Aspirational Magazine - Issue 6 - Autumn/Winter

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ASPIRATIONAL magazine

in this edition:

CAMERON DIAZ: THERE REALLY IS SOMETHING ABOUT THIS HOLLYWOOD ANGEL SIR RIDLEY SCOTT: KING OF THE BLOCKBUSTER BRAND NEW WORLD: A WORLD OF BRANDING POSSIBILITIES

AUTUMN/WINTER 2012

Diaz

CAMERON

"WHEN YOUR MISSION IS TO FLY AT 800 KM/H LESS THAN TWO METRES FROM OTHER TEAM AIRCRAFT, YOU ONLY TRUST THE CHRONOMETRIC PRECISION OF THE WORLD’S BEST CHRONOGRAPH."

Frédéric Schwebel ably handles his role in the "slot" position within the Breitling Jet Team, the toughest of them all. When performing with no obvious escape route, mistakes are just not an option. Strapped to his wrist is the Chronomat, powered by the ultimate high-performance chronograph movement, Breitling Caliber 01, chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), an exceptional "motor" entirely developed and built by Breitling. Ultra-sturdy, ultra-reliable and ultra-watertight to 500 m, the Chronomat stands out for its unique design and its incredible concern for details. For Frédéric Schwebel, it is quite simply the world’s best chronograph. 5-YEAR BREITLING WARRANTY £ 6760*

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

B R EI TLI N G . C O M

*RRP. Subject to change without notice.

HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION

ASPIRATIONAL Editor in Chief Matthew Hayes Creative Editor Sarah Garner

magazine

Dominic Gomersall writes:

Features Editor Victoria Marconetto Advertising Editor Amelia Benskin Advertising Manager Sophia Hayes Features Writers Colin Herd Megan Smith Benoit Lawrence Laura Hayes Designers Jodie Barker Kristian Goodeve Ewen Lewis Photography Kristian Goodeve Ewen Lewis Production Manager Sarah Pearson Production Assistant Alexandra Buist Web Development Julian Purser Steven Wood

Contributors Michelle Dilley Gillian Wesley Dominic Gomersall Eurojet Janine Edwards Anna Scotney

Michelle Brannan Philippa Dempster Jason Yeomans Cherie Concannon Sally Walder Riccardo Albiniano

www.aspirational.uk.com For mailing list and subscription enquiries please visit www.aspirational.uk.com For advertising enquiries please contact: Amelia Benskin on 08453 313031 or email info@aspirational.uk.com

Published By

It has been an incredible summer to be British. Alongside the Queen’s jubilee celebrations, the Olympics have rewarded the country with unparalleled fervor and national pride. Who can forget the Opera singers enjoying their moment singing ‘Rule Britannia’ in front of the Royal Family and the nation, whilst the English summer attempted to drown them in full song??! The sporting Summer of Olympics and Paralympics gave us a blessed two months of upbeat news and delight as so many heroes were made in the Olympic facilities. I certainly felt an immense pride that Team GB pulled off both events seamlessly and showed the World that we should still be referred to as Great Britain. The sporting summer is prolonged for me. It is my wife’s next milestone birthday in November (best not to put in writing which birthday), and Kim is set to celebrate by running her first ever full marathon in the New York event. Kim has been training since last year with a group of mothers at Stoneygate School and I am very proud of her efforts. I would be very grateful if anyone would kindly sponsor her on behalf of Rainbows at www.justgiving.com/Kim-Gomersall. I will be travelling to support her and perhaps will have a drink for each of the 26 miles as she runs it!! The focus on London over the Summer hasn’t distracted from business in Leicester. We have seen a marked increase in foreign visitors purchasing from Leicester’s finest jeweller! We have seen important sales to Russia, Singapore, China and Australia with many European visitors also being attracted to our business. The two Leicester Universities have grown in worldwide stature and we should all be aware of their importance to the local community in bringing in much of the foreign investment. The end of summer brings our minds to start focusing on the impending Christmas and for us the busiest part of the year. Breitling have endorsed us by making Lumbers one of only 2 Gold Wing accounts in the UK. This will enable us to provide even rarer limited edition watches which will be exclusive to us. This will be further enhanced by a refit of the Breitling boutique that will add further value and visibility to the brand in shop. Alongside this, MontBlanc have announced that Lumbers is one of only 12 ‘Lighthouse’ accounts where we again have excelled with their product. In 2013 they will close all other MontBlanc accounts in the City to concentrate on Lumbers – a huge accolade for our ever growing business. Since our last edition of Aspirational, I would like to welcome two new members of our team Laura Firth joins us from Goldsmiths with many year’s experience within the diamond industry. Sam Brown joins with equal pedigree having worked for a similar jeweller to Goldsmiths on Market Street. Iain Dilley moves on to pastures new and has started an exciting new business, www.woodysantiques.com. Aspirational are pleased to welcome him as a new advertiser on page 62. I would like to wish Iain well and thank him for his contribution to Lumbers over the last 5 years. As Christmas approaches may I wish you all a very Happy Festive season and good health to all your families.

Champions (UK) Plc Barrington House, Leake Road, Costock, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE12 6XA Tel: 08453 313031 Fax: 08453 313032 www.championsukplc.com Please note: Aspirational magazine is fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors or omissions. Aspirational Magazine can under no circumstances be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the magazine. We cannot be held liable or responsible for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials, photography or any other matter supplied by third parties. The views and opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or indeed Aspirational Magazine or any featured parties.

“...to experience that massive adrenalin rush when you step into a new stadium, all the more so when that Olympic Stadium is packed full of people waving British flags.” Jessica Ennis

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letter from the

EDITOR I am really delighted to welcome you to our autumn/winter edition of Aspirational magazine. After such a wonderful summer of sporting achievement, what better way to celebrate the best of British talent than with a tour of some of our best exports? From Sir Ridley Scott to Sir Ian Botham, our international stars continue to give the world around them plenty to talk about. Sporting greats, ground breaking directors and stars of stage and screen are all celebrated within the pages of this edition and their achievements are something that we can all aspire to. As with every issue, the magazine is filled with exciting features to help you live the luxurious lifestyle you deserve. On page 16 we feature the amazing Cameron Diaz, bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour to this issue. Continuing this, as always, we have stunning diamonds, precious gems and watches from luxury jewellers Lumbers as well as exclusive details of Leicester’s newest art gallery opening ‘The Sutton Gallery’ on Allendale Road – one of the city’s most exclusive shopping areas on page 86. Michelle Brennan, fitness guru, shares her secrets for a healthy lifestyle on page 30 and this edition offers luxury men’s fashion from Christopher Scotney and Bespoke England Shoes. For us, this issue also provides an opportunity to look ahead to the festive season and we hope that we have included lots of helpful gift ideas to help you give your loved ones the lavish lifestyle they deserve. Our business and finance section pays homage to some of the region’s most aspirational businesses. We have a feature on the incredible influence of social media on business success, with one company’s mission to embrace this phenomenon on page 100. We have also been on a mission to uncover the power of the brand and our article on page 96 contains some fascinating information for both business people and consumers alike. In our dedicated restaurant feature on pages 78 -82, we will also be recommending the best restaurants that the East Midlands has to offer, ideal venues for you to celebrate the festive season in style, or for a luxurious night out after all the Christmas and New Year festivities are done. Our selection boasts a wide variety of different culinary offerings, with something to suit every taste. As always, our social pages sparkle with coverage of so many of the East Midland’s glamorous events from the past few months. We love sharing all the details from these events with you and the pages are packed with a variety of different special occasions. Leicester’s most prestigious jeweller, Lumbers, presents some of its most amazing jewellery and I’m sure you will agree that there are some truly aspirational pieces enclosed within these pages, courtesy of Lumbers dazzling collections. The renowned family jewellers continue to source some of the most beautiful and impressive jewels and watches and it truly is a pleasure to share them with you in Aspirational Magazine. I hope that you enjoy reading this edition as much as we enjoyed researching and compiling our latest features. In addition to the copy that sits before you, our online presence continues to expand and with every issue we supply some fantastic media-rich content and supplements that can be viewed exclusively online. Visit our fantastic website to sign up to our e-Newsletter and get exclusive monthly updates on all of the East Midland’s most exciting events. Visit www.aspirational.co.uk to view our online offering.

Matthew Hayes Editor in Chief

“ In the beginning it was just about the business-now its about the brand.” Richard Branson

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Cameron Diaz ................................. 16

Lace Market Hotel .......................... 38

Stapleford Park ............................... 64

There really is something about one of Hollywood’s greatest actresses

Embracing Nottinghamshire’s rich heritage in its most historic quarter.

The most sophisticated event location

Nutrafit .......................................... 26

Ian Botham .................................... 44

Why lifestyle so important during menopause

A cricketing legend and fund raising hero

Michelle Brannan ........................... 30

Archerfield ...................................... 48

Aesthetic Fitness: Her guide to achieving your health and fitness goals

A look at this world-class, private golf members club

Paul McCartney .............................. 52 Pop royalty and national treasure, we take a look at one of our greatest British icons

WINTER WEDDINGS

Ridley Scott .................................... 58 King of the Blockbuster

Your perfect day .............................. 32 Our guide to the most perfect of winter weddings

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Bentons .......................................... 68 The East Midlands most exclusive homes

Moir Wade ...................................... 72 Bespoke kitchens for the most beautiful homes

Indigo ............................................ 74 The Ultimate in interior design

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88

140 58

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48 ARTS AND CULTURE

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

SOCIAL AND NETWORKING

Hotel Maiyango .............................. 76

Tenon.............................................. 94

Socialising.................................... 126

A boutique hotel and exciting dining

Bespoke financial services

Fine Dining Guide .......................... 78

Brand New World............................ 96

Exclusive information on the East Midlands most prestigious dining

A world of branding possibilities

Charles Mitchell Wines.................... 84

Embracing the social media phenomenon

St. James’s Place .......................... 104 Managing your wealth

Britain’s Olympic director

East Midlands Conference Centre ........................... 92 Make yours an event with a difference

St James’s Place Seminar at Bentley Gourmet Dinner at The Lace Market Hotel

Children of the Revolution ............ 100

The finest wines

Danny Boyle ................................... 88

The most exclusive events from the East Midlands and beyond…

Building Young Entrepreneurs: The Fox’s Lair Mini Oscars Night The Childline 25th Anniversary Ball Charity Golf Day with RSM Tenon An Evening with Anton and Erin

Golf Premier Solutions .................. 108

An Evening with Alec Stewart OBE

The art of sports psychology

An Evening with Geoff Miller

Cherie Concannon ....................... 112

William Roache MBE Golf Classic

Coaching the best performance

Aspirational Wine Tasting Assam Cup Polo Charity Day A Glorious Country Pursuits Day Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship Nottingham Post Sports Awards St James’s Place Big Band Ball 2012 Christopher Scotney: 40 Years of Success

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ASPIRATIONAL

magazine the ultimate

LUXURY MAGAZINE Aspirational Magazine is distributed to the most prestigious luxury hotels, bars, boutiques and restaurants.

Visit the Aspirational Online website to see why the world’s most renowned brands call Aspirational Magazine Britain’s best luxury lifestyle publication.

A luxury publication like no other, each issue of Aspirational Magazine is an essential guide to everything you need to live the good life.

Don’t forget to sign up for our monthly e-newsletter featuring exclusive features and news and check out our Online Luxury Gift Guide, an indispensable selection of the world’s most luxurious gifts.

: EUROJET AVIATION

You’ll have to fly a long way to be better served... ‘Awesome’, ‘fantastic’, ‘effortless’, ‘excellent’...some of the phenomenal customer feedback received by Eurojet since opening its state of the art private aviation facility at Birmingham Airport. Opened in March 2012, the Eurojet Business Aviation Centre (EBAC) was the latest development in the company’s 25 year history as one of Europe’s leading private jet service providers. The 41,000sq ft Centre includes an exclusive VIP handling terminal (also known as an ‘FBO’), Cessna Citation Service Facility and hangar. Client feedback from day one has been extremely positive with one visitor saying: “If all FBOs were like this one, I would fly everyday!” But it’s not only the individual customer that’s responding so positively to the Eurojet service – seasoned professionals are also showing their appreciation.

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Reflecting on a recent visit, one Chief Pilot simply commented: “Only one word for the service... ‘awesome’.” As word spreads Eurojet are seeing a range of new and unique requirements coming through from a broad spectrum of customers from private jet charter clients to global corporate brands. One recent task involved handling a large VIP aircraft for a events management company. The relieved events manager described her experience as “hassle-free from start to finish.” A sentiment echoed by another group organiser who felt that his clients “will have to fly a long way to be better served”, and another who described their surroundings as “truly luxurious”. Managing Director, Graeme Campbell said: “We are immensely proud of the feedback we have received; this is a huge testament to the professionalism and dedication of our team who thrive on exceeding expectations.”

For further information contact Eurojet Aviation on

0845 465 0550 or log on to

www.eurojet.eu.com

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There’s something about...

CAMERON DIAZ Ever since her feature film debut in The Mask in 1994, Cameron Diaz has been one of the most in-demand, captivating and successful film stars in the world. Aspirational takes a look at the career of one of Hollywood’s true stars...

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Cameron Diaz has everything: beauty, style, wit and charm. However, as every aspiring actor in Los Angeles knows, those qualities aren’t always enough to guarantee a successful and enduring career in the notoriously fickle environs of tinsel town. Having been in the industry for 18 years, starring in over 35 films, Cameron Diaz has proven time and again that she has that priceless gift: star quality. Born in San Diego in 1972, the future Hollywood superstar began her career as a model at age 16, including campaigns for Calvin Klein and Levi’s, and a front-cover of teen magazine Seventeen in 1990. Having left school at age 16, Diaz’s independent spirit and adventurousness took her all over the world, including living for periods of time in Japan, Australia, Mexico, Morrocco and Paris working as a model. However, it was back in California in 1994 when auditioning for The Mask that Diaz got her big break into the movie industry. Having gone to the audition without any formal training, Diaz began acting classes while she was filming for The Mask, resulting in a mesmerising performance that lit up the screen, achieving the rarely-seen feat of upstaging Jim Carrey in their scenes together.

Following the massive success of The Mask, Diaz became an overnight star. However, rather than signing with a large studio immediately, Diaz made the shrewd decision of carefully selecting independent films in order to gradually acclimatize to the industry and learn her trade in films such as Feeling Minnesota, Head Above Water and The Last Supper. In 1997, Diaz starred alongside Julia Roberts and Rupert Everett in the hugely successful My Best Friend’s Wedding and a year later in the surprise hit alongside Ewen MacGregor A Life Less Ordinary. Diaz is unusual among the elite of Hollywood’s leading ladies for having appeared most often in comedy films: from The Mask, There’s Something About Mary and She’s The One to Charlie’s Angels, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and, of course, Being John Malkovich. She is, quite simply, one of the finest comic actors in the world, displaying time and again her sensational comic timing, deadpan delivery and wit. Her performance in the Farrelly Brothers’ There’s Something About Mary won her the New York Film Critics’ Circle Award for Best Actress and also earned her an American Comedy Award for Best Actress and an MTV Award.

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Her comic talents were on display again this year when she appeared in Bad Teacher, a teen comedy in which Diaz played perhaps the most irresponsible and outrageous teacher ever to appear on screen, whose only motivation is to find and ensnare a rich husband. Starring alongside Justin Timberlake and Jason Segal, Diaz’s faultless performance energised the film, making it one of 2012’s most unexpected box office successes and adding to Diaz’s reputation as a comic star.

“It’s a nonsympathetic part. Viewers will certainly be surprised to see Diaz playing a former corporate killer turned rabid maternal angel who will do anything to prevent her daughter’s death... We are all aware that Cameron doesn’t have children in real life, and everyone said, ‘Won’t you hire someone named Kate for this part?’- Kate Winslet or Cate Blanchett - but I was bored with that, “I was like, ‘This girl can do it.’ I wanted to show people what I already know.” – Nick Cassavetes

During her career, Diaz has worked alongside some of Hollywood’s most accomplished directors, including Martin Scorsese, on 2002’s blockbuster Gangs of New York, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. In the Charlie Kaufmanpenned and Spike Jonze-directed Being John Malkovich, Diaz again dazzled on our screens in a hugely critically acclaimed performance in a film that is widely heralded as one of the greatest films of all time. Working with another renowned director, Cameron Crowe, Diaz starred in the groundbreaking picture Vanilla Sky in 2001, opposite Tom Cruise and Penelope Cruz. As a science fiction thriller, the film marked a significant departure for Diaz, who demonstrated her versatility as an actress.

And indeed she could. The film is one of Diaz’s most celebrated performances and received praise from film fans and commentators around the world. However, whether she is turning her hand to intense drama or slapstick comedy, throughout her career, Diaz has proved a commercial success as well as a critical success. She is the highest placed female on Box Office Mojo’s list of the highest grossing stars of all time, having starred in films with a combined total gross of $2,805 million, averaging over $90 million dollars gross per film.

“I was like, ‘This girl can do it.’ I wanted to show people what I already know.” In 2009, cult director Nick Cassavetes (son of legendary auteur John Cassavetes and actress Gena Rowlands) turned to Diaz to star in his adaptation of Jodi Picoult’s novel My Sister’s Keeper. Having become acquainted with Diaz when she was starring in The Mask over ten years earlier, Cassavetes knew she was right for this role:

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2013 is set to be another blockbuster year for Diaz and could see her achieve the Best Actress Academy Award that has so far eluded her. Starring in Ridley Scott’s hugely anticipated The Counselor alongside an all star cast of Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt, Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem. A hard hitting thriller, the film is set to provide yet another challenge for Diaz, and a welcome return to our screens in a dramatic role. As she approaches her twentieth year in Hollywood, Diaz’s star remains on the rise as she continues to transform dramas, thrillers, comedies and every other genre she turns her hand to into hugely successful and captivating films. Perhaps above all else, Cameron Diaz can be admired for her film-selection, carefully choosing films that she knows will allow her to perform to her best, dazzling audiences just as she did when she first stepped onto our screens as sultry lounge singer Tina Carlyle in The Mask.

Images, clockwise from top left; Cameron Diaz as Lotte Schwartz in the 1999 American comedy-fantasy film, Being John Malkovich; Co-presenting the award for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup at the 84th Annual Academy Awards with Jennifer Lopez; With co-star, Tom Cruise in the groundbreaking picture, Vanilla Sky; Arriving in style at the 84th Annual Academy Awards at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, February 26th 2012 in Hollywood, California; Cameron Diaz attends the “Schiaparelli And Prada: Impossible Conversations” Costume Institute Gala

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

GILLIAN WESLEY DESIGN and Catwalk Café in Knowle offers its customers a refreshing taste of something different…

Gillian Wesley is a designer with a difference. She cares passionately about providing women with a garment and an experience that they will never forget. Using her own clients as models and providing a unique shopping environment, Gillian Wesley Design and Catwalk Café provides the Midlands with its own truly bespoke retail experience. Located in Knowle, Warwickshire the boutique encapsulates a type of glamour and luxury that has been all but lost by the commercialised fashion industry. For Gillian, her hand made designs offer customers something that is tailor made for them. The intricate designs and close attention to detail means that each piece is unique and will last the proud owner years with their specially made, bespoke corset. Gillian champions her corsets as being as versatile and unique as their owners. They can be worn for all types of occasions, from a wedding to a night out at a stylish wine bar or restaurant. The designer knows that her clients want something special that they can feel proud to wear. From your first moment in the boutique, you are immersed in a world of opulence and luxury. Where else could you enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, or even champagne, whilst shopping for the outfit of your dreams? The versatility of Gillian’s corsets means that they have been popular with celebrities for red carpet events, brides for their special day and as a must have fashion item for hundreds of years. But at Gillian Wesley Design this classic piece is updated for a truly modern customer,

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with a choice of hundreds of different couture fabrics sent directly from Paris. What better inspiration than that of the original Parisian fashionista Coco Chanel? Gillian uses the icon’s ethos in her work, knowing that “to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.” Difference really is the foundation of Gillian’s success. Winning a design competition in the Coventry Telegraph allowed her to open her first shop, closely followed by the opening of her beautiful boutique and stylish café in Knowle, Warwickshire. Gillian Wesley is fast becoming an iconic figure herself. Her success goes a long way to highlight what a truly inspirational business woman she is. She shows her clients that they do not need to accept the impersonal and uninspiring offerings of much of the modern fashion industry. Her designs have a vivacity and freshness that surely comes from her belief in a constantly evolving fashion line. As soon as Gillian creates a new design, it is placed into the boutique ready and waiting for its new owner. Undoubtedly her discerning clients are after something unique to them and different to everything else on offer. It was her faithful customers that inspired Gillian to launch a competition to find the face of Gillian Wesley. Scouting models from an agency was not an option for the pioneering designer. She chose to look instead for a woman who was as unique as her clothes. The designer knows that the face for her creations must be a real woman, a concept all but lost in other areas of the fashion industry. The competition was open to any

woman over 18, regardless of age, shape, or size. After narrowing down contestants to just 6 women, all that remains is the selection of the final winner of the competition. Believing that every woman should own a corset, Gillian’s boutique certainly makes every woman want one. The decadent setting has hosted special music evenings and bespoke perfume design events. It seems that Gillian Wesley Design and Catwalk Café is the perfect location for exclusive and unique events of any type. Walking the red carpet in the Catwalk Café makes all the visitors feel like stars, and wearing Gillian’s designs promises her client the everlasting sparkle they deserve. The future is bright for Gillian Wesley Design, championing real women and real quality with innovative designs that are beautiful and enduring in style. It really is the only stop for bespoke quality from a working design studio and a designer that cares passionately about her thriving and inspirational business.

Gillian Wesley Design and The Catwalk Café Kenilworth Road, Knowle, West Midlands, B93 0JA

01564 779491 www.gillianwesley.co.uk

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Rainbow Delights

Prices L-R: Tantalizing Tanzanite £6750 Rubellite £2950 Sparkling Yellow Sapphires £995 Amazing Amethyst £4650 Green Tourmaline £2995 Tempting Tanzanite £19,995 Golden Citrine £1350 Citrine and Diamond Cluster £1500 Pink Tourmaline £3385 Timeless Tanzanite £1350 Green Tourmaline £4950

Lumbers Jewellers Leah Marks House, 10-12 Market Street, Leicester, LE1 6DP Telephone 0116 255 1233 www.lumbers.co.uk

Diamonds Forever

Prices L-R: Elegant Emerald Cut diamonds £29,950 Raindrop Diamonds £4650 Dewdrop Diamonds £2115 Brilliant Solitaire £29,950 Multi Raindrops £6550 Perfect Princess £23,500 Super Strands £4650 Raindrops and Roses £3595 Bloomin’ Brilliant £24,950

Lumbers Jewellers Leah Marks House, 10-12 Market Street, Leicester, LE1 6DP Telephone 0116 255 1233 www.lumbers.co.uk

The Dorchester LONDON

The Beverly Hills Hotel BEVERLY HILLS

Le Meurice PARIS

Hôtel Plaza Athénée PARIS

Hotel Principe di Savoia MILAN

Hotel Bel-Air LOS ANGELES

Coworth Park ASCOT

45 Park Lane LONDON

Le Richemond GENEVA

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

A LIFESTYLE APPROACH Here at Nutrafit, we regularly see and hear the effects of menopause on our female clients. It is often concerns of these effects that instigate new clients to contact us wanting to make positive changes to their lifestyle. Menopause can have a dramatic impact on women’s lives but nutrition and lifestyle can play an important role in easing this transitional period. Women who exercise regularly and follow a healthy diet tend to cope better with menopausal changes.

WHAT IS MENOPAUSE? Menopause is when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and menstruation ends for good. A woman has officially entered menopause on the 365th day from the date of her last menstrual period. The transition to menopause is usually gradual and involves fluctuating hormone levels and a range of symptoms for several years as the female body responds to these changes and dropping levels of natural hormones. Female hormone change actually begins during the late twenties, but doesn’t rear its ugly head until between the ages of 35 to 45 years. This is when many women start to notice changes in their bodies, minds, and feelings. Periods become irregular, the libido is low and sleep!!!! What was that again. Oh and if you’d not already noticed, your hot and when I say hot I mean irritatingly hot not Victoria Pendleton in strictly “hot”.

WHY IS LIFESTYLE SO IMPORTANT DURING MENOPAUSE Most of the symptoms that accompany menopause are primarily due to falling oestrogen levels. There are many changes that occur in the body causing many different symptoms and conditions. Most of them being short lived but some can be harmful so the more you can do to reduce symptoms the better. Lets look at the some of the more significant effects of menopause and how your lifestyle can have an effect on the severity; Hot flashes/night sweats Increased risk of Cardiovascular disease Osteoporosis; decreased bone density Emotional changes Insomnia Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the medicinal approach to controlling menopausal symptoms. HRT can be very effective but some people are often concerned about possible side effects and possible increased risks of more serious conditions such as certain cancers. The pros and cons must be carefully considered and discussed with your doctor. Many women decide to focus on nutrition and lifestyle to control symptoms instead, even with HRT this plays an important role.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO MAKE THE TRANSITION EASIER? HOT FLASHES

Hot flashes often increase before menopause, peak 2-3 years after onset, and then reduce. Stress, coffee, spicy foods, alcohol, sugar, citrus fruits, high BMI, smoking, large meals, and intense exercise. These can all increase the chances of having them. Consuming 50-100 mg/day of isoflavones (plant oestrogen’s) from food seems to be a safe amount that helps to relieve hot flashes. This would be equivalent to consuming one of the following: 1 to 1½ cups soy milk 4-5 oz tofu ½ cup edamame ¼-1/2 cup soy nuts Many women going through menopause often experience insomnia which is usually caused by other symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Regular exercise, reduced caffeine, alcohol and nicotine consumption can help you get a good nights sleep.

Nutrafit Training Studios, 40 Nelson Street, Leicester. Telephone 0116 3190778 or email info@nutrafit.co.uk or visit www.nutrafit.co.uk 26

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

EMOTIONAL CHANGES

OSTEOPOROSIS

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in postmenopausal women. Together with an increase in body fat and the onset of metabolic syndrome, the risks are even higher.

Emotional changes or mood swings, like other symptoms, are said to be caused by hormonal changes that occur within the body. Then add lack of sleep, hot sweats and day to day stresses into the equation, and it’s not surprising that menopausal women become emotional and often erratic in moods and behaviour. These hormone changes are a natural process our bodies go through that we cannot stop or prevent but the food choices you make can help to ease the effects.

Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become less dense and weak, breaking easily. From the age of about 35 there is a slow loss in bone density in both men and women. However, during menopause, reduced oestrogen levels causes an increased loss of calcium from bones (reduction in bone strength).

To greatly decrease chances of developing heart disease as you enter menopause, the check list below is important: Keep blood pressure below 120/80 mm-Hg Keep total cholesterol below 200 mg/dl Don’t smoke Manage stress as well as possible Keep your body fat in a healthy range; don’t yo-yo diet Exercise at least 5 hours each week Consume plenty of whole, plant foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds Avoid processed foods and added sugar Reduce alcohol consumption Drink tea and water Cardiovascular disease is something that you might not consider to be an immediate concern? Priority is to stop the sweats, stop the hot flushes and convince yourself your not going crazy. However the need to address it is a priority and should not be considered an after thought. The above is your check list you should consider at any point in your life and more so as you go through the menopause. This check list will not only help reduce the risk of heart disease but by eating right and keeping active many other symptoms of menopause, such as mood swings, emotional changes, hot sweats, insomnia, can be dramatically improved.

The correct intervention of food and exercise can make all the difference - healthy diet rich in nutrients to boost serotonin levels, avoiding mood crashing sugary foods, regular meals to keep energy levels up, and exercise to reduce stress levels and encourage healthier sleeping patterns.

Prevention and managing your risk for osteoporosis should be an important step you take, rather than managing it when it happens. Increase the calcium in your diet, increase the amount of weight bearing exercise to help maintain bone density, reduce alcohol consumption and quit smoking WHERE NOW? So, what is your cholesterol reading? Is your body fat in a healthy range? Exercise 5 hours a week!! (I can’t possibly fit that into my busy schedule), am I eating the right foods? The starting point is looking at your health and lifestyle and understanding the changes you need to be making. Assessing your lifestyle and implementing the changes needed for a long term health plan can be quite overwhelming and stressful but worth it in the long run. Nutrafit’s knowledge and expertise lies in exercise and nutrition at every stage in life. The unique analysis process, including metabolic analysis, health, fitness and biomechanics screening, looks at where you are today, where you need to be and works with you on implementing a health plan going forward. Using the results from the analysis your coach will then guide you through the “Does and Dont’s” of nutrition and exercise for you at this particular time of your life and make it appropriate to your current and future health plan. References - Precision Nutrition NHS

PERSONAL TRAINING  SPORTS CONDITIONING  REHABILITATION  NUTRITION  HEALTH SCREENING  METABOLIC WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC 27

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

When Vincent and Flavia CHOSE LEICESTER’S FEMI, IT WAS STRICTLY BEAUTY

FOR THE TANGO TWOSOME

The 26th of July saw Strictly Come Dancing’s Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace’s sell-out tour Midnight Tango on stage at De Montfort Hall in Leicester’s city centre. What better preparation for the evening’s sparkling entertainment than for the pair to be pampered at one of Leicester’s premier beauty salons Femi, the perfect destination for luxury and relaxation. The dancing duo benefitted from a range of indulgent treatments, all designed to help them prepare for their fantastic performance that evening. Femi offers some of Leicester’s most exclusive and exquisite packages. These range from the Relax-Head Massage and a large array of different full body massages, to essential beauty treatments. There is no doubt that Vincent and Flavia were looking and feeling on top form, ready to wow their audience at one of Leicester’s best performance venues. The salon itself is located in Leicester’s historic city centre on Highcross Street. Clients are able to choose from a wide range of exclusive treatments or select one of the specially tailored packages. The salon also offers non-surgical anti-ageing treatments such as the Pro-Lifting Firming Facial, or Micro-Dermabrasion, the celebrity favourite. The salon boasts 12 luxurious treatment rooms, relaxing areas and is perfect for group parties, as well as individual bookings. All the staff are fully qualified experts in the treatments they offer and are ready to ensure that all their clients have a fantastic experience at this impressive salon.

Femi Health & Beauty 60 Highcross Street | Leicester | LE1 4NN | Telephone 0116 253 2393 Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm

www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk 28

Isn’t it

time you got the

Dentique Smile?

At Dentique we believe that prevention is better than cure and we focus on giving patients the information they need to properly care for their mouths at home. Home care has been shown to be at least as important as professional intervention in keeping teeth for life. We offer a full range of preventive and general restorative dentistry to care for your everyday dental needs, as well as specialised cosmetic dentistry to enhance your smile. Our dental treatments are pain free and are delivered in a relaxing environment.

We warmly welcome nervous patients, and sedation techniques are available if required. :P[\H[LK PU [OL OLHY[ VM :[VUL`NH[L 3LPJLZ[LY»Z ÄULZ[ YLZPKLU[PHS area, Dentique has gained a reputation of being one of the area’s most highly regarded private dental practices. Dentique is conveniently located just off Leicester’s prestigious London Road (A6), on the corner of Knighton Grange Road. Our car park entrance is located on London Road. Just look out for our sign.

Dentique (UK) LLP, 1A Knighton Grange Road, Leicester LE2 2LF Telephone 0116 270 0550 - www.dentique.co.uk

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

AESTHETIC HEALTH with Michelle Brannan I train in a way that will shape my body to give me the look I want but also does not compromise my health... 30

The first UK athlete to earn IFBB Professional status through the Bikini Class, Michelle Brannan shares her refreshing and inspirational approach to health and fitness. Training has many benefits for me. Staying healthy, looking good physically and feeling good mentally are all important reasons to train. Training doesn’t need to be in a gym, it can be outside, at a class, with friends or walking the dog, it’s just about getting active. Dieting alone is not always effective in giving the results we hope for as in general we need a daily calorie deficit of 500 to lose on average 1lb a week. Cutting calories is often not the easiest way to do this as eliminating foods we like can often lead to cravings and binges which can be a downward spiral into emotional eating. By being active we can still enjoy a little of what we like guilt free. My approach to training and nutrition is what I call ‘aesthetic health’ this basically means looking good on the outside but also being healthy on the inside too. A very low body fat can lead to health complications in a female who tend to naturally require more essential body fat than men. Lack of or interruption to the menstrual cycle, iron deficiencies and osteoporosis are more likely to affect women on very low calorie diets as it is very difficult to get the right intake nutritionally with not enough food. I train in a way that will shape my body to give me the look I want but also does not compromise my health, by exercising we can eat a balanced diet and be healthy.

The thing for everyone who starts out training to remember is that everything is possible. I started training seriously in 2009 when I studied to become a personal trainer, I decided to give myself a goal and enter a contest. I trained for six months and entered my first contest and won! Like many women, I didn’t want to be too muscular but training with weights did not cause that, only shape and tone. It is actually extremely difficult for a woman to add a lot of muscle naturally. Now, I train because I like it, its part of my life, it keeps me fit and looking good. I also feel good. Going to the gym for me helps relieve stress and tension; I always come away feeling calmer and energised. I am very results driven so to be able to see the results of my hard work directly was great for me and also I loved the feeling of being on stage. I have become stronger not only physically but mentally too. I have learnt that with a vision, total focus and hard work you can achieve your goals.

The key to a healthy diet is balance. I don’t recommend cutting out food groups, a balance of 25% fats 40% carbohydrate and 35% protein is usually the diet I recommend making sure food choices are natural whole grain and low in saturated fat. Carbohydrate and fat are not the enemy; the things people should be looking out for to try to avoid are added sugars and saturated fats. As a rule, if you try to cook from scratch or eat naturally 80% of the time then you are on the right track. I do advocate a cheat meal weekly, this helps break the boredom of ‘dieting’ and gives you something to look forward to. I don’t see it as a ‘diet’, it is a lifestyle choice and it’s not actually boring eating fresh fruits and vegetables, grilled fish and lean meats. I believe in a calories in, calories out principle. It’s important to burn the calories you consume, so eating a well balanced diet and taking some form of daily exercise will do that. One of the biggest factors preventing more people being healthy these days is time. Many people work long hours, often juggling work and family commitments at the same time and exercise takes a back seat. The key is to try and work some kind of activity that you enjoy into your life and give it some priority. It is important to be active and stay healthy. With regards to diet, people end up eating for convenience from sandwich shops or pre-packaged foods from the supermarket. Convenience foods and deceptive advertising can make us believe we are eating healthy but if you look at the ingredient list there are many added sugars and saturated fats. I would recommend sticking to products less than 10g sugar per 100g. You will amazed at how much added sugars you will find in your average cereals, yoghurts, pre prepared soups etc. There is a bit of time needed to plan, prepare and cook meals but if done correctly healthy food doesn’t need to be bland or boring. The media today is full of ‘perfect’ looking women who are often airbrushed or very thin models that are either naturally thin or very young or simply do not eat enough. For most women, it is not realistic to be that skinny. Personally I do not believe extremely or unnaturally thin is attractive, it just seems to be promoted and people aspire to what they see in the media. I feel it would be much better to promote health and fitness which can keep you lean, slim and toned but also healthy. In other cultures curves are sexy; I think our culture should embrace that. When I say curvy I do not mean overweight, I mean a fit healthy shape.

For more information: www.michellebrannan.com michelle@michellebrannan.com

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Everybody loves a wedding Whether you decide to go for an all-singing, all-dancing fairy tale celebration or a quieter and simpler affair, at their best, weddings are a true reflection of the happy couple and their personalities and a perfect way to celebrate the commitment and love of two people with family and friends.

The wedding day is full of extra special and emotional moments. As the vows are taken and the bells clang out, as the bouquet is thrown and the cake is cut, as the band strikes up and the car clatters off with a trail of cans, we can guarantee that at some point in the day, there won’t be a dry eye in the house! Whether you choose a church wedding or a civil ceremony, a traditional white wedding or something more contemporary, there are so many options for stylish and elegant celebrations. Whatever your dream wedding, from the moment of the proposal to the sigh of relief as you check in at your honeymoon destination, every moment should be exactly as you want it. After all, these will be the memories that you will treasure for ever, that you will share with your children and that they will in turn pass on to their children. As the biggest celebration in most people’s lives, there is a lot of organisation involved in staging a wedding, from the wedding cars, the wedding dress and the all important wedding breakfast! In order to ensure there are no hitches as you get hitched, and no stress as you approach the big day, Aspirational are delighted to unveil our wedding feature, with handy tips and recommendations to help you make sure your special celebration is something you will always cherish and something that will be the perfect start to a lifetime of happiness together…

Your wedding is one of the most memorable and special days of your life and it is so important that every aspect of your day is perfect. At The Red Olive Catering Company, they believe that every wedding is unique and their carefully planned and beautifully executed menus are designed to provide the finishing touch to the most special of days. Recognised for their dedication to excellence at “The 2012 Wedding Industry Category”,The Red Olive Catering Company won the East Midlands category. This important award is much coveted by industry insiders because it is voted for by the most important voices in the marketplace: clients and customers. The catering firm offers a complete wedding hospitality package, setting them apart in the wedding marketplace. The front of house team is led by Charlie Thellusson. Highly trained by the Roux brothers at Le Gavroche when it held three stars, as well as at Hambleton Hall in Rutland Water, he is expert at ensuring that every wedding is as special as possible for his clients. east midlands

The team at The Red Olive Catering Company is comprised of two expert event co-ordinators that are on hand to make sure that every aspect of the day runs smoothly. Abi Jones and Beth Angris run through the very finest of details, making sure that they take any organisational worries away from their clients. The catering company really does promise to make every wedding as unique as possible and they have a near endless scope if imagination and ideas.

Winner

of the 2012 wedding industry

awards

The vibrant, enthusiastic and highly motivated team are on hand to make your day as special as possible with their unique and tailor-made culinary offering.

For more information please call

01332 331866

The Red Olive Catering COMPANY | Clarke Street | Derby | DE1 2BU

chef@theredolive.co.uk

www.theredolive.co.uk

MAHI MAHI SUITE

L U X U R Y H O L I DAY A C C O M M O DAT I O N

TO B AG O

N IDYLLIC BEACHSIDE CARIBBEAN RETREAT

A

luxurious Caribbean paradise offering an ultimate retreat for honeymooners, families, or up to 3 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:

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

UK contact information:

MahiMahi@TobagoBeachApartment.com or Telephone 07544 051 991 e-mail

Antonia Doyle PHOTOGRAPHY

weddings & celebrations at Village Urban Resorts

Need the right image to compliment your brochure, newsletter, magazine or website?

The wheres, the hows, the whens of your big day - nice is not an option for this blushing bride. You need a great room with spectacular facilities. You must have great rooms, great food, maybe a spa, definitely a big pool and Champagne corks-a-poppin’. The function room must have amazing potential. Prepare to tick it all off your list in one day. Now who’s a v. happy bride to be?

Wanting beautiful images of your special day? Whatever the occasion then visit: www.antoniadoylephotography.com info@antoniadoylephotography.com

07768 193849 | 01664 434097 WARREN FARM, 27 MAIN STREET, HOBY, LEICESTERSHIRE LE14 3DT

Call 0844 980 0047

Find us at Nottingham, Walsall, Solihul, Dudley and Coventry www.VillageUrbanResorts.com/weddings

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Wellington Street, Leicester LE1 6HB. Tel: 0116 2545724 Mobile: 07828 684879 Email: tinachauhanuk@yahoo.co.uk www.hairandskincentre.co.uk

Do you need help to bag that new job? Dress for the festive season? Help with your day to day wardrobe? Shake off your old wardrobe habbits? Need a winter holiday wardrobe? Do you need to dress to impress?

LEARN HOW TO PULL OUTFITS TOGETHER AND BUILD A VERSATILE WELL CO-ORDINATED WARDROBE THAT SUITS YOUR PERSONALITY AND STYLE.

Learn how to: Shop smart Dress well Avoid wasting time

Learn how to: Apply the principles of smart shopping Save money & energy Dress for your bodyshape

Mudfords more than just marquees

Apart from providing stunning marquees, Mudfords are also able to create the same beautiful designs within permanent venues, such as barns, sports halls, rooms within the home and large exhibition spaces, etc etc. This option is great either for extending into your venue from connecting marquee or simply as an alternative.

Fabulous finishing touches Even if you’ve got the event covered, Mudford can provide bespoke interior design options to bring your rooms to life. Selecting options from our exceptional ranges of furniture, furnishings and finishes we’ll work with you to provide the complete solution to your design desires. In the unlikely event that we don’t stock something you need, don’t worry - we soon will! We can transform any old barn or building into a welcoming venue with linings, lighting and furnishings. The transformations that can be achieved are truly amazing! George Mudford and Sons have been supplying high quality marquees and interiors since 1832, we are now able to offer the same service within permanent venues, transforming a plain space into your ideal party, wedding or corporate venue. Allowing you to create your own unique background and add your individual touch to your event. Mudford venue decor services cover everything you can dream of, from tables and chairs, to luxury seating areas to chill out and relax under one of our starlit roof liners.

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

Event design by Wellpleased Events

Below is a simple list of just some of the items held in our extensive marquee facility. Free your imagination, let us know what you want and we will create the perfect venue. Š Y~w ˆ yÂ…ÂŒ{ˆ‰ Š mw‚‚ w„z y{ ‚ „} zˆw†{‰ Š j~{ƒ{z †w „Š{z …ˆ zˆw†{z starlit backdrops (star cloths) Š Xw„‡‹{Š „} Šwx‚{‰ (various sizes) Š Y‹ˆŒ{z Š…† Šwx‚{ Š Xwˆˆ {ˆ ˆ…†{‰ w„z †…‰Š‰ Š Xw‚‹‰Šˆwz{ ‰{yŠ …„‰ Â? Š~ matching urns and pillars

Š Xw„‡‹{Š „} y~w ˆ‰ Š Z{y…ˆwŠ ÂŒ{ †‚ „Š~‰ Š b{z |w ˆÂ? ‚ }~Š‰B ܠ ‚ }~Š{ˆ‰ Š Y~w„z{‚ {ˆ‰ Š `wˆz „ ˆ{‰ Š iÂ…|w‰ Š Xw„‡‹{ŠŠ{‰ w„z ƒwŠy~ „} accessories Š Xwˆ‰ Š Zw„y{ ÂŁÂ…Â…ÂˆÂ‰ w„z ƒ‹y~ ƒ…ˆ{

Any size of order catering from 10 – 10,000 guests.

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

THE LACE MARKET HOTEL & MERCHANTS RESTAURANT As the country’s most central region, the East Midlands has always been at the forefront of culture and trade. For years, the region provided the beating heart of the nation’s most important industries. Its canals and rivers were the life blood of Britain, taking the region’s many different exports to the rest of the country.

At Aspirational Magazine, we are proud of our region’s legacy and we think it’s equally important to remember our history, bringing it up to date in new and innovative ways. Nottingham’s Lace Market Hotel, from The Finesse Collection, is flying the flag for the importance of remembering the East Midlands’ fascinating story. The hotel, named after Nottingham’s iconic lace market, has been looking to the past, finding inspiration for a new interior that will revitalise Merchant’s Restaurant. Merchant’s Restaurant is housed within the hotel, and has always embraced the best of Nottinghamshire. Head chef Dean Crews is passionate about creating his beautiful dishes from locally sourced produce and constantly strives to select only the very best ingredients from the immediate area. He knows that the region has some of the country’s best local food suppliers and he is always looking for new ways to showcase the region’s culinary offering. With Merchant’s Restaurant taking its name from the lace merchants that operated in the city’s thriving lace market during the 19th Century, the hotel and restaurant are steeped in history and now the hotel is looking forward to sharing hotel’s origins with its guests. With a fantastic new refurbishment, the restaurant itself promises an elegant yet relaxed dining environment. Taking on a vibrant design that gives the dining room a bistro feel and peaceful atmosphere, guests can enjoy Dean Crews’ innovative dishes in surroundings that complement his delicious food

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perfectly. The restaurant is embracing the fantastic resources that the area has and utilises some of Nottingham’s most exciting up-and-coming artistic talent. The walls of the restaurant will be newly adorned with specially commissioned photographic images taken by a young local artist, providing diners with a visual feast to accompany their exquisite meal. Diners will be able to relax in the beautiful new dining room, its relaxed feel and softened appearance will accommodate diners in the rejuvenated space, bringing a modern twist to one of Nottingham’s most historically interesting areas. The award winning culinary creations of Dean Crews promise to be all the more delicious when enjoyed within the restaurant’s beautiful new interior. The Lace Market Hotel will continue to offer the popular Saint Bar, the ideal location to enjoy pre dinner cocktails or late night martinis in glamorous surroundings. The Cock & Hoop pub continues to be the best of a classic country pub in the city, offering traditional and delicious pub staples. A quintessentially British gastro pub, the Cock & Hoop is yet another way for guests to relax and enjoy the best of Nottingham. A mix of old and new really has inspired the changes at the Lace Market Hotel. At its industrial peak, the lace industry provided Nottingham with its main source of economic stability. The hotel was delighted to have obtained a range of original photographs, taken at the early part of the 20th century. The photographs will adorn the walls of the hotel’s opulent reception, welcoming guests with a taste of the region’s fascinating past.

The Lace Market Hotel is so proud of its local region, celebrating both its amazing historic legacy and present day contribution to Britain’s cultural landscape. Nottingham’s lace market quarter may have once held a thriving trade centre for the region’s most successful export, but now the area is more than equipped for today’s crowds. With bars, cafés, shops and restaurants, the Lace Market Hotel and Merchant’s Restaurant continue to support the area as a centre for Nottingham trade. The hotel is continuing to welcome guests to the city’s historic area so that they can enjoy its modern day offering. For the Lace Market Hotel, history is something that should be shared with as many people as possible. They are proud of the region’s heritage and the fascinating story of their immediate surroundings. The Lace Market Hotel and Merchant’s Restaurant are thrilled to welcome their guests to the rejuvenated hotel. For more information on all the hotel has to offer, including seasonal events and the Merchant’s Restaurant menu visit: www.thefinessecollection.com

For Hotel inquiries call:

0115 852 3232 or email:

stay@lacemarkethotel.co.uk For Merchant’s Restaurant reservations, call:

0115 852 3232

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For Her

Prices L-R: Tag Heuer Link £3995 Ebel Classic £1095 Bulgari-Bulgari £5650 Chopard Happy Sport £3220 Breitling Galactic £4390 Gucci Bamboo £650 Longines St Imier £2220

Lumbers Jewellers Leah Marks House, 10-12 Market Street, Leicester, LE1 6DP Telephone 0116 255 1233 www.lumbers.co.uk

For Him

Prices L-R: Tag Heuer Link Calibre S £2995 MontBlanc Timewalker £2055 Breitling Unitime £8460 Chopard Mille Miglia £4870 Breguet Marine Alarm £33,800 Breitling for Bentley Super Sport £7720 Tag Heuer Grand Carrera Calibre 38 £7150

Lumbers Jewellers Leah Marks House, 10-12 Market Street, Leicester, LE1 6DP Telephone 0116 255 1233 www.lumbers.co.uk

TH E PERF E CT E VE N T

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY

MEETINGS & EVENTS

Enjoy the very best in award-winning sporting Matchday Hospitality

Why not compliment your matchday experience with a meeting or event at Leicester City Football Club?

at the home of Leicester City Football Club with our excellent range of VIP Hospitality packages. From match sponsorship opportunities, well known guest restaurants in Fusions overlooking the magnificent King Power Stadium pitch, the new Banks Bar & Grill to the new Fosse Bistro – a VIP Matchday at Leicester City is the perfect way to entertain colleagues, clients, family and friends. Matchday dining packages, all offering first class service and delicious food in our improved hospitality areas, start from as little as £39.95!

Aspirational Magazine Exclusive Promotion: Receive a 10% Discount off our ‘Guest Restaurant in Fusions’ matchday hospitality packages by quoting ‘Aspirational 1’.

King Power Stadium boasts nine flexible meeting suites holding up to 550 delegates, all incorporating free wi-fi, air conditioning and natural daylight - with 400 free car parking spaces making it the perfect choice for your next event.

Aspirational Magazine Exclusive Promotion: Receive a 10% Discount off Day Delegate meetings during November 2012 through to February 2013 (minimum of ten people - bookings must be made in November & December 2012) by quoting ‘Aspirational 2’. Still haven’t booked this year’s Christmas Party? Take inspiration: www.lcfcevents.co.uk/christmas

To find out more and discuss the right package for you please call:

To find out more or to arrange a personal viewing call: 0844 815 5000

0844 815 5000 email: sales@lcfc.co.uk or visit www.lcfc.com/hospitality

email venuesales@lcfc.co.uk or please visit www.lcfcevents.co.uk

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

The HEART of the ACTION

With sensational hospitality opportunities, the high voltage exhilaration of the action on the pitch isn’t the only reason to get excited about a visit to Welford Road, home of the Leicester Tigers.

The 1880 Club is the closest you can get to being a member of the Tigers team, dissecting the exciting match with the players themselves. This is also an ideal opportunity to network with influential business leaders and fellow 1880 Club members.

The atmosphere at Welford Road is quite simply one of the greatest experiences in British sport. On match day, it’s as if the whole city growls its support. The crowd gathers in the stadium, the players gear up for the action-packed drama of another exciting fixture... there’s no better place to be in Leicester.

Other fabulous hospitality includes the Tigers’ VIP hospitality packages, which include premium gold level seating, reserved car parking, a complimentary pre-match bar, a four course silver service dinner, visits from first team players and a post-match afternoon tea. Executive Boxes at Welford Road provide a more private viewing experience, with a fully equipped TV, private balcony and licensed bar. Fantastic catering options are also available in the Goldsmiths Stand.

With sensational success on the pitch, and truly world-class hospitality off the pitch, Leicester Tigers offer some of the very best hospitality in Britain. Welford Road boasts the spectacular 1880 Club, an exclusive seasonal venue with limited membership for both individuals and corporations. What better way to entertain your clients? From the moment you arrive at Welford Road, the VIP treatment begins. As a member of the 1880 Club, you really are treated as a privileged guest, guaranteed sensational service, exceptional hospitality and a truly memorable experience. The sensational hospitality includes food of the highest quality in the 1880 club restaurant, a complimentary bar service and a special guest speaker from the world of rugby. Your own, or your company’s name will be credited on a plaque in the lounge, as well as on the 1880 Club’s premium luxuriously padded seats located near the halfway and 10m lines. Ideally positioned to watch the Tigers’ action unfold, 1880 Club members always benefit from best seats in the house. Members are perfectly positioned for every Castro charge, speedy dash by Geordan Murphy, Manu Tuilagi try and every stunning Toby Flood conversion kick, ensuring they see the very best of the match. After the match, 1880 Club members are invited to return to the private suite to enjoy further hospitality, where players, directors and coaching staff are also present after the game. 43

For a truly once in a lifetime hospitality package, you can’t do better than the Man of the Match experience. Dining in the exclusive Legends lounge, you are joined by players, coaches and directors, having enjoyed premium reserved padded seats on the halfway line. While watching the match, you have the exclusive opportunity to select the Man of the Match, and this player will join you after the game.

1880 Club, Leicester Tigers, Aylestone Road, Leicester, LE2 7TR Phone: 0844 856 1880 Email: tigers@tigers.co.uk www.leicestertigers.com

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

All rise for

Sir Ian Eighties sporting icon, the most loved all-round cricketer ever, tireless charity fundraiser and family man. Sir Ian Botham OBE shows us that our British talent can have many faces.

If you were around in the Eighties you will, of course, remember Ian Botham snatching victory from the Australian side in the 1981 Ashes. You will remember that he played some of the most inspired cricket that the sport has ever seen. You may also remember his legendary ability to celebrate. Some thirty years on, we know that he is an enduring icon of British sport. These days we have seen him advocating breakfast cereal, or quality British meat. He appears regularly as a Sky Sports commentator and has walked 10,000 miles for charity. Botham is, at 56, not out. In fact, he’ll be sticking around for quite some time. Botham was propelled to national and international recognition because of his cricketing prowess. His amazing feats on the field came at a time of national crisis and he truly was the nation’s hero. With miner’s strikes, recession and riots the country needed something to celebrate and Botham certainly delivered. Botham’s talent on the cricket pitch really is legendary. He is famous around the world for his amazing performances, bringing games back from the brink to secure and England win. Sir Ian’s philosophy has always been to live life to the full, refusing to compromise and always defending his choices by demonstrating amazing skill on the cricket pitch.

