doughty â&#x20AC;&#x201C; father and son hosiery moguls in Leicester and Bolton respectively.

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At the time, the term ‘thermal’ was fast becoming associated with ‘budget’. The thermal sock market was flooded by products which were cheap to make and cheap to buy, resulting in thin socks with poor insulation which were completely redundant for their sole purpose, keeping people’s feet warm.

By 2013, Heat Holders were stocked in various well known high street retailers and had moved across the pond to take on the huge US & Canadian retail market. Moving across the world, countries including China, Australia, Russia and South Korea now stock Heat Holders.

Appalled that customers weren’t getting what they were paying for, David and Shane saw an opportunity to bring to the market what it was missing, a high-quality, affordable thermal sock that actually worked. With the aid of SockShop, the online retailer that owns Heat Holders, two years were dedicated to creating the new thermal sock. New machinery was developed to achieve the thermal sock design and an all new extra-long looped pile was produced. This pile succeeded in locking in far more warm air close to the skin – a key element to thermal insulation.

A true retail success story, Heat Holders have increased their turnover from £200,000 in 2010 to £10 million in 2014, and are now stocked in hundreds of major retailers. Not bad for a sock originating from Leicester!

Yarn mixes were tested until the final blend, a warm cashmere-like feeling material, was developed. This new yarn, long-looped pile and the all new intense brushing process – a closely guarded secret that maximises total warmth - are the three elements of Heat Holders, devised by David, Shane and Sockshop that make the socks so warm. Believe it or not Heat Holders were also awarded a 2.34 tog rating, which compared with the 0.89 rating of ordinary thermal socks, truly highlights how warm the Heat Holders socks really are. By 2008 Heat Holders were introduced into the market as ‘the ultimate thermal sock’ and by 2010 they had revolutionised the thermal sock market in the UK.

What prompted this influx in interest and understanding of the brand across the globe? A variation of elements to increase brand development and awareness, put into action by Midlands based national brand agency, Champions (UK) plc. The two locally based businesses ensured that Heat Holders were aligned with the right PR, marketing and advertising as well as celebrity ambassadors to match the ethos of the thermal sock brand. The heavily media relations led campaign was started in 2010 with all campaign activity devised and put into place to turn Heat Holders from a mere name of a sock, into a fully-fledged brand – with various product expansions. Champions (UK) plc secured celebrity ambassadors, firstly in the form of Big Brother winner & DIY expert, Craig Phillips and then with two further personalities, Ski pundit and former Olympian, Graham Bell as well as TV weather girl Emma Jesson. These ambassadors still represent the brand four years down the line, bringing their own individual career specialisms to the name of Heat Holders. Another ambassador, TV personality & garden specialist Jules Hudson has also recently joined the Heat Holders fold – bringing with him extraordinary gardening knowledge – a strong hobby held by many a Heat Holders fan.

Shane Doughty of Heat Holders says of Champions (UK) plc, “I have been working with Champions (UK) plc on our Heat Holders brand since 2010. In that time Champions (UK) plc have become an essential part of our whole team. Though their remit is PR & marketing, the Champions (UK) plc team cover so much more than this across all aspects of our business. I can honestly say their can-do attitude and willingness to go out of their way for our product is amazing. With so many levels of expertise from editorial, advertising, press coverage to website management, social media and our ambassadors, Champions (UK) plc have been fundamental in making our product number one in the marketplace today.” Champions (UK) plc created a Heat Holders specific website for the brand, wherein more information could be gathered and as the retail market expanded into foreign charters, the website expanded into translated pages and retail e-commerce sites where relevant. Champions (UK) plc then went on to provide a number of services from 2010 onwards including: •

PR services, including media relations, experiential & reactive PR

•

Design and development of marketing materials for retail sales purposes

•

Social Media set up & management

•

Outdoor advertising

•

Sky Partnership – with sponsorship of CBS Reality, CBS Drama, Bio & Universal in November – December 2013.

•

Sampling at key events including Cosmopolitan Awards 2013 & Lollibob 2013

Since working alongside Champions (UK) plc to grow their brand, Heat Holders has always had, and continues to push a strong focus on PR and media relations as well as sampling. Champions (UK) plc and Heat Holders even worked together compiling a targeted sampling strategy towards various types of organisations and persons who would be interested in trying thermal socks, i.e. dog walkers, walking groups, camping enthusiasts, fishermen, mountain rescue groups and the RNLI, to name just a few. These organisations were instrumental to Heat Holders’ brand development, bringing in testimonials and feedback as well as valuable customer responses and ideas for future products. Thanks to Champions (UK) plc’s help in promotion and marketing products to consumers, Heat Holders now not only provides various socks in different lengths and styles for men, women and children, but also went on to create new products for the retail market. These include blankets, gloves, hats, thermal underwear, thermal tights and leggings as well as the newly designed jumpers – all created with their customer in mind, ensuring they meet the market demand and their main desire, to keep people warm!

To Discover more about Heat Holders visit: www.heatholders.com To Discuss & Enhance your brand visit: www.championsukplc.com

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

BREAK WITH CONVENTION The De Vere Venues East Midlands Conference Centre and Orchard Hotel provides a range of state-of-the-art facilities just 2 miles from the city centre. Set in 330 acres of The University of Nottingham’s landscaped parklands, it is a stunning modern venue with a unique, postmodern look and as such it acts as a sophisticated, yet tranquil environment away from the distractions of the office. With over 25 years’ experience in conferencing, staff at the East Midlands Conference Centre have the know-how and flexibility to accommodate comfortably up to 850 conference delegates and they are equally at ease putting on large exhibitions or evening banquets for over 500 diners. Guests are free to make the most of free Wi-Fi and the centre’s state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment to ensure their seminars or meetings are seamless and well presented. There is a coterie of professional, friendly staff on hand to help plan and manage events that go off without a hitch; the centre certainly understands the position of trust it holds in the eyes of its business clients. Positioned alongside the East Midlands Conference Centre on the University of Nottingham’s main campus, the Orchard Hotel is one of the region’s most stylish and eco-friendly stopover options. Having opened

