Gravitas Winter Issue 2019

Your Free Copy £3.75 where sold

WINTER 19

Issue VIII

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05

letter

WELCOME

Happy New Year!

What a fabulous start to 2019 – the latest Gravitas has landed…

In this edition we cover all of the usual topics that you have grown to enjoy and look forward to.

We have a fabulous fashion feature showcasing how to layer up and keep warm this winter, with layers to peel off when it gets a little warmer.

Did you know that Kai, owner of the Pkai hair salon chain, is also a brilliant photographer? Kai is frequently asked to take photo’s at fashion shows and hair styling events. His passion comes through on the interview on pages 20-21.

Cover

We have the latest news on face, skin and body products and treatments to give you back your glow that a little over indulgence can take away!

Models - Amber Tutton Makeup – Amie Nixon (Bellamie) Photography & Hair – Kai Wan from Pkai

We have been busy talking to local businesses and entrepreneurs about what inspires them and drives them to succeed – the buzz word is ‘passion’ and do not be afraid try something different. There is so much help and advice out there for anyone looking to start a new business venture, as well as expand or improve an existing one.

Look at our business section on pages 70-91.

These are just a few highlights in the Winter edition, there is still lots more news, updates and reviews in out home, food and travel features.

We wish you all a fabulous 2019.

The Gravitas Team

Heidi Semple - Publisher

Each issue of Gravitas is brought to you with pleasure and sincerity by a dedicated team of local professionals.

Do follow us on our social media platforms for updates and details on local news and events.

@gravitas_mag @gravitas_magazine @gravitasmagazine FB Group - Gravitas magazine 01778 382762 07966 964520 gravitasmagazine.co.uk

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Contents

Below is the reason that Gravitas reads and looks so fabulous…

Heidi Semple – Publisher

07-10 Entrées

Something to get you started.

Louise Dennington – Sub Editor

11-19 Fashion

Winter layering and how to get it right.

11-19

20-33 Health & Beauty

Editorial contributors

34-39 Escape

Garry Crosby, Concetta Laquintana, Lizzie Benton & Beverley Spencer - Mindfulness

40-43 Driven

34-39

gravitasmagazine.co.uk

Jenny Garford – Food Reviews & Home Interiors

Guy Porter – Business Networking

We review the delicious food at country gastro pub, Paper Mills in Wansford, and show off some of the region’s best places to eat.

90-98 Out & About What’s on, where and when.

Reckless Abandon Media – Videography

With special thanks to...

Features

Kai Wan Prevost Sycamore Kwoklyn Wan Sukhi Wahiwala Khadija Kalef Parveen Ashraf

Photo shoot Peterborough Arena - Location Nicole Heath – Womens outfits and styling Jenny Garford – Mens and womens outfits and styling

90-98

LET’S GET SOCIAL ...

More Travel – Travel

44-55 Homestyle

Business interviews and advice from our local experts, plus interviews with Apprentice star Khadija Kafila and local entrepreneur Sukhi Wahiwala.

70-89

Alex Russo - Fitness

Taylor Rose – Commercial Premises

70-89 Down to Business

56-69

Freya Pell – Beauty

Buckles – Wills

56-69 Taste Explosion

44-55

Nicole Heath – Fashion

Tim Barnes-Clay unveils the new BWM 8 Series available at Sycamore.

The latest home trends including industrial LUXE.

40-43

hue brand design digital – Graphic Design

Behind the scene with Kai Wan of Pkai and the latest products and tips to promote healthy skin as well as 2019 makeup trends.

Visit Bermuda’s pretty pink beaches and stunning colonial architecture. We highlight the hidden gem of Emelia Romagna in Italy, with beautiful scenery, food, wine and culture.

20-33

Zoe Phillips and Dee Kennedy - Business Development Managers

Josh Hyde, Gabriella Lester and Zen Ryan – Models @gravitas_mag @gravitas_magazine @gravitasmagazine

Millie & Co – Hair Amie Nixon (Bellamie) – Makeup Goody2shoes – Women’s outfits

Let’s get started The latest news and updates from the Greater Peterborough area.

Rutland Retreat Looking for an exclusive selfcatering holiday, perfect for all the family? Then look no further.

Swarovski to open at Queensgate Queensgate Shopping Centre is delighted to announce that premium jewellers Swarovski is coming to the centre.

These beautiful, architecturally designed, cedar clad, self-catering retreats are located just a short walk from Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, where staff provide concierge services 24/7, giving you the benefit of independence whilst enjoying the facilities of the hotel.

Ideal for families, and dogs are welcome too.

• Log-burner • French doors from living room onto patio

• Two and three bedroomed Retreats

• Bikes for hire

• Master Bedroom with ensuite bathroom

• Wonderfully located for the many activities in Rutland, Rutland Water Park and the historic towns of Oakham and Stamford.

• Living room/dining space with TV/DVD and WiFi throughout • Fully fitted kitchen

Founded in 1895, Swarovski is the world’s premier jewellery and accessory brand.

Specialising in sparkling crystals, the brand delivers extraordinary everyday style to women around the world.

rutlandretreats.co.uk

Every piece of Swarovski jewellery tells a story and embodies more than 120 years of master craftsmanship. Expert design, innovative crystal-cutting processes, premium materials and ultra-precision mean every Swarovski item is of the highest quality. queensgate-shopping.co.uk

High Flyers Leading regional venue gallops ahead with launch of prestigious new horse show.

The East of England Arena has announced that its major new National Horse Show, High Flyers, is ready for the off with the addition of its latest sponsor for the event, TopSpec. The new show is aiming to welcome thousands of visitors and equestrians to Peterborough for three days of showing, classes and competition, from the 15th - 17th of March 2019.

TopSpec director, Nicola Tyler, explained the decision to sponsor the show as main ring sponsors, saying, “We’re delighted to support the exciting new concept of High Flyers, which gives young horses a chance to familiarise themselves with showing at the highest level.”

Betsy Branyan, equestrian event director at East of England Arena, welcomed TopSpec’s involvement with High Flyers, saying, “We’re all thrilled to have TopSpec’s support as main ring sponsors, and we are looking forward to launching this exciting new event which has been very positively received by many of the top riders in the country.”

“High Flyers,” continued Branyan, “will showcase a range of competitive showing classes and brand new championships for young sports horses, as well as running a variety of classes for more established horses. Alongside our other major equestrian event, Equifest in August, High Flyers is keeping Peterborough on the equestrian map.”

15th - 17th of March 2019

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08 Entrées

Live life well

Day Spa Packages that will leave you feeling and looking fantastic!

Since 2005, Rushton based Homefield Grange has been offering residential health packages to its exclusive clientele. The company specialises in helping people lose weight, detox, or simply to relax and recharge from a stressful world. It is run by a team of full time naturopathic practitioners, wellness coaches, colon hydrotherapists, nutritionists, holistic therapists and fitness professionals.

From end of January onwards, Homefield will be offering new day spa packages to benefit a more local market. With spa day names like ‘Beat Belly Bulge’, or ‘Lose The Scales’ - each package contains specially chosen therapies designed to offer a great kick start to better

ways of looking, feeling and taking better care of your mind and body.

Homefield offers a more personalised feel than the larger conveyor belt style spas - you’ll feel cocooned the moment you step through the gates. A huge benefit of attending this boutique spa is that there are no distractions or temptations. Offering healthy vegan fare, or juice cleansing options, purified waters and organic herbal infusions - you’ll be feeling lighter, brighter, rested and recharged ready to face your world in just one day.

Ring to find out more ring 9am to 5pm daily, 01536 712219, or visit their web site, homefieldgrange.co.uk

Unapologetically British Jack Wills, the popular British fashion brand, opens at Springfields.

The new Jack Wills outlet is now open, offering huge savings on recommended retail prices. As a special opening treat, a further 30% discount off outlet prices will be given when you buy 3 or more items.

Established in 1999 as a single shop in the seaside town of Salcombe, Jack Wills is a British lifestyle brand.

Known for its highquality, heritageinspired wardrobe

classics, Jack Wills epitomises a carefree, youthful spirit – intrinsically charming, endlessly optimistic and unapologetically British.

Neil Beaman, Property Director, Jack Wills, said: “Springfields is the perfect location for a Jack Wills outlet and provides us with another opportunity to reach our customers. We’re really looking forward to welcoming new customers through our doors.’’

Simon Stone, Retail Director of Springfields Outlet, said: “Jack Wills is a fantastic addition to the fashion line-up at Springfields and will be the brand’s first outlet store in Lincolnshire. This follows a number of successful openings this year, including Joules, White Stuff, The Cosmetics Company Store and Springfields Adventure Land.” springfieldsoutlet.co.uk

09

Transforming the City Planning for future growth is key to recent and future developments of the city of Peterborough. With new jobs and housing aplenty, the boost to the city’s economy continues. Words by John Holdich It’s been a very busy winter so far, with several exciting events and developments taking place.

One highlight was the official opening of our new Sand Martin House offices at Fletton Quays, which saw a special ceremony attended by staff and local dignitaries. It was a proud moment for everyone and whenever I venture down there it’s fantastic to see the development delivering a modern skyline for our growing city.