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By the end of his on-field career, Botham had scored over 5000 test runs and taken 383 wickets, holding the world record for a time and remains England’s top wicket taker. His style was fierce, fighting to the bitter end of the match and securing wins for the English side. Recognising his own relentless attack during play he said “I don’t know any other way to play sport. I don’t know any other way of doing anything to be honest. Get out there and fight.” Whether a fight for a home side win, or a fight for life Botham has always been on the front line. He was named in the Queen’s Birthday honours list and knighted in 2007. For many, his amazing sporting career would have been enough to secure the honour of being ‘Sir Ian’, but he was also named for his outstanding charitable contributions. Sir Ian ‘Beefy’ Botham campaigns tirelessly for the charity Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, raising vast amounts of money with the goal of finding the cure for childhood blood cancers. He has walked an amazing 10,000 miles over the past fifteen years and often raised £25,000 a week for the charity. In 1977, Botham was in hospital receiving treatment for a broken toe, when a chance wrong turn brought him to a children’s ward. Inspired after seeing a group of terminally ill children playing, all suffering from Leukaemia, Beefy began his campaign that has spanned thirty five years. A campaign with the tagline “I won’t stop walking until we’ve beaten blood cancer” has Botham written all over it and it is testament to his all-or-nothing attitude that the £10 million raised over the course of the campaign’s history means that the chances of surviving Leukaemia have dramatically risen from 20% to 80%. The money raised has funded vital research, forming a part of Sir Ian’s amazing legacy. It seems hard to believe that the former world class cricket star would have time for anything else, but he continues his involvement with the nation’s cricketing story as a commentator for Sky Sports. Whatever the result for the current England side, Botham is always met with adoring recognition the world over. His unbelievable form is obviously difficult to forget and for those after his time, his ability to turn a match around in an afternoon has become the stuff of legends.

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Little wonder that he is an ambassador for the Jaguar Academy of Sport, Nike and Shredded Wheat. Botham’s ability to provide an enigmatic personality keeps him on our television screens and in the hearts of cricket and sports fans alike. So it may be hard to believe that this once bull-like competitor only ever plays cricket in the garden with his grandchildren. It seems that they are less than impressed with his style and he has joked that they have asked if he was ever good at cricket. His answer should be that he was excellent, but as Beefy throws his grandchildren a few balls he seems more than happy to leave his active England career in the past, remembering it fondly and focussing on his new pursuits.

Sir Ian ‘Beefy’ Botham campaigns tirelessly for the charity Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research These days, Sir Ian is happy to indulge in his favourite hobbies: golf, travel, fly-fishing and wine. He even launched his own wine label (perhaps a touch of the old competitiveness) entering the market place with business partner and former fast bowler Bob Willis. Both cricketers are heavily involved with every stage of the process, and the label is certainly no celebrity gimmick. Botham’s cricket tours have allowed him the opportunity to try both New and Old World wines, honing his taste and expertise. The label combines the passion of Botham and Willis with the knowledge and reputation of Geoff Merrill to become Botham Merrill Willis. The wine label has been built on friendship and joint enthusiasm, producing wines that are welcome on many a dinner table. Sir Ian Botham does what he likes and likes what he does. He always has and we can only hope that he always will. Botham represents the most exciting of British talent, sometimes a contradiction, mostly unpredictable but always with dogged determination to be the very best. What more could we ask from the much loved Beefy? He is pure British quality.

Images, clockwise from top: 20 April 2005, Sir Ian Botham teaches Sri Lankan schoolboys the art of fast bowling at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. Botham recreates the trek of Hannibal across the Alps mountain range with elephants to raise funds for Leukaemia Research on 30th March 1988 in Perpignan, France. 10 October 2007, England and Somerset cricket legend Sir Ian Botham after he received his knighthood. November 1986, Ian Botham of England hooks the ball for another boundary on his way to 138 against Australia in the First Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, Australia.

“We have a gaping hole in the England side because Ian Botham has gone. People say Chris Lewis will take his place and I always say, ‘What, on the bus to the ground?’” – Fred Trueman. –

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

aura

A special all of its own

Nestling on a stretch of coastline that is home to some of Scotland’s most legendary golf courses, Archerfield Links is a haven of tranquillity, luxury and relaxation.

FLETCHER’S COTTAGE SPA ARCHERFIELD HOUSE

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Archerfield is one of those special and rare places where everything is exactly as it should be. As you pull into the Archerfield estate, past the sweeping golf courses, the majestic Archerfield House and the beautiful wooded estate, the first thing you notice is the special atmosphere of serenity and welcome. It’s as if the fresh East Lothian air and the pine trees themselves put you instantly at ease. Whether you visit Archerfield to indulge in the spa, entertain friends and clients in the unrivalled facilities, or experience the excitement and sheer quality of the golf, Archerfield is a spellbinding place in a magnificent location.

Members of Archerfield Links become accustomed to perfection, and the spa is no exception. The newest addition to the club’s world class luxury facilities, Fletcher’s Cottage Spa offers a truly relaxing experience in total harmony with the peerless natural beauty of its surroundings. Developed with sound ethical and environmental principles at its core, the spa offers an invigorating thermal spa, Rasul mud cure, a salt healing room, private bath huts and luxurious treatment rooms. A few steps away from the spa, there’s also a gymnasium featuring Technogym equipment and personal trainers, then you can reward yourself

with a glass of champagne in the walled garden or a hot toddy in the relaxation room. Breathing in the pine scented coastal air and listening to the crackle of the log burning stove, Fletcher’s Cottage is the definition of profound relaxation and blissful pampering.

The courses reflect the character of the surroundings, turning the natural pine forests and wind-swept coastal soil into features of these special courses. Founded on land where golf has been played for over 100 years, Dirleton Links is a vigorous expression of links golf in Scotland: challenging, adventurous, menacing and, most of all, spectacularly good fun.

with a focus on supremely high quality service, Archerfield is somewhere where members always feel not only at ease, but at home.

authentic tour experience in a uniquely relaxing environment. The TPEGS is a collaboration between Ryder Cup player and European Tour Professional Andrew Coltart and European Tour Coach Gary Nicol, using state of the art technology and coaches at the very top of the game to improve ball striking, sharpen up short game skills, and improve your course management or mental skills.

Uniquely well situated for business travellers, and luxury globe trotters alike, the club is just 40 minutes from Edinburgh International Airport, and yet it benefits from the luxurious tranquillity of the East Lothian coastline, offering stunning views across to Fidra Lighthouse. The same combination of serenity and convenience is reflected in the Archerfield service: quiet and attentive, welcoming and casual, you’re every need will be looked after by the friendly Archerfield staff. The Clubhouse offers exactly the right balance of casual style and elegance. A fully stocked professional’s shop, a menu of classic dishes and comfortable chairs to kick back and relax in, there’s always a quiet corner to relax in or a convivial table to discuss the day’s golf. Archerfield is the antithesis of a stuffy golf club. Revolving around its members,

The Archerfield Estate is a special place, blessed with a romantic aura all its own and a rich and fascinating history, encapsulated by the enchanting grandeur and elegance of the house itself. The perfect setting for a special event or a business get together, Archerfield’s unique atmosphere will be exactly what you need. The 15 luxuriously decorated double bedrooms all have extensive en suite bathrooms and full access to a stunning principal room, rotunda, snooker room and a splendid dining room. The 450-acre estate is sparingly peppered with secluded individually designed and beautifully decorated properties, including the waterfront Marine Villa and Boathouse, the cocooned Lodges and the serene Pavilions. Members are encouraged to feel at home, bring guests, and of course, play as much golf as they like. If you feel as if you need to hone your skills before heading on to the fast-paced links, the Tour Pro Experience Golf School - TPEGS – provides an

Both golf courses at Archerfield are designed by former European Tour player and highly respected course architect David J. Russell, who has designed two masterpiece courses that offer as sublime a challenge as its renowned and ancient neighbours, Muirfield and North Berwick West Links.

One of the best ways to experience everything that Archerfield can offer is a residential membership, allowing for six nights in a 3 or 4 bedroom lodge and 12 rounds of golf on one of the spectacular courses or spa treatments in Fletcher’s Cottage. The cost of residential membership is £2950 inclusive of VAT. The nights can be used consecutively or non-consecutively, meaning you can enjoy them, like everything at Archerfield, in your own time. To enquire about Residential Membership at Archerfield, or staying in any of the properties, contact Alan Murray on 01620 897 050 or alan@archerfieldgolfclub.com

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

E T A M U LT I Concert Experience

With fantastic food, the biggest stars, and high quality luxury seats, amplify offer superlative hospitality packages at Birmingham’s LG Arena and NIA.

Conveniently parking your car and slipping past the crowds to enter the concert venue through a private entrance, you can feel the atmosphere building in anticipation of one of the biggest acts in music taking to the stage. The band have sound-checked and super-fans are fully-laden with merchandise which they’re desperate to have signed. It’s time for you to sit down in the hospitality suite to entertain your guests with delicious food from the restaurant and drinks from the complimentary bar, before being ushered to the best seats in the house as the band strikes up for a truly unforgettable experience…

country including Hampton Court Palace, amplify have built a reputation as quite simply the best concert hospitality in the business. Providing a truly unique concert experience in sensational stress-free luxury, amplify is the definition of stylish contemporary hospitality.

amplify offer four levels of hospitality, Freestyle, Club, Air, and the brand new Club Plus, all of which guarantee fantastic seats and exceptional levels of service. Freestyle hospitality packages provide informal dining, a private bar facility, and convenient car parking, making for a truly out of the ordinary hospitality experience. With over 20 years experience of delivering hospitality services at Birmingham’s LG Arena, NIA and other prestigious venues around the

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Sign up for Club membership to enjoy discounts on Club hospitality, priority booking, a private entrance, and an intimate pre-show dining

experience. Air membership is a truly premium hospitality service, which has become known as the hottest and most sought after ticket in entertainment. Air provides the opportunity to enjoy exclusive pre-show dinner at the amplify restaurant, a stunning and relaxed dining experience with world class food. The pre-show fine dining experience includes dishes such as Swordfish Steak with Black Bean and Mango Salsa and Rib Eye Steak with Field Mushroom and Bearnaise Sauce.

With Air’s limited membership base now sold out, amplify have introduced a brand new and exclusive membership tier of Club Plus. Offering discounted rates on Club hospitality, the bespoke Club Plus membership package includes a complimentary bar, and an

0844 338 0333 info@amplify.co.uk www.amplify.co.uk

opportunity to gain access to the Air restaurant on a first come first served basis following show releases. Offering exclusive access to sample the benefits of both Club and Air memberships, Club Plus also acts as a waiting list for the highly sought after and exclusive Air membership, which provides guaranteed allocations of ‘showdeck’ seating and all inclusive dining for each and every show.

All tiers of amplify membership offer truly breathtaking entertainment and hospitality at its very best. At the NIA, the amplify Showcubes are another premium way to enjoy your favourite shows, with magnificent, panoramic views over the arena and the ultimate in luxury amenities. Each Showcube accommodates up to 14 guests, and guests can enjoy exclusive

pre-show supper before taking balcony view seats, conveniently located directly outside the Showcube. What truly makes amplify the best hospitality on the market, however, is not only the standard of the food, drinks and customer service on offer at the arenas. It is also the sheer brilliance of the entertainment itself. The LG Arena and the NIA attract the biggest stars in the world for concerts, to a degree almost unrivalled by any other UK venue. There is truly something amazing to satisfy every musical appetite. From Lionel Ritchie and George Michael to Cheryl Cole and Justin Bieber and from One Direction to Andrea Bocelli and Noel Gallagher, amplify hospitality is available at the biggest and best concerts in Birmingham.

It isn’t simply music fans who can benefit from the outstanding hospitality on offer from amplify. Other fantastic events at the LG Arena and the NIA include comedy from stadium-packing stand-up superstars Michael McIntyre, John Bishop and Eddie Izzard alongside other events including Soccer Saturday Live, Crufts and many more.

With as much attention to detail given to every aspect of the sensational hospitality as the entertainment itself, amplify are superstars of the hospitality industry. Next time you see your ultimate musical hero in action on stage, why not treat yourself and your guests to a luxury hospitality experience to match the world class entertainment?

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

McCartney

MANIA 2012 has been another Great British year for the McCartneys. Sir Paul was heralded as the musical equivalent of Shakespeare, and his daughter Stella flies the flag for enduring British style. Both were part of the London Olympics, and here we celebrate the best of British talent.

In 1957, as a member of The Beatles, Paul McCartney began a career that would cement his reputation as one of the most iconic Brits of all time. Over fifty years later, it’s been a true love affair, its highs and lows well documented through the British media. But what is it about the McCartneys that has made them stand the test of time? Probably because they’re British, they’re ours and they’re really rather good at what they do. It’s not just a musical legacy that will leave Paul McCartney’s name on the pages of history, but it’s a good start. Listed in the Guinness World Records as the most successful musician and composer of all time, he has written or co-written 27 number one hits. Despite speculation and controversy surrounding Lennon-McCartney authorship rows, McCartney’s musical influence filled the charts of the second half of the 20th century. In 2012, celebrating his 70th birthday, the superstar shows no sign of slowing down. The McCartney name has become synonymous with this year’s British spectacle, the Olympic Games. Not only did McCartney join in the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations with a five song set to close the concert on June 4, he then performed as an integral part of Danny Boyle’s spectacular Opening Ceremony on 27 July. Not bad for a musician dismissed by Noel Gallagher as having “only produced manure for the past 25 years.” Admittedly, he is no longer producing hit after hit with mind-blowing speed,

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but who can blame him? His set list for the Jubilee concert and the Olympics undeniably proved that the old ones really are the best, with rousing renditions of “Hey Jude” never failing to provoke a powerful emotional reaction. But Sir Paul does not stand alone in flying the flag for British talent. His children were modestly brought up in North London by McCartney and his late wife Linda. They attended a comprehensive school and thrived on it. Perhaps most celebrated of the McCartney children is Stella. A stand-out talent in her own right as a designer, no one could accuse her of using her celebrity roots to fast track to the top. Graduating from Central Saint-Martins in 1993, and heading Paris based label Chloé two years later, it is her own creative drive and artistic passion that has fuelled her enduring success. Celebrating her 40th birthday this year, she has been given the role of creative director for Adidas and designed the kit for our Olympic team. The athletes themselves have described their new kit as having the ‘wow factor’, and it certainly answers Chris Hoy’s brief of “just [wanting] to look cool.” In the true McCartney style, the kit’s unveiling in March of this year sparked controversy and backlash from the public and critics alike. Stella describes her design for the 590 piece collection as being “untraditionally British”, and wanting to celebrate “one of the most iconic flags in the world.

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Images, clockwise from top; Sir Paul McCartney performing at the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony; Olympic triple jumper Phillip Idowu, (left) Stella McCartney (centre) and Heptathlete Jessica Ennis (right); McCartney performing at Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations; Nancy McCartney, (left) Paul McCartney (centre) and Stella McCartney (right); The Beatles

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Some of the initial public reaction was to bemoan the lack of red. There was concern that it played down the ‘English’ aspect of the flag, but the athletes’ reaction was overwhelmingly positive. The kit itself is the right amount of understatement, refined and as a whole, beautifully cohesive. Is this not itself characteristically McCartney, and indeed British? With Sir Paul having provided a rousing end to the Olympic opening in July, and Stella’s creations running around the track, you would think that would be the McCartney name firmly tied to that of this year’s Olympic Games. Not quite. McCartney’s other daughter, Mary was also to be involved. Following in Linda’s footsteps as a photographer, she provided a photographic addition to an outdoor exhibition to celebrate this year’s highest profile sporting event. The Photographer’s Gallery has initiated ‘The World in London’ to celebrate the games, with 203 separate images of Londoners, all with different nationalities. Mary added her image to this, a subtle but no less important contribution than that of her father and sister, reminding us of what the Games are really all about. As the British team and the British public united to fight for gold medals, the McCartneys remain together and strong as they continue to fly the flag for our country’s success stories. Outside of their Olympic commitments, this year saw Paul celebrate his third marriage to New York heiress Nancy Shevell. In characteristically modest style, the couple married at Marylebone Registry Office, celebrating their nuptials in their north London home, surrounded by friends and family. The wedding was similar to McCartney’s first, to his wife Linda. It is thought that he paid tribute to her in his wedding speech.

Little was said of his second marriage to Heather Mills, a lavish ceremony in Ireland in 2002. A marriage that he has openly admitted to being one of his “worst mistakes.” Stella herself designed Nancy’s beautiful wedding gown and so obviously gave the bride her seal of approval. All in all, quite a year for the British institution that is the McCartney family. They represent the hard work and tenacity that has made our country great. Weathering media storms and also enjoying the occasional, but heartfelt, recognitions of their important contribution to our culture has made their name last over half a century, and long may it continue.

if its good enough for the Queen, then it’s certainly good enough for us

As we celebrated sporting and cultural success this summer in a fantastically staged and resoundingly supported Olympics, we are lucky to be able to celebrate the addition of truly great Brits, like Sir Paul and his family are. Ever present and ever memorable, they really are a family to aspire to, their work is inspirational and heartfelt. And after everything, if its good enough for the Queen, then it’s certainly good enough for us.

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Bespoke England provides the finest quality, English-made, handcrafted leather shoes along with a range of complementary products for the discerning gentleman. Offering each of their customers an extraordinarily high level of personal service, Bespoke-England has its beautiful and elegant shop in the small market town of Uppingham. They stock English shoe brand Gaziano & Girling, who are quickly becoming internationally renowned as makers of the finest shoes in England and possibly the world. Having opened 2 years ago the fabulous shop has a spectacular array of handcrafted shoes making Bespoke England the perfect place to find a special Christmas present for friends or family this winter. You only have to see these wonderful shoes to appreciate the skills of the makers. Nick the owner advises to call him or email in advance to check the opening times although the website is available to view any time www.bespoke-england.co.uk

Contact: 07501 000567

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01572 822288

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

The talented

Mr Ridley SIR RIDLEY SCOTT, King of the Blockbuster. From Z-cars to the furthest reaches of the universe and everything in between, Sir Ridley Scott has done it all. The South-Shields native really is the King of the big screen.

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Hollywood director and British institution Ridley Scott really has made a ‘substantial contribution to the British Film Industry’. Knighted in 2003 for precisely this reason, he has given the film industry more blockbusters than any other director of his generation. His artistic vision seems boundless, and his work is characterised by stunning visuals and strong individual characters. Some of the most iconic images of cinema were conceived in his mind. Who could forget Thelma and Louise’s iconic dive off the cliff edge, or the alien bursting out of a man’s chest? His more recent films have scoured the history books. Gladiator in 2000 topped his own personal record for his highest grossing film at the box office.

everyone was talking about it. At times it seemed that Sir Ridley was being purposefully vague about the link between the film and his previous work Alien (1979) and it is still unclear if it is definitely a prequel to the classic sci-fi of the seventies. This new film sees a team travelling out to the furthest reaches of the galaxy searching for the origins of mankind. No small task, and there are some rather difficult complications along the way. The film also taps into Scott’s own musings on the question behind the film. He has said that he believes it ridiculous to assume that Earth holds the only life forms in the galaxy.

The much awaited Prometheus launched in June to mixed reviews, but there was one constant: everyone was talking about it.

With more than a few projects in production for the upcoming year and beyond, and Prometheus taking cinemas by storm throughout the summer of 2012, Scott sums it up: “I used to agonise over what to do next, but now I make a movie a year.” A simple philosophy, however he also recognises the problems with the over-hyped film market, deploring the loss of ‘art’ in Hollywood. For Ridley Scott, his artistic vision drives his need to produce movies, not to fulfil box office quotas and financial targets. He has gone as far to say that only “three per cent” of movies produced now are any good. This is, of course, only his opinion. It’s well known that an artistic vision is rarely a shared one amongst competitors.

Whatever the driving force behind mankind, it’s doubtful that Scott has much spare time to ponder the secret to our existence.

The much awaited Prometheus launched in June to mixed reviews, but there was one constant:

The 74 year old maintains a strict routine that sees him working from six every morning, spending hours

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on the phone with London or LA, depending where he is in the world. It’s clear that it would take a lot to shake his drive to outdo his competitors and there is no sign of him slowing down yet. He describes himself as a natural born competitor and has tried his hand at television, starting his career with the BBC’s Z-cars. He also ran an advertising organisation with his brother Tony Scott making some of the most influential television commercials of the nineteen sixties and seventies. Clearly Scott is fascinated by his work and he is closely involved with every part. Sometimes accused of being more interested in the set than the actors themselves, he dismisses this as nonsense. Repeatedly his films show his cast at their best. Think back to Sigourney Weaver in Alien for example. His close working relationship with Russell Crowe spanned the first decade of this century with Gladiator (2000), A Good Year (2006), American Gangster (2007), Body of Lies (2008) and Robin Hood (2010) all hits in quick succession. Their relationship has been turbulent, but clearly this gave them the fire to create such memorable movies together. Gladiator alone scooped five Oscars, including Best Leading Actor for Crowe and Best Picture overall. For Scott is a man enthralled by dominant historical figures, the knight or the cowboy, gangster or gladiator. He has become an icon of our time, a knight himself and his crusade seems set on making the best Blockbusters for a long time to come.

FILMOGRAPHY 1977 The Duellists 1979 Alien 1982 Blade Runner 1985 Legend 1987 Someone to Watch Over Me 1989 Black Rain 1991 Thelma & Louise 1992 1492: Conquest of Paradise 1996 White Squall 1997 G.I. Jane 2000 Gladiator 2001 Hannibal 2001 Black Hawk Down 2003 Matchstick Men 2005 Kingdom of Heaven 2006 A Good Year 2007 American Gangster 2008 Body of Lies 2010 Robin Hood 2012 Prometheus

Images, clockwise from top; Scott’s 1979 blockbuster ‘Alien’ Yaphet Kotto, (right) Sigourney Weaver (centre) and Ian Holm (left); Scott’s classice‘Thelma and Louise’(1991) Ridley Scott and cast: Michael Madsen, Sigourney Weaver and Greena Davies; Gladiator (2000) Connie Nielsen and Joaquin Pheonix ; Cast and director, Ridley Scott at Prometheus premiere (left to right) Guy Pearce, Michael Fassbender, Charlize Theron, Noomi Rapace, Ridley Scott, Logan Marshall-Green, Rafe Spall.

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Magnificent country properties and estates have always been the perfect backdrop to lavish and exquisite celebrations. Stapleford Park in Leicestershire provides an opportunity to continue the tradition in style by celebrating your special occasion at one of Britain’s most elegant and prestigious country house hotels. Life is punctuated by memorable occasions: birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, christenings, or simply a celebratory gathering with family and friends. For the next special occasion in your life, why not choose to celebrate the event at a venue frequented by royalty throughout its history, a truly special place that remains true to English country house life: the epitome of warmth, welcome and style. As a romantic venue for celebrations, Stapleford Park is quite simply the best choice of location. It’s easy to see why The Independent recently voted Stapleford Park as one of the country’s Top 50 wedding venues in the country. In the heart of the rolling Leicestershire countryside, the house itself is one of the finest buildings in the area, a classic

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of English architecture, the stone structure is luxuriously clad in ivy and set within sensational grounds, landscaped by Capability Brown. It isn’t just the house and the grounds that make Stapleford Park an ideal venue for when you really want to celebrate. It is also the exquisite hospitality and the warm welcome that you receive from the moment you arrive. From the instant you and your party enter the house, you are treated as an extra special guests. If it’s cold outside, you will be invited to take a seat by the fire in the relaxing lounge room and enjoy a coffee or a warming drink. If it is warmer weather, why not take a seat in the stylish terrace and courtyard at the side of the exquisite house and admire the beautiful surrounding gardens.

As a romantic venue for celebrations, Stapleford Park is quite simply the best choice of location.

The accommodation on offer at Stapleford Park comprises of 55 individually designed bedrooms, each one with its very own personality. The luxury accommodation includes the David Hicks bedroom, with its barrel shaped ceiling, and the Lady Gretton suite where guests step back in time to the elegant style of late Victorian England. Others include the Osborne & Little suite, Crabtree & Evelyn room or the exotic Zoffany Suite. You and your guests are guaranteed to be spoilt for choice in these beautifully designed rooms where the only constant is comfort!

This supreme standard is maintained with the sublime dining options on offer for special occasion banquets and other specially designed menus for your celebration. Whether you are looking for a lavish buffet or a sensational 5 course banquet, the talented chefs at Stapleford Park showcase exquisite East Midlands produce in locally sourced fish, meat and vegetable dishes. To serve alongside your meal, Stapleford Park is able to offer an award winning list of expertly selected wines for banqueting. The team at Stapleford Park can also help to assist with organising the event, making the most of the house and its grounds.

Exclusive Parties For a truly spectacular party or event, Stapleford Park invite you to exclusively use the house for you and your guests, whether for a corporate or private function. Making use of all 48 individually designed bedrooms in the Main House, you will be able to settle in and relax in the most sublime comfort as you enjoy all the facilities including complimentary Wi-Fi, complimentary newspaper

and the legendary Stapleford Park Breakfast the following morning. A dedicated member of staff will look after all of your requirements during your event at Stapleford Park. All dining rooms in the Main House, including our fine dining restaurant, Grinling Gibbons can also be offered exclusively for your party.

To make your occasion extra special, why not incorporate some traditional British field sports like clay pigeon shooting, falconry or archery for a simply sublime way to spend an afternoon in the luxury style of time-honoured English country life? If an afternoon of exquisite pampering is more your style, the award winning Clarins Gold Spa in the converted Victorian stable block offers one of the most enjoyable spa experiences in the UK, which resulted in it being nominated in the Good Spa Awards 2012. Whether it’s an 80th birthday party or the Christening of a new born child, Stapleford Park is the perfect choice for a memorable special occasion. Unique, stylish and romantic, it really is the place for a marvellous party.

Whether as a hotel guest or as a member, Stapleford Park is a magnificent and elegant house with exquisite service which gives its visitors the quintessentially English experience of a spectacular country house estate. For further information, please contact: Stapleford Park, Stapleford, nr. Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2EF Telephone: 01572 787 000 Email: information@stapleford.co.uk or visit www.staplefordpark.com

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In 1943, Westye F. Bakke built the first freestanding freezer in the basement of his Madison, Wisconsin home. Since then, Sub-Zero & Wolf have become two of the most recognised and coveted brands in the world, with over 200 retailers in the UK, including one right here in Leicestershire.