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in 2012, the hotel accommodates many of the delegates who take advantage of the conference centre’s facilities and offers a warm welcome to those drawn simply by its cutting edge architecture and first rate hospitality. Boasting 202 bedrooms designed to maximise the penetration of natural light, the hotel has a range of executive suites plus a number of rooms and galleries specifically designed to meet your business needs. The Orchard houses four boardroom style meeting rooms, each with scope for around 20 delegates. In order to minimise its carbon footprint, the hotel makes full use of ground-sourced heating, a low energy ventilation system and a vast array of photovoltaic solar panels to harvest energy from the sun. The complex was so well received in its inaugural year that critics were quick to give it recognition. At the respected Laterooms.com annual ‘Simply the Guest Awards’ in 2013, the Orchard scooped first prize in the ‘Best Large Hotel’ category and ran in an excellent second in the highly competitive ‘Best Business Hotel’ section.

Another special feature of the Orchard Hotel is the Bramleys Brasserie. The chefs are all about sourcing their ingredients as locally as possible, making it is a great place to enjoy contemporary British food. The Brasserie is also ideal for a lovely Christmas lunch, whether that is with colleagues, friends or family, so make an early booking and kick-start the festivities. The East Midlands Conference Centre and Orchard Hotel combine to make the perfect venue for the 21st century. Together they get the balance between work, pleasure and relaxation exactly right. The complex has a stunning visual appeal and a flexible quality that is a smart fit for business, plus the staff have the attitude and experience to satisfy your every requirement.

WE’RE SOOO

Christmas!

Festive Joiner Parties

£19.95

C e l e b r at e at E a sonly t Midl ands Conference Centre from

Private Christmas Parties from only

£19.95

Festive Lunches from only

£17.95

Christmas Day Lunch from only With a range of Christmas dinner and party options, the EMCC and Orchard Hotel are the perfect choice this festive season. There are a range of options including joiner parties and private celebrations. The events team have years of experience and are on hand to bring any ideas and suggestions to life. Celebrations include welcome drinks, superb three course meals and plenty of festive fun. To take a closer look at all the facilities and services available at the De Vere’s Venues East Midlands Conference Centre and at the Orchard Hotel visit www.deverevenues.co.uk or call 0115 876 0900.

£49.00 £29.00

per adult per child

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner East Midlands Conference Centre & Orchard Hotel University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RJ Tel: 0115 876 0900 or email: emcc@deverevenues.co.uk www.deverevenues.co.uk

£45.00 £75.00

per person (over 18’s only) per person, residential

Crinkly hats, crispy crackling

Book now to avoid Starters disappointment! Call 0115 876 Mains 0900

Book now to avoid disappointment! call 0844 346 1216

*Terms & Conditions apply. Datestrimmings and time restrictions loin with fennel, Potatoes and Beurre Blanc may apply. Dress Code applies. Cod Check online for full sauce package details. Risotto with blue cheese, rocket & pickled red onions (V) www.deverevenues.co.uk

Festive lunches

From only

£17.95 Per PERSON

Available Monday - Friday

Crackers at the ready! For the ultimate Christmas lunch, join us at Bramleys Brasserie. Bring your colleagues, friends or family, sit back, relax and we’ll do the rest. You’ll enjoy a truly delicious three course festive lunch with festive music, crackers and novelties - it’s the perfect way to kick start the party season.

White onion soup with sage croutons (V) Chicken liver parfait with homemade piccalilli, watercress & sourdough bread

Turkey stuffed with chestnut & cranberry, served with roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables and all the

Dessert Christmas pudding with Brandy sauce Chocolate tart with vanilla ice cream and mulled wine syrup

Par Th

at EMC

We’re sooo Chr colleagues, frie Whether you’re with all the trim enjoyable occa

On behalf of th Happy New Yea Best Wishes,

Followed by filter coffee and chocolate petit fours

Lasse Hogberg

Book now call 0844

This year Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People is celebrating a major milestone – 20 years of caring for the East Midlands’ poorliest children and young people. With your help, we can ensure that Rainbows will be there for even more families for many years to come. You can get involved with the charity, see the full birthday photos archive and make a donation at:

www.rainbows.co.uk/birthday

With donations from the comm unity, gifts in kind and support from BBC Radio Leicester and the Leicester Mercury, the funds needed to build Rainbows were raised in two years.

Those of us who know Rainbows will see from these

They are continuing to progress, providing more

photos just how far the Charity has progressed. The

specialist services and looking after more children

path has not always been easy and has involved a lot

than ever before. Their Family Support Team has

of hard work from many people to develop Rainbows

developed and grown alongside the charity as a whole.

into the charity it is today. Turning 20 is a very special

Through contact with East Midlands paediatric

time for them and they would like to thank every single

oncology units, they’re caring for a growing number

person who has been part of their journey and those

of our region’s children with cancer. They have also

who will be part of our future.

invested significantly in the care of children and

In 1992, Rainbows was nothing more than a muddy field and a vision. The hard work of founders, Gail and

Over 22 year field overloo s ago Gail and Harry it would be king the Charnwood Fo Moore stood in a the ideal pla ce to build arest and thought children's hosp ice.

ren get to Today, some of the childof machinery 'have-a-go' in the kindthe hospice! that helped build

young people who rely heavily on technology, such as life-sustaining ventilation.

Harry Moore, and the tremendous support of the East

But none of this would be possible without the amazing

Midlands’ community (including many Aspirational

help that Rainbows has received from their supporters

Magazine readers), saw that vision become a reality

over the last 20 years. The truth is that they can’t do

when the first bricks were laid.

their work without the help of people like you.

Over time, they knew that to continue providing the best

You can continue to help Rainbows by joining in

care and services possible, Rainbows needed to grow;

with our birthday celebrations; they have devised

in 2008 they embarked on our Building for the Future

many ways that you can raise funds this year.