Scheduled to finish in 2020, Fletton Quays will further boost the city’s economy, kickstart a new age of tourism and extend the city centre to the south, creating hundreds of new jobs and housing.

The award-winning £120million redevelopment, delivered by the Peterborough Investment Partnership will feature high quality apartments, a Hilton Garden Inn hotel, leisure and retail offerings, a whisky and gin distillery, restaurants, an arts hub and offices.

On the subject of impressive developments, the muchawaited plans to transform North Westgate were recently approved. The area will be completely re-vamped with office

With the city’s population expected to increase by 35,000 over the next 15 years, we need to build now and build right for the future.

accommodation, homes, cafes, restaurants, a hotel and public square.

North Westgate and Fletton Quays represent a new age for Peterborough. With the city’s population expected to increase by 35,000 over the next 15 years, we need to build now and build right for the future.

Back in October, thousands of runners and spectators flocked to the city for the Perkins Great Eastern Run. Despite wet and windy conditions, it was another successful event with over 4,500 runners taking part and not forgetting the hundreds of dedicated volunteers, a big well done to everyone involved.

Another recent event which drew in the crowds was the Christmas lights switch-on in Cathedral Square. It was great to see so many of people of all ages come along and enjoy themselves.

On the subject of which, I hope you have a fantastic Christmas and would like to wish you all a happy New Year.

John Holdich Peterborough Councillor

10 Entrées

#shopstamford It just goes to show that a little determination, inspiration and drive can achieve a lot very quickly…

Sarah Sewell, owner of Energy Clothing in Stamford for over 22 years, was concerned at the lack of footfall and shoppers all around the town of Stamford, and being a local business owner, was worried about how this would affect her sales at the busiest time of year.

Sarah said “I had no idea what needed to be done, I just knew that I had to do something to highlight and showcase what we have on our doorstep. The support was amazing and with the help of local media and our Facebook page, we have got a really important message out there and reminded a lot of people that buying local is what keeps the community thriving”.

Sarah liaised with other retailers to encourage them to get on board with a campaign to encourage people to shop locally and not to forget about the independent shops that can offer so much more than chains. The response was fantastic and before she knew it, there were well over 100 local, independent business owners right behind her!

She added “The response and support has been amazing. I just hope that this shows the council and the other powers that be, that with some passion and commitment, big things can happen. They have showed some support, however a lot more is needed going forward to ensure the landscape of the high street remains independent”.

Practically overnight, Sarah organised a photo shoot, had stickers for all shop windows printed as well as posters to distribute and display throughout the town.

Local creative agency hue – brand design digital, produced the logo and Fluid Signs made the large banner. With the added support of Elli Dean, JH Media, Commercial Signs and the Stamford Mercury and many other people – the campaign was launched and the exposure was huge.

Photo Credit: Elli Dean Photography

Stamford has always been a destination for tourists and attracts many visitors, however there are many people still not aware how many great individual shops and cafés there are and that Sunday offers free parking!

The Friday Market is the largest one locally and offers the most varied number of stalls offering local products and fresh produce.

Visit Stamford Retailers on Facebook to keep up to date with offers, news and events. #shopstamford

We have got a really important message out there and reminded a lot of people that buying local is what keeps the community thriving.

Don’t hide the pain Oakham resident goes the extra mile for charity in photo shoot to raise awareness of hidden illnesses and disabilities.

Tree Gillions from Trees Home Help is calling on all residents to support her in a fundraising effort to raise awareness of disabilities through a campaign called My Hidden Pain.

Tree will expose all in a photo shoot that she hopes will visualise the physical difficulties she faces every day due to her Cerebral Palsy while hopefully raising her £500 target for the disability charity Scope.

The disabled mother-of-two who also runs her own successful home support company is organising a photo shoot in collaboration with local businesses Rutland Creative and Colourful Soul.

Ahead of the fundraising event Tree said: “When I first decided to do this shoot, it was simply to show people what I live with every day. I don’t want sympathy, as in a way, I love my Cerebral Palsy, but instead I want to create a positive message, especially to young children that may feel ‘different’ or struggle to cope with any form of disability. I want them to know that being different is amazing and you can live your best life and achieve so much despite not necessarily conforming to the norm.”

Craig Wills, Scope’s Community Fundraising Manager, said: “We can’t thank Trees Home Help enough for their incredible support organising #MyHiddenPain in aid of Scope. It’s people like Tree that are helping us achieve disability equality, and we couldn’t achieve that without them.”

You can support Tree by visiting: justgiving.com/fundraising/myhiddenpain

11

Layer up!

At this time of year, layering is the key requirement to your essential wardrobe.

Faux fur and knit scarf - Goody 2 Shoes £19 (Sale Price) In our busy ‘rush around’ lives, we are constantly indoors and outdoors, in our cars, in heated shops and cosy pubs.

The temperature changes we endure throughout a normal winter’s day are extremely varied and so we need a wardrobe to stand up to the task. Our weather is all over the place - one minute cold and frosty and then mild - so we need adaptable clothes to cope with all this.

Cargo biker jacket – Allsaints £298 Animal column dress - Next £15 Grey sculpt jeans - Next £45

Cue layering. Cue separates.

Scarves and hats can add extra warmth and be easily discarded when you go indoors. They also add another dimension to your outfit and there is a huge range available depending on your style requirements.

Any outfit can be instantly transformed or updated with different accessories. Be bold with colour to brighten up a dull day. Underneath you can layer another lighter jacket or a blouse, so that when you go inside you are not overheating and still look stylish when you remove your top layer. Colour is key this season - no more black and grey - be bold with your colour choices to put a smile on your face.

Everyone loves a killer dress, but it’s the separates in your wardrobe that are the basics - the workhorses - by mixing and matching these you can create endless combinations and always look stylish and on trend.

Contact me if you need style advice or advice on putting together a capsule wardrobe that really works for you. I am a fashion designer with over 30 years experience and can help you dress for your work / lifestyle.

Nicole Heath A.C.F.I. info@shoesatgoody2shoes.co.uk

Location - Peterborough Arena | Hair – Millie & Co | Make-up - Amie Nixon, Bellamie

When the north wind blows we all need a cosy cover up - either a snuggly coat or a cosy jumper.

Depending on your lifestyle you can choose a cosy padded coat for country walks or shopping in town, some faux fur for a more relaxed evening look or a more classic smart style ideal for work and more formal occasions. All of these are massively on trend this winter.

Location - Peterborough Arena | Hair – Millie & Co | Make-up - Amie Nixon, Bellamie

12 Fashion

Henley wool coat - Jack Wills £199

Pom beanie - Accessorize £18

13

Faux suede teal jacket - Goody 2 Shoes £45 (Sale Price) Circles print blouse - Goody 2 Shoes £60

Location - Peterborough Arena | Hair – Millie & Co | Make-up - Amie Nixon, Bellamie

14 Fashion

15

Circles print blouse (see p.13) Faux suede jacket (see p.13) Faux fur pink jacket - Goody 2 Shoes £45 (Sale Price) Coated trousers in carbon - Goody 2 Shoes £45 (Sale Price)

Location - Peterborough Arena | Hair – Millie & Co | Make-up - Amie Nixon, Bellamie

16 Fashion

Jacob crew - Superdry £55

17

Coated trousers (see p.15) Ditsy print burgundy blouse with ruffle - Goody 2 Shoes £60 Padded red zip front jacket with faux fur front and hood - Goody 2 Shoes £59 (Sale Price)

Location - Peterborough Arena | Hair – Millie & Co | Make-up - Amie Nixon, Bellamie

Any outfit can be instantly transformed or updated with different accessories. Be bold with colour to brighten up a dull day.

18 Fashion

Premium Champ roll neck jumper Jack & Jones £35 Check overcoat - River Island £90

19

Her Twill belted coat - Wallis £75 Wide leg trouser - Miss Selfridge £35 Him Chenille crew - Next £30 Ultra flex jeans - Next £40

Location - Peterborough Arena | Hair – Millie & Co | Make-up - Amie Nixon, Bellamie

Tartan scarf - Next £26

20 Health & Beauty

Hair today, hobbies tomorrow‌ Heidi Semple interviews Pkair Hair salon owner Kai Wan.

21

KAI WAN. chain of salons around the Home Counties.

I was exposed to much more training and development down in London including mastering colour and styling at Wella and precision cutting at Sassoon.

Your involvement in London Fashion Week and Wella competitions is a large part of your background and experience, can you tell us why it is so important to you to push yourself in to this pressurised environment?

I have made many industry friends and connections. I became a guest artist for Wella which means I am ambassador and

You have been a respected hair stylist in Peterborough for over 15 years now – but tell us where and when it all started?

I started my hairdressing career in 1985

educator for the brand. I have done seminars across the UK and Europe teaching long hair, styling and cutting techniques and have worked on major shows at London Fashion week, Central Saint Martins college of Fashion and Agent Provocateur.

where I completed my apprenticeship

I am instrumental in the development of

through day release at Peterborough College.