As one of the most established appliance brands on the market, there was no better location to showcase Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances than the luxury interior design showroom, Plug-In Design in Leicester. Covering 750 square feet of space, this superb setting is an ideal place to appreciate properly, Sub-Zero & Wolf’s cutting-edge design and state-of-the-art technology. As the innovators of food preservation, Sub-Zero have developed a unique ‘Air Purification’ system in their Built-In refrigerator line which removes harmful gases and odours; a process that was developed initially for NASA to aid food preservation. Additionally, the Dual Compressor system, standard on all Sub-Zero fridge/freezers, is a completely unique feature to Sub-Zero. Wolf’s Dual Convection electric oven system, a function exclusive to the brand, provides superior coverage eliminating uneven and inconsistent heating and reducing cooking time. The patented dual stacked burners on the gas cooktops also offer unrivalled temperature control and precision, ideal for melting butter or chocolate on a low heat or high temperature cooking. With superior performance and leading-edge design, Wolf appliances fuel a passion for cooking. With over 50 years experience developing the most sought-after appliances on the market, Sub-Zero & Wolf have naturally become the appliance brand of choice for the world’s leading chefs, who all share the same passion for appliances that offer precision and performance to rival a

professional kitchen. These chefs include Shaun Rankin, Galton Blackiston, Aldo Zilli, Thomasina Miers and Simon Rimmer; as well as celebrity chef clients Gordon Ramsay, Michel Roux Junior and Gary Rhodes. Sub-Zero & Wolf’s history dates back to 1945 when Westye Bakke, a businessman with the keen ability to anticipate postWorld War II refrigeration trends, founded Sub-Zero Freezer Company in 1945 in an old two-car garage. In the mid-1950s the company developed the first built-in refrigerator – a unit that changed the future of kitchen design by fitting within surrounding counter and cabinet space. The Wolf Range Company was established in 1934 in East Los Angeles by two brothers, Al and Hyman Wolf. Born in the professional kitchen, and refined through more than 70 years of demanding commercial use, Wolf was a company dedicated to cooking and the perfect fit for Sub-Zero, who acquired them in 2000. Sub-Zero’s launch of the new Wolf brand and the 50 new models specifically designed for the home was highly ambitious. Wolf’s mission has been to continue Sub-Zero’s legacy of high standards for quality and design; every product bearing the Wolf name, from built-in ovens and gas cooktops to dual fuel ranges, is designed from the ground up to give the user ultimate control and cooking confidence. Each new Wolf instrument is tested to exceed industry standards and each is backed by one of the best warranties available.

Through the decades, Sub-Zero & Wolf has offered innovative, contemporary and technologically advanced solutions to meet virtually any home appliance need. Through foresight and responsiveness, the company has earned its position as an industry leader. At Sub-Zero & Wolf, each product is developed with a focused attention to ergonomics, ease of use and functionality for the best possible user experience. Form and design are truly an integral part of Sub-Zero & Wolf’s wide product offering. From clean lines ideal for contemporary kitchens to the more robust professional stainless steel look, Sub-Zero and Wolf make dream kitchens possible and together form a natural partnership, offering state of the art kitchen innovation and providing unbeatable performance and reliability.

Plug in Design TM

For further information on Plug in Design, please visit the studio at 20 South Churchgate, Leicester, LE1 3AE or call

+44 (0)116 262 4440 or send an email to info@plug-indesign.com

www.plug-indesign.com Follow Plug In Design on

The Pastures, Woodhouse An outstanding eight bedroomed detached country residence of breathtaking quality and size situated amongst approximately five and a half acres of gardens on the edge of this desirable Charnwood Forest village with outstanding views to the rear. Extending to over 17,000 sq ft, the property features two self-contained two bedroom apartments, a magnificent galleried reception hall, and a spectacular indoor leisure complex including a large swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, twelve seat steam room, gym area and games/party room. Lavishly appointed with bespoke kitchen, bathroom and dressing room fittings by Philip Dowse Interiors, the property has been substantially constructed with fine attention to detail including stonework and a graduated tiled roof. With heated garaging for six cars with further gardeners garage, design features include solid Oak flooring with underfloor heating throughout, en-suite dressing rooms, walk-in wardrobes and bathrooms to the four principal bedrooms, solid Brazilian Mahogany double glazing and deep moulded cornicings throughout.

Price on application

Bawdon Castle Farm, Woodhouse Eaves An outstanding country residence occupying a breathtaking hilltop location, arguably the finest in Charnwood Forest. With outstanding panoramic views over the whole Forest towards Leicester, towards The Beacon and over the Soar Valley towards Nottingham. This impressive country home offers extensive accommodation with a superb indoor leisure complex and 8,300 sq ft of barns and outbuildings ideal for a large private car collection or a home business. Situated within approximately 21.5 acres of magnificent landscaped garden grounds and paddocks, the property features a superb galleried drawing room, magnificent reception hall, a luxury re-fitted kitchen and four bathrooms, and five principal bedrooms, all with outstanding panoramic views. Ideal for those with equestrian interests, hobbies or wishing to run a business from home, this is the first time the property has been available to buy since built in 1993 and therefore it represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Charnwood Forest’s finest country homes.

Price on application

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

Price on application

The White House, Swithland An outstanding restored and extended Grade II Listed property of exceptional style and quality offering five bedrooms, five bathrooms/shower rooms, cinema, swimming pool and magnificent gardens, and a substantial brand new stone built double garage with a store room above. With a fully integrated audio/visual system throughout, a superb 25’9” x 24’8” living/dining kitchen, separate guest annex and five reception rooms, this stunning property is situated in one of Charnwood Forest’s most desirable villages and demands internal inspection to appreciate the quality of the interior and stunning landscaped grounds.

£995,000 SOLD

Swithland Lane, Rothley

£1,395,000

The Dower House, Wymeswold

£795,000

Situated within extensive gardens of approximately 1.34 acres, possibly the largest plot on Swithland Lane.

This substantial period home with superb gardens and tennis court enjoys a highly sought after central position within the village.

This unique and substantial detached family home offering a wealth of original features including a magnificent galleried reception room, open fronted fireplaces, oak panelling, stained glass leaded windows and oak block flooring etc. Featuring five/six reception rooms plus a superb full size first floor oak panelled billiards room, the property also offers five bedrooms, two bathrooms and two separate WC’s. The magnificent setting affords delightful gardens and in addition the property occupies a secluded setting set back from Swithland Lane with ‘in-out’ private drive and outstanding gardens to views towards Charnwood Forest.

Standing in over half an acre this Grade II listed family home with range of brick outbuildings is believed to date back over 300 years. Enlarged over the centuries the property features a blend of Georgian grandeur with high ceilings, multi-paned windows and beamed ceilings. The property with vaulted cellars offers accommodation to include a large drawing room, two further reception rooms, farmhouse style breakfast kitchen with Aga, five double bedrooms, en-suite bathroom, family bathroom, newly fitted wet room and large first floor games room 29’5” x 14’9”. The property is well presented throughout and represents a unique and exciting opportunity.

Bawdon Cottage Farm, Ulverscroft

Chestnut Barn, Woodhouse

£750,000

Occupying a spectacular location within the prestigious heart of Charnwood Forest. A rare opportunity to acquire an immaculately presented detached property with separate cottage and a substantial range of barns and outbuildings within approximately 8.3 acres of outstanding landscaped gardens and paddocks. Enjoying an impressive electric gated approach, the property offers three reception rooms, including a large brick conservatory, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and oak fitted kitchen with granite work tops. The cottage having a dining kitchen, shower room and bedroom. With considerable potential for further accommodation in the barns and outbuildings and with a further large detached double garage with electric doors, the property offers oil fired central heating, sealed unit double glazing and sophisticated alarm system. The property is sold subject to an agricultural tie and all fitted carpets, curtains and light fittings are included.

£750,000 SOLD

Situated opposite the village Church and demanding internal inspection - a stunning five/six bedroom converted barn of exceptional size and quality featuring a 55’5” x 15’7”. Superb kitchen and garden room by deVol, four large reception rooms, three en-suites and family bathroom in limestone with contemporary suites. With many design features including limestone dressed arches, arched windows and doors, the property will also be provided with a detached double garage behind an electric gated approach and would ideally suite a growing family or purchasers down sizing but requiring excellent guest accommodation.

Ashby De La Zouch

£675,000

A quite outstanding stylish four storey family home of breathtaking design & quality ideal for family living and entertaining/offering the highest quality of kitchen and bathroom fittings.

Western Park, Leicester

£450,000

This stunning period home built c.1830 with large gardens enjoys a prime position within Western Park which has been awarded a Green Flag.

Numerous design features include a full height central atrium style opening through the centre of the building. With views to front and rear, good sized garden and double garaging, the property demands inspection to appreciate the breathtaking attention to detail and style of the interior. The quality of finish and design would grace the pages of any top quality homes magazine. Viewing is thoroughly recommended.

The grand entrance hall provides access to two large reception rooms, a lavishly appointed breakfast kitchen with oak cabinets and granite work surfacing, bar area, utility and shower room. On the first floor is a large galleried landing, four good sized bedrooms and a luxury bathroom. The property benefits gas fired central heating, hardstanding for numerous vehicles, double car port and summerhouse. The large plot is fully enclosed with ornate railings with panoramic views out over Western Park. Adjoining The Pavilion is a self contained GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT ideal for teenager or dependent relative available by separate negotiation.

Dale Farm Cottage, Great Dalby

The Nook, Wysall

£349,500

This Grade II listed character property has been extensively refurbished in recent years and is presented in a contemporary style. With many period features including beamed ceiling, latch doors and sliding windows - offering spacious accommodation to include a superb breakfast kitchen with heavily beamed ceiling, utility, dining room, 22’5” x 15’9” sitting room, study, rear hall and cloaks WC, four bedrooms (two having en-suites shower rooms) and family bathroom. The property benefits from newly fitted gas central heating system and outside there is off-road parking, large garage and courtyard style lawned gardens. Great Dalby is a sought after village situated just off the A607 between Melton Mowbray and Leicester and early viewing is strongly recommended.

Offers over £200,000

Situated within this highly desirable conservation village - a rare opportunity to acquire a delightful detached Grade II Listed three bedroom period character cottage dating back to 1718 requiring general modernisation. Offering a delightful private rear garden, enclosed by hedge, brick/stone walling and timber panelled fencing and a range of useful outbuildings, plans have been submitted for a sizeable extension. Offering three reception rooms together with a breakfast kitchen, the property offers a wealth of original features including heavily beamed ceilings and inglenook fire place. In addition to which is a good sized driveway providing hardstanding and ample space for a garage/car port, subject to the necessary consents/approvals.

by Moir Wade Design

When I bought a house in Notting Hill last year, I needed the kitchen to reflect the enchantment and prestige of this iconic neighbourhood. I had a definite picture in my mind from films and magazines of what I wanted it to be and I put my trust in Moir Wade Design to make my vision a reality. Elegant and practical, the kitchen Moir Wade created is everything I could have wished for and more. The sheer craftsmanship of the furniture is breathtaking! Jonathan and Will managed every aspect of the project, working around my busy schedule to ensure the installation met all my requirements, and exceeded my expectations.

William Roache MBE

If you would like to receive a free brochure, please call 0116 269 5915 or visit our website at www.moirwade.co.uk Moir Wade Design Ltd., Nelson Street, Syston, Leicestershire LE7 2JQ - 0116 269 5915

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE AMBIENCE Leicester’s only four star boutique hotel, Hotel Maiyango has rapidly become a must-visit destination for the East Midlands’ most stylish individuals.

The greatest hotels and restaurants in the world all have one thing in common: a distinctive and unique character that makes them truly special. Leicester’s Hotel Maiyango is certainly no exception. The vision of hotelier Aatin Anadkat, from the moment you enter from the busy streets surrounding St Nicholas Place and Highcross, you are instantly struck by the charisma and flair of the enchanting and eye-catching design features everywhere you look. From the stunning art on display around the hotel to one of the best bars in Britain, this isn’t just style; it’s panache. One of the most distinctive and unforgettable aspects of the hotel is The Glass Bar, with floor to ceiling windows and a terrace, providing stunning views of the High Street below, which is dramatic and atmospheric whether the rain is battering the streets below or it’s blazing sunshine. Safely ensconced in the warmth of an irresistibly comfortable armchair, what better place to escape the weather for some solace and a quiet glass of champagne?

ENJOY A SPECIAL 20% OFF MAIYANGO CHRISTMAS HAMPERS Exclusively for Aspirational Readers Just quote ‘Aspirational’ at the time of ordering.

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

The individually designed bedrooms are decorated and furnished in exquisite taste, with every convenience you could dream of, whether you are staying in the hotel for business or leisure. All rooms feature beautiful, bespoke handmade furniture, luxurious Egyptian cotton bed linen, goose down duvets and pillows, and serene contemporary bathrooms with either walk in showers or deep bath tubs, rain showers, Cowshed toiletries, and the warmest and fluffiest robes and slippers. As with so much at Maiyango, it’s the attention to detail that makes the hotel so special, and it’s the same in the bedrooms. Extra treats include complimentary WIFI access, 42 inch plasma TVs and DVD players with access to a good DVD library and 24 hour room service and of course a fantastic continental breakfast with freshly squeezed juices, intense, hot, strong arabica coffee and a great selection of local produce breakfast items sourced from Leicestershire’s impressive natural larder. Since opening, the restaurant at Hotel Maiyango has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting gourmet experiences in the midlands. Serving fabulous dishes made from seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, chef Phillip Sharpe’s cooking has as much character and style as the hotel itself. Meat is carefully selected from Leicestershire butcher Joseph Morris, while vegetables are sourced from the Saffron Lane Community Allotment.

Dishes change with the seasons, but include such treats as seared king scallops with thai spiced mussels and coconut and cashew salad, a trio of tagine spiced lamb with tomato couscous and a roasted breast of gressingham duck with sweat and sour plum jus. So renowned has Phillip’s cooking become, that when the Queen visited Leicester for her jubilee tour, it was the Maiyango team she requested to cook for her in a special event at St Martins House. The hotel and restaurant’s designers have thought of everything, guaranteeing that Maiyango functions perfectly as a place for relaxation, intimate gatherings of friends and larger celebrations alike. Pitch-perfect contemporary music in the bar and restaurant is ideal to create an atmosphere but falls effortlessly into the background when you’re enjoying a conversation over a cocktail. If you want to learn to recreate some of the magic of Phillip Sharpe in the kitchen or the sensational creations of the bar’s expert mixologists, the cocktail and cookery schools at Hotel Maiyango are both great fun and instructional. Underneath the hotel and around the corner from the restaurant is Maiyango Kitchen Deli, an innovative and quirky concept that offers a range of products made in the Maiyango kitchens using Leicestershire ingredients. The Kitchen Deli is quite simply a heaven for foodies: from homemade jams and chutneys, an array of Maiyango’s artisan breads and delectable patisserie including tarts, croissants and pastries, right through to the freshest salad boxes, pasta dishes and sandwiches for lunch. The Kitchen Deli fits around your busy schedule, allowing you to eat great, fresh, lovingly produced food even when you’re on the go, whether you are working or shopping! They also happen to serve arguably the best cup of coffee anywhere in Leicester, and a restorative glass of freshly squeezed and blended juices for that health boost! From the smallest details to stunning architectural features, Hotel Maiyango is the perfect boutique hotel, getting everything right in every department. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, an unforgettable meal, simply a cocktail or a venue for that extra special party, situated right in the heart of Leicester, Hotel Maiyango has a knock out ambience that wins every time.

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FINE DINING GUIDE

GINO’S RESTAURANT & WINE BAR Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire

Gino’s Pear Tree in Leicestershire’s Woodhouse Eaves is the creation of the Albiniano family. The restaurant was opened by Gino, and his legacy is now owned and managed by his three sons, Gianni, Ricardo and Marco Albiniano. The family are all involved with the restaurant, giving their diners a taste of Italian authenticity. Surrounded by the beautiful National Forest, Gino’s Pear Tree offers the opportunity to be transported to Italy and indulge in quintessential Italian cuisine. Sample the delicious wines in their dedicated wine bar or enjoy the alfresco dining area that transforms the already beautiful Woodhouse Eaves into an Italian idyll. The restaurant and newly opened wine bar allow their visitors the best of Italian flavours in beautiful and relaxing surroundings. The restaurant offers an exciting lunch menu and an à la carte selection for evening diners, serving up the best of Italian flavours throughout the day. With the addition of the wine bar this year, the Albiniano family is able to offer diner’s drinks and tapas dishes from the early evening onwards, giving their clients something a little bit different in a relaxing, exclusive and chic environment. The restaurant offers its diners a selection of delicious champagnes, including Bollinger, Dom Pérignon, Laurent Perrier and Veuve Clicquot. The restaurant still offers all the same innovative and mouth-watering dishes from chefs Gianni and Marco and diners spend the evening enjoying the ultimate in authentic Italian gastronomy. Head Chef Gianni Albiniano offers his diners award winning and innovative Italian cuisine. His delicious creations can be enjoyed in the restaurant or in the alfresco dining area.

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The new heated alfresco dining space provides an almost year round space that increases the size of the restaurant’s dining room, or is able to accommodate larger parties. Gino’s Pear Tree will also be launching a series of ‘wine flights’. Rest assured, diners will be staying on the ground, but their taste buds will be transported to new heights. These special evenings offer diners the chance to sample the chef’s wonderful dishes accompanied by a selection of specially chosen wines that provide the perfect accompaniment to each course. Next March will bring Gino’s Pear Tree their first annual trip to the Planeta Estate in Sicily. A select group of six couples will have the enviable task of journeying to the estate to help sample new, exquisite wines from the estate’s selections, as well as a visit to a historic olive oil estate. The coming months will see the restaurant open a new private dining space above the main restaurant. Providing an intimate space for smaller parties or couples, the private dining room will also be available for group party bookings who want to have their own dining room to celebrate their special occasion. Food Served: Monday to Saturday 12pm - 3pm and 6pm - 9pm Sunday 12pm - 3pm, please call for Sunday dinner reservations Gino’s Pear Tree 8 Church Hill, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire, LE12 8RT For more details about the Gino’s Pear Tree trip to Sicily, or information about the restaurant itself please call (01509) 890 243 or visit the website: www.ginospeartree.net

HART’S

CHINO LATINO

City Centre, Nottingham

City Centre, Nottingham

MERCHANTS RESTAURANT LACE MARKET HOTEL City Centre, Nottingham

Ǧ The city’s most successful up-market eatery Ǧ A peaceful, contemporary city central hotel Ǧ Private parties for up to 100 guests in Hart’s Upstairs

Pan Asian restaurant, Chino Latino, is giving guests the chance to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with the unique restaurant and bar’s ‘One Night in Bangkok’. Offering a bespoke fusion between pan-Asian flavours, a Latin vibe, multi award winning cuisine and music from the restaurant’s club DJ. The chefs have created a special Thai street food menu for the evening that will allow diners to welcome in the New Year with the very best flavours. The evening will take place in the eleventh floor Vista Suite at the Park Plaza. With stunning panoramic views over the city, it really is one of the best locations in the East Midlands to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. The four course menu has something for everyone, from an appetizer of delicious prawn crackers, to a Thai street platter, a variety of Thai dishes served on a platter. The Chino Latino ‘One Night in Bangkok’ has the ideal recipe for a magical event: irresistible flavours, wonderful music and an evening to remember. For those who love the atmosphere of the Chino Latino restaurant, they can celebrate New Year’s Eve in ground floor restaurant at the Park Plaza. Priced at £65.00 per person, diners will enjoy a special menu that brings fine dining to the fantastic Pan-Asian flavours. Overnight accommodation is available at the Park Plaza itself, including a New Year’s Day Brunch and 2.00pm late checkout. Alternatively, you can sample fine dining at Chino Latino on New Year’s Eve, priced at £65 per person (based on two people sharing), call for more information.

As one of the finest restaurants in Nottingham, Merchants Restaurant at The Lace Market Hotel offers modern British food that is locally sourced and seasonal. The hotel itself is situated in the historic lace market quarter of Nottingham and the restaurant is ideally located in the city centre for its many visitors. The restaurant boasts innovative and elegant food that is perfectly accompanied by the understated but attentive service. The restaurant has been awarded two AA rosettes and the kitchen is led by creative head chef Dean Crews. The head chef is driven by creating modern classics from local and seasonal produce. The sophisticated offering from Merchants Restaurant is matched by the beautiful dining room, designed by the architect David Collins, having also created interiors for Marco Pierre White. Diners feel truly relaxed and pampered in the opulent surrounding of the former Georgian town house that houses The Lace Market Hotel and Merchants Restaurant. The restaurant has a dedicated following of customers who come from all over the region to sample the delights from Dean Crews’ award winning kitchen. The restaurant offers variety of different dining options, from a prix fixe menu to seasonal food events and an exciting tasting menu.

Food Served: Lunch 12.00pm - 2.00pm Dinner (Monday to Saturday) 7.00pm - 10.30pm Dinner (Sunday) 7.00pm - 9.00pm Pre-theatre supper 6.00pm

Arrival: from 7.00pm Dinner served: 8.00pm Carriages: 2.00am £49 per person, or £79 per person including unlimited house drinks (house beer, wine, spirits and mixers)

Food Served: Tuesday to Thursday 7.00pm - 9.30pm Friday and Saturday 6.00pm - 10.00pm

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

Chino Latino 41 Maid Marian Way, Nottingham, NG1 6GD Tel: 0115 9477 444 www.chinolatino.eu

Merchants Restaurant 29-31 High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HE Tel: 0115 852 3232 www.thefinessecollection.com

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ASPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

PERKINS

THE GRIFFIN

FIVE

Nottingham

Plumtree, Nottinghamshire

Cultural Quarter, Leicester

Perkins has twice been named the Good Food Guide’s East Midlands Restaurants of the Year for good reason. Set in the rolling Nottinghamshire countryside, just ten minutes from Nottingham city centre, Perkins is committed to locality, seasonality and responsibility.

The idyllic country pub epitomises the very best of traditional country dining, with high quality, delicious food in the Nottinghamshire village of Plumtree. Under new ownership but maintaining the same friendly and inviting atmosphere, The Griffin promises a wonderful meal, whether for a special occasion or an indulgent evening dining out.

Situated in the heart of Leicester’s ever developing Cultural Quarter, Five takes its diners on a culinary journey through the amazing flavours of Thai cuisine. The restaurant has been inspired by the five crucial elements used in creating the perfectly harmonious and balanced dishes that are synonymous with Thai cookery. The combination of spicy, sweet, sour, salty and bitter must be balanced perfectly for an authentic flavour and this authenticity is mirrored by the experienced Thai staff and award winning head chef.

Head Chef Sarah Newham leads a talented, innovative kitchen using ingredients sourced from the outstanding regional butchers and bakers, farmers and dairies that surround Perkins’ rural idyll. The restaurant recently celebrated thirty years serving its loyal local diners, so there’s never been a better time to sample what’s on offer at the beautiful former Plumtree railway building. Perkins’ Prix Fixe Menu, Sunday lunches and Saturday morning breakfasts are particularly special. The restaurant’s Prix Fixe is excellent value, often including wonderful slow braised beef from nearby Clipston-on-the Wolds, Belvoir game and, in the true spirit of locality, gravadlax cured at the restaurant’s own Smokehouse just 100 yards from one’s plate. For Perkins wine list, the comparison couldn’t be more stark: owner Jon Perkins works hard to reflect the most diverse international offering possible.

Easy to find as the village’s only pub, The Griffin offers something for everyone. Its Sunday roasts are a real treat and the dedicated children’s menu means that everyone will be happy. With a variety of dishes that encompass traditional pub food, to daily specials, you are guaranteed a delightful meal in lovely surroundings. The village of Plumtree is the perfect location for a drink or a relaxing meal. With great food and a traditional atmosphere outside of the city, it is easy to see why so many choose The Griffin for a family meal, evening out or special occasion. The Griffin really does offer a unique experience for all and offers different seasonal menus, making the best of great British produce on offer, all year round.

The beautiful restaurant provides lavish surroundings, reflecting the delicious dishes on Five’s exciting and diverse menu. Despite finding inspiration in the food of Thailand, the Five team always strive to create their dishes with locally sourced produce, offering a mouth-watering core menu and an ever changing selection of seasonal dishes. With both lunch and dinner menus on offer, there are so many amazing dishes to choose from. Five offers a diverse and on trend drinks menu to accompany the food so diners can sample delicious aperitifs or try out the stylish cocktails. The menu includes a range of delicious Thai dishes that represent the very best of Thai cuisine, all in the beautiful surroundings of the restaurant’s exquisite dining room. Five also offers a beautiful space, available for private hire. Wittily called Five Below, the exclusive space is available free of charge for private dinning or parties, corporate events or as a lovely space for diners to relax either before or after their meal.

Every Saturday morning between 10 and 11.30am, Perkins opens up for the perfect start to the weekend: think newspapers, fresh coffee, locally-sourced and freshlycooked sausages, bacon, eggs, tomatoes et al while Sunday lunches are hearty, family and friendly affairs featuring pork, beef, chickens and vegetables sourced within ten miles of the kitchen. If you have something special to celebrate, or just fancy a much needed get-together, Perkins’ Old Waiting Room is ideal, housing up to thirty guests. If your party is even larger, Perkins’ Carriage Hall can hold 200 party, or wedding, guests.

Food Served: Monday - Saturday ALL DAY from 12pm Sunday - 12 - 5pm (last order 3.30pm) Breakfast: served on Saturday Mornings. À la carte: Every day EXCEPT SUNDAY

Food Served: Monday to Saturday 12.00pm - 2.00pm and 5.30pm - 9.00pm Sunday 12.00pm - 8.00pm

Food Served: Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm Express business lunch service Wednesday to Friday

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

The Griffin Main Road, Plumtree, Nottingham, NG12 5NB Tel: 0115 937 5743 www.thegriffinplumtree.co.uk

Five - Thai Restaurant & Bar 80 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB Tel: 0116 253 9155 www.fivethai.co.uk

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HOTEL MAIYANGO

LE CHEF PATRON

FIRENZE

City Centre, Leicester

Thurlaston, Leicester

Kibworth Beauchamp, Leicestershire

Leicester’s renowned gourmet style destination, Hotel Maiyango has become one of the Midlands’ most in-demand tables thanks to its winning combination of spectacular atmosphere and truly magical food. Hotel Maiyango is the epitome of warmth and welcome, the perfect place to escape to on a chilly evening to experience the comfort and intimate hospitality that has set it apart from the crowd.

A friendly welcome is guaranteed at one of Leicestershire’s best-loved restaurants, Chef Patron, housed in a 17th Century Inn opposite a Norman Church in the picturesque village of Thurlaston. Chef Patron is renowned for providing the ideal combination of the very finest in creative country cooking with a Modern British-European style.