Appeal to raise £4m to create a therapy wing and add six

Please do get involved, have some fun or simply make a

additional bedrooms for our children and young people.

donation and be a part of Rainbows. You really will

Today, Rainbows has excellent facilities and an incredible team that are instrumental in improving the quality of life

be helping them to make a difference! www.rainbows.co.uk/birthday

of the children and young people. They are continually developing and are a nationally and internationally renowned hospice at the forefront of palliative care.

, 1995, On 7th April opened Rainbows. les officially ar Ch e inc Pr

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Lending a helping hand!

Spelling it out with bricks

20 years on and Rainbows is providing more support than ever imagined

Over the past 20 years Rainbows has helped thousands of families like the Jones’s and they want to help thousands more. Every day, single mum Melissa Jones lives in fear that a simple thing like a high temperature could kill her children.

Between them, seven-year-old Toby and three-year-old Jessica have spent almost three years of their lives in

“Each time Toby cut a tooth and got a temperature, his breathing got so bad that he had to go to hospital and

hospital. They have had six cardiac arrests and are

spend time in intensive care. Almost every time he got a

constantly picking up infections.

chest infection it turned into pneumonia. Every infection

The brother and sister suffer from a rare illness called Congenital Myasthenia Syndrome (CMS), a condition which causes severe weakness in the muscles, made worse by physical exertion. It also can cause breathing

leads to scarring on the lungs, so each time his breathing gets progressively worse. It’s just a cycle that I can’t stop. I feel so powerless. I have been in ITC so often that I know what every beep of the heart monitor sounds like.”

problems which may be triggered by fevers or infections.

When Melissa fell pregnant again at the end of 2009,

Melissa became aware that something was wrong with

she was warned there was a one in four chance of

Toby at two weeks old when he started refusing his bottle. “I did take him to the hospital and the doctors but they

her baby having the same condition as Toby. She said: “My pregnancy was totally normal and when

In 2012, Melissa discovered Rainbows, which she describes as a lifesaver. “I love Rainbows. They love Rainbows,” said Melissa. “They get so upset when I take them home, Jessica cries all the way home. They just love doing everything there. Toby likes it because he knows everyone is different and he has made friends. “The best thing for me is that everyone is so friendly. Yes, they’re professional and diligent but, when you can’t get out of the house you miss the company of other adults. Even meeting other parents is wonderful. It makes me feel that I’m not alone in the world any more.

thought I was just a worrying mother and didn’t believe he

Jessica was born it was a waiting game to see how

Rainbows staff have gone out of their way to support

was ill,” she said. “When he was six-months-old, Toby was

she was. On her first feed I looked at her and knew that

me and my children. We love it there.”

on holiday with his grandparents when he got so worked

she it had it too.

up because he was hungry and choked on his secretions. He then had a cardiac arrest and had to go to hospital.”

Jessica has been in hospital a lot. As soon as she

On returning home, Toby was admitted to Leicester

becomes unresponsive.

Royal Infirmary where he spent the next 18 months, only returning home for occasional days and weekends.

“I have to call 999 every couple of months for Jessica. She has had bad episodes where she gets sick and goes

diagnosed Toby with CMS.

blue and she is bleeding from her mouth, then she starts

He is prone to chest infections; he has weak back and stomach muscles; droopy eyes; tunnel vision and weak

to panic. She has been on life support twice and I never know what to expect. Her chest is so bad you just don’t know if she will be strong enough to recover.”

hips. He also has breathing difficulties at night and relies

Melissa also finds it incredibly difficult to take her

on a portable ventilator.

children out. She has a double pushchair but it is so big,

Melissa said Toby constantly picks up infections, which makes him prone to cardiac arrests. She said: “He had a muscle biopsy but it took him ages to come round from the anaesthetic. Then his lung collapsed and he had a

Jessica, visit www.rainbows.co.uk/donate

gets a temperature, her heart rate drops and she

Just before his first birthday, a neurologist from the USA

Toby takes medication every three hours to keep him alive.

To help Rainbows to help children like Toby and

she is unable to get on buses and has problems in supermarkets. Melissa also has to take a suction machine, extra clothes, equipment and special food for Jessica everywhere she goes.

cardiac arrest in the theatre.

There are lots of ways to support Rainbows. To find out more, visit www.rainbows.co.uk or call 01509 638 000

Toby and Jess ica ha mixing it up at ving great fun Rainbows

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

ampler Menthol

multiCIG launches...

multiVAPE

ampler

multiVAPE is the most recent addition to the multiCIG line and is a premium mod device manufactured in partnership with Inspire, one of the world’s most advanced vaping brands. The bottom dual coil cartomizer used in the multiVAPE range is the first and only of its kind manufactured. E-Liquids and vaping devices have seen unprecedented growth in the UK market over the past year as smokers, who have switched their allegiance from tobacco to electronic cigarettes, seek out longer battery life and better quality flavours. This dramatic rise in vapers means that thousands of people in the UK are now using mod devices. A mod is a modified e-cigarette, the user simply chooses a flavour of e-liquid to suit them and pours this into their mod device. Then, just like an e-cig, the user would vape, gaining all the satisfaction of a traditional cigarette. multiCIG has joined the vaping revolution and launched sister brand, multiVAPE, arguably one of the best devices around. Based in Nottingham, the multiCIG family is owned by fuel-linked distribution group, DSL, offering truly premium alternatives to cigarettes, available in a wide range of flavours and offering disposable, trial and starter kits. multiCIG is one of the leaders of the

