Aspirational Autumn/Winter 2015 Edition 12 by Champions (UK) plc

magazine

MENDES in this edition...

EDITION 12

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EVA MENDES AND HER RISE TO SUCCESS THE MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS AGENCY: CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC’S LATEST OFFERING BLUE: WHAT IS NEXT FOR THE SUPERSTAR BOY BAND?

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

ASPIRATIONAL

E VA

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

The Apollo 8 astronauts were the first people to see the dark side of the moon with their own eyes. The black ceramic Co-Axial Speedmaster salutes the pioneering spirit that took them to a place no human had ever been and it pays homage to the Speedmaster Professional chronographs worn by every Apollo astronaut. OMEGA is a proud partner in mankind’s greatest dreams.

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In the lead role: John Travolta, movie legend and aviation aficionado. Guest star: the legendary North American X-15 that smashed all speed and altitude records and opened the gateway to space. Production: Breitling, the privileged partner of aviation thanks to its reliable, accurate and innovative instruments â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as the famous Chronomat, the ultimate chronograph. Welcome to a world of legends, feats and performance.

WELCOME TO MY WORLD

CHRONOMAT 44

Dominic Gomersall writes: I cannot believe that Christmas is upon us again. Where has 2015 gone but wow - what a year this has been for Lumbers! From the moment that we decided to relocate from Market Street to the opening of our fabulous new home on the High Street, we have experienced a rollercoaster of a year! The new shop is everything I dared dream it to be. I believe we have created a luxury department store, an emporium that caters for each and every whim! The design and final finish has been acclaimed by all and sundry. I feel sure that we have built an exciting foundation for the future of the Lumbers business and for my son, Freddie, should one day he wish to carry the responsibility. I’m especially thrilled by the reaction from our suppliers. Many are internationally famous brand names, sold in the most exclusive addresses and jewellers throughout the world – and they are all, without exception, claiming that the new Lumbers stands proud against any worldwide outlet. This is praise indeed and a huge tonic for the business. I am sure it will help us to continue to expand our portfolio of brands and bring even more new and inspiring products to the Leicester High Street. The new giftware department is simply incredible. I love the mix of products that we have purchased and sourced. From the handbags of Aspinal of London and Chopard, pens of Mont Blanc, glassware of Lalique to the beautiful Georg Jensen homewares, I set you one challenge – you surely can’t leave without making a purchase or having a new desire! In the month of the new James Bond release, Spectre, I am especially pleased to have opened our Omega watch account. Alongside the other Swiss watch brands that we already are privileged to retail, we have added one of the most important brands in the world. We really do now have a watch for everyone. The watch department really does compare to being on Bond Street or Rodeo Drive! It certainly feels a luxury environment that should give confidence to each individual watch purchase. The jewellery department is breathtaking. The cabinetry and chandeliers give the ambience on entering the store that really creates the mood for the shop. Each cabinet full of the prestigious, quality diamond and gold jewellery that we have become synonymous with over the generations. Again new partners have been found that give us a more modern offering but complement our existing jewellery. I am very grateful to my team.– they have been supportive to me and the business through an incredibly stressful year. They have worked tirelessly to deliver our dream, with a boss that has been grumpier than normal and away from the business more than ever, trying to defuse and sort any issues we may have encountered. I must also mention the many trades who have helped create our store. All Leicestershire businesses – something I am proud of. So, I’m especially looking forward to December this year. Welcoming each of you to our new home and showing you around our fabulous store. Hopefully, having a drink with many of you in our fabulous new Champagne bar, designed and created by Plug Interiors of Leicester. I’m looking forward to selling the new products we have, thinking of how many Leicester households Lumbers can contribute to on Christmas day. I’m also looking forward to a few days with my family – who have supported me through this hard year. Thank you Kim, Freddie, Maddie and Greg! May I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year…..just don’t forget the new Lumbers store has a gift for everyone!

Héritage “Grande Complication” wristwatch in 18-carat rose gold, with tourbillon. Compensating balance spring with Breguet overcoil. Silvered gold dial, hand-engraved on a rose engine. Dimensions : 42 x 35 mm. Breguet – Heritage Grande Complication Tourbillon Available from: Lumbers | lumbers.co.uk • 0116 255 1233

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Editor in Chief Matthew Hayes Sales Director Sophia Hayes Features Editor Alexandra Buist Advertising Executives Amy Derrick Jessica Dunn

ASPIRATIONAL

magazine

editor’s note

I take great pride in welcoming you to the 12th edition of Aspirational Magazine.

Features Writers Christopher Brookes William Smith Rebecca Hales Richard Padmore Rory Baxter Rosie Banbury Giuseppe Labellarte Elyssa Fagan Amy Coleman Rachel Easter Francesca Bonfiglio Emily Wood

As ever, the magazine is filled with a plethora of wonderful editorial features, as well as a selection of the most pre-eminent businesses the East Midlands has to offer. Our cover feature for this edition is the remarkable Eva Mendes, an actress whose story of her rise to fame has the potential to be a film in itself. Mendes’ exemplary multi-faceted career encompasses everything associated with an aspirational ethos, making her tale of success the perfect page-turner for our magazine.

Senior Designer Ewen Lewis Designers Kristian Goodeve Jamie Traynor Terri Burton Liam Creek Annie Taylor Photography Kristian Goodeve Antonia Doyle Ewen Lewis Leicester Mercury Nottingham Post Web Development David Evans Michael Pattinson

Contributors

Dominic Gomersall Michelle Dilley James Warne Bob Woods Ian Mattioli John Scanlon

Glynis Wright Caroline Jackson Janine Edwards Kirsty Brown Chris Darlington Captain Tony Spacey

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

This edition of Aspirational Magazine continues the trend of celebrating the brightest and most innovative businesses of the region. The Leicester business community has watched Lumbers Jewellers’ recent move to 62-66 High Street with great interest this year. I’d like to personally congratulate Dominic Gomersall and Lumbers for the new premises they have created, the store is a flagship destination to source any accompaniment or accessory to suit a luxury lifestyle. The new Lumbers store is another example of the fabulous work both SLM Builders and lighting specialists Ventola Projects are capable of, with the fit and finish of the premises being second to none. I for one can vouch for SLM Builders and Ventola Projects having witnessed first hand their tireless work in doubling the capacity of Champions (UK) plc’s offices. The new 6000+ sq ft. office’s were officially opened by Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC on the 25th September 2015, six years to the day that he opened the first section of the same building. The day was marked with a celebratory event welcoming a vast array of individuals including clientele, celebrities and Champions’ staff. Edition 12 also marks the continuation of Champions’ journey to become the foremost establishment in the UK music, entertainment and after dinner speaking markets. Alongside 2013 X Factor winner Sam Bailey, Champions are overjoyed to have signed boy band Blue in June 2015. With another household name being associated with the firm’s vast repertoire, Champions’ position as a major force in the industry is represented by a market leading website, musicandbands.co.uk. An outlet that allows users to access in excess of 1500 acts and entertainers, there is a potential booking to suit almost any event. For many years now, Champions’ after dinner speaking department has enjoyed year-on-year growth and an expanding reach to prominent personalities on the speaking circuit. Spotting a gap in the market for an online outlet specifically tailored for motivational speakers, Champions’ new website, motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk, gives the most diverse choice of motivational speakers available today. Another example of Champions offering clients an ever more proficient service, the firm have high hopes for the website in generating greater business in the future. Please enjoy the 2015 Autumn/Winter offering of Aspirational Magazine to its full. I wish you all a terrific festive season and a very happy New Year.

Matthew Hayes Editor in Chief

Champions (UK) plc Barrington House, Leake Road, Costock, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 6XA Tel: 08453 31 30 31 Fax: 08453 31 30 32 www.championsukplc.com Front cover photo by Simon Fowler/Decca Records 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 of the publisher or indeed Aspirational Magazine or any featured parties.

Georg Jensen Koppel Grande Date Annual Calendar 41mm Automatic Movement in 18ct yellow gold Available from: Lumbers | lumbers.co.uk • 0116 255 1233

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82 BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Eva Mendes……………………….14

Men’s Gift Guide.............................. 44

SLM Builders................................... 71

Lumbers........................................... 18

Lumbers Watches.............................. 46

Bentons........................................... 74

Gift Guide……………………….... 20

Breguet............................................ 48

Cookers of Distinction...................... 80

Blue................................................ 28

Brian Close CBE............................. 55

Ventola Projects................................ 82

The rise and rise of a Hollywood superstar

A new jewellery emporium on Leicester’s High Street

This season’s must-have fashion and jewellery

All rise for one of the UK’s greatest boy bands

St. James Hotel................................ 40 A home away from home in Nottingham

A range of the finest gift ideas

Leicester’s finest jewellers handpick a selection of timepieces

Over two centuries of luxury and still going strong

A look back at the life of the great cricketer and gentleman

Building a reputation of excellence

The region’s most desirable properties

Serious about cooking

Making light work of your projects

The Bespoke Tailor........................... 66 Suits you down to a tee

Game Angling Consultancy.............. 68 An exclusive Icelandic angling adventure

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120

126

124

108 96

106

95 FINE DINING GUIDE

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

SOCIAL AND NETWORKING

Ginos……………………............... 91

Future40 Club................................ 100

Natural Smiles Opening Soirée

Hambleton Hall • Lighthouse • Hotel Maiyango............................... 92 2

Exclusive networking for the region’s brightest business talent

Glynis Wright................................. 104 Specialist family law and mediation solicitors

Mattioli Woods Charity Bike Ride Abel – 50th Anniversary Celebrations 24/07/2015 16:06

Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball

Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse • Iberico • World Service..................... 93

Mattioli Woods............................... 106 Experts in wealth management and employee benefit services

An Evening with Michael Holding

Riverbank • OAKS • Walton Hotel... 94

Champions Motivational Speakers.. 112

Derby Telegraph Business Awards

Harts • Bar N°/6 • Chino Latino.... 95

A brand new website – find the perfect speaker for your next event

Hotel Maiyango............................... 96

Smith Partnership.......................... 118

Bar Estilla....................................... 98

Adey Steel...................................... 120

A Legal 500 leading firm

Celebrating 90 years of making steel work

Leicester Mercury Business Summit St James’s Place Client Lunch Champions (UK) plc New Office Opening Aspirational Club

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hAppY sport

2015/1111 - Aspirational Magazine / Lumbers - 205AVR - 230 x 285 mm - UK - 19/10/15

TAG HEUER CARRERA CARA DELEVINGNE SPECIAL EDITION LEICESTER’S FINEST JEWELLERS SINCE 1881

62-66 High Street, Leicester LE1 5YP T: 0116 255 1233

www.lumbers.co.uk

Cara Delevingne challenges rules. Being freeminded is her motto. Like TAG Heuer, she defies conventions and never cracks under pressure.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

ASPIRATIONAL Air Travel Associate

A notable history In operation for over 50 years, no other company can match the experience Air Partner has in the aircraft charter industry. In that time they have flown every mission imaginable, for every type of business and to every part of the planet.

After starting life as an advanced flying school for ex-servicemen, Air Partner was born shortly after hiring a number of aircraft for training. In the downtime, it placed the planes on charter. Soon the chartering grew to be bigger than the training and the business took off. Contrary to belief, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thinking small that has made Air Partner a global leader. Small teams of experts take the time to get to know and understand your needs to the smallest detail, delivering a carefully considered, 24/7 service.

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Your peace of mind is at the centre of everything they do. Their first and last priority is to deliver you safely to where you need to be, on time, within budget, relaxed and ready for business or, indeed, pleasure.

Precision With 20 offices worldwide they offer truly global coverage. Air Partner has access to the largest fleet of private jets, VIP airliners and helicopters and, with the contacts they have built up over the decades, you are not restricted to commercial airports.

CharterPLUS GUA R A NTEE

Air Partner will cut down on your transfer time by flying you and your friends or business associates into the nearest airfield to your ultimate destination. They will save you all the hassle of conventional air travel and all the headaches of delayed flights and cancellations, lost luggage and crowded terminals will simply disappear. Air Partner take contractual responsibility for all their flights, so you can be fully confident your journey will be completed successfully. Their CharterPLUS guarantee ensures, at no additional cost, that you get exactly where you need to be. Whatever unexpected issues arise with aircraft or airlines, there will be guaranteed back-up aircraft at the ready.

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Flights On-Demand Air Partner offers the option to pay-as-you-fly with their On-Demand Charter, a service that lets you ﬂy on your own terms, on the private jet of your choice, to your own schedule and from the airport most convenient to you. There are no long term contracts, acquisition costs or monthly management fees. In fact, there is no commitment beyond the ﬂight.

Or you could opt for the Corporate Card. Designed to deliver the JetCard service with enhanced value for day-return users. It will save you time, money and makes sound business sense through ﬁxed pricing and guaranteed availability when pre-purchasing ﬂight time for day-return travel from your base airport.

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• 25 hours of pre-purchased jet time • Choose from six aircraft categories • Aircraft guaranteed at 24hours’ notice • Dedicated account manager • No fuel surcharges • No monthly management fees • Full refund on unused hours

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As they understand the demands of work and the pleasures of a holiday, you will enjoy a relaxing, worry-free journey from the moment they pick you up to the second they drop you off. A private jet service that safely takes care of you and your passengers. A travel team taking you wherever you want to go in speed, style and luxury. Air Partner has the experience that delivers value, assurance and performance.

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30/10/2015 09:32

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Working her way up from B movies to become one of the most marketable actresses on the planet, Eva Mendes has enjoyed a meteoric rise up the Hollywood ladder. Aspirational Magazine explore in depth the life and career of the highly talented star. 14

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Born in Miami to Cuban parents, Eva Mendes was raised by her mother in Los Angeles after her parents’ divorce. The youngest of four children, Mendes’ had big ambitions, though at first they remained unfocused.

“I was poor. I came from a lower-middle-class family, so I would imagine all kinds of things,” she told the Sydney Morning Herald. “I thought I was going to be an astronaut and an opera singer when I was really little. Then I thought about being a movie star when I saw Annie.” Mendes attended Hoover High School in Glendale and later California State University, Northridge, to study Marketing but left college to pursue acting full-time. Her first break in the acting world came after a talent manager spotted her photo in a friend’s portfolio, and she landed roles in music videos including Will Smith’s Miami and Aerosmith’s Hole in My Soul. Her first movie role came in the direct-to-video Children of the Corn V: Fields of Terror (1998) and the same year, she appeared in an episode of the popular American TV series ER. Unhappy with her first forays into acting, Mendes hired an acting coach to improve her abilities and starred in a string of films in quick succession including A Night at the Roxbury (1998), Mortal Kombat: Conquest (1998), My Brother the Pig (1999), The Disciples (2000), Urban Legends: Final Cut (2000) and Exit Wound (2001). Mendes’ big break came in 2001 when she starred opposite Denzel Washington in his Oscar-winning role in the gritty crime thriller, Training Day. This was her first serious role and marked a big step up towards Hollywood’s A-list. Two years later, she worked with Washington again in the thriller Out of Time.

Bigger roles soon began flying her way and she starred in the second instalment of the wildly successful The Fast and the Furious franchise, 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003). Playing an undercover U.S. Customs Service agent, Mendes was praised for her performance in one of the most successful films of the year. Starring alongside Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek and Johnny Depp, Mendes’ next role was in Robert Rodriguez’s Once Upon A Time in Mexico (2003) playing one of the villains, DEA agent Ajedrez Barillo. Showing her comedic talent, she starred in the Farrelly brothers’ Stuck on You alongside Matt Damon, before playing the female lead in the hit romantic comedy Hitch (2005), showing fantastic chemistry with the film’s male star, Will Smith. At this point in her career, Mendes made a conscious decision to work on high quality films rather than those with the biggest budgets. After making herself financially stable, she chose to take supporting performances in credible films in order to establish herself as a serious actress, and particularly roles that didn’t rely so much on her undeniable good looks. “I think those days are gone when you play the lead and only the lead,” said Mendes in an interview with Stylist. “For me it’s about the people I’m working with. It would bother me to pass something up for such an empty reason.”

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Continuing to work with some of Hollywood’s biggest actors, she starred alongside Joaquin Phoenix and Marc Wahlberg in the crime drama We Own the Night (2007). Over the next few years, she kept up a high turnover of movies, starring in The Spirit (2008), The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call - New Orleans (2009), The Other Guys (2010), Fast Five (2011) and Girl in Progress (2012). There was an obvious shift in the types of roles she was taking. “When it comes to being an actress I actually really love coming from a very raw place,” she told The Guardian. “Any opportunity I get to not wear make-up on set, I take. I really don’t care about looking beautiful in a film unless I have to for the character. I don’t check playback, I don’t even know anything about lighting. I love anything that gets me closer to the role. So I needed to turn down those things that could possibly pigeonhole me.” Despite choosing film roles that weren’t solely based on her looks, Mendes is frequently ranked amongst the most beautiful women in the world, and has appeared on the cover of countless publications as well as acting as an ambassador for some of the world’s leading brands. Mendes was employed by Revlon Cosmetics as an international spokeswoman and participant in their campaign to raise funds for breast cancer research. Some of the other brands she has represented include Cocio chocolate milk, Magnum ice cream, Revlon, Calvin Klein, Cartier, Thierry Mugler perfume, Reebok, Campari apéritif, Pantene shampoo, Morgan and Peek & Cloppenburg clothes. In an industry full of multi-talented stars, Mendes has proven she can compete with the best, showing off her singing ability in a duet with CeeLo Green on ‘Pimps Don’t Cry’ and recording a version of ‘The Windmills of Your Mind’. She has also shown ability as a fashion designer, creating a collection for New York & Company in 2013 and receiving acclaim for her demure yet sophisticated designs. In 2015, she launched her own makeup range, CIRCA which offers professional quality products traditionally found in the luxury market at an affordable price. As one of the most talked about women in Hollywood, her private life has inevitably been closely followed. After her long-term relationship with filmmaker George Augusto ended, Mendes began dating international movie icon Ryan Gosling after the pair co-starred in The Place Beyond the Pines in 2012. In one of the biggest roles of her career, Mendes’ performance was described by Entertainment Weekly as “quietly heartbreaking”. Working with Gosling again in his directorial debut Lost River (2014), she impressed as burlesque dancer, Cat. This proved to be her final film role to date as later that year, she gave birth to the couple’s first daughter, Esmeralda Amanda. Choosing not to employ a nanny, she took time off from work to care for her daughter and the family remain fiercely private - as much as is possible when you’re in the focus of the global media. With a world of possibilities ahead of her, Eva Mendes is in the enviable position of being able to choose a career path, whether that is a return to acting and modelling, a continuation of her foray into fashion design or something entirely new. What is certain is that she’ll approach it with the intelligence, optimism and enthusiasm for which she has become known.

Images from left to right: Eva with boyfriend Ryan Gosling Eva on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno Eva at the Los Angeles Premiere of The Spirit Eva launches Fall 2015 New York & Company Collection

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

LEICESTER’S FINEST JEWELLERS SINCE 1881

WE’VE MOVED The big moment has arrived and we are delighted to announce that the brand new Lumbers store in Leicester City Centre is now officially open. Situated at 62-66 High Street in the building that previously housed Dominoes Toy Store, it is now the largest jewellery shop by sq m in the UK. After months of hard work and over £1 million of investment, we are enjoying welcoming visitors to our new shop which now spreads across three floors and includes a larger jewellery, diamond and watch showroom, a gift department and an exhibition hall to house touring museum collections by various high profile brands. Not only this, we have also created an exclusive VIP section with an on-site catering kitchen, Champagne bar and dining area for up to 120 guests. The 16,000 sq ft space has helped to make way for a number of luxury brands to be added to our already wide offering which includes Breitling, TAG Heuer and the largest Chopard gift area in a UK jewellers shop. We are very proud to be the first new Omega account opened in the UK in seven years, and to celebrate this, we have created an exceptional in store boutique, to showcase the fabulous masterpieces of this historical horological brand. From the first watch to land on the moon, the Speedmaster, to James Bond’s watch of choice, Omega is one of the leading watch makers in the world. Another new addition is Aspinal of London, the quintessential English luxury lifestyle brand offering women’s designer handbags & purses, men’s wallets & luxury leather gifts – the first account of its type in the jewellery trade. We are also delighted to be home to the first bespoke wedding ring boutique by Brown & Newirth in the world. Following on from a wonderfully successful 35 year stay at our former Market Street address, we are looking forward to many more exciting years ahead on the High Street of Leicester. In a world full of national chain stores, we are proud to re-establish a family business back to a City High Street. All are very welcome and we hope to see you here soon! 62-66 High Street • Leicester • LE1 5YP T: 0116 255 1233 • E: info@lumbers.co.uk

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

French Connection Navy Blue Embellished Dress

£275

Ted Baker Embellished Crop Top

£189

Chopard at Lumbers Happy Animals scarf, 100% silk

£229

Chopard at Lumbers Happy Diamond Pen

£472

Ted Baker at Selfridges Skirt

Gucci at Lumbers

£249

18ct white gold Ring

£4,050

Gilda & Pearl at www.gildapearl.co.uk Harlow Bra and Knickers

Bra £95 Knickers £59

Gucci at Lumbers 18ct white gold Earings

£2,420 20

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Essences Insense´es at Selfridges Diptyque Perfume

£100

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Sexy Sienna

Combat the winter blues with a touch of sparkle and cast your eyes over this season’s most up-to-the-minute trends. Dazzling and divine, we have handpicked a selection of items that will enhance your winter wardrobe and help you be ready for any occasion.