For over a decade, Firenze has been creating some of Leicestershire’s most delicious and exciting Italian food. Firenze is Italian cuisine at its very finest, nestled in the beautiful village of Kibworth Beauchamp. Combining traditional Italian techniques and flavours with their exquisite style, the dining experience proves to be every bit as magical as the beautiful city that the restaurant takes its name from.

Award-winning head chef Phil Sharpe and his team are dedicated to using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create their vibrant and creative cuisine, taking inspiration from his travels around the world and this Autumn/Winter season will be no different. Our sneak preview of the planned menus for the festive period look incredibly appetising and as you would expect, there is no traditional turkey option in sight! Maiyango is hosting a range of Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve events alongside the restaurant offering. The hotel will host the sophisticated ‘New York, New York’ for up to 70 guests a night whilst the sixties, hippy chic, ‘Hard Days Night’ event for up to 150 guests will take place at St Martins House. Both events are available to book in the run up to Christmas and on New Year’s Eve which will certainly offer a fantastic option for the more discerning.

The exceptional lunch and dinner menus include exceptional seafood offerings such as Lobster and Crayfish Terrine with lime and chilli jus, magnificent game dishes such as Wood Pigeon, and the very best locally sourced meats, including succulent Pork Loin with Calvados and delicious Fillet Mignon Forestiere. For a truly sensational experience, why not try their unique traditional Sunday Lunch, served on a carving trolley, and expertly carved at the table? Chef Patron also specialises in weddings, family occasions, private parties, corporate functions and conferences.

The restaurant’s owners Lino and Sarah Poli head the fantastic service and food on offer. With years of experiences in Michelin starred restaurants, they have created a dining experience that goes far beyond many others. Firenze has been called one of the ‘finest’ Italian restaurants outside of Italy by the Financial Times and its menu really is quite exceptional. From the most delicious pasta dishes to innovative and mouth-watering main courses, Firenze offers some of the most delectable tastes of Italy. With a selection of stunning deserts to end your meal on an ultimate high note, Firenze continues to deliver one of the most indulgent and enjoyable dining experiences in Leicestershire.

This leaves the restaurant, the candlelit jewel in Leicester, the mecca for Leicester foodies. Whether it is a small booking for 2 or a larger group of 30, be it for lunch, dinner or the 7 course dining experience on New Year’s Eve, the recommendation is to book fast to be certain of a table, avoid driving so that you can sample the cocktails and make it a night to remember!

Food Served: Mon – Sat 12:30pm – 3:00pm, 6:30pm-9:30pm Sunday 6pm-9pm. Open for cocktails and drinks till late 7 days a week.

Hotel Maiyango 13-21 St Nicholas Place, Leicester, LE1 4LD Tel: 0116 251 88 98 www.maiyango.com

Food Served: Lunch and dinner - Tuesday to Saturday Closed Sunday and Monday

Chef Patron 22 Church Street, Thurlaston, Leicester LE9 7TA Tel: 01455 888227 www.chefpatron.ltd.uk

Firenze Restaurant 9 Station Street, Kibworth Beauchamp, Leicestershire, LE8 0LN Tel: 0116 279 6260 www.firenze.co.uk

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FINE DINING GUIDE

THE HAMMER & PINCERS

HAMBLETON HALL

Wymeswold, Leicestershire

Hambleton, Rutland

OPULENCE RESTAURANT CATHEDRAL QUARTER HOTEL Derby

This cosy and comfortable restaurant has been named as one of the favourite places to eat in Leicestershire, as its charming aesthetics and staff create not only a welcoming atmosphere, but deliver fantastic food.

Hotel & Restaurant Spectacular surroundings A warm welcome ‘Dining Heaven!’ Harden’s Guide 2012 Supremely comfortable & stylish rooms

Sourcing all ingredients locally, The Hammer & Pincers offer honest, straight forward food that is all prepared and cooked under their very own roof. With experience cooking in countries such as Switzerland and France, their European inuence is incorporated into their menu with dishes such as Pigeon, Smoked Salmon and even Toad in the Hole.

Opulence restaurant at Derby’s Cathedral Quarter Hotel offers diners a taste of modern British cuisine that is locally sourced and always as seasonal as possible. The restaurant recently hosted a three course meal for HRH Her Majesty the Queen; it really has received the royal seal of approval. The restaurant’s head chef Dean Crews was personally thanked by the Queen for the exquisite meal he created for the occasion. The restaurant is situated in the heart of Derby’s historic cathedral quarter and frequently charms diners with its sweeping staircase and original stained glass windows and many other original features. Boasting excellent service and delicious food, Opulence Restaurant is one of the Midlands key destinations for top quality dining.

Professionalism oozes from the very dĂŠcor of the restaurant to the picture perfect presentation of the food and standards are elevated even further with the well thought out selections of wine.

Offering champagne breakfasts, afternoon tea, a prix ďŹ xe menu and Ă la carte menu, diners have a variety of options to choose from at Opulence Restaurant, all beautifully presented, delicious and showcasing a creative twist on great British gastronomic style.

If you are searching for an enchanting restaurant, with delicious food, look no further. The Hammer & Pincers delivers top quality food, leaving only the taste of satisfaction on your pallet.

Opulence Restaurant truly lives up to its name, delivering exquisite food, a perfect ambiance and located conveniently in central Derby.

Food Served: Tuesday to Thursday: Afternoon Tea QN QN Ǩ %JOOFS QN QN Food Served: Tuesday to Saturday 12.00pm - 2.00pm and 6.00pm - 9.30pm Sunday 12.00pm - 4.00pm. Closed Monday

New A La Carte Menu 3 Courses for ÂŁ65.00 approx. 6 choices for each course, including Coffee & Chocolates

Friday to Saturday: Afternoon Tea QN QN Ǩ %JOOFS QN QN

The Hammer & Pincers 5 East Road, Wymeswold, Loughborough, LE12 6ST Tel: 01509 880 735 www.hammerandpincers.co.uk

Hambleton Hall Hambleton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8TH Tel: (01572) 756 991 www.hambletonhall.com

Opulence Restaurant Cathedral Quarter Hotel, 16 St Mary’s Gate, Derby, DE1 3JR Tel: 01332 546 080 www.theďŹ nessecollection.com

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ARTS AND CULTURE

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Vintage Years In the constant Pursuit of Excellence since 1981, Howard Charles Domney and nd Christopher Mitchell Pacey have supplied exquisite hand crafted wines for discerning wine lovers, whatever their tastes and occasion. In 32 years as Independent Fine :LQH LPSRUWHUV &KDUOHV 0LWFKHOO :LQHV KDYH VRXUFHG WKH YHU\ ÀQHVW ZLQHV SDVVLRQDWHO\ crafted by the most dedicated growers from Europe and the New World.

Richard, Chris and Howard were delighted to visit the vineyards of Loire and Bordeaux. The trip started with a quick hop over to Pouilly FumĂŠ in the ‘CMW private jet’ where they tasted the ‘new CuvĂŠe Plaisir’ from their exclusive grower Dominique Paboit. “This is the ďŹ nest Loire I’ve tasted in 30 yearsâ€? quoted Howard. After ying to Bordeaux the next day they visited the vineyards of St. Emilion and Pomerol stopping off at Chateau Angelus to sample the superb 09 vintage. They then travelled to Margaux to their great friend and wine maker, FrĂŠdĂŠric Valentin. His wines are sexy and gorgeous with endless layers of fruit.

OFFER EXCLUSIVE TIONAL PIRA TO ALL AS READERS! LE OF FREE BOTT U GRAND CR NE WITH CHAMPAG ER* EVERY ORD

dering nal� when or E “Aspiratio T O U Q SE PLEA *Subject to availability and while stocks last last.

For details of all of Charles Mitchell Wines’ fabulous new range of award-winning winter wines and a full listing, or to arrange a private tasting, contact Richard on: Tel: 0161 775 1626 | Email: richard@cmwines.com | Web: www.cmwines.com 84

Howard of CMWines

Heat Holders Table

Chris of CMWines with Elaine & Malcolm Wilson OBE

Tutored Wine Tasting & Gourmet Dinner Mere Court Hotel, Cheshire Wine Grower Louis Schroeder with Chris

27th - 28th September 2012

Wine Lovers Julie, Marna & Linda

Richard, Chris and Howard were delighted to invite their clients to the ultimate fine wine experience at the Mere Court Hotel in Cheshire. Customers old and new experienced a tutored fine wine tasting with their exclusive producers from Argentina, New Zealand and Spain, followed by a sumptuous four course dinner, with each course being accompanied by wine from their new award-winning autumn range.

Howard with Soprano, Claire Egan

The finale of each event was a truly mesmerising performance by the multi-award winning international opera soprano Claire Egan.

Cheshire Someliers Table

To see more images from this event, visit Charles Mitchell Wines’ website: www.cmwines.com To book a tasting or discuss other fantastic gourmet events contact Richard on 0161 775 1626 – email richard@cmwines.com

Hannah Domney – wine goddess

Richard of CMWines

Jane of CMWines tantilising clients

David Hewitt

Pestbury Fine Wine Circle

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The Sutton Gallery The first exhibition at Leicester’s premier new independent art gallery, The Sutton Gallery, presents stunning work by the Russian Modernist Kirill Sokolov...

“I am absolutely delighted to open the gallery with an exhibition of work by Kirill Sokolov, an artist whose work I have admired since seeing two major exhibitions in Durham and London while I was still a student. The subtlety of colour palette and dramatic variation in styles that plays out in his impressive body of work is constantly surprising and visionary.” – Reuben Sutton

“An international reputation as a modernist painter and sculptor” The Guardian

Situated in the fashionable Stoneygate

His art is expressive, dynamic, thoughtful

area of Leicester, The Sutton Gallery is

and undoubtedly thought-provoking.

his art business in 2011, staging high

Leicester’s newest art gallery, dedicated

All of his paintings, collages and water-

profile exhibitions around the country.

to staging stimulating exhibitions of

colours have a lyrical quality and a subdued

Following the success of exhibitions

artists with an international reputation.

drama, a spontaneity and intensity.

in locations including Edinburgh’s New

Demonstrating influence from a wide range

Town and the University of Durham,

The debut exhibition in Leicester is

of artists including Ben Nicholson, Barbara

Reuben has opened his own premises

bold and visionary, presenting work

Hepworth, Kurt Schwitters and Kasimir

on the enclave of independent and

by one of the most fascinating artists

Malevich, his vision is individual in its

boutique shopping, Allandale Road in

of the last century, a man who was

commitment and capacity for emotion.

Leicester, with the aim of presenting a

Gallery Director Reuben Sutton set up

revered as an artist in Soviet Russia,

diverse selection of the highest

fooling the authorities with

quality art at affordable prices.

orthodox work, while secretly studying avant-garde western art

Alongside showing work by the

with a passion and eventually

very best of local artists, the

emigrating to Britain to become a

gallery’s exciting programme of

major voice in modernist creativity.

internationally renowned art is set to continue with the schedule

Kirill Sokolov was born in 1930

of upcoming exhibitions including

and studied at the prestigious

a group show of work by Japanese

Surikov institute in Moscow.

abstract artists Yuko Shiraishi and

Critically acclaimed in his native

Yoshishige Furukawa, who the

Russia during the Khrushchev

New York Times has praised as

and Brezhnev years, he settled in

presenting “a bold inventiveness

Britain in 1974 and became well

across an impressive body of work.”

known for his artistic vision and

In addition, the gallery holds

restless experimentation. He exhibited widely throughout the UK and Europe, including major shows at The University of Durham, Manchester Cathedral, The State Art Gallery, Perm and the Gulbenkian Museum.

stock by some of Britain’s most The exhibition features a magnificent series

celebrated artists, including Henry Moore,

of paintings based around his travels in

John Piper, Terry Frost and many more.

Crete, in which a solitary figure seems to merge with the shadows in poetic, beautiful, almost Hitchcockian tension. Though, perhaps a more apt allusion is to “the faithless shadows” of Alexander Blok’s poetry.

The Sutton Gallery

4 Allandale Road Leicester www.thesuttongallery.com

ARTS AND CULTURE

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OH

Danny Boyle For Danny Boyle, it seems the only way is up. His career has gone from strength to strength, with a string of BAFTA’s, Oscars and other prestigious awards behind him. But will it be a knighthood for Danny to bring in the new year?

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The Manchester born director has come a long way from his Radcliffe beginnings. Following nearly two decades of critical acclaim, July’s Olympic Opening Ceremony saw perhaps the most spectacular of all his creations so far.

Boyle’s appreciation for all things great and British filled the ceremony, moving seamlessly from the industrial revolution to a celebration of the NHS and the music greats of the past sixty years. It combined subtleties of British humour with more serious cultural statements. Both “silly and earnest” it was a visual feast and an opening ceremony like no other before it. Boyle is a true British artist, and his playful irreverence never goes too far. He has proved repeatedly that he is a cinematic icon. Who else would portray Her Royal Highness jumping from a plane with James Bond? Honed over his impressive career, Boyle’s style is as individual as the man is himself. The son of a school dinner lady and a self-educated gardener, Boyle’s earliest ambition was to become a priest. Dissuaded from this path by his own priest, he turned to theatre. Perhaps this was divine intervention, because his subsequent career has inspired millions. Early success on the small screen, gave rise to his cinematic triumphs of the nineties. “Trainspotting” in 1996 translated Irvine Welsh’s contemporary classic for the masses and sparked an award-winning pairing with Ewan McGregor that was “like no other” in the words of the Scottish star.

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He has been called ‘a local boy done good’ by supporters in his home town of Bury. For the British public he will always be a home-grown talent, preferring to stay in the UK rather than moving over to the bright lights of Hollywood. For Boyle, despite recognising the importance of Hollywood in forging “big-time directors”, he prefers to stay in his home country. It seems that Britain “keeps him grounded.” Whatever the reason, we are more than pleased to have him here.

Who else would portray Her Royal Highness jumping from a plane with James Bond? His Olympic ceremony triumph demonstrated his love for Great Britain and all of its achievements. He was inspired by a line from Shakespeare’s The Tempest ‘Be not afeard; the isle is full of noises.’

Boyle translated that ‘noise’ with an exuberance that remained characteristically British. At times the ceremony was colourful and chaotic, other times self-depreciating and understated. Boyle’s attitude to himself seems similarly understated. Repeatedly questioned about the possibility of an upcoming knighthood, he has merely laughed off the suggestion, only saying “I don’t think so...” But the British public seems to know so. A poll in the summer suggested that sixty-two per cent of the British public thought that he should receive a knighthood in the New Year. Bookkeepers echoed this with 5/4 odds that he will be knighted by our sky-diving sovereign. His rise to fame is a shining example to those desirous of a similar career trajectory, and his work continues to honour those who struggle to achieve their success. Danny Boyle has often presented a rags-to-riches story like that of the 2008 hit Slumdog Millionaire, which sees a Mumbai teen from the slums win the Indian ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire?’ then be accused of cheating and arrested. Clearly he is not afraid of directing harrowing tales of adversity. His most recent release 127 Hours, in 2010, is a brilliant example of Boyle’s close attention to the importance of portraying inspiring individuals.

His Olympic ceremony triumph demonstrated his love for Great Britain and all of its achievements. What should be an unwatchable and gruesome true-life tale becomes a compelling and poignant demonstration of human tenacity as climber Aron Ralston fights to free himself from a fallen boulder in a canyon near Moab, Utah. This year, Boyle has become one of Britain’s favourite sons. And it seems to be a mantle that will be hard for him to shift. With a new cinematic offering in the coming year, the director calls on more famous names for his film. ‘Trance’ will star James McEvoy and tells the tale of an auction house employee who helps to steal a painting but then develops amnesia and cannot remember where the painting has been hidden. However the film itself promises to be infinitely more memorable, with an all-star cast and filming completed as of July 2012. Whether the offering will produce another Oscar for the British artist, only time will tell but critics are already excited for the release.

Boyle’s list of accolades and critically acclaimed offerings sees him move from the ‘Best British Newcomer’ of 1994 to the British institution that he now is. It seems his artistic vision knows no bounds and we can rest assured that he will continue to make his own particular brand of ‘noise’ that will be heard through the cinema and television screens of millions across the globe. With twenty seven million viewers of the Olympic Opening Ceremony alone, his presence has been more that felt on the international stage and his position in the artistic history books is indelibly inked. Not often is it that someone has such a profound effect on the cultural landscape of their home country and we can only hope that he will continue to be recognised for his outstanding service to the Great British film industry and to our country as whole. Images, clockwise from top; The Opening Ceremony of London 2012 Olympic Games; Danny Boyle; Early sequence from London 2012 Olympic Games; Ewen Bremner, Ewen McGregor and Robert Carlyle in Trainspotting (1996); Danny Boyle; Danny Boyle with Frieda Pinto and Dev Patel; Opening Ceremony, London 2012 Olympic Games; as before;

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ARTS AND CULTURE

STATE OF THE ART De Vere Venues East Midlands Conference Centre and Hotel

Nottingham’s newest hotel, the Orchard Hotel on the University of Nottingham’s main campus, is a contemporary, eco-friendly venue with the highest quality facilities. Recently opened next to the East Midlands Conference Centre, the sensational new Orchard Hotel is one of the most innovative, stylish and eco-friendly hotels in the East Midlands. An exquisite fusion of sound environmental principles and the best in modern design, the hotel features high quality facilities and exciting dining and bar options. The very best hotels in the world adapt to the needs of the people who use them, whether to work, relax, meet or let your hair down. The Orchard Hotel achieves this with ease, providing the ultimate in restful tranquillity in spaces such as the ilounge, the Library and the relaxing and comfortable bedrooms, while also delivering all the conveniences you need to work during your stay at the hotel, a suite of boardroom-style function rooms and a truly exceptional bar and restaurant for unwinding in. A stunning example of contemporary architecture and interior design at its very best, the hotel features stylish accessible rooftop terraces, garden roofs and makes maximum use of natural daylight to create a truly striking and relaxing environment. Open spaces provide beautiful vantage points for views of The University of

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Nottingham’s award-winning landscaped grounds, spanning 330 acres, yet only 2 miles from the heart of Nottingham’s city centre. Constructed with sound ecological and environmental considerations at the heart of its design philosophy, the hotel features state-of-the-art technology to reduce carbon emissions. Solar photovoltaic panels and ground-sourced heat technology are incorporated, as well as a lower energy assisted cooling ventilation system. A Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system provides heating or cooling from each of the indoor units on an individual basis, a system particularly useful in hotels where heating is needed in some areas, cooling in others. The hotel development is aiming to achieve an ‘Excellent’ rating under the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), which recognises low-impact buildings that incorporate the best environmental practice. For all its eco-principles, no less energy has been expended on ensuring the hotel is luxuriously and stylishly appointed, creating an atmosphere that is the epitome of contemporary elegance. The hotel’s facilities include free wireless internet throughout the hotel, and a high tech gym and fitness centre: Fitness Zone, which incorporates Matrix equipment including Arc Cross

Trainers, Fitness Bikes and Running Equipment, Row Machines, Cable Machines and Leg Curl Machines. The gym also includes state of the art multimedia entertainment systems such as wall mounted LCD TVs. Accommodation is just as stylish as the rest of the hotel, featuring elegantly designed rooms filled with every convenience imaginable, including Sky television, the supreme comfort of a power shower, an audio docking station, and flat screen TVs. Booking executive rooms gains you access to the iLounge, which also includes further access to a stunning private rooftop garden- the perfect place to relax or escape to for peace and tranquillity. Complimentary newspapers, snacks and beverages are also available. The hotel’s signature a la carte restaurant, Bramleys Brasserie, is set to become a welcome addition to the thriving Nottingham restaurant scene. Serving outstanding brasserie style cuisine, the Bramleys chefs make use of the very best in locally sourced and seasonal produce in delicious, freshly prepared and creative dishes. From sumptuous 28 day aged Casterbridge T-Bone steaks to stylish dishes such as Homemade Blythburgh Scotch Egg with Piccalilli Dressing to a Classic Game Stew with Dumplings and Red Cabbage and Seared Salmon with Braised Puy Lentils, this is exquisite brasserie food at its very best:

exactly the sort of meal you would want to sit down to after a day’s conferencing or a business meeting in Nottingham. Make sure you leave room for dessert, though, as the varied dessert menu includes Sherry Trifle, made according to Mrs Beeton’s recipe from 1885, and just as hard-to-resist today! Adjacent to the restaurant is the exquisitely stylish bar and the library and lounge. Here residents and non-residents alike can take advantage of a more relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy a variety of hot and cold beverages, signature bar menu dishes and lighter bites, available throughout the day, as well as an indulgent afternoon tea menu for those moments when only this most traditional of repasts will do! In addition, the bar serves an outstanding and creative menu of signature cocktails, including a wide range of Orchard-inspired specialities featuring apples and pears! The addition of the Orchard Hotel, adjacent to the East Midlands Conference Centre, completes the offering of an ideal integrated solution for meetings and events. From academic conferences and corporate dinners to weddings, exhibitions and large gatherings, all can now be accommodated with ease. With luxury facilities, exceptional dining and one of Nottingham’s most stylish brasseries, the hotel offers everything not only for conference attendees but for business travellers and local visitors alike- offering all hotel guests an unforgettable experience of contemporary eco-chic. East Midlands Conference Centre and the Orchard Hotel are now managed by De Vere Venues, part of the De Vere Group.

For more information East Midlands Conference Centre, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RJ Tel: 0115 846 8000 or email: emcc@deverevenues.co.uk

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

MARKETING your business for sale

Careful preparation is needed to get a business ready to market for sale. From selecting the right adviser to shaping the business and ensuring that the most suitable marketing strategy is employed to attract the right buyer for both the entrepreneurial business owner and their business. The hardest decision that many entrepreneurial business owners will have to make is the one to sell. Entrepreneurs, who have built up their businesses over many years, find the eventual exit as much of a cold financial and business decision as an emotional roller coaster. The most common concern, having made the decision to sell, for any owner is the one of maintaining confidentiality, thus ensuring that if circumstances change the business can continue as normal. Therefore, it is vital to say, entrepreneurs cannot afford to get it wrong. The question is; how do they make sure that they get it right? Once a business owner has made the decision to sell, firstly they have to consider whether the business is in fact ready to be sold. Taking a couple of examples: a) if the business is four years into a five year contract with its customers there could be concerns over the security of revenue and buyers may propose a lower valuation than anticipated; or b) if the owner is integral to the business the buyer might want to tie them in for a number of years after the sale; neither scenario would be desirable. In both cases time may be required before approaching the market to a) put extensions to the contracts in place; or b) build a management team and make the owner more dispensable.

and marketed for sale when it is performing at its best and consequently may be more likely to achieve its maximum valuation.

marketed for sale. Emphasis must be given to the fact that the grooming needs to be given time and of course, implementation is the key.

An effective grooming process should result in a better deal and may close any gap that exists between what the entrepreneur aspires to sell the business for and what it is worth today.

Once the business has been prepared for sale, there are many different marketing strategies and approaches to finding the right buyer for a business; from the overt

Grooming focuses on making the business fundamentally more attractive to potential buyers and enhancing the deal. It can act as a health check to make sure that the business records are in good order, but more importantly ensures that trends are moving in the right direction, and that the business can demonstrate some growth and is not being sold at the top of the growth curve; this might even require making small acquisitions to add to existing activity. It is imperative that the business must continue to build and maintain a strong channel of potential orders, promote new products and identify growth markets which, when promoted appropriately, will raise the level of excitement and interest in the opportunity being

It is important to get the right professional advice at the right time. If the decision to sell has been made for a date in one to two years’ time, the entrepreneur may need to be consulting a good professional corporate finance adviser now. The business may need to get itself ready for the sale (grooming) and consulting at this early stage will enable the business to be presented

Lisa Huckerby Manager, Corporate Finance - Nottingham lisa.huckerby@rsmtenon.com 07972 004118 Andy Breeze Director, Corporate Finance – Leicester andrew.breeze@rsmtenon.com 07800 617138

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RSM Tenon is this year’s National Firm of the Year awarded by the British Accountancy Awards, and is regarded as one of the most progressive and entrepreneurial professional services firms in the UK today. Through a comprehensive suite of accounting and consultancy services, they offer intelligent solutions to a

national client base that ranges from individuals and entrepreneurially-led owner managed businesses, to large corporations and public sector organisations.

largest global accounting network with over 700 offices in more than 70 countries, and in excess of 30,000 people worldwide.

With leadership in the provision of business advisory, risk management, tax, recovery and financial management services, RSM Tenon are the UK’s 7th largest accounting firm with a fee income of over £245m, employing nearly 3,000 people with offices in all major commercial centres across the UK.

They help entrepreneurs create, protect and enhance personal wealth. They give board and senior executives the assurance they need to manage their organisation effectively and the proactive support they demand to help them stay ahead of the competition.

RSM Tenon is a member of RSM International, the 6th

advert in the Financial Times inviting offers, to a more bespoke and confidential research process to find the strategic purchaser with the most to gain.

buyer for a business to be found. This is usually in terms of strategic fit, the personalities involved and of course the price being paid.

If the aim is to simply achieve a quick sale, perhaps the sale price is not a key issue, the overt advert is probably the best approach. However, by employing such a strategy, the entrepreneur is effectively putting a ‘For Sale’ sign outside their door. Undoubtedly there will be interest, but the best financial result is unlikely to be achieved.

There are many factors which will affect the length of this confidential marketing process; the sector in which the business operates, the dynamics of the business and the appetite of the acquirers are just a few.

A more tailored and confidential process will be the one that maximises and achieves the best sales price. Investing time at the beginning of the process to undertake detailed and thorough research into the business being sold and its market will almost certainly result in a longer process, but also allows the ‘right’

Selling a business for most entrepreneurs is a once in a lifetime activity. Get it right by working with people who have done it before for others and with advisers who can deliver two things: expertise and resource. Expertise to assess the business and the likely outcome; to present and market the business in the best light possible; to negotiate hard for every pound; and that has been honed on the front line of transactions and not just from books.

www.rsmtenon.com

An adviser must also have the specific resource to research the market for potential purchasers (this may need to include international reach) and be able to commit proper resource to project managing the transaction and proactively driving the deal to completion. As well as demonstrating a track record, the adviser must be someone the entrepreneur can build a strong relationship with. There will be some testing times during the course of the sale and you will need someone alongside you who you trust implicitly to give you the right counsel at the right time. Even if the message is not the one you want to hear. The important thing is to take the time to get the early stages of the process right. Get the foundations correct and the external marketing process will build into the right transaction for the business and more importantly for the entrepreneur.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

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BRAND NEW WORLD With consumers knowing what they want, and how to get it, we see the rise of the brand and it’s more powerful than ever before.