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premium e-cigarette marketplace, offering a product that helps smokers cut down on traditional tobacco products and switch from smoking to vaping. This viable alternative to cigarettes means that smokers are no longer inhaling the toxins, tar or the 4,000 chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. multiCIG not only prides itself on products of the highest quality but is also committed to encouraging the development of the local economy. This commitment has led to multiCIG choosing a Nottinghamshire company as its sole e-liquid manufacturer for its new mod device. The multiVAPE e-liquids can be purchased separately and are added to the device to enhance the users overall ‘vaping’ experience. The device comes with a USB charger and 7ml sample of menthol mist or tobacco leaf flavoured e-liquid. Once the device has been purchased, users can then simply buy additional multiVAPE e-liquids to suit their taste. The e-liquid currently comes in five flavours ranging from tobacco leaf to apple jack and can be purchased in two sizes as well as two nicotine strengths, 12mg or 18mg. A recent survey by anti-tobacco charity, Ash, found that more than 2 million people are now using e-cigarettes in Britain, this number has tripled from

700,000 in 2012, highlighting the popularity of the smoking alternative. The electronic cigarette marketplace is an exciting and emerging one, engaging large and influential tobacco companies, some of which have acquired e-cigarette brands to expand their offering after recognising a potential market sector that could render traditional tobacco products obsolete. multiVAPE is multiCIG’s latest contribution to this ever evolving domain, leading the way for the East Midlands and continuing to provide its growing number of consumers with a revolutionary brand. A business leader, multiCIG has been awarded the prestigious Company of the Year award by Business and Industry Today magazine. The publication aims to promote high quality products and services from reliable and trustworthy companies and decided to recognise the exceptional quality of multiCIG’s products with this great accolade. With its range of practical and health benefits over traditional tobacco products, multiCIG is fast gaining recognition and its latest nomination establishes its products as the best alternative to smoking.

Sampler Menthol

Britain’s premium brand of e-cigarettes, multiCIG, has introduced multiVAPE to join its range of high quality devices, rivalling competitors with a variety of innovative new products. Sampler

Exclusive Reader Offer: Magazine readers will receive an exclusive 30% discount on their first multiVAPE order. Simply visit www.multiCIG.com and enter code “MAG30”* at the checkout. Discover the great range of devices & UK manufactured e-liquids at www.multiCIG.com *This offer is limited to one use per customer. Voucher code is valid on all multiVAPE products and expires on October 31st 2014.

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YEARS

OF SOCIAL

MEDIA

With Facebook celebrating its ten year anniversary in February 2014, we look back at social media’s influence on business over the period as well as its prospects for the future. Now synonymous with public relations, over the past ten years social media has played a fundamental role in raising awareness and establishing marketing strategies for small businesses. The Internet Advertising Bureau UK recently found that nearly 80% of consumers would feel more inclined to purchase goods due to a brand’s presence on social media, therefore the need to utilise this outlet is becoming ever more essential. Social media can help to drive traffic to a website, convert consumers into sales or create footfall for stores thanks to the large target audience you can access in a cost and time efficient manner. With Facebook now playing host to 1.23 billion members and Twitter growing to over 240 million active monthly users, ignoring social media can hinder a firm’s ability to ascertain new custom when compared to competitors and market leaders. The capacity to appeal to prospects associated with a firm is an attribute heavily involved with business usage of social media. Professional networking site LinkedIn allows businesspeople worldwide to ‘link’, increasing chances of both employability and the strengthening of corporate relationships. Two new members join LinkedIn every second, growing the online business world by up to 180,000 people each and every day. 126

The use of Google+ allows the sharing of content and the added benefit of search engine optimisation for any firm’s website. Mixing in a number of ‘circles’ on the site allows a plethora of varying individuals and firms to correspond and exchange valuable media throughout the site’s one billion users. Twitter is perhaps one of the most accessible social media platforms for businesses. The use of hashtags creates the ability to trend a topic of discussion almost immediately whilst influential Twitter accounts have the ability to endorse products and services to audiences of millions with a simple message under 140 characters. Twitter is also currently the quickest growing social network, with its appeal spanning a large demographic far beyond a number of rival sites. Over social media’s ten year history, companies have been able to create a personality behind their businesses, allowing a more humorous and light-hearted approach to both customer care and sales. Large scale corporations now employ teams of people to monitor questions and complaints from social media, giving customers a direct form of communication and firms an outlet in which they can sort consumer queries quickly and efficiently. After mainstream social media’s inception just over ten years ago, analysts have seen an ever changing trend to user demographics of these online portals, granting firms new ways to fashion marketing strategies and attract their ideal customers. For example, between 2012 and 2013, the fastest growing demographic on Twitter was the 55-64 year age bracket, with a 79% increase over the period. Equally, the 45-54 year age bracket has grown by over 40% in the same period for both Facebook and Google+. This ever changing composition of target markets allows a profile of consumers that can be relatable to more businesses, more of the time. With the huge change in the way businesses use and gain from social media in the past ten years, many business owners are now looking to the future and what it may hold for this exciting marketing platform. No one definitively knows how the business world will look in 2024, however technological experts believe that social media will still be as prominent as it is now. With social media no longer the new kid on the block, these online platforms will be a major internal modus operandi, with firms employing innovative tactics to connect to a global audience. At present, many companies see social media as a bolt-on to their existing public relations and marketing strategies. However the inclusion of digital frictionless payment tied to social media can open up sales potential exponentially, with consumers able to buy high street goods directly from posts of interest as well as donate gifts and credit to friends and family with ease. Many experts also see platforms become ever more niche, with every demographic having a social media site or application tailored to their needs. This development will allow the targeting of consumers to be more focused, driving up conversion rates and cutting costs of market research. In just ten years, the concept of social media has gone from a site to connect Harvard elites to a worldwide social and business phenomenon. With just over a quarter of the population not being able to remember the last time they were without a mobile phone, the likes of Twitter, Facebook and Google+ are playing an ever greater role in purchasing decisions and consumer behaviour. The utilisation of these marketing and public relation mediums allow companies to stand up on an online rostrum and appeal to as many customers as any other strategy possible, an asset that is sure to continue in the future as well as it has done in the previous ten years.