Wella’s Trend Vision competition and have

The 80s and 90s were a fantastic time to be

also been a finalist in the prestigious British

in the fashion and beauty industry - people

Hairdressing Awards a few times.

were much more open to being individual and having a unique look where as today it’s generally about following a fashion or celebrity trend.

During my career I have always pushed myself and my skills to another level, this is important for me as I get a bit ‘twitchy’ if I am too comfortable. I need to be outside

After developing my skills in the local area, I

my comfort zone to feel I am progressing or

relocated to Bedford and got involved with a

developing something new.

22 Health & Beauty

I need to be outside my comfort zone to feel I am progressing or developing something new.

You are a very accomplished photographer, was this passion a side line that became a part of the hair styling business, or vice versa?

When I was 16 I had a big decision to make - go to art college to study photography or go into hairdressing. I was drawn to being a hair stylist but saved to purchase my first camera. Over the years, I taught myself all aspects of photography including processing film and developing prints in a dark room!

When I opened my first hair salon I really wanted to use my own images and I now shoot collections all around the country for other hair salons as well as our own and regularly have images in magazines and on covers.

You now have three successful salons in the area – what’s next for Pkai?

My wife Jenny and I own the business with amazing teams in all 3 salons who believe in our brand. Jen and I love working with and amongst our people, we constantly develop together to push our business forward.

You have a young family, a thriving business, you are constantly evolving your own creativity as well as your staffs, and yet you still find time to raise £1000’s for charity!

What is your secret to structuring and balancing all of your commitments?

I have a structured working week – Wednesdays are free to cover all manner of things like planning, training and meetings, Mondays are often used for external commitments like the work I do for Wella and the Fellowship for British Hairdressing. I take every other weekend off which is nothing other than family time. My family are the most important thing to me. I make sure I am home for tea and bedtime wherever possible with my kids and attend their functions as much as I can.

I love hobbies where I can relax and either switch off or take time to think, like cycling, golf and fishing. Raising money to help others has become increasingly important to me and I have entered numerous charity cycling events to help raise funds.

To showcase Kai Wan’s skills, he not only styled the cover model, he also photographed the cover image!

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Unit 5a Serpentine Green Hampton Peterborough PE7 8BE 01733 358835 The Arcade, Westgate, Peterborough PE1 1PY 01733 358825 10-12 Market Place, Market Deeping, PE6 8EA 01778 300558 Book online: pkai.co.uk

Cutting • Styling & Restyles • Colouring • Straightening • Perming • Bridal Packages • Extensions

24 Health & Beauty

Make up trends for spring 2019 Words by Makeup Artist Freya Pell

If you want to be on trend with your makeup looks for Spring 19, then pick out just one or two of my top recommendations from the catwalks:

Tom Ford Eye Colour Quad in Golden Mink - £68.00

MAC Dazzleshadow Liquid in Love Yourself - £16.50

was top of the runway for Spring 19. Gorgeous golden hues add sophisticated glamour to any day or night look during any season.

is a shiny liquid eyeshadow to give you a different take on your eye makeup than your standard powder shadow. If you’re more into pinks than gold’s, this will be the one for you for spring through to summer.

YSL Mascara Vinyl Couture in I’m the Madness - £26.00

Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment in Don’t Stop - £23.00

gives added sleek and shiny volume to lashes making them stand out and stand up!

is a vibrant pinky red to make a statement day or night.

• Modern ladies & gents hairdressing • Award winning L’Oréal salon • Hair Extensions • Beauty Therapy and Nails • Verticle Fast Tan Sunbed • Cosmetics Treatments: Botox, Dermal Fillers, Microneedling, Sculptra, PRP, Pigmentation problems by Dr Bence Hajdu, FCAI, MRCA • Kenzi Holistic

Millie & Co Hair and Beauty 58 Hargate Way, Hampton Hargate, Peterborough, PE7 8DS millieandcohairandbeauty@gmail.com Tel: 01733 344900

27

Body Beautiful

If you are looking for an experienced skin and body expert, look no further than Elysia Skin, Body and Laser specialists based near Oundle. Words by Heidi Semple.

Lisa Claypole, owner of Elysia Skin, Body, Laser, has worked with CACI for over 12 years. CACI have decades of industry expertise and are famous for the non-surgical face lift. It started as a medical treatment restoring loss of muscle tone after strokes and its crossed into the aesthetic market as a favourite anti-ageing treatment.

is at lifting and giving natural collagen stimulation. It’s also

Lisa explained “I always describe it to clients that it’s like going to the gym for your face. It has a loyal celebrity following too - Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Jennifer Aniston, to name just a few. Whether it’s just toning and lifting or the Caci ULTIMATE, which includes orbital microdermabrasion, ultrasonic peeling, wrinkle comb, light therapy, hydratone collagen mask, CACI eye treatment and lymphatic drainage - It really is the wonder workout for your face.”

popular for both men and women as its quick and easy, no

VENUS VIVA is another treatment available at Elysia Aesthetics and works to treat anti-ageing, lines and wrinkles, sun damaged skin, reduce pore size and acne scarring. With a large collection of before and after pictures in their portfolio, you can see how effective this treatment

texture and keeping the skin looking youthful, and again

fabulous for rosacea. There is a little downtime with this treatment – but 12 hours maximum and definitely worth it.

Wouldn’t it be amazing if you didn’t have to wax or shave again? With the technology of Laser hair removal improving in leaps and bounds over the years, it is now even more effective and works on most areas of the body. It is really messy, sticky wax, no ingrowing hairs, no downtime. What are you waiting for?

The LIPOFIRM PRO and EXILIS ELITE provide fabulous results for Inch loss, fat reduction and skin tightening.

With the added benefit of ULTRASOUND on the EXILIS, it gives a very focused treatment with deeper penetration depth. Radio frequency heats deeper into the skin tissue to stimulate collagen production. It’s perfect to improve skin there is no downtime with this treatment.

For more information and advice call Lisa on 07879 620196 or visit elysiahealthandbeauty.com

28 Health & Beauty

New Year, New You Coach and mentor Garry Crosby provides us with 3 simple business mind hacks for a boost in 2019.

What’s the most powerful force in your life? It’s the voice inside your head. With a positive voice, you’ll fly, so don’t let a negative voice hold you back. In 2019, give yourself a boost with 3 simple business mind hacks.

1. Business Owner Mindset. Are you selfemployed, or do you own a business? The self-employed mindset is about getting the job done. A business owner thinks about building a commercial, profitable enterprise that provides income whether they are there or not. So, start 2019 by thinking like an owner.

2. Create Raving Fans. Don’t be happy with customers; create raving fans. Raving fans buy from you because they appreciate quality, service and value. Raving fans tell their friends and family about you. Raving fans refer other businesses to you. Work as hard as you can to create raving fans, because they will build your business faster than anything else.

3. ‘Invest’ in Marketing. Do you view marketing as an ‘expense’? Perhaps you’ve spent lots of money on marketing, but the results are inconsistent? In 2019, it’s time to think differently. The key?

Test and measure everything you do. Find out what works and what doesn’t. If you know that a £200 campaign generates £500 worth of business, you’d invest everything you could in that campaign, wouldn’t you?

So, in 2019, elevate your thinking. If you’re busy doing, doing, doing, pause for a few hours a week to let your positive inner voice talk to you like a business owner. Listen to and act upon those big ideas and 2019 will be your best year yet.

With a positive voice, you’ll fly, so don’t let a negative voice hold you back.

Garry Crosby, ActionCOACH actioncoach.co.uk/garrycrosby garrycrosby@actioncoach.com 07704 075453

Declutter your home and mind Concetta Laquintana tells us why home coaching can improve our wellbeing.

Some verbal reactions around professional decluttering are: “My house is a tip, I’d love someone to sort things I’ve been putting off for years!”

“How can a stranger do a better job?”

“I can’t afford it, I’ll find the time myself” “I feel uncomfortable to show my mess!”

Unfortunately, clutter will not disappear easily. On the contrary, it will build up more and more because we lead busy lives, tend to buy more than we need, and often face difficult situations such as separation, illness

Clutter fills our minds with excessive stimuli, causing our senses to work overtime on unnecessary things making us less productive, less creative and more stressed.

When there is mess around us, our brain receives subconscious signals that our work isn’t done, making it difficult for us to relax and to feel gratified.

Professional declutterers are trained to speed up the decluttering process, provide effective organisation of home and work space and take the client through a step-bystep process that you can use time and time again to keep clutter free.

which will not go away unless we realise it’s

Concetta Laquintana enquiries@conchithehomecoach.co.uk conchithehomecoach.co.uk

affecting our well-being.

07922454487

or depression. Clutter is a modern ‘Illness’

29

Positive vibes Lizzie Benton of Liberty Mind tells us why we should relinquish negativity in our lives.

My best advice for anyone in 2019 is to drop the negativity vampires. You know the type, people that love to suck the positivity out of you. Whether they’re friends, colleagues or partners, it’s time to surround yourself with people that make you feel all warm and fuzzy. Negative and toxic people will only slow you down.