The rise of the brand has meant the death of sales as we know it. Consumers have never been more powerful, actively reshaping the marketplace. Branding, and more importantly, innovative branding has never been more vital in making or breaking a brand. But this is not necessarily a new phenomenon. How many times have you decided to ‘hoover’ your home or secured a parcel with ‘sellotape’? The chances are you haven’t used these products at all, but it is the power of the brand that endures with consumers. A brand builds a business and then the business must sustain and evolve the brand.

Branding is never an accident. Even the simplest of names, logos and concepts have vast amounts of work and development behind them. Apple is arguably the most desirable and aspirational technology giant of our century.

The birth of a brand can be crucial in establishing an instant hit, a brand with a popularity that transforms the marketplace, driving competition and change. When Research in Motion launched its first smartphone in 1992, the Canadian telecommunications business took its nameless prototype to a branding agency with the aim of being provided with a name. The product needed a user-friendly, positive and memorable name. The branding agency initially came up with StrawBerry, but a crucial, last-minute change of heart created the name that we all know: ‘BlackBerry’. A telecommunications giant was born, but the story could have been very different. The brand agency realised that ‘Straw’ could sound outdated, lacking the dynamism needed to propel the brand forward. Today the name is synonymous with the logo; they are seamlessly streamlined and stamped into the minds of consumers, representing a product that will fulfil their needs as well as being a prestigious communications device.

Desirability is key to branding. Successful branding will make a product excel over others because the consumer believes in the power and prestige of the brand and it makes them want it. However, the modern consumer goes even further than this. The rise of online ratings websites, forums and internet product gurus means that the product must support the popularity of the brand for it to thrive. We, as consumers, make our own decisions knowing what we need and choosing the product that we believe to be the best.

Their products maintain the simplicity of their brand name. Everyone knows the old adage; ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’. With the availability of an NHS application (among thousands of others) this may well be truer from a modern consumer than ever before.

Branding mavens Al and Laura Ries, co-authors of The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding explain branding succinctly, offering the same invaluable advice in their book as they do to massive global organisations. Al Ries’s iconic statement “The power of a brand is inversely proportional to its scope” seems initially, to be purposefully obscure. This is not the case. What Ries so succinctly refers to is again the consumer’s role in the success of a product.

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He knows that the consumer wants a brand that is simple, uncomplicated and with narrow scope. This means that the product they receive is targeted and the branding ensures heavy-weight success because of its simplicity. When we think of any of the established brand names that we all use, we realise that their image, logo and name all slots perfectly together. It is no accident that they dominate the marketplace. The brand is desirable because the product is targeted and specific; it fulfils a perceived need in the marketplace. A new product needs to find a new category; the product alone is not necessarily enough. Apple knew this when they launched the iPad. They could have reinvented more and more of their existing MacBook models, but instead they launched a product that created a new category in the technology market. Now other brands are running to catch up with tablet-fever. The iPad was ground-breaking and everyone wants a piece. A brand can form an implicit contract between a product and a customer. The customer develops expectations from a brand that must be consistently reinforced by the product quality itself, and the success of the organisation it was generated by. The brand must always offer something different to the customer, creating a niche in a near saturated market of competitors. For the last hundred years, branding has grown to be the most important aspect of marketing and communications strategies. It infiltrates all aspects of our lives. No one is exempt from being a consumer, and the majority of us have our favourite brands. Even those who turn away from large brand names in their choice of supermarket, choosing a basic range have unconsciously selected an anti-brand, but a brand nonetheless because it represents products that they believe in.

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Many companies generate fantastic new products, and then they approach a brand agency to provide them with a concept that will generate impact in the marketplace. Simply put, the company will then experience varying degrees of success as they utilise a variety of different organisations to fulfil different aspects of their brand communications plan. The traditional model of advertising and marketing requires that a plethora of different agencies become involved with the process and naturally pull in opposite directions as they fight to create what they believe is the best solution for the product and brand as a whole. But this is set to change. Champions (UK) Plc is a brand agency with a difference. A leading agency and recently named as one of the Telegraph’s Top 1000 businesses in the UK, as well as winning the Leicester Mercury’s award for the Highest Climbing Business in Leicestershire and Rutland in their list of Top 200 companies. Champions provide a complete in-house solution for every step of the branding, marketing, creative and communications processes. The organisation provides the one-stop-shop solution that can create truly cohesive and bespoke packages for their clients. With all aspects of brand creation and management dealt with by the experienced Marketing, Public Relations, Design and Event Management teams, the departments all work together with one clear vision. They are breaking new ground and revolutionising their online communications and marketing output by utilising the power of social media. With a sophisticated strategy that generates a social media campaign that is individually tailored to each of their client’s needs, Champions (UK) Plc is uniquely placed to provide a relevant and engaged communications project for each one of their diverse clients.

The ethos of Champions (UK) Plc is creativity, dedication, passion and persistence. They know how to raise the profile of a brand, ensuring that the product reaches its full potential. The company has created its own successful brand, finding its own category in the marketplace and providing a streamlined solution for their client, offering a unique concept. They have an invaluable insight into the marketplace, identifying the ideal sectors that should be targeted by their clients in order to achieve the reach and success they require. Champions (UK) Plc’s Head of Brand Marketing, Sarah Pearson shares her insight into the unique placement of the organisation to provide their clients with a fully comprehensive communications and marketing strategy, managing every step of the project: “At Champions (UK) Plc we understand the importance of maintaining constant communication with our clients. For each one of the many projects we have undertaken we ensure that we create clear objectives and are as flexible as possible so we can create a bespoke campaign. We work with major brands, new product marketplace launches and B2B businesses so there really is no stone of the branding marketplace left unturned and we believe that we have a unique and leading offering within our industry sector.” As much as a the creators of a brand have a vision for the future of their product, it is down to the creative team at a brand agency like Champions (UK) Plc to translate this vision into a coordinated strategy that becomes the ‘face’ of the product for the consumer marketplace. From creating the original logo, website and marketing tools, the team of design experts are able to create the perfect visual marketing solution for any brand.

“Champions provide a complete in-house solution for every step of the branding, marketing, creative and communications processes.” Brand expert Ewen Lewis describes the process: “When working with a brand it is vital we identify the customers they wish to target. I believe that creating a targeted and cohesive visual is crucial for the entire brand strategy. We all know how important the appearance of a product is and creating cohesive links between product packaging, website theming and all marketing collateral is essential when establishing the brand within the marketplace. At Champions (UK) Plc we constantly strive to create and develop the most innovative solutions for our clients, ensuring that their brand has the highest level of impact possible on the marketplace.”

Champions (UK) Plc are brand experts. They know that a brand needs to communicate its key messages without over complication. The value of a brand lies in simplicity, and the ability of the brand agency to target the right sections of the desired marketplace at the correct time. Branding needs to be a constant process, evolving and embracing a changing marketplace. This does not mean that a brand should constantly overhaul their image, but bending to anticipated changes is a must. Champions (UK) Plc doesn’t provide its clients with a ‘one-off’ communications plan. They manage the brand on a long term basis, nurturing the strengths and recognising any potential weaknesses that can be turned around. The benefit of Champions (UK) Plc is simple. Your brand won’t tear itself apart as it becomes a metaphorical pin-ball in a fragmented marketing machine. It will remain the central ignited flame of the strategy; constantly fuelling all aspects of Champions (UK) Plc’s combined vision to take the brand forward.

In a marketplace where your customer decides the fate of your brand, the hard-sell is dead. Information is as powerful as currency and in difficult economic times, consumers are arming themselves with facts and spending their money on what is really valuable to them. Products can be launched from an ever increasing platform, and Champions (UK) Plc offers a modern brand solution, reinventing the brand agency model so that it can participate in the modern world. We may be experiencing a brand invasion, but it’s one we should embrace. The power rests in the consumer to decide so every brand must work hard for its own recognition. Ultimately customers only care about brands, so make yours the very best it can be. Knowing how your customers think means knowing the success your brand can reach, and Champions (UK) Plc offer an all-encompassing solution that will guarantee enviable results.

“Whether you want your brand to scale the highest heights or make the biggest splash, as a brand communications agency, Champions (UK) Plc specialise in developing creative and highly successful brands with maximum impact and sustainable longevity. Contact us now to begin boosting the success of your brand.”

For more information please contact Sarah Pearson on: 08453 313031 or email: spearson@championsukplc.com

www.championsukplc.com

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CHILDREN OF THE

REVOLUTION Social media, like all new and exciting technological phenomena, has its fair share of critics. It attracts a huge amount of media attention and can cause a global reaction. Never before has there been such an easy way to access hundreds and thousands of people.

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Social media, like all new and exciting technological phenomena, has its fair share of critics. It attracts an huge amount of media attention and can cause a global reaction. Never before has there been such an easy way to access hundreds and thousands of people. There are, however, despite the best efforts of the technology giants, noticeable gaps in use of social media by businesses. Conspicuous within a variety industry sectors, these gaps can be attributed to some executives believing that social media is perhaps an inappropriate tool for use in business, or a flash in the pan that will have no real and noticeable effect on the business sectors that they wish to target. But social media is more than this. Sceptics, despite their best intentions of safe guarding the traditional stoicism of their businesses, are about to be left behind. Social media is more than a tweet about the latest episode of a reality television show. It is more than a Facebook upload of holiday snaps. It is a revolution, a fast spinning wheel that can and will add dramatically to the reach of your business if used in the right way. Ignore it, and you could be left behind.

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Champions (UK) Plc are joining that revolution. As a leading and unique brand agency, they are harnessing the power of the social media phenomenon and using it as a vital tool in their bespoke communications and marketing strategies. For Champions (UK) Plc, it is vital to be in the heart of the action, joining the instant communication forum and sharing their unique offering with the widest audience possible. But this is not a scattergun approach. Having chosen to launch new and innovative social media management strategies, Champions (UK) Plc are now expanding on their already impressive social media presence. For their many clients, this means that they will continue to see the benefit of Champions (UK) Plc’s targeted social media campaigns, but with even greater reach and insight into the fluctuating trends of the current market place.

IT IS A REVOLUTION, A FAST SPINNING WHEEL THAT CAN AND WILL ADD DRAMATICALLY TO THE REACH OF YOUR BUSINESS IF USED IN THE RIGHT WAY. IGNORE IT, AND YOU COULD BE LEFT BEHIND. 101

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For those who want to employ the best social media strategy, there is a solution to this technological conundrum. For many, the myriad of different platforms, apps and sites to help you make those vital cyber connections are still slightly out of reach. Many businesses feel that they missed out on the essential social media training that seems to come hardwired to new graduates and teenage entrepreneurs. The social media movement really is off and running, with greater access to technology and a seemingly omnipresent labyrinth of wireless internet networks it seems like everyone is tweeting, commenting, liking and perhaps most importantly ‘linking in’ with each other. Business connections are now made over Skype, as well as in the board room. A round of corporate golf can be complemented with some well-timed tweets and retweets, gaining interest, gaining followers and gaining awareness. It is awareness that really is the key and this is something that Champions (UK) Plc recognises. As it is often said, ignorance is not an excuse. But why should you be excused from using the power of social media to propel your business on to an ever increasing platform? Champions (UK) Plc is a brand agency that fully embraces the incredible power of social media. For them, it is not enough to recognise the potential of this particular strain of technological wizardry. They are engaging with it on a completely different level because they are working to make social media a vital part of their brand communication strategies.

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Champions (UK) Plc is a brand agency completely devoted to working with companies to maximise their social media footprint. Champions (UK) Plc saw the clear benefits that would come from engaging with such a global phenomenon, taking social media to levels that some would never have thought possible. The agency is unique in the marketplace, harnessing and developing bespoke social media campaigns using their practically limitless in house technological tools. In a world where the number of twitter followers your company’s account has is more interesting to some than where you place in annual revenue tables, Champions (UK) Plc know how it is vital to continually and completely engage with the online information network. The brand agency uses social media part of their bespoke communication and marketing strategies that ensure sustainable longevity for their clients’ products. It is vital that they use the amazing tools at their disposal to spread their brands’ message. Thousands upon thousands of instant communications are sent every minute, linking together different groups, individuals and networks.

Champions (UK) Plc wants to have an even louder voice in that conversation, and that is why they are harnessing the power of social media for themselves. The opportunity to extend their reach exponentially into what is becoming a cyber-universe of endless business possibilities is too exciting to ignore. Champions (UK) Plc offers the capabilities of a web technology agency, combined with a set of fully cohesive in house teams. The brand agency’s social media and web development department offers a complete service. They don’t just advise on the rather grey sounding ‘search engine optimisation’ and data analysis. They offer a wide variety of innovation and creativity that, when combined with their technical know-how, provides their clients with a social media presence that works exclusively for them. The internet marketing organisation has something a little bit different to offer. They work with major social media outlets to consistently maximise reach for their clients. They actively engage with the businesses they work with, creating a dynamic new service that incorporates ground breaking technology, finding more intelligent and innovative ways to harness the power of the social media information interchange. The team and technology assimilates data from the internet, analysing the most optimum times for businesses to target their ideal audiences. This intelligent tool then allows a synchronised launch of social media messages, through Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms in order to achieve maximum reach to the public, targeting individuals and relevant industry sectors alike.

presence and awareness amongst the industry sectors that you wish to target. Advocating the constant production of good, regular and vibrant content, Champions (UK) Plc really does offer a revolutionary service, harnessing the massive power and influence that social media has and turning it into a targeted device for decisive business capability. For Champions (UK) Plc, working with a number of different high profile brands and individuals means that they need to stay as connected as possible with the fast paced marketplace around them. Each brand that Champions (UK) Plc works with is unique, requiring that they reach a variety of specifically targeted potential customers or sponsors. Social media really is a vital tool for creating an initial ‘buzz’ about a brand and at Champions (UK) Plc they know that it is a key component in continuing an effective and long-term PR strategy. For Champions (UK) Plc, their newest social media projects are taking them to new communications heights. Reaching higher and higher, Champions (UK) Plc are releasing the potential of their social media capabilities onto one of the world’s fastest moving marketplaces.

Social media is such a vital component of our current marketplace. It is flexible, ever changing and continues to expand, creating infinite business possibilities. At Champions (UK) Plc, they know the huge value of being part of the social media universe. A global phenomenon should never be ignored and this brand agency is choosing to embrace all that is current, exciting and fast flowing in business, making it a clear market leader in its field. Finding an organisation that can target relevant and specific sections of the marketplace, allowing your brand or organisation to achieve its maximum reach and potential is not easy. This is where Champions (UK) Plc is the ideal solution. A brand agency with a difference, Champions (UK) Plc is not only a communications agency, they have a full in house, integrated marketing, events and celebrity management teams that provide a streamlined brand management service. Most importantly they are ensuring that they are always at the forefront of cutting edge social media technology, taking a firm hold of this global network and using it to propel their client’s brand to the new levels of exposure.

Contact Champions (UK) Plc to work with a brand agency that has all the capability needed to get the very most out of your product

Telephone 08453 31 30 31 or visit

www.championsukplc.com

It seems flippant to say that a few tweets and Facebook updates will revolutionise your business’ reach, but by using social media in a calculated and business-savvy way; you really can obtain much higher levels of web

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Thinking outside the box? We’ve got it covered...

THE Marketing & PR Specialists Call us on

08453 313 031

www.championsukplc.com

FASTEST GROWING BUSINESS Leicestershire’s Companies

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

ULTIMATE GOLFING LUXURY Golf Premier Solutions offer magnificent tailored luxury corporate golfing packages that will entertain your most important clients.

When you need to impress important clients for your business, Golf Premier Solutions provide luxurious golfing hospitality at an exciting and exclusive portfolio of destinations in Las Vegas, Marbella, Miami and Phuket. Founded by Roger Partridge, who has extensive experience travelling the globe in the high powered corporate environment, Golf Premier Solutions have the local knowledge required to create luxury bespoke golfing hospitality packages that your clients will never forget. Golf Premier Solutions leave no stone unturned in striving for the complete satisfaction of you and your VIP guests. A Golf Premier Solutions representative is available twenty four hours a day for the duration of your trip, to ensure they meet the exacting standards you require when you are entertaining important clients.

Truly sensational hospitality can make a huge difference to businesses, from retaining clients to winning important contracts. Working with you at a personal level, Golf Premier Solutions will design an impressive luxury golf hospitality package, carefully selecting the courses for your tour based around the excellence of the golf available at each destination and our insider knowledge of local courses and amenities. What really distinguishes the Golf Premier Solutions team is their commitment to working with you to develop a package that will ensure a fantastic experience for all of your guests. Golf Premier Solutions have specially selected exquisite locations around the world to ensure that you and your guests can experience not only spectacular golf, but glorious culture and dining too.

PHUKET: Twinpalms Resort Phuket offers an exotic paradise with exquisite golf courses that your guests will never forget. As one of the most up and coming golfing destinations in the world, some of the luxury golf courses in Phuket include the Blue Canyon Golf Club, which hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic in 1994 and 1998, when Tiger Woods won the event and the Laguna Phuket Golf Club, which is known as being a favourite course of legendary six time major champion Sir Nick Faldo. From tropical scenery, glorious beaches and magnificent Thai cuisine, Phuket offers myriad ways to impress your guests when not on the golf course. With a beach club, spa, yachting, a wine room and two sensational restaurants, the Twinpalms Resort is a truly unique and luxurious destination.

For more information about Golf Premier Solutions contact: Paul Thompson on: 07747 015 698 email: paul@golfpremiersolutions.com or enquiries@golfpremiersolutions.com 108

MIAMI: Turnberry Isle Resort In Miami, Golf Premier Solutions offer your guests the opportunity to play some of the most famous and highly regarded courses in Florida. Based at the spectacular and luxurious Turnberry Isle Resort, the two home courses were originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., and have been re-interpreted by golf icon Raymond Floyd. The Soffer Course and the Miller Course showcase the best of Florida golf, with contoured fairways, clever doglegs, rolling greens, perfectly carved bunkers, strategically placed water features and a variety of elevation changes to challenge and enthral golfers of any handicap. The magnificent final island green of the Soffer Course is a wonderful end to this magical golfing challenge.

Further afield, Golf Premier Solutions can develop a bespoke itinerary that will take in courses including the infamous “Blue Monster” at the Doral Golf and Country Club, home of the World Golf Cadillac Championship, where previous winners include Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. The facilities at the Turnberry Isle Resort are truly second to none, with a luxurious beach club, magnificent swimming pool, an elegant marina and impressive tennis courts, to name but a few of the fantastic amenities on offer at the hotel. When not on the courses, your guests will also be able to luxuriate in the legendary laid back culture of Miami and enjoy the fantastic South Florida cuisine at the exclusive selection of hand-picked restaurants we recommend.

MARBELLA: Villa Padierna In Marbella, your guests can enjoy the stunning golf that has made Southern Spain a true golfer’s paradise. Based at the prestigious Hotel Villa Padierna, guests will be treated to everything this luxury resort has to offer, including an enviable vantage point over the Andalucian landscape and the exquisite interiors of this Spanish gem. Our expert Golf Premier Solutions team will develop a fantastic itinerary to suit the particular tastes of your guests. Just metres from the hotel foyer, the Alfarini Course offers a spectacular opportunity for your guests to hone their games on majestic fairways and elegant greens, including the glorious 18th hole, with unbeatable views over to the Rock of Gibraltar. Other courses include the

exquisite New Course at San Roque Club, designed by the Maestro, Seve Ballesteros and opened in 2002. The New Course at San Roque is a true test, offering guests the opportunity to share Ballesteros’s elaborate, beautiful and imaginative vision in a course that every golf enthusiast truly must play. The options for dinner in Marbella are fantastic, and you can enjoy whatever cuisine and style of evening your guests desire. With our expert local knowledge and experience, Golf Premier Solutions will recommend the finest restaurants, such as an exclusive dinner at James Hewitt’s ‘The Polo House’, which has become Marbella’s most sought-after and famous restaurant: the gliteratti’s favourite spot to eat delicious food as they see and are seen!

LAS VEGAS: Bellagio Las Vegas really is a city that never sleeps! At the Bellagio, Premier Golf Solutions offer your corporate hospitality guests the ultimate in luxury and opulence in one of the most glamorous and exciting destinations in the world. The golf on offer in Las Vegas is as dramatic and luxurious as the spectacular resort itself. Away from the course, your guests will be able to take advantage of all the fantastic entertainment that Las Vegas has to offer. Whether you are watching your favourite entertainer perform on stage, enjoying one of the amazing Cirque du Soleil shows, the world’s best food, or the amazing atmosphere of the gambling halls, Las Vegas truly offers world class entertainment for your guests... and if that’s not enough, the Grand Canyon is just a short drive away.

Whichever destination you ou olff select for your luxury golf hospitality package, youu and your guests will experience spectacular golf, world-class food and ndd opulent accommodationn in some of the world’s most renowned hotels.

www.golfpremiersolutions.com 109

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

A LEGAL POWERHOUSE Freeth Cartwright have become one of the country’s foremost and fastest growing solicitors, with national expertise and experience, offering a complete service to their clients across all legal matters. With ten offices in major cities including Birmingham, London, Manchester, Leicester, Derby and Nottingham, Freeth Cartwright are a national legal powerhouse across Britain’s business centres. With an enviable reputation for the very best legal expertise, the firm is rapidly expanding and continually strengthening their offering across the country and are one of the most trusted and respected legal firms in Britain.

In their latest expansion, the firm have recently announced a merger with Henmans in Oxford, one of the largest legal firms in the Thames Valley region. The move, which will come into effect in spring of 2013, sees them strengthen their presence in sectors such as charity, agricultural services and insurance and continue to grow as one of the foremost firms nationally. Led by Chairman Colin Flanagan and Chief Executive Peter Smith this rapid expansion is of tangible benefit to clients, bringing with it increased capacity and a wider pool of knowledge and expertise across the company. “Freeth Cartwright LLP has grown rapidly in recent years and now ranks as one of the leading national firms offering comprehensive legal services in the public and private sectors.”- Legal 500 Among the firm’s other recent acquisitions are Milton Keynes, Sheffield and Stoke, where they are quickly making a great impact on the corporate community, offering clients an expanded offering of services taking advantage of the expertise of partners and solicitors based at other offices. The firm’s solicitors have a national reputation for quality, recognised by independent publications and with no less than 42 of their lawyers now recognised as “Leaders in their Field”, with leading individuals across all the main disciplines and situated in all offices.

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An industry leader when it comes to innovation, they have developed one of the most sophisticated and effective IT systems in the country, specially tailored to the requirements of clients. The system operates with password-protected extranets and allows clients instant access to up to date files from anywhere in the world. The extranet is also used for deal room transactions, so that all parties have access to documents without the need to print them and to amend the latest drafts. In addition, many clients use the facility as the historical mind of the business to store deeds and property documents, contracts, terms and conditions, and training information. It also reminds them about contract renewal dates, break clauses etc. These benefits reduce cost and increase the efficiency of the whole process, empowering clients and keeping them fully up to date with all aspects of their legal work. The national strength and innovation of the company has been recognised by a number of awards and accolades, including winning a Legal Technology Award for its IT caseviewer platform and achieving a finalist position in the British Legal Awards, Best Use of Technology. In 2010, the firm was shortlisted by the Law Society for Excellence in Innovation.

“Freeth Cartwright LLP has grown rapidly in recent years and now ranks as one of the leading national firms offering comprehensive legal services in the public and private sectors.” - Legal 500 Working across the full range of corporate legal matters and business services, the expert team of lawyers have specialist expertise in services including Ban an nkin k g & Finance, Business Structures, Commercial Contracts cts ct ts, Construction, Corporate Finance, ts Debt Recoverryy,, Dispute Resolution, Employment, Entertainment, Imm migr ig g ation, Insurance, Intellectual Property, Retail, IT & Data ata ta, Licensing & Regulatory, ta Mediation, Minerals & Mining, N Not No o ary Services, Planning & Environment, Real Estate, Restruct ucccttturi uct u ng & Insolvency, Sport, Taxation and many other areas. With one e of of the largest commercial property departments de dep e ep in th in tthe h country, they act for developerss of ind dust ustrial, residenti ntittiial nt al and commercial property, al institutionall llend en ers and inve end en nvvesto nve ves rs, privatised utilities, ve housing associatio iio ons, ns the public se se tor an sec nd commercial landlords and tenants. The he firm fi has ded edi dicat caa ed d units covering planning, environm onm nment nm e al iss issssues ues an and d construction. The culture and values at the firm are refreshing ng gly ope en, n, honest and hard-working. Eschewing legal jargon, on th on, the e approach is direct, problem-solving and clear-headed d. Employing some of the world’s most respected legal authorities, they ensure they always offer the most creative and innovative solutions and the most dynamic legal expertise. They work closely with all their clients and build quality relationships that last. This is the secret to how they have grown so fast and retained their client base while expanding across the country, truly delivering for all their clients. As a firm, Freeth Cartwright have built a reputation not only for their expert counsel but also for their sensitivity to the realities of the commercial environment. Their lawyers fully understand that the corporate environment is complex and increasingly competitive. They are also well known for their generous, knowledge-sharing approach. They ensure that all their clients are kept fully abreast of all the legal implications of everything they do, helping to avoid misunderstandings and costly future issues.

Run u nin unnin ning g the e hug hugely el su ely uccessf sssful ser ssf erries es of of semin iin nars arrrss and n ev e ent entss know know nown n as as tthe he Fre F eeth et Ca et Cartw rt rig rtw right gh htt Tra Trrain ini ning g Academ Ac Aca demyy, the dem heyy enth nttthusi siast astica as ast iccally ica ically ly en ngag age ge w with ith th h al all thei all th r client cli l ent en nts and d edu educat cate cat ate corp orpora raate e leg legal gal depart dep epar artmen ntss abo ab b ut ut the th h legal al ma matte tte ters rs at staake e in the he eir ir spe sp specialist pe areas. In additiion o to o thi this, par th artne ar tners tne rs are re rs egularly featured in lea eadin ea din ding ing indu indu ndustr stryy jour str jourrnal nals, s, pro provid pr vvii ing ng expert commentary about abo ut leg legal al iss issues ues es ac acros rosss all the indusstri ros ro tries e they work in. Thiss comm Thi comm ommitm itment itm e to en ent t the community also sees the e bus ussine iness in ss reg eg gula ularlyy pa parti rrtt cipate in sponsoring community tyy events su uch as the e No Notti ttingh tt tti ngham Post Sports Awards ngh and the Midland nd ds Wome om me en of the Ye Yea Y e r Awards. In addition to this activit vity, vit y, ind ndivi ividua ivi dua ual offic ual offic ffi es regularly hold careers events for you young oung peo people pl and scho ple ch ols, encouraging the next generatio ti n of lega gall experts ga e to make the career decisions that will see them m go from strength to strength, just as Freeth Cartwright have.