Champions (UK) plc can help you harness the power of your brand, offering sophisticated PR, marketing and social media packages. For more information call 08453 31 30 31 or email info@championsukplc.com 127

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With over twenty years of performing as a professional pianist, Adrian Dixon is the ideal entertainer for events parties, weddings and corporate functions across the nation. Currently one of the resident pianists and singers at Jools Holland’s The Jamhouse in Birmingham, Adrian also regularly performs at both The Dorchester Hotel and The Savoy Hotel, providing purely live performances for guests to add an extra touch of class and elegance to the venue.

With his own high quality portable sound system and piano, including his own portable baby grand piano, Adrian can assemble and set up his equipment in a matter of minutes. Creating a highly sophisticated atmosphere to events and functions.

Playing a multitude of styles, Adrian enjoys almost every genre of music and is happy to cater to a client’s needs and play any requests or favourite songs during their special occasion. With a wealth of experience touring the country with the likes of Sugarbeat Traffic and Bad Manners, Dixon has also played alongside Jools Holland in his ‘Duelling Pianos’ act as well as both Bill Bailey and Eddie Izzard at the Edinburgh Festival.

A consummate professional, Dixon holds public liability insurance cover and all of Adrian’s equipment is PAT tested. A member of the Entertainment Union Equity for over fifteen years, Adrian works towards the improvement of representation and conditions of employment for artist covering all performance spectrums, proving testament to his passion for the entertainment industry.

Adrian has the ability to combine with other artists to create compelling duos, such as an upbeat drummer and pianist act for a lively and energetic accompaniment, or a more classical vocalist partnership with the likes of Caron Pascoe.

Drawing inspiration from greats of the music industry including Frank Sinatra, Robbie Williams, Dean Martin and Queen, Adrian is a highly accomplished entertainer with a portfolio of performances in some of the most prestigious venues in the country.

Perfect for weddings, parties and corporate functions, Adrian will ensure your event is a wonderful success and highlight the quality of a live performer compared to a simple backing track, an attribute guests are sure to notice and appreciate. To book Adrian Dixon for your event, simply contact Jack Hayes at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31

www.adriandixon.biz

Willie Thorne, Ian Mattioli, Bob Woods and Theo Paphitis

Martin Jarvis, Amit Joshi, Chetan Mistry and Adrian Mee

Gia Rhone, Ben Wattam and Sarah Thi

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Annual Charity Dinner Thursday 7th November 2013

Willie Thorne and Theo Paphitis

Leading pensions and wealth management firm, Mattioli Woods plc, hosted their annual charity dinner at the Roundhouse in Derby, welcoming a variety of special guests and local businesses to raise funds for Rainbows Children’s Hospice.

Champions (UK) plc, DMU and Mattioli Woods

Mattioli Woods were delighted to welcome retail magnate and star of TV’s Dragon’s Den Theo Paphitis as their guest speaker at one of the East Midlands’ most prestigious events. Paphitis provided fascinating insights into his long career in business, entertaining guests with some fantastic anecdotes.

John Kelly and Ian Guyler

The black-tie event began with a champagne reception followed by a superb three course dinner. The evening was hosted by snooker great Willie Thorne and featured a charity auction, with all proceeds going to Rainbows Hospice.

Bob Woods with Theo Paphitis and guests

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

Ian and Claire Mattioli Jane Kedar and Bob Woods

Gemma Olweny

Roundhouse in Derby

Amy Chambers and Sarah Pearson

Peter Shilton OBE with Graham Rowntree

Awards in progress at 1880 suite

in association with FRS with Paul Nixon

Cartwright King with Steve Walsh and Peter Shilton OBE

Thursday 16th January 2014 One of the biggest events in the Midlands, the Leicester Mercury Sports Awards, took place on Thursday 16th January at Welford Road: the home of one of the city’s favourite teams, Leicester Tigers. Welcoming a host of the region’s sporting stars and top businesses, the event celebrated a fantastic year of sport.

Champions (UK) plc and DMU with Will Jefferson, Matthew Boyce and Shiv Thakor

Organised by Champions (UK) plc, the evening was hosted by snooker legend Willie Thorne and ITV’s weather presenter Emma Jesson. Guests had the opportunity to meet stars including England goalkeeping legend Peter Shilton OBE, former World Cup winning rugby star Neil Back MBE, original Big Brother winner Craig Phillips and Olympic medallist Jo Jackson. England rugby legend Graham Rowntree won the coveted Lifetime Achievement award.

Leicester Riders with Chris Darlington and Graham Rowntree

A host of current local sporting stars, including players from the Leicester Tigers and Leicestershire County Cricket Club, were also in attendance. Beginning with a champagne reception, guests had the chance to enjoy an evening of fantastic entertainment and a lavish three-course meal. PKF Cooper Parry with Neil Back MBE Leicester City Football Club, Willie and Jill Thorne and Alan Birchenall MBE

Matthew Boyce with Dan Greaves and Tom Youngs

Willie Thorne with Dominic Gomersall, Lauren Ecob and Henrik Jesperson

David Simms with Miss Leicestershire

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR TOM YOUNGS

SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR GEMMA STEEL Pantone 871 Metallic

Pantone C465

MANAGER/COACH OF THE YEAR ROB PATERNOSTRO

Neil Back MBE with Ahmad Saleh and Simon Baines

TEAM OF THE YEAR LEICESTER RIDERS

CLUB OF THE YEAR PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

LOUGHBOROUGH LAWN TENNIS CLUB

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

UNDER 19/SCHOOL TEAM

Ebony-Jewel Rainford-Brent with Megan Morrisson, Grace Garner, Lauren Davies and Matthew Wheatcroft

LANCASTER SCHOOL BASKETBALL

YOUNG SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR BEN DIJKSTRA

YOUNG SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR GRACE GARNER Gary Wolstenholme MBE with Craig Phillips, Clive Morrison on behalf of Cherie D Silva and Jason Yeomans

JUNIOR SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR AHMAD SALEH

JUNIOR SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR LIZZIE WARNER

COMMUNITY AWARD CHERIE D SILVA Mattioli Woods with John Kelly, Tom Croft and Tom Youngs