Amazing Grace

Glitz & Glamour

Gilda & Pearl Greta Body

Dune

£75

Mojito Sandels

Birkin Brown

£99

Marc Cain

Charlotte Tilbury

Coat

Lipstick

£299

£23 each

Aspinal of London at Lumbers Silver Mini Tote

£595

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Get your body Autumn/Winter ready with Femi Health and Beauty Based in the heart of Leicester, Femi Health and Beauty is an award winning salon. Offering a full range of treatments including beauty, grooming and pampering services with luxury products including Decleor, Elemis, Jessica, PhD and Artist of Make Up. Femi Health and Beauty are proud to announce that they have recently won the Decleor Regional Salon of the Year for the 19th year running, proving testament to their reputation as a premier salon and treatment destination. As the days get shorter, the leaves start to change to beautiful hues of brown and red and the weather takes a turn, it’s time to make sure you’re ready from head to toe. Blustery winds and the change in temperature can have a huge effect on your body particularly your face, hands and feet.Let Femi Health and Beauty help to keep your skin healthy and beautiful. Revive dull, dry skin with a relaxing Aromaplastie facial treatment. Adapted to the individual, multi-active, 100% natural treatment is tailored to every skin type. Using a unique specialised mask, the treatment leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. Your hands are not only the part of your body that you use the most, but can also be the most neglected. The weather can wreak havoc on your hands making them dry, chapped and sore. A Jessica manicure is an exclusive treatment formulated to nourish hands, treat the cuticles and add colour to your hands with a shape and paint included. You may have put your feet away into your warm socks and boots, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look after them. A Jessica Deluxe Pedicure is a perfect treat for those tired feet. Especially beneficial for dry, cracked and arthritis prone feet, enjoy a refreshing soak and massage, followed by a moisturising boost using heated booties. Finishing with a file and paint from a selection of nail colours, this treatment will leave your feet feeling revitalised. Even during the Autumn/Winter months, your body needs extra care. Knees and elbows are prone to getting dry and sore as well as the rest of your skin lacking moisture. A full body exfoliation and moisturise at Femi Health and Beauty is a luxurious treatment using premium products to help you combat dryness. Your body is massaged and exfoliated to remove dead skin cells from the body. This is followed up by an application of rich moisturiser, leaving your skin nourished, hydrated and soothed. With 12 treatment rooms spread over three floors, Femi offers its customers a luxurious retreat and spa experience. Let the experienced team get you ready for the colder days ahead!

We have won regional Aroma Gold salon for over 18 years. Inspirational Decleor salon 2012. National Decleor Salon 2013 & this year have just won Decleor P latinum salon. 60 Highcross Street | Leicester | LE1 4NN | T: 0116 253 2393 Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am - 6pm

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

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

In June 2015, Champions took a huge leap forward in the music industry by signing the pop sensation, Blue. As one of the most successful boybands of all time, the four piece achieved global success and amassed an impressive nine top 5 singles and three number 1 albums in the UK. The boys took a short hiatus in 2005, but now they are back and about to celebrate their 15th anniversary. 28

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The band was formed in 2000 and their debut single ‘All Rise’ was released the following year, reaching number 4 in the UK Singles Chart. Their next two singles ‘Too Close’ and ‘If You Come Back’ both shot to number 1 and their debut album also reached the top of the charts, selling in excess of 1.8 million copies in the UK alone. Their reputation was cemented when they collaborated with musical legends, producing ‘Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word’ with vocals from Elton John and also ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours’ featuring vocals from Stevie Wonder. Blue are renowned for smooth harmonies and a combination of pop, rap and R&B. The group had a number of top hits, including ‘One Love’, ‘Get Down on It’ and ‘Breathe Easy’. The band members have also achieved individual success. Antony has a diverse history, starting out as an actor on the BBC children’s programme Grange Hill. Antony released solo material which included a top 20 single. He has completed a solo tour and become a high profile media personality after appearing on shows such as I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here and Never Mind the Buzzcocks. More recently he has been playing the lead role of Mickey Johnstone in the long-running West End musical, Blood-Brothers. His fellow band-member Duncan James also produced solo material. ‘I Believe my Heart’ which peaked at number 2 in the UK Singles Chart. He then turned his attention to modelling, acting and presenting, going on to have successful stints in West End musicals such as Legally Blonde and Chicago. Reality TV beckoned for Duncan and he reached the grand final of Dancing on Ice, narrowly missing out on the title. The third member Lee Ryan also released hugely successful solo material. His debut single ‘Army of Lovers’ peaked at number 3 in the UK charts. He even saw his track ‘Real Love’ featured as the lead song in the film Ice Age: The Meltdown. Lee also appeared as a media personality, featuring on shows such as Loose Women, Hell’s Kitchen and Friday Night with Jonathan Ross. His most recent venture was on Celebrity Big Brother in 2014.

The final band member Simon Webbe achieved incredible success as a solo artist and produced an album titled Sanctuary that went double platinum and featured two top 5 singles. His second album featured the track ‘Ride the Storm’ which was chosen as the lead song for the film Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. The two albums sold over 1 million copies in the UK alone. He is currently performing in pantomime and in 2014 reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing. The band was reunited when they represented the UK in the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest, a year that also marked their 10th anniversary. They embarked upon the reality TV programme ‘The Big Reunion’. The entire show sold out in under 5 minutes. This proved that the boys never left the hearts of fans around the world and persuaded them to embark upon a nationwide tour of their own. Blue joined a list of acts exclusively signed to Champions Music & Entertainment, including 2013 X Factor winner Sam Bailey and soul singer Andy Abraham. Following the launch of the Music and Entertainment arm in 2014, Champions have cemented their position as a major force in the industry. The new site, www.musicandbands.co.uk, features in excess of 1500 acts spanning categories ranging from DJs to magicians. The industry leading music and entertainment agency has unrivalled access to prominent solo artists, celebrities and entertainers designed to make any event truly unforgettable. Ranging from a magician for a children’s party, to an orchestral band to walk down the aisle to at your wedding, Champions has something to suit every occasion.

For more information on Blue, simply contact Cat Mitchell at Champions (UK) plc today by calling 07824 163 193 or 08453 31 30 31. Alternatively, email cmitchell@championsukplc.com

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

HOW TO FIND A GOOD PERSONAL TRAINER Good personal trainers are hard to find, but not impossible. The unfortunate truth is that you can go from total novice to completely qualified trainer in the space of 6 weeks if you’re willing to. The good news is that wherever you are in the world there will most likely be someone nearby who is a great trainer. All you need is a checklist to sort the wheat from the chaff, so that you don’t put your time and money (and maybe your health) into the hands of someone who isn’t up to scratch.

HERE IS MY LIST OF ESSENTIAL QUALITIES THAT YOUR FUTURE TRAINER MUST HAVE: A THOROUGH ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL

If you aren’t assessing then you’re guessing. You can never assume anything about your client, and therefore you need to make sure that your trainer isn’t assuming anything about you. There should be thorough assessments and evaluations before you even think about entering the gym Your trainer should dig deep about your goals and motivations, and have a good understanding of what makes you tick as a person. They should assess your history and lifestyle; medical history, social support, culinary skills, exercise history, family, job, lifestyle etc. They should assess you physically, range of motion, injuries, coordination, structural balance, posture and strength. They should assess your nutrition and your philosophy about food (even if you don’t think you have one). Missing any of this is unprofessional and is leaving blanks as all of this information influences their advice from day one and how they will progress you and make plans for you. STARTING WITH THE BASICS, AND NOT TRYING TO IMPRESS YOU

If you aren’t at least a little underwhelmed with the simplicity of your programme to begin with then there’s a good chance that it’s been organised together to impress you. If you are an advanced trainer and you have lots of experience at weight training then you may be given something a little more complicated, but the vast majority of new clients need to get the basics correct. Don’t confuse simple with easy, it should still be hard work. Also beware of the trainer who tries to chuck too much jargon at you in your sessions; it’s not useful and not helpful. Any trainer who asks you to abduct your arm to 90 degrees ensuring you engage your serratus to prevent scapula winging is an insecure tool trying to sound clever. A PROGRAMME

Does your new trainer have a programme designed for you or is he making it up freestyle? The coach might get away with it on the first session, potentially testing their programme and writing it down afterwards to make sure it’s all ok, but generally you should have a written programme with space to record what you’ve done every time you walk in the gym.

A four year old can come up with a programme on the spot which will be hard and have the potential to leave you in a pool of sweat, but that’s not the goal. The goal is an intelligent programme designed to change your body, not seeing how fast your coach can make you puke. If you’re into that sort of thing, give Crossfit a go. THEY SHOULD BE IN GOOD SHAPE

This might seem obvious for some, but the number of people who are fitness professionals who are out of shape is mind boggling. If you are a coach who (like most of us) deals mostly with fat loss clients and are anything other than lean, then you’re kidding yourself. No, you don’t have to necessarily be in shape to know how others should get in shape. But you absolutely have to be in shape to have any credibility when you are talking to clients. I won’t give any numbers of what trainers should aim for, because everyone looks different. But they should look like they practice what they preach AND be able to show you how they have progressed in the last 6 months on whatever they’re working on. EXAMPLES OF OTHERS THAT THEY HAVE HELPED

The last and most important thing to check is their client history. Have they taken someone like you before and got them a result, similar to what you want. If you are a diabetic 45 year old with arthritis and your coach only ever deals with 18 year old rugby players, is he really the best person for the job? Your coach should be able to show you examples (pictures) of their experience. THEY MUST BE A COACH

This is a small non-exhaustive list of the things that every trainer must have. Other obvious qualities include excellent interpersonal skills, being a good listener and being someone to confide in. There is a fine line between what is and isn’t within your scope of practice as a trainer, but most people who you work with won’t want nutrition and fitness advice as much as they need someone to motivate them and keep them accountable. They need a coach who specialises in fitness. Goal setting, overcoming mental/social barriers, overcoming obstacles, lifestyle balance, motivational language and setting the achievable plans (not necessarily the most rigorous) is what is required to get most people from A to B, and so should be an essential requirement in your coach. To see what happened when people made the decision to change, visit www.ufitstudio.co.uk/harriett-gilbert. To start your journey to changing your life, contact U Fit Studio on the details below. To be in with a chance to winning a FREE 90 minute life-changing consultation with Joe Hanney, please email us on hello@ufitstudio.co.uk, using the subject Aspirational. Tel: 0116 276 3411

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0116 276 3411

HELLO@UFITSTUDIO.CO.UK

UFITSTUDIO.CO.UK 31

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Over the last decade the lingerie and underwear market has focussed primarily on products for women with plus sized cups. Established manufacturers have extended their ranges up to K cups and beyond, while intimate apparel retailers have designated separate full bust or plus size shopping sections both online and in stores. All the focus towards the higher end of the alphabet scale, however, has not addressed the needs of a different group of lingerie consumers. Smaller-busted women have seldom had many choices when it comes to intimate apparel, with few established brands stocking more than a handful of A to AAA bras. Many women who possess smaller busts feel that there is nothing for them in the underwear stakes apart from teenage training bras, or that they are less feminine unless they can accentuate their busts by wearing cleavage enhancing underwear or unnatural boob enhancers. Little Women is an online specialist lingerie retailer with more than two decades’ experience in providing smaller-busted women with gorgeous lingerie, and over the last twenty years the outcome has always been the same for their customers – they feel feminine, grown up, coordinated and truly special. The business was born in the 1990s when media coverage even then focussed on bigger boobs. The “bigger is better” mentality prevailed, but it had a negative effect on those who were a B cup or smaller, as they were made to feel as they were not real women. Little Women knew that, despite all the figures being released indicating that the average UK bra size was at least a D cup, many, many women measure AAA, AA, A or B and have major difficulty in finding beautiful bras and swimwear that fits. Fast-forward twenty years and what began as a tentative mail order collection specialising in petite lingerie has now blossomed into a successful website stocking a wide range of styles specifically designed for women in 28 to 40 AA, A and B cups as well as, Little Women’s own exclusive range in sizes 32 – 40 AAA, AA and A cups. Little Women stock well-known brands such as B’tempted, Triumph, Royce, After Eden, Boobs & Bloomers, Silhouette, Sloggi and Sportjock – all carefully selected to complement the company’s own brand by offering gorgeous styles in smaller cups to customers. The collections on the website are exclusive to Little Women and you won’t find them anywhere else. They have been designed specifically in small cup sizes with matching briefs and thongs and they are produced in small quantities on a seasonal basis - once they’re gone, they’re gone!

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To find out more about

visit the website

www.littlewomen.com or contact by telephone on

0115 978 8057 or by email at

enquiries@littlewomen.com 33

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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. The 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 Email:

MahiMahi@TobagoBeachApartment.com Telephone:

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07544 051 991

03/11/2015 09:28

you know we’ve

moved...

But do you know who’s moved

with us?

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Lum

Now open 62 - 66 High Street Leicester LE1 5YP

www.lumbers.co.uk

17:29

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0116 255 1233

info@lumbers.co.uk

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UNMISTAKABLY LONDON. DISTINCTIVELY JUMEIRAH.

Experience the ultimate London stay at Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Knightsbridge. Indulge yourself at The Peak Health Club & Spa with indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. The luxurious rooms and suites offer stunning views over London and dine in style at the award-winning Rib Room Bar & Restaurant.

Visit jumeirah.com or call 020 7235 1234 to find out more.

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20/10/2015 16:29:21

ST JAMES HOTEL NOTTINGHAM’S STYLISH HIDDEN GEM

the perfect city retreat...

ottingham’s St James Hotel continues to go from strength to strength following recent refurbishments and a relaunch of No/6, its new lounge bar. Achieving rave reviews on Trip Advisor and described as a “hidden gem,” this independent boutique hotel, is just a stone’s throw away from the historic Nottingham castle. It boasts a range of sumptuous bedroom designs - from the youthful crash pads to The Penthouse, which is one of only a handful of hotel penthouses in the UK to feature a baby grand piano. With refurbishments made in 2014 and inspired by the luxurious grand palazzos of Venice, the St James Hotel has been transformed to a stylish sanctuary offering a relaxing atmosphere for its guests. All bedrooms and suites have been uniquely designed to provide comfort with elegance and style throughout, making St James one of the most luxurious hotels in Nottingham. The hotel also hosts lavish weddings, meetings and celebrations in beautifully decorated suites, with civil ceremonies taking place in the ‘King Charles’ and ‘Henrietta’ rooms, named following the former King of England raising his standard on the adjacent street of the hotel 373 years ago. The intimate wedding venue offers five different rooms to host ceremonies, all with a distinctive character and defined décor. Couples can also take advantage of the nearby castle for stunning photo opportunities.

A HOTEL INSPIRED BY ART Inspired by the grand palazzos of Venice, the St James hotel offers guests a luxurious stay when visiting Nottingham. The hotel boasts 87 uniquely designed bedrooms and suites, cocktail lounge and wedding & conference facilities for up to 180 guests.

Call 0115 941 1114 or visit www.stjames-hotel.com to book your stay. St James Hotel, Rutland Street, Nottingham, NG1 6EB Tel: 0115 941 1114 E-mail: info@stjames-hotel.com

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“2016 is set to be even more successful for the St James Hotel, following on from the No/6 Bar relaunch in September, and we hope to open the outdoor seating area ahead of the warmer weather. “This will mean not just guests can enjoy the fantastic sights with our famous cocktails in the Nottingham sunshine, but also passers-by. “We also have some very exciting events and offers lined up for 2016 and we are all confident that we can build on our recent successes throughout next year.”

Hotel manager Richard Johal said: “The St James has really come into its own in 2015 with rooms and suites being used all year round.

Wine tasting, cocktail masterclasses and real ale evenings are all on the agenda, as well as themed nights throughout each season. These include rooms being transformed into winter wonderlands for Christmas parties and a timeless Black & White Ball for New Year’s Eve.

“We want to create a real mix of facilities and entertainments for guests – and businesses within the cities. We have rooms for meetings, events and entertainment. We also hold a wedding fair and host live entertainment most weekends in the No/6 bar.

The revamped No/6 Bar, which was relaunched in September 2015, also showcases emerging artistic talent with Nottingham’s photographer Drew Shearwood currently demonstrating his creative flair on the walls of the Left Gallery, close to the downstairs bar.

“We believe it’s important that all aspects of the hotel are busy and we use all of our fantastic facilities to their full capabilities throughout the day. From our delicious St James breakfasts to our night-caps in the No/6 Bar, we believe we can offer excellence for our guests.

Counting Sir Elton John among his fans, Drew’s pictures are attracting lots of interest from the city and beyond. For more information about the St James Hotel, visit their website www.stjames-hotel.com

23/10/2015 16:29

ST JAMES HOTEL NOTTINGHAM’S STYLISH HIDDEN GEM

the perfect city retreat...

Call 0115 941 1114 or visit www.stjames-hotel.com to book your stay. St James Hotel, Rutland Street, Nottingham, NG1 6EB Tel: 0115 941 1114 E-mail: info@stjames-hotel.com

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Hotel manager Richard Johal said: “The St James has really come into its own in 2015 with rooms and suites being used all year round.

23/10/2015 16:29

BELGRAVIA AT ITS BEST

Located in one of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel offers a warm welcome with a choice of stylish guest rooms and suites. Enjoy all-day dining in Lowndes Bar & Kitchen or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool or Jacuzzi at the nearby Peak Health Club & Spa. For more information, visit jumeirah.com or call +44 (0)20 7823 1234

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20/10/2015 16:30:14

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29/10/2015 10:03

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Deakin and Francis at Lumbers Sterling Silver and Red Enamel Racing Car Cufflinks £300 Paul Smith at Christopher Scotney Micro Paisley Shirt £165

Hugo Boss Black Label at Lumbers Laptop Bag £379

Oliver Sweeney at Christopher Scotney Socks £17 each

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Aspinal of London at Lumbers 6oz Leather Hip Flask £49

Jeffery West at Christopher Scotney Chocolate Brogues £259

Paul Smith at Christopher Scotney Boxed Cufflinks £89

Paul Smith at Christopher Scotney Scarf £95

Jeffery West at Christopher Scotney Boots £259

Aspinal of London at Lumbers Classic Travel Wallet £125

Montblanc at Lumbers Nightflight Wallet £165

Omega at Lumbers Limited Edition James Bond Seamaster 15,007 Exclusively Made £4,630

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

TIME FLIES... At Lumbers, we have certainly felt the pressure that time brought on when working to a tight deadline to complete our new Leicester High Street jewellery emporium. With the new store comes an expanded watch offering, bringing exciting new watch partners to Lumbers including Swiss giants OMEGA. Each of our brands now has much more room to display a wide selection of fabulous timepieces and offer even more choice to you, our clients. We have made Lumbers a destination watch store in the Midlands, and we look forward to welcoming you if you have not had a chance to visit already.

Parmigiani Tonda 1950 Squelette in Rose Gold This extra thin model showcases its technical prowess, revealing the movement in minute detail.

£30,500

Tag Heuer Aquaracer Ceramic Calibre 5 Automatic movement, with 41mm case and ceramic bezel.

£1,850

Hublot Big Bang 44mm case Automatic chronograph movement, in steel and ceramic.

£10,200 46

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Omega Constellation Steel and red gold, in 27mm case, with diamond set Mother of Pearl dial and diamond bezel.

£7,360

Omega Nightflight Moonwatch Co-axial chronograph movement in black ceramic.

£8,205

Breitling Navitimer 01 46mm case with automatic movement. The Legend just got larger!

£5,990

Chopard Mille Miglia GTS Vintage styling in steel. Automatic movement.

£3,930

LEICESTER’S FINEST JEWELLERS SINCE 1881

62-66 High Street Leicester LE1 5YP

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0116 2551233 www.lumbers.co.uk info@lumbers.co.uk Follow us to find out about the move

03/11/2015 09:40

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

BREGUET’S WATCHMAKING: TRADITION AND BOLDNESS Since its beginnings in 1775, the Manufacture Breguet has earned the distinction of applying flawless style and technique to the creation of exceptional timepieces. Beyond technical research, the company is also distinguished by its pursuit of elegance. Marrying beauty with mechanics, far from being contradictory, makes up a whole dedicated to the pursuit of one single purpose: to produce outstanding creations. Over the years, Breguet has striven to perpetuate this creative vision and to pursue the quest for precision that was so important to its founder. Under the leadership of its President and CEO Marc A. Hayek, the company has broken free of horological taboos such as magnetism, by exploring new possibilities and unusual materials. This approach has enabled it to introduce a number of innovations designed to improve the regularity of its mechanisms and to shift horological paradigms. Breguet is one of the few watch manufacturers that does all its engine-turned engravings in the traditional way, and it has recently expanded its workshops to keep ancient craft skills alive and to unite its artistic crafts in one location. Breguet’s distinguished past is frequently revived by its craftsmen and women, who constantly create new timepieces that pay tribute to the past in a contemporary way.

62-66 High Street, Leicester, LE1 5YP 0116 2551233 www.lumbers.co.uk info@lumbers.co.uk Follow us to find out about the move

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BREGUET COLLECTIONS Inspired by Breguet’s historical “subscription” watches, the Tradition collection launched in 2005 and back in the spotlight this year, is an admirable example of this approach. The new models launched this year; The Tradition Independent Chronograph, Tradition Automatic Retrograde Seconds Hand & the Tradition Minute Repeater Tourbillon all house a number of Breguet patents and respectively break new boundaries. The collection celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and is a powerful tribute to the memory of A.-L.Breguet. Hand finishing and “grenaile” decoration embellish the smallest components of each movement, just as they did two centuries ago. The Tradition line is undisputable the quintessential expression of the purity and complexity of time. The Classique line of watches faithfully reflects Breguet’s technical principles, artistry and traditional values. Whether it’s the extra-thin models – both manually-wound and automatic - or the complication watches, they are a refinement of the brands past and the original Breguet features. In certain models the noble materials used at that time, the dials in “grand feu” enamel or decorated with exclusive hand-engraved on a rose engine patterns and the hand painted Arabic numerals still delight collectors and customers of the brand today. The Marine line affirms Breguet’s traditional values while reinterpreting them in a contemporary style to produce watches with a much more sporting character. Developed from models created by A.-L. Breguet in his position as watchmaker to the Royal French Navy, the Marine line is designed to meet all the requirements of contemporary living; a combination of elegance and sports performance. The Reine de Naples line is distinctly feminine collection. It was created in 2002 and inspired by the very first watch designed by A.-L. Breguet for Caroline Murat in 1812. The description carefully recorded in the company’s archive suggests the refinement and ingenuity of the piece: “repeater of oblong form…said watch mounted in a bracelet of hair embellished with gold”. These watches are modern, refined expressions of softness and elegance.