Admittedly this can sometimes be hard, we often hope that others hold the same values as us and therefore feel extremely hurt when it appears not to be true. But rather than hope for change we have to be realistic with ourselves, some people simply don’t change and don’t want too. Therefore, you should respect yourself enough to let others go and know that you will find good people. As the old saying goes, when one door closes another door opens, and this is true even for relationships.

Curate good people in your life like fine wines and you will soon see such a difference in your life and in your happiness. Don’t waste your precious time on this earth waiting for change, take it for yourself.

Lizzie Benton, Liberty Mind lizzie@libertymind.co.uk libertymind.co.uk 0333 3580083

Confidence is the key to success Master NLP & Executive, Beverley Spencer, shares her views on why ‘average’ can be more than enough.

In business and personal development, much of the dialogue centres around competence. We spend our school years achieving accolades, only to realise that the people who attain great success are not necessarily the most skilled. They are simply the most confident.

It is the reason why Harper, with the average grades, attains success, while her high school mates huddle in a quandary at the 20-year class reunion. They ponder, “How could one so seemingly average achieve such astounding success?”

Harper is highly motivated and asserts herself. She owns her abilities, shortfalls, finds strategies, fills gaps, builds strong

teams around her and gets hold of experts to hone her effectiveness and increase her resources. She is not afraid to grow.

When we are confident, we show up fully to meet the world - be it in an executive boardroom, entrepreneurship, 9-5 job, or changing careers. When we show up fully, we are present, engaged, ready and equipped to take on challenges while pursuing our goals. Confident people are merely ordinary people who consciously choose to make extraordinary decisions in order to lead extraordinary lives.

Beverley Spencer Master NLP & Executive Coach Confidence Connoisseur Ltd ConfidenceConnoisseur.com

When we show up fully, we are present, engaged, ready and equipped to take on challenges while pursuing our goals.

Discover a pain free future...

Say goodbye to hip and knee replacements by investing

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What’s more, it can treat various aliments, including:

There is a revolutionary technology that’s taking the world by storm enabling you to invest in your future health without the need for surgery or medication – MBST.

• Disc and back problems • Onset of osteoarthritis • Sports injuries

MBST therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment that can clear

• Cartilage damage

up your injury or pain once and for all and is available via

• Bone conditions and fractures

physiotherapists across the UK.

• Ligaments, tendons and muscle damage

Want to see how this innovation therapy can help you?

Contact your local physiotherapy centre, Cell Regeneration, in Tinwell, Stamford on 01780 238084 and speak to our qualified staff.

See what our clients have to say: facebook.com/mbstUK/

Start your treatment today!

Call us on 01780 238084 | email us: info@mbst-therapy.co.uk | Find out more, visit: www.mbst-therapy.co.uk

31

Mind & Body Change your mind about winter hibernation and open your eyes this New Year.

The warmth and safety of home will not lead you any closer to the dream you have in your heart and mind.

Look to the trees; they may be stripped of their leaves, but they are not dead. They stand quietly restoring their energy, healing and preparing for regrowth in the spring.

Use the coming months to be honest with your vision; where do you want to be in twelve months time? What do you need to learn or change in order for your vision to be achievable and become your new reality?

Take a look through your own eyes. What you see in other’s reality might not be right for you. So what do you see for yourself?

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Make your vision reality

This investment in your vision will set your intentions for the year ahead.

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Reach out and connect with people you know, and make new connections with likeminded people. They will see your vision and help keep you on track, with support and encouragement.

Commit your vision by putting pen to paper.

Develop the detail of what you see, feel and hear. Listen as your vision comes alive as you read it back to yourself.

This investment in your vision will set your intentions for the year ahead, like a new map. “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” [Proust].

Cell regeneration using physics medically Molecular Bio-physical Stimulation Therapy (MBST) transfers energy in a targeted manner. Scientific data indicates that MBST has both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, whilst impacting on the structure of selected cartilage, bone, ligaments, tendons and muscles.

What’s more, in many cases MBST has prevented the need for an operation and takes away the need for pain relief medications. It is a safe, non-invasive therapy working alongside physiotherapy that has the ability to clear up your injury or pain once and for all.

Here is a list of the various ailments MBST has been successfully used for in over 1000 patients in Rutland:

Instead of being a new you, open your eyes and see with new vision.

• Disc and back problems

belifehappy | 07508 246266 hello@emmalannigan.com

• Sports injuries

• Osteoarthritis • Cartilage damage • Osteoporosis • Speed up the healing of fractures • Ligaments, tendons and muscle damage (please contact for details on MBST Veterinary) 01780 238084 mbst-therapy.co.uk Find us on Facebook: MBSTUK Casterton Lane, Tinwell PE9 3UQ

Natural Remedy

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the 80 plus

CBD OIL has risen in popularity in the last year with its increased availability across the UK. But what is it, what are the benefits and how do you find a high-quality product?

Samantha Day, Co-Director of Hapi Hemp, a new local CBD business, offers some advice.

the plant and mixed with other plant oils.

Studies conducted so far have suggested CBD can aid a number of health conditions, with last years World Health Organisation report revealing it may successfully help to treat many symptoms.

active cannabinoids naturally found in the hemp plant. The oil is extracted from Although CBD is a food supplement, not a medicine, some studies claim that it can

Is CBD legal?

CBD is completely legal, but make sure you buy a brand where lab reports are visible and they are members of the Cannabis Trades Association UK. Hapi Hemp adhere to both.

have the following properties: analgesic,

The official UK guidelines state that no

antioxidant, anti-bacterial, sedative, anti-

more than 0.2% of THC can be contained

depressant, antipsychotic, anxiolytic and

per bottle, and most reputable brands will

anti-convulsive.

comply with this.

There’s a fast-growing CBD product range

hapihemp.co.uk | info@hapihemp.co.uk

and the simplest way to get your CBD is to

Join our Hapi Hemp group on Facebook &

put a few drops of oil under your tongue.

follow us on Instagram.

32 Health & Beauty

New Year, New You! According to Forbes.com, only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s Resolutions. That number is not good enough for me, it should be higher! I want you to be one of the success stories.

Alex Russo is a Sports Science Graduate and Certified Personal Trainer who has written for Men’s Health and FHM. He works with people to optimise their health, get a better body and look and feel great.

Download a free copy of his eBook Better Body Begins: linktr.ee/alexrussolive

Choose your goal Pick up a pen and paper right now and write down your health goal. For many at this time of year it will be weightrelated such as dropping a dress size or getting a flatter stomach. Ok, that’s fine, but let’s break it down and get specific. What dress size would you like to be? What belt size are you currently? And what’s the target? Write down the end goal.

If what you’ve just written seems daunting and unachievable then let’s set a smaller goal that we can hit this week. It might just be changing one simple habit that gets the ball rolling such as: • Substitute a packet of crisps for a piece of fruit each day • Replace one latte with a green tea in the next 3 days • Get to sleep 30 minutes earlier 3 times this week • Prep a healthy lunch twice this week • Hit your 10,000 steps each working day this week

Next...Know your why Your goal has to mean something, it has to strike a chord with you. Find the real reason why you’re doing this. To fit in some new jeans may not make you want it enough. It needs to be meaningful, even emotional. Why do you want to fit in those new jeans? To raise your self esteem and improve how you see yourself? To enhance your health so that you can enjoy quality time with your family?

Above: Bird dogs – strengthen your lower back with these.

These are the real reasons that are going to help you stay focussed.

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Glute bridges – reduce your risk of injury, and balance out your core with these to complement ab exercises.

This is important. Go to myfitnesspal.com now and add in your stats, it will tell you how many calories you need each day to achieve your goal. Calorie deficit (burning more calories than you take in) is usually key when it comes to leaning up, it’s nothing to do with magic or a newly discovered ingredient - they’re just strategies for helping you eat less.

Low carb diets, skinny teas and shake programmes all work on the premise of calorie deficit. I’m not against these programmes, in fact they can be useful. They offer a convenient, simple strategy to reduce your calorie intake and can be a healthier option to replace the habit of a high sugar coffee and muffin. However, many people put the weight back on afterwards because they revert to their poor eating habits once again, so any eating plan you adopt should be sustainable long term. A diet of healthy whole foods and hitting the gym three times per week will also fail if you revert to old habits.

With this in mind, you have to choose the strategy that will steer you towards success. It might be one of these or a combination!

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Know your calorie goal

Your goal has to mean something, it has to strike a chord with you. Find the real reason why you’re doing this.

Aren’t all calories created equal?

No. Snacking on some fruit or raw veg is nutritionally superior to biscuits or crisps and will have marked differences on their effects on the body over time. Biscuits, crisps and confectionery should be a rare treat and not the norm.

Should I do sit-ups to get a six-pack?

Whilst core strength is important for stability, balance and injury prevention, the body cannot spot reduce fat by doing lots of ab work. If you are doing tummy crunches, try adding in some lower back exercises too like bird dogs and glute bridges. Consistency, eating healthy foods within your calorie goal, getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep and doing enjoyable exercise 3-5 times per week are the best ways to ensure your success long term.

34 Escape

Book your trip!

For more details contact More Travel on 01780 433333 or visit more-travel.co.uk

Emilia Romagna Words by Helen Dooley – More Travel

Not one found in many holiday brochures, Emilia Romagna portrays the best of Italy good food, spectacular scenery and fascinating culture and history, without vast crowds of tourists!