NEVILLE HAMILTON AWARD JOHN BALL

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT GRAHAM ROWNTREE

THE ACTIVE4LIFE AWARD ELIZABETH ANNE IZZARD Frank Worthington with John Ball, Linda Hamilton and Sophia Hayes

Dominic Gomersall of Lumbers

Tim Maxted and Berkeley Insurance

Dan Gallacher and Toni Sculley

Dining Experience 12th, 13th and 14th November 2013 Chris Pacey and Anthony Kinsey

Fine food by Finesse Hospitality

Established in 1881, Lumbers has been Leicester’s finest jewellers for over 130 years. Over three nights in November, the showroom welcomed more than 250 guests to enjoy evenings of fine dining, wine and entertainment. Guests were welcomed with champagne and canapés on arrival, before sampling some of The Finesse Collection’s finest culinary creations, with three courses, coffee and petit fours, before the musical entertainment began. Throughout the evenings, guests were welcome to browse a range of Lumbers’ most beautiful jewellery and watches. Exquisite collections from brands such as Bulgari, Chopard and Breitling were available for diners to view, alongside a wide variety of other items.

David and Mia Simms with magician Spencer Wood

James Blick and Janine Edwards

The third evening brought together the East Midlands’ most prestigious group of businesses, the Aspirational Club, for delicious food courtesy of Finesse Hospitality and fantastic entertainment from singers, Anthony Kinsey and Hannah Boleyn and magician, Spencer Wood. The club’s members include St James’s Place Wealth Management, Berkeley Insurance Group, Bentley Leicester, Champions (UK) plc, Bentons, Finesse Hospitality and Lumbers.

Alan and Linda Upton James Warne

HOSPITALITY

Hannah Boleyn

Dominic Gomersall and Hannah Boleyn

Benscliffe Hay

Maureen and Maurice Addison, Sophia and John Hayes, and Simon and Kathryn Baines

Benscliffe Hay Swimming Pool

Key Businesses Gather at Benscliffe Hay for an Evening of Fine Dining Maureen Addison, Paul Quickfall, Nitisha Joshi

Wednesday 2nd April 2014 Gathering together on 2nd April at the impressive Benscliffe Hay, currently on the market with Bentons estate agents for £3.5 million, Aspirational Club members enjoyed an evening of exceptional food and wine tasting courtesy of Bentons and Finesse Hospitality. Providing an insight into the very best culinary excellence that the region has to offer, guests experienced an in depth demonstration of a series of dishes accompanied by a selection of exclusive wines.

Food by Finesse Hospitality

Sue Thompson, Janine Edwards, Tim Maxstead, Angie Jackson and Lisa Glover

The Benscliffe Hay, a brand new and lavish home overlooking Bradgate Park, provided the perfect venue for highlighting the exquisite food and wine on offer. The event also gave guests the opportunity to tour the house, taking in its many features including a home cinema and indoor swimming pool. Chef Richard Donohue treated the East Midlands’ most prestigious group of businesses to gastronomic delights. An ambitious chef with 12 years of experience, Richard hopes to achieve Michelin star status across the Finesse Collection. The evening allowed Donohue to showcase his talents to an appreciative audience, before sharing his recipes and techniques with them as well as providing a selection of dishes to sample.

Lamborghini Huracán

The Aspirational Club holds a series of diverse and exciting annual events, allowing each of the members to enjoy great hospitality and entertainment. Its members are Bentley Leicester, Bentons, Berkeley Insurance, Champions (UK) plc, Finesse Hospitality, Lumbers and St James’s Place. Dominic Gomersall, Mary and Brian Pollard Benscliffe Hay Cinema Room

HOSPITALITY

James and Caroline Warne

Janine Edwards, James and Emma Blick

Matthew and Sarah Hoggard

Guests enjoying the evening

Masquerade Charity Ball Friday 31st January 2014 Champions (UK) plc celebrated over a decade of business at a very special charity event, The Masquerade Ball. The glittering occasion highlighted the past year’s successes and offered an excellent opportunity to raise money for hospice for children and young people, Rainbows. Guests included key business individuals, celebrities and friends of the Costock based company, all gathering for the glamorous black tie event. Guests enjoying the evening

Aidan and Sarah Reed

The event, hosted by snooker legend Willie Thorne, took place at Leicester’s King Power Stadium where guests were welcomed down a red carpet and greeted with a glittering champagne reception. The event welcomed a host of stars including most-capped England footballer Peter Shilton OBE, former footballer and manager Ron Atkinson, DIY experts Tommy Walsh and Craig Phillips, Ashes-winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and Grand National winner Bob Champion MBE. Many took part in both a silent auction and exciting live auction, hosted by television auctioneer and antiques expert Charlie Ross, generating even more donations to Rainbows through the sale of sporting and historic memorabilia, holidays and a range of luxury lifestyle items.

Amy Chambers

There was also a chance for one lucky person to win a diamond worth £1,000 from Lumbers jewellers by purchasing a special glass of champagne, with all money raised going to Rainbows. The event was a sparkling celebration of the Champions (UK) plc’s achievements, as well as a fantastic opportunity to provide vital funds to charity, allowing them to continue their work for years to come. Tim Charlesworth and Anne Davies Jo Jackson and Grant Turner

