Concept Stamford March 2015 by Concept Stamford

MARCH 2015

6THINGS

THE PERFECT MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

TO DO THIS MOTHER’S DAY HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS

LOCAL HIGH STREET

HERO

SELL YOUR HOUSE FASTER

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 1

March in the

Garden Special 20/02/2015 16:35:12

C R E AT E Y O U R P E R F E C T H O M E W I T H U S

Specialist Suppliers And Installers Of Conservatories, Orangeries, Windows And Doors

COME AND VISIT OUR BEAUTIFUL SHOWROOM Showroom: Unit 1 Meadow View Business Units Uffington Road, Stamford PE9 2EX T: 01780 753 343 F: 01780 482 926 E: orchardwindows@live.co.uk www.orchardwindows.co.uk Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm & Saturday 9am - 1pm

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 2

20/02/2015 09:10:13

7($0 :25. )520 7+( 7($0 7+$7 :25.6 O= :=DA=N= AF >9AJ >==K >GJ 9DD OAL@ K=JNA;=K <=KA?F=< 9JGMF< QGMJ F==<K

O= G>>=J AFL=?JALQ$ CFGOD=<?= 9F< =PH=JLAK= =N=JQ KL=H G> L@= O9Q

GMJ AEHJ=KKAN= E9JC=L K@9J= AK L=KL9E=FL LG GMJ HJG9;LAN= 9F< >G;MKK=< 9HHJG9;@

O= >GDDGO 9 ;GJ= K=L G> N9DM=K LG =FKMJ= L@= <=DAN=JQ G> =P;=HLAGF9D ;DA=FL ;9J=

0DNH /HWWLQJV :RUN )RU <RX ;Ydd Gmj L]Ye Fgo Lg >af\ Gml @go

%RXUQH DQG 6WDPIRUG 7HDP @]Y\ G^^a[]$ ), Fgjl` Klj]]l$ :gmjf]$ H=)( 19: L2 ()//0 ,*..-/ ' ()/0( /*0((3HWHUERURXJK DQG 'HHSLQJ 7HDP :gmjf] Yf\ KlYe^gj\ L]Ye )))( Daf[gdf JgY\$ O]jjaf_lgf$ H=, .:H L2 ()/++ +*+((( ' ()//0 ,*..-/ ), Fgjl` Kl$ :gmjf]$ H=)( 19: L2 ()//0 ,*..-/ ' ()/0( /*0((-

]fimaja]k8jgk]\Yd]d]llaf_k&[ge ooo&jgk]\Yd]d]llaf_k&[ge Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 3

20/02/2015 09:58:34

INSIDE 7

News-In-Brief

23 Gift Ideas

High Street Hero

24 Beauty News

Keep up to date

This month we take a look at the history of Harrison & Dunn

12 Sell Your House Faster

Tips to help you sell your home from Nest Estates

14 Club Spotlight

We take a look at the Stamford squash club

21 6 Things To Do

This Mother’s Day

See our 6 things to do locally on Sunday 15 March

29 23

Treat your mum to something special this mother’s day

The perfect products for beautiful hair and skin

27 IPL Hair Reduction

An effective way to remove unwanted hair

29 Add Energy To

Your Wardrobe

Find the perfect pair of jeans

32 The Womens Institute

Celebrating the centenary of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI)

4 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 4

20/02/2015 16:05:16

Welcome to the

March Issue

3 36 A Pub At The Heart Of The Community A business profile on the Royal Oak

55 Yoga For Everyone

Looking at the benefits of Yoga

58 Book Review

What to read this month

41 March In The Garden

Get your garden ready for spring

44 Bring Your

Garden To Life

Products that will help you with your everyday gardening needs

49 Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend

A profile on Denhams Jewellers

52 Kenya

Tailor made holidays from Stamford Independant Travel

60 Baby Talk

What’s on for bump, babies and tots

62 Little Miss Adventures Hills and Holes at Barnack

63 Starting Secondary

School This September Advice on how the process works

66 Blogging Masterclass Tips and pointers for making the most of your blog

here’s definitely a feel of spring around Stamford now. The snowdrops have given way to daffodils and there’s even blossom on some of the cherry trees now. We’re all looking forward to the weather getting warmer. With spring in the air we welcome Debbie Cook of Creative Garden Design to our team. Debbie is an award-winning garden designer and over the coming months she’ll be sharing her secrets and top tips for getting the most out of your garden. In this issue we celebrate 100 years of the Women’s Institute by taking a look at the history of this organisation and some of the inspiring women behind this success story. This month we introduce the first in a series of articles focussing on our high street heroes. These are the shops that sit in the town centre for decades quietly serving the needs of their loyal customers, those family businesses who are as permanent features as the very pavements themselves. We look at the history of Harrison and Dunn and the generations that have been involved in the success of this local company. Mother’s Day is also this month, so we have some ideas of things to do with mum on this day, as well as a few gift ideas. Enjoy getting out and about this spring.

The Concept Team produced by: Concept2Design telephone: 01778 423813 email: info@concept2design.co.uk www.conceptmagazine.co.uk All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, scanned or copied without prior permission of the publisher. The reader acknowledges that the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. Any written material or pictures supplied by contributors are published in good faith and on the understanding that they are free from any copyright or other restrictions. Concept Magazine accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from errors or the late appearance or nonpublication of any advertising. The publisher reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertisement or written material without prior explanation. MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 5

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 5

20/02/2015 16:05:21

News - in - brief What’s TRENDING Who’s making headlines this month? Gaynors expand into handbags

FLARES ARE COMING BACK!

Julia and Keith, partners of Gaynor Jewellers in Stamford Walk, are looking forward to the opening of their new handbag store which will be adjacent to their jewellery store. Julia said: “We are so excited about the new store. We will be stocking a wide range of designer bags from such brands as Follie and Lupo to name but a few.” Gaynor Handbags opens its doors on 14 March.

It’s the decade that fashion forgot – and surely flares are the trousers to prove it. Forever synonymous with all things Seventies, they scream glam-rock, platform boots… and Noddy Holder. But, they’re making a comeback and they’re coming to a High Street store near you! Will you be stepping on in a pair of swinging bell bottoms? Or maybe a widelegged flare? Do you dare to flare this spring?

Flawless Faces and Pots of Fun on the move Flawless Faces is relocating from its present location above Browns Hair Salon to bigger premises at 17-18 Scotgate (former Pots of Fun shop). Neeta Matharu, owner of the company, says: “We’ve outgrown our existing site and the opportunity to take on this location was just too good to miss.” Neeta will be welcoming new members to the team and will be expanding the range of services and treatments available to clients. Neeta and the team will be open for business on 18 March. Meanwhile, Pots of Fun is moving to the Love Stamford centre in the Corn Exchange and will open on 2 March.

Stamford Travel welcome new team member Nicola Clare joins the existing team with a wealth of experience in the travel industry. Emma Bate, director said: “We are so excited that Nicola has joined our team, she has so much experience in the travel industry and we are looking forward to working alongside Nicola.”

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 6

Wide selection of jeans available from Energy.

B IS FOR BROWNIE New at the Stamford Delicatessen are brownies from chocolatier, B is for Brownie, based in Oakham. The brownies are going down a storm with customers to the deli, says owner Kelly Combes. The brownies are made from single estate Madagascan chocolate and are gluten free.

DO SOMETHING FUNNY FOR MONEY It’s Red Nose Day on 13 March and schools and local businesses will all be getting behind the cause and doing something funny for money. The last Red Nose Day was in 2013 and Comic Relief has spent £99 million helping over 12 million people in the UK and across Africa. Look out for events happening local to you or visit for www.rednoseday.com.

LOV FESTIVAL AT STAMFORD ARTS A special one-day festival for young people, by young people returns to Stamford Arts Centre on Monday 30 March. At the LOV festival there will be various workshops from dancing to art, music to drama. For those interested in watching rather than taking part, there will be live performances in the evening.

THIS MONTH WE LOVE... EASTER EGGS! OK, so it’s a little premature, but since Easter eggs have been on sale since Christmas, it only seems right to indulge a little early. Here are our favourite Easter eggs: Thorntons Fabulous Fudge Egg: “Thorntons always come out with new flavours, this year I love the fabulous fudge egg.” Nicola, publisher Terry’s Chocolate Orange Easter Egg: “Terry’s chocolate orange, but as an easter egg - win, win.” Stuart, designer Green & Blacks Dark Chocolate Egg: “I love dark chocolate, and this has to be one of the nicest dark choc eggs I have had.” Jemma, sales executive Hollow Chocolate Egg: “Forget all these fancy eggs; you can’t beat a plain hollow chocolate egg!” Anna, designer Lindt Gold Bunny: “We always got one of these as children on Easter morning. The little bell is so cute.” Amy, designer Cadbury Creme Egg: “It’s an oldie, but a goodie. It was my favourite as child, and it still is now.” Michelle, editor

20/02/2015 15:45:27

STAMFORD WELLAND ACADEMY STUDENTS VISIT YPRES Over 50 Year 9 students and teachers from Stamford Welland Academy had a day trip to Ypres, Belgium, in February to visit sites of importance in the First World War and pay their respects at the Menin Gate. The pupils visited Passchendaele museum, Lijssenthoek military cemetery and Vancouver corner. They ended the day at the Menin Gate for the Last Post ceremony, where three of the students laid a wreath at the memorial.

TURN OLD TOOLS INTO NEW Stamford St Martins Rotary Club is collecting old tools in Morrison’s car park on Saturday 28 March from 10am until 4pm

5 things to do in March

New range of treatments from Essence of Beauty Essence of Beauty has added four new treatments to its offering. Using the luxurious Neom range of products,

clients can choose from a sleep, de-stress, energise or happiness treatment. Both the sleep and de-stress treatments start with peaceful guided meditation, reflexology and breathing techniques, followed by a full body massage. The energise treatment includes a clay wrap and face and scalp pressure point massage. The happiness treatment is designed to lift your mood and includes a head to toe body buffing and massage. All treatments are £60 for 60 minutes. Concept readers can get £10 off each of these treatments for the month of March. Tel 01780 763564 to book.

• Spot the first signs of spring around Stamford as daffodils start coming up and cherry trees start to blossom.

for the ‘Tools For Self Reliance’ charity. The tool are refurbished and packed up and sent to Africa where they are given out to people allowing them to create meaningful employment for themselves. Tools need to be good quality and in good working order. A full list of tools that are accepted can be found at www.tfsr.org.

TIME FOR THE SPRING CLEAN But where has the term ‘spring clean’ come from? During the 19th century in America, prior to the advent of the vacuum cleaner, March was often the best time for dusting because it was getting warm enough to open windows and doors, but not warm enough for insects to be a problem, and the high winds could carry the dust out of the house. 3 Most Common Spring Cleaning Jobs • Cleaning windows inside and out • Defrosting and cleaning the fridge/freezer • Steam cleaning carpets and rugs

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 7

• And look out for migratory birds returning to your garden – chiffchaffs and swallows are usually the first to return to UK shores after winter. • Celebrate St Patrick’s Day on the 17 March with a pintof Guinness at your local. • If you haven’t already done so: register to vote in the district and parliamentary elections by April 20. • Get out in your garden and start planning for the year ahead. Check out our new gardening editor’s top tips for things to do this month on page 41.

20/02/2015 15:45:36

Shutting it in or shutting it outWhatever You Need, We Have The Solution... Garage Doors

Blinds

New, Repairs & Servicing. All types supplied including Roller & Sectional. Automate existing doors.

English Limestone Company Duddington Workshops

"JCHEOD -ANEK@ -NKLANPEAO

Made to Measure. Roller Venetian & Vertical.

Insect Screens

Shutters

Security or Decorative.

Compact design.

Internally or externally fitted. Lets air & light in, keeps insects out.

the

Commercial, Industrial & domestic.

Professional, friendly & personal service. No obligation Free quotations

Call: 07709 337647 Securing your property in style! 28 Cowslip Drive, Deeping St James, Peterborough PE6 8TE

Visit us on Facebook

Call 01780 480 297

info@englishlimestonecompany.co.uk

-/& " 0 )"

HURR Y!

*201 "+! 0,,+

IW 6OHHSHH]HH %DFNFDUH )5(( 'UDZHUV

IW (OHFWULF $GMXVWDEOH %HG

)5(( $VVHPEO\ 7HVWLQJ $VN $ERXW 2XU )UHH +RPH 'HPR

.LQJVL]H )RU 7KH 'RXEOH %HG 3ULFH

:DV Â&#x2026;

.LQJVL]H )RU 7KH 'RXEOH %HG 3ULFH

1RZ Â&#x2026;

IW 6LOHQWQLJKW /DWH[ )5(( 'UDZHU 'LYDQ

1RZ Â&#x2026;

'LVSRVD

O RI

2/' %(

%(' &(175( 67$0)25' 6725(

:HVW 6WUHHW 6WDPIRUG 3( 36 8S IURP :DLWURVH 6XSHUPDUNHW

Â¶ Â¶Â¶ 7UDGLWLRQDO ,URQ %HGVWHDG

Â¶ Â´ 6LOHQWQLJKW 0LUDFRLO )LUP

Â¶ Â´ /HDWKHU 6W\OH 2WWHUPDQ

:DV Â&#x2026;

$YDLODEOH LQ &UHDP RU %ODFN +XUU\ /LPLWHG 6WRFNV

1RZ Â&#x2026;

)5(( 'UDZHU 'LYDQ +XUU\ /LPLWHG 6WRFNV

1RZ Â&#x2026;

)5(( 0DWWUHVV +XUU\ /LPLWHG 6WRFNV

1RZ Â&#x2026;

7HOHSKRQH %RXUQH Â&#x2021; 6SDOGLQJ Â&#x2021; 3HWHUERURXJK

)5(( ,PPHGLDWH 'HOLYHU\ 6WRFNLVW RI 9L 6SULQJ 0\HUV 6LOHQWQLJKW +DUULVRQ 0DQ\ 0RUH 8 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 8

20/02/2015 09:59:26

High Street Hero: Harrison and Dunn

hey are the shops that sit in the town centre for decades quietly servicing the needs of their loyal customers, those family businesses who are as permanent a feature as the very pavements themselves. Whether it is dispensing valuable advice or having just the right product at the right time, stalwart stores like Harrison and Dunn are the unsung heroes of the high street. Mr Harrison and Mr Dunn first set up shop together in Stamford in 1930. So strong was their partnership that the two men continued to work together until Mr Harrison retired in 1955. Mr Dunn continued to work in the shop for the next 49 years, despite officially retiring in 1990. A true family business, the legacy of Harrison and Dunn continues through Mr Dunn’s line with the stores now owned by his son Richard and grandsons David and John. “My dad has worked at the shop since he was a teenager and still works at the Stamford shop now,” says John. “His sister, Sheila Lee and her husband Michael, worked for the business all their lives and are now retired. The Bourne shop was also run by their son Andrew for approximately 15 years before my brother, David, and I joined the family business. We are now running the business together and currently employ over 20 staff for the two shops combined.” Soon after the original shop opened in the 1930s, Harrison and Dunn started a delivery van service that covered a large area from Cottesmore to Billingborough, a practice which continued into World War II. John continues: “During the war we only had the Stamford shop and the travelling vans. At this time the stock was extremely basic as even galvanised buckets were in short supply. Plastic bowls were only just beginning to filter through as a new item. The vans mainly

sold paraffin as not many houses had a gas supply, so they were a bit of a lifeline for lots of people. You could even buy vinegar by bringing your empty bottle to the van.” The vehicles were a familiar and welcome sight in the area for many years. “Unfortunately we didn’t keep them, in some respects we wish we had, as they were an integral part of the success of our business in the early days,” says John. The Bourne shop was opened in the late 1940’s and remained a feature on the corner in the Market place until it moved to its new larger shop in 2012. Harrison and Dunn have always proudly supported the community. “We help out with local charity events by donating prizes,” says John. “And whether it may be Easter, a Royal Wedding, Christmas time or the Queen’s Jubilee we always try to enter into the spirit of things with window displays that attempt to capture the essence of the moment.” Its own 80th birthday celebrations caused a stir of its own, with staff dressing up in authentic costumes and decorating the shop with flags and photographs. Looking forward, the future appears to be in safe hands. With both David and John having young families, there is a good chance that one or all of the next generation

of Dunns could take over the legacy of the business one day. In the meantime, the familiar face of Harrison and Dunn will continue to provide for local needs. When asked how many of one of the simplest items, a screw, he felt they may have sold over the last 80 years, John smiles. “Over the years I imagine we have sold millions of screws as lots of our customers buy boxes of 200 at a time, and we do a good variety of sizes too!”