The cuisine and wine of the region are remarkable. This is the homeland of one of the greats of Italian Gastronomy, Pellegrino Artusi, who has inspired generations of chefs. Homemade pasta and piadina – a delicious flatbread with all kind of tempting fillings complimented perfectly by fine local wines.

Romagna has much in common with its famous neighbour, Tuscany. The same rolling countryside but its beaches face the Adriatic rather than the Mediterranean. It has historic cities, traditional villages and relaxing thermal spas.

We’re particularly delighted to recommend family owned Al Vecchio Convento, an attractive 19th century palazzo with just 15 rooms. Father and son are both chefs in the exceptional restaurant. The varied dishes use simple, local ingredients including truffles, mushrooms and game.

The hotel retains many of its original features, complimented by elegant antique furnishings.

There is a wonderful programme of activities on offer - Italian lessons, cookery lessons, wine and food pairing, truffle hunting and art classes.

There are bicycles available to use to explore the traditional town, and a short hike will take you to the Acquacheta Waterfall.

We think you’ll like Emilia Romagna!

Helen Dooley more-travel.co.uk

15a St Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2DF

www.more–travel.co.uk

01780 433333 info@more–travel.co.uk

36 Escape

Bermuda Fabulously famous for its mystical triangle, perfectly pretty pink sand beaches, celebrity residents and brightly coloured colonial buildings. But how many of us could pinpoint Bermuda on a map?

Words by Helen Dooley – More Travel

37

Book your trip!

For more details contact More Travel on 01780 433333 or visit more-travel.co.uk

The vibe is leisurely luxury, with a formal twist.

This tiny little island with such a big personality is a solitary colonial outpost in the midAtlantic. At a similar latitude to the Canary Islands, Bermuda enjoys a temperate climate all year round, with a beautiful summer from May to October.

Grand pastel coloured houses dot the tiny offshore islands and wealthy residents enjoy a smart lifestyle.

The vibe is leisurely luxury, with a formal twist. The formal is a nod to the British heritage with smart colonial buildings, polite society and the traditional outfitting of Bermuda shorts, long socks and shoes! The leisurely comes in long relaxed lunches, rum swizzles, mopeds and the outdoor lifestyle.

Of late the island has started to let its hair down a little with a whole new art, jazz and movie scene.

There are a few surprises in Bermuda’s attractions! *March to April the waters off Bermuda are home to over 10,000 humpback whales on their northern migratory routes to Canada and Greenland. *Divers can take the 100 challenge and attempt to tick off 100 of the 300 ships sunken off the coast of Bermuda having fallen foul of the deceptive reefs that surround the island! Ships date back as far as the 1600’s – not great for the sailors, but fabulous for divers! *For an island of just 21 square miles of land mass, it quite a surprise to

find that the island has 9, yes 9, golf courses – pretty impressive! The course quality is excellent, although hard not to be distracted by the beautiful bluebirds that live on the island and some spectacular ocean views.

With a flight time of just 7 ½ hours and a daily direct British Airways service from London, Bermuda is ideal for a short spring or autumn break if you’re looking to escape the crowds in the Canaries and do something different to Dubai or the Caribbean.

Stay at the one of the classic Fairmont hotels, or go for the newer Rosewood Tuckers Point which has the islands only hotel guest only golf course.

Helen Dooley more-travel.co.uk

RE T REATS 5 Manor Farm Barn • Brancaster • Sleeps 8

L aLaid-back i d - b a c k lluxury u x u r y holiday h o l i d a ycottages retreats AT BAREFOOT RETREATS we are passionate

Sandpiper Cottage • Snettisham • Sleeps 5

about marketing luxury holiday properties that are individual and unique. From cottage hideaways, beautiful boltholes, coastal gems to rural retreats, their unique features will define our portfolio.

With an ever expanding portfolio of over 100 properties we’re confident our passionate and dedicated reservations team will match you with your idyllic retreat.

AS OUR GUESTS you will have the keys to some of the

most beautiful and individual private homes in Norfolk, providing a distinct laid-back luxury holiday experience ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive, until you leave. With an indepth knowledge of our hand-picked portfolio, we will ensure we match you with the right property. You’ll have access to our exclusive concierge service, ideal if you’re organising a special celebration or want to experience something different on your holiday. And once you’ve booked your holiday, you’ll receive a Barefoot guide ensuring you have all the information you could need to enjoy your precious time away.

AS A HOME OWNER we will maximise the earning potential of your home by managing all the marketing, PR and guest liaison for you. Unlike other agencies, we are more than a booking agent and as a team we will take all of the hassle away from letting out your holiday home by providing a fully managed service. Sharing your holiday home should be as easy and enjoyable as the holidays our guests will enjoy there and we will make it our job to look after your home as if it were our own. We can also assist in finding and creating your unique holiday home and we offer an interior design styling and staging service to increase the appeal of your property. If required, we can source furnishings to create the perfect place for you and your guests to enjoy.

GE T AH E AD O F TH E GAME AN D B O O K YO U R 2019 B RE AK TO DAY!

Hollybrook House • Aylmerton • Sleeps 8

S U FFE RI N G FRO M TH E CH RI S TMAS B LU E S , B O O K YO U R PE RFE CT FAMI LY RE TRE AT FO R FE B RUARY H ALF TE RM

Cherry Hill, North Creake • Sleeps 5

WHY BAREFOOT? Surprisingly our commission fee

is the same or less than our local and national competitors. We cover the cost of professional photography for home owners and provide a welcome hamper for all our guests and all our houses have Barefoot branded bathrobes, slippers and beautiful linens.

If you’re looking for a wonderful holiday experience or are considering marketing your home and are seeking a fresh and innovative approach, please visit our website or pop into our office and join us for a cup of coffee or glass of fizz.

We’d love to meet you!

TAKE ADVAN TAGE O F O U R E XCLU S I VE CO N CI E RGE S E RVI CE

Barefoot Retreats, Church House, Overy Road, Burnham Market, Norfolk PE31 8HH 01485 512245 • enquiries@barefootretreats.co.uk • www.barefootretreats.co.uk

River Nene Cottages

3 Award winning self-catering holiday cottages and riverside garden event space.

15 mins from Stamford, Oundle & Peterborough Outdoor Swimming Pool / Wedding Venue / Event Space 1 Mill Lane, Water Newton PE8 6LY | 01733 230628 or 07778 625 166 www.rivernenecottages.co.uk | info@rivernenecottages.co.uk

41

New BMW 8 Series 2019 review The BMW 8 Series is the German automaker’s hottest all-rounder.

Words by Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring journalist – tweeting @carwriteups

Continued →

42 Driven

It takes the shape of a four-wheel-drive four-seater and has a massive kerbside presence.

The car looks muscular and assertive in all the right areas, with 20-inch alloys and wide shoulders. But inside is where the new BMW 8 Series really shines.

The fit and finish looks and feels luxurious, and you sit low to the ground with the centre console and the iDrive infotainment system towering beside you.

What’s more, the clearly-defined instruments are presented on a 12.3-inch screen.

Once on the road, it doesn’t take long to appreciate that the BMW 8 Series effortlessly deals with the ‘comfortable’ side of things. The cabin is muted, and the ride is velvety smooth unless a pothole gets in the way. Even then, the car tries its best to cushion the many blows you get from our scarred British road surfaces.

All variants get an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

This smooth-shifting transmission is coupled to either a petrol or diesel powerplant from launch.

Sooner or later a fiery M8 will join the line-up – probably using the same unit as housed in the M5 – but for now, the series starts off with the 840d: a 3.0-litre dishing out 320ps.

The BMW M850i xDrive I was handed the keys to contains a mammoth 530ps 4.4-litre V8. It feels every bit as rapid as the 3.7-second zero to 62mph dash indicates, launching the vehicle onward ferociously. It is complemented by a satisfying growl, with appropriate crackles from the tailpipes when in Sport setting.

Press on, and the M850i stays unruffled. There is no body roll, there’s ladles of traction, and the four-wheel-drive arrangement puts down the clout straightforwardly.

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“The car looks muscular and assertive in all the right areas”

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As remarkable as the car is, it’s sometimes tricky for it to entirely mask the substantial bulk that’s being carried around. So, the BMW 8 Series isn’t quite as athletic as its sportiest competitors. No matter though, the excellent four-wheel-steering technology does a good job at veiling the mass when you’re cruising.

On the practical side of things, the 8 Series’ boot is considerable, and, as alluded to earlier, the rest of the cabin is good for four adults.

Ultimately, the BMW 8 Series is a car that manages to seize a hitherto unoccupied niche between being a sports coupe and a GT. The German machine is fast, comfy and utterly refined. Indeed, in M850i guise, you get gratifying handling blended with suitable practicality. What more could you ask for?