George and Clare Herd

Eric Herd and Gillian Wesley

Willie and Jill Thorne

James and Emma Blick

Verity Monaghan and Femi Latif

Peter Shilton OBE and Steph Kettle

Ron and Maggie Atkinson

Bob Champion MBE and Helen Lamb

Tommy Walsh, Andy Abraham, Craig Phillips and Willie Thorne

Stephanie Farwell and Lindsay Doughty

Eliza Walters, Dominic Gomersall and Brooke Hurdley

Ballroom dancers Lloyd and Rebecca

Lloyd Bailey

Gemma Olweny and Willie Thorne

Auctioneer Charlie Ross

Louisa Hayes, Lauren Ecob, Amelia Benskin and Charlotte Best

Porsche Leicester Macan Launch Tuesday 8th April 2014 The Porsche Macan, the most dynamic compact sports utility vehicle in the segment went on sale in the UK on Saturday 12th April 2014 and was unveiled at Porsche Centre Leicester. An exclusive evening for Porsche enthusiasts, customers were able to hear about and view the Macan in a relaxed yet informative setting. Porsche used this event as an opportunity not only to enlighten customers about the Macan but also talked about other model and technology developments including the innovative 911 Targa, Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS models, which were announced in March, as well as the return to Le Mans this year in the 919 Hybrid. Peter Mahon of Porsche Cars Great Britain who was at Porsche Centre Leicester for the launch event commented: “There’s so much going on at Porsche at the moment that we wanted to take this event as an opportunity to give everyone a preview of the year ahead. Looking at new models of course, but also new technology and new programmes that help explain where Porsche’s cars get their spirit, as well as how the range fits together. The Macan is a car that we are incredibly proud of, what began as a dream of our engineers is now a reality. Having driven the car last month I can assure you that the performance and handling are even better than you would expect, it really feels like a sports car.”

Leigh and Mike Holt

Melissa Battem, Sophia Hayes, Charlotte Best and Megan Smith

Ken Crowett and Jack Hayes

An Evening with Dennis Taylor Thursday 27th February 2014 Jo Worley, Nick and Lacey Hood

Champions (UK) plc hosted a fabulous thank you dinner dedicated to the supporters of the Midlandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; leading brand agency. Taking place at the Opulence Restaurant at the Cathedral Quarter Hotel in Derby, the evening welcomed local businesses and celebrities.

Reverend Alan Haydock

Everyone was greeted with a champagne reception, before enjoying a fantastic three-course meal with each course introduced by the Head Chef. The evening was hosted by celebrated after dinner speaker Reverend Alan Haydock, with entertainment provided by former X Factor star Faye Horne.

Margaret and Vic Brownett

Guests were then entertained by former snooker World Champion Dennis Taylor who recounted hilarious stories from his career. The evening was hosted to thank the clients of Champions (UK) plc for their support over the past year, and celebrated the ongoing success of the brand agency and the companies closest to it.

William Roache MBE, Peter Collier and Guy Collier

Faye Horne

Hannah Cunningham and Keeley Walsh

Dennis Taylor

Matthew Hayes, Ben Moffat and Lloyd Bailey

Matthew Hannah and James Blick

Paul Ross and Anne Davies

David Simms

Adrian Dixon entertaining guests

Kate Golding from Rainbows and guests

Matthew Hayes and Benny Lawrence with Champions (UK) plc guests

In association with

Thursday 3rd April 2014

Kevin Connelly

The Leicester Mercury Business Awards took place on the 3rd April at the Maher Centre in front of an audience of around 650 representatives from the region’s leading businesses. Sponsors and award category finalists were all present at the event, celebrating the hugely encouraging steps that continue to be made all over Leicestershire, cementing the region as one of the country’s most dynamic economies.

De Montfort University and Anne Davies

Guests at the awards were entertained throughout the evening by the truly brilliant presenting skills of Anne Davies, award winning broadcaster and face of BBC East Midlands Today. She was accompanied by journalist and entertainment expert Paul Ross, who swapped his normal post as co-anchor of London’s 94.9 Breakfast Show for the Maher Centre stage.

Freeth Cartwright LLP

Entertainment also came in the form of impressionist, comedian and after dinner speaker, Kevin Connelly. Amusing the audience with his incredible impressions, his quick witted humour and political gags ensured that everyone was captivated and smiling all night. Pianist, Adrian Dixon, who regularly plays at the Dorchester Hotel, was also on hand to provide a melodic backdrop throughout the entire night.

Baker Tilly

Organised by leading brand agency, Champions (UK) plc, the quality of the awards ceremony matched its prestigious reputation. David Simms, Publisher of the Leicester Mercury, thanked the East Midlands-based company for their execution of such a prestigious ceremony.

Jade O’Gara

The evening was also a fantastic opportunity to raise vital funds for Rainbows Hospice through a silent auction. The charity offers children and young people with life threatening and life limiting illnesses specialist hospice facilities at their base in Loughborough and money raised ensures that they can continue their important work.

Santander

NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION AWARD SOFT TOUCH ARTS LTD

CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY AWARD

UK Trade and Investment with Eco Track & Access

NYLACAST

INTERNATIONAL TRADE AWARD ECO TRACK & ACCESS

CREATIVE INDUSTRIES BUSINESS OF THE YEAR JUICE CREATIVE PKF Cooper Parry and Bistro Live

SERVICES AWARD BISTRO LIVE

EXCELLENCE IN MANUFACTURING AWARD LESTERCAST LTD

RETAIL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR VELOBICI

Dominic Gomersall and Sophia Hayes with Aspirational and Lumbers guests

EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AWARD ALAN NUTTALL LTD

SALES & MARKETING AWARD 34 WINDSOR STREET

NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Daly Systems ltd and 34 Windsor Street

URBAN APOTHECARY LIMITED

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD ARCH CREATIVE

COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD MY HOME MOVE Mattioli Woods plc and Urban Apothecary

New Lamborghini Showroom Thursday 27th March 2014 Sytner Group has partnered for a third time with supercar manufacturer, Lamborghini, officially opening its new state of the art Leicester showroom at a cocktail event held on 27th March. A seven figure sum was invested in the dealership in preparation for the arrival of Lamborgini’s latest tour de force, the Huracán 610-4, which had taken its first bow on the world stage at the Geneva Motor Show earlier that month. Over 300 guests attended the ceremony and they were introduced to the Huracán 610-4 by Lamborghini Head of Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Christian Mastro who said “We are delighted to further expand our dealer network in the UK, where there is significant appeal and demand for the pure, absolute design and performance of the Lamborghini marque.” The Huracán replaces Lamborghini’s best-selling model ever, the legendary Gallardo, and has enjoyed unprecedented preorder success. Richard Wynn Jones, Divisional Managing Director for the Sytner Group addressed the gathering, saying “Both the V12 Lamborghini Aventador and the new V10 Lamborghini Huracán are extremely desirable, class-leading products. We look forward to an exciting future for Lamborghini in Leicester.”