Harrison & Dunn Stamford, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire MARCH PE9 2PA, t: 01780 762088 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 9

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 9

20/02/2015 14:16:24

Elegant Fireplaces Stoves & Fires REDEFINING YOUR HOME

Fireplaces • Woodburners • Multifuel Stoves • Stunning Gas & Electric Fires Bespoke Fireplace Manufacturer • Full Installation Service & Free Site Surveys

VISIT OUR EXTENSIVE SHOWROOM

Unit 1 Manning Road . Bourne . Lincs . PE10 9HW . Telephone: 01778 424 841 Email: sales@fireplacefinesse.co.uk . www.fireplacefinesse.co.uk Opening times: Monday-Tuesday 10am-5pm, Wednesday Closed, Thursday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm Out of Hours Appointments Available :H KDYH UHJLVWHUHG LQVWDOOHUV

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 10

20/02/2015 10:00:37

OHUV

11 + Tes t i n g an d Year 7 A dm iss io ns In f o r m ation E v en in g Pa re nts who cur re ntl y have a child in Ye ar 5 are war ml y inv ite d to at te nd a n infor mation eve ning at Bour ne G rammar School on Tu e sday 3rd March 2015 at 7.0 0 pm Bourne Grammar School, South Road, Bourne, Lincolnshire, PE10 9JE Email: admissions@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Website: www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk

The Best Atmosphere, The Best Support, The Best Results Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 11

20/02/2015 10:01:09

Sell your

HOUSE faster W

hen you put your house on the market you hope to sell as quickly as possible and for your asking price. Set the stage for success with these tips from Nest Estates and get the results you’re looking for.

1. De-clutter – but don’t de-personalize De-cluttering and having a pristine home from top to bottom, is vital to make your home stand out from the rest. Your home must be cleaner and less cluttered than it’s ever been. You need to banish not just the day-to-day build-up (the mail, the shoes, last season’s clothes, the dog hair), but also several years’ accumulation. • Get rid of all the excess stuff that has accumulated in nooks and crannies. Put it in storage or give it to a friend. • People need to be able to envisage what the property would look like if they were living there. People often find this difficult, so make it easy for them to see all the fantastic living space you’re offering them.

• Don’t make it look like a generic hotel; leave some personality. Apart from

anything else it gives unimaginative buyers suggestions as to what they might do.

• People are often buying into a lifestyle as much as a property. Show them the attractive side of your lifestyle.

2. Boost roadside appeal Many people thinking of viewing your home will do a quick drive-by first, often deciding on the spot if it is even worth a look inside. Make sure your home will tempt potential buyers. Create a good first impression by:

• Giving the front door a new coat of paint • Ensuring driveway and paths are clean and tidy • Planting flowers and fresh greenery • Mowing the lawn

• Washing the front windows

3. A fresh lick of paint Giving your walls a fresh lick of neutral paint will make your home seem lighter and bigger. It will enable the viewers to more easily imagine how they would adapt the rooms to their needs and will be easier for the buyers to move in and use the rooms immediately than if the walls were still bright purple or lime green.

4. Fix and clean Make any minor repairs necessary – holes in walls, broken door knobs, cracked tiles, torn or threadbare carpets. Many buyers want to move in without making changes, so allow for this. Clean everything until it sparkles. Get rid of limescale, clean and repair tile grout, wax wooden floors, get rid of all odours, put out fresh towels. This will make the place more appealing and allow viewers to imagine living there.

12 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 12

20/02/2015 10:01:41

Property featured is FOR SALE, details can be found on our website. Don’t forget about outside. Tidy up the garden by cutting bushes back, cleaning the patio and cutting the grass. While this doesn’t add much value to your home it makes it more likely to sell as people can visualise themselves using the garden.

5. Light and airy Wall mirrors make a room look much bigger and lighter. Consider putting some up, especially in smaller rooms or hallways. Clean windows inside and out, and replace any broken light bulbs. Making the place feel light and airy makes rooms feel bigger and the property more attractive.

6. Light a ﬁre If it’s a cold evening, or even chilly day, light your fire. This will make your home feel warm and inviting. If you don’t have a fire then ensure the fireplace is clean.

7. Make it look pretty Make sure the windows are properly dressed with blinds or curtains as naked windows make a place feel impersonal and run down. Buy some cheap ones if necessary. Plants and flowers bring colour, life and light to a room and also smell delicious. So does that fruit bowl on your kitchen worktop.

8. Get the right smells Bad smells are the single biggest turn off for prospective buyers. Don’t just cover them up, fix the source of the

smell. Wash bins, open windows, air the kitchen from old cooking smells, give your dog a bath and wash pet bedding.

Conversely, good smells can make a property feel like an alluring home. Brew some fresh coffee or a good tip is to put some vanilla essence on a baking tin in the oven just before your viewers arrive which gives the homely smell of baking.

9. Be prepared for obvious conversations Potential buyers will want to know about your house, how long you have been here, what the area is like; maybe even why you are selling up. Be prepared for these conversations, but also questions about:

10. Choose your agent carefully Choosing the right agent from the very start is crucial to a hassle free and fast process. Nest Estates work with their clients to ensure that the process is smooth and stress-free as possible. The friendly and knowledgeable team with be with you every step of the way.

• Extensions or plans for extensions – a buyer might want to know when you added an extension or if you ever had any plans for extending. • Neighbours – who are the neighbours, how long have they been there. But you don’t need to recite the whole history of the neighbourhood.

• Schools – even if you don’t have children, do a little research into the schools in the area. • Local amenities – how long does it take to walk to the local school/shop/pub, is there a local bus, what sorts of shops are close, any local community events.

NEST ESTATES, 1 North Street, Stamford, PE9 2YN t: 01780 238110 www.nestestates.co.uk

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 13

20/02/2015 10:04:18

CLUB SPOTLIGHT

Stamford Squash Club T

he Stamford Squash Club is an active club, with 170 members playing squash at all levels from the Stamford Endowed Schools squash courts on Conduit Road. The club caters for all members, whether they play for fun, social, to keep fit or competitive squash.

No matter what your level – whether you are a complete beginner or an expert – there is a place for you at Stamford Squash Club. Whether you just want to knock the ball about with a friend once a week, or you want to get serious and play in a team; there is something to suit everyone. Ferlin Barnard is the chairman of the club and says: “We are a very friendly club. Everyone is welcome, no matter what level they play at. You don’t need to have a squash partner to join the club. When you first join, a member of the committee will play you and then introduce you to other members at your level. It can be a great way to meet new people.” “A good place to start for new members are the club nights on Thursday or Friday,” says Ferlin. “We can get up to 20-25 people of different levels turn up. It’s a good place to meet new members and play different people. We’d also encourage anyone thinking of joining to come along to a club night to see what it’s all about.” The club does run a league system which all members are encouraged to sign up for. There are five leagues across all abilities. You play each member in your league and depending on the outcome of your games, you will move up or down the leagues. “The league system is a really good way of improving your games

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 14

and also playing new people,” says Ferlin. “Members move up and down the leagues each month so very quickly you find yourself in a league of the same ability as yourself.” The club also runs its own club championship from October to April, where members play in a knock-out system to win the men’s, women’s, junior and handicap cups. For members interested in playing in team competitions, the club enters four teams in the Cambridgeshire League and Peterborough District League, and does very well in each of these leagues. The club also boasts Tania Bailey as one of its members. She has made her way steadily up the rankings with her best ranking being number four in the world. Tania and several other members are available for team or individual coaching sessions. There’s a very active social scene, with nights out, an annual dinner and tours to other cities. In the past, members have travelled to Amsterdam, Dublin, Edinburgh and most recently, Newcastle. “The tours are a lot of fun and well supported,” says Ferlin. “We normally have around 16 members coming on tour and everyone will get a couple of games.” The club is well supported by the Green Man in Stamford, who sponsors team shirts

and various events. The club also enjoys a good relationship with the Stamford Endowed Schools who ensure the courts are maintained to an excellent condition.

More information Members pay an annual subscription (currently £55 for an adult, £40 for an OAP, £20 for juniors), and then pay £3 per game (40 minutes). Players of all ages are welcome. Prospective members are invited to come down for a game or come to a club night before deciding to join. Please contact Maurice Mosdell on 01778 424374 or 07747 046387 to arrange a time or make contact via the website: www.stamfordsquashclub.org.uk.

20/02/2015 10:04:35

Everyone deser ves to

VIPE\

%$7+52206 Â&#x2021; 7,/(6 Â&#x2021; +($7,1* 7KH 0DOWLQJV %DUQDFN 5RDG 6WDPIRUG 3( 1$ 7HO

ZZZ VWRUPEDWKURRPV VKRZURRP FR XN 2SHQ 7XHV WR )UL DP SP 6DW DP SP 6XQ E\ DSSRLQWPHQW

QPKLE= www.bournemarketplace.co.uk / 15 7HUPV DQG FRQGLWLRQV DSSO\

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 15

20/02/2015 10:05:58

Traditional or contemporary Family run company Supply only or supply with installation Free, no obligation design service Approved Siemens dealer

Slide&Hide速

43-45 Bridge Street, Deeping St James Lincolnshire PE6 8HA Tel: 01778 346415 www.devonportskitchensbathrooms.co.uk

16 / www.bournemarketplace.co.uk

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 16

20/02/2015 10:06:22

e®

Volunteering in Stamford

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

he Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) has been helping people with legal, money and other problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice since 1939. People can get advice from one of over 3,300 bureaux across England and Wales, including the Stamford bureau in High Street.

The Stamford bureau is part of the South Kesteven Citizens Advice Bureau offering free, independent and impartial advice to the residents, workers and students of the area covered by South Kesteven District Council. The service is available to anyone needing help over a wide range of areas including: benefits, work, debt and money, consumer, relationships, housing, law and rights, discrimination, tax, healthcare and education. Lisa Barwell is the Chief Officer for the South Kesteven bureau and says: “Demand continues to grow for our services. We see about 6000 clients a year who collectively bring us some 15,000 issues and problems they want guidance with. Our top three areas for advice are welfare benefits, debt and consumer advice; with advice on benefits accounting for about 35% of all our queries.” “We see people from all walks of life, who need all sorts of advice,” says Lisa. “Some people just need to see us for a one-off query, while others need more specialist help. We are here for everyone, no matter what the individual circumstances.” “Our staff are all specially trained to help with many different issues and if we are unable to assist we can provide contacts to give expert legal advice,” says Lisa. There are some paid specialist positions at the Stamford bureau, but 80% of the services are delivered by welltrained volunteers. “We have an extensive training programme for anyone wishing to volunteer as an adviser. There is an eight week training course to start with and then bimonthly training events for all advisers. There is a lot changing all the time with welfare benefits and consumer advice, and we need to stay up-to-date with it all.”

The South Kesteven bureau also works in partnership with the district’s Children Centres. This relationship sees a dedicated adviser providing one-to-one advice to parents who use the centres and also running group presentations on such subjects as household budgeting. Another important role of the Citizens Advice Bureau is that of campaigning at a local and national level. “The stories our clients tell us provide a unique insight into the problems faced by people in the UK,” says Lisa. “For instance, it was the Citizens Advice Bureau that first brought the Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) scandal to light. Our latest campaign is speaking up for better rights for people in private rental accommodation. In the last year more than 80,000 people in England and Wales came to us suffering a problem with a privately rented home with issues ranging from illegal eviction to harassment, lost deposits and struggles to secure the most basic repairs.”

Want to volunteer? The three main volunteer positions are: Advisers: As a CAB adviser you would: interview clients, help them negotiate with people such as creditors or service providers, draft letters, make phone calls on their behalf and in some circumstances refer them to other agencies. Advisers undertake extensive and on-going training. Gateway assessors: Gateway assessors help clients get the right help in the fastest time possible. They assess people’s needs, either face-to-face or over the phone, and identify the most appropriate course of action. That

might be self-help information, referral to a specialist organisation or an appointment with a CAB adviser or specialist caseworker. Receptionists: Receptionists manage the ‘front-of-house’ greeting clients and other visitors, answering the phone, ensuring clients know what is happening and how long they have to wait.

Volunteers in these roles are usually asked to commit to at least one session a week. There are many other roles for volunteers, including administrators, campaigners, IT support, fundraisers and publicity officers. If you are interested in volunteering in any of these roles please see www.southkestevencab.co.uk for more information.

Client posed by model Images are not from the Stamford Citizens Advice Bureau. All copyright CAB.

Stamford Citizens Advice Bureau 39 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB

Opening times:

Monday: 9.30 am – 3.00 pm Tuesday: 9.30 am – 3.00 pm Friday: 9.30 am – 1.30 pm MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 17

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 17

20/02/2015 10:06:43

STOCKISTS OF LADIES FASHION, FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

<H 2OGH

%HUWLH $UPV 1RZ WDNLQJ ERRNLQJV IRU

0RWKHUÂŠV 'D\ DQG (DVWHU :HHNHQG 01780 764866

11 Stamford Walk, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2JE

7HOHSKRQH

(PDLO LQIR#EHUWLHDUPV FR XN %HUWLH /DQH 8IILQJWRQ 6WDPIRUG 3( 6=

The easy way to a lush, green, weed-free lawn... Lawnscience provides a full range of lawn treatments including MOSS control, fertilisation and weed control, Applied by our friendly, knowledgeable technicians.

from only

ÂŁ13.95

FREE

Soil Conditioner - Call within the next 7 days to receive your FREE weed and fertilisation treatment, please quote LOZ01

WORTH AT LEAST ÂŁ27

FREE

Root Booster treatment with treatments

WORTH AT LEAST ÂŁ34

FREE

We care for your lawn

Call us today on 01780 764448 or email gary@lawnscience.co.uk to claim your FREE lawn survey

www.lawnscience.co.uk

Worm treatment with aeration

WORTH AT LEAST ÂŁ27 Â?ČąÂ˘Â&#x2DC;Â&#x17E;ČąÂ&#x160;Â&#x203A;Â&#x17D;ČąČą Â&#x2014;Â&#x2DC;Â?ČąÂ&#x152;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2122;Â&#x2022;Â&#x17D;Â?Â&#x17D;Â&#x2022;Â˘Čą Â&#x153;Â&#x160;Â?Â&#x2019;Â&#x153;Ä&#x2122;Â&#x17D;Â?ČąÂ Â&#x2019;Â?Â&#x2018;Čą Â?Â&#x2018;Â&#x17D;ČąÂ&#x203A;Â&#x17D;Â&#x153;Â&#x17E;Â&#x2022;Â?Â&#x153;ČąÂ&#x2DC;Â?ČąÂ&#x160;Čą Â?Â&#x203A;Â&#x17D;Â&#x160;Â?Â&#x2013;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2014;Â?Ç°ČąÂ Â&#x17D;Čą Â Â&#x2019;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022;ČąÂ&#x203A;Â&#x17D;ČŹÂ?Â&#x203A;Â&#x17D;Â&#x160;Â?Čą Â˘Â&#x2DC;Â&#x17E;Â&#x203A;ČąÂ&#x2022;Â&#x160;Â Â&#x2014;ČąÂ?Â&#x203A;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D;Čą Â&#x2DC;Â?ČąÂ&#x152;Â&#x2018;Â&#x160;Â&#x203A;Â?Â&#x17D;ÇŻ

18 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 18

20/02/2015 10:07:32

REGISTERED

Hypnotherapist

Alexander Jamieson practising at The Point of Health Clinic, 63 Casterton Road, Stamford Also available at Renu, Bourne

his is the time of year when people are focussed upon their health. For Alex, as a hypnotherapist, the New Year begins with clients seeking help with weight control, alcohol/drug control and smoking cessation. Weight control is achieved by changing bad eating habits, dealing with emotional issues (related to comfort eating) and motivating the client to exercise. For larger amounts of weight gain, body mass index 30 or more, built up over a period of time, Hypno-Band may be the solution as an alternative to gastric band surgery. Alcohol consumption has become a serious problem for an ever increasing percentage of the population. Large numbers of people are seriously damaging their health by drinking too much alcohol. Hypnotherapy can help to either reduce the amount to a safe level, or if desired, to enable the client to stop completely. Addictions, whether it be smoking, alcohol or food can be helped with hypnotherapy. Clinical hypnotherapy can help you have a healthier, happier 2015!

A LW A Y S C H O O S E A

Registered Hypnotherapist  Professional Ethics  Qualifications  Code of Conduct  Accountability Your Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist:

How the process works When the client is nicely relaxed and in trance, Alex will access their subconscious mind where the problem is stored. Then it is similar to re-programming a computer, getting rid of the old unhealthy beliefs and habits and replacing them with healthy ones instead. Anxiety and stress caused by our daily lives, worry about money, work, relationships, health and family etc. Mind and body are connected and unhealthy thoughts can affect body health in different ways. For example, Irritable Bowel Syndrome is really an anxiety disorder. When the sufferer is calm and relaxed and has good levels of self confidence, their IBS symptoms are likely to disappear, or be greatly reduced.