Type XX chronographs were designed in the 1950s for the French Air Force and Naval Air Force. A modern civilian line with a self-winding mechanical movement was produced for the Breguet collection. Its sporting character and unusual features immediately appealed to a demanding clientele that appreciated its purity, originality and technical personality. Fitted with the Flyback function developed for certain military flight patterns, the Type XX line is produced in two versions; the Aeronavale and the Transatlantic with date. Today Breguet has a sense of modernity that respects its cultural heritage and traditional values. It is not only the connoisseurs who understand that owning a Breguet means owning something exceptional. For many people the originality and timeless style of the watches expresses a philosophy and an identity that clearly sets them apart. Under President and CEO Marc A. Hayek, Breguet is committed to respecting the legacy of its founder. The company offers an increasingly fascinating range of timepieces that combine refined design with technical complications. Lumbers Jewellers are only one of four retailers in the UK chosen by Breguet to officially stock the brand. A terrific responsibility, Lumbers are hugely proud to sell a brand with such provenance and technical capability. Lumbers Jewellers have acted as broker to the sale of some of Breguet’s most sought after timepieces. Renowned collectors flock to Lumbers Jewellers for both their industry leading service and client confidentiality. Visit Lumbers Jewellers in store today and discover the ultimate prestige and exclusivity that Breguet has to offer.

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03/11/2015 09:42

Porsche recommends

and

If history is any indication, you’re looking at the future of sports cars. The new 911. Ever ahead. For more information call 01163 198 715 or call into our Centre.

Porsche Centre Leicester Fletton Close, Thurmaston Lane, Leicester LE4 9LP info@porscheleicester.co.uk www.porscheleicester.co.uk

Official fuel economy figures for the 911 Carrera S Coupé in mpg (l/100km): urban 23.2 – 28.0 (12.2 – 10.1), extra urban 42.8 – 44.1 (6.6 – 6.4), combined 32.5 – 36.7 (8.7 – 7.7). CO2 emissions: 199 – 174 g/km. The mpg and CO2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated tests, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

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RACING IN STYLE. World sponsor and official timekeeper since 1988.

mille miglia Gts power control (168566-3001). Chopard movement, Calibre 01.08-C

MI LLE MI GLI A

2015/1111 - Aspirational Magazine / Lumbers - 005MM - 230 x 285 mm - UK - 19/10/15

130 London Road, Leicester LE2 1EB

0116 254 3957

www.christopherscotney.co.uk

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29/10/2015 17:41

The all-new Audi Q7 The Legend continues.

Few cars have what it takes to become a legend. But the all-new Audi Q7 is one of them. It’s lighter, more agile and more advanced – with seven seats, a luxurious interior and quattro® all-wheel-drive designed to take on the most challenging conditions. The Legend continues at Leicester Audi. Book your test drive now.

Leicester Audi 212 Narborough Road South Hazel Drive Braunstone Leicester LE3 2LD 0116 282 8200 www.sytner.co.uk/audi/leicester

Solutions Personal Contract Plan# representative example from Audi Finance subject to 8,000 miles per annum for the Audi Q7 S line 3.0 TDI quattro 272 PS 8-sp Tiptronic. Duration 47 monthly payments of* Customer deposit Deposit contribution Recommended on-the-road price Amount of credit Optional final payment Total amount payable by customer Total amount payable Acceptance fee Option to purchase fee Rate of interest Representative APR Excess Mileage

4 years £579.00 £5,500.00 £1,000.00 £53,796.46 £47,296.46 £29,497.50 £62,270.50 £63,270.50 £125.00 £60.00 6.16% Fixed 6.3% 10.8p per mile

Offer expires on 31 December 2015

Follow, Like and Subscribe to Sytner Audi

Official fuel consumption figures for the Audi Q7 S line 3.0 TDI quattro 272 PS 8-sp Tiptronic in mpg (l/100km): Urban 44.1 (6.4), Extra Urban 50.4 (5.6), Combined 47.9 (5.9). CO2 emissions: 153g/km. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Image is for illustrative purposes only. #At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) own the vehicle: pay the optional final payment; ii) return the vehicle: subject to fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. *Available on Solutions Personal Contract Plan. 18s and over. Subject to availability. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Offer available when ordered by 31 December 2015 from participating Audi Centres. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication [October 2015]. Freepost Audi Finance. Finance providers may pay us for introducing you to them. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them.

BOOK NOW

01509 85 29 27

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EA SB

European Association of Speakers Bureaux

30/10/2015 10:52

A Tribute to Yorkshire & England Legend Brian Close CBE It was with great sorrow that we learnt in mid-September of the death aged 84 of the former England cricket captain, Brian Close CBE. Over the course of an incredible 28 year first class career he established a reputation that transcends cricket to this day. The legendary all-rounder was a bona fide gentleman of the game and will be sorely missed by everyone in the global cricket family and by anyone whose life he touched. Born into a working class family in the West Riding of Yorkshire on 24 February 1931, Brian was passionate about sport from an early age. Practising his bowling and batting in the back yard with his father Harry as a child, he soon showed signs of the latent talent that would take him to the top of cricket. In 1949 Brian won a regular place in Yorkshire’s county cricket squad and went on to be a leading light at the club for over 20 years, captaining them to four County Championship titles in 1963, 1966, 1967 and 1968. That same debut season also saw him selected to play for England in the third Test match at Old Trafford against the touring New Zealanders, making him England’s youngest ever Test player at the tender age of just 18 years and 149 days, a record he still holds over 65 years later. In addition to being England’s youngest Test player, he also has the best Test win percentage of any England captain to spend more than five matches in the role, winning six and drawing one of his seven Tests in charge between 1966 and 1967. At the end of the 1970 season he left Yorkshire to spend seven years with Somerset, where he achieved folk hero status and helped to nurture the talents of both Sir Ian Botham and Sir Viv Richards. It was for a passage of play against the latter’s famous West Indies side in 1976 that Brian Close is perhaps best remembered, facing down a brutal assault of short, 90mph deliveries from Michael Holding, shaking off blows to the chest and dodging balls rearing up around his ears – and all this without the helmets and protective gear we see as standard in the modern game. By the time he retired from county cricket at the end of the 1977 he had scored just under 35,000 graceful first-class runs, taken 1,168 dismissals with his deceptive right-arm off-breaks and made over 800 catches as a fielder. His Test career had spanned 27 years, a feat unimaginable today. Upon his retirement, Brian served as an England selector and was elected Chairman of the Yorkshire Cricket Sub-Committee, a role which saw him rubbing up against the inimitable Geoffrey Boycott on many occasions. Brian’s charm, insight and wit also enabled him to forge a sterling reputation as a respected after dinner speaker and he soon became a great friend of the Champions (UK) plc family, taking part in the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship golf tournament on a number of occasions and supporting many of the charitable events we manage. In 2009 we were proud to pay tribute to Brian, hosting a lovely event in his honour at the former Walkers Stadium in Leicester. Everyone at Aspirational Magazine would like to express our heartfelt and sincerest condolences to Brian’s friends and family. 55

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

For information on Memberships or Residential Breaks at Archerfield Links please visit

www.archerfieldgolfclub.com 56

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Archerfield Links on Scotland’s Golf Coast welcomed the European Senior Tour for the first time this August with the Prostate Cancer UK Scottish Senior Open.

Winner of the amateur prize in the Alliance pro-am was 18 year old William Swann, son of Scunthorpe United Chairman Peter Swann, who was playing alongside Gordon Manson.

A field of 60 professionals including course designer David J Russell, defending champion Mark Davis and tour debutant Paul Broadhurst were paired up with amateur partners including Sir Ian Botham, Dennis Taylor and Ray Clemence for the Alfred Dunhill Links style three day event.

“I’d like to thank Gordon for all the help he has given me this week,” said 18 year-old Swann who plays off ten. “This is the first pro-am I’ve played in and it’s been fantastic. Gordon was also a real gentleman which made the whole of the last two days something I won’t forget in a hurry.”

Dennis Taylor: “It’s great to be up here. I jump at any chance I get to come back to Archerfield. I love the place. I joined here about nine years ago. I’m four hours away, I live near Chester but I try to come up here as often as I can.

The 6837 yard par 72 Fidra Links proved a tough test for the 60 professionals competing on the final day, with Paul Broadhurst finally claiming the title after the second playoff hole from Austrian Gordon Manson.

Playing with the boys here is great too. All the senior professionals are fantastic. I don’t get to play in many of their pro-ams these days but the Senior Tour players are all great characters and have time for everybody. It’s very refreshing and it’s also good to be contributing to what is such a great cause.”

“I have to admit I’m a bit surprised because I’ve got a dreadful play-off record. I was two from 12 before today and none from four on the European Tour, so I suppose you could say I was due one. This means a lot to me. It’s been nine years since I won a tournament as big as this so I’m a bit emotional at the moment.” – Paul Broadhurst

Paul Broadhurst and DJ Russell

Sir Ian Botham and Gordon Brand Jr

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A NEW CHAPTER RENOVATIONS BEGIN AT HISTORIC GLEDDOCH HOUSE HOTEL

estled in the Scottish hills, overlooking the River Clyde, the historic Gleddoch House Hotel is set to undergo major renovations after being taken over by new owners earlier this year.

Designed by J. Hamilton Stutt in 1974, Gleddoch Golf Club has a reputation of being one of the most scenic golf clubs in the West of Scotland.

Originally built as the family home of Sir William Lithgow in the 1920’s, Gleddoch House will see a complete overhaul following its acquisition by the Johal family of Nottingham.

The 6,283 yard course represents a fair test for golfers of all standards and welcomes experienced golfers and beginners alike. It features undulating fairways, large greens and a good variety of holes requiring even the best golfers around to use every club from their bags.

The 75-bedroom hotel is steeped in history, which the new owners are keen to preserve throughout the refurbishment. The spacious and soon to be redecorated rooms range from classic doubles to suites and will include modern essentials such as free WiFi, LED smart TVs and complimentary toiletries from Elemis. Most of the bedrooms benefit from fabulous views overlooking the River Clyde or the beautifully designed and manicured golf course. Harjeet Johal, director of Gleddoch, said: “The hotel has had such an illustrious past and it is our firm intention to proudly celebrate its heritage while creating a hotel that will be known for its design, location, individuality and service. “With this hotel, we intend to pioneer the design concept of chic country houses, in that the property will be a harmonious fusion of history, modernity and style.” The hotel which is set within a four-hundred acre estate on the outskirts of Glasgow boasts an 18-hole golf course and a luxury Elemis spa.

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“The property will be a harmonious fusion of history, modernity and style.” HARJEET JOHAL

Visitors can also take advantage of the four-hole academy course and 300-yard practice ground with covered bays - a golfer’s paradise. The club is always keen to recruit new members for mid-week and weekend competitions, arranged throughout the year. The hotel’s spa and leisure facilities are set to be transformed into a modern, first-class, luxury day spa with extensive treatments, experiences and relaxation areas.

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All hotel guests have complimentary use of all the services including a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, while energetic visitors can burn some calories in the fully equipped gym. Spa treatments are also offered by trained professional therapists. As a popular wedding venue, Gleddoch House will offer couples a variety of bespoke wedding packages in its beautifully redecorated suites. With picturesque private grounds, landscaped gardens and stunning views as far as the eye can see, this is the perfect location for any couple looking to say ‘I do’. The hotel is licensed to host civil ceremonies and partnerships and staff will be on hand to guide couples through every last detail of the event. Suites can be transformed into state-of-the-art facilities for business meetings and conferences where staff can cater for both private and corporate functions.

STUNNING VIEWS OVER THE RIVER CLYDE AND BEN LOMOND.

The renovations will begin in Autumn, with the first phase of refurbishment due to be completed by spring 2016.

The Gleddoch’s event team have a fantastic track record of making business functions a success.

The hotel is ideally located, just 15 minutes from the international airport and 20 minutes from Glasgow city centre and is only 35 minutes from the world famous and tranquil Loch Lomond.

With exciting future events planned throughout 2016, Gleddoch is set to be the ideal venue for any celebration.

For more information about Gleddoch, visit their website www.gleddoch.com.

THE SUNDAY DRIVER Enjoy a relaxing stay at Gleddoch and play on our championship golf course with stunning views over Ben Lomond and the River Clyde. Two rounds on our championship course* Three course dinner Accommodation in a twin room on a Sunday night Full Scottish breakfast £139 for two people *Rounds can be played on the Sunday and/or Monday

Tel: +44(0)1475 540711 • info@gleddoch.com • www.gleddoch.com Gleddoch, Old Greenock Road, Langbank, Glasgow PA14 6YE

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Search for ‘Gleddoch’ on your favourite social networks.

23/10/2015 14:33 16:29 30/10/2015

M ESUR E ET D ÉMESUR E *

TONDA 1950 SQUELET TE

Ultra-thin ( 2.6 mm ) automatic skeleton movement with micro-rotor Hand finished movement, case and dial Hermès alligator strap Engineered and made by Parmigiani Manufacture 100% Swiss www.parmigiani.ch

62-66 High Street, Leicester LE1 5YP, Tel. 0116 255 1233, www.lumbers.co.uk

Parmigiani_HQ • Visual: Tonda 1950 • Magazine: Aspirational_Lumbers (GB) • Language: English • Doc size: 240 x 295 mm • Calitho #: 10-15-113132 • AOS #: PF_02261 • EB 27/10/2015

546212-17 | AD | Plane | UK | Montblanc M | Aspirational Magazine | 230 x 285 mm | en | t 3, b 3, r 3, l 3 mm

Montblanc M and Hugh Jackman Crafted for New Heights This new iconic writing instrument expresses Montblanc’s ﬁne writing culture in the distinctive design language of Marc Newson. The black precious resin and its minimalist understatement disguise some intriguing details. The unique magnetic closing mechanism automatically aligns the cap with the Montblanc emblem on the perfectly ﬂat “plateau”. In the launch edition, the Au585 gold nib bears the designer’s initials. Visit and shop at Montblanc.com

62 – 66 High Street, Leicester LE1 5YP T: 0116 255 1233 www.lumbers.co.uk

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

RUGBY WORLD CUP AND BEER TASTING

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On Friday 18th September Bray & Bray Solicitors hosted a Rugby World Cup and Beer Tasting event at its head office in Leicester, to coincide with the England v Fiji match which took place that evening. Over 70 clients, referrers and colleagues attended Bray & Bray’s event, which began with a beer tasting session by Wicked Hathern Brewery. After sampling 8 beers, guests then enjoyed their favourite drinks throughout the match. Speaking about the event, Tim Gladdle Senior Partner at Bray & Bray comments: “Holding social events like these is something that is extremely important to us. I’m pleased to say that the beer tasting was excellent and will be added to our list of hosted events to do again; many of which we are renowned for across the East Midlands. Whether it’s a pint of beer at our sporting events, a glass of prosecco at our ladies events, or a cup of coffee at The Business Exchange Network; we always really enjoy spending time with clients and contacts whilst sharing a drink or two!”

CONTACT T: 0116 254 8871 E: info@braybray.co.uk www@braybray.co.uk Spa Place, 36-42 Humberstone Road Leicester, LE5 0AE Bray & Bray Solicitors has offices in Leicester, Market Harborough and Hinckley and provides legal services to businesses and individuals alike across the Midlands and the UK.

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17/04/2015 11:16

Unparalleled performance, for all of life’s roads. Bentayga.

Introducing the extraordinary SUV. Visit our Leicester Dealer. www.BentleyMotors.com or call 0116 319 39 69. Bentayga fuel consumption – EU Drive Cycle in mpg (l/100 km)*: Urban 14.7 (19.2); Extra Urban 31.0 (9.1); Combined 22.1 (12.8). CO2 Emissions 292 g/km.

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ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A MANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WORLD

TAILORED TO YOU by Adrian Barrows With two decades of experience, Adrian Barrows has become synonymous with the attention to detail and quality of garment only associated with the most respected and renowned tailors in the nation. Known for his personal service, Adrian has a hugely loyal client base that would go nowhere else for tailored clothing.

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03/11/2015 09:48

Choosing the right suit for your wedding day is one of those decisions that can become all-consuming, writes Adrian Barrows of The Bespoke Tailor. On your wedding day all eyes may be on the bride, but that doesn’t mean you should take a complete backseat on the sartorial front. On the contrary, your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life so you need to be suited and booted and ready to make an impact. Whatever form your wedding ceremony takes, it certainly warrants looking sharp for the occasion and a fair degree of co-ordinating your groomsmen as well. This doesn’t mean you all need to look identical; suits that are similar in colour with a cut and style that complement each other can actually be more effective. Unless your wedding is a black tie or a top hat and tails event, then I recommend that you always go classic. It may be tempting to wear something that is bang on trend, but think of the photos in years to come. Do you really want to look a fashion victim? Of course you don’t, this is why wearing a suit that is a timeless classic is the best option. This means a classic two piece or three piece suit that is tailored to your exact body shape, should be the order of the day. For modern and simple elegance this is the only way to go.

With regards to colour then you can never go wrong with a deep navy blue suit or charcoal grey suit. In the summer you can get away with lighter shades of grey and blue depending on the exact location of where you’re getting married. Always avoid suits with heavy patterning or going with pinstripes – you will either distract or look way too corporate for such an occasion. The cut of the suit is very much down to personal preference and there are really no rights or wrongs on this subject. Singlebreasted suits are simple, smart and contemporary. Double-breasted suits add a bit more formality and sense of occasion. Three-piece suits also add more formality and with a matching waistcoat you can cut a very elegant figure though in the warmer summer months you might regret going for this option. When it comes to the wedding day dress shirt then a nice crisp white shirt is the obvious classic choice and when combined with a beautifully woven silk tie that is finely patterned, it becomes an ensemble that is hard to beat. Your wedding is not the time to wear brightly coloured ties or look too business-like so avoiding power colours like red is always advisable. And finally on to the shoes. A pair of black highly polished Oxfords or Brogues that compliment the suit you’re wearing will be the perfect finishing touch to your simple but very elegant wedding attire. All you need to do now is make sure the photographs do you justice!

For more information about being the best dressed man at your wedding please see www.thebespoketailor.co.uk Adrian Barrows 07968 438717

The Bespoke Tailor Mobile: 07968 438 717 Email: info@thebespoketailor.co.uk www.thebespoketailor.co.uk @TweetingTailor

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

A leading Midlands’ based fly fishing emporium, the Game Angling Consultancy has become the destination store for keen fly fishers throughout the country.

Haukadalsa River, located 150km north of Reykjavík. Known for its fantastic access and very high per rod catch averages, the river is known to yield 15-26 salmon a day for a skilled fisher.

Stocking a vast array of equipment from likes of Sage, Simms, Hardy’s, Loop, Scott and Thomas & Thomas, it is no wonder that the Game Angling Consultancy is so highly regarded. The stock offering doesn’t end there either, with their comprehensive selection of Hardy fly rods available in store in every range and size possible, something that has not been replicated anywhere else in the UK.

Despite its relatively small 8km length, the Haukadalsa has formed 40 wonderful fly fishing pools from source to mouth. The river also became famous for its crystal clear waters and incredibly healthy fish it carries, allowing the sport of fly-fishing to be enjoyed to the full.

Game Angling Consultancy CEO Captain Tony Spacey has impressive experience of fly-fishing and fisheries all over the world. Leading guided days in some of the most prestigious waters in the world, Tony can cater to almost any level of skill and experience, giving all participants real value to their fishing days away. The latest upcoming major excursion for the Game Angling Consultancy is their July/August 2016 trip to Iceland. It’s an exclusive and undoubtedly special experience to fish salmon at the

After a successful day of fishing, guests are welcomed back to the newly refurbished fishing lodge, acting as your second home whilst staying in Iceland. Exclusive fine dining experience courtesy of Swedish chef Robert Mohsen will be served every day, providing a hearty footing to get the most from your time fly-fishing. Whether you wish to drop by the Game Angling Consultancy to sample their latest industry leading stock, or to take part in a fishing experience with them both in the UK or overseas, the expertise and quality of the Game Angling Consultancy’s product and service offering will be abundantly clear.

For more information on the

Game Angling Consultancy’s Icelandic salmon fishing trip, contact Captain Tony Spacey on 01332 331 548 today!

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Captain Tony Spaceyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enthusiasm for his business and the sport it has founded upon is evident: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Having a business that also is my hobby is hugely rewarding. I love sharing the experience of fishing in some of the best waters in the world with my clients and friends and welcome anyone who wishes to join us in Iceland to get in touch. We are set to have a fabulous time in July/ August and hopefully the weather is with us too!â&#x20AC;?

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Here at Aspirational Magazine we have put together this section to meet the demands of your household. Whether you are looking for a new house, or if your current home is a blank canvas and in need of some design ideas, this section is for you. So sit back and let the next few pages fill you with ideas. Established in 2003 and with a central base in Leicester, SLM Builders provide a variety of building services to the private and public sectors. They are a conscientious team that are dedicated to providing a high end and a reliable level of service to their clients. Their residential and commercial services range from small alterations to new build houses, and from schools to factories. As a family business, based in Leicester, Plug Interiors pride themselves on standing out from the crowd with their interesting bathrooms, kitchens and interiors. The combination of providing top of the range modern designs and forming close bonds with their clients is what makes them a great overall package. Marks Electrical is the biggest independent retailer of domestic appliances in the UK. They have 28 years of experience under their belt, including being awarded the title of Internet Retailer of the Year in 2014. Everybody deserves to feel safe and secure, so whether your property is commercial or residential, with their expertise, Abel Alarms provides top of the range security systems to ensure that you do.