Gino’s Pear Tree Thursday 10th April 2014 Representing the very best in Italian cuisine and hospitality, Gino’s Pear Tree is renowned for replicating the culinary delights normally found in the historic piazzas of Italy. With the installation of a brand new pizzeria, ovens will be fired up from 12noon to 10pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 4pm to 10pm after Gino’s traditional Sunday lunch service. The new hours will allow diners to enjoy the delicacies Gino’s Pear Tree has to offer on more occasions either inside the restaurant or at home in takeaway form. Gino’s quality of pizza is seen as of paramount importance and therefore the quality of ingredients used are second to none. Selecting only the finest cured prosciutto and salamis; all pizzas are dressed on top of a secret Calabrian tomato sauce. Harking back to the Albiniano family’s home of Campobasso, the stone pizza oven was imported directly from the town to ensure the most authentic tastes and flavours. Visit Gino’s Pear Tree and sample expert Pizza chef Davide’s delicious concoctions learnt from a rich culinary background and transport yourself to a dining experience most commonly associated with the rolling foothills of Naples.

De Vere Venues

Vision Express

Steve Hollingsworth, Nottingham Post

Headline Sponsors

Stephen Jackson, Nottingham Trent University

JLT PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

In association with PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Thursday 1st May 2014 The Nottingham Post Business Awards took place on the 1st May at the East Midlands Conference Centre in front of an audience of representatives from the region’s leading businesses. Sponsors and award category finalists were all present at the event, celebrating the hugely encouraging steps that continue to be made all over Nottinghamshire. PKF Cooper Parry

Guests at the awards were entertained throughout the evening by the truly brilliant presenting skills of David Bryon, former Managing Director of low-cost airline Bmibaby and ‘Financial Journalist of the Year’, Nadine Dereza, whose television and radio presenting experience includes working for CNN, Sky TV and BBC.

Kevin Connelly

Entertainment also came in the form of impressionist, comedian and after dinner speaker, Kevin Connelly. Pianist, Adrian Dixon, who regularly plays at the Dorchester Hotel, was also on hand to provide a melodic backdrop throughout the entire night.

blusource

As a tribute to a pillar of the local business community who passed away earlier this year, a new award has been launched for 2014. The Jim Taylor Memorial Award was awarded to Jens Mullak, Managing Director of INIT, who was judged to have selflessly invested a significant amount of his time and energy into the promotion of Nottingham.

Freeth Cartwright

Organised by leading brand agency, Champions (UK) plc, the quality of the awards ceremony matched its prestigious reputation and Publisher of the Nottingham Post, Steve Hollingsworth, thanked the East Midlands-based company for their execution of such a prestigious ceremony.

Ann Priest of Nottingham Trent University with Upper Cut Productions Ltd

Jonathan Salt of Baker Tilly with TDX Group

NOT-FOR-PROFIT EMMANUEL HOUSE CHARITY

CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY

Karen Hickling of Barclays with TEW Group

TDX GROUP

INTERNATIONAL TRADEY BENOY

CREATIVE INDUSTRIES UPPER CUT PRODUCTIONS LTD

RETAIL OF THE YEAR

Alan Hardy, Paragon Interiors plc with Stan Allen, Mattioli Woods plc

BEAD SHOP

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY CHINOOK SCIENCES LTD

MANUFACTURING TEW GROUP

SALES & MARKETING

Dawn Whitemore, NCN with Trimcraft Ltd

BSP CONSULTING

SERVICES BISTROLIVE NOTTINGHAM

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

ALAN HARDY OF PARAGON INTERIORS GROUP PLC

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

NEW BUSINESS

Winners of Company of the Year - Hillarys Blinds

HAIRVEN SALON

SMALL BUSINESS TRIMCRAFT

COMPANY OF THE YEAR HILLARYS

Gillian Hibbert, Brewin Dolphin with Emmanuel House Charity

David Smith

Sharnshad Walke, Andrew Argyle and Paul Maloney

Jo Fairley

Catherine Mitchell, Tania Lee, Aatin Anandat, and Git Singla

Chris Darlington, Stevie Heafford and Gary Devonshire

Tuesday 29th April 2014

Sarah Pearson and Andrew McGuiness

Nottinghamshire’s business community joined together at the first Nottingham Post Business Summit. Hosted at the state-of-the-art Nottingham Conference Centre, the summit provided a unique opportunity for guests to hear from four of the country’s leading business speakers and network with key members of the county’s business community.

Michael Wisher, Mark Hands, Steve Hollingsworth and Alister Wesson

Aimed at everyone from CEOs to budding entrepreneurs, the business summit inspired the county to continue to achieve greater levels of success. Encouraging interaction between businesses, the event was an excellent way to develop skills and forge new connections. The four speakers were leading economist David Smith, motivational speaker Craig Goldblatt, co-founder of Green & Black’s Chocolate Josephine Fairley and marketing guru Geoff Ramm.

Geoff Ramm

The day concluded with a drinks reception where entertainment was provided by the Dorchester pianist, Adrian Dixon. Many guests continued to the after party at one of the county’s premier entertainment venues, Alea Nottingham.

Amarjit Kaila

Organised by Champions (UK) plc in conjunction with the Nottingham Post, the event formed part of a key business week in Nottinghamshire.

Andrew Springhall

Craig Goldblatt

Breguet, the innovator.

Invention of the Breguet balance spring, 1795 The balance spring gives time rhythm and sets its rate – the key to a watch’s precision. With its many patented innovations, the Tradition 7047PT with fusee tourbillon pushes the limits of precision time-keeping by combining the accuracy of the Breguet balance-spring’s terminal curve, conceived in 1795, and the anti-magnetic properties of silicon. History is still being written ...