Hypnotherapy can help in so a i ere t a a a be seen in the list below: Gastric Band Hypnotherapy I.B.S Performance Anxiety Nail Biting Stress Management Addictions Digestive Problems Pain Control Smoking Cessation Hypnodontics Alcohol Control Eating Disorders Sleep Problems Public Speaking Weight Control Confidence Building Panic Attacks Anger Management Exam Nerves Post Traumatic Stress Recovery Phobias Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Alexander M. Jamieson D.Hyp, PDCHyp, PDCBHyp, MBSCH

A Registered Member Of The British Society of Clinical Hypnosis www.BSCH.org.uk

To speak to Alex regarding Clinical Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behaviour Hypnotherapy please phone him on 01778 560630 or email alex@lincolnshire-rutland-hypnotherapy.co.uk. Visit the website www.lincolnshire-rutland-hypnotherapy.co.uk

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 19

Appointments available at The Point Of Health Clinic, 63 Casterton Road, Stamford PE9 2UB

20/02/2015 10:07:11

Try something different this

Mother’s Day New To Essence and Easter

NEOM BODY TREATMENTS Sleep | De-Stress | Energise | Happiness

Belgia

MARCH OFFER

£10 OFF

E N I L A PR S E S O R

ANY OF OUR NEOM BODY TREATMENTS

Priced at £60 per treatment Offer ends March 31st 2015

PERFECT FOR MOTHER’S DAY GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

15 St Marys Street | Stamford | PE9 2DF 01780 763564 | www.essenceofbeauty.co.uk

THE FIVE BELLS Public House and Restaurant- Edenham

n a i g l e B TE LA

O CHOC

SHOE

VISIT US

to sample our exquisite range of luxurious chocolates and delicious crepes.

Now taking bookings for

Mother’s Day and Easter Weekend Telephone: 01778 591111

2 Ironmonger Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PL • t: 01780 437080 contact@cafeauchocolat.co.uk • www.cafeauchocolat.co.uk OPEN: 8am - 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am - 4pm on Sundays

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 20

Email: info@the-five-bells.co.uk The Five Bells, Main Street, Edenham PE10 OLL

20/02/2015 10:08:24

6 THINGS TO DO WITH MUM on Mother’s Day

hether your mum wants a relaxing, chilled out day, or something a bit more exciting - here are six things to do around Stamford on Sunday 15 March.

Farmer Mum Mums and grannies go free at Sacrewell on Mother’s Day. Join in lamb and kid feeding, see some rare pig breeds and there will be free tea and coffee for mums and grannies in the cafe. Sacrewell, open 9.30 – 5pm. See www.sacrewell.org.uk for further information.

Chilled-out Mum

era

Relax on the comfy couches at the Cosy Club with a glass of bubbles, or treat mum to a special three course lunch. Cosy Club Stamford, Horseshoe Lane, open 9am – 11pm. See www.cosyclub.co.uk/stamford for further information.

Treat mum to a screening of the Met Opera’s La Donna Del Laggo by Rossini. It is based on The Lady of the Lake, a poem written in 1810 by Sir Walter Scott and is an emotionally charged performance dealing with love, loss, jealousy and betrayal. Stamford Arts Centre, St Mary’s Street, 2pm, £20. See www.stamfordartscentre.com for further information.

ree ﬁ gere Burghley House reopens for the season on Saturday 14 March, so why not pop along with mum on Sunday? The private South Gardens also open this weekend with magnificent seasonal displays of spring bulbs. The South Gardens only open for a limited time each year (until 12 April this year) and entry is included with a house and gardens ticket or gardens only ticket. And after you’ve had a stroll around the gardens, treat mum to a meal in the Orangery Restaurant and she’ll receive a free glass of bubbly. See more at www.burghley.co.uk.

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 21

Sporty Mum

Foodie Mum

Take part in a 4km run around Ferry Meadows with the whole family in the inaugural Run4Mum event. The event is to raise money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. The event is open to all women, men and children and participants can choose to run, walk or jog the 4km course. Event start is 9am with race day registration starting at 7:30am and closing at 8:45am.

Treat mum to a Sunday roast at the William Cecil, or perhaps she’d prefer to indulge in afternoon tea on the terrace? No matter what, it’s the perfect way to enjoy Sunday afternoon. The William Cecil, St Martins, lunch 12 – 3pm, afternoon tea 3 – 6pm.

Find out more at www.run4mum.global

Tel. 01780 750070 to book or see www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk for further information.

20/02/2015 10:08:16

SHOW HOW MUCH YOU LOVE HER

Mother’s Day Packages THE PERFECT GIFT FOR YOUR MUM

Moment of Calm Darphin Skin Reviver Facial Back/Neck/Shoulder Massage Microdermabrasion Facial Custom Manicure Custom Pedicure Hopi Ear Candling

ONLY

£ 65

Save £15!

New to Renaissance is Thermavein A treatment that can eliminate thread veins in just one treatment. Photos show instant results after one 15 minute treatment WATCH THE VIDEO ON THERMAVEIN.COM

Call now for details

www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

ONLY

£Save 9520! £

Natural Beauty Products

Wonderfully effective high purity natural ingredients

Complete Bliss

Range of skin, hair, body & bathing products

Choose 3 one hour treatments for complete bliss:

Full Body Hot Stone Massage Darphin Customised Facial Custom Manicure and Pedicure Deep Tissue Specialist Massage Essential Facial Includes B/N/S Massage

All aspects of BEAUTY THERAPY

2 Mallory Lane, Stamford, PE9 2FW

Unwind with 3 treatments lasting 45 minutes each:

• • • • •

Health and Beauty Therapy

RENAISSANCE IPL Ltd.

T: 01780 763768

Time to Unwind

• Reflexology • Customised Facial Including a Mask or Microdermabrasion • Hot Stone B/N/S Massage • Indian Head Massage • Shellac Manicure • Shellac Pedicure

Renaissance

Prices start at £100

Choose 3 of our calming 30 minute treatments:

• • • • • •

ONLY

£Save 125 32! £

G i ft Vou chers Al so Avai la b l e

Many products, including our very special skin and hair oils are made in Tahiti or Hawaii under carefully managed ofﬁcial standards. Visit Us at Stamford Market every Friday

Secure online store at: www.aim2bnatural.co.uk

15 St Marys Street | Stamford | PE9 2DF 01780 763564 | www.essenceofbeauty.co.uk Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 22

20/02/2015 10:08:23

Garden Twine In A Tin - £6.00 Perfect Presents, 01780 480379 www.perfectpresents4u.co.uk

Flower Arrangment - from £22.95 Greensleaves, 01780 480077 www.greensleavesflorist.co.uk

Selection Of Chocolates Cafe Au Chocolate 01780 437080

Mother’s Day  gift ideas 

M Moneybox - £10.99 Perfect Presents, 01780 480379 www.perfectpresents4u.co.uk

Silver Candlestick Holders - £29.99 Anvils Interiors, 01780 765696 www.anvilsinteriors.com

other’s Day gifts should be all about celebrating the wonderful woman who has given you so much, and our Mother’s Day gift ideas do exactly that. Allow her to celebrate and show her how much you care with a selection of gifts found on our High Street.

Chalk Paint Workshop - £65.00 Chalk Interiors, 01780 752414 www.chalkinteriors.com

Clogau Fairy Pendant - £250 G. Gaynor Jewellers, 01780 763952 www.gaynorjewellers.com

Cupcakes - £1.50 Stamford Cupcake Company, 01780 489364 www.stamfordcupcakecompany.co.uk MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 23

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 23

20/02/2015 10:08:39

Y T U A E

S EW

e stur oing i o rg tm

Inst

e to nev t is y item n a r t t o u u a d b e Deo the b about ith a e w n e b to e hom me up wome t r a i c o r o f r m s w ula ay f e ha Sur us form eer aw . This v g i gen rarely rythin es no r e o v wh lack e st ensu s and i b k r l m l a a e te m esky sibl invi hy whi hose p which y t patc keeps s at ba white le p b n o i i als w sta le cr s Invisi l p o , i a l t l t d l s e n u Cry y sm amo or ruin s. Sure ite Di all maj t h shir k + W able in l c a Bl 9, avai ts. 1 . ke 3 r £ rma e p su

ould u sh for a a o y o dr air s t cream or Hy h d h e an r nig Decl u kin ur s ap yo mend es. o y w r s o ac o f c m o ent ick is t uld re wless F m t o t a r a l i t e w ask tensive tr e saving eek. We le from F m b s m w n i a i ’ Let ask is an larly. A tsk once a0). Avail u a .5 A m ne reg face m k (£29 o s g a e s n i u M rish ert nou al Exp r Flo

and e s i rg re Ene resto ing ris

a ydr n H ing, o i t e t Lo rita g th with non-ir nablin ra e n e a ti Hyd ften ers rou -up ing r deliv make Lotion and so s n e e one clea and from ton ne on youritalising tpuritiesnt-free. Th cts ailable a o r t t and touches. This revaces of iming agets, rose exother. Av h s o e am tr ac ot ing Refr he finishom Guinating alrlee and fpolant extnr g alot sm t r f li in Put cheur f e, elim cohol- in with nd fee l a i s k a n A s ed e Fr clea the. l a s th resh fina to bre nriche ing ref 5. 7 skin cheur e ft look l £17. i e Fra in is l e, 200m k so s aissanc Ren

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 24

u oist s the ht m hance ing g i l k n s Thi antly e thy loo rges nst l heal recha ial i t m a y crea natur tensel s essen nts ’s t n e i i n i s sk . It ore plem te glow nd rest t com o crea s a tt y. I ou skin vitalit contac lumin n. o y n o ctl lexi skin a perfe comp isibly ed l be v ave h il unifi and r skin w sed and glow. i u h g o t r l Y of ea ne h, e eous h ssence 0. s e r f E rg 9.0 a go le from 0ml £3 ilab y, 5 Ava Beaut

20/02/2015 10:09:53

s doe ow ake-up re n a nd m gain Poundlaup yourstand outcolour a r a b that n fill that ch of rmul ba Gra you knowes, you cParoducts ood pun-sticky fouck in g . Y h . Did e-up? piece pack a eir non ct to c the day a e k h t h f t a 1 r c u i r e m for £ gho s. P s wh es fo bag lushe pgloss colour p throu b f i the their l nge o top-u a a and great r ag for b d d n n a r ha you ulous! Fab

aily

, eD te stur coarse . i a o r y s d M e k e l y v t i i v H vi l Instan nd rev ft and s ses and e r and itchel drates a g it so oisturi ined

m b vin hy lM Pau tment air lea ormula he com tter. h t d u a f e b y h r g r n roug shea T or d dde ishi or a dull replen hair th ns and pairs f ents i g s s e Thi gthen y prote and r ecial a ne. s n le i p o n e str n of s hicke hile s nse sh vailab t w o e A i t , l t . y n r o c . a bod add i d hai Toft then Pan me and ir and -treate eauty, volu ngle ha colour air & B r deta able fo ange H t i R u e S Th from

h ﬂas nd a a in

s ve she es real lo tter. p colour. a l flu ng dee ash et

y ur rl rs you h to yo delive is light ade w o s d i a g. M m Sh flour ar an c w g masc day lon ble fro i d g d a a a all isin ’s m vail Mii volum d lasts loss. A . n s 0 g Thi rious a x for £13.5 a , luxu beesw Beauty with nce of e Ess

tion lder

da oun

he o at t need. h t k en thinkdation wcean now n i h m t Re- many womore fountrue. Youa heavy e up k s t Too et, the osite i ithou ral ma d w e p n g a n p we the o r skin ty mi athe e i e l t i r t y a u b t r u e B o e. T eral e pr od q in t hav . A go our sk me tim r min r a e m a e y bas allow t the s powd u prefe B crea e a l o s B l d y t i r i oo ) If te w cleo 0 par rate od l hyd ng Blo .(£34.0 tr y De an’t be od , o You dation turiser really c ng Bl s skin u s n e i o u u v o Y o a o f y n le ed m r if tion tint .00) o ounda ndatio u f e 9 (£2 your act fo vailabl p m A m o fr m co ural. ne. t our crea ing na of B U look REN from

rf you

e it

av ps h

race mb ing E . last sion bsse i’s long te and o l i . ra fu auti lour. M to hyd £14.95 e b , s a o y c n t e i u r m n fo m Bea eco vita f o on b r passi es and ence o i t a t s u d r s i i o t mE of fl ite y pep ent reign with ble fro m o a d k l c i n va ba am na Let ptatio u right lips. A r o m u te ove y n yo l io icks condit t s lip

Concept_March 15_1-25.indd 25

20/02/2015 10:10:54

Marvellous

MARC H

OFFER Radiance Facial

Indulge yourself with this deeply relaxing, brightening facial package to optimise your skins clarity and promote your inner radiance.

Your treatment includes: • Luxury Decleor Aroma Massage Facial (usually £37.50) • A Decleor Skin Specific Mask • A Brightening Eye Treatment All for only • A Hand And Arm Massage • A Perfect Polish For Your Fingers Treatment time 60 minutes Or Your Toes (usually 13.50)

£45.00

CT PERFE FOR S ER’ MOTH DAY CH 15TH M

Complete the treat with a Wash and Style in our hair salon with Ilona for only £10.00 when you book the Radiance Facial G i f t Vo u c h e r s Av a i l a b l e

Just the way to spoil your Mum this Mothers Day * Offer applies to treatments taken or vouchers purchased before 31st March 2015.

27 Abbey Road | Bourne | Lincs | PE10 9EN Tel: 01778 423923 email: info@renu.uk.com www.renu.uk.com

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 26

20/02/2015 10:10:58

IPL Hair Reduction by Fiona Hood

Renaissance Health & Beauty

ntense Pulsed Light (IPL) is intense pulses of non-coherent light over a range of wavelengths. It differs from laser which is coherent monochromatic laser light but both methods fall into the same category of light-based therapies. Both methods are a very effective way of removing unwanted hair from face and body and can give excellent results. Unfortunately there is no regulation any more for offering these types of treatments so look for clinics that have been offering these treatments for a while, if they have been offering them for over five years then they would have been previously registered with the Care Quality Commission and would have been monitored very closely. A consultation is a must when starting out on your course of treatments. The clinic will take details about your health, medication taken, and look at the area you want to be treated. A patch test should always be carried outÂ at least a week before treatment begins. The area needs to be shaved prior to treatment as the energy from the light needs to be absorbed into the hair underneath the skin and down to the root. A gel is applied to the surface to cool the skin and absorb the light rays so they are most effective. IPL and laser will only work on dark hair and is not effective on blond, white, grey or red hair. This is because the light targets melanin in the hair, heating it up and causing it to destroy itself. The coarser and darker the hair is, and the paler the skin, the better the results. These treatments should never be carried out on tanned skin or skin with fake tan as there is a risk of burning. It

is also very important to wear sunscreen while having your course of treatment as the skin can become more sensitive to sunlight. A course of treatment is always recommended as hair will only be eliminated when it is in its full growth cycle. There are two resting stages of hair growth so these hairs will not be treated. Generally the hair will fall out approximately two weeks after treatment. Whatever was in the full growth stage will not come back but subsequent treatments will be need for the hairs that were in the resting stage. In general, a course of treatment would be 6-8 sessions with a follow up in six months to a year. Sessions would normally be four to eight weeks apart depending on area. There are now gadgets on the market that are available for home use. These have limited efficacy as they are not as powerful as a professional machine. They may look like they will save you money but in the end there is nothing like a professional treatment.

RENAISSANCE HEALTH & BEAUTY 2 Mallory Lane, Stamford PE9 2FW T: 01780 763768

RENAISSANCE IPL Ltd.

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 27

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 27

20/02/2015 10:11:08

Why your parent’s Will IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOUR OWN I am going to encourage you to have a difficult conversation – a conversation that, I have been told, will make you feel uncomfortable, prying, greedy grasping – but a conversation that is essential. So here goes – Talk to your parents about their death, what they want to happen when they die, what their Wills say, what their funeral wishes are and how they want to be remembered. Talk to your parents about the period running up to their death, what happens if they get ill, who they want to make the important decisions about care and life sustaining treatment, and what they need to do to ensure that these things happen. Hopefully you know by now that you need to make a Will, maybe you have even done it, but the fact remains that 50% of people die without a Will often assuming that everything will automatically pass to their spouse or children and your parents could be among them. When you have the conversation, ask yourself, do you need their money or would it be better to pass to your children or grandchildren. There might be tax implications if you receive the money that could be avoided by skipping a generation or two. Ask them what they have done to protect their assets against Tax and Care Costs, to ensure that probate will be quick and efficient after they have gone. Above all ask them to have a family meeting, preferably with a qualified advisor who will guide them through their options and ensure that all of the family understands and ‘buys in’ to the planning that needs to be done. Your parent’s Will and end of life planning is more important than yours, ask them to review it today – even offer to pay – it will save you time, stress and grief in the long run.