A different kind of law firm... Answers not options

BIRMINGHAM s DERBY s LEICESTER s LONDON s MANCHESTER s OXFORD s MILTON KEYNES s NOTTINGHAM s SHEFFIELD s STOKE

www.freethcartwright.co.uk 111

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SUCCESS STORIES

Adept in the fast-paced corporate environment of Britain’s biggest international organisations, leading executive performance coach Cherie Concannon helps elite individuals achieve career advancement, satisfaction, freedom and success.

If you would like to ďŹ nd out more about how Cherie can help you improve your game contact Cherie on 01509 235 325 or email cherie@cherieconcannon.co.uk www.cherieconcannon.co.uk

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The corporate environment has arguably never been more high pressured or competitive. With many businesses looking for every opportunity to maximise their efficiency and productivity, it’s more important than ever for key executives to be at their peak performance level. Cherie Concannon is a leading performance coach who has huge experience in the corporate environment, working with executives to achieve their best through motivating their team and unleashing their full potential. Ian Clayton from Rexam Plc has worked with Cherie for many years, developing a strong and productive working relationship that has assisted him as his career has advanced. “I have known Cherie for 5 or 6 years and began working with her on the Rexam leadership training. Cherie has an exceptional ability to put her audience at ease and to create an open environment where everyone can feel comfortable to speak openly and honestly. People warm to her and trust in her instantly, which makes her both motivational and inspirational. You are in a position where you don’t have to worry about asking the silly question. That’s the sort of forum she creates, where open channel discussions are possible and productive.” Ian then began working with Cherie as part of a professional development programme, where they worked together to identify gaps in his development and opportunities to make further improvements. “It’s impossible to come out after a meeting with Cherie and not be enthused to get stuck in and make the changes that will make a difference. But it isn’t just Cherie’s outgoing and positive personality that allows her to make such a difference. It is also her knowledge about how organisations work and her business acumen in general. Cherie fully immerses herself in the culture of Rexam. She understands how we work and that insight is invaluable when it comes to removing the barriers to improvements at work. Working with Cherie on a month by month basis allowed me to develop and make positive changes on a continual basis.” Working with Cherie is beneficial not only to individual executives but also has direct impact on the commercial results of the organisations they work for, as Ian asserts: “The tangible benefits to our business of working with Cherie have been extremely impressive. We’ve enjoyed a 23% increase on engagement level and we have also achieved 12 more production records this year.” Richard Lloyd of global wine business Accolade Wines has also been working with Cherie on and off for many years, and, like Ian, Richard sees Cherie’s ability to understand the dynamics of teams as key to the results she achieves. “I first worked with Cherie 10 years ago when I was at Imperial Tobacco, where she worked with both employees and managers in order to make huge improvements to the culture and motivation of the organisation. I then began working with her in individual coaching at the start of my career, helping me to advance and progress effectively. Then, after a gap of 5 or 6 years, I returned to working with Cherie.” “One of the most valuable aspects of Cherie’s coaching is her

ability to effectively manage upwards as well as managing the team. She equips you with all the tools you need to manage the people in key business relationships around you. She creates an open forum to discuss things and to work on increasing motivations, productivity and efficiency. She is very good at developing soft skills, coming up with solutions and dealing head on with any perception issues. This results in a huge reduction of wasted emotional energy.” “Her business experience makes her an ideal sounding board and a great support mechanism for any issues that arise in the workplace. Cherie is honest, open and upfront. She gives you a subjective view of your areas of weaknesses and your strength, but she does so in a way that opens the door for tangible solutions and change. She makes you conscious of the areas where you can make a direct impact on your own behaviour and that of your team.” “One of the areas where I have most noticed a direct positive impact from working with Cherie is in developing an understanding of other people’s behaviour. Rather than seeing the behaviour of others as something totally separate to our own behaviour, Cherie helps you to understand that the behaviour of others is often a direct response to our own behaviour. This respective way of influencing people has been key to improving the way I work with my colleagues and my team. Everyone in my team now also experience the benefits of working with Cherie and I have seen a demonstrable impact on motivation and productivity.” These key areas were central to the work Andy Backhouse from Rexam Plc undertook when he began working with Cherie on a one-to-one executive performance coaching: “Cherie is a powerful personality and accomplished and experienced in the business environment. I first began working with her when I was Operations Director. The working relationship I have developed with her has been extremely beneficial to me in my position in the organisation. She’s a sounding board and a confident who offers honest nononsense advice and isn’t afraid of being frank and up-front.” Following the time working with Cherie, Andy was offered and grasped the opportunity to head up Operations within Asia. The programme included relationship management, sensory awareness, behavioural flexibility development and political management. “One of the biggest benefits of working with Cherie is her great understanding of the things that potentially block productivity in organisations. Very often this can be communication and key relationships within teams. Cherie is exceptionally good at helping to manage and understand people. This is probably the biggest direct influence of Cherie on my career. She helped me to manage the key relationships with other people around me in the organisation and positively impacted on the culture and productivity of all my working relationships.” Working in different ways depending on the particularities of the situation, the culture and the individuals involved, Cherie Concannon provides the support network and the effective performance coaching to achieve excellent business success stories and impressive commercial results. 113

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SUPER CHARGING your business to give you the edge

In today’s ultra competitive business environment, the businesses that succeed are streamlined and able to grow fast and think big. With the most comprehensive and up to the minute technological solutions, PMGC can help you to work smarter by giving you that all important edge over your competitors.

As any Formula 1 fan knows, it takes an expert driver and a finely tuned car to finish top of the podium in a Grand Prix. In business, the same rules apply. However committed your team and however clear your business vision, if the technology that underpins your business isn’t up to scratch, you risk losing ground to your competitors, or crashing out of the race altogether. Offering complete technological solutions including fully managed paperless offices to cloud hosting and business intelligence solutions, PMGC is the UK’s largest mobile management company, specialising in dynamic technological solutions that will revolutionise your business, helping you to work smarter and leave your competitors in your rear-view mirror. PMGC are the UK’s fastest growing mobile management providers, who have rapidly 114

become the largest provider of managed mobile technology services through their proven track record of delivering the most innovative and sophisticated technology solutions available for your business. An initial consultation with PMGC begins with an examination of your business’s existing technology and an in-depth assessment of your business needs. This will enable their expert advisors to assess your business needs. From this initial consultation, PMGC will then come up with individually tailored comprehensive technology solutions that will help you achieve everything you need. Their technical expertise and logical strategising will deliver the mobile management solutions that will revolutionise your business.

Managing Director of the group, Jason Yeomans, is passionate about customer service and proud of the standard of service PMGC offer. As with all aspects of his business, Jason isn’t afraid of thinking innovatively and devising unique approaches to traditional business problems. This attitude has seen him come at customer service from a completely different angle. “When most businesses decide to improve customer service, they focus all their attention on to the customer or client. We took a different approach. We have focussed on our staff, on recruiting the very best and then investing in them by offering the very best training and ensuring that we are always getting the best out of our expert employees. The impact on customer service has been huge: our employees

PMGC Help Businesses Work Smarter PMGC helped a leading West End Theatre work smarter by developing technology that enables the directors and cast to make script changes and notations on tablets during rehearsals. Helping to streamline the script amendment process, and assisting actors to make legible performance notes, the technology developed by PMGC assisted the efficiency of the creative process. As well as impacting on the quality of the finished product, with the time saved in typing up script changes reinvested into developing the production, the system developed by PMGC helped the theatre to reduce costs and improve efficiency. PMGC helped a council authority to develop a system of smart devices that

enabled school inspectors to work more efficiently when surveying over 350 schools in the local area. The mobilised efficiency developed by PMGC allowed the inspectors to complete their surveys in situ in the schools, rather than typing them up later, which has resulted in minimising error and improving productivity and quality. A further benefit of the system has been the ability for school inspectors to order essential equipment or produce for schools in real time during their visits, which means schools receive what they need faster, helping to improve the schools’ performance. Did you know it costs on average £9,000 for an employee to work from their desk in the office.

This is reduced to £6,000 if that employee is enabled to work remotely using mobile management devices while they are out of the office. This is further reduced to £3 ,000 if that employee is working from home permanently using mobile management to enable them to work remotely.

Jason Yeomans, Managing Director

4 Station Court Old Station Road Hampton in Arden Solihull, West Midlands B92 0HA knowledge@pmgroupuk.com www.pmgroupuk.com Our Locations: London, Solihull, Altrincham, Sunderland and Glasgow

are passionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing our clients with the correct solutions for their companies.” – Jason Yeomans, Managing Director, PMGC Technological solutions don’t simply help businesses to make existing practices more efficient, they also enable businesses to achieve things and embark on projects that they wouldn’t otherwise achieve. PMGC can assist businesses to grow and develop efficiently and effectively through hosting and data solutions that allow companies to radically improve their capability and scope without the large overheads associated with storing information on servers and new premises. By offering hosting solutions, PMGC are able to dramatically increase the scalability of your business, allowing you to take advantage of the

opportunities that are vital for ongoing business success. The uniquely effective strategic management approach offered by PMGC is backed up by their capability in the market. As the UK’s leading Vodafone Platinum Partner, One Net UC Installation Partner, Strategic Blackberry RIM Alliance Partner and an HTC Privilege Partner, PMGC are strategically positioned to present a unique offering to their clients. Business Intelligence and Mobile Managed Services from PMGC are designed to fundamentally change and improve business practices. They can implement sophisticated telecoms procedures, including monitoring for expenditure on personal calls. By implementing personal call declaration services, PMGC can

help ensure your business is VAT compliant as well as benefitting from cost savings. From the benefits of transferring business users to smartphones to paperless offices and cloud hosting solutions, PMGC can help to ensure a comprehensive technology platform for your business. As well as the benefits for cost savings, office functionality, efficiency and disaster recovery, these solutions also have a hugely positive impact on the environment. PMGC know what it takes to rapidly expand and grow, because they are the fastest growing mobile management business in the country. They know what technology it takes to grow fast and grow big, leaving you in the driver’s seat of what matters most: your business.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

PRESTIGE PROTECTION for elite and high profile celebrities

Certis Insurance team up with Champions (UK) Plc to safeguard the prestige properties of their elite and high profile celebrity clients. Hallmarks of success, trappings of status and the prestigious dream-lifestyle you’ve worked hard for, but most of all, a high-value home is somewhere you should feel safe and secure. Living in high value and prestigious homes is a great privilege, but it also brings with it responsibility. It’s essential to find an insurance policy that adequately protects the property, its contents and its occupants. In many cases, standard home insurance or contents cover won’t offer the required cover, since these policies generally aren’t written to cover things like fine art, antiques, expensive jewellery or domestic staff. When you live in a high-value property, you need to know that your home and your belongings are comprehensively insured to safeguard the lifestyle you want to lead. Nothing can beat the security and peace of mind of a dedicated expert broker to handle all of your insurance requirements, ensuring you always get a quality tailored service and the most favourable rates. Established in 1966, Certis Insurance specialise in offering tailored high net worth insurance policies. The experts at Certis Insurance understand that every individual has a unique situation. A dedicated expert will work hard to understand your circumstances and offer high value contents insurance and prestige home cover that matches your needs. On a day to day basis, Champions (UK) Plc deal with some of the country’s leading celebrities from the worlds of entertainment, sport and television, such as England football legend Peter Shilton OBE, Coronation Street star William Roache MBE and a stable of leading European Tour professional golfers looked after by the golf management division. These individuals require specialist insurance that meets their needs and the bespoke service of a broker who is an expert in the field. “Managing professional sports people and celebrities, we take pride in doing everything we can to ensure they are always looked after and we demand that everyone we work with does the same. The highly professional and friendly team at Certis Insurance always do everything to ensure all the insurance requirements of our clients are looked after. We can relax knowing that experts are looking after their complex and high value requirements and safeguarding their assets.” – Sophia Hayes, Sales Executive, Champions (UK) Plc 116

Certis Insurance is the ideal choice for sporting celebrities and other people in the public eye, who often suffer difficulty in getting the insurance they need. For example, many professional footballers and other sports people experience problems when looking to insure prestige cars. This is only more difficult when the client is of a young age such as 17,18 and 19 or if there are complex requirements such as multi-vehicle fleets and other potential issues. By dealing with insurers who specialise in insurance for professional footballers, Certis can ensure that vehicle requirements are included in a specialist insurance package, securing a deal that suits you, your cars and your lifestyle. Since every home is different, every high value home insurance policy should be too. The right cover will depend on the net worth of the property, its fixtures and fittings, as well as the assets included in and around the residence. Belongings like valuable jewellery, priceless antiques and pieces of fine art should be assessed by experts to ensure that they are adequately covered by the high value contents insurance, while collectibles, guns and expensive wines should also be properly evaluated. Having close ties with many of the most respected names in the insurance industry, such as Chartis, Chubb, Sterling, Zurich, Oak, Home and Legacy and Aviva, Certis are best placed to get you the insurance you need. The Certis Insurance service is also ideal if you are looking to insure a unique or unusual property, such as a property with a thatch roof, a riverside property, a heritage property or a property in flood plains. A manager from Certis will personally discuss your requirements and develop a bespoke insurance plan that will satisfy your needs and secure your assets. Since Certis have excellent relationships with their insurance underwriters, you can rely on them to negotiate some of the best rates available. Certis appreciate that just because you’re consulting high net worth insurance brokers doesn’t mean you should have to pay over the odds for the protection and peace of mind that the right cover will provide. When it comes to insurance, you want to be paying for the right cover that is specially tailored to your needs, your property and your lifestyle. As one of the country’s leading insurance brokers specialising in prestige household insurance, Certis Insurance are able to source the right insurance for the exact requirements of their clients and guarantee that they get the cover they need.

For more information: 0800 440 2410 www.certisinsurance.com Certis Insurance Brokers, Hornchurch Business Centre, 7 Station Lane, Hornchurch, Essex, RM12 6JL

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

VENTOLA PROJECTS LTD Shining a light on quality.

Ventola Projects are the East Midlands ultimate solution for high quality and impressive lighting installations. With projects undertaken from commercial units to luxurious retail spaces, Ventola Projects have been providing the very best in efficiency, service and quality for over twenty years. The firm are more than equipped to undertake any works, with such a large range of experience in many different workplace environments they really do offer the perfect solution for electrical lighting installations, shop-fitting requirements, metal and especially acrylic fabrication. Specialising in bespoke lighting solutions including energy efficient LED alternatives, Ventola Projects provides their extensive range of services to many retailers, commercial factories, entertainment centres and much more. They guarantee to provide their customers with the most efficient service and with minimal interruption to the business itself. Ventola Projects have recently brought their lighting solutions and shop-fitting services to Lumbers Jewellers in Leicester. As one of the region’s most exclusive and prestigious retailers of fine watches, gems and diamonds, Lumbers needed the very best lighting technology to give their jewels that extra sparkle. Ventola Projects were the perfect choice for the longstanding, family-run firm and installed a selection of LED lighting, outside awning and beautiful chandeliers in their Leicester showroom. The lighting supplied in the showroom provides the area with a beautiful lighting effect as well as substantial cost savings in energy consumption. All the lighting has been ideally placed to make the very most of Lumbers’ bespoke jewellery displays, highlighting key pieces and watches. For Lumbers, it was equally important to include light installations that evoke the elegance and luxury of their beautiful jewellery range. Lumbers decided on an understated but timeless collection of chandeliers, their

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simple design is reminiscent of the art deco style of the showroom and building, ensuring the new lighting continues the cohesion of the already beautiful showroom and jewellery. Dominic Gomersall, Managing Director of Lumbers, is thrilled with his new lighting installation from Ventola Projects Ltd. “Ventola Projects were a pleasure to deal with from start to finish. The immediate understanding and comprehending of our requirements to the integration of a new efficient and modern lighting solution was seamless. They have provided innovative results to a range of lighting problems to an industry that is finding it hard to replicate the brightness of conventional lighting instalments. The service was impeccable and I am pleased with the results of the work in the Lumbers’ showroom, VIP lounge and exterior. They offer innovative solutions and are flexible enough to be able to work with minimal interruption to their client’s workplace. I would recommend them to other businesses, providing the very best service and product choice.” With such wonderful reviews from their customers, it is not difficult to see why Ventola Projects really are one of the best providers of lighting solutions for commercial customers. Always adaptable and innovative, their lighting installations are unique and their systems are designed with each of their clients in mind.

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

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s r e k l a W r e p u S Our The annual Rainbows Walk of Life was another fantastic event which took place as part of Children’s Hospice Week. Our 600 plus superheroes walked either a heroic 15 miles or a more sedate five around Leicester, starting at Leicestershire County Cricket Club. The superheroes theme went down really well. For a five year old little girl called Olivia Furlong and her family, their challenge was to walk 5 miles in our Walk of Life. She set her sights on clocking up an impressive £50 target, with donations sprinting past the £600 mark in just a few weeks. To date she has raised over £1,500 and also raised awareness of why Rainbows is so important - something the family know firsthand. Olivia is a very special girl in many ways. Her brother needs a lot of specialist alist medical care and spends time in hospital, tal, butt Olivia never complains and does her best to help out where possible. She is truly a caring big sister who loves her little brother very much. Oliviaa has stayed at Rainbows with her brother er and the rest of the family and knows what an amazing place it is. Mum Ali, of Mickleover, said: “It was quite a big thing for her to do because she is still only little herself.” “But she was determined she wanted to do something to raise money for William and his little friends at Rainbows. She is such an amazing little girl.”

Join in Rainbows events at www.rainbows.co.uk/events or hold your own event.

Did it Again!

Olivia Furlong

The Spencer Family Why Your Support Would Mean so Much John and Naomi’s daughter, Chloe, who had complex needs which required round-the-clock care, passed away at Rainbows after battling an acute neurological disorder, cerebral palsy and suffering from underlying heart conditions.

Over the past two years Rainbows acted as a lifeline to the Spencers and as a result Naomi and John describe the staff as an extended family. Naomi said: “We were referred to Rainbows following a particularly difficult time when Chloe became incredibly unwell and spent six months in intensive care at Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Mum Naomi said: “Chloe was a fighter and she went on her own terms. She had made up her mind that she’d had enough.

“Their support meant so much to us, it provided myself and John with some respite, and gave Chloe the chance to enjoy new experiences and gain independence, while also allowing our younger daughter Hannah (6) to spend time with other children who had similar family backgrounds.”

“The family is just so thankful that she wasn’t in pain, that she was surrounded by carers who knew her well and that I got to be by her side when the moment came.” Chloe, who had been going to Rainbows since July 2010, was well-known for her irresistible smile and wicked sense of humour.

Chloe’s grandparents, Jill and Gerald Spencer, said: “We would like to thank everyone who has played their part in looking after Chloe and the family.

Dad John said: “She made everybody smile. Everyone she met she touched in some way, shape or form.”

“Without that support we would not have been able to enjoy all the good times so we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.”

Naomi added: “You could hear her before you saw her because she was always laughing.”

Angela Rippon’s Celebrity Luncheon was a Huge Success Rainbows was delighted when popular TV personality, Angela Rippon, OBE, agreed to be the guest speaker at our annual celebrity luncheon. We were even more thrilled when she agreed to become a Patron of the hospice. Angela has been a familiar face and voice in British broadcasting for 45 years. She talked about her career, which has embraced an impressive variety of programmes on both radio and television for both commercial and BBC stations in Britain, and for major networks in America and Australia. In the 2004 Queen’s Birthday Honours she was awarded an OBE. Over 300 of our supporters listened to Angela speak. Angela was so moved by Rainbows that she agreed to become a patron shortly after the luncheon. If you know any celebrities who would like to help Rainbows, please get in touch.

A Royal Visitor Joins In Our Hospice Week Fun Our Patrons Turn Out For William Roache’s Golf Day In spite of the torrential rain, Coronation Street star and Rainbows’ Patron, William Roache MBE, was joined by many of his celebrity friends for a wonderful day of entertainment. Organised by one of our biggest supporters, Champions (UK) Plc, guests were treated to a wonderful day of celebrities and entertainment. With the course flooded in the heavy rain that hit Leicestershire, the entertainment moved indoors, where Snooker Legend and Rainbows’ Patron Willie Thorne hosted a fascinating Q and A session with some of the impressive list of celebrities who turned out for the event. Other Patrons, including England’s most capped footballer ever Peter Shilton OBE and Matthew Hoggard MBE joined some of the celebrities who shared stories from their experiences at the very top of their sports.

Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra joined the children and young people as they finished their preparations for the charity’s Superhero Friday and annual Walk of Life, part of the national Children’s Hospice Week activity. The children were making superhero masks to be used on the days of fun and fundraising. The Princess was given a guided tour by our Chief Executive Geoff Ellis. Her Royal Highness heard from staff about the professional care and saw the wonderful therapy facilities. At the end of her visit Princess Alexandra was presented with a posy of flowers by Ellie Nemeth, aged six, who is a sister of Thomas who attends Rainbows. As she left, Princess Alexandra remarked on how marvellous the facilities at Rainbows are and what a wonderful atmosphere there was at the hospice. We hope her visit will inspire people to support Rainbows.

There are lots of ways to support Rainbows. To find out more, visit www.rainbows.co.uk or call 01509 638 000 123

CURTIS JOHNSON For your

LTD

BENTLEY SOLUTIONS

Bentley Trained Master Technician Specialising in Bentley, Rolls Royce & Other Prestige Vehicles. With 14 years of experience in the motor industry, leave your motor in the capable hands of Curtis Johnson. From restorations to complete customisations, Bentley Solutions offer a comprehensive, competitive service, provided by a reliable team of professionals. Curtis has recently been awarded his masters, making him a Bentley trained masters technician, and ever more able to create bespoke services that fit the needs of both individuals and companies who wish to have their Bentley motors and prestigious cars cared for. Curtis Johnson has recently moved into impressive and prestigious new premises in Leicester and he has Paul Horne working alongside him who is a Porsche technician. The relocation allows Curtis to expand his service to a wider range of clients across the Midlands, providing specialist care solutions for the world’s most desirable motors.

Mobile Assistance | Diagnostics | Mechanical And Technical Repair | Restorations Customisation Of Cars | Home Visits By Appointment | Advice And Support | Friendly Service | Competitive Pricing

www.bentleysolutions.co.uk Unit 10, Priory Business Park, Wistow Road, Kibworth, Leicestershire LE8 0RX info@bentleysolutions.co.uk | 0116 279 6480 | 07921 510203

A UNIQUE VENUE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY Matchday hospitality is the perfect way to make your matchday experience that little bit more special.

CONFERENCE & BANQUETING Meadow Lane is an excellent sports and leisure venue and the premier conference and events venue in Nottingham.

Notts County are offering a great value across our portfolio of match day hospitality packages.

All events are managed by The Lindley Group, who are experts in delivering a first class experience.

We are confident that once you have sampled the hospitality available here at Meadow Lane, you will want to take advantage of our great value packages throughout the season.

The great value-for-money location is fast becoming Nottingham's venue of choice for a multitude of events, including Christmas, weddings, private parties and business events.

COUNTY CONFERENCES & EVENTS A UNIQUE VENUE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

For further information please contact us on 0115 9529000 or visit www.countyconference.co.uk

St James’s Place Seminar at Bentley Wednesday, 28th March 2012 Elite business clients were treated to a client seminar in the magnificent surroundings of Leicester’s Bentley Showroom from Janine Edwards, Senior Partner at St James’s Place Wealth Management. During the event, Janine shared her in depth knowledge gleaned from more than 20 years in the wealth management industry. She began by addressing the market and economic situation of 2011 and furthered this by going on to discuss the economic outlook for 2012 and beyond. Following on from this, her talk featured specialist advice about investment strategies and inheritance tax planning. The latest in Janine Edwards’ highly popular client days, the event was a sociable and friendly environment in which to seriously engage with issues relating to wealth management, from a leading expert in the field. The St James’s Place Foundation is the charitable arm of the business, raising thousands of pounds for a wide range of charities doing fantastic work for important causes. In just one example of their dedication to charitable causes, Janine Edwards recently presented a cheque to Rainbows Hospice for £75,000 on behalf of the foundation for Rainbows, the only hospice in the East Midlands dedicated to caring for children and young people with life-limiting and lifethreatening conditions.

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

Paul Karslake entertains guests on the evening

Paul Karslake, Matthew Hayes

Gourmet Dinner The Lace Market Hotel, Nottingham Thursday, 26th April 2012 On 26th April, guests gathered to enjoy cocktails and Champagne in the atmospheric basement area of the Cock and Hoop pub at Lace Market Hotel before being guided upstairs to the renowned Merchants restaurant for a magnificent gourmet dinner.

Saroj Ekanayake, John Robinson, Andrew Chapman, Rob Spencer, Sean Akins, David Powell

Tim Roberts, Steve Bliss, Philippa Dempster, Mark Shaw, David Potter

After an introduction from Alastair Wesson of RSM: Tenon, the artist Paul Karslake entertained guests with his unique approach to after dinner speaking when he shared tales from his encounters with Rock and Roll greats while producing a painting live during the dinner. As the brother-in-law of Ronnie Wood, and an artist to the stars, Paul Karslake has mixed in some of the most exalted celebrity circles, and the painting he produced was a portrait of none other than film star Sir Michael Caine. After the dinner, this item was auctioned for charity, with Matthew Hayes from Champions (UK) Plc the eventual winner of the item. This sensational evening was sponsored by RSM:Tenon, The Finesse Collection, Freeth Cartwright, Lumbers, blusource, The NE Group, FHP Property Consultants.