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Bentons are the property experts, and over their four pages you will be able to see for yourself why. With some of the most exclusive properties on the market, the house you have been waiting to find might just be a few pages away! Ventola Projects are specialists in electrical instillations, LED lighting, shop fitting, building maintenance and metal/acrylic fabrication. They have an expert team that cater to client demands. Putting energy efficiency at the forefront of what they do, the team always consciously looking for ways to save energy. Cookers of Distinction provide high quality cookers and appliances that will become the focus point of any kitchen. They understand that the kitchen is often the room where the entertaining happens, where guests can sit, relax and sip a glass of wine whilst you showcase your hosting skills. But without reliable kitchen appliances, the night could end in disaster. Cookers of Distinction offer a range of products, from contemporary to classic, in a variety of styles and colours, to help you complete the kitchen youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always dreamt of. Floors of Stone are a leading supplier of stone floor tiles and porcelain tiles, offering the best stone flooring prices in the UK. Always looking for new, exciting natural stone tiles and porcelain flooring to add to their extensive range, they are certainly worth a visit.

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SLM BUILDERS Building their way to the top SLM Building Contractors was established in Leicestershire in 2003, and ever since they have quite literally built themselves their deserved reputation. They have worked on many successful projects, ranging from commercial buildings to residential. As a professional company they are concerned with not only the work that they do, but the success of the business they are working on. Most recently SLM have taken on a huge project, working with Lumbers Jewellers to refurbish and launch their brand new store. SLM have taken on board Lumbers’ drive to become ‘one of the finest jewellers in the country’ by taking the old, in the form of the previous Dominoes Toy Store in Leicester City Centre, and replacing it with the new, a hugely luxurious design and contemporary layout for the Lumbers business to thrive in. SLM strive to work to any design brief given, having experience in both traditional and contemporary designs. This is where the design of the new Lumbers store has been thought about right down to the finer details. The exterior of the shop plays with the traditional, with large glass window displays, and time travels through to the interior, with its bursts of bold colours and curved edges, that scream modern day sophistication. An exclusive VIP area has also been designed. Up the grand staircase there is a calming feel to the room designed to make dedicated clients feel more special and their purchases more personal. If the space and the size of the project at Lumbers doesn’t quite gain bragging rights, then perhaps another of SLM’s recent refurbishment projects will. Based in Costock, Loughborough, brand agency Champions (UK) plc were looking for a stylish new build for their offices. SLM built on a large plot, a modern building that stands out from the surrounding landscape. The building is an obvious indication of SLM’s dedication to creating something unique, with its up to date wooden cladding exterior, and ceiling to floor, glass windows. SLM were there for every step of the process ensuring the design brief they were given was met, and to make sure Champions stood out, in more ways than one.

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For more information on SLM and how they can help you with either a commercial or residential construction project, contact them today.

SLM Builders Contractors Ltd 37 Melrose Street | Leicester | LE4 6FD T: 0116 276 5333 E: info@slmbuilders.co.uk | www.slmbuilders.co.uk

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Interesting Interiors. Whether it's a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or living area we create interiors that capture your imagination. Through clever design, we can transform every element of your space into something functional and interesting. With access to the most innovative product and design ideas from Europe's leading brands there is no limit to what we can create for you. By listening to you and understanding your needs, we can translate your ideas into interesting interiors. PRESOtf.Q

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Poultney Cottage Farm Whitcroft Lane Ulverscroft Situated in the heart of Charnwood Forest and surrounded by 60 acres of magnificent gardens and paddocks, with a quarter mile private drive a lavishly appointed and immaculately presented six bedroom detached country house with outstanding open views on all sides. Featuring a superb 12.54m x 6.57m living/dining kitchen by Philip Dowse with oak framed garden room, a separate one bedroom self-contained annexe, cinema and extensive range of garaging, the property also offers a hard tennis court with pavilion. Design features include a superb master bedroom suite of four rooms, a professional second floor cinema room, the main house offering five/six receptions, all decorated and finished to the very highest quality. In all, a stunning country home with a significant land holding situated within this most desirable location. EPC - D.

£3,500,000

Benscliffe House Ulverscroft Enjoying a spectacular Sylvan setting amongst magnificent Rhododendrons within 14.6 acres of paddocks and woods, an exceptionally attractive period detached residence built to a Tudor style situated within the heart of Charnwood Forest. Offering four principle reception rooms, six bedrooms, ensuite shower room and two bathrooms, the property features a wealth of magnificent features including an oak panelled dining room, elegant drawing room and spacious sitting room. Featuring extensive formal gardens with numerous specimen trees and shrubs, Rhododendrons and outdoor heated swimming pool, the property offers an excellent range of stone buildings incorporating a large double garage with Groom’s flat over and stable block (with potential for a dwelling, subject to planning), boiler room, log store and tractor shed. In all, arguably one of Charnwood Forest’s finest properties still with considerable potential at the end of a tree lined approach. EPC - Pending

£1,850,000

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Linford House Newtown Linford A rare opportunity to acquire a lavishly remodelled period detached family home opposite the cricket pitch and Bradgate Park. Offering a superb fully equipped leisure complex and stylish separate 2 bedroom det annexe, the property features a bespoke open plan kitchen, superb 11.5m drawing room, further play room/family room with galleried sitting room/ study, separate dining room and conservatory. The property offers four double bedrooms, two with en suites, a luxury family bathroom and Nuvo integrated sound system, mood lighting and the highest quality fixtures and fittings. The leisure complex also offers a fully fitted kitchen, lounge area, changing rooms, plant room and cloakroom. In all, a substantial and beautifully presented property in private landscaped grounds.EPC C

ÂŁ1,400,000

The Old Hall Rearsby An outstanding Grade 2* listed eight/nine bedroom detached period property of immense character. Situated within approximately three quarters of an acre of landscaped gardens in this unspoilt Wreake Valley village, the property has been completely restored and was awarded a Charnwood Borough Council Conservation Award for Restoration in 2000. Dating back to 1660, the property offers five reception rooms, three luxury bathrooms and two en-suite shower rooms. Magnificent original features include an oak staircase, oak panelled dining room, heavily beamed ceilings, open fronted fireplaces and vaulted cellars. In all a fine property of impressive proportions in a delightful setting. EPC - F

ÂŁ1,200,000

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Brook Cottage Ulverscroft

£1,100,000

A stunning four bedroom detached family home situated in one of the area’s most sought after residential locations. The property has been extensively remodelled by the present owners to offer spacious and versatile accommodation to include entrance porch, entrance hall with limestone flooring, study with feature wood burner and range of oak book cases and desk, family room with ceiling mounted projector and electric drop down screen, stunning living room with oak flooring and wood burner, ground floor cloakroom/WC, kitchen/breakfast room with Aga and utility room. The first floor offers accommodation of a spacious landing, four double bedrooms, two with en suite shower facilities and family bathroom. There is a double open fronted detached garage and grounds of approximately 3 acres comprising of two separate paddocks and established lawned gardens. EPC - E

Manor Farm House Sutton Bonington

£719,500

Occupying a spectacular rural location in the former parkland grounds of St Anne’s Manor, a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial five double bedroom detached family home situated within approximately 3 acres of gardens, copse and paddock. Offering oil fired central heating, sealed unit double glazing the property has three reception rooms, conservatory, two en suite shower rooms and family bathroom with potential for further extension/remodelling (subject to planning). With outstanding open views to three sides, the property also has a triple garage, attractive gardens and paddock extending to 1.8 acres with Harlow stable, tack room and garage and an attractive copse at the rear. In all, a substantial family home with an excellent landholding in a stunning rural location just outside this popular and well serviced village. EPC - D

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Meeting Street Quorn

£725,000

A substantial completely remodelled and restored Grade II Listed detached period property within walking distance of Quorn village centre and situated within the conservation area. Offering a total of five bedrooms, four bathrooms (three en-suite) and a downstairs cloakroom. There is a newly built detached double garage with double bedroom and en-suite shower room above together with a private landscaped rear garden. A wealth of original features the interior has been fitted to the very highest of modern specifications including a bespoke shaker style kitchen with extensive built-in appliances. Fitted with the latest in Argon filled double glazed handmade windows and central heating systems. All the charm and character of a listed property with the technical specification of a new home. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the quality of the interior. EPC - Exempt

Aylmer House Elmesthorpe

£665,000

This property has been remodelled and extended by the present vendors to provide a large family home with versatile, flexible accommodation and presented to the highest of standards. The accommodation comprises an entrance hall, stunning extended breakfast kitchen with integrated appliances, larder, cloaks/WC, formal sitting room, dining room and a long garden room. There is a second living room, a study, family room and also a second contemporary breakfast kitchen and second ground floor WC. The first floor is divided into two sections, the main landing serves three double bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes, the master having an en-suite bathroom, the second bedroom has a large walk-in loft space, two further double bedrooms and further bathroom. Outside there are established and well maintained gardens approaching three quarters of an acre and two garages. EPC - C

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Charnwood House Melton Mowbray

£595,000

Charnwood House is believed to date back to 1876 and is understood to be a former hunting lodge - this is an architectural pleasing and grand detached residence located on the outskirts of the town centre. The property has been thoughtfully restored and updated over the years including rewiring, an updated heating system and the addition of the solar electricity and water heating panels. The property benefits from many features including high ceilings with original cornicing, some original floorings including a Minton tiled floor in the hallways, a number of original fireplaces and sash windows with secondary glazing throughout. Complementing the ground floor accommodation is the orangery and outside is a one bedroom self-contained annex. The property benefits from established gardens to the front, sides and rear and viewing is essential to appreciate. EPC - E

The Coach House Quorn

£495,000

Situated within the centre of Quorn yet opposite the stunning woodlands of Quorn House, an extremely deceptive extended and remodelled four bedroom character cottage designed for entertaining. A spectacular open plan living/dining kitchen and offering four double bedrooms, en suite shower room to a ground floor bedroom suite, family bathroom, off road parking and delightful landscaped gardens. Demanding an internal inspection, the property is immaculately presented and offers numerous design features including a veranda to the rear, bespoke bedroom furniture, luxury fitted kitchen and a wealth of original features. Ideal for professional couples, retirement buyers or families with older children, the property also offers a ground floor fourth bedroom suite ideal for a dependant relative, guest use or a third reception room. EPC - E

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Halstead Lodge Rothley

£550,000

Located on the favoured Swithland Lane in Rothley and occupying a corner plot is this substantial detached family home which has been extended to provide five bedrooms, including a master suite with Juliette balcony, dressing area and en-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath. On the ground floor there is a commanding reception hallway, three further reception rooms and breakfast kitchen. The property has a downstairs shower room and utility. Complementing the accommodation is a double garage and established gardens to the front, side and rear. The property has been well maintained and is in an ideal position for access to the surrounding countryside, Swithland woods and Bradgate Park. Early internal viewing is strongly recommended. EPC - D

Manor Farm House Scraptoft

£425,000

Situated within the Scraptoft’s conservation area on a corner plot with attractive open views, an extremely attractive four/five bedroom detached period property offering four reception rooms, four/five double bedrooms, two shower rooms and a five piece family bathroom. Featuring a 26’9” overall x 19’8” oak fitted living/dining kitchen, the property features a wealth of original features including heavily beamed ceilings, sash windows, barrel vaulted cellar, gas fired central heating and part replacement sealed unit double glazing. In addition the property has delightful private mature gardens to front and rear and driveway providing ample hardstanding. EPC - F

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& Our award winning showrooms right on your doorstep.

Cotes Mill has been transformed. Floors of Stone and deVOL Kitchens have taken a thousand year old, derelict mill and given it a new lease of life. Our inspirational showrooms are now full of unique furniture, flooring, antiques and gifts and we want you to come and enjoy this haven of beautiful things. Set in 12 acres of stunning countryside in Cotes, Leicestershire, there is plenty to see amongst the grounds, including Floors of Stone’s new landscaping displays and resident wildlife, including chickens, swans and peacocks. Floors of Stone now boast a light, open, galleried flooring showroom laid with our beautiful Light Jerusalem Tumbled Limestone and featuring over 100 products. We now sell Villeroy & Boch porcelain tiles, Italian wood effect porcelain

tiles, Tuscan wood flooring as well as our renowned range of natural stone, including limestone, marble, travertine and slate. With a limestone spiral staircase like no other in the UK and four floors of tile and kitchen displays to explore, you can get lost in this maze of loveliness. Around every corner discover a new vintage gem or beautifully crafted piece of furniture for your dream kitchen. We welcome you to pop in and talk to our friendly and knowledgeable staff who are on hand to help, inspire and advise. The Cotes Mill showrooms are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am – 5pm and Saturdays from 10am – 5pm.

Floors of Stone: 01509 234000 - www.floorsofstone.com - enquiries@floorsofstone.com deVOL Kitchens: 01509 261000 - www.devolkitchens.co.uk - enquiries@devolkitchens.co.uk Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Cotes, Loughborough, LE12 5TL

SERIOUS ABOUT

COOKING Where the Cooks Go When it comes to finding the right cooking appliances, everyone has their own personal preferences. Depending on the type of meals you prepare, how often you cook and how the appliance fits into the look and style of your kitchen, your cooker should be perfectly suited to your needs. Cookers of Distinction supply, deliver and install a wide range of leading cooking appliances, while offering a personal level of service tailored to you. Customers can expect an efficient, hasslefree service, as well as impartial advice that gives you all the information you need to be able to make the right decision about the type of cooking appliance best suited to you. An independent company with years of experience, some of the most prestigious brands they offer include Falmec, ABK InnoVent, Viking, Godin, ILVE, Barazza and Faber. They are always looking for new brands to add to their collection and provide customers with the widest selection possible.

With an accessible location in the heart of the country, Cookers of Distinction cater to clients nationwide. Many high profile individuals and businesses have trusted the team to supply and install their cooking appliances and their standards of service never fail to impress. As well as cookers, they also offer extractors, outdoor cooking products, glassware and kitchenware. The highly trained team can install your appliances while being as flexible as possible to fit around your working day. The stellar reputation that they have developed has allowed the business to expand rapidly. Next year, Cookers of Distinction will open a dedicated showroom in the Leicestershire village of Ibstock that includes a live kitchen and focuses on the overall customer experience. If you need a premium cooking appliance supplied, delivered and installed to the very highest standards, look no further than Cookers of Distinction.

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BBQS AND OUTDOOR COOKING APPLIANCES For outdoor cooking, the leading range of barbecues at Cookers of Distinction provide the perfect accompaniment to warm summer evenings. Building in or pairing with a portable outdoor cart or cabinet gives you plenty of installation options. Capture and create flavours including a unique smoky flavour using our premium models, which generate perfect heat distribution, whilst also protecting the burners from debris ensuring your appliance looks and performs as professionally as the discerning cook demands.

Simon Barrs

www.codltd.co.uk 01530 443648 07889 320678 simon@codltd.co.uk @info_codltd cookers of distinction

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Specialists in electrical installations, LED lighting, shopfitting, building maintenance, metal and acrylic fabrication, Ventola Projects Ltd provide their services to a range of businesses, offices, residential projects, outdoor installations and entertainment centres. Thriving on a reputation of high quality craftsmanship and deadline delivery, the expert team at Ventola Projects cater for clients both large and small. The high quality of the results, personalised service and minimal disruption to businesses ensure that clients are welcomed back again and again. Earlier in 2015, Ventola Projects were tasked with co-project managing a major development for Midlands brand agency Champions (UK) plc as they doubled the size of their offices, installing all electrical and lighting aspects of the new build and ensuring energy efficiency. Products installed included LED lighting, LED ceiling tiles, emergency lighting, exterior lighting, and suspended lighting from their CLS range giving a clean, economical and adequate lighting source. To further increase the energy efficiency, the existing building has adopted the same requirements of energy saving including the same lighting additions to that of the new build. Ventola ensured the substantial energy efficiency required by including PIR sensors throughout the new build and installing solar panels.

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Another major project recently undertaken was at the lighting and rewiring of Leicester’s leading jewellers, Lumbers for their new store, which has become the largest jewellery shop by sq m in the UK. The premier jewellers needed the best lighting solution to showcase their prestigious range of timepieces and jewellery to their customers.

Another Leicestershire business that Ventola Projects have worked with is Millington Travel. For over five years, they have taken charge of their installations in Syston, Lutterworth, Loughborough and three Leicester City Centre stores. Ventola project managed the most recent refurbishment in Kettering and Nuneaton along with the electrical and LED lighting upgrades.

Ventola were approached by Lumbers, having already carried out the work at their Market Street store. After consulting, advising and establishing the design, they set about ripping out the existing electrics and rewiring the building. Each of the three floors required new LED lighting, ranging from the generic to the high-spec.

Ventola Projects specialise in many other electrical works, one example of this is for Namco UK who are one of the UK’s largest entertainment operators.

Ventola’s unique CLS-LED and VAvR Digital Tape systems are the two key components to the lighting in the new space. Using only the very best components including high quality optical lenses and reflectors, CLS aim to achieve maximum light output without compromise. Providing a stunning LED lighting solution, Digital Tape offers flexible, flowing and colour-changing effects. As the store took shape, Ventola were adaptable to make sure they handled all changes to the plan to complete the work on time. They were tasked with ensuring the display cabinet lighting met the required standards for a range of high profile brands including OMEGA, Mont Blanc, Breitling, Chopard, Aspinal and Hublot.

Namco UK venues cover much of the UK such as the Trafford Centre Manchester, Metro Centre - Gateshead and London County Hall Buildings - Central London. The range of work carried for Namco UK not only consists of replacement General LED Lighting solutions and specialist lighting bands CLSLED from Holland and UK made VAvR LED but also the Fixed Wire Testing, PAT Testing, general electrical repairs, refurbishment and electrical upgrades. To further confirm the reach and capabilities that Ventola Projects possess, they have recently gained further specialist projects using its VAvR LED Range in Abu Dhabi, UAE at Ferrari World and the Yas Mall Retail Outlet and are hoping to further expand into this region through the remainder of 2015 and into 2016.

Ventola Projects Ltd

Brookfield, 190A Cropston Road, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7BN Phone: 07770 227 37 or 0116 234 0760 E-mail: info@ventola.co.uk

www.ventola.co.uk 83

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

50 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Abel have gone from a small office in Leicester to one of the largest privately owned electronic security and intelligent automation companies in the United Kingdom

Celebrating its 50-year anniversary in 2015, Abel have gone from a small office in Leicester to one of the largest privately owned electronic security and intelligent automation companies in the United Kingdom. Protecting businesses and homes from the risks of crime, fire and floods for five decades, Abel’s reputation has been built on excellent customer service combined with reliable and costeffective products. Ensuring your home is secure has never been easier. Abel’s intruder systems have been designed to fit in around your home and the way you live, utilising cutting edge technology to keep you updated at any point with the security of your residence. Features such as one-touch operation, flood detection and even notification of alarm activation can now be controlled from the convenience of a smartphone, giving you the ability to stay secure whilst on the go. Combined with this, Abel’s systems also incorporate wireless technology, providing the option to retrofit a system in the future or avoid the issue of cabling in listed buildings or interiors. To complete the package, all intruder alarms can be matched to CCTV, security lighting, hold-up alarms and fire alarms to guarantee the highest level of protection possible. Abel’s service provision is not confined to the residential market either, with a comprehensive offering to commercial clientele. Catering for large corporate headquarters, places of education, government offices, healthcare properties and a vast array of business premises,

Abel’s status as a National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold Approved firm will keep your investment safe. Abel Alarm’s access control systems allow commercial premises to control the entry and movement of personnel in the building, providing one of the most comprehensive ways to safeguard property from crime. Measures including biometrics, video entry and proximity cards can be installed to limit access to sensitive areas, prohibit walk-in theft and counter staff dishonesty. The majority of Abel’s access control systems also have recording and programming facilities that allow you to investigate and monitor staff and personnel actions in real time. Monitoring your security systems has become more time-efficient than ever. Abel offer clients the ability to have their security equipment monitored by fully licenced and qualified CCTV controllers with the authority to take action on video footage they see, including calling the police and pre-specified keyholders. Abel’s solution to security monitoring is also a more cost effective solution compared to a manned, on-site presence. Some of Abel’s more innovative safety precautions take shape in the form of SmokeCloak and Security Fog systems. Working on the premise of ‘what they cannot see they cannot steal’, SmokeCloaks are initiated at the push of a button and shroud a room with damage free impenetrable smoke within 12 seconds of initial deployment. Working with leading suppliers, Abel has significant experience with this proven method of crime deterrent,

ensuring maximum theft limitation directly after a break-in. As a commercial premises owner, it is a legal requirement for an assessment of fire risk to be produced. Quite often, findings of an assessment will require the instalment of a fire alarm system, fire extinguishers and emergency lighting. If demands of the assessment are not fulfilled, the people responsible for not acting are liable to prosecution and any insurance policy may be invalid. Abel’s comprehensive stable of measures on offer will ensure your premises are fire safe and everything possible is in order to ensure that both your business’ legality and safety is as good as can be. Completing the spectrum of Abel’s service and product provision is their diverse range of Intelligent Automation products. Gone are the days of multiple remotes and analogue controls for your lights, heating and entertainment. Abel gives its customers the ability to control their homes with a sleek Creston touch screen, or alternatively an iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch or Android device. With Creston, you can control almost any element of your home and enjoy the ultimate technology lifestyle from the comfort of your chair. As industry leaders, Abel are experts in its field. The combination of five decades of experience, a comprehensive product offering and branch network of offices that mean your never far from their team, allow you to enjoy everything the modern day has to offer from the worlds of security, safety and home automation.

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Secured and Automated by Design The Abel Way of Living and Working. Abel Alarm Company Ltd, Detection House, 4 Vaughan Way, Leicester, LE1 4ST

Call Abel on 0116 265 4200 or email info@abelav.co.uk www.twitter.com/abelalarm

www.facebook.com/abel.alarm

www.linkedin.com-Abel 85

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LG 84UB980V 3D 4K Ultra HD webOS LED Television This LG TV webOS offers an entertainment universe in a 4K resolution, 4x better than full HD, and cinema 3D, which, when used with one of the provided pairs of 3D glasses, offers you your favourite content in breathtaking 3D.

Smeg FAB32LFN 50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Retro Style Fridge Freezer Gorgeously retro, this Smeg Fridge Freezer has a 50s vibe, not to mention a 342 litre total gross capacity and an energy rating A++, making it as friendly on the environment as it is on your energy bill.