No Will, No Say Don’t leave things to chance, Act Today

Will & Probate Services for all of the things you need to do, but haven’t got around to. • Wills • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Estate Administration • Court of Protection Orders • Funeral Plans • Secure Document Storage Eventus, Sunderland Road Market Deeping Peterborough, PE6 8FD Tel: 01778 382723 & 01778 382791

www.will-probate.co.uk

Call us 01778 382723 to arrange a family consultation.

HYPNO- SLIMMING

Amazing new easy way to lose weight • Are you unhappy with your weight • Tried all types of diets • Dislike the way you look in the mirror • Uncomfortable with your size • Can’t shift that extra weight • Clothes don’t fit • No motivation The Hypno-Slimming Programme can help you, includes Free Hypnotic Gastric Band worth £150 Quit smoking in just 1 hour with hypnosis

Telephone 01733 768839 Peterborough Hypnotherapy Clinic, 26 Priestgate, Peterborough City Centre Free initial consultation

www.curativehypnotherapy.com

/DVW

I am ofte Attorney cautiona

A clien stroke - n held but t account h My clie for his wi lacked cap applicatio which he So we m independ bond to th appointed Had his would hav manage h decisions Lasting registratio 01778 38

HALF PRICE A5

DOUBLE SIDED

GLOSS LEAFLETS

0 0 0 , 5 £99

FULL COLOUR! “promote yourself now for under a hundred quid!“

FOR

£200

CONCEPT2DESIGN Call: 01778 423 813

Email: bourne@printing.com

7 Victor Way | Cherry Holt Road | Bourne | PE10 9PT Price above refers to: 5,000 Premium Gloss Leaﬂets: 148x210mm | 150gsm gloss art paper – FSC certiﬁed | full colour both sides THE SMALL PRINT> WE DON’T BUILD EVERY EVENTUALITY INTO THE LOW PRINTING PRICES ABOVE – WE THINK IT’S BEST YOU CHOOSE WHAT YOU NEED – SO WE HAVEN’T INCLUDED ARTWORK (WHICH WE’D LOVE TO DO FOR YOU), FILE HAND-HOLDING (TO MAKE SURE IT WORKS!), CARRIAGE OR VAT. Offers only apply to selected sizes, styles and quantities. Offer ends 31/3/15.

28 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 28

20/02/2015 10:11:44

[

HOME & GARDEN

]

/DVWLQJ 3RZHUV RI $WWRUQH\

&DQ \RX DIIRUG QRW WR KDYH WKHP"

I am often asked by clients why they need a Lasting Power of Attorney in Place when they are perfectly healthy, this cautionary tale illustrates the need perfectly.

A client came to see me last year his wife had had a catastrophic stroke - no warning it just happened. Their accounts were jointly held but the bank had restricted access to them as one of the account holders lacked capacity - they can do that. My client asked me to put in place a Lasting Power of Attorney for his wife, and I had to explain that it was too late as she already lacked capacity. I was able to offer him help with a deputyship application to the court of protection for a fixed fee plus court costs which he was happy to accept. So we made the application, he paid my fee, the court costs, for an independent mental health capacity assessment, and an insurance bond to the court – grand total £2700. Seven months later the court appointed him as a deputy. Had his wife had put a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, he would have had access to his money straight away, the ability to manage his wife’s affairs straight away and he wouldn’t need to refer decisions to the court. Lasting Powers of Attorney cost £300 plus a small court registration fee, not much to pay for peace of mind. Call today 01778 382723 to arrange yours.

Jeans to add ENERGY to your wardrobe A

great fitting pair of jeans can make such a difference. Sarah Sewell, owner of Energy in Ironmonger Street, takes a look at the various cuts and styles on offer this season.

www.energy-clothing.com

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 29

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 29

20/02/2015 14:22:24

30 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 30

20/02/2015 14:23:43

BOOTCUT Specially designed for an hourglass-shaped body. They fit snug to the thigh and flare out from the knee, the classic bootcut jean is a winner for adding flattering balance.

SLIM Designed for a straighter body shape with a little curve at the hip. They fit in all the right places - no more pinching, pulling or gapping. You get an overall smoother silhouette and jeans that look like they were made for you.

TAPER Our Regular Taper Jeans combine the best of both worlds. The fit is cut to sit looser at the waist and thigh with a gradual taper down through the leg opening. The result is a fit that keeps an overall tailored silhouette that doesn’t compromise comfort.

SLIM BOYFRIEND The ultimate icon of American culture. A fit that’s straight through the hip with a slightly tapered leg opening and a signature button fly. They’re tried and true, pure and simple, the one and only.

SKINNY Figure-hugging from the hip to the ankle, the skinny leg works for all shapes. The secret is to avoid any cut which adds anything to you - the more you show your shape, the slimmer the illusion. And waist wise the higher the better.

JACKETS Our selection of jackets include various cuts and styles to suit your shape and look. Team up with our selection of tops and you’re on to a winner!

Energy are the number one destination to buy jeans. With expert advice, honest staff and a large range of styles always on offer, we can find the perfect fit for you. We know service is key and working with customers of all ages we see you want the stress taken out of finding the perfect fit. You don’t need to go trapsing around loads of shops, you just need the energy girls!

ENERGY: 9 Ironmonger Street, Stamford, t: 01780 765633 Opening times: Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm Sun 11am-4pm www.energy-clothing.com

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 31

20/02/2015 14:24:20

1991 Village sign September Unveiling of Uffington

Inspiring Women

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE

ne hundred years ago, an organisation was formed in the UK which was to grow into an institution as British as raspberry jam and Victoria sponge. This year the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI) is celebrating its centenary and the movement has come a long way from that first Institute meeting in Anglesey in 1915. The WI has its origins in Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada. A group of farmers’ wives had set up their own organisation 18 years earlier to share knowledge and learn new skills. With the prospect of an extended First World War, John Nugent Harris, the Secretary of the British Agricultural Organisation Society, (AOS), drafted Canadian Madge Watt to set up a similar system of institutes across the United Kingdom. In wartime there was a need to preserve and grow food, and it

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 32

was felt that who better to aid the nation than countrywomen across the length and breadth of the land. Madge brought with her the Canadian motto ‘For Home and Country’ which struck a patriotic chord with British women endeavouring to support the war effort. The women grew vegetables, kept poultry and livestock and shared expertise and information through talks and presentations. They also began that great tradition of preserving and cooking with their produce

and the long association with jams and baking was born. By the end of 1918 the WI had 199 rural institutes and, rather than close down the endeavour with the end of the war as many people expected, the benefit of such a valuable institution was clear and control was handed over to the NFWI. The organisation was a unique opportunity for women. The suffrage movement had been in place since 1872, but, the WI offered a non-political, democratic support network. It was, and remains, a great leveller, a meeting

20/02/2015 10:15:10

could see a parlour maid seated next to the lady of the manor with the president her cook. Such liberation and opportunity for learning appealed to rural women and by the end of 1919 the increasing number of members filled 1405 institutes across the country. There was even one opened at Sandringham with Queen Mary herself as a participant, a tradition which remains to this day with our own monarch. A strong voice As well as supporting each other, learning new skills and taking part in light-hearted activities such as plays and pageants, it was inevitable that the pioneering ladies would look about themselves and see that things needed to be done in rural Britain. So began the WI resolution. Defined as a ‘positive statement of opinion’ a resolution is put forward, and each member given an individual vote. If the members are in favour, the organisation as a whole will use its might to campaign for change. Over the years resolutions have ranged from the earliest, demanding running water for rural areas, through a 30s and 40s promotion to increase the number of female police officers, to later campaigns for equal pay for women. Never shying away from difficult subjects, the Institute was a major force behind breast screening, the keep Britain tidy campaign and was one of the first to openly talk about Aids and raise awareness.

key in assisting to find places for evacuees, raising money for ambulances and providing assistance for families and returning servicemen. 100 years on One hundred years on, there are 212,000 members in around 6,600 WIs across the country. No longer the domain of the rural countrywomen, they have moved into towns and cities and members range from Mereworth teenagers to those as old Jam Centre as the Institute itself. There are groups made up of university students, work colleagues who meet during a lunch break and the more traditional local evening meetings, all sharing the same vision of friendship, learning and community support. Looking back over its long and impressive history, the National Federation of Women’s Institutes is justifiably proud of its achievements and is ready to meet the challenges of the next century, for home and for country.

he nes ho It could be argued that the WI had its finest hour during the Second World War. The ladies redoubled their work in food production, with the government allocating a valuable sugar supply to WI preservation centres who processed approximately 12 million pounds of fruit and produce, which might otherwise have been wasted, to feed the nation. In addition the local ladies were

WI Raspberry Jam Recipe  Makes approx 4.5kg (10 llb jars)  3kg raspberries  3kg sugar

Method:

Wartime Fruit Preservation Centre

Wash the fruit if necessary, drain well and place in a pan Simmer gently until some juice has been extracted, then test for pectin. Remove from the heat and add the sugar. Stir until dissolved. Return to the heat and bring to the boil. Boil hard until setting point is reached. Pour into warmed jars and cover. Tips: Always use fruit that is firm, fresh and just ripe. Over ripe fruit will have lost much of its pectin content. Granulated sugar is satisfactory for this recipe, although jam sugar with additional pectin could help fruit with poor pectin set more stiffly. Warm the sugar in the oven as this gives the jam a better colour and flavour.

*Courtesy of the Women’s Institute Website.

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 33

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 33

20/02/2015 10:18:18

Focus on

ng on

Women’s Institute A

sk any member in any WI across the country why they joined the Women’s Institute and you will get a number of answers. They came because of a family member or neighbour, they were conscripted, they wanted to meet new people or they had moved to the area and it seemed a good place to start. Ask them why they stay and the response is invariably the same, it is because of the welcome, the friendship and the support. “I came to Uffington 10 years ago and didn’t really know anyone. There was a poster on the village notice board advertising a talk about dogs,” Maggie Carter, current President of Uffington Women’s Institute tells the story fondly. “It took me a few days to get up the courage, but finally I said to my husband, ‘I’m going’. It was nerve wracking as I opened the door just a crack and peeped inside. One of the members looked up and I was pounced on!” The other ladies laugh at the joke as an animated Maggie continues. “It was such an incredibly warm welcome. When I got home and he asked me how it went I told him it had cost me a fortune. I’d immediately paid my annual subscription, arranged to go to the 60th birthday banquet at Grimsthorpe castle and signed up for a BBQ the following month. When I told my daughter-in-law

I’d joined the WI she fell about laughing. The next time the family came to visit I was sent out of the room and when I was allowed back they were playing Jerusalem at full blast on the stereo and they were standing in a line saluting!” Uffington WI are preparing to celebrate their 70th birthday next month and Maggie has been president for the last six years. Sally Baker, also a member of the committee, was recruited by her next door neighbour. “You couldn’t ask for a more supportive group,”

Tidy campaign; From top: 1954 Keep Britain y by NFWI in Arm the to Ambulance presented meeting venue. WI 1st 5 191 ow: Bel 1; 194

34 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 34

20/02/2015 10:18:43

she says. “If anyone is ill or suffers a bereavement or needs any kind of help or support the other ladies rally round. We will pick up shopping, take people to doctor or hospital appointments or even just be there for someone to talk to.” With about 26 members, Uffington WI is as evolving just as the Institute itself is. Brenda has been a member for 60 years and Margaret for 52, and they have seen the way in which the group constantly changes. “We’ve had some wonderful fancy dress themed events, there was one where we all dressed up in 1920’s costume and everyone looked fantastic,” says Brenda. The members’ eclectic interests are reflected in the programme which continues the long tradition of sharing skills and learning. Some meetings are more craft-based, such as making felt poppies for the World War One centenary; others are talks covering topics from the Uffington ladies have their origin of nursery rhymes to life 60th birthday celebrations at Grimsthorpe Castle behind the Iron Curtain. If making and baking is not your cup of tea, the group also enjoy outings, from the regular luncheon club to theatre trips and, ever current, the ladies are planning to visit a city mosque in the near future. It should not be forgotten that each individual WI is part of a regional federation. Between the neighbouring institutes friendly competition can be fierce. Quiz nights and scrabble competitions are common and there was even a thriving table tennis league. The WI offers its members the chance to get involved on a local, national and even international level. Sheila, a keen cyclist, joined a group of other WI members from all over the country who, completed a five day 250 mile charity cycle ride across Cuba raising over £100,000 between them. Maggie recalls her first meeting when the ladies were discussing road signs in the immediate area and was struck how passionately Sheila felt about the local issue. The future chairman and the intrepid cyclist soon became firm friends. The organisation remains as current today as it ever was. Women across the country have the opportunity to meet people they would not normally encounter and try new activities in a fun and supportive environment. That is, and always has been, the magic of the Women’s Institute.

i o ia     

onge Recipe

2 medium eggs weighed in their shells (probably 6oz/170g) The weight of the eggs in butter /soft margarine The weight of the eggs in caster sugar The weight of the eggs in self raising flour Raspberry jam to fill - homemade / good quality

e ho

Set oven Gas 4 160C (fan oven) or 180C grease and base line the bottom of 2 20cm/8” sandwich tins. Cream butter/margarine and sugar. Beat the eggs then gradually add to the mixture beating well each time. Sieve the flour and fold into the mixture with a metal spoon. Divide equally between the 2 tins and bake 25mins in the middle of the oven. They are ready when they are golden, shrunk from the sides of the tin and spring back when touched. Remove from the tins and fill with raspberry jam when cold to avoid jam bleedi ng into the cake. A light dusting of caster sugar on the top will finish it.

Tips: If you use butter remove from the fridge to soften. This is not necessary with soft margarine. To reduce the cost of the cake and increase the volume you could use half butter and half soft margarine. Use the soft margarine straight from the fridge. If large eggs are used they may weigh 7 ½ ozs/210g. If so make sure you use this weight for the other ingredients. A smaller sandwich cake can be made with 2 medium eggs, these weigh in total about 4 oz/55g. If these are used, put the mixture in 2 x 18cm/7” sandwich tins and the cakes will need less time in the oven – probably 20mins. For a special luxurious occasion fill and cover with cream and fruit or add chocolate or coffee flavourings. *Courtesy of the Women’s Institute Website.

card Uffington WI chefs delivering the cream

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 35

to the gala fun day at Leadenham

Uffington meet on the first Wednesday of every month (except January) at 7.30pm at Uffington Village Hall. Visitors are always welcome. For more information about Uffington WI contact President Maggie Carter on 01780 481288.

20/02/2015 10:18:37

BUSINESS PROFILE:

The Royal Oak

36 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 36

20/02/2015 10:19:02

A PUB at the heart of the community T

he Royal Oak at Duddington has been part of the fabric of the community for well over a century, with the current owners, Anne and John Wheeler, bringing their passion for great food and friendly service to this traditional country hotel in the heart of Welland valley.