Leicester’s Finest Jewellers

Sandy Scott, Alistair Wesson, Paul Gooding

Neil Footitt, Abraze Khalique, Paul Greasley

Dominic Gomersall, Steve Hollingsworth, Sophia Hayes, Malcolm Pheby

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Alistair Wesson

Paul Karslake

Building Young Entrepreneurs: The Fox’s Lair® Mini Oscars Night Thursday, 3rd May 2012 Brand communications agency Champions (UK) Plc and De Montfort University joined forces for The Fox’s Lair®. The Mini Oscars was supported by over 35 entrepreneurs, or ‘foxes’, from all over the UK, who were involved in judging 75 business groups over 2 weeks, culminating in the Mini Oscars, to congratulate all of the students who had taken part, led by Module Leader Edwina Goodwin. Winners of first prize on the evening were Glampon, a discreet female hygiene container developed by Poppy Allen, Eve Cong, Jermaine Agyeman, Callum Bergin and Tom Zarczynski. Other prizes in the evening included ‘Cacao’ drinking chocolate houses by Thomas Eglesfield, Jamie O’Meara, Hiren Patel and Victoria Meredith and ‘Motion Clean’ modern lotion motion dispenser for bathrooms developed by David Scull, Arun Sehgal, Faseeha Seedat and Charles Scogings, which shared second place. Edwina Goodwin from De Montfort University is the Module Leader of the Fox’s Lair and is passionate about encouraging students to develop their skills as enthusiastic, hard working, and entrepreneurial individuals. This is part of a wider initiative from De Montfort University that combines the expertise of businesses and business leaders with the academic learning that takes place in the course. These skills will not only ‘add value’ to the students’ offering to future employers but also give them the grounding to start their own business venture when they graduate. Led by De Montfort University, the project develops many important skills in students, including creativity, confidence, communication, team work, an awareness of enterprise and its importance, and, of course, entrepreneurial thinking. After the event, the Foxes and the winners enjoyed a dinner at Leicester’s spectacular Hotel Maiyango.

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Laura, Ian & Clare Mattioli

Ruth Lorenzo and Peter Edwards

Anniversary Ball East Midlands Conference Centre Guests from Toyota Manufacturing

Friday, 4th May 2012 On Friday 4th May, Blusource Chairman Andrew Springhall and event organisers Champions (UK) Plc held a spectacular ball at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham in celebration of ChildLine’s 25th Anniversary.

Ruth Lorenzo, Mark Slaviero

Andrew Springhall

Snooker star Willie Thorne was host for the evening, and speaker Ellen Gigg gave a speech on behalf of the NSPCC, before singing sensation Ruth Lorenzo dazzled guests with her breathtaking ballads. Party band Groove Nation rounded off the evening in fine style, providing the perfect backdrop as guests danced the night away! Sponsored by blusource, Mattioli Woods and Toyota, fundraising activities included stand up bingo, an Elvis themed prize draw and charity auction, all of which helped to raise an incredible £10,000 for ChildLine.

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

James & Carol Warne, Charles & Shirley Bentley

Willie Thorne

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Rachel and Thorton Wells

Ruth Lorenzo

Lindsey & David Doughty, Donna & John Hayes

Martin Ward, Alan McInally, Chris Darlington, Gareth John

Martin Smith, Pete Wood, Greg Allen, Andy Breeze

A Fantastic Charity Golf Day with RSM Tenon Thursday, 10th May 2012 RSM Tenon, one of the UK’s most progressive accountancy firms hosted their extremely popular annual golf day at Rushcliffe Golf Club in East Leake with footballing legend Alan McInally and former England Rugby star John Bentley, helping to raise money for Loughborough-based charity Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. After a fantastic day of competitive golf, the winners were announced with Bob Johnson, Phil Duffin, Chris Woods and Leslie Gibson taking first place for a fantastic signed picture of Olympic legend Daley Thompson and Nick Bywater, Mike Tulley, David Hill and Geoff Unwin taking a well-deserved second place.

Steve Brown, Alistair Hunt

Darryn Evan, Paul Bevan, David Carlton-Ashton, Nigel Winkett

The charity aspect of the competition took place on the putting green which hosted the longest putt contest. Chris Woods won the bottle of champagne with an incredible putt measuring 58ft 5inch, helping to raise £590 for Rainbows. Chris Darlington, Director for RSM Tenon, was delighted with the day, “I am pleased to say the event was a great success. We had a fantastic day at the beautiful Rushcliffe Golf Club and I am thrilled that we managed to raise such a substantial amount of money for this incredibly worthy cause.”

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social Chris Darlington

Alan McInally, John Bentley

Michael Quinn

Paul Bartram, Paul Pownall, Basil Palmer, James Taylor

Bob Johnson, Leslie Gibson, Phil Duffin, Chris Woods

An evening with Anton and Erin

An Evening with Anton and Erin East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham Friday, 25th May 2012

Erin Boag, Anton De Beke

BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing stars Anton and Erin were guests of honour at a glamorous celebration of ballroom dancing at the East Midlands Conference Centre, helping to raise a toe-tapping £10,000 for local charity Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

Anton De Beke, Roxy Hayes, Lauren Shaw, Rachel Richardson, Erin Boag

Erin Boag, Anton De Beke

The event was hosted by former World Senior Masters Snooker Champion and BBC commentator Willie Thorne, who brought his trademark wit and panache to the proceedings and contributed to the fantastic amount raised for charity by conducting the charity auction. Organised by Champions (UK) Plc, this sparkling evening was generously sponsored by Moir Wade Design, Lumbers Jewellers, S G Property Services and Mattioli Woods, and featured further entertainment from dance band Groove Nation. Moir Wade Design PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

Erin Boag, Anton De Beke

Shelley Garden, Willie Thorne, Katharine Donnelly

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Erin Boag, Heather Ried, Alice Haslam, Jeanette Lies, Kirstie Danzey, Gayle Timmins, Anton De Beke

Erin Boag, Anton De Beke

Alec Stewart OBE

Alec Stewart OBE, Mike Procter, Paul Addison, Geoff Miller, Willie Thorne

An Evening with Alec Stewart OBE Annual charity cricket dinner King Power Stadium, Leicester Chris Hurd, Paul Lewin, Paul Wade, Ian Caldwell, Matt Wade, Roger Wade, Will Moir, Jamie Lee, Willie Thorne, Jonathan Wade, Terry Walker

Thursday, 14th June 2012 Former England cricket star Alec Stewart OBE entertained over 400 guests at the King Power Stadium, in a fantastic evening’s entertainment organised by Champions (UK) Plc. Leading sporting celebrities and influential members of the business community turned out to pay tribute to Stewart, England’s most capped cricketer of all time in test matches.

Jon Kicks, Adrian Stenson, Ed Nurse, Simon Lindley, Dave King, Mike Tuhme David Prince, Tony Wilson, Alec Stewart OBE, Chris Darlington, Mark Whitney

Martin Palmer, Clare Hill, Sally Price ,Jodie Newman, Fayyaz Jamal F, Kate Blank, Rob Hughes, Mike Procter, Simon Bradley

The evening was hosted with his trademark humour by fellow former England star Geoff Miller, and further entertainment was provided by South African cricketing legend Mike Procter. A charity auction was hosted by legendary snooker star Willie Thorne, helping to raise valuable funds for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, thanks to generous sponsorship from sponsors RSM Tenon, Harvey Ingram LLP, Handelsbanken, Uptonsteel, Mattioli Woods, Moir Wade Design Ltd and Lumbers. ASPIRATIONAL magazine

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Geoff Miller with the Harvey Ingram Table

James & Alan Upton and guests

Moir Wade Design Ltd

Alec Stewart OBE, James Coles

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Geoff Miller, Mike Procter

Geoff Miller, Lauren Shaw, Tim Lee and Alec Stewart OBE

Chris Darlington, Mike Procter

Jack Hayes, John Lamb, Helen Lamb, John Hayes, Frank Lamb

An Evening with Geoff Miller At the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham Pete Wood, Paul White, Alistair Wesson, David Carlton-Ashton, Paul Bevan, Andrew Springhall

Thursday, 21st June 2012 England cricket legend Geoff Miller was celebrated in a star-studded evening at East Midlands Conference Centre, sponsored by RSM Tenon, Handelsbanken, Mattioli Woods, Nottingham Post and Aspirational Magazine.

Connor Doughty, Mike Procter, David Doughty

Special guests that turned out to pay tribute to Geoff included host for the evening, Snooker legend Willie Thorne, and cricket stars Mike Procter and Peter Bowler, who entertained guests with stories and anecdotes from the world of cricket, including some hilarious tales from Geoff himself. There was also a charity auction conducted by BBC celebrity auctioneer Charlie Ross. The auction helped to raise valuable funds for two superb charities: Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People and The Lord’s Taveners, who help to give young people, especially those with special needs, a sporting chance. To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Mark Worrall, Michael Temple, Benny Lawrence, James Brown, Chris Stephenson, Amelia Benskin, Lisette Maas, Rebecca Dakin

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

Geoff Miller PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Anthony Barrowcliffe, Alicia Adcock, Willie Thorne

Ian Guyler, Roger Summerton, James Tamplin, Craig Kay, Angela Shaw, Julian Lawrence, Nic Olsen

Geoff Miller

Willie Thorne, Gordon Greenidge MBE

William Roache MBE

Matthew Hoggard MBE

William Roache MBE Golf Classic Rushcliffe Golf Club Thursday, 28th June 2012 Celebrity players

In spite of June’s torrential rain, Coronation Street star William Roache MBE was joined by many of his celebrity friends for a wonderful day of entertainment at Rushcliffe Golf Club.

Anthony Benskin, Jayne Tarr, Tim Dunbar, William Roache MBE, Stephen Nottridge and David Pagett-Wright

Peter Bowler

Organised by Champions (UK) Plc, headline sponsor Moss Solicitors and accountants with MHA MacIntyre Hudson as Champagne reception sponsor. Trick shot expert Tricky Rob put on an amazing display and Willie Thorne hosted a Q&A with sporting legends including Peter Shilton OBE, Doddie Weir, Gordon Greenidge MBE, and Bob Champion MBE. Alongside the sporting entertainment, former Black Abbots star Clive Abbot performed a number of songs, mind reader Graham Jolley baffled guests with the extraordinary power of his mind and comedian and musician Steve Womack rounded off the proceedings with a hilarious set. All proceeds from the event went to benefit Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

Peter Shilton OBE, Willie Thorne

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social Steve Womack

Mike Procter, David Pagett Wright

Graham Jolley

Tricky Rob

Aspirational Wine Tasting The Pastures, Woodhouse Thursday, 19th April 2012 Aspirational magazine hosted a magnificent wine and Champagne tasting evening on the 26th April, in association with Charles Mitchell Wines, Finesse Hospitality and Bentons. Held in The Pastures, a spectacular mansion in Woodhouse, harpist Iona Thomas entertained guests in the poolhouse of the mansion, while experts from Charles Mitchell Wines were on hand to guide guests through their hand-picked selection of exquisite bottles, including fine Champagne. Renowned Chef Dean Crews from Opulence Restaurant at Derby’s Cathedral Quarter Hotel prepared a spectacular feast of Lobster in a live cooking demonstration, while guests also enjoyed a magnificent selection of cheeses carefully chosen to match the fine wines. Guests included leading business figures, including members of the Aspirational network from Lumbers, St James’s Place Wealth Management, Donington Park, Bentley, Champions (UK) Plc, The Finesse Collection, Bentons and Berkeley Insurance Group.

Chris Pacey from Charles Mitchell Wines

Assam Cup Polo Charity Day Rutland Polo Club Friday, 8th July 2012 Guests from the Aspirational Club, including representatives from Lumbers, St James’s Place Wealth Management, Donington Park, Bentley, Champions (UK) Plc, The Finesse Collection, Bentons and Berkeley Insurance Group, greatly enjoyed a fantastic day of hospitality at Rutland Polo Club. With a glamorous Champagne reception, stunning Bentley cars on display and friendly polo matches in place of the Cup which could not be contested due to adverse conditions, there was plenty to do before the delicious lunch provided by the fabulous Hambleton Hall near Oakham. After lunch, there was a charity auction in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support and the quintessentially English indulgence of afternoon tea in the VIP Bentley Hospitality area.

A glorious country pursuits day Noseley Hall, Billesdon Wednesday, 12th September 2012 Members of the Aspirational Club and guests enjoyed a glorious day of traditional country pursuits in the luxurious surroundings of the beautiful Noseley Hall in Billesdon. The day commenced with teams battling it out over a series of traditional challenges, including: duck herding, muzzle-loader and flintlock shooting, archery and clay pigeon shooting. A sumptuous lunch was provided by Finesse Hospitality and paved the way for more action. The afternoon culminated in the magnificent sport of GNAT shooting. The GNAT is the ultimate moving target for the shotgun - a remote control plane flown by an experienced pilot with full control of speed, height and angles. Flashpods on the underside register hits and the GNAT can even be shot down, resulting in spectacular crashes! This was followed up by delicious afternoon tea, a fitting end to a great opportunity to socialise in the beautiful late summer countryside, the Aspirational Club Country Pursuits Day was a great success.

To see more or to download images from these events go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Ken Fletcher, Glynn Bagley, Sally Brooks, Dave Stockhill, Rob Watson

BERKELEY I N S U R A N C E

G R O U P

Adrian & Mandy Hancock

Iona Thomas

Dominic Gomersall and John Hayes

James Warne and guests

Julian Saunders and guest

Dean Crews

Michelle Dilley and Raj Pragji

John Cavendish and Janine Edwards

Tim Maxted

Nick Anderson, Chris Greenwell, Rebecca Morrell, Mike Tuhme

Dominic Gomersall, Michelle Dilley, Ceri Smith, Paul Harris, Mrs Margaret Campbell, Peter Humm, Dr George Campbell

Simon Fleet

James Warne

Leicester’s Finest Jewellers

BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP Majestic Golf and Magnificent Celebrities Cap a Spectacular 2012 Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

Tony Jacklin CBE

7th-10th August 2012 D J Russell Claims the £15,000 First Prize as he Tore the Field Apart at a Baking Nailcote Hall For four straight days, the Cromwell Course at Nailcote Hall in Warwickshire was bathed in glorious August sunshine as golfing legends, current tour stars and celebrities alike gathered in the Midlands for an action packed week of golfing excellence, drama and entertainment on the course widely considered as the best Par 3 course in the world. Over 5,000 spectators poured into the Warwickshire course over the championship, which is co-organised by Champions (UK) Plc and Nailcote Hall. The superb field of players at this year’s championship was spear-headed by Tony Jacklin CBE, Ian Woosnam OBE and Alison Nicholas MBE, making the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship undoubtedly the world’s leading tournament for Par 3 golf. Between them, the players that gathered at Nailcote Hall boasted an impressive 8 major titles and over 200 European Tour, European Senior Tour, PGA Tour, Champions Tour and Challenge Tour titles.

Eric Herd, DJ Russell

In this Ryder Cup year, there was also a special emphasis on Ryder Cup legends and the illustrious field had competed in a massive 38 Ryder cups, including 6 Ryder cup trophies and 2 Ryder cup captains. The strength of the international field who gathered at Nailcote Hall was better than ever this year, including players from around the world, including Jamaica’s three time World Cup of Golf player Delroy Cambridge, Zimbabwe’s 6-time European Tour winner Tony Johnstone and former US Senior Open Champion Larry Laoretti, from the USA. Ireland was represented by 8 time winner on the European Tour, Des Smyth and Golf Channel Big Break Ireland 2011 winner Mark Murphy. On the first day of the championship, celebrities battled it out alongside amateur partners for the Celeb-Am prize and also an individual celebrity tournament. This was won by six-time Walker Cup player and European Senior Tour star Gary Wolstenholme MBE.

Peter Bowler, William Roache MBE

With the Sky Sports cameras rolling, professional and amateur competitors alike would have been forgiven for feeling a little nervous as they took to the course for the Pro-Am competition. With SkyBet offering odds for the professional winner for the first time in the event’s history, the odds were definitely on for a fantastic tournament. It was Jamega Tour regular Simon Lilly, from Wellingborough, who made the greatest impression on the first day leaderboard, shooting a sensational -7 47 to take a three shot lead into the final day of the Pro-Am. Wednesday Night is the Players Banquet, an opportunity for competitors, celebrities and VIPs to relax together and enjoy fantastic food and entertainment. Willie Thorne hosted an intimate Question and Answer with Tony Jacklin CBE and Ian Woosnam OBE, a fascinating insight into what it takes to perform at the very top of the game, winning major championships and captaining Europe to Ryder Cup success. This was followed by a magnificently raucous and hilarious set by legendary stand-up Bobby Davro. Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship VENUE HOST

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Larry Laoretti, Tommy Horton MBE

Larry Laoretti, Alison Nicholas MBE, Tony Jacklin CBE Matthew Hoggard MBE

Tony Jacklin CBE, Willie Thorne, Ian Woosnam OBE

On Thursday record numbers of spectators arrived at the course to watch stars such as Tony Jacklin CBE, Ian Woosnam OBE, Brian Barnes, Alison Nicholas MBE, Tommy Horton MBE, Maurice Bembridge, Gary Boyd, Marc Warren, Tommy Fleetwood, Scott Drummond, Andrew Oldcorn and home favourite Mark Mouland. When the leaders went out on Thursday afternoon, the stage was set for a classic climax and they certainly didn’t disappoint. A burst from two time winner on the European Tour D J Russell put him in pole position to win the £15,000 top prize. Russell was playing exceptional golf, especially at the finish, securing birdies at the 14th, 15th and 17th, to finish the round on -8, three shots clear of Lilly on -5 and a further two shots clear of Wolstenholme and Murphy on -3. claiming the £15,000 first prize. The Super Seniors prize for the leading player over the age of 60 was won by 6-time Ryder Cup player Brian Barnes, who played superbly consistent golf over the two days of the championship to finish on level par, one shot clear of Larry Laoretti and two shots clear of fellow former Ryder Cup stars Tommy Horton MBE and Malcolm Gregson. The victory was particularly emotional for Barnes, who was playing in his first professional tournament for 12 years after having to retire due to Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is now in remission.

Jasper Carrott OBE, Brian Barnes

David Heeley, Colin Scandle, Ron Atkinson, Graham Hampton-Smith

Peter Shilton OBE

At the other end of her career, the Norma C Herd Silver Salver for the leading amateur in the competition was won by Curtis Cup star Charley Hull, on a score of -1 for the two days. The Halliwell Cup for the Pro-Am team was won by D J Russell and his partner James Graham, with Simon Lilly and his partner Graham Curtin finishing in second spot. Mark Murphy continued his impressive form from the previous day with a -4 score of 50, which was enough to hold off competition from Gary Wolstenholme and former Manchester United footballer Clayton Blackmore to secure the Celeb Am prize, which he handed over to Blackmore in a wonderful gesture of sportsmanship.

Spectators enjoying the golf and weather

Ian Woosnam OBE

On both Tuesday and Friday evenings, Nailcote Hall hosted glamorous Celebrity Charity Balls. With Snooker legend Willie Thorne as master of ceremonies for the evenings, a huge amount of money was raised for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, through fundraising activities including a charity auction with sensational sporting and celebrity memorabilia and truly “money can’t buy” prizes, including a hospitality package to see George Michael at the NEC, tickets to see Piers Morgan’s Life Stories being filmed and a chance to play the new Trump Course in Aberdeen with 1999 Open Champion Paul Lawrie MBE. Just some of the breathtaking array of celebrities who participated in the championship over the course of the four days this year included Strictly Come Dancing star Len Goodman, football legends Peter Shilton OBE, Peter Schmeichel MBE, Matthew Le Tissier, Alan McInally, Peter Withe and John Jensen, cricket legends Mike Procter and Matthew Hoggard MBE and comedian Jasper Carrott OBE. To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Peter Schmeichel MBE, Rick Cressman

Christine Jacklin, Astrid Jacklin, Tony Jacklin CBE, Tina Dortmans

John Robertson, Peter Shilton OBE, Neal Footit, Liam O’Kane

Willie Thorne, Scott Loache, 2BM and Guests

Dino and Pete with Steve and Kay Adlington

SPORTS AWARDS 2012 in association with Adam Beazeley, Sam Oldham, Liam O’kane

Jonathan Hamblett, Karen Knight, Chris Jagger, Lasse Hagberg

Celebrating Sport Thursday, 4th October 2012 Katie Bartlett, Emma Bartlett, Carl Froch, Evie Poxon

Taking place at East Midlands Conference Centre, the inaugural Nottingham Post Sports Awards 2012 was a magnificent showcase of the very best achievements from both professional and amateur sport.

Jenny Wye, Peter and Harriett Lee, Gary Blair

In a wonderful spectacle of sport organised by brand communications agency Champions (UK) Plc, the awards recognised the stars who have shone brightest throughout the year. Co-hosted by Snooker legend and star of Strictly Come Dancing Willie Thorne and glamorous ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson, awards were presented by some of the region’s best and biggest sporting names.

Charlotte Holmes, Jimmy Smith, Claire Starkey, Des Walker and Chris Jagger

After the awards, soul star Andy Abraham took guests on a spectacular journey back through the golden years of music, performing a selection of timeless classics from legends such as Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Billy Paul, and a selection of his own contemporary hits.

Nottingham Panthers with Carl Froch and Alistair Wesson

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Peter Shilton OBE, Chris Broad (on behalf of Andre Adams, Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann) & Dr Nik Kotecha

Emma Jesson

Willie Thorne

Karen Hickling, Hamza Bencherif (on behalf of Jeff Hughes), Matt Green and Chris Read

Philippa Dempster, Carl Froch, Sunny Singh (on behalf of Lee Westwood), Chris Broad

Hema Baazaz

Headline Sponsor

Young Sportsperson of the Year SAM OLDHAM

ASPIRATIONAL magazine

Under 19/ School Team Of The Year

William Roache MBE, John Robertson, Harriett Lee, Jonathan Lawson

NOTTINGHAM ROWING CLUB JUNIOR SQUAD

Community Award NOTTS COUNTY FOOTBALL CLUB

Impact on Life Award JIMMY SMITH

Club of the Year BEESTON HOCKEY CLUB

John Robertson, Paul Cox, Corey Neilson, Adrian Mee

Team Of The Year NOTTINGHAM PANTHERS

The Ten Years of Achievement Award NATHAN ROBERTSON

Nottinghamshire Professional Rugby Club Player of the Year DAVID JACKSON Craig Phillips, Steve Hill, Stuart Mather, Richard Hounslow

Nottinghamshire Professional Cricketer of the Year ANDRE ADAMS

Nottingham Professional Footballer of the Year JEFF HUGHES

Brian Clough OBE Coach/Manager of the Year PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

COREY NEILSON

Sportswoman Of The Year

Hamza Bencherif, Tom Reynolds, Yoann Arquin, Kate Dewhirst and Sam Oldner

REBECCA ADLINGTON

Sportsman Of The Year CARL FROCH

Lifetime Achievement Award JOHN ROBERTSON James Hayter, James Arlidge, David Jackson, Nick Rouse (on behalf of Craig Hammond) and Sam Oldham

Nick Gibson, Maxine Gibson, Jason Hale, Joanne Hale, Willie Thorne, Monika Hans, Gary Hans

Andy Abraham, Karl Ottley, Helen Ottley, Sue Barker, Richard Thompson, Willie Thorne, John Freeman

Big band extravaganza at St James’s Place annual ball raises £50,000 Friday, 21st September 2012 This year’s St. James’s Place annual charity ball was a big band extravaganza which took place at Leicester’s King Power Stadium. After a sumptuous 3 course meal, guests were transported by Andy Abraham and his spectacular swing orchestra back to when every dance hall was a ballroom filled with the driving pulse of quick rhythm percussion and the cool whirr of the brass section.

Carmen Willis, Willie Thorne, Jody Greenall

Joining Andy and the big band was snooker star and Strictly Come Dancing favourite Willie Thorne who was host for the evening. Meanwhile, BBC’s ‘Flog It!’ resident auctioneer Charlie Ross ensured sure everyone delved deep into their pockets during the auction for the fantastic charity lots, helping to raise as much money as possible for the nominated charities: Rainbows and St James’s Place Foundation.

Liz Robinson, Willie Thorne, Paul Robinson

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Andy Abraham

Paul Barker, Danielle Barker, Andrew Eastgate, Jane Eastgate, Willie Thorne, Peter Wall, Lauren Middleton, Sharon Bruck, Karl Bruck

Jacqueline Wood, Willie Thorne, Roy Wood

Paul Geddes, Willie Thorne, Tracey Geddes

Barisons swing band

Rapinder Samra, Willie Thorne, Pip Samra

Gareth Dyer, Willie Thorne, Rachel Dyer

Memorabilia

Andy Abraham, Janine Edwards, Peter Edwards, Willie Thorne

Nichola (Nic) Williams, Willie Thorne, Dean Williams

Barisons swing band

John Kiely, Linda Moss, Matt Freer, Nello Patrone

Cliff Van-Hien & Chris Scotney

The Store

Christopher Scotney Designer Menswear Celebrates 40 Years of Success Sunday, 14th October 2012

Chris our pianist

Christopher Scotney Mens Designer Wear held a party at their store on London Road to celebrate 40 years of success. Over 350 guests and associates from the store’s Designer Wear Brands celebrated with champagne, canapés, live music, and magic. A prize draw was held featuring exclusive prizes donated by the likes of Giorgio Armani, Hugo Boss and Paul Smith.

Roy Brearley, Chris Scotney & Alan Upton

Chris was overwhelmed by the support for this event, his shop was filled to the rafters. “I want to express my gratitude to all my fabulous customers for their support over the years, and to my team. The last 40 years have been a blast, and I’m looking forward to continuing to provide the finest designer menswear to the people of Leicestershire and beyond.” The event raised a substantial amount for Loros.

Raj Patel & Nilesh Patel

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.aspirational.uk.com/social

Ann Scotney, Mr Rushton, Chris Scotney & Mrs Rushton

Christopher Scotney Designer Menswear 130, London Road, Leicester, LE2 1EB 0116 254 3957 www.christopherscotney.co.uk Photography by www.edbrownphotography.co.uk

Fabricio, Steffano, Anna of Giorgio Armani & Chris Scotney

Chris Scotney, Andres Sardi & Ann Scotney

Duncan Green, Vanessa Lawson, Chris Scotney & Anna Scotney

40 Years

Danny Gallacher & Chris Scotney

The Scotney team

Alan Upton, Robert Lawson, Roy Brearley & Sean Machin

Stuart Austin of Pal Zileri & Sean Curtis

Sam Harvey of Paul Smith & Chris Scotney

Duncan Green & Mick Henson

Andy Hubbard & Sean Machin

Charlie Prentice Chris’s Grandson

Leon Polydorou & Sean Curtis

Keith Riseborough, Vanessa Lawson. Kevin Downing, Jenny Riseborough & Moira Downing

Chris Scotney & Walton George

Chris Scotney, Helen Butterfield & Sean Curtis

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