Miele WKR770WPS Chrome Edition Washer This remarkable Miele Washer offers a highly effective steam care feature, which injects steam to freshen and smooth fabrics, the legendary Miele honeycomb drum, which promises a gentle yet effective wash, and the Miele brand itself, long associated with longevity.

Britannia Delphi Gloss Red RC11XGIDERED 110cm Electric Range Cooker This Britannia Range Cooker is the appliance for those who love cooking but hate cleaning, offering 5 induction hobs, which are supereasy to wipe, and 2 electric ovens, which have catalytic oven liners, oxidising away grease when it reaches 200Â°C.

King Richards Road, Leicester LE3 5QG

0116 2515 515

Open Seven Days A Week

FREE EVENING DELIVERY Order before 5.30pm for same day delivery from 6.00pm, Monday-Friday

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LG 55EC930V Curved 3D webOS OLED Television This LG TV offers superb immersion in your favourite content, thanks to its glamorous curved screen, and amazing clarity and colour through OLED technology. There’s also low input lag (33ms), for gaming, and limitless entertainment via the smart TV platform.

AEG S95900XTM0 American Refrigeration This stunning AEG American Refrigeration is guaranteed to be appreciated by those who enjoy their food, especially with a splash of perfectly chilled vino, due to its 319 litre fridge, 88 litre freezer, and 25 bottle capacity wine compartment.

Falcon SxS 628 Black American Refrigeration This Falcon American Refrigeration offers loads of room for your big shop, with spacious shelves, deep drawers and handy door racks. It also offers a quick cool mode, in the fridge, and a fast freeze, in the freezer, for storing quick-perishing products.

The importance of heritage, reputation and excellence can never be overstated. With almost 30 years of history, these are principles we pride ourselves on. We’re Marks Electrical, a premium, Leicester based retailer that’s leading the way in 2015. We provide outstanding customer service, knowledgeable staff and an aspirational range of luxurious home appliances. For the latest high-end brands, from regal range cookers to über stylish American fridges, simply order from our award-winning website, give us a call, or visit our store in Leicester. Marks Electrical, THE world class choice.

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Chris Wills, Celine and Christophe Crépaux

A leading Midlands based wine company, Champagne Occasions possess exclusive rights to sell Borel-Lucas Champagne in the UK. A business relationship founded on a holiday to the Champagne region of France, Chris Wills and his family fell in love with boutique producer Borel-Lucas, who they visited during a vineyard tour. Immediately tasting the difference between boutique Champagne and the general offering on UK supermarket shelves, an idea sparked into Chris’ head. Returning to England with a car boot full of Borel-Lucas’ finest Champagne, Chris and Champagne Occasions were now the sole supplier, and therefore exclusive sellers of Borel-Lucas in the UK. The choice to become the only importers of Borel-Lucas in the UK was simple for Chris, his wife and father. A fourth generation family business themselves, Borel-Lucas have passed their passion, precision and expertise from father to son, a process that has enabled the house to become highly regarded within its industry. Stocking seven products in their range spanning from the Cuvée Reserve to a Grand Cru offering, namely their Cuvee Soleil d’Or, featuring 100% Chardonnay grapes from the vineyards of Cramant Grand Cru. The Borel-Lucas Champagne house have also recently become the official suppliers to Prince Albert II of Monaco’s sovereign force, the Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince. The Carabiniers protect Monaco’s Sovereign and the Prince’s Palace. Borel-Lucas were honoured to supply a special edition of their Brut Reserve specifically for the force, limited to only 7000 bottles. Champagne Occasions have enjoyed buoyant growth ever since their establishment and the decision to begin solely importing Borel-Lucas to the UK in 2012 has never been regretted. 2015 has seen the firm gain further momentum, becoming ever more involved in the corporate event market as well as branching out into private tastings. Staunch believers in finding the right Champagne to suit each client, get in contact with Champagne Occasions today and discover the delicious subtle flavours that the Borel-Lucas Champagne house has to offer.

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To find out more or to order these Champagnes please Contact:

Chris Wills on

07702 258306 or visit

www.champagneoccasions.eu

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FINE DINING GUIDE

ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE Everyone loves a good meal don’t they? Here at Aspirational Magazine we certainly do, so we were thrilled to be given the opportunity to pick the brains of MasterChef host, Gregg Wallace, to find out what’s warming his taste buds this winter in the East Midlands Based on Gregg’s expert knowledge of our region’s top restaurants, we have prepared this crucial fine dining guide to aid you in seeking out the best cuisine to get you through the cold winter months ahead. Our culinary tour begins at Gino’s Pear Tree, a stylish Italian restaurant, where their pizza reputation precedes them. Our next stop was the chic Hotel Maiyango, where after sampling some of their winter dishes in their calming atmosphere, we were sold! Another great stop is Alea Casino where Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse Bar & Grill can be found, with its extensive range of meals served in trendy surroundings. Whilst in the Nottingham area make sure to pop into Chino Latino, which is still a foodie favourite! Find these, and plenty more in the following pages, and become utterly spoilt by these East Midlands’ seasonal delights.

Taken from Gr egg’s book Ve

g, The G

reengrocer’s Cookbook ava ilable no w. Lamb and ve 60g (2 and

LAMB STE W

g are a greeng

Serves 4-6

a quarter oz

rocer ’s dream

Method

combination!

1. Preheat

the oven to butter) 170 degrees degrees F/g C/325 1 tbsp vege as mark 3. table oil 2. Melt the 1.5kg (3lb 5o bu tte z) boned r and oil in shoulder of lar ge ove nproof pot lamb, cube over a mediu d m heat. Add the cu bes of lamb 2 onions, fin – don’t crowd ely sliced the pot, do this in batch es. Once the 2 tbsp plain are bro y wn all over, flour remove fro pot and keep m the 450g (1lb) po to one side tatoe whilst you the rest. Re roughly chop s fry move all the ped lamb from pot. the 225g (8oz) tomatoes, 3. Add the onions to the skinned an d chopped po t and cook until they are slightly bro 1 x bouque wn. Stir in the flour t garni and cook, sti rring, for a salt & black couple of mi pepper nutes. 1 litre (1 & three quarter 4. Return the pints) meat to the lamb, chick pot and ad en or vegetab potatoes, tom d the le ato

stock 225g (8oz) small turnip s, peeled and quartered 350g (12oz ) baby carro ts, sliced z) very small new potatoe s

675g (1lb 8o

450g (1lb) pe

as, podded

es, bouque t garni, salt and pepper to taste, an d stock. Bri to the boil, ng cover, and pla ce in the oven for 1 hour.

5. Remove

the pot from the oven. Uncover, an d mash the potatoes as much as yo u can. Add the turnips carrots, cov and er, and return to the oven for another hour. 6. Towards the end of the cooking bring a large time, pan of salted water to the boil. Add the new potatoe s and parbo for 5 minutes il . Drain. 7. When the lamb has be en cooking 2 hours, ad for d the cooke d new potat and the pe oes as to the lam b and return to the oven for a furthe r 20 minutes Checking the . seasoning be fore servin g.

For more information on Gregg Wallace or to enquire about him appearing at your event, simply contact Victoria Marconetto at Champions (UK) plc on 07791 508 235 or email vmarconetto@championsukplc.com. Alternatively, please contact Jack Hayes by calling 07772 440 596 or 08453 31 30 31 or email jackhayes@championsukplc.com. 90

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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. Open for lunch on Saturday’s, 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 Wednesday, 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: Monday to Friday: 5.00pm - late Saturday: Lunch and Dinner Sunday: Lunch 12noon - 4.00pm Set Menu: Monday to Thursday: 5.00pm - 6.45pm Gino’s Pear Tree 8 Church Hill, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire LE12 8RT Tel: (01509) 890 243 www.ginospeartree.net

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FINE DINING GUIDE

ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

HAMBLETON HALL

THE LIGHTHOUSE

HOTEL MAIYANGO

Hambleton, Rutland

Kibworth, Leicestershire

City Centre, Leicester

Celebrate the occasion...

The Lighthouse at Kibworth Beauchamp is really quite unique; billed as a Seafood Restaurant & More, owners Sarah and Lino have created a thoroughly modern menu, beginning with an exciting selection of tapas-style nibbles, which you are encouraged to enjoy in the truly Tapas way, sharing and enjoying the fabulous variety of flavours, ideally with a glass of something lovely from their Around The World wine list.

Offering a truly unique dining experience, Hotel Maiyango pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers.

Birthdays, anniversaries and memorable dates are all worth celebrating in style. Stay a night in one of our Superior or Master bedrooms or our Croquet Pavilion suite with stunning views over Rutland Water. This special occasion offer includes:

• Champagne • Seasonal fruit • Rich chocolate brownies from Hambleton Bakery • Bouquet of flowers • Six course gourmet tasting menu • Personalised dinner menu • Full Hambleton breakfast and morning paper. For prices, terms & conditions, please view our website: www.hambletonhall.com

Turn the page and there is an array of seafood on offer embracing the retro to the modern, the classic European to exotic Eastern flavours; the emphasis on all of these being the freshest ingredients beautifully prepared, alongside a smaller selection of meat and vegetarian dishes. It is possible to pop in and enjoy an affordable mid week treat, either with the supper menu, offering 2 courses for £14.75, or simply have Nibbles and Tipples, a selection of the scrummy nibbles with a glass of your favourite Tipple. All this starts bright and early at 6.00 pm and is entirely perfect for a cheeky supper on the way home from work. On Thursdays, in addition to everything else, The Lighthouse offers a little taste of Spain, Paella, Tapas, and Crema Catalana all washed down with jugs of fabulous Sangria. Sarah and Lino, despite their Italian origins love to embrace all good foodie things, and also celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau in November with a thoroughly retro French menu.

Seasonal menus are carefully crafted to perfectly complement the season, catering for various dietary requirements and allergies including gluten free and vegan. As well as the main restaurant itself, The Glass Bar and The Gallery are available for private hire, allowing guests to hold their own exclusive event, complete with a bespoke menu, while revelling in panoramic views across Leicester’s stunning new Jubilee Square. The newest addition to Maiyango is the Tasting Room, which is a homely and inviting area made for no more than twenty people, which serves to create a bespoke, exclusive environment for cocktail making, wine tasting and a whole host of other events. There is no better way to follow up a stimulating tasting session in the Tasting Room than with a hearty, luxurious meal at the Maiyango restaurant which has been awarded an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence, whilst also being recognised by The Good Food Guide. And thanks to the release of their all-new autumn menu, guests now have an even wider range of delicacies to enjoy.

For that special occasion, or just because you fancy pushing the boat out, The Captain’s Table is offered throughout the week, serving a “long thin” menu of tasty morsels “The Pick of The Day”.. you set the guidelines with likes and dislikes and the chef does the rest. It really is the best way to eat! 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 serve. It is little wonder that The Lighthouse received the coveted accolade of Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide, and features alongside its sister restaurant, Boboli, in The Good Food Guide. The Lighthouse has proven its credentials as a pre-eminent culinary destination in Leicestershire, delivering consistently good food at affordable prices. The Lighthouse is a finalist in the Midlands Seafood Restaurant of the year Awards. Indulge yourself in The Lighthouse experience.

Food Served:

Tuesday to Saturday from 6.00pm

Breakfast, Brunch & All Day Dining served Monday to Friday 7:00am onwards, Saturday & Sunday 8am onwards. Dinner Served Monday to Saturday 6:30pm - 9:30pm and Sunday 6:00pm 9:00pm Open for cocktails and drinks till late, 7 days a week.

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

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

Food Served:

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

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MARCO PIERRE WHITE STEAKHOUSE BAR & GRILL

IBERICO WORLD TAPAS Nottingham

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.

WORLD SERVICE RESTAURANT Nottingham

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.

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.

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.

Focusing 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 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.

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.

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 2015 Michelin guide.

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.

After opening their second restaurant in Derby in November 2013, Iberico are delighted to announce that this too has been included as a Bib Gourmand entry for the 2015 Michelin Guide. Located at: 9-11 BOLD LANE, DERBY DE1 3NT. Tel: (01332) 345 456

Food Served:

Mon to Thu: 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

Food Served: Monday to Friday: 12noon - 2.00pm & 5.30pm - 10.00pm Saturday: 12noon - 2.00pm & 6.00pm - 10.00pm

Monday to Friday: 12noon - 2.00pm & 7.00pm - 10.00pm Saturday: 12noon - 2.00pm & 6.30pm - 10.00pm Sunday: 12noon - 3.30pm CLOSED Sunday night except for bank holidays and throughout December

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

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

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

Food served:

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FINE DINING GUIDE

ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

THE RIVERBANK

OAKS

THE WALTON HOTEL

West Bridgford, Nottingham

Nottingham

The Park Estate, Nottingham

The Riverbank Bar & Kitchen, situated on historic Trent Bridge with stunning riverside views offers an exceptional drinking and dining experience in a comfortable, modern environment. Providing a delicious, contemporary menu in the restaurant or pizza and sharing planks in the bar, whether you’re looking for a meal with friends or family, a light lunch or some casual drinks, you’ll find everything you need at The Riverbank.

OAKS restaurant and bar located on Bromley Place in central Nottingham brings a unique and innovative form of cooking to the city. Focusing on locally sourced, hand-made sausages and meats, these are cooked slowly over burning wood embers on a custom-built iron grill, bringing out an intense, smoky and tantalising flavour.

Originally built as a hunting lodge in the early 1800’s, The Walton has remarkably retained many of its original features, making it the perfect place to run away from the cold winter days, have a glass of wine and a meal in front of a cosy open fire. The restaurant welcomes residents and non-residents of the hotel, seven days a week.

The OAKS menu showcases a signature range of flavoursome handmade sausages created to the chef’s own recipes. Taste sensations range from chicken, asparagus, ricotta, sage and lemon zest to wild boar, purple broccoli and smoked mozzarella served with mashed potato. A stand out feature of the menu is the Freedom & Respect Chicken, which has been marinated for 48 hours to bring out the essence of flavours of honeydew beer and black pepper. Speciality burgers range from beef and bone marrow to soft-shell crab with wasabi. Prices range from £6.50 for a foot-long sausage, to £14 for king prawns on the skewer. Sharing platters are also available for groups of two people or more, including sausages, steaks and sides. Side dishes include truffle mash, hand-cut chips and corn on the cob followed by Bluebell Farm ice cream and sweet doughnuts.

Their talented chef is exceptional at creating a menu to suit everyone, regularly sourcing the best seasonal, local and international produce. Their current winter menu has a selection of tender meat and fish dishes including blade of Derbyshire beef, breast of duck, seared hand dived scallops and fillet of wild seabass. Starters range from £4.95- £9.95 with main courses from £8.95 - £18.95, with a separate Sunday lunch menu available.

With a revamped menu now offering a variety of contemporary dining options from Thai curry and Linguine to a great grill menu of Steaks, Burgers & Ribs the selection of dishes on offer has never been better. Also offering a delectable range of dishes on our early bird menu running Monday-Saturday lunchtimes and evenings from 5.30 - 6.45pm there’s never been a better time to come down and experience great food at great prices. All dishes are prepared from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared by a team of dedicated, passionate chefs and delivered with trademark Riverbank service and style. The bar provides delicious stone baked pizza and sharing planks with fresh ingredients along with a great choice of beverages from European beers to an extensive cocktail menu. Great deals on food and drinks can also be found in the bar with half price pizza all day on Monday and Tuesday, 2-4-1 cocktails on Thursday and Fridays. Live music every Friday night and our ‘pop up party’s little sister’ Shimmer every Saturday. The Riverbank also offers a contemporary Gallery Function room available for private hire. Offering a comfortable, modern space perfect for Weddings, Christmas parties, conferences, dinner dances, product launches and social events. Fully managed by a dedicated team of events experts, your event will be one to remember. The Gallery has everything from an exclusive kitchen and bar, exquisite views over the river and on site car parking.

OAKS proudly showcases local suppliers with a diverse range of craft ales delivered by nearby Castle Rock brewery and 12 local beers by the bottle. Wine is served by the carafe and the range of cocktails, including the Midlands Spritz, an infusion of Noilly Prat, elderflower, mint and Harvest Pale ale, have been created to reflect modern classics using the best ingredients.

They pride themselves on their exquisite wine and Champagne list, serving the prestigious Vilmart Champagne amongst fruity Pinots and velvety Pinot Noirs, the staff are highly knowledgeable on the wines to complement your meal of choice. In the summer, the Walton boasts an outdoor sun terrace, perfect for al-fresco dining or enjoying one of the regular weekend BBQs. The Walton promise that you will dine in style no matter what the occasion.

All of the logs used for cooking on the custom-built cast iron grill are supplied by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, which produces the wood as a natural by-product of sustainable coppicing.

Food served:

Monday to Saturday: 12noon - 2.30pm & 5.30pm - 9.30pm Sunday: 12noon - 8.00pm

Monday - Thursday 12noon - 11pm Friday & Saturday 12noon - 1am Sundays 12noon - 9pm

Monday to Saturday: 7am for breakfast (8am weekends) - 9.30pm Sunday Lunch: 12noon -9pm Bookings are recommended at the weekends and for Sunday lunch.

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

OAKS 2 Bromley Place, Nottingham NG1 6JG Tel: (0115) 947 7244 www.oaksnottingham.co.uk

The Walton Hotel 2 North Road, the Park Estate, Nottingham NG7 1AG Tel: (0115) 947 5215 - E: enquiries@thewaltonhotel.com www.thewaltonhotel.com

Food served:

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HART’S

Nº/6 BAR & LOUNGE

CHINO LATINO

City Centre, Nottingham

St James Hotel, City Centre, Nottingham

City Centre, Nottingham

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.

The Nº/6 Bar is Nottingham’s hidden gem and recently went through a complete refurbishment along with the launch of a brand new food and drinks menu.

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.

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. 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. 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.

Housed in the sumptuous boutique St James Hotel, just a stone’s throw away from the Nottingham Castle, the Nº/6 Bar serves the city’s best cocktails, whilst also offering real ales and mixes of the finest spirits. Every week the Nº/6 Bar sets the stage for up and coming local musical talent with the likes of Rachel Jessica, Richie Howell and Gaynor Smith all entertaining guests until the early hours. Adjacent to the bar is the Left Gallery which showcases works by emerging local talent. Southwell photographer Drew Shearwood is currently displaying his images from around the world in his first solo exhibition at the gallery, with musician Sir Elton John a huge admirer of his work. Guests at the Nº/6 bar are also invited to take part in a number of events including wine-tasting sessions and a cocktail masterclass. Nº/6 is Nottingham’s secret bar, but with a new outdoor seating area being installed on St James Street soon, it won’t be hidden for too long.

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. 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.

Food Served: 7am to 10.30pm Monday to Friday 7.30am to 10.30pm Saturday 7.30am to 9pm Sunday Snacks and sandwiches are served during the day alongside our a la carte menu. A la carte available : 12noon - 2.30pm and 6pm to 10pm Afternoon Tea is served in the restaurant from 12 noon to 4pm Hart’s Nottingham Standard Hill, Park Row, Nottingham NG1 6GN Tel: (0115) 988 1900 www.hartsnottingham.co.uk

Food served: Lunch: Monday to Saturday 12noon -10.00pm Dinner: Monday to Saturday 6.00pm -10.30pm Sunday: Closed Nº/6 Bar & Lounge St James Street, Nottingham NG1 6FJ Tel: (0115) 941 1114 www.number-six.co.uk

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

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FINE DINING GUIDE

Maiyango celebrates 10 years of fine dining with brilliant new tasting room concept

Perfectly nestled in the heart of Leicester, just two minutes’ walk from the historic cathedral and the Guildhall, Hotel Maiyango is a quirky and unique boutique hotel, restaurant and cocktail bar aiming to deliver a truly unforgettable experience for its esteemed guests.

With a reputation for sublime cuisine and industryleading luxury accommodation, the hotel takes centre stage in Jubilee Square, Leicester’s brand new £4 million development in the city centre. Completed in late 2014 in tribute to the Queen’s visit to Leicester during her Diamond Jubilee year, Jubilee Square creates synergy between the city’s modern centre and the historic points of interest, giving Hotel Maiyango the grandiose setting and backdrop it deserves. Now it is adding another string to its bow with the launch of a brand new room aimed at providing wonderful tasting experiences for its guests. The Tasting Room is a homely and inviting area made for no more than twenty people, which serves to create a bespoke, exclusive environment. In here, the group can indulge in a number of tasting experiences and also take part in entertaining and informative masterclasses.

Hotel Maiyango’s cocktail mixology class has been running for nearly a decade and it has forged a reputation as one of the finest in the city. Within the Tasting Room, each member of the group gets to prepare, make, and most importantly consume, three sumptuous cocktails – the choice of drink is down to each individual. Other events at the Tasting Room include wine tasting, spirit tasting and even port and cheese evenings, all designed with providing a delightful and classy experience for the guests. Perfect for work dos, girls’ days out, catch-ups and even hen nights, the Tasting Room promises to bring indulgence to the palates of all those who enter its doors. There is no better way to follow up a stimulating tasting session in the Tasting Room than with a hearty, luxurious meal at the Maiyango restaurant. 13-21 St Nicholas Place, Leicester LE1 4LD

www.maiyango.com

For enquiries and bookings call 0116 251 88 98 or email reservations@maiyango.com 96

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And thanks to the release of their all-new autumn menu, guests now have an even wider range of delicacies to enjoy. Hotel Maiyango’s restaurant has been given an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence, whilst also being recognised by The Good Food Guide. And as the ultimate testament to their gastronomical prowess, none other than Her Royal Highness dined at the restaurant during her visit to the city. Antipasti include seared swordfish, slow braised pork cheeks, and salt beef brisket, while the main meals, which feature steamed wild sea bass, five-spiced Gressingham duck, and thyme-scented Norfolk chicken, are all exquisitely concocted to stimulate diners’ taste buds. And of course, the best is saved until last, thanks to a selection of rich, luxurious desserts such as caramelised white chocolate mousse, orange and almond frangipane, raspberry parfait with dark chocolate, and spiced coconut rice pudding.