Pros ‘n’ Cons • Comfortable √ • Fast √ • Ride √ • Boot size √ • Weighty X

Fast Facts (New BMW M850i xDrive, – as tested by Tim Barnes-Clay) • Max speed: 155 mph • 0-62 mph: 3.7 seconds • Combined mpg: 28.8 • Engine layout: 4395cc 8-cylinder petrol turbo • Max. power (PS): 530 • CO2: 224 g/km • Price: £99,525 The 8 Series is on sale now.

Book your test drive today! sales@sycamorebmw.co.uk sycamorebmw.co.uk Papyrus Road, Werrington Peterborough PE4 5HW 01733 707070

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Barnack

Whether you prefer traditional or contemporary... we’ll create a unique inspirational space for you.

Stamford

01780 756666 enquiries@qks-ltd.co.uk qks-ltd.co.uk

45 Clava Dine pendant £129 lumisonlighting.com

Industrial LUXE Inspired by the late 20th Century conversion of textile and wholesale warehouses in New York’s Lower West Side, industrial-chic has dominated global interior design trends... Words by Jenny Garford

Continued →

46 Homestyle Bronze frame windows and internal screen £POA bronzecasements.com

Capture the simplicity of industrial interiors with understated yet elegant and beautifully crafted furniture.

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Characteristically masculine in style, industrial-chic interiors have their roots firmly set in functionality and practicality think exposed steel, pipe and brickwork alongside distressed woods, factory-style light fittings and a generous display of concrete.

of industrial-age modernity to period

Recreate the look in your own home with a monochromatic palette, clean lines and hard-wearing materials. Metal framed windows and internal screens create an instant loft-living vibe, allowing for plenty of light to flood smaller, modern homes, or add a touch

and master craftsmanship; Modish

properties.

Capture the simplicity of industrial interiors with understated yet elegant and beautifully crafted furniture; Andrew Martin’s brutalist inspired ‘Clement’ concrete topped dining table is the perfect marriage of clean lines Living’s ‘Blackbone’ drinks cabinet, made from reclaimed oak, will add a touch of glamour to any interior, proving that sustainability can indeed be sexy.

The ‘Bentley’ of all rugs - Winter lake hand carded handspun wool and hand carded hand spun silk - £16,000 therugstudio.co.uk

47

Concrete camera planter £42 smithersofstamford.com

Blackbone Industrial Drinks Cabinet £1,635 modishliving.co.uk

Lumison Lighting have a great range of industrial inspired light fittings, and we love the brushed brass finish of their Clava Dine pendants. Hang them at a low level over the dining table and add metal framed faux leather chairs to recreate the trendy chef’s table vibe.

If you find the industrial style too cold, warm the palette with a splash of colour with these gorgeous Jean Paul Gaultier cushions and mid-century modern Rex Ray rug. Accessories should be kept to a minimum, but this fun concrete camera planter from Smithers of Stamford adds a playful element to what is otherwise serious style.

Left: Jean Paul Gaultier Bombers Laque cushion £118 tm-interiors.co.uk Below: Andrew Martin Clement Dining Table £2,595 tm-interiors.co.uk

Metal and faux Leather dining chair £89 cultfurniture.com

Mowing to Robotic Perfection

Please contact us to arrange a site visit for a Mower & Installation quotation Kates Bridge, Thurlby, Bourne PE10 0EN 01778 560466 | fentonsofbourne.co.uk

Est. 2000

• • Sales

Cleaning

Restoration

Bespoke

FROM

WEDNESDAY 2ND JANUARY 2019

The Rug Studio : 2 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PZ The Rug Studio - : 21 Acton Trading Estate, The Vale, Acton, W3 7QE - Tel 0208 261 7434 NEW The Rug Studio - Holt Antiques & Interiors Centre, Thornage Road, Holt, NR2 6SU Tel: 01572 829927 Email: info@therugstudio.co.uk www.therugstudio.co.uk Opening Hrs : :- Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, :- Mon-Fri by Appt. :- Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am -4pm

*

entertain in style

Kitchens from month £99 per 8.9% APR **

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Beautiful kitchens, beautifully priced Our expert designers combine clever design with beautiful, quality materials and colours to create a unique Hammonds kitchen that looks £30k for less than half that price. *Representative example. £99 a month based on cash price £6000. 20% deposit of £1200. Amount of loan £4800. 60 monthly repayments of £98.61. Total amount payable £7116.60. Typical APR 8.9%.Finance is available on a minimum loan value from £1000 and order value from £2500. Credit is subject to application and status. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Hitachi Capital House (Thorpe Road, Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey TW18 3HP) act as a credit broker and not the lender. Credit is provided by Hitachi Personal Finance, a division of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Pop in and see our brand new kitchen and bedroom showroom at Peterborough One Retail Park, PE1 4YZ TO REQUEST A FREE BROCHURE OR DESIGN VISIT CALL US ON

01733 221681

COMPLETE BUILDING SERVICES

www.revampservices.co.uk info@revampservices.co.uk 07931 951372 • 01733 571350

52 Homestyle

Mellow moods

It’s time to draw the curtains, light some scented candles and chill... Words by Jenny Garford With the festivities of Christmas and New Year behind us, the short days of winter can leave us feeling a little lacklustre, but that makes this the perfect time of year to treat ourselves to a touch of tender loving (self)care, embracing the cosiness of being indoors, switching off from the world and enjoying a mellow moment.

Wood and Floral Fusion £29 made.com

Wild Fig & Grape £45 heating-and-plumbing.com

Portobello Oud £35 truegrace.co.uk

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Patchouli, Cedar & Thyme £25 saramiller.london

Pomegranate Blood Orange £35 hurnandhurn.com

The Library £45 chaseandwonder.com

The Enchanted Forest £45 chaseandwonder.com

Noble Red £28 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Neroli Lakes £20 sophieallport.com

Established 1991

• Appliances • Sinks • Taps • Work Surfaces • FREE Planning and Design Service

62 Werrington Business Centre, Papyrus Road, Peterborough PE4 5BH

01733 894422 | sales@pdakitchens.co.uk

www.pdakitchens.co.uk

Made to measure glass splash backs for your kitchen, shower room and bathroom Choose from a vast selection of colours to compliment or contrast Glass and mirrors cut to size

Replacement double glazed units

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01733 344 177 glass@rabaker.co.uk | www.rabaker.co.uk Edgerley Business Park, Challenger Way, Peterborough, PE1 5YG

56 Taste Explosion

No dialling required!

The Chinese Takeaway Cookbook - with everything from chop suey to sweet ‘n’ sour, re-create your favourites with Kwoklyn Wan. The Chinese Takeaway Cookbook is

chow mein dish you’ve ever eaten,

the holy grail of Chinese takeaway

all cooked by your own fair hands.

(and restaurant) trade-secret recipes. A recent poll of Brits found that Chinese food is far and away the top takeaway of choice. Everyone has a favourite dish and this book will help you re-create those dishes at home, with step-by-step simplicity.

In The Chinese Takeaway Cookbook, Kwoklyn reveals the culinary secrets he’s learned over a lifetime working in Chinese restaurants, including tips on Chinese food etiquette, cooking techniques and wok craft. With over 70 recipes, this book is the ultimate

Master classic dishes, from starters

guide to re-creating your favourite

of Mini Spring Rolls, Crispy Aromatic

Chinese takeaway and Cantonese

Duck and Sesame Seed Prawn Toast,

restaurant dishes at home.

perfect for sharing, to delectable

About the Author

mains including spicy marinated Char Siu Pork, Chicken Chow Mein and rich Chinese Mushrooms with Oyster Sauce, as well as the foolproof Egg Fried Rice, sweet and soft SteamedBao Buns and the fluffiest Chiffon Pandan

Kwoklyn Wan literally grew up in the kitchens of Chinese takeaways and restaurants; his playground was the kitchen store room with brother Gok, and as he got older, the beginning

Cake.

of his career as a chef, helping out

Kwoklyn’s definitive Chinese recipes

or chopping vegetables. Kwoklyn is

cook in minutes, and with his expert tips and advice, you’ll be tossing your wok like a pro. In the time it takes to dial the number and order your favourite Chinese takeaway, you could

with the washing up, peeling prawns now a professional chef, restaurateur and regularly appears on radio and television as an expert on Chinese cuisine.

be sitting at the table savouring rich

The Chinese Takeaway Cookbook by

aromatic soups, munching on crispy

Kwoklyn Wan - available in hardback and

fried delights and enjoying the tastiest

as an Ebook from 24th January 2019.

In the time it takes to dial the number and order your favourite Chinese takeaway, you could be sitting at the table enjoying the tastiest chow mein, cooked by your own fair hands.

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Pick any 3 small dishes from our selected menu for just ÂŁ10. Experience flavours from around the world cooked with fresh local ingredients. Share with loved ones or just treat yourself.

Available Monday - Thursday 12noon-2.30pm & Friday 12noon-6pm

Paten & Co, 7 All Saints' Place, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2AG t. 01780 408647 | paten@kneadpubs.co.uk | kneadpubs.co.uk

58 Taste Explosion

Winter warmers Looking to cozy up in a welcoming traditional pub and tuck into hearty, seasonal food?

Here are some of our faves for winter warmers... Words by Jenny Garford

The Tobie Norris

The Bell Inn

With its quirky charm and cosy ambience, The Tobie is one of Stamford’s most popular pubs.