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 37

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 37

20/02/2015 10:19:14

nne and John Wheeler took over The Royal Oak 18 months ago and business has gone from strength to strength since then. Both Anne and John were already very familiar with the hotel – Anne had been working at the hotel for four years prior to taking it on as land lady; but John had clocked up 26 years! John started his cheffing career at The Royal Oak as a kitchen porter and worked his way up to head chef, a role he still enjoys today. Anne and John have made a few changes since they took over, most noticeably a change in décor. The bar, restaurant and six ensuite rooms have all been given a makeover to ensure the hotel is fresh and contemporary, yet still retains its traditional character. “It was important to us to retain the character of the hotel, but still make it friendly and welcoming for all our customers,” says Anne. The community aspect is also important to Anne and John. “It’s great to see that we are building up a regular crowd on particular nights,” says Anne. “We get to know our customers and they get to know us. We want The Royal Oak to be that community hub, where people can meet up and enjoy a drink or a meal. We were very pleased to be nominated for Community Pub of the Year in last year’s Carlsberg UK Food and Drink Awards for Northamptonshire. We’d only had the hotel for a year at that stage, so it was a real honour that our customers nominated us so soon from taking over.” John and his team in the kitchen produce fresh home-cooked food all using locally supplied ingredients wherever possible. Everything is prepared on-site, except the bread and ice cream, which is sourced from local suppliers. “We have deliberately not gone down the fine dining or gourmet food 38 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 38

route,” says Anne. “We believe in serving great quality food at good prices.” The menu changes every two or three months, and there are always the ‘Pub Classics’ such as Beer Battered Cod and Chips and Steak and Ale Pie, but the team have also developed a number of Signature Dishes. One of the most popular is the Oven

“We believe in serving great quality food at good prices.” Roast Rump of Lamb marinated in Garlic, Mint and Rosemary. A couple of starters have also gained cult status with customers - the Chicken Liver and Pancetta Pate and Chinese-style Crispy Duck Pancakes. “These are two of our most popular starters, so we offer them all year round,” says Anne. The pair have introduced several new promotions, including 20% off your food bill on Monday and Tuesday nights and a popular steak night on Wednesdays. They’ve also started organising a few events, including an evening with Nicole Lawrence who appeared in X Factor in 2009. “We had our first evening with Nicole before Christmas and it was a sell-out,” says Anne. “The evening includes a

three course meal, disco and cabaret featuring Nicole.” Nicole Lawrence will be returning to The Royal Oak on Friday nights: 1 May, 28 August and 27 November. The hotel side of the business is also doing well, with the six ensuite rooms busy all year round. “We get mainly business people during the week and couples in the weekend,” says Anne. “We get a lot of repeat customers, especially during the week. People like the relaxed atmosphere, and it’s a bit more personal than staying at one of the hotel chains. And we’re very competitive on price too.” And as for the future, Anne and John are looking to build on the success of the last 18 months. “We’re so pleased with how the business is going,” says Anne. “We need to keep up our momentum now. Our promotions and special events have been really successful, so look out for more of these in the future.”

The Royal Oak:

High Street, Duddington, Stamford, PE9 3QE Tel: 01780 444 267 Fax: 01780 444 369 theroyaloakduddington@gmail.com www.theroyaloakduddington.com

20/02/2015 10:19:30

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 39

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 39

20/02/2015 10:19:45

1DA -ANBA?P *KSAN #KN "RANU )=SJ

3&0&1 ,2/ 0%,4/,,* ,*" +! #,/ * ,!")0 ,+ !&0-) 6

0 )"0 0"/3& " %&/" - /10 /"- &/0

Spring & Summer, Autumn & Winter Treatments for your lawn at a price that doesen’t cost the earth.

Turf pest control

Scarification & Aeration

• Weed and moss control • Scarification • Hollowtine aeration • Fertilisation ssional al profe ent service. Your loc tm ea tr

FOR A FREE QUOTATION CALL US ON;

01780 753575

lawn

AndrewÊCarr T:Ê01780Ê753575ÊM:Ê07734693253ÊE:Êandy@customlawncare.co.uk www.customlawncare.co.ukÊ|Ê2ÊTobiasÊGrove,ÊStamford,ÊLincolnshireÊPE9Ê4BD

C $=N@AJ *=?DEJANU 1K %ENA QU

Organic Weed & Moss fertilisers control

Domestic Cleaners Required Are You:

Reliable, Honest and Trustworthy? Able To Clean To A High Standard? £7.00 per hour • Local Jobs

We Are A Long Established Local Company

)(172162)%2851(/WG

Kates Bridge, Thurlby, Bourne, Lincs PE10 0EN Tel: 01778 560466 / 560425 Fax: 01778 560842 Email: glen@fentonsofbourne.co.uk www.fentonsofbourne.co.uk TVF-441-92699-Bourne-A6-DD-Advert-PRINT.pdf 1 05/02/2015 09:20

Part time hours to suit!

Contact Jude on: 0843 289 8825 or email: jude@maid2clean.co.uk www.maid2clean.co.uk/bourne Maid 2Clean (Bourne) Ltd

Make your home

... A WARMER AND COSIER HAVEN THIS WINTER

A Rated High Performance Windows and Doors as Standard.

WhereQualityCounts Get your free online price guide available at www.ambiancehi.co.uk or call us on 01780 483969

Go online at

www.ambiancehi.co.uk

or scan here for a guide price 40 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 40

20/02/2015 10:19:58

MARCH

in the GARDEN T

his month we welcome our new gardening columnist, Debbie Cooke, to the team. Debbie is an awardwinning garden designer based near Bourne and each month sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be sharing her secrets and top tips for getting the most out of your garden. This month Debbie talks about creating a master plan for your garden and getting on with seed sowing.

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 41

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 41

20/02/2015 10:20:08

pring is the perfect time to assess your garden. How has it come through the winter and how can you improve it for the coming year? One question I’m often asked is: ‘where do I start?’ And generally my response is, ‘create a master plan.’

Your master plan Your master plan is your ultimate goal, the big picture. It doesn’t have to be a drawing, it could be written document or even in your head. You just need to know where you’re going. It’s important to have one so that everything you do in the garden is working towards a final goal. This alleviates the problem of having to move things that have been inappropriately placed. Projects can be tackled in manageable sized chunks and you can work your way methodically through the garden. To start, firstly look at what you have, assess it and plan what you want from it. Think about a theme, either for the entire garden or for each area of the garden and stick to it. Remove anything that does not fit in your theme and place it somewhere more appropriate. Sometimes you have to be ruthless. Use striking plants or ornaments to create points of interest around the garden. Check that there’s something of interest to look at from every seating position, both indoors and out.

Propagators don’t have to be expensive. Plastic champagne flutes, cups and yoghurt pots make inexpensive propagators.

Sowing and growing If the weather ever picks up, it will be all hands on deck in the garden this month. March is a time for spring cleaning the garden, getting the winter jobs out of the way and preparing for the new growing season. It’s also a time for sowing seeds. Here are a few tips to help you get the best from your indoor sown seeds. • Sowing the seed: Read the instructions on the packet carefully. Different seeds require different planting depths, temperatures and light levels to germinate. Use good quality seed compost and a propagator to hold in the moisture.

• Windowsill growing: Placing tin foil behind your propagator will help to prevent seedlings from getting leggy by reaching for the light. • Pricking out: Once the seedlings reach three or four leaves, it is time to prick out. Holding the seedling by a leaf, carefully lift it with as much compost as possible. A seedling can grow another leaf; it cannot re-grow a damaged stem. Lower it up to its seed leaves in its new pot of suitable compost. Firm the compost gently around it and water. Whatever you get up to in the garden; I do hope you enjoy it! Until next month... happy gardening.

42 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 42

20/02/2015 10:20:31

Jobs to do IN MARCH n he ﬂo e ga en • Spring clean borders, cut back and weed before you start planting. • Lift and divide overgrown perennials and snowdrops in the green then mulch.

In the vegetable garden • Don’t be tempted to plant in cold wet ground. You could be wasting time and seed if you sow in less than ideal conditions. • There’s plenty that can be sown and planted this month but only if conditions are favourable. • Anything planted outside this month will need the protection of cloches or fleece.

In the greenhouse • Empty the greenhouse and clean it thoroughly ready for the new growing season. • With heat, you can sow aubergines, chillies, peppers, tomatoes, half-hardy annuals and bedding plants.

Pots and containers • Top dress permanent plantings with fresh compost. • For spring displays, combine bulbs, small evergreens, rock plants, or compact perennials.

Lawn care • Mow the lawn on dry days if necessary. • Keep the edges neat and the borders will look neat too.

Looking after the wildlife • Invite the wildlife into your garden by providing plants with berries, seeds and nectar as well as fresh water. • Encourage beneficial insects by making a bug house. Cut dried, hollow stems into 15cm/6”lengths and tie into bundles and place around the garden.

Plant of the month Ranunculus f icaria ‘Brazen Hussy’ The name alone has to make you smile! Yellow’s not my favourite colour but the way that the petals shine out from the dark foliage just lifts the spirits. Although a member of the celandine family (buttercups) it seems to be a lot better behaved than most. It’s a little cracker for a shady, damp spot beside a pond.

M: 07870 603953 E: debbie@creativegardendesign.co.uk www.creativegardendesign.co.uk

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 43

20/02/2015 10:20:41

o li e

Bring your F

rom the new gardener to the seasoned veteran, we have hand picked a range of products that will help you with your everyday gardening needs. They are all available locally and would make a great gift for any garden enthusiast. ing she ea anging as e a e Harrison & Dunn, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA, t: 01780 762088

inol a en ha es Homebase, Unit 2, Stamford Retail Park, Ryhall Road, Stamford, PE9 1XT

oo en i ho se Perfect Presents, 11 St Pauls Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE, t: 01780 480379

alsall l as loa heel a o Stringers, Manning Road, Bourne, t: 01778 422420

o elo a e ing s e Harrison & Dunn, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA, t: 01780 762088

lea iel ell Robinson’s of Stamford, 4 St Marys Street, Stamford, PE9 2DE, t: 01780 755378

Briers Gloves, £2.99 Harrison & Dunn, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA, t: 01780 762088

ing she e a alls Harrison & Dunn, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA, t: 01780 762088 ing she e se ag Harrison & Dunn, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA, t: 01780 762088

44 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 44

20/02/2015 14:29:47

NOW STOCKISTS OF: Celebrity - Award Winning Riser Recliner Chairs La-Z-Boy Beds Rauch German Wardrobes

We offer a FREE OF CHARGE MEASURE UP and QUOTE SERVICE for our wardrobes M AT T R E S S E S • B E D S • B E D R O O M F U R N I T U R E • D I N I N G F U R N I T U R E M I R R O R S • R U G S • O C C A S I O N A L F U R N I T U R E • S O FA S • H O M E / G I F T W A R E Pop into our showroom to try out the Celebrity chairs and our fantastic La-Z-Boy beds

Unit 6 Hereward Estate, Cherry Holt Road, Bourne, PE10 9LA (opposite Branch Bros)

Call us on: 01778 420700 www.perfectforthehome.co.uk www.picnpay.co.uk

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 45

20/02/2015 10:20:50

'H)5( VL ( JQ

( WHV ( )5WLPD

4&+!,4 0,)21&,+0 )1! "+"/$6 0 3&+$ 4&+!,40 !,,/0

,6 <285 (;,67,1* &216(59$725< 522)

7RR KRW LQ VXPPHU RU WRR FROG LQ ZLQWHU" :DVWH RI YDOXDEOH OLYLQJ VSDFH" 8QDEOH WR UHOD[ WR ZDWFK 79"

before

after

KEEP CALM JUST CALL...

Carpet & Rug Cleaning â&#x20AC;¢ Stone Floor Cleaning Leather Cleaning â&#x20AC;¢ Upholstery Cleaning Contact your local eco-friendly cleaning specialists to see how we can solve your cleaning problems

t: 01572 503123

www.rutlandcleaning.co.uk

7UDQVIRUP \RXU FRQVHUYDWRU\ LQWR D FRPIRUWDEOH DOO \HDU URXQG OLYLQJ VSDFH

'48+%+0) )XOO UDQJH RI JDUGHQ URRPV DYDLODEOH

#5 n +. 1+.'4 '2#+45 .7/$+0) /'4)'0%+'5

$5($6 /$5*(67 ,1'225 6+2:5220 *877(5,1* )$6&,$6 &/$'',1*

0DQXDO $QG (OHFWULF 'RRUV $YDLODEOH ,Q $ 5DQJH 2I &RORXUV

before aftf er

2'%+#.+565 +0 '0'9#$.' '%*01.1)+'5

NEKLN HLFNGM 999T2.7/$+0)56#/(14&T%1T7-

7HOHSKRQH ZZZ IRXUVHDVRQV FR XN

'HVLJQ +RXVH 0HDGRZ 'URYH '\NH %RXUQH 3( $+ Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 46

20/02/2015 10:21:15

Total

Recall T

here is nothing as exciting as off-lead time to a dog. It’s a chance to run unrestricted at full speed, investigate rabbit holes, snuffle about in shrubbery, and generally have the freedom to kick up their heels and feel the wind in their ears. However, such liberty can only be enjoyed if there is a sporting chance that the dog is, at some point, going to come back to its human.

Recall is arguably about the most important thing a dog needs to know and the one that owners struggle with the most. Dogs generally come into three schools of recall, the immediate, the eventually and the ‘you have to be joking’. The first is no problem and the last would never be released until training was completed, but, it is the in-between which causes the most consternation and, if mishandled, can easily turn a dog into a habitual absconder. It’s a good idea to start recall training at home. Calling the dog to you and rewarding with a treat is getting him used to coming when you want him, however, outside there are any number of distractions to undo your good work. A long or extendable lead can be a huge training aid, the dog can be tempted

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 47

back on his own terms without being able to get into any real trouble if he falters. Once reasonably confident in the return rate, a safe place, away from the danger of roads or livestock can be a good environment to put all your preparation to the ultimate test and let him loose. Dogs are not stupid which is what makes them so trainable, so at this point it is important to avoid accidentally training unwanted behaviour. Imagine you are at home watching a gripping programme on the television, it comes to the point where your team is about to score or the soap cliffhanger is resolved and someone calls you from the other room. Do you immediately run to see them? Probably not. From our dog’s point of view, he hears his name and has every intention of coming back, he just wants to finish what he’s is doing. All too often the dog will eventually trot back to its human, confident in having done as asked, only to find he is being berated or punished and put back on the lead because his response was not immediate. This only causes confusion. The next time he is called back and does not obey straight away, he notices the signs. The owner’s raised voice and agitation. He hesitates. Am I going to get told off again?

Am I going to lose my freedom? I’ll just wait here until it’s clearer. By this time the owner has turned a fairly unpleasant shade of purple and is possibly bellowing like an injured yak. The dog definitely decides that keeping his distance until his person at least returns to a normal colour is sensible. Sadly, he is also beginning to think obeying this recall is a terrible idea. When the heavens have opened, you are rapidly becoming late for work and you call your dog only to have him spend an eternity sniffing the same spot or charge off on an independent spree, it is frustrating to feel so defied. Sometimes people will even begin to panic and run towards the animal, but with his four legs he can easily outpace a human and chase is a wonderful game which he always wins. The best course of action is to take a deep breath and moderate the tone of voice. It doesn’t actually matter what you say. While smiling sweetly through gritted teeth trill cheerfully “you’re a disobedient little monster aren’t you?” The dog will be reassured that his return, albeit belated, was the right response and the owner is able to vent a little frustration without doing any real damage to the recall relationship.

20/02/2015 10:21:16

imagine comfort

www.stressless.co.uk

Available in:

3 colours & sizes

immediate delivery Diplomat Recliners now

Mancetter Square, Lincoln Rd, Peterborough PE4 6BX Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm. Sun 11am to 4pm. T: 01733 325 566

£899 Save £250*

PETERBOROUGH RECLINER CENTRE LTD www.peterboroughrecliners.co.uk

*Terms and Conditions apply: Available only in Batick cream leather with natural wood finish, Batick burgundy leather with mahogany wood finish and Batick brown leather with brown wood finish. Stressless® Diplomat (Small) RRP £1149. Stressless® Consul (medium) RRP £1289. Stressless® Ambassador (large) RRP £1469. Immediate delivery available while stocks last. Oﬀer valid while stocks last. Main image features the Stressless® Magic recliner.

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 48

20/02/2015 10:35:40

National Association Of Goldsmith Members

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 49

20/02/2015 10:36:02

Diamonds

are a girls BEST FRIEND

enhams the Jewellers opened its Stamford store in November last year, specialising in beautiful diamond jewellery. Concept paid the store a visit and caught up with owner, Sarah Stamp and Stamford store manager, Jennifer Hayes. Denhams the Jewellers has been a family run business since 1951, with the original store on Belvoir Street in Leicester. Sarah Stamp joined the business in 1989 as 15-year-old straight out of school and quickly realised this was the business she wanted to be in. “I insisted on being professionally trained, so I gained my retail jewellers qualification and went onto become a gemmologist in 1995,” says Sarah. In 2000 Sarah bought half the company and in 2009 bought the remaining owner out fully when he retired. Sarah opened a second

shop in her home town, Market Harborough, in 2013, and then the Stamford branch in St Mary’s Street in November 2014. The Stamford store is the biggest, with a large workshop and offices to accommodate the ever-expanding business. Over the years Denhams has built up a large clientele supplying customers only the best quality diamonds, coloured gemstones, gold and silver jewellery. But it is diamonds that Denhams has become known for, and diamonds are Sarah’s passion: “I think possibly I have the best job in the world being able to go directly to London and choose

Denhams Jewellers: 8 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DE, t: 01780 757131, www.denhams.co.uk 18 Belvoir Street, Leicester LE1 6QH, t: 01162 555372

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 50

2 The Square, Market Harborough LE16 6PA, t: 01858 410395

20/02/2015 10:36:31

The four C’s

OF CHOOSING A DIAMOND When it comes to buying a diamond engagement ring, there are four C’s you have to look out for — cut, colour, clarity and carat.