Complete your Hotel Maiyango experience with a stay in one of their 14 spacious and comfortable bedrooms, including one luxury suite. The entire hotel is thoughtfully designed with bespoke handmade furniture, beautiful commissioned artwork and intimate lighting throughout. Each room features free wi-fi access, luxury cowshed toiletries, Egyptian cotton bed linen, a 42-inch plasma television, a minibar, and plenty more. Hotel Maiyango, much like the city in which it is situated, is always growing and improving in every aspect – a full events calendar for the Tasting Room is coming soon, allowing visitors to make the most of their experience both at the hotel and within Leicester.

To hire out the newly launched Tasting Room for an exquisite cocktail mixology masterclass or tasting session, book a hotel room or enquire on tables at the restaurant, contact Hotel Maiyango by telephone on 0116 251 8898 or by email at reservations@maiyango.com To find out more about what the hotel can offer, visit www.maiyango.com

With the arrival of new Head Chef Salvatore Tassari – a veteran chef with notable experience in restaurants all around the world, including in Australia – to Maiyango’s ranks, guests can be sure of a culinary experience to tantalise their taste buds. 97

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NOW OPEN 5PM-5PM EVERY DAY. BOOTH PACKAGES AVAILABLE – CALL 0115 872 0600. CAVA • COCKTAILS • MAHOU BEER • LIGHT TAPAS Bar Esquina •

0115 872 0600

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Alea Nottingham, 108 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham NG1 6LF Over 18s Only | Challenge 21 Policy in Operation | Know When To Stop Before You Start, visit gambleaware.co.uk | drinkaware.co.uk. Alea Casinos is a part of Caesars Entertainment UK Limited

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MAGAZINE

Contact Antonia Doyle on info@antoniadoylephotography.com or call 07768 19 38 49 for memorable photography, whatever the occasion.

www.antoniadoylephotography.com

Antonia Doyle AW2015.indd 99

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

The future of Business in Nottingham

Future 40 Club – The Future of Business in Nottingham

The Future40 Club is Nottinghamshire’s newly launched, highly prestigious business lunch network established by leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc. Comprised of the county’s most influential businesspeople under the age of 40, it puts a new twist on a Great British institution, the business lunch. Members will convene on a quarterly basis at Hart’s Restaurant, Nottingham’s premier eatery, for a lavish lunch and to hear thought-provoking keynote addresses from some of the country’s most prominent business leaders and industry experts. The club was founded to bring together our most dynamic young business talent and to give them an environment in which to exchange ideas and forge new relationships. In doing so, the central aim is to strengthen the business community with the future very much in mind.

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Created by Champions (UK) plc The Future40 Club is the brainchild of Matthew Hayes, Managing Director of Champions (UK) plc and a multiple award winning entrepreneur. Dedicated to delivering the very best creative brand management solutions to its clients, the agency is focused on increasing the market share and profitability of the businesses with which it works. Having set up Champions from home in 2003 at the age of 23, Matthew has attracted scores of high profile clients by delivering clear, bottom-line results and has overseen exponential growth of the company – 889% since 2009 alone. In 2014 Matthew was himself singled out as one of the UK’s most outstanding entrepreneurs aged 35 or under in Growing Business’ Young Guns ‘Class of 2014’ list. In fact, he also scooped the prestigious haysmacintyre Top Gun award at the ceremony. It is safe to say Matthew embodies the Future40 Club spirit.

www.future40club.com/notts 29/10/2015 18:51

The Power of Networking

Bonita Norris

The future of business in Nottinghamshire, and further afield, lies in encouraging the key decision-makers to work together in the common interest.

One of the most original, up-and-coming motivational speakers has been chosen as the inaugural speaker – a young woman who is currently making waves at high profile business events – Bonita Norris.

Each club lunch will be both challenging and wide-ranging to encourage open discussion and new ways of thinking. That influence is based on the social capital we develop by building relationships with the people in our network. It takes time and, most of all, opportunity. The Future40 Club delivers on both counts. By stimulating the flow of ideas and by providing the cream of our business community the opportunity to build ever stronger relationships, the Future40 Club brings renewed energy and verve to the business lunch.

The Inaugural Lunch The host venue of the Future40 Club, Hart’s is a busy 80-seater restaurant which has for some eleven years claimed the title of Nottingham’s most successful up-market eatery. Hart’s provides a thoroughly professional blend of skilled service and modern British cooking in a stylish and comfortable interior.

A truly remarkable young lady, aged just 22, she reached the summit of Mt. Everest in 2010 and announced herself to the mountaineering community as the youngest ever British woman to stand on top of the world. She has guided charity treks to the summit of Kilimanjaro, skied to the geographic North Pole and led assaults on other Himalayan mountains. With an old head on her young shoulders and with a serious set of life experiences already under her belt, she has a fascinating repertoire and a real ability to convey ideas.

Nominate a Member This is a prime opportunity, reserved solely for the cream of the under 40 business crop. Members will meet like-minded people and bond with highly capable leaders who, like them, want to drive Nottinghamshire forward into the future.

The Inaugural lunch will take place at Hart’s on Tuesday 17th November 2015. Each Future40 lunch will feature a leading motivational speaker adding an extra dimension of inspiration and bring powerful new ideas to the fore.

The Future40 club is national in its scale and ambition. Membership will connect members not only to the local elite but also to the leading lights in the UK business community by way of broader regional and national events as well as the Future40 website and forum.

Membership is available on an invitation-only basis or you can nominate a potential member through our website, www.future40club.com/notts. Nominations will be evaluated to ensure club membership remains highly select.

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THE CREAM OF THE LEGAL SECTOR:

FROM THE LEFT: MANPREET SAHOTA, GAYLE ROWLEY, GLYNIS WRIGHT & SUSHMA KOTECHA OF GLYNIS WRIGHT & CO AT THE LEICESTERSHIRE LAW SOCIETY LEGAL AWARDS

It has been only 4 years since the boutique law firm Glynis Wright & Co first opened their doors as a new legal practice specialising in family law matters at 5 Bowling Green Street, Leicester. In that time they have become one of the fastest growing law firms in the East Midlands, going from two staff to ten having just recruited a fourth talented lawyer.

GLYNIS WRIGHT, THE FOUNDER OF THE COMPANY SAYS

“2015 has been the best year yet for the company and I am so proud of our achievements. Recently, we were recognised by the Leicestershire Law Society as the cream of the local legal sector when we were made joint winners of “Law Firm of the Year 2015” at the Leicestershire Law

Society annual awards ball at Athena. Only two weeks prior to that, I was awarded the accolade of ‘Highly Commended Lawyer of the Year 2015’ in a national competition and the firm has now won its third award at the Niche Business Awards coming first place for the Best Professional Services award.” From the outset, I decided that my practice would specialise in only family law and mediation cases and that the lawyers recruited into the practice would be top of their game. We have four specialist family lawyers in our practice with over 50 years of family law experience between us. I think this is why so many people going through divorce or separation or other family law issues have

THE LEICESTERSHIRE LAW SOCIETY TROPHY

AN AWARD WINNING YEAR FOR FAMILY SOLICITORS & MEDIATORS

GLYNIS WRIGHT & CO RECEIVING THEIR AWARD AS JOINT WINNER OF: “LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR 2015”

chosen our practice. They know that family law is all that we do and they like the fact that we offer family mediation services too. More information about Glynis Wright & Co can be found on the website at www.glyniswright.co.uk or Glynis and her team can be contacted on 0116 2385680.

Glynis Wright, head of new law firm celebrates victory as joint winner of ‘Law Firm of the Year 2015’. GLYNIS TOLD US: The judge said the nominations were really close and that comparing our new, boutique family law firm with the joint winners Weightmans was like comparing “a pebble to a boulder.” That is a great analogy for us since we all know the story of how David defeated Goliath with a pebble!

! K is s in g V ict o ry CALL US ON: 0116

It makes us very proud that the Leicestershire Law Society have recognised our achievements alongside the achievements of a giant law firm like Weightmans. It is only 4 years since we opened our doors and to have secured such an accolade in that time is fantastic.”

238 5680 OR VISIT: www.glyniswright.co.uk

THE CREAM OF THE LEGAL SECTOR:

FROM THE LEFT: MANPREET SAHOTA, GAYLE ROWLEY, GLYNIS WRIGHT & SUSHMA KOTECHA OF GLYNIS WRIGHT & CO AT THE LEICESTERSHIRE LAW SOCIETY LEGAL AWARDS

GLYNIS WRIGHT, THE FOUNDER OF THE COMPANY SAYS

THE LEICESTERSHIRE LAW SOCIETY TROPHY

AN AWARD WINNING YEAR FOR FAMILY SOLICITORS & MEDIATORS

GLYNIS WRIGHT & CO RECEIVING THEIR AWARD AS JOINT WINNER OF: “LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR 2015”

! K is s in g V ict o ry CALL US ON: 0116

238 5680 OR VISIT: www.glyniswright.co.uk

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

INHERITANCE TAX Why planning does not have to be a headache… When the subject of inheritance tax (IHT) comes up, most people would prefer not to leave a donation to an unknown, unnamed Chancellor of the Exchequer upon their death. Talking about the two certainties of death and taxes can make for an uncomfortable conversation, but this 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 IHT, where the nil-rate band has been frozen at the level of £325,000 since 2009/10 and is expected to remain so up to and including the 2020 tax year.

Even if the nil-rate band does eventually start to increase again in 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). Of course, as recently announced, there will be a new residence nil-rate band introduced gradually from April 2017 and, by April 2020, some families will be able to benefit from an additional £175,000 IHT-free allowance per individual, meaning that in total £1 million of assets could pass to the next generation without incurring an IHT charge.

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 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

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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

£900,000

Nil-rate band

(£325,000)

Estate subject to IHT

£575,000

IHT @ 40%

(£230,000)

Net estate

£670,000

immediately outside the estate for UK IHT purposes and this is referred to as the ‘discount’. The transfer into trust estate 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.

If this individual were to die after April 2020, and their assets included a family home which passes to a direct descendant, the picture will look somewhat better:

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 has been accumulated will heighten even further. Ensuring 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.

Estate on death

£900,000

What should I be asking myself?

Nil-rate band

(£325,000)

• Who do I want to benefit from my estate when I die?

Residence nil-rate band

(£175,000)

Estate subject to IHT

£400,000

IHT @ 40%

(£160,000)

• Am I prepared to lose access to some or all of my estate now in order to mitigate or eliminate the possibility of IHT when I die?

Net estate

£740,000

Amount to each beneficiary £223,333

Amount to each beneficiary £246,666 The best and most successful IHT planning exercise is, of course, to spend your last £1 just as you breathe your last, 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 from which the taxman benefits handsomely. 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.

• Which of my assets am I currently prepared or able to use in a gifting strategy? • What about my will - do I have one? Does it need reviewing? Have I made best use of trusts? • What is my required level of expenditure to ensure the minimum IHT is paid on my death? • Is there any other pertinent information to consider, such as whether I will be spending capital or potentially receiving WEALTH MANAGEMENT capital, for example from an inheritance& ofEMPLOYEE my own? BENEFITS

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 with your financial plans in every area of wealth building and protection.

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

To start planning for the future today, please contact:

Tel: 0116 240 8700 Email: info@mattioliwoods.com www.mattioliwoods.com Mattioli Woods plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 107

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

INAUGURAL LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL PROVES A MAJOR BOOST TO LEICESTERSHIRE

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October and November 2015 proved to be landmark months for Leicestershire’s business community. As anyone familiar within the county knows, the area is one of the most culturally diverse and business friendly environments in the UK. And thanks to the first ever Leicester Business Festival, the nation has finally opened its eyes to the economic potential of this great region. The LBF, a two-week showcase of Leicestershire’s prosperous and varied business industry, kicked off on Monday 26th October with an exclusive launch at the city’s postmodern Curve theatre, with proceedings getting straight into full swing with the Leicester Mercury Business Summit at the Phoenix Arts Centre later in the day. Some of the region’s most prominent figures from the world of business were in attendance, engaging in networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs. In addition, a number of expert keynote speakers drew on their many years of industry experience to give informative speeches onstage. Arguably one of the most renowned of these was Gareth Davis, Chairman of William Hill and Wolseley plc. Officially one of the most successful active CEOs in the world, he spent 35 years at Imperial Tobacco in several roles, including Director of Finance and Executive Director, and helped transform the company into one of the most efficient in the world. Being exposed to high quality speakers such as the aforementioned Mr Davis, record-breaking explorer Bonita Norris and Sunday Times Economic Editor David Smith ensured that those in attendance acquired a multitude of tried and tested business skills and tips.

The first day of the LBF also saw a number of other events take place alongside the Business Summit, including the Breakthrough Moments Festival Launch, TheBestOfLeicester Marketing Workshop & Wine Tasting Network Evening, and the Cross-Border Partnership Local Business Supply Chain Initiative, ensuring that there was something for everybody. Despite what appeared to be a high-intensity start to the Festival, it really was just the tip of the iceberg – Tuesday 27th October saw a gargantuan grand total of thirteen events take place, catering for a wide array of industries from food and drink to culture and creativity. Every field of business was thoroughly catered for over the eleven days of the Festival, as industry experts held events on topics including apprenticeships, social media, technology, energy, women in business, logistics, and even contemporary arts and comedy, and on Friday 6th November, the final day, delegates were treated to cocktails and canapes to finish the Festival off with a flourish. The LBF was brought to life by the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), a business-led partnership between the public and private sector looking to drive economic growth across the region, and leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc. A showcase of Leicestershire’s economic prospects has been long overdue as the region boasts 33,000 businesses and 435,000 employees which provide a net worth of £19.4bn a year. With a population of almost one million spread across Leicester, densely-populated towns such as Coalville and Loughborough, and a charismatic rural hinterland, excellent transport links make Leicestershire one of the best integrated areas in the country, a valuable benefit when it comes to economic development. In addition, the three world class universities based in the region produce tens of thousands of skilled graduates annually, delivering cutting-edge innovation in a wide array of industries, crucial to the development of not only the county, but the entire nation and potentially the world. Sponsored by the University of Leicester, the Festival attracted so much interest that the deadline for hosting events had to be extended, with many organisations having to be put on waiting lists, while some of the region’s most high profile companies, including Aon, Santander, AXA PPP, PMGC, Qdos and Mattioli Woods, threw their weight behind the Festival as official supporters. In addition, the LBF steering group chose Leicestershire’s leading branding and events agency, Champions (UK) plc, to co-ordinate and promote the Festival, while both the Leicester Mercury and Smooth Radio were quick to lend their support as Media Partners. The Festival has proven a huge success that has brought long-overdue focus for the Leicestershire business community, but with the dust settling on the occasion, it is time to look ahead to next year’s Festival and look to make the event bigger and better than ever.

For more information on how you or your company can get involved with the Leicester Business Festival 2016 call Ashleigh Kerr at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31 or email akerr@championsukplc.com

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

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“My life’s vision is huge; I want to make a difference to thousands of companies by helping them get to grips with their finances”

MAKE SURE YOUR GROWTH IS ALL FIGURED OUT Technology does an increasingly good job of providing businesses with raw financial data but, as founder and Managing Director of The F Word Ltd, Serena Humphrey explains, the key to unlocking sustainable growth lies in how we interpret that data. It is clear that the East Midlands economy is back on the up and many, many businesses are reporting both increased sales and growing turnover. Access to the finance that businesses often need to help them expand, while perhaps not as easy as in the pre-crash days, has loosened somewhat – but it is by no means a magic bullet for good quality growth. From my twenty years studying business expansion, and indeed contraction, I’d argue that having a proper handle on cashflow plays a significant role in ensuring the growth of your company doesn’t mask underlying and potentially dangerous problems. Recent figures from RBS and NatWest indicate that one in four small businesses say they’ve missed out on a growth opportunity because of cashflow and that the same proportion admit they’d turned down a highvolume order due to a lack of available capital. Yet when 41% of UK businesses have never run a cashflow forecast, despite over half expressing concern over cashflow issues, it suggests a worrying disconnect. It’s quite common for a company’s turnover to grow but for its profits to fall, and for cashflow to get tighter and tighter. Unless you’re right on top of the numbers this can go on unnoticed until one day you find you’re in danger of running out of money. If your company is growing quickly, it’s easy to occupy yourself with the task of winning new business and dealing with all the immediate issues growth throws at you. At the same time, though, it’s sometimes equally easy to lose sight of whether you’re actually heading in the right direction. One of the keys to achieving sustainable growth is ensuring you maintain your gross margin. Margin usually falls when turnover grows quickly but there aren’t many prizes for having the least profitable customers just so you can see turnover going up – remember that turnover truly is just vanity.

It’s the quality of that turnover that really counts! There’s a simple way to make sure you’re not a busy fool and that all your hard work doesn’t go to waste – just make sure you’ve got brilliant financial management information that tells you exactly what’s going on, every month.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW • You need to see your profit and loss each month; what were sales, gross margins, overheads and how much actual bottom line profit did you make? • Closely monitor and control your gross margins, make sure your sales team fully understand the impact of giving discounts or buying business. • How much profit does each of your customers make? • What profit are you forecasting to make this year – is it more than last year’s profit? • Are your overheads under control or are they growing more quickly than your profits? •

Make sure you have a rolling 13 week cashflow forecast so you can see pinch points coming in plenty of time. And most important of all, set aside time on a regular basis to look at your information, pause, and make sure you’re all on the right track.

The same study from RBS and NatWest, while highlighting poor cashflow management as a brake on company growth, also revealed a lack of confidence in available support networks. Around a quarter of small firms felt that there was nobody they could turn to for support and the vast majority, a remarkable 78%, felt that the government was not doing enough to assist small firms in accessing the right kind of help. That help is out there and for the last 14 years I’ve made it my mission, and even my obsession, to provide it. I want to help business owners understand their finances more easily, ensuring they have accurate, up to date financial information that tells them everything they need to know about their business. Understanding where your business is right now is important but what you really need to figure out is where it’s heading. You need that information delivered in a format you can easily understand and digest and you need it in a way that relates directly to your business, not in a dry and impenetrable format that’s not much help to anyone. If finance is your F Word and you recognise a gap in understanding within your business, I can help you shed light on the dynamics that will determine its future. On top of that, I’ll also show you the levers you can pull to achieve significantly different outcomes.

To get in touch with Serena Humphrey, call 0115 984 6344, email serena@fwordtraining.com or visit her website, www.fwordtraining.com. 111

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

PEN HADOW

DEREK REDMOND

Launched in October 2015, the Champions Motivational Speakers Agency is one of the largest directories of leading motivational speakers in the world. With personalities spanning almost every life experience, from leading FTSE100 companies to exploring the farthest reaches of the earth, the agency is ideally placed to supply industry leading speakers to any form of event. Formed from the success of Champions (UK) plc’s After Dinner Speaker division, the Champions Motivational Speaker Agency specialises in the finest motivational speakers. Booking a motivational speaker for an event brings an invaluable element to proceedings. Not only can the right personality stun audiences with their own personal achievements, the life lessons that can be taught from the anecdotal tales and advice they give can have a number of benefits, from boosting productivity in the workplace to lifting a sporting team’s morale. The launch of the Champions Motivational Speakers Agency’s new website; motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk, marks the culmination of a huge amount of work to provide one of the most extensive offerings of speakers to the current market. The website makes the process of booking a motivational speaker easy; simply browse through our directory and fill in an online booking form for any of the personalities who take your fancy. Once sent, our expert sales agents will get in contact to further discuss your speaking requirements, who may also fit your brief well and the type of speech you require, be it anything from a keynote conference speaker, to a motivational session for a school visit. The Champions Motivational Speakers Agency also has a number of speakers exclusively signed to them to boot.

Pen Hadow has led a life to the full, becoming a pre-eminent explorer and the first individual to trek solo, without third party resupply, from Canada to the Geographic North Pole. A feat likened to a solo ascent of Everest without oxygen supplies, Pen’s remarkable achievement rewrote history books and set a precedent for a truly outstanding career to date. A stalwart campaigner against climate change, Pen has led pioneering research to Arctic Ocean ice thickness, covering 430km in 73 days. Pen’s extraordinary tales from his unique career resonate profoundly with both corporate and social audiences. A range of anecdotes and crucial life lessons are incorporated in Pen’s speech, alongside the ability to tailor his content to a client’s brief, an enviable ability that ensures guests go away intrigued by what he has to say. Derek Redmond is one of the most recognisable and memorable Olympians of our time. In contention for the title of Barcelona 1992 400m Olympic Champion, Derek set off at a tremendous pace in his semi-final race. Sprinting down the back straight, Derek suffered a torn hamstring, an injury that brought him to an agonising halt. Such was Derek’s determination in the face of competition, he decided not to throw in the towel, and carried on with his race regardless, defeating metre by metre as fast as his body would allow.

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member of

EA SB

PETE COHEN

European Association of Speakers Bureaux

GARETH DAVIS

Hobbling down the finishing straight in a sea of emotion, Derek’s father joined him on track to help him across the finish line. Voted as the 3rd most stunning Olympic moment of all time by The Guardian, Derek overcame adversity and showed tremendous courage. As a motivational speaker, Derek’s achievements and performance orientated mindset are a perfect fit for audiences looking to increase productivity, instil a winning mentality or simply hear an inspirational story from a sporting great. Derek’s infectious enthusiasm is a joy to behold and the way he interacts with guests is a skill that very rarely can be taught. Pete Cohen is a leading motivational speaker and life coach. Having worked with sporting stars such as Ronnie ‘The Rocket’ O’Sullivan, Pete has created a mentality of success with numerous people, leading to exponential gains in their professional, sporting and social worlds. A captivating motivational speaker who challenges audiences to go against convention, step outside their comfort zone and take that extra step to achieve what they have always wanted, Pete’s techniques and processes have been voiced to huge corporations including IBM, Virgin, Coutts and EDF, to name but a few. A confident and engaging personality who is sure to make you think differently about the world, Pete is a personality and motivational speaker not to be missed.