Sit back and soak up the beautiful surroundings in one of Peterborough’s most notable historical buildings and hotels.

Warmed throughout by roaring open fires, it’s the perfect hideaway on a cold winter day, with cosy nooks and corners to tuck yourself away in. The Tobie offers a crowd-pleasing menu with fresh pizzas being a popular choice with patrons.

However it’s the seasonal additions we love like the slowcooked pheasant, venison and rabbit casserole served with herby dumplings, creamy mash and seasonal veg, or braised beef brisket with horseradish mash and parsnip crisps. Classic moules mariniere are also on the menu, but at The Tobie they are served with twice cooked chips and sourdough bread - just imagine sitting by a roaring fire, mopping up seafood liquor with a nice glass of wine on the side?

The Tobie Norris, 12 St Paul’s St, Stamford PE9 2BE 01780 753800 | knead pubs.co.uk

Built in the early 17th Century, this fine coaching inn once served thousands of weary travellers as they made their way down the Great North Road. Steeped in history, and bestowed with unrivalled character and charm, The Bell now offers an award-winning dining experience, with seasonal menus to delight. Tuck into hearty, warming fare such as the slow-cooked British beef brisket served with creamy mash, cavolo nero, pancetta, celeriac and a red wine and maple jus, or the roasted fillet of cod, served with a chorizo and chickpea cassoulet and linguine. If you’ve room, indulge in a warm savarin, with clotted cream, apple and sultana compote, and cinnamon twist- delicious!

The Bell Inn, Great North Road, Stilton, Peterborough, PE7 3RA 01733 241066 | thebellstilton.co.uk

59

The King’s Arms Inn One of my favourite restaurants, The Kings Arms is all about seasonal and local produce with true provenance, with emphasis on the nose to tail philosophy, meaning no part of an animal that comes into the restaurant will go to waste.

The kitchen team make everything on the menu from scratch, as well as smoking local game and fish. The current menu features a number of local game dishes, including roe deer

The Fox & Hounds With its pleasing views over the village green, The Fox & Hounds is one of the area’s most spectacular country pubs.

A handsome, Georgian facade clad in ivy gives little of the eclectic traditional-village-pub-meets-gothic-revival interior.

Gastro sandwiches and pub classics are available at lunchtime, think grown-up comfort food, like tempura soft shell crab club sandwich, house burgers with fermented mushroom ketchup, and fish and chips with crayfish popcorn.

The a la carte menu features a rather tempting scallop starter with buttermilk and rum creamed sweetcorn, pulled pork and salted popcorn; and main of mustard and hazelnut crumbed Launde lamb with hash brown, pea puree, minted greens and goat curd.

The Fox & Hounds, 19 The Green, Exton, LE15 8AP 01572 812403 | afoxinexton.co.uk

leg steak, served with black trumpet mushroom sauce, and a thyme rosti, and whole, stuffed Glaston partridge, served with a sweet marsala sauce, parmentiere potatoes and seasonal greens. Finish with comforting sticky toffee pudding made with Rutland Ale, served with butterscotch sauce and Grainstore Ale ice Cream, need we say more?

The King’s Arms Inn, 13 Top Street, Wing, Rutland, LE15 8SE 01572 737634 | thekingsarms-wing.co.uk

60 Taste Explosion

The Paper Mills I can think of few pubs I’d rather step into on a cold, winters day than The Paper Mills in Wansford; thoroughly charming, with a roaring fire and friendly welcome, this is the kind of pub you could enjoy an afternoon in - relaxed, cosy and inviting with the added plus of a great food menu.

Two large bay windows flood the bar area with light, while low ceilings and original beams give the room the cosiness you’d expect from a building of such age. An open fire and log burner sit either side of the room warming the faces of those sat in cosy armchairs around them, while they sip on local ales, or indulge in a good cup of coffee.

With the aim of making The Paper Mills a go-to destination, rather than being a stop-off for those travelling the nearby A1, Head Chef, Marcel, has created a menu that is crowd-pleasing yet refined, with the kind of comfort dishes that diners expect from pub dining. Scotch eggs with piccalilli, posh prawn cocktails and a ploughman’s board laden with ham hock terrine, country house pate and pork pie make for excellent starters, while homemade chicken pie, rib eye steak served with chunky chips, and Chef’s home-made curry are all winning mains.

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The dish that had me grinning from ear to ear, however, was the mountain of mussels in classic white wine and cream sauce; the mussels were big, sweet and juicy, and the sauce had great depth of flavor - well seasoned but without being too salty, perfect for dipping skinny fries and garlic bread (so much garlic, so much joy!).

This is hearty fare done well, and if you have any room left for pud you will not be disappointed sticky toffee pudding with salted caramel ice-cream, chocolate orange torte with blood orange sorbet, or perhaps creme brûlée with almond biscotti - all made in house by Marcel and team.

There’s a really lovely feel about The Paper Mills; it’s a warm, inviting pub, with the lovely sound of diners having a good catch up over good food.

The Paper Mills, London Road, Wansford, Peterborough PE8 6JB 01780 782328 | paper-mills.com

This is hearty fare done well, and if you have any room left for pud you will not be disappointed.

Classic Village Pub with a twist of Fine Dining

BOOK ONLINE OR CALL 01733 252285 10 High Street, Glinton, Peterborough PE6 7LS

thebluebellglinton.co.uk

64 Taste Explosion

Dining at it’s best

Grab a great offer at one of these fine dining venues

Gravitas has collaborated with some of the finest dining venues in the region to showcase their food and to give our readers a unique dining invitation.

The Country Lounge Wansford celebrates the opening of a fabulous new café - Country Lounge Café Bar. This new café/wine bar offers delicious breakfasts, morning coffee and a selection of home-made cakes, lunches and evening meals. The Country Lounge is licensed to serve fine wines, beers, spirits and much more.

Open seven-days-a-week from 9am-4pm and Thursday to Saturday, it’s also open in the evenings whereby the atmosphere changes to a more intimate setting of a wine bar until 10pm. Sundays are made even more special by offering an amazing traditional Sunday Lunch with a choice of meats served with all of the trimmings.

The Country Lounge also provides private functions. You are all welcome to come and say hello to see what we are about.

OFFER As part of the Gravitas Fine Dining Club you will receive 10% off your evening meals until the end of March 2019.

Wansford Country Lounge Cafe Bar 12 London Road, Wansford PE8 6JB 07712 266382

The Blue Bell

The Millstone Inn

The Blue Bell in Glinton, just north of Peterborough, is set in an 18thcentury English country pub and offers real ales, oak beams and cosy open fires.

Within the centre of this attractive village and only 3 miles from Stamford, this Grade II Listed stone public house offers different dining areas for both casual and formal dining as well as catering for parties of differing sizes.

The dining experience, recognised in the Michelin Guide, offers modern cuisine in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. And the new garden room allows diners extensive views of the grounds while enjoying their meals.

This venue also offers the options of private dining and professional lunches and is childfriendly.

Head chef, Will Frankgate and his team use only the freshest ingredients supplied by local producers, ensuring the perfect dish every time.

OFFER Winter Early Doors Offer - Any Two Courses and a bottle of Prosecco to share for £24.95 per person. Available between 6pm-7pm Tuesday to Friday.

Our new menu for 2019 will get your taste buds watering whilst you pour over the generous list of dishes and then there’s a special’s board. From nibbles and lighter dishes to freshly battered haddock & chips, coconut Thai curry or baby back ribs, as well as some exemplary fine dining dishes and delicious home-made desserts, there is something for everyone. All ingredients are locally sourced where possible and all dishes are freshly made on the premises by Oliver and his team.

OFFER

T&C (minimum of 2 people, maximum 8 people) offer valid throughout January, February and March 19. Booking is essential. Please quote Gravitas when making a booking to validate offer.

Winter early doors offer - when you are dining with us, buy 2 large glasses of wine and get the rest of the bottle free.

Available Monday - Friday between 17.30 and 19.00, please quote GRAVITAS when booking your table. Applies to Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc.

The Blue Bell, 10 High Street, Glinton, Peterborough PE6 7LS thebluebellglinton.co.uk 01733 252285

The Millstone Inn, Millstone Lane, Barnack, PE9 3ET millstoneinnbarnack.co.uk 01780 740296

PREVOSTPETERBOROUGH.CO.UK 01733 313 623

WINE BAR & KITCHEN

In the centre of the historic market town of Market Deeping is the town’s latest food, drink and entertainment offering.

Circles Wine Bar & Kitchen opened in November 2018 and is an informal and comfortable environment serving international tapas and sharing platters plus a great selection of quality wines, beers and premium spirits.

The venue can also be hired out for groups of between 30-80 people for private parties etc.

INFORMAL & COMFORTABLE RELAXED MUSIC SELECTION

NEW W INE BAR & K ITCHEN UPSTAI RS AT THE SQ UARE!!