Cut between hundreds of carats to obtain the most perfect diamonds for all my customers. Dealing with diamonds, gold, platinum and pearls is sometimes like being a sweetie shop for me.” Not only do Denhams have a full collection of diamond and gold jewellery - specialising in engagement and wedding rings - it also has a very large range of contemporary silver jewellery to suit everyone’s budgets. The team pride themselves on helping customers choose the right piece of jewellery for every occasion. Denhams also specialise in bespoke jewellery design, employing talented

We do pride ourselves on our personal service

The cut of a diamond determines the brilliance and shine of the rock. If a diamond has been cut symmetrically, light will enter vertically and also exit vertically, giving an array of colours to the viewer. If a diamond is too shallow and hasn’t been cut well, light will still enter 100% vertically but escape through the sides and back of the gem, giving a duller appearance. Width of table

Concept_March 15_26-51.indd 51

Depth of pavillion Height of crown Depth of pavillion

Shallow

Deep

Shallow

‘Ideal’ Cut

Deep

‘Ideal’ Cut

Round Brilliant

Oval

Round Brilliant

Marquise

Oval

Pear

Marquise

Heart

Pear

Heart

Emerald

Clarity D all

E F diamonds

L M O Pnatural Q cracks, R S -lines Z Nearly clarity refersN to those and blemishes Colourless you find. While a completely a fl awed Near Colourless flawless stone will reflect more light than Light Near Colourless Slightly Tinted Faint Yellow Very Light Yellow Yellow D higher E F I these J K erences L Musually N P Q to Rthe Suntrained -Z one, at the end ofG the Hmarket diff goO unnoticed eye and can only really be seen through a magnifying glass. Near Colourless Light Colourless Near Colourless Faint Yellow Very Light Yellow

G have

H I J K imperfections, and

Slightly Tinted

100% Width of table

Flawless

designers who have the knowledge and the vision to turn an idea into an individual design – whether that is a completely new piece, or re-setting an older piece of jewellery. “We do pride ourselves on our personal service,” says Sarah. “We have customers who come back again and again. But I haven’t done this all alone; I have a great team around me. I like to get people working well together and I can truly say that the environment in which we work at Denhams is second to none. The atmosphere is always upbeat, we try not to have too many strict rules or constraints and as a result this hopefully benefits our customers.” Jennifer Hayes is the store manager at Stamford and has been with Denhams since 2011. She has a degree in jewellery and metalwork from Sheffield Hallam University and started off her career on the work bench at Wongs Jewellers in Liverpool. “My background is in design, which I find very helpful when talking to customers about different options they have,” says Jennifer. Jennifer is joined in the Stamford store by Stamford local, Emily Eastman. Emily has worked in jewellery for over 12 years and has a passion for precious and non-precious gemstones.

Height of crown

100% Width of table

100% IF FL Width of table

Flawless

VVS1

VVS2

Very, very small

inclusion Height of VVS VVS2 1 crown Depth of pavillion Height of crown Very, very small

inclusion

Depth of pavillion

VS1

VS2

Yellow

SI1

SI2

Very small inclusion VS1 VS2

Small inclusion SI1 SI2

Very small inclusion

Small inclusion

Round

I2 Inclusion I2

Marquise

Inclusion

Colour Oval

Pear

Heart

Emerald

Brilliant ColourShallow refers to absence or presence of colour in a white diamond. The least colour a Deepthe ‘Ideal’ Cut Round Pear Emerald Brilliant diamond has, the more valuable and rareOvalit is. ThMarquise e range starts fromHeart colourless, grade D, Shallow Deep ‘Ideal’ Cut 0.01 carat 0.02 carat 0.03 carat 0.05 carat 0.10 carat 0.15 carat 0.20 carat 0.25 carat tints of being of the highest quality and goes down to grade Z, a diamond that has more 1.35 mm 1.70 mm 2.00 mm 2.40 mm 3.00 mm 3.40 mm 3.80 mm 4.10 mm colour such as brown and yellow. 0.01 carat 1.35 mm

0.02 carat 1.70 mm

0.03 carat 2.00 mm

0.05 carat 2.40 mm

0.10 carat 3.00 mm

D E F G H I J K L M 0.30 carat 0.40 carat 0.50 carat 0.75 carat 1.00 carat mm D4.40 mm E F4.70 mm G H5.00Near I Colourless J5.80 mm K L6.50 mm M Colourless Near Colourless Slightly Tinted Faint Yellow 0.30 carat 0.40 carat 0.50 carat 0.75 carat 1.00 carat Near Colourless Colourless 4.40 mm 4.70Near mmColourless 5.00Slightly mm Tinted5.80 mm Faint Yellow 6.50 mm

0.15 carat 3.40 mm

0.20 carat 3.80 mm

N O P Q 2.00 carat 3.00 carat N8.20 mm O P9.50 mm Q Very Light Yellow 2.00 carat 3.00 carat Very Light9.50 Yellow 8.20 mm mm

0.25 carat 4.10 mm

R S-Z 4.00 carat 10.50 mm R S-Z Light Yellow 4.00 carat Light 10.50Yellow mm

Carat Carat isFLtheIFunit VVS used VVS to measure the weight of a diamond, not the size. Therefore it may VS1 VS2 SI1 SI2 I1 I2 I3 1 2 appear bigger but may weigh less, so it is worth taking your time to absorb its splendour. FL IF VVSvery VS1small VS2 SI I1 I2 I3 Small 1 small 1 SI2 Flawless Inclusion One carat weighsVery, one fiVVS fth2 ofVery a gram, with five carats equalling one gram. When there is inclusion inclusion inclusion Very, very small Very small Small such as on a diamond more thanFlawless one diamond on a piece of jewellery cluster ring or a three Inclusion inclusion inclusion inclusion stone pendant, the stones are weighed together rather than individually.

0.01 carat 1.35 mm 0.01 carat 1.35 mm

0.02 carat 1.70 mm 0.02 carat 1.70 mm

0.03 carat 2.00 mm 0.03 carat 2.00 mm

0.05 carat 2.40 mm 0.05 carat 2.40 mm

0.10 carat 3.00 mm 0.10 carat 3.00 mm

0.15 carat 3.40 mm 0.15 carat 3.40 mm

0.20 carat 3.80 mm 0.20 carat 3.80 mm

0.25 carat 4.10 mm 0.25 carat 4.10 mm

0.30 carat 4.40 mm 0.30 carat 4.40 mm

0.40 carat 4.70 mm 0.40 carat 4.70 mm

0.50 carat 5.00 mm 0.50 carat 5.00 mm

0.75 carat 5.80 mm 0.75 carat 5.80 mm

1.00 carat 6.50 mm 1.00 carat 6.50 mm

2.00 carat 8.20 mm 2.00 carat 8.20 mm

3.00 carat 9.50 mm 3.00 carat 9.50 mm

4.00 carat 10.50 mm 4.00 carat 10.50 mm

20/02/2015 10:36:32

KENYA:

unforgettable wildlife experiences in the midst of iconic landscapes

Tail or made Ho l id ays Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 52

20/02/2015 11:12:25

enya has long been a safari favourite – home to some of the world’s most famous national parks and reserves, with rolling plains, great lakes and vast wildernesses, rich in African wildlife from big cats to even bigger elephants and rhino. Kenya is also blessed with a tropical coastline, fringed with powder white sands lapped by stunning azure waters. With over 40 national parks and reserves, Kenya offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. The most well-known of all its game parks is the Maasai Mara – the subject of many wildlife documentaries, with its wide open savannah and majestic big cats. People also flock here to witness what is hailed as the ‘greatest show on earth’; the annual migration. The largest mass movement of land mammals on earth, the great migration sees over one million stampeding wildebeest and other grazing herbivores journey the 300 miles from the Serengeti in Tanzania to Kenya’s Maasai Mara. A rough pattern occurs each year as the herds follow the rains to secure a good water supply and fertile grass – usually gracing the Maasai Mara between August and October. But there is far more to Kenya than the great migration and the Mara, with just as much on offer for experienced wildlife enthusiasts as first-time safari goers. Venture to the giants of Tsavo East and Tsavo West for wonderfully varied landscapes. Visit

beautiful Amboseli National Park, home to herds of elephants dwarfed by magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro, or seek out the unique wildlife of Samburu National Reserve, such as the long-necked gerenuk or reticulated giraffe. Bird lovers will delight in the Great Rift Valley’s lakes. In Kenya you’ll have a great chance of seeing the ‘big five’ (a phrase coined by African hunters to group the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot: the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhino). Magnificent though they are - and they really are - don’t forget to appreciate the other species that inhabit this incredible country. There are many ways to discover Kenya. Travel around by minibus, coach or by light aircraft; choose a scheduled safari or tailor-make your own; join a group or opt for a private vehicle. You can stay in national parks or neighbouring conservancies; and choose from rustic camping safaris to the ultimate in luxury lodges. For something

Good to know Time difference: GMT +3 hours Capital: Nairobi

Currency: Kenyan shilling although US$ are widely accepted

Flying time to destination: 8½ hours to Nairobi; 9½ hours to Mombasa via Nairobi

Best time to visit • Kenya is warm year-round as it spans the equator

• It can be cold in early morning and at night on safari

• January - March is generally dry, and there are two rainy seasons from April - June and October -December • The hottest months are February - March

• July - October is the annual wildebees migration on the Maasai Mara depending on rains. extra special, opt for a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, drifting over the vast plains as the first signs of life appear below. On a safari with Kuoni, we ensure that each overland vehicle used for game viewing has a maximum of six passengers, so that each person gets a window seat and space to stand and look out through the pop-up roof. Together with Tanzania, Kenya is also one of the best places for a safari and beach holiday - a popular honeymoon choice. The vibrant city of Mombasa is the gateway to Kenya’s tranquil coast which boasts a diverse blend of cultures, sights, and over 300 miles of palm-fringed beaches stretching from the small town of Malindi in the north to the dazzling white sands of Diani in the south. Brilliant year round temperatures coupled with azure waters make for a wonderfully relaxing break – or a more active one if you desire it, with plenty of watersports on offer too.

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 53

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 53

20/02/2015 11:08:03

BIOMASS

Save ÂŁÂŁÂŁâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on your fuel bills and receive ÂŁÂŁÂŁâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) SP Renewable Energy is your approved Windhager biomass installer. Working with Windhager products we guarantee a trouble free, low maintenance system

Quality Professional Get in touch today and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll demonstrate what a

Home Service biomass system could be worth to you in fuel â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE CARPET SHOP THAT COMES TO YOUâ&#x20AC;? Quality, Professional Home Service

savings and RHI payments Typical example:

35kw wood pellet system RHI payments to you = ÂŁ5611 per annum or ÂŁ42,992 over 7 years Fuel saving per annum compared to an oil fired system = ÂŁ835 Total potential return over 7 years = ÂŁ48,837

HOME CHOOSE CAPETS

01778 346918

01780 482039

www.plumbingstamford.co.uk

Unit K Bentley Business Park, Market Deeping PE6 8LD

www.homechoose-carpets.co.uk

7 Days a Week - Day/Evening | No Obligation Quotes | Extensive & Exclusive Ranges | 1000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Samples

3URIHVVLRQDO *DUDJH 'RRU 6HUYLFHV 1HZ 'RRUV 5HSDLUV 6HUYLFLQJ

$XWRPDWLF 2SHQHUV 5ROOHU 6KXWWHUV 6HFWLRQDO 'RRUV

:H RIIHU D ZLGH UDQJH RI JDUDJH GRRUV WKURXJK D VHOHFWLRQ RI ZHOO NQRZQ VXSSOLHUV

6SHFLDOLVWV LQ JDUDJH GRRU FRQYHUVLRQV

7ZR GRRUV EHFRPH RQH FUHDWLQJ PRUH GULYH WKURXJK ZLGWK

$ FRPSOHWH SURIHVVLRQDO VHUYLFH

)5(( TXRWDWLRQV QR FDOO RXW FKDUJH

/*'6HUYLFHV /LQFV *DUDJH 'RRU

7HO ZZZ OLQFVJDUDJHGRRUVHUYLFHV FR XN 54 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 54

T. Windows & 19 Conservatories 92 FREEPHONE 0800 0853482

BIOMASS

Units G & H Bentley Business Park, Blenheim Way, Northfields Industrial Market Deeping, Peterborough, PE6 8LD

OPEN Save ÂŁÂŁÂŁâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on your fuel bills and receive ÂŁÂŁÂŁâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 10am-4pm www.sanjwindows.co.uk through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)

SP Renewable Energy is your approved Windhager biomass installer. Working with Windhager products we guarantee a trouble free, low maintenance system 20/02/2015 Get in touch today and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll demonstrate what a

10:37:52

YOGA

for Everyone I

t was perhaps once seen purely as the domain of stickthin ladies tying themselves in knots or bearded Yogi’s meditating for hours on mountainsides, but with today’s hectic lifestyles, many people are turning to yoga for both their physical and mental wellbeing. Stamford Yoga’s Marcus ParrBlack has been teaching since 2000. We spoke to him about the discipline and how it is accessible to everyone. Q: “Marcus why did you decide to take up yoga?” A: “I had been searching for years for ways to deal with weight issues, always being chubbier than I had liked. At the time I was a professional horse trials rider when I came across a video that explained yoga could help with weight loss and make the body leaner. So I tried it and lost weight very quickly, about 2.5 stone in 3 months, it just fell off me! Additionally, I had suffered for years with worry, panic attacks and lack of confidence. The more I practiced yoga the more tools I had to deal with these conditions. The breathing techniques were a massive help as were the postures. Some have a calming effect on the mind and others can give a feeling of confidence. I have always been interested in spirituality but not religion, the fact that yoga is a philosophy and not a religion appeals to me very much. Everything about yoga helped me to heal myself on all levels and bring out the true me.” Q: “Tell me about your first lessons and what kind of students were you with?” A: “I loved my first experiences. The seemingly infinite variety of yoga postures excited my interest and still does. Every routine can be different. When I trained with my teacher Anne-Marie Newland in Leicester, founder of Sun Power Yoga, the class members were very fit athletic types from the university yet they found the flexibility aspect just as challenging as everybody else. Intermingled in the class were complete beginners and the beauty of yoga is that some variations can be given to encourage the less adept and others to challenge the more experienced at the same time.” Q: “And what is it that keeps you and your students hooked?” A: “I love the feeling of wellbeing yoga gives you. It is addictive. It recoups the energy and settles the mind. An overactive mind is one of the biggest causes of stress and fatigue. Yoga builds confidence and self-acceptance. I love the way it makes you look and feel more youthful. Regular practitioners have a glow about them and often look much younger than their years. We have a yoga for youthfulness and beauty class. One student in her late thirties left the class and went to a local supermarket, she was delighted to report back she had been asked for her ID to confirm her age, another was asked if she was in the early stages of pregnancy because she had ‘that glow’ about her.” Q: “What would you say to someone who wants to try yoga but feel they might not be ‘spiritual or serious’ enough?” A: “Personally yoga makes me lighter and happier and I seek the same with any class I attend. Look for teachers who are themselves and not trying to follow stereotypes. Yoga can suit whatever mood you are in and whatever stage of life you are at. You can practice yoga and still maintain a down to earth quality and have a sense of humour.”

Stamford Yoga oﬀer classes in three locations, Stamford, Castor and Eastrea. For more information contact Marcus on telephone: 01733 689 041, Mobile: 07738 272 474 or Email: info@stamfordyoga.co.uk

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 55

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 55

20/02/2015 10:37:53

Beef should be hung after slaughter for an optimum period of two weeks, although some prefer to leave it for four or more. Hanging beef gives the enzymes and bacteria in the meat time to start breaking down the fibres, which, in time, makes the meat more tender and gives it more flavour. It helps the meat lose moisture – making it better for cooking – and darkens the flesh to a deep-red colour. To ensure you are buying good beef, always buy from a reputable butcher and don’t be afraid to ask how long the meat has been hung.