Gareth Davis is one of the most influential voices in British business. Becoming Chief Executive of Imperial Tobacco in 1996, during his time at the helm, Gareth led the firm’s demerger from Hanson as well as subsequent dual listings on the London and New York Stock Exchanges. Imperial were listed immediately at 96 on the FTSE 100, a ranking Gareth would improve to 25 by the time of he left the corporation in 2010. Specialising in internationalism, corporate strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, Gareth’s talks as a corporate motivational speaker are hugely insightful and have applicability to almost any business, from small start ups to multinational corporations.

Contact the Champions Motivational Speakers Agency today and benefit from the decades of experience our team possess, the terrific celebrity reach we enjoy and the customer service that will make booking with us thoroughly beneficial. Call Jack Hayes on +44 1509 85 29 27 or 08453 31 30 31. Alternatively, email jackhayes@championsukplc.com

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

BLUE With a vast repertoire of acts on its books, Champions Music & Entertainment specialises in finding the perfect match for its clients’ events, offering an array of bands, solo artists, DJs, dance troupes, comedians and other entertainers to cater for any kind of occasion.

Champions Music & Entertainment is a division of Champions (UK) plc, which is one of the country’s leading brand agencies and has received widespread national recognition since its establishment in 2003. Champions Music & Entertainment was conceived out of the success of its parent company’s after dinner speaker department, Champions Speakers, which continues to be one of the leading booking agencies in the country, with more than 500 speakers booked each year. This success led to Champions (UK) plc being appointed exclusive entertainment, strategy and delivery partners of Grosvenor Casinos in 2015. The two entities are working together to create the UK’s best entertainment offering, with exclusive acts taking to the stage to dazzle audiences time and time again.

The partnership has already seen Champions (UK) plc become one of the most prominent booking agents for intermediate level music acts in the nation, and from this strong position, the company has taken the next logical step by establishing Champions Music & Entertainment. Champions (UK) plc have long enjoyed a history of success within the music industry – a number of national superstars are signed to the company, including boyband sensation Blue and two notable X Factor alumni: 2013 winner Sam Bailey and 2005 runner-up Andy Abraham. The decision to further establish Champions (UK) plc in the music and entertainment industry has also had the benefit of the Executive Vice President of the Agents’ Association of Great Britain, Alan Warner FEAA, joining their ranks on a three-year contract.

Champions (UK) plc acquired Alan’s business, Warner Music & Entertainments (UK), in June 2014, after talks between himself and Champions CEO John Hayes, both of whom have enjoyed a friendship spanning several decades. Alan’s decades of experience within the industry, combined with Warner Music & Entertainments (UK)’s reach, has contributed enormously to Champions (UK) plc’s resounding success within the field of music and entertainment. In April 2015, Champions Music & Entertainment took several huge strides in the music industry. Five years on from the ground-breaking signing of Andy Abraham, the brand agency went on to sign fellow X Factor superstar Sam Bailey, one of the show’s most successful winners with a Christmas No. 1, Skyscraper, and a BPI Gold-winning debut album, The Power of Love.

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member of

EA SB

European Association of Speakers Bureaux

ANDY ABRAHAM

SAM BAILEY Just two months later, another major coup was realised with the signing of Blue, one of the best-loved British boybands of all time. Boasting three No. 1 singles, a total of 11 Top Ten hits and three consecutive No. 1 albums, they have enjoyed unparalleled success in Great Britain, Europe and worldwide. In addition to an illustrious repertoire of acts and strong business foundations, Champions Music & Entertainment also has the online presence to match its reach within the industry. The new website plays host to an incredible database of over a thousand acts, ranging from local entertainers to superstar headliners from every possible genre and disposition. This not only provides end users with the most comprehensive choice of acts and performers for their event, but also emphasises how thorough and all-encompassing Champions (UK) plc are in their approach.

Matthew Hayes, Managing Director of Champions (UK) plc, is excited about the prospect of this new venture, but also understands the importance of being a face in the music industry clients can trust: “Our establishment in the music industry as Champions Music & Entertainment heralds a new era for the Champions (UK) plc. The music industry is a thriving and incredibly diverse industry that is an enjoyable challenge to work in. Our experience within the industry has paid dividends and has allowed us to provide a message to high profile acts and clients that we are an agency that you can count on to provide first class service. Champions Music & Entertainment complements Champions (UK) plc’s other departments perfectly and I’m confident in our staff’s ability to offer the music acts of the UK and further afield an alternative to conventional individual marketing and both online and offline act directories.”

Excellent customer service is at the very heart of Champions Music & Entertainment. They ensure all clients are provided with a professional, personal and friendly service to help them find the perfect act they are looking for, and work closely with every client, from first enquiry to delivery, ensuring that they provide the best experience possible.

To visit Champions Music & Entertainment’s new website, check out www.musicandbands.co.uk For more information on booking a music act or entertainer with Champions Music & Entertainment, simply contact Alan Warner FEAA today by calling 08453 31 30 31 or by email at awarner@championsukplc.com

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The only pitch side view at Welford Road

Situated in our new ÂŁ8 million West Stand, our newest premium club will be the only lounge at Welford Road with a direct view of the pitch and a unique terrace area. The Clubhouse will also be the first lounge at Welford Road with luxury padded armchair seats to enjoy the game from, accessible directly from the lounge.

To book your Clubhouse Membership call Roxanne on 0116 217 1287 LIMITED AVAILABILITY www.leicestertigers.com/theclubhouse

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE CAN GO A LONG WAY

“Now you can take some money from your pension pot to tide you over”

Pensions Freedom is good news, with more retirement opportunities than ever before. However, there is a range of complex considerations to take into account first.

Very few of the frequent changes that take place in the world of personal finance – many of them imposed by governments and regulators – make much of an impact outside the industry itself. But the changes in the pension rules, described under the heading ‘Pensions Freedom’ and implemented at the start of the current tax year, are an exception. For those aged 50 or over, the new rules have quite rightly been described as the most important changes to the pension regime for decades: they will, however, be equally significant for those in their 20s, 30s and 40s, too. The reason is simple: the changes are potentially too important to ignore and, unusually for legislative changes, the implications could be positive for a significant number of people. The changes affect what you can now do with the pension savings you’ve accumulated over the years. There are, of course, caveats. The new rules apply only to one type of pension, known as ‘defined contribution’ schemes, and not to final salary schemes common in the public sector and some companies. While it may be possible to convert a final salary scheme into one which qualifies for the Pensions Freedom benefits, these schemes can carry significant other benefits and it is essential to seek advice before taking such a major step. It’s also important to understand that, while the freedoms may generally be favourable, there are some potential tax drawbacks, along with some other restrictions, that must be taken into account before making any decisions. First, the good news: as far as the essence of Pensions Freedom is concerned, the clue is in the name. The key milestone is your 55th birthday – because from then onwards there will be complete freedom to take as much or as little of the money in your pension fund as you like, although your choice could have tax repercussions. Contact Janine Edwards for details or help on how and when it is best to access your pension. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

For more information contact:

Janine Edwards Principal Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management Tel: 01676 530606 Email: Janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.janineedwards.co.uk The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which 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 title `Partner’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

THE LEGAL 500 RECOGNISES STRENGTH OF SMITH PARTNERSHIP SERVICES

LEADING FIRM

RECOMMENDED LAWYER

LEADING INDIVIDUAL

TOP TIER

2015

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The Legal 500 analyses the capabilities of leading law firms and highlights which practice area specialists deliver the most cutting edge and innovative legal advice. The guide is put together by a team of researchers using feedback provided by thousands of clients as well as submissions from law firms and interviews with those lawyers. More than 4M users visit The Legal 500 website every year and each year it is updated to ensure only the law firms with the most impressive records of achievement and the most outstanding individuals in their field merit a ranking. For Smith Partnership to be ranked in so many categories and specialist subject areas in this guide underlines the strength of the “highly regarded” team of solicitors who operate to the highest possible professional standards. With offices across the East Midlands, including Derby, Leicester, Burton, Stoke and Swadlincote, Smith Partnership is one of the largest firms of solicitors in the region. In The Legal 500, Smith Partnership has been recommended as a top-tier firm in the practice areas of family, crime, fraud and licensing. Describing Smith Partnership as “excellent” in how it handles corruption, conspiracy to commit fraud and largescale VAT frauds, the guide singles out lawyer Kevin McGrath, who specialises in crime, fraud and licensing, as being “highly experienced, skilful and an effective communicator”. Smith Partnership has been recommended as a TOP-TIER FIRM in two practice areas:

• •

Crime, fraud and licensing - Crime: general Private client - Family

The other 12 practice areas in which Smith Partnership has been recommended are:

• • • • • • • • •

Corporate and commercial

• • •

Real estate: property litigation

Crime, fraud and licensing; Crime: fraud Dispute resolution: commercial litigation Dispute resolution: debt recovery Finance: insolvency and corporate recovery Human resources: employment Private client: contentious trusts and probate Real estate: commercial property Real estate: commercial property, elsewhere in the Midlands Technology, media and telecoms (TMT): Sport Transport: Aviation

Smith Partnership’s Muctar Johal, specialist in family work, has been recognised as a leading individual in The Legal 500 guide. Muctar was recommended for being an “excellent” advocate regularly instructed on non-accidental injuries, child sexual abuse and reviews of local authority decisions. Operating in the same field, Ruth Jones was called “experienced” and Peter Dadswell “tenacious but fair”. The other Smith Partnership lawyers who have been recommended by The Legal 500 are the “excellent” Fraser Cunningham, Andrew Oldroyd, Stephen Chittenden, Bally Atwal, Russell Davies, Jak Ward, Ruth Ball, Louise Haward, Simon Richardson, Jason Wood, Rashid Ali and James Johnson. Says Claire Twells, Business Development Partner: “Smith Partnership has worked hard over recent years to strengthen its capabilities in all the practice areas that we specialise in and The Legal 500 rankings reflect this. In particular, we are pleased to see the firm’s commercial work – in which 30 specialist commercial lawyers provide business advice to clients from small businesses to multi-national corporations – being recognised as among the best in the East Midlands”.

Celtic House

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

MAKING STEEL WORK SINCE 1925 Adey Steel have recently celebrated 90 years in business, a family owned company which started in 1925 and is a leading supplier within the Steel Industry. They have recently unveiled a complete corporate rebrand co-ordinated by Champions (UK) plc to successfully bring all four companies under the new Adey Steel Group name. This new structure gives their suppliers and customers definition between the broad range of specialist services that they offer. Adey Steel Group began in 1925 as the local ironmongers in Loughborough town centre by Harry Adey and his wife. The business has been kept in the family, seeing all four generations of the Adey sons managing the family business. Previously known as Adey Group, the steel company merged its four businesses under one overarching brand, Adey Steel Group. Each aspect of the group has its own products that are supplied to varying industries and consumers. Adey Steel Group is proud to be both a B2B and B2C firm, a trait that shows how diverse the Loughborough Based steelworks has become.

Adey Steel Group’s newly defined business areas are: ADEY STEEL – Previously Adey Steel Limited. Steel fabrication specialist serving the construction, infrastructure and engineering sectors.

The first Adey premises 90 years ago in Loughborough, Leicestershire.

ADEY STEELSHOP – Previously SteelShop Limited. Offering steel processing and stockholding services, particularly for the UK housebuilding industry. ADEY TECHNICAL – Previously Technical Edge Ltd. A structural design and steel detailing business offering services to the steel construction industries. ADEY TRANSPORT – Previously Transport24. Nationwide logistical and steel fabrication delivery arm of Adey Steel Group. Servicing both its intergroup companies as well as external customers, this sector is specifically designed to haul specialist steelwork. The new rebrand of the company saw the launch of a new industry leading company website, which showcases the offering of the company, as well as all new marketing materials, signage through-out the Adey Steel premises and

Overhead line electrification (OLE) Steelwork being constructed as part the Network Rail contract.

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new fleet livery. The unveiling of the new branding was celebrated at a launch party at Loughborough Town Hall on Friday 2nd October 2015 - a fitting venue as Adey Steel Group created the original steelwork for the clock tower in 1980. Continually growing the business over the last 90 years, the Adey family have successfully led the company to a prominent position in the industry. Adey Steel Group is renowned in the industry for their specialisms and they have worked on large and small scale projects alike with huge brands such as Network Rail, Battersea Power Station, John Lewis, University of Nottingham, Sellafield Ltd and NET to name but a few.

Steel work at the new Nottingham Train Station

For more information on the company and to see the brand new website, please visit: www.adeysteelgroup.co.uk

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Dr Abraze Khalique CHAMPIONING FIVE-STAR MEDICAL CARE

A Nottinghamshire GP for nearly three decades, Dr Abraze Khalique has been an integral part of the local community since he started practicing in the East Midlands. Offering his services both through the NHS and privately, his next venture will be with leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc, working closely with their numerous celebrity clients with his holistic approach to care. Dr Khalique’s close involvement with the Nottinghamshire community began when he took over the Bilborough Medical Centre in 1990 when it was based in a semi-detached council house. His tireless work has helped the centre undergo significant expansions over the years including the addition of a dental practice and a pharmacy. At the height of the recession, he took the decision to extend opening hours to Saturday and Sunday in order to help working families who were struggling to get appointments. “Care is something I am very passionate about,” he said. “I take it very personally and I feel very much part of the community. I have a very privileged job as a GP, with lots of potential to help people. I take it very seriously.” Dr Khalique’s efforts have been recognised with numerous accolades including the Heroes of the NHS Award at the Nottingham Post Heroes Awards 2014. He was also highly commended in the Patients’ Champion Category for Excellence in General Practice Awards 2013 which recognises the GP, who by virtue of his/her selflessness and dedication to patients is judged to best represent the values of personal care and professionalism traditionally associated with the family doctor. His local community is very close to his heart and he is proud to get involved in a number of community-led projects. On top of his work at two NHS surgeries, he also sees patients privately at Nottingham Woodthorpe Hospital. Taking both a holistic and humanistic approach to care, Dr Khalique prides himself on listening to

his patients and fully understanding their issues and concerns. The doctor-patient bond, often overlooked by many GPs, is extremely important to him as he aims to understand his patient’s viewpoints and assesses their needs. Just some of his areas of specialism include mental health, drug addiction, general medicine, elderly medicine, facial aesthetics and dermatology. Always looking for new challenges and opportunities, Dr Khalique’s next venture will be to work with some of the clients at leading Midlands brand and celebrity management agency, Champions (UK) plc. Offering a holistic range of medical services, both mental and physical, his knowledge and experience will be a major benefit to Champions’ clients. With a passion for sport that is shown by his current spell as club doctor at Nottingham Rugby Club, the partnership of Dr Khalique and Champions seems like a natural fit. The brand agency sole manage a number of ex-sporting stars including most-capped England footballer Peter Shilton OBE, Ashes-winning bowler Matthew Hoggard MBE, former Olympians Derek Redmond, Gail Emms MBE, Graham Bell and Audley Harrison MBE, former F1 driver Johnny Herbert and Rugby World Cup winner Neil Back MBE. As Champions (UK) plc expands and more clients come on board, the partnership with Dr Khalique will be invaluable in offering services which cannot be found elsewhere. There’s no doubt that he will bring his caring and personable approach to form strong doctor-patient bonds, just as he has done throughout his illustrious career.

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Care is something I am very passionate about. I take it very personally and I feel very much part of the community.

To book an appointment with Dr. Abraze please contact Louisa Hayes at Champions (UK) plc today by calling 07887 414 536 or 08453 31 30 31 Alternatively, email lhayes2@championsukplc.com

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Rainbows cares for more and more children with specialist ventilation needs

In his short life, two-year-old Jonah Ward has endured 16 operations, suffered a cardiac arrest and will need a heart transplant in the future. But his parents say you couldn’t meet a more smiley, cheeky and loving boy than Jonah. Before he was born, Jonah, of Rushey Mead in Leicester, was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome - a congenital heart defect in which the left ventricle of the heart is severely underdeveloped. At two days old, he underwent the first of many heart operations. Parents Georgina Paulson (38) and Craig Ward (49) were dealt a devastating blow. “We were told by doctors that if he gets through all of the operations, he may reach his teenage years. But if things went wrong then we would lose him really early,” said Georgina.

“It all felt like a bad dream. When he was born, I was able to spend five minutes cuddling him before he was taken away. It just ripped my heart out. It seemed like he was gone forever.” After being transferred between Leicester Royal Infirmary and Glenfield Hospital, Jonah was finally allowed home at six weeks old where he met his siblings Lily (eight), Adam (six) and Robyn (four) for the first time. The family spent nine weeks with Jonah and enjoyed a first Christmas together before he was back in hospital. The day after his second heart operation, Jonah suffered a cardiac arrest and later a stroke. He didn’t go home for nine months. “I have never seen so many wires and tubes coming out of such a small boy,” said Georgina. “His skin was purple, he had lost so much weight

and he was frail and tired. He looked like a 90 year old man.” Jonah needed a further operation but his chances of survival were slim. “I held his hand and told him that if he was tired of it all and needed to go, then he should. He squeezed my hand and went in for surgery,” said Georgina. Sadly Jonah suffered a massive bleed, he needed further operations and it became a waiting game for the family as Jonah slowly recovered. His lungs had collapsed and at six-months-old he was fitted with a life-saving tracheostomy to be ventilated, which helped him to breathe. But Jonah was determined to defy the odds and has now been at home for 18 months. Georgina added: “I couldn’t wish for a better little boy. I wish life was easier for him but he

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Audley Harrison visits Rainbows

makes the most of what he has got and he is such a cheeky little boy. He is a terrible flirt and loves the ladies. He just loves being the centre of attention and making people laugh.” In the future, Jonah will need a heart transplant, but until that time, his family live for each day. They first discovered Rainbows in 2014. Here at the hospice Jonah can receive specialist care, his parents can benefit from respite support and his brother and sisters are involved in sibling activities. “Rainbows is brilliant,” said Georgina. “At first we had reservations as we thought it would be somewhere Jonah was going to die. But it was completely different to what we had imagined. We

Help Rainbows to continue providing care and support to hundreds of children and young people with life-limited or terminal illnesses, visit: WWW.RAINBOWS.CO.UK/DONATE

know that end of life care is inevitable for Jonah and we pray that it won’t get to that but at least we know he loves Rainbows.” “We are really relaxed leaving him and we know he will be looked after by specialist carers and we get to spend time with our other children.” Each year in the East Midlands there are around 12 new cases of children who rely on breathing equipment in order to survive. Currently, there are very few centres that can provide respite care for these children who are so heavily reliant on equipment that keeps them alive; however Rainbowsis able to offer this support. Rainbows strives to do more and is increasing its services to meet demands for ventilated children like Jonah. A ventilator supports a child’s ability to breathe; some children require life sustaining ventilation which controls their breathing completely 24 hours a day. Other children need life enhancing ventilation where a child can breathe for themselves but to improve the quality of their lives they require short periods of ventilation every day.

Long standing supporters, Champions (UK) plc, brought former boxing champion, star of Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother finalist, Audley Harrison MBE, to Rainbows to meet the children, young people and staff. The Olympic gold medallist brought ‘Joy Jars’ as gifts, signed autographs and happily posed for pictures with everyone he met. Director of Income Generation at Rainbows, Andrew Ball, said: “Audley was brilliant, he was really popular with everyone here at Rainbows!” He continued: “Audley was great with the children and young people and his Joy Jars were a huge hit. He was happy to sign autographs and pose for pictures with anyone who asked. A huge thank you to Audley and the team at Champions, it really was a great day. We can’t wait to see him again for round two!”

Rainbows has been caring for children with these needs since 2011, providing a total of 11 nights of respite care to ventilated children that year. In 2014 this grew to 79 nights and last year, it was 126, a 60% increase on the previous year. The number of nights will rise again this year.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

The venue

that works for you!

Located just minutes from Leicester’s vibrant city centre, College Court is a leading conference and events venue in the East Midlands.

• Bespoke lunch options to suit you

• In House AV support team committed to helping you

In addition the venue also has the following facilities:

Following a renovation of existing conference rooms College Court now boasts 17 meeting rooms with capacity for up to 160 delegates including the new addition of the Willow room which can now hold up to 80 delegates. Our conference packages are built with the customer in mind and are ‘Quite simply... All inclusive’

• 123 bedrooms including suites and executive rooms

Quite simply... All inclusive

• Free Wi-Fi & Car Parking

• Purpose designed conference facilities • Passionate and experienced team • Flexible event space and complementary syndicate room • Extensive high quality onsite AV equipment • Click and connect high speed Wi-Fi

• Restaurant and private dining • 5 Star awarded for food hygiene • Bar and Lounge • Off-site leisure including swimming pool • Grade II Award winning building

What makes College Court different?

College Court is a haven of tranquillity, surrounded by established trees, landscaped gardens and is adjacent to our very own Arboretum.

• Unlimited refreshments and homemade snacks

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

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Colle

*Custom feedback stater istics:

Bedroom 95.4% of guestsComfort: marked 4 or 5 Standard of Be drooms and Ba Cleanliness: 5 th - 95.4% 4 - 4. room 5% Not one guest marked the st room cleanlines andard of the s as anything le ss than 4 Reception: 97.7 % said 4 or 5 Restaurant: 88 .37% said 4 or 5 Bar: 90.6% said 4 or 5 Conference Se rv 100% said 4 or ices: 5 * 5 = Excellent

“...for me the fantastic company within a great environment made for a brilliant event at a great facility” “Brilliant food and service, a very comfy night’s 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” “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” “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”

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CollegeCourtLeicester Follow us on Twitter:

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

OFFICIAL

Official suppliers of Marquees to Champions (UK) plc and the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 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. 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. 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 specialist crew will erect a marquee on a range of surfaces in countless locations.

Marquee supplier for Champions (UK) plc

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. 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. 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.

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Peter Shilton & Dan Walker host a Q&A Session at the British Par 3 Championship

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

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HAVE YOU PROTECTED YOUR LEGACY? Your family, your property, your savings and your wealth...

Legacy Probate Services Limited has brought together a wealth of business experience and knowledge from within the Will writing and Estate Planning sector with the aim of becoming the premier provider of Private Client Services in the United Kingdom. Operating across the UK with offices in Leicester and Lincoln, we pride ourselves on delivering the highest standards of customer service across a broad range of products and legal services. Whether your needs are at a corporate level or on an individual basis or just as an introducer we cater and specialise in all of the following areas:

• Wills • Trusts • Probate • Conveyancing • Trust administration • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Funeral planning • Bereavement service Whether someone needs a Will drafting, specialist Trust advice, Estate Administration or advice on what to do following a bereavement, then Legacy Probate Services Limited have the expertise on hand to assist with every aspect of Estate Planning.

Please contact us to discuss the services that Legacy can offer. Our offices are open from 10am to 7pm Monday to Thursday and Friday 9.00 to 6pm. Telephone: 0345 450 3378 Email: admin@legacyprobate.co.uk Web: www.legacyprobate.co.uk /LegacyProbate

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29/10/2015 19:23

Opening SoirĂŠe Thursday 11th June 2015 Offering high-quality dentistry in a relaxed and friendly environment, Natural Smiles celebrated the opening of their new practice in Leicester with an Opening SoirĂŠe. Guests were treated to cocktails and canapĂŠs as they toured the new state-of-the-art facilities, which is the second branch of Natural Smiles after their initial practice was established in Corby, Northamptonshire in 2001. Following this, guests were asked to go outside and balloons were released into the sky to celebrate this major step forward for Natural Smiles. Firm believers in providing patients with the best dental knowledge possible, the Natural Smiles team have your health in mind at all times. The new dental practice has been designed to provide the very best in service and comfort for their patients in and around Leicester.

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Ian was first in the saddle on day 1!

Early morning start for Clare Mattioli, Ian Mattioli, Adrian Mee, James Brooks, Ian Vernon, Andrew Broad, Kenny Cassells, James Thompson and Chris Adams

Pedal power for Andrew Broad, Adrian Mee, James Brooks, Ian Vernon, Clare Mattioli and Ian Mattioli

WEALTH MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

raises £10,000 in cycling challenge for breast cancer charity Wednesday 30th September 2015 Ian Mattioli, Clare Mattioli, Adrian Mee, Andrew Broad, Ian Vernon, James Brook... they made it!

Wealth Management and Employee Benefits business, Mattioli Woods plc, has raised over £10,000 for its week-long cycling challenge in support of national charity Breast Cancer Now.

It’s Rock and Roll all the way for Carol Poultney

The Tour de Mattioli Woods included a static bike challenge with bikes in each of its offices covering a distance of 702 miles between Aberdeen and London, via Glasgow, Buckingham, Newmarket and Leicester.

It was all bacon butties and heat rub in Newmarket for Ian Mattioii, Andrew Franklin, James Brooks, Andrew Broad, Ian Vernon, Adrian Mee, Chris Adams and Clare Mattioli

In addition to this challenge, a team of employees including Chief Executive Ian Mattioli and his wife, also took to the road and cycled a total of 227 miles from the Leicester office to Buckingham, Newmarket and back to Leicester to raise additional funds. Ian commented: “This initiative has been a great testament to the community spirit we are building in our business. I am very proud our whole group has come together to raise donations for such a worthy cause”.

Miles and miles of smiles for Jennie Stringer

Breast Cancer Now is the UK’s largest breast cancer charity and is dedicated to funding research into this devastating disease. It focuses its energies on four critical areas: prevention, early detection and diagnosis, treatments and secondary breast cancer. By tackling the disease in the labs, on the political agenda, through public health information and with the health service, it believes it can transform the outlook for everyone affected by breast cancer. This year, over 50,000 women will be told they have the disease and over 1,000 women in the UK will have their lives cut short by breast cancer every month.

Katy Merryweather proving that you can do it with style

Bob Woods, Mattioli Woods Chairman, commented: “There has been a massive increase in breast cancer over the last 40 years – on average it has more than doubled in Western countries, and in some quadrupled. Further, there is evidence that the rate is actually increasing. Whilst some of the factors which lead to this disease are known, it is still not yet well understood. Breast Cancer Now’s primary objective is to support research to ensure that, by the middle of the century, nobody dies of this awful disease”.

Michael ‘Care Bear’ Crowe

The cycling challenge was the first of a series of fundraising events for Mattioli Woods, including its annual charity dinner which takes place at Leicester Cathedral in October.

No system failures for our Head of IT Andrew Broad

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Mattioli Woods JustGiving pages are still open for donations: www.justgiving.com/Tour-de-MattioliWoods www.justgiving.com/real-tour-de-mattioli-woods

Ian and Clare Mattioli racing to breakfast in Buckingham

03/11/2015 10:27

Joel Mulloy, Group Director with Sue Pimm and Sara Carr

Ready to celebrate a half century of Abel

Leicester Tigers Ground ready to welcome guests

50th Anniversary Evening Saturday 22nd August 2015 Joel Mulloy

On the evening of August 22nd 2015, Abel were proud to celebrate the firm’s 50th anniversary at the Leicester Tigers Rugby stadium.

Duncan Charles, Sue Pimm and Sara Carr

Abel are market leaders in home and workplace security. With 13 branches spanning from Scotland to the south of England, the firm’s reach and ever-growing customer base is testament to the company’s longevity and consistency over the years. Celebrating with staff, key suppliers and a host of valued customers, Abel’s evening also welcomed the firm’s Chairwoman, Mrs Marlene Eyre, as well as Directors Joel and Robin Mulloy and Pat Allen.

Pat Allen, Director

Guests were treated to the phenomenal magician, Will Gray, who performed both at the reception and in the dining hall, stunning diners with some jaw dropping table magic.

Joel Mulloy and Willie Thorne

In addition, Snooker’s very own ‘Mr Maximum’ and event host extraordinaire, Willie Thorne, was in attendance as event MC, ensuring the event ran perfectly to schedule before inviting staff to the stage to collect their awards. Leicester Tigers star player Manu Tuilagi also attended the evening. Abel currently sponsor Manu during the 2015/2016 season, giving the firm fantastic exposure in one of Leicester’s most famed sporting areas. The evening was a wonderful appreciation of what Abel has achieved and another example of thriving business in the East Midlands. Joel Mulloy, Lee Tudor and Willie Thorne

Each guest received an Abel van as a memento of the night

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The evening in full swing

Joel Mulloy and Company Chairwoman Marlene Eyre

Champagne glasses awaiting Champagne

03/11/2015 10:29

Ken and Julie Crouch

Greenwich Knight

Jason Yeomans from Isaac

In association with

Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball

Rainbows

Chris and Katrina Greenwell

The Dorchester, Park Lane, London Friday 29th May 2015 Hosted by MasterChef judge Gregg Wallace, the Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball was an incredible, black tie occasion held in one of Britain’s most iconic locations, the Ballroom of The Dorchester in London’s Park Lane. Organised by Champions (UK) plc, this was a real star-studded affair with the likes of Sam Bailey, William Roache MBE, Vanessa Feltz, Peter Shilton OBE and the boys from Blue in attendance. With the help of a number of generous donors to the charity auctions, guests were able raise a considerable sum of money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. Chris Darlington from Mazars

The Loughborough-based charity carries out vital work in support of youngsters with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and their families, so the funds raised were essential to their ongoing activities.

David Ford and Melanie Ford

Entertainment on the night was provided by Strictly Come Dancing dancers Janette and Aljaz, Todd Miller and The Joe Loss Orchestra. This was a truly wonderful occasion and a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for one of Leicestershire’s worthiest causes.

THE FROZEN FOOD SPECIALISTS

National & International Retail, Renovation & Maintenance

Concept Development Equipment Manufacture Store Fit Out Main Contractor

Project Management Reactive & Planned Maintenance Office Refurbishment Dilapidations

M2K Services

Unit 5 Sketchley Meadows, Sketchley Meadows Industrial Estate, Hinckley Leicestershire LE10 3EN T: 01455 238600 F: 01455 238123

www.m2kservices.co.uk

Craig Philips and Chloe Bass

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Derek Redmond, Peter Shilton OBE and Steph Haywood

03/11/2015 10:32

Lee Ryan and Sam Bailey

Andy Abraham, Simon Webbe, Gregg Wallace and Graham Bell

Dean Andrews and Helen Bowan-Green

Simon Webb and Gregg Wallace

Aljaz and Janette

Ben Ofeudu and Vanessa Feltz

Janine Edwards & Barry Baxter

Paul Adisson and the M2K table

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Pat Sharp and Duncan James

Tara Dinan and Tara Denmark

Ken Crouch and the Crouch Logistics table

03/11/2015 10:32

Craig Phillips, Chloe Bass and Matthew Hoggard MBE

Anna Furniss from HSBC

Cartwright King table

Michael Holding & Gordon Greenidge MBE entertain crowds at the King Power Stadium

Gordon Greenidge MBE with Wilmott Dixon table

Thursday 11th June 2015

Chris Darlington from Mazars and guests

On Thursday 11th June, Champions (UK) plc were honoured to welcome guests to a very special evening to raise valuable funds for its chosen charity, the Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. Hosted by the former England cricketer, Geoff Miller OBE, the fundraising dinner was held at Leicesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s King Power Stadium.

Michael Holding with James Upton from Upton Steel and guests

The evening was a tribute to the West Indies fast bowling legend, Michael Holding. He took to the stage to entertain the audience with fascinating anecdotes from his experiences as an integral member of the bowling attack in the 1970s and 80s. He was accompanied by another special guest, Gordon Greenidge MBE, a fellow member of the West Indies team.

David Edwards and Sophia Hayes

Guests included cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and celebrity DIY expert Craig Phillips, as well as leading brands from the Leicestershire area, Heat Holders and Lumbers. Guests and sponsors gave generously to Rainbows, which is the only dedicated childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospice in the East Midlands.

Graham Smith from Certis and guests

Geoff Miller OBE, Gordon Greenidge MBE and Michael Holding

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Dominic from Lumbers and the stand up bingo winner

Enrico and Mick Ventola

Dominic Gomersall and Phillippa Dempster

03/11/2015 10:34

Paul Davies and guests from Grosvenor Casino

Simon Lindley from Cambridge & Counties Bank with John Inverdale

Chris Darlington from Mazars and guests with Lewis Moody MBE

An evening with Lewis Moody MBE and Shane Williams MBE Thursday 15th October 2015 Dominic Gomersall from Lumbers Jewellers presenting Aspinal of London bag to happy winner

Once again, hundreds and hundreds of pounds were raised for the Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People at the annual Champions (UK) plc Charity Rugby Dinner.

John Inverdale, Lewis Moody MBE, Shane Williams MBE and Chester Williams

Hosted by BBC Sport broadcaster John Inverdale and held at the King Power Stadium in Leicester, the superb dinner took place just two days before the Rugby World Cup Quarter finals. Funds were raised through a charity auction conducted by Antiques Road Trip presenter Charlie Ross. Guests were welcomed with a champagne reception before tucking into a gorgeous three-course dinner. The sold-out event then centred on an evening with Lewis Moody MBE and Shane Williams MBE, World Cup winner and Walesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; all-time top try scorer respectively, who delighted the audience with stories from their incredible careers.

Ian Elliot from Nicholls Colton and guests

Mark Platt and Melanie Robertson

Surprise guest for the evening was Chester Williams, the former South African rugby union player and another World Cup winner. As ever, the event was a roaring success and will undoubtedly be repeated again in 2016.

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Chris Darlington from Mazars and Lewis Moody MBE

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Courtney Kerkin

CMY

Gail Emms MBE and Shane Williams MBE

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Chester Williams, Lewis Moody MBE and Shane Williams MBE

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Adrian Dixon, pianist for the evening

Aspirational Magazine and Champions (UK) plc table

Neil White, Editor of Derby Telegraph

HEADLINE SPONSORS

Grade II* listed building Derby Roundhouse set for the occasion

Company of the year winner, Charapak

In association with

Wednesday 24th June 2015

One of the hosts for the evening, Anne Davies

Excellence in Manufacturing Winner, Evans Concrete Products LTD

On the evening of Wednesday 24th June, representatives from the region’s most influential businesses gathered at the stunning Grade II* listed Derby Roundhouse to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of local businesses over the last 12 months. Guests were treated to an evening of fine dining with entertainment provided by the outstanding Adrian Dixon, a regular pianist at the Dorchester Hotel. The excitement didn’t stop there, as a dynamic duo directed the proceedings: Anne Davies, broadcaster and face of East Midlands Today, who was joined by Paul Ross, co-anchor of London’s 94.9 Breakfast Show. The glittering event provided an opportunity to showcase and recognise those that have made a significant contribution to the local economy. The 13 categories covered a variety of sectors from retail, services and manufacturing, to technology and the creative industries, and from international traders to those that benefit the local community.

A great game of stand up bingo

Janine Edwards of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

The evening also raised vital funds for the Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, to go some way to helping them continue their valuable work for youngsters with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. Organised by the leading brand agency, Champions (UK) plc, the evening was most enjoyable for all who attended. For the winners, the accolade will boost their marketplace impact and place them as part of an elite group that will continue to be recognised year after year.

Kevin Connelly The Entertainment for the evening

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For more details on how you can get involved, contact Ashleigh Kerr of Champions (UK) plc at akerr@ championsukplc.com or call her on 08453 31 30 31

Mattioli Woods enjoying the occasion

30/10/2015 16:19

2015 Winners Not-For-Profit Organisation Award MARIA HANSON FOUNDATION

Contribution to the Community Award FLUID IDEAS

Not-For-Profit organisation winner, Maria Hanson Foundation with sponsor Sellick Partnership

International Trade Award QUADRALENE LIMITED

Excellence in Manufacturing Award EVANS CONCRETE PRODUCTS LTD

Creative Industries Business of the Year MACKNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Retail business of the Year winner, Caralot with sponsor Greendog Media

Retail Business of the Year CARALOT

Excellence in Science & Technnology Award LUBRIZOL

Derby Sales & Marketing Award

Paul Ross one of the hosts for the evening

HANNELLS

Services Award MORLEY HAYES

Business Entreprenuer of the Year WEALTH MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

ALEX GROGAN - MANCAVE GROOMING

New Business of the Year

Winner of pass the teddy

KAPPTURE

Derby Small Business of the Year JJM BUILDING SUPPLIES LTD

Derby Company of the Year CHARAPAK Services Award winner, Morley Hayes with sponsor Franklin Underwood

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Bonita Norris

David Bryon former MD of BMI baby

Monday 26th October 2015 Businesses and business people looking to forge or strengthen their connections in the region praised the quality of The Leicester Mercury Business Summit 2015, a conference attached to the very first Leicester Business Festival. David Smith giving his talk on the global economy

Heading up the list of speakers was David Smith, Economics Editor of the Sunday Times, who inspired delegates with his talk which covered the global economy and the state of the world’s financial markets.

Gareth Davis Sponsor, Chris Darlington of Mazars

Another speaker was Gareth Davis, Chairman of William Hill and Wolseley and ex CEO of Imperial Tobacco. Also speaking at the summit was Bonita Norris, who at one point was the youngest British woman to get to the top of Mount Everest.

Guests engrosed in the various talks

Businesses that had stands at The Leicester Mercury Business Summit – held at the impressive Phoenix, Leicester’s independent cinema, art centre and café – reported a high level of enquires from a genuinely interested audience. The summit was co-ordinated by Champions (UK) plc and the headline sponsor was JLT Specialty, the UK’s leading specialist insurance broker.

Gareth Davis Chairman of William Hill and former CEO of Imperial Tobacco

The Leicester Business Festival ran from 26th October to 6th November and consisted of more than 84 unique events across eight business sectors.

Headline Sponsor Sally Swann, from JLT

Sponsor Phillip Wood from UBS

Sponsor Mike Kirsopp from Cambridge & Counties Bank

Guests networking in between the informative presentations

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Dominic Gomersall and Aatin Anadkat

Janine Edwards

Lumbers’ new showroom

Exclusive client lunch at Lumbers Thursday 15th October 2015 Ken Sutton, Carole Sutton and Simon Fleet

Clients and potential clients alike attended a day at Lumbers, hosted by Janine Edwards. Principal Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management. The event was set in the glamorous new Lumbers venue in Leicester. Clients arrived to see the smart new retail store and then moved upstairs to the purpose built presentation room for some interesting insights from their Industry Experts.

Dan Looney

Dan Looney, Investment Consultant at St. James’s Place, talked about future new Tax Rules and Opportunities, Markets and the Economy in general. Guests were then given a tour of the new premises by the owner, Dominic Gomersall, before moving back upstairs to the beautiful restaurant area, where they had a fine lunch, provided by Finesse Collection, and then had a chance to mix and chat with fellow Investors.

Clients gathering for Dominic’s tour

Janine Edwards

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If you would like to attend Janine’s next client lunch, or would like any further information, please contact her on 01676 530 606.

Janine Edwards and Ken Taylor

The new dining area at Lumbers

Wilf Leek and Janine Edwards

29/10/2015 20:02

Roxanna Hayes and Sophia Hayes

Derek Redmond

John Hayes, Sue and Rick Cressman and Donna Hayes

Office Opening Gregg Wallace, Alan and Claire Graham

Friday 25th September 2015

Guests assembling for the opening

Champions (UK) plc celebrated the opening of their new extended 13,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Costock with an office opening celebration. Welcoming many of their top clients and more than a few famous faces including Peter Shilton OBE, Gregg Wallace and Matthew Hoggard MBE, the event provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate the continued growth and success of the brand agency.

Lucy Kay

The afternoon began with a Champagne reception before Rushcliffe MP and former Chancellor of the Exchequer Ken Clarke QC returned to open the new offices, six years to the day after he had opened the original building.

Gregg Wallace and Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC

Former British 400m record holder Derek Redmond hosted the event, which also featured entertainment from comedian Dominic Holland and opera singer Lucy Kay. Guests enjoyed a three course meal before taking to the dancefloor for some tunes provided by Urban Intro.

Elyssa Fagan, Jack Hayes & Ashleigh Kerr

Louisa Hayes, Louise Poole, Mark Slaviero, Jon Gladstone and Roger Halfpenny

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John Hayes and Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC

Lauren Ecob, Sandy Drummond, Maria and Derek Redmond

Rick Cressman and Derek Redmond

03/11/2015 10:39

Hayes Family and Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC

Louise Poole, William Roache MBE, Mark Slaviero and Mark Platt

Dominic Holland

William Roache MBE and Dominic Holland

Terri Burton, Abigail Millington, Jon Gladstone and Chris Wilford

Alan Warner FEAA and Lucy Kay

Champions (UK) plc staff

Guests enjoying dinner

Louise Poole, Peter Landa and Vik Landa

Matthew Hayes and Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC

Benny Lawrence and Chris Brookes

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03/11/2015 10:40

David Ford during target practice

Andrew Brammer, Sophia Hayes, Captain Tony Spacey and Joe Hanney Kim Gomersall enjoying the segway

Ian Gosling, Deborah Hancock, Andrew Hancock, Dominic Gomersall and Patrick Bradshaw

Country Pursuits Day

Graham Flowers, Dave Allen, Kevin Burns and James Warne

Thursday 25th June 2015 Hosted at Noseley Hall in Billesdon, the Aspirational Cub welcomed its members to a country pursuits day filled with some of Britain’s greatest traditional field sports. With exceptional panoramic views of some of the Leicestershire’s most picturesque countryside, all the teams competed across a range of activities including archery, muzzle-loader & flintlock shooting, crossbow shooting, clay pigeon shooting and a Segway experience. Peter Edwards, Janine Edwards, William Hazlerigg, Aatin Anadkat, Arthur Hazlerigg and Wilson Boardman

In between the various activities, a delicious lunch was provided by The Finesse Collection. The final activity of the day was GNAT shooting – a remote control plane flown by an experienced pilot with full control of speed, height and angles.

Tim Maxted and guests

The thoroughly enjoyable day concluded with afternoon tea and a prize giving ceremony to mark another successful event for the Aspirational Club.

HOSPITALITY

James Warne is all smiles on the segway

Tom James, Graham Flowers, Dave Allen, Kevin Burns and James Warne

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David Ford and Canvendish Sporting giving expert advice

Peter Edwards and Arthur Hazelrigg

Noseley Hall and Billesdon

30/10/2015 16:24

One of Finesse Hospitality’s finest chefs

Guests enjoying the evening James Blick and Simon Fleet

Yvonne Pulford

Gastronomique Food Tasting & Demonstration Evening

David and Melanie Ford with Mick Ventola

Tuesday 28th April 2015 Members of the Aspirational Club had the exclusive opportunity to view a demonstration from one of the finest chefs in the East Midlands and sample the delicious gastronomique food prepared by Finesse Hospitality.

Tim Maxted, Janine Edwards and Lisa Glover

The venue was provided by Bentons, and guests were welcomed to Cream Lodge in Barrow Upon Soar. Sitting amongst 10 acres of land, the luxurious property features a luxurious spa pool complex, state-of-the-art cinema, billiards room, luxury kitchen and bathrooms.

James Warne with Peter and Sarah Marples

Guests were treated to a culinary delight by the chef. The evening allowed him to showcase his talents to an appreciative audience, sharing his recipes and techniques, before being able to sample the dishes themselves.

Guests enjoying the evening

Just one in a series of events by the club each year, these events prove to be a great way to build strong business links in the region, promoting and supporting the organisations that continually add to the East Midlands’ strengthening economy. The companies that make up the Aspirational Club include: Champions (UK) plc, Bentley Leicester, Lamborghini Leicester, Lumbers, St James’s Place and Berkley Insurance Group.

Emma Aria, Anthony Crossman and Tara Dinan

HOSPITALITY

Pantone 871 Metallic

Dominic Gomersall with Peter and Sarah Marples

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Pantone C465

Guests enjoying the evening

03/11/2015 10:45

magazine

MENDES in this edition...

EDITION 12

OME148_aspirational_285x230.indd Aspi A/W 2015 Cover Eva Mendez.indd 1 1

01/10/2015 11:19

EVA MENDES AND HER RISE TO SUCCESS THE MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS AGENCY: CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC’S LATEST OFFERING BLUE: WHAT IS NEXT FOR THE SUPERSTAR BOY BAND?

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

ASPIRATIONAL

E VA

AUTUMN/WINTER 2015

THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

30/10/2015 15:30