BUYING TIPS:

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Beef from a good-quality, independent butcher is more likely to be worth eating. • Beef should be deep, dark red in colour. • Look for marbling: the little streaks of fat running through the leaner muscle. Marbling enables the beef to ‘baste’ itself from within during cooking. • A layer of firm, creamy-white fat around the outside of a nicely marbled joint is a sign of a properly reared, good-quality animal. • Good-quality, properly hung beef should look dry and be slightly sticky and yielding to the touch. The FOREQUARTER runs from the neck to the last rib bone. These muscles have had to work hardest, so cuts tend to be less tender. They require slower methods of cooking, such as stewing, braising, mincing and pot-roasting. The NECK is usually made into best-quality beef mince for slow cooking. The CHUCK AND BLADE is from the first two ribs and is usually sliced or diced for braising. The MIDDLE RIBS often carry more fat than the chuck. Boned and rolled into a joint for slow cooking, or sliced and diced for braising. The FORE RIBS are shaped like a long line of large beef chops, and are considered one of the prime

cuts for roasting on the bone. Can be boned and rolled into a neat joint, or sliced across into RIB-EYE STEAKS. The BRISKET is from the belly. Usually boned and rolled and ideal for slow or pot-roasting. The SHIN is often sliced to give neat, medallion-shaped pieces of meat. Ideal for stewing.

The HINDQUARTER is the back end of the animal. These cuts are more tender – ideal for roasting and quicker cooking methods. The SIRLOIN is boned and rolled into a neat joint or sliced across into SIRLOIN STEAKS. But if the sirloin muscle and the underlying fillet are left on the bone, it can be sliced across to produce T-BONE STEAKS. The FILLET or UNDERCUT can be rolled into a joint or sliced into FILLET STEAKS. Very lean and tender, with less flavour than cuts from the rump or sirloin but more expensive.

The RUMP is a very lean, tender cut that is always sliced into steaks. The TOPSIDE is a large, lean cut of beef, rolled and divided into two or three boneless joints. The SILVERSIDE is very similar to topside, but requires slower cooking. Used to make salt beef or corned beef. The TOP RUMP or THICK FLANK is a lean cut that is ideal for roasting, or can be thinly sliced to provide an inexpensive FRYING STEAK. The LEG is the top of the back leg, which is usually sliced and has similar qualities to shin. Best suited to slow, moist methods of cooking.

Easter at

SANDALLS

For many years lamb was the traditional Easter dish, but now that spring lamb is not available until later in the year, many people choose poultry or beef. We have a limited number of Cockerels and Turkeys available. If it’s beef you prefer here are our top tips for the perfect roast: 1. Ensure that your joint is at room temperature before putting it in the oven (a large joint might need to be left out of the fridge overnight) 2. Preheat the oven to 240°C/fan220°C/gas 9, or as high as it will go. 3. Rub the outside of the joint with soft beef dripping or oil and season with salt and pepper. 4. Place in a roasting tin and cook in the oven for 15 minutes until nicely browned all over. 5. Then lower the oven temperature to 190°C/

fan170°C/gas 5 and cook for 12-13 minutes per 500g for rare, 17-18 minutes per 500g for medium or 22-24 minutes per 500g for well done. 6. Remove the beef from the oven, transfer to a plate or board and cover with foil. 7. Allow the joint to “rest” for 30-60 minutes before carving (this gives you time to turn the oven up for roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding). 8. Carve the beef as thinly as you can and enjoy!

Sandalls Butchers | 15 West Street, Bourne PE10 9NB (incorporating Andrew's of Bourne and Fancourts Farm Shop)

Tel: 01778 423301 | www.butchersinbourne.co.uk OPEN Tues - Fri: 7am - 5pm | Sat: 7am - 3pm | Sun - Mon: Closed

56 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 56

20/02/2015 10:47:34

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

TUMERIC

With a peppery, warm, bitter flavour and mild fragrance tumeric is perfect for use in curries and adding colour and flavour to salads and dressings.

CHILLI FLAKES

The perfect way to add a bit of heat to your cooking. Ideal for sprinkling over pizzas, pastas, salads and infusing cooking oils.

CLOVES

With their strong flavours a little can go a long way. Add to fruit pies, cakes and desserts to add a warm spicy flavour. Cloves can also be added to relishes and chutneys to give another dimension.

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 57

PAPRIKA

Adding both colour and flavour to dishes, paprika goes well with just about any savoury food, including eggs, meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, rice, and creamy sauces.

YELLOW MUSTARD SEEDS

Mustard seeds can add a spicy, aromatic rustic taste and fragrance to your cooking. Widely used in Indian cooking.

PARSLEY

No kitchen should go without this multi-purpose herb. It can be used as a garnish or for flavouring. Parsley can be used in almost any savoury dish.

s people become more daring with the food they are cooking and willing to try, our collection of herbs and spices grow. Food is always better when properly seasoned and our selection of herbs and spices will give you all the choice you need in seasoning your food.

MIXED PEPPERCORNS

Place in a pepper mill and grind generously onto meat or fish to add an aromatic pepper flavour, or mix into a bread base to make a colourful seasoned bread.

BLACK MUSTARD SEEDS

In comparison to the mild taste of the yellow mustard seeds, the black seeds from a different region have a much stronger pungent flavour.

ITALIAN SEASONING

A versatile mixture of spices and herbs to capture the flavours found in Italian cooking, best used with pizza, pasta and hearty stew dishes to add a boost of flavour.

20/02/2015 14:56:50

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice

Wild Thing

by Emma Barnes

by Stamford Library Adult Choice

Long Way Home by Eva Dolan

A man is burnt alive in a garden shed in Peterborough. Detective Inspector Zigic and Detective Sergeant Ferreira from the Peterborough Hate Crimes Unit are called to investigate the murder. The door was padlocked and accelerant had been used, this was not an accident. The man is identified as a migrant worker, Jaan Sepulov, who was living in the shed. The owners of the shed have good cause to wish him removed and they claim that they did not notice that the shed was on fire until the fire brigade arrived. Sepulov had come to Peterborough to look for his brother, Viktor, who hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been seen since he left to take a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;good jobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The search had led Sepulov to a slum landlord, who had overcrowded the migrants in poor conditions. He had been seen arguing with the landlord. Other lines of enquiry lead to a right wing arsonist and to a pub known for prostitution. In his search for his brother Sepulov has upset a lot of people.

=EJEJC

Peterborough has long had a large migrant population and it is now getting more and more diverse. One group of nationals does not trust another and no one trusts or cooperates with the police. The gang masters control all the available work and are feared by the workers. Zigic and Ferreira have to work in a community with many secrets to hide. The racial tension increases as they search for the killer.

Long Way Home is a good crime novel which tackles the migrant workers issue. This is the first novel by Eva Dolan and begins a series set in the Peterborough area. The local setting adds extra interest. The police are working out of Thorpe Wood Police Station and many local places are mentioned.

)" /1

C ?K QG

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 58

Wild Thing is the naughtiest little sister ever. Kate lives with her dad and her little sister, who is the naughtiest little sister any poor girl could have. Kate has tried to get rid of her, but no one else wants her. When Wild Thingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not getting things stuck up her nose, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biting peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bottoms and scaring the neighbours. Long suffering Kate has to put up with a dad who forgets important things like school uniform and her sister who is guaranteed to embarrass her on a regular basis and to make things worse Wild Thing starts school next term at Kateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school. This is a funny lively book with good illustrations. Wild Thing is the first in a series of books about Kate and her sister which will appeal to any child with a younger brother or sister.

Lincolnshire Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book Award The Lincolnshire Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book Award is run annually by Lincolnshire libraries for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Best Readâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the year as voted for by young people in Lincolnshire aged 9 - 14. To take part in the LYPB award process young people need to: â&#x20AC;˘ Be 9 - 14 years old

â&#x20AC;˘ Live or go to school in Lincolnshire, or use Lincolnshire library services. Young People can vote on line, at their local library or through their school. They can also send us their comments and book reviews as well as artwork. For more information see www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/libraries

Lincolnshire Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book award Short list 2015 9-11 year old category â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Bubble Wrap Boy by Phil Earle Wild Thing by Emma Barnes Burning Moon by Dan Abnett The Lost Gods by Francesca Simon My Brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shadow by Tom

12-14 year category â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

The Awakening by G L Twynham Echo Boy by Matt Haig Half my Facebook Friends are Ferrets by J A Buckle The Iron Trial by Holly Black The Dark Wild by Piers Torday

STAMFORD LIBRARY High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB, T: 01522 782010 stamford.library@lincolnshire.gov.uk Opening Times: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 9.00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5.00 Thursday: 9.00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6.00 Saturday: 9.00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4.00

20/02/2015 15:10:17

0LA?E=HEOP DEH@?=NA 1N=EJEJC 1A=I )A=@EJC *=J=CAIAJP QOEJAOO @IEJEOPN=PEKJ QOPKIAN 0ANRE?A %A=HPD 0K?E=H =NA

" ) ) & 3 0 " -) /1 # , / &* * " ! & 1 " 0 1

SSS NERANOE@APN=EJEJCOL=H@EJC ?K QG

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 59

20/02/2015 10:48:26

A B

Y. T

A L

K Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 60

Welcome to our new section designed for families with children under 5 years. Each month we will bring you a guide to local activities helping you get the best of what’s on locally for bump, babies and toddlers. Group

Time

Venue

Dinky Dancers: 2- 4 years

10am - 10.40am

Love Stamford

First Friends PEEP: 0 - 1 year

10am - 11am

Stamford Children’s Centre

Creative Explorers: 0 - 5 years

9.30am - 10.30am

Stamford Children’s Centre

Dinky Dancers

10am - 10.30am

The Yard

Tiddler PEEP: 1 - 2 years

11am - 12.30pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Family Fun Time: Parent led group

1.30pm - 2.30pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Breastfeeding Support Group

1.30pm - 3pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Young Parents & Young Expectant Parents

3pm - 4pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Growing Talk: Toddlers

9.30am - 10.15am 10.30am - 11am

Stamford Children’s Centre

International Toddler Group: 0 - 5 years

9.30am - 11am

Stamford Children’s Centre

Kids Company Crèche: By referral only

12.45pm - 3.45pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Baby Yoga

11.30am - 12.45pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Story Time: Preschool

2pm - 2.30pm

Stamford Library

Tatty Bumpkin Yoga & Movement

2.30pm

The Yard

Play Therapy: By referral only

9am - 5pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Baby Signing

2pm

The Yard

Mixed PEEP: 0 - 5 years

9.30am - 11am

Stamford Children’s Centre

Baby Yoga

9.45am - 11am

Stamford Children’s Centre

Building Blocks

10am - 11.30am

George’s Place

Baby Massage

11.15am - 12.30pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Cook Connect: 18 months +

11.30am - 1pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Happy Faces: 0 - 1 year

1pm - 2pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Musical Minis

1.30pm - 2.15pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Kids Company Crèche: By referral only

10am - 1pm

Stamford Children’s Centre

Story Time

11am - 11.30am

Stamford Library

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday Babies

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Before turning up to any event, please double check with the organiser that it is still going ahead as advertised. This is especially important over school holidays as some only run during term times. Some events may need to be booked in advance.

20/02/2015 10:48:47

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 61

20/02/2015 10:57:58

Little Miss Adventures Out and about with kids around Peterborough, Stamford & Bourne

Hills and Holes in Barnack H

ills and Holes is a perfect-sized walk for little legs (and not so little ones too) with the added bonus of lots and lots of hills to run up and down. Michelle Board heads along on a Sunday walk with the family. Since we live on the edge of the fens, hills are a bit of a novelty to Little Miss. Like most children her age, she likes to run up one side and then down the other (actually, usually falls down the other). But we don’t get a lot of opportunities to do this, unless you count the BMX track down at our local park. As Little Miss’s Dad and I did a lot of walking pre-Little Miss, and we’re now finding she’s at an age where she can manage a small walk (an hour or so) without the buggy. Hills and Holes is a Natural England nature reserve and its undulating mounds (hills and hollows) are the result of limestone quarrying in medieval times. Interesting fact: the limestone from this quarry was used to build the Peterborough and Ely cathedrals. Little Miss wasn’t in the least bit interested in any of the history, when she first saw all the mounds she said ‘it looks like the moon’. And, if you use your imagination, it probably does.

The site covers 50 acres of grassland, with scrubby bush and a few trees dotted around. There is a circular path that goes around the perimeter and is signposted from the car park. But there are also a lot of other small paths through the site. Little Miss, like most other children who were also there, enjoyed running up and down the hills. Some are actually quite steep and a bit slippery to negotiate in wellies – you have been warned! We also had a game a hide-and-seek, which was quite a lot of fun until it took me about 10 minutes to find Little Miss and Dad (I think they were moving around, although Dad says this is not true) and we decided it probably wasn’t the best game to play in such a wide area. Hills and Holes is home to several important (and rare) species of orchids, as well as other lime-loving plants such as pasque flower, wild thyme, violets, cowslip

ABOUT LITTLE MISS ADVENTURES Michelle Board is a writer, blogger and mum to ‘Little Miss’ – her 3-year-old daughter. Read more about their days out around Peterborough, Stamford and Bourne on www.littlemissadventures.net LittleMissAdventuresUK

@littlemissnmum

Location Hills and Holes is just outside Barnack village, on the Stamford side (west side). It’s not signposted from the main road (B1443), but is quite easy to find. If coming from Stamford, turn right at the war memorial just as you come into Barnack, then the next right (Wittering Road). If coming from Peterborough, drive through Barnack, go up the hill and take the left at the war memorial, then the next right (Wittering Road). Car parking There is a small car park on Wittering Road. The day we visited, it was nearly full (about 10 cars). There are also lay-bys you can park in. Eating and drinking

There are no facilities at Hills and Holes, although it would be a nice spot for a picnic in summer. There is a pub (The Millstone) in Barnack that does food.

Facilities There are no toilets on site. As mentioned, it’s not the most buggy-friendly site, especially in winter. An off-road buggy would probably cope, or take a baby carrier.

and ox-eye daisy – best seen in spring and summer. It is a Special Area for Conservation and half the surviving limestone grassland in Cambridgeshire is found at the site. It’s also a dog-friendly site and plenty of people were out with their dogs. I didn’t see anyone with a buggy – I think it would be hard-going in a normal buggy; an off-road type might be OK. I saw quite a few mums and dads with babies in carriers, and that would be the way to go. After about an hour, Little Miss decided she’d had enough of the moon, so we found our bearings again and headed back to the car. It’s a great place to go for a walk on a Sunday afternoon, with the added bonus of being somewhere the kids will also enjoy.

62 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 62

20/02/2015 10:58:25

MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 63

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 63

20/02/2015 10:58:29

THEDIRECTORY Aerial Services

Building Services

&20386$7

+$=(/:22'

$HULDOV 6HUYLFHV

'LJLWDO $HULDOV )UHHYLHZ +' )UHHVDW +' 6XSSOLHG )LWWHG ([WUD 79 SRLQWV IRU 6N\ 6HUYLFHG WRWDO LQ\ KRXU 6DWHOOLWH 6\VWHPV VROXWLRQRPH '$% $HULDOV &&79 $ODUP 6\VWHPV %7 7HOHSKRQH :RUN ([WUD %7 3RLQWV ([WUD 3RZHU 6RFNHWV

3+21( 12: )25 2))(56 Â&#x2021; 2$3 ',6&28176

0RE 7HO 4XHHQV 5G %RXUQH /LQFV 3( ';

)5(( 4827(6 Â&#x2021; $// :25. *8$5$17((' Â&#x2021; /2&$/ )$0,/< %86,1(66

Aerial Services

63. 'LJLWDO Aerials & Satellites

â&#x20AC;˘ LCD & Plasma TV Installations â&#x20AC;˘ Aerials Upgrades to Digital â&#x20AC;˘ Extra TV Points â&#x20AC;˘ Storm Damage â&#x20AC;˘ Swift, Reliable Service

Over 40 years experience No call out charge Call Steve Kruger

Mobile: 07949 783266 Office: 01780 782775

Bathrooms '2(6 <285 %$7+5220 1((' $ 0$.(29(5" Â&#x2021; 1HZ VXLWHV VXSSOLHG ILWWHG ZLWK IL[WXUHV Â&#x2021; $OO DVSHFWV RI SOXPELQJ XQGHUWDNHQ $ )ULHQGO\ DQG 7UXVWZRUWK\ 6HUYLFH

&DOO 5LFKDUG RQ

<HDUV ([SHULHQFH

/$1'6&$3(6

â&#x20AC;˘ Renovations â&#x20AC;˘ Extensions â&#x20AC;˘ Refurbishments â&#x20AC;˘ Bathrooms â&#x20AC;˘ Kitchens â&#x20AC;˘ New Builds â&#x20AC;˘ Loft Conversions â&#x20AC;˘ Insurance Works â&#x20AC;˘ All Carpentry Works â&#x20AC;˘ Plastering â&#x20AC;˘ Electricians â&#x20AC;˘ Plumbers â&#x20AC;˘ All Building Works â&#x20AC;˘ Commercial Insurance Work

Âł:RUNLQJ ZLWK QDWXUH IRU QDWXUHÂ´

Cleaning Services

Â&#x160;

!KIAOPE? HA=JANO /AMQENA@

NA 6KQÄŽ

/AHE=>HA %KJAOP =J@ 1NQOPSKNPDU >HA 1K HA=J 1K %ECD 0P=J@=N@ Z LAN DKQN Â? KQNJA =NA= %KQNO PK 0QEP 4A =NA = HKJC AOP=>HEODA@ HK?=H ?KIL=JU

KJP=?P 'Q@A KJÄŽ KN AI=EHÄŽ FQ@AÄąI=E@ ?HA=J ?K QG SSS I=E@ ?HA=J ?K QG >KQNJA

*=E@ HA=J Ä KQNJA )P@

Computer Services &20387(& 7HFK 6HUYLFHV

1HZ &RPSXWHUV /DSWRSV 8SJUDGHV 5HSDLUV IR 9LUXV 5HPRYDO \RXU FRU PDOO S +HDOWKFKHFNV QHHGV XWHU 'DWD %DFNXS 7UDQVIHU :LUHOHVV :LUHG +RPH 1HWZRUN ([WUD %7 3RLQWV )RU %URDGEDQG 3+21( 12: )25 2))(56 Â&#x2021; 2$3 ',6&28176

0RE 7HO 4XHHQV 5G %RXUQH /LQFV 3( ';

)5(( 4827(6 Â&#x2021; $// :25. *8$5$17((' Â&#x2021; /2&$/ )$0,/< %86,1(66

1ÄŽ *ÄŽ "ÄŽ EJBKÄą?A@=N>QEH@EJCOANRE?AO ?K QG 4ÄŽ SSS ?A@=N>QEH@EJCOANRE?AO ?K QG

Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹŻÇ Ĺ˝Ĺ˝Ä&#x161;ĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161;Ć?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Î&#x203A;Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x161;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ĺ?ĹŻÍ&#x2DC;Ä?Ĺ˝Ĺľ Ç Ç Ç Í&#x2DC;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹŻÇ Ĺ˝Ĺ˝Ä&#x161;ĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161;Ć?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Í&#x2DC;Ä?Ĺ˝Ĺľ

/DQGVFDSLQJ

7UHH &DUH

Íť WÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x;Ĺ˝Ć? Î&#x2DC; Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ç Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2021;Ć? Íť dĆľĆ&#x152;Ä¨ Î&#x2DC; WĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹśĆ&#x;ĹśĹ? Íť &Ä&#x17E;ĹśÄ?Ĺ?ĹśĹ?Í&#x2022; Ä&#x17E;Ä?ĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Î&#x2DC; 'Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć? Íť WĹ˝ĹśÄ&#x161;Ć? Î&#x2DC; tÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; &Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;ĆľĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ć?

Íť &Ä&#x17E;ĹŻĹŻĹ?ĹśĹ? Íť >Ĺ?ĹľÄ? ZÄ&#x17E;ĹľĹ˝Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ Íť Ć&#x152;Ĺ˝Ç Ĺś dĹ&#x161;Ĺ?ĹśĹśĹ?ĹśĹ? Íť ^Ć&#x161;ĆľĹľĆ&#x2030; 'Ć&#x152;Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x161;Ĺ?ĹśĹ? Íť ,Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E; ĆľĆŤĹśĹ? Íť &ĆľĹŻĹŻÇ&#x2021; Ĺ?ĹśĆ?ĆľĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;

Heating & Plumbing Handyman

ODD JOB BILL Brick & Stonework Repairs Slabwork Electrical Carpentry Projects Gardening Fencing Decorating Flat Pack Assembly For Jobs Big Or Small BILLYS THE MAN !

TEL: 01778 441261 or 07841 144524

Heating & Plumbing Kitchens

Man & Van Service MAN AND VAN FOR HIRE REMOVALS, HOUSE CLEARANCES, GARDENING ALL TYPE OF WORK CONSIDERED Call Esmond on

07714 215905

www.manandvanhireoakham.org.uk

redrooster515@hotmail.co.uk

No job too big or small I have a registered license to clear rubbish and waste. Collection of scrap metal free of charge I

I offer reasonable rates of pay

Plastering

1((' $ 1(: .,7&+(1" Â&#x2021; 6XSSO\ ILW Â&#x2021; 3OXPELQJ WLOLQJ Â&#x2021; /DERXU RQO\ Â&#x2021; )XOO SODQQLQJ VHUYLFH $ )ULHQGO\ DQG 7UXVWZRUWK\ 6HUYLFH

Committed To Delivering High Quality Jobs

&DOO 5LFKDUG RQ

<HDUV ([SHULHQFH

Logs 1N=@EPEKJ=H QEH@ANO 0PKJASKNG NE?GSKNG "TPAJOEKJO HPAN=PEKJO *=EJPAJ=J?A /AL=ENO J@ IQ?D IKNA

KÄ¸Ä?Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2014; ĎŹĎĎłĎłĎ´ ĎŻĎľĎ° Ď˛ĎĎ˛ :Ĺ˝Ä&#x17E;ĹŻÍ&#x2014; ĎŹĎłĎłĎąĎ° Ď´Ď˛ĎŻ ĎąĎąĎŻ :Ä&#x201A;ĹľÄ&#x17E;Ć?Í&#x2014; ĎŹĎłĎľĎ˛ĎŹ Ď°ĎľĎľ ĎłĎąĎ°

$OO $VSHFWV RI 3URIHVVLRQDO /DQGVFDSLQJ 7UHH 6XUJHU\

Tel: 01780 769154 Email: g.bell546@btinternet.com www.guybellbuilderltd.co.uk

Building Services

KJP=?P -APAN -NE?A

Gardening Services

External Rendering And All Your Plastering Needs 01778 560292 â&#x20AC;˘ 07860 817415 www.albysplastering.co.uk

Plumbing

Millwell Logs FREE DELIVERY & STACKING High Quality Mixed Hardwoods

WONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T BE BEATEN ON PRICE OR QUALITY 01780 410042 / 07778 416358 www.millwell-logs-rutland.co.uk

Â&#x2021; 5DGLDWRUV 3LSH :RUN Â&#x2021; %DWKURRPV :HW 5RRPV 3RZHU 6KRZHUV Â&#x2021; 7DS 5HSDLUV 5HSODFHPHQWV Â&#x2021; :DVKLQJ 0DFKLQH 'LVKZDVKHU ,QVWDOODWLRQ Â&#x2021; 6DQLWDWLRQ 'UDLQDJH 7RLOHW 5HSDLUV Â&#x2021; 7LOLQJ 3RUFK DQG *DUDJH &RQYHUVLRQV Â&#x2021; (PHUJHQF\ &DOO 2XWV

W P HPDLO IORZSOXPELQJ#PDLO FRP

64 / CONCEPT MAGAZINE MARCH 15

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 64

20/02/2015 10:58:44

THEDIRECTORY Plumbing

Security &20386(&85( 6HFXULW\ 6HUYLFHV

Servicing Gas & Oil Boiler Repairs Plumbing Emergencies Specialists in Renewable Technologies

:LUHG :LUHOHVV $ODUP 6\VWHPV &&79 1HWZRUN &&79 6\VWHPV ,QWUXGHU /LJKWLQJ

YOUR LOCAL PLUMBING COMPANY

CALL US NOW ON

Taxi Hire

1st Call County Taxis

WADES CARS CONVEYING CUSTOMERS COMFORTABLY

IRU DOO \RXU VHFX QHHGV ULW\

Fixed Rates On All Out Of Town Work Guaranteed When Pre-Booked

Private Hire Taxi Service

Airport Transfers

Airports, Seaports Contract 4 and 6 Seater Taxis

WADES CARS takes the stress away. We are only a call away.

4XHHQV 5G %RXUQH /LQFV 3( '; )5(( 4827(6 Â&#x2021; $// :25. *8$5$17((' Â&#x2021; /2&$/ )$0,/< %86,1(66

Telephone: 01780 765906 Mobile: 07940 225514

07900 820 043 / 07570 897 962

Solar

Vehicle Repairs

01780 482039

3+21( 12: )25 2))(56 Â&#x2021; 2$3 ',6&28176

0RE 7HO

www.plumbingstamford.co.uk

Podiatry

Taxi Hire

4, 6 and 8 seater available

www.wadescars.org.uk

-NKBAOOEKJ=H MQ=HEPU IK>EHA ?=N L=EJPSKNG NAL=ENO =P = BN=?PEKJ KB PN=@EPEKJ=H >K@U ODKL ?KOPO

Â&#x2039; .QE?G Â&#x2039; KJRAJEAJP Â&#x2039; -NKBAOOEKJ=H HOME VISITS FOR:* Removal of Corns and Calluses * Ingrowning Toenails * Toenails clipped * Fungal Nail Treatments * Specialising in the Diabetic and Neurovascular patient * competitive rates

ENERGY SAVING SOLUTIONS

YOUR LOCAL RENEWABLE ENERGY SPECIALISTS â&#x20AC;¢ ASHP â&#x20AC;¢ Solar PV â&#x20AC;¢ LED Lighting â&#x20AC;¢ Biomass

Telephone 07931 624325 email: hollywright18@yahoo.co.uk

Holly Wright MCFHP MAFHP

mark@manorenergy.co.uk

30 King Street, Industrial Estate, Langtoft, Peterborough, Lincolnshire PE6 9NF

FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Skip Hire

Roofing Wright Feet 5x1 NVL June.indd 1

01778 338337

3/5/13 10:58:06

LOCAL SKIP HIRE

GLEN SMITH

Roofing Services

6A40C B4AE824 6A40C ?A824B

New Work l Re Roofs Lead Work l Slating Fibre Glass Roofing Repairs l Fascias l Soffits

9 BZX_ 7XaT Ua^\ Â&#x2C6;&' ePc 9 BZX_ 1PVb Â&#x2C6;#$ 2^[[TRcTS 9 <P] EP] 2^[[TRcX^] BTaeXRT

5^a UdacWTa STcPX[b _[TPbT RP[[

07825 925223 I 01778 571919

01778 394 044 BTT cWT fTQbXcT fff Q^da]TbZX_WXaT QXi

glensmith2009@hotmail.co.uk

CITY AND GUILDS QUALIFIED

Roofing

S T A M F O R D

'HOLYHUHG WKURXJK WKH OHWWHUER[ WR KRPHV DQG EXVLQHVVHV LQ 6WDPIRUG HYHU\ PRQWK

3ULFHV VWDUW IURP MXVW e 9$7 SHU PRQWK

)RU IXUWKHU GHWDLOV FRQWDFW XV RQ 7 ( VDOHV#FRQFHSWPDJD]LQH FR XN

Storage

Window Repairs

Secure Container iner Storage Between Stamford ord & Oakham

)RU DOO \RXU 5HSDLUV WR :LQGRZV 'RRUV &RQVHUYDWRULHV

WELLAND ROOFING STAMFORD

FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE NEEDS â&#x20AC;¢ BLUE SLATING â&#x20AC;¢ CHIMNEY REPAIRS â&#x20AC;¢ SPECIALIST LEAD WORK â&#x20AC;¢ TILING â&#x20AC;¢ REPOINTING Chimneys / Roofs / Stonework â&#x20AC;¢ MOSS REMOVAL FULLY INSURED WORKING LOCALLY FOR OVER 30 YEARS anything from a slipped slate to a new roof

Telephone: 01780 765657 Mobile: 07768 890189 / 07977 414617 Email: wellandroofing@gmail.com

Short or Long Term Contract â&#x20AC;¢ 24 Hour Access â&#x20AC;¢ Locked Compound â&#x20AC;¢ Size 20ft x 8ft & 10ft x 8ft

01780 460465

www.rutlandselfstore.co.uk

z 3DWLR 1RW 5ROOLQJ z 'RRU 'URSSHG z 0LVW\ 8QLWV 'UDXJKW\ :LQGRZV z %URNHQ +LQJHV z 1HZ /RFNV z ([WUD 6HFXULW\ z 6WLFNLQJ 7LOW 7XUQ :LQGRZV z %URNHQ +DQGOHV z /HDNLQJ &RQVHUYDWRU\ z

5LQJ )RU $ )5(( &RQVXOWDWLRQ 2Q (PDLO ZLQGRZGRFWRU #DRO FRP

ZZZ ZLQGRZUHSDLUVOLQFV FRP MARCH 15 CONCEPT MAGAZINE / 65

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 65

20/02/2015 10:58:48

BLOGGING

Masterclass

tarted a blog but now sure what to do next? Or maybe you’ve been blogging for a while, but just lost your blogging mojo. This month’s masterclass brings together several tips and pointers to make the most of your blog.

Many people write a blog nowadays, whether it is a place to record your personal thoughts, or a blog for your business. In some ways, setting up your blog is the easy bit. Keeping it up-to-date and getting it in front of an audience is harder job; and one that does take time. But don’t despair, here are some great tips to keep you on track…

What is the point of your blog?

Why did you originally start your blog? What did you want to do with it? Go back and re-visit your original plans and aims as they might have changed. You may need to be quite specific; ie: if you’re writing a food blog what types of posts will you cover: restaurant reviews, recipes, food events, TV shows, interviews with chefs? Generally the more specific you can be with your blogging goals, the easier you’ll find it to plan and write posts.

How much time can you spare?

Most people who start a blog are surprised at how much time it does take up. You’ll need to factor in time for writing, finding photos (which may involve going out to take some), uploading and styling your post on your blog platform, promoting your post via email and social media and replying to any comments. Have a think about how much time you have available each day/week and use this to plan your content, which leads onto…

Have a blogging plan

Think what do people want that month, ie: in January they want bargains, resolutions and to lose weight/ eat healthier. October time could be good for starting Christmas planning posts. Also look for National days/ events, as you may be able to tie a post in with one of those. Use a spreadsheet to schedule in your posts and also your research (if you need to do any). Try to post regularly, and if you go away, use the schedule function in your blogging platform to post automatically.

Vary your content type

‘Top 10’ posts and ‘How to’ content is very popular and the kind of posts people like to share. These types of posts can take more thought and work, so take that into consideration when planning.

Use your social networks

Once you’ve written a post, promote it via all your

Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 66

social networks, whether that is Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest – whatever platforms you are on. Don’t forget to email your contacts as well. If you’ve mentioned a particular product, shop, restaurant, event or attraction, email that company and ask them to share you posts on their social media sites; most will gladly do so. And make sure it is easy for your readers to share your post. Most blogging platforms have a social media plug-in that allows readers to easily share posts.

Make the most of scheduling apps

There are lots of apps out there for help in scheduling social media posts. Hootsuite, TweetDeck, Socialoomph and Twuffer are just some of the many apps you can use to help schedule posts to your social media platforms. Certainly use them to save time, but also remember that the whole point of social media is to be ‘social’!

Comment on other blogs

Spend some time reading other relevant blogs and leaving comments on posts you enjoy. Share other people’s posts on your social media platforms too. Most bloggers are likely to return the favour.

Enjoy it!

Remember why you first started to blog. If you’re not enjoying it anymore, or it is a chore, sit back and take a look at what you’re trying to do. Maybe you’re trying to post too often. Or perhaps you’re no longer writing about what you love doing. Remember your blog can evolve with your life, so what started off as a parenting blog can evolve into a fashion blog as your circumstances change. Don’t be afraid to change what you’re writing about.

About the author

Michelle Board is a freelance copywriter, web editor and blogger. She is the editor of Stamford Concept, as well as writing for other national magazines on a variety of subjects from gardening to computer games, and everything in between. She writes her own blog littlemissadventures.net - about things to do with kids around Peterborough and Stamford, as well as advising businesses and organisations on blogging and blogger outreach. Find out more at michelleboard.co.uk

20/02/2015 10:59:16

THE LARGEST RANGE OF RECLINERS, RISER RECLINERS & FIRESIDE CHAIRS IN THE AREA AN INDEPENDENT FAMILY BUSINESS WITH A REPUTATION YOU CAN TRUST

MASSIVE STOCK CLEARENCE TO MAKE WAY FOR NEW LINES

Three Piece Suites

Care Recliners Fireside Chairs

BEST PRICES . BEST SERVICE . BEST QUALITY . GUARANTEED

FREE CUSTOMER PARKING OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR

*Subject to availability

FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 25 MILES Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 67

20/02/2015 11:00:03

(9(5<7+,1*

:( 728&+

78516 72

62/' /HW XV PRYH \RX

+KNPD 0PNAAP 0P=IBKN@ -" 6+ 1AHÄ¥ "I=EHÄ¥ EJBKÄ¨JAOPAOP=PAO ?K QG SSS JAOPAOP=PAO ?K QG

)) +,4 1, // +$" 6,2/ #/"" 3 )2 1&,+ Concept_March 15_52_68.indd 68

20/02/2015 11:00:22