SUPERB COLLECTION OF WINES, PREMIUM DRINKS, GINS, RUMS & OTHER SPIRITS EVENING MENU INCLUDING INTERNATIONAL TAPAS & SHARING PLATTERS SPECIAL “THEMED EVENINGS” INCLUDING STEAK NIGHTS, DESTINATION EVENINGS (I.E. INDIAN, MEXICAN, FRENCH), SPECIALIST MUSIC NIGHTS (I.E. JAZZ-FUNK/SOUL, NORTHERN SOUL, MOTOWN ETC) OPEN WED-FRI EVENINGS AND SAT & SUN FROM LUNCH TILL LATE REGULAR “LAZY SUNDAYS” WITH DJ PLAYING FUNK/SOUL AND THE KITCHEN OPEN 2PM - 8PM PRIVATE ROOM HIRE FOR UP TO 80 PEOPLE TO SUIT ANY OCCASION, INCLUDING BIRTHDAYS, ANNIVERSARIES, WEDDING RECEPTIONS AND WAKES

13 MARKET PLACE, MARKET DEEPING PE6 8EA SEE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

THESQUAREDEEPING or call Steve on 01778 347653

S U N D AY L U N C H AT S TA P L E F O R D PA R K Sunday lunch at Stapleford Park is the perfect time with friends and family, whatever the occasion.

With regional and seasonal inspirations, Chef’s menus are designed to satisfy the most discerning of palates.

Available from 12:00 to 2:00pm including three courses at ÂŁ32.50 per person.

To book, please email reception@staplefordpark.com or call 01572 787 000

Stapleford Park, Stapleford, Nr. Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 2EF, England. www.staplefordpark.com

68 Taste Explosion

Parveen the Spice Queen We talk to Parveen Ashraf - cookery teacher, author and private chef, about her journey and successes.

What does success mean to you?

For me, success means the health and happiness of my family, the house being clean and dinner on the table. It may sound a little basic but when all that is in place, it gives me a good base to focus on work and my business.

Success is a journey, so tell us of some of the ups and downs you have had so far.

years without success. Rejection can be hard to take

I had a dream of having my own TV cookery show

was taken ill. I went to visit mum and told her that

but how was I going to achieve that? Whilst doing

no-one seems interested but she told me that I must

my research, my eldest son went to University and before leaving he asked me to teach him some recipes and cooking methods. He wanted a taste of home so I wrote my first recipes for him.... plus, I made him little sachets of freshly ground spices to use. The recipe and spice bags worked a treat and the ‘Spice Box’ was born!

I realised that I quite enjoyed writing recipes, so I wrote several more, then eventually went on to write my cook book which took about 3 years.

Whilst writing my book, I was working as a private chef and cookery teacher, plus I got a regular show on Hochanda Shopping channel, based in Peterborough. Working on a local shopping channel gave me confidence in front of the camera and I love demonstrating the recipes from my spice box.

Although I now had TV experience and a cook book manuscript, it was so difficult to get it published. I emailed different publishers every week for almost 2

and I was on the verge of giving up when my mother

not give up on my dreams. She made me promise to keep going. My mum passed away that night and six weeks later I got the book deal with a local publisher, Taryn Johnston, who helped me to turn my manuscript into a beautiful book. Naturally, the book is dedicated to my late mother.

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Do you always cook from fresh and do you have any tips to save time?

I think that everyone should make time to cook but in reality, it’s difficult. I find that if you plan ahead and batch cook on a weekend, it makes life easier.

Just make enough to freeze or to keep in the fridge for a few days. Curries taste even better the next day but if you really don’t have the time to cook a full-on curry, then I have designed some quick recipes. My pan-fried tandoori chicken and lamb shish kebabs only take 10 minutes!

I find that if you plan ahead and batch cook on a weekend, it makes life easier. Just make enough to freeze or to keep in the fridge for a few days.

}

So, what does the future hold for

}

Overnight success has taken me over

Parveen?

10 years... From the Spice Box to my

Well, it’s taken 10 years to achieve

Me (that’s another story) then working

my goal and I am now in the middle of filming my own TV show.

Gosh! even when I say it, it seems so surreal but you will be able to see me on your screens in the new year. My show will be aired on Sunday mornings.

My 10-part series is all about my

first TV appearance on Come Dine with for shopping channels, through to having my own show. I could not have done it without all the small steps and the support of so many people along the way. I would like to thank everyone for their support and the part they have played in my journey. I wanted national recognition but started local

passion for cooking authentic Indian

and that gave me the confidence to do

food and serving it with love.

what I am doing now.

“I hope people enjoy the show and embrace my recipes.”

Parveen’s Indian Kitchens 10 part series will be on ITV on Jan 20th.

Visit ParveenTheSpiceQueen.com for more details.

Helping businesses and their owners At Saffery Champness, our experts advise businesses and their owners to ensure long-term success and prosperity for both.

The ability to look beyond the numbers to the heart of an issue is what sets a good private wealth adviser apart. Whether you are a successful business owner or someone who has inherited your wealth, having an adviser beside you who has seen the issues before is important.

We have great experience in advising some of the UK’s wealthiest individuals. We help them to protect, maintain and enhance their private wealth in the most commercial, tax efficient and costeffective manner possible.

For more information on how we might work with you, contact: Fenella Martin-Redman Partner T: +44 (0)1733 353300 E: fenella.martin-redman@ saffery.com

www.saffery.com

Alistair Hunt Partner T: +44 (0)1733 353342 E: alistair.hunt@saffery.com

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Gifts in Wills

Have you considered making provision for a charity in your Will? Buckles Solicitors give us reasons to do so.

Occasionally, an article may appear in the local news relaying the story of someone who has died and left their entire savings to Battersea Dogs Home or similar. In reality, financial gifts left to charities in Wills are not as commonplace as you might expect, regardless of the sums involved, with a mere 6% of people in the UK making such provision.

Nevertheless, charitable gifts are a key element in sustaining charities and the services they deliver.

Despite the relatively low proportion of the population contributing to the overall figure, charity legacy income reached an all-time high of ÂŁ2.8bn in 2017. However, there is certainly scope to further increase this total and charities are urging people to consider setting aside some of their estate as charitable gifts in their Wills.

Making provision for a charity in your Will can benefit your surviving family as well as your chosen

cause by maximising the opportunity to reduce your potential Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability. Your donation will be deducted from the value of estate before IHT is calculated, and could even reduce your IHT rate from 40% to 36% if your gift accounts for at least 10% of your net estate.

A charity could also benefit from the inclusion of a longstop or ‘disaster’ clause in a Will. This allows for an alternative (charitable) beneficiary to be designated should an event or accident occur in which the intended primary beneficiaries die before or at the same time as the person who made the Will, rather than the estate being left subject to Rules of Intestacy.

Please contact us if you would like to review your Will and consider the inclusion of charitable gifts, on 01733 888888 or visit buckles.co.uk

72 Down to Business

Declutter your thinking Sukhi Wahiwala - local businessman, strategic business mentor and private coach. We wanted to find out about the man behind The Inspired Business Club.

Having been very successful and driven from an early age, I want to know, what does success mean for you?

The way I see success is, if you set out to do something and thus achieve it, that is success.

We tend to see success as financial only, but in my world, success is spiritual, phycological as well as physical.

I have always been very focused, however, in 2006, I was taken ill having travelled back from America. I was on a mission as I just launched a new business, but a virus hit me. I collapsed and was sent to PDH. I was so ill and was only 2 hours away from losing my life and that makes you think. I realised now it was a gift and it made me focus on what was really important. It hit me that I could have been taken away from my beautiful wife, my children and eight siblings. I think even without a life changing event,

we should all ask ourselves the important questions about how our life is now and how it should be. I have done a TED talk that covers this in more detail and the secrets of daily focus.

As well as running a successful business, you also mentor and run master minding programs, tell us about that.

I started in business at 17, taking over a family business. I still have a retail business, importing and exporting goods, property development and property restoration.

I have just completed the Business Growth Accelerator which is a 3-day boot camp program, which aligns all three elements of one’s life. It blows concentration, focus, belief and understanding to another hemisphere. To date we have impacted 50,000 people in a short period of time.

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My philosophy is this - if man is not giving, they are not truly living.

}

}

Who inspired and mentored you?

My primary influence was my mother - she is a business person and for 16 years she ran a retail shop as well as bringing up her children and looking after an elderly mother-in-law as well as being a wife.

So, my teaching of inner humanity came from her but my dad was a great influence, too. Having 6 sisters taught me there are no differences in business, male and females are all just business people. In the last decade I have been working with thousands of people, but presently out of the 800 currently going through my programs, 68% of my students are female. It is also perhaps a sign of the times, where women want to achieve more. So along with copartner, Am Gohlar, who is an inspiring mentoree, we have created Inspired Business Women. We want to inspire the next generation!

How would you like to be thought of, perhaps your legacy?

I have been working since 2008 on a legacy which is about sharing and instilling the knowledge from seven generations and from both of my parents’ life journeys. I’m writing three books and video scripts at the moment bringing together this knowledge and combining this with my Britishness. This will be the body of work that I want to leave.

You’re very skilful in achieving, so what are your best tips for achieving goals for 2019?

This process is useful in setting goals. The reality is, wherever my thoughts go, my energy goes and results follow.

The DFT Method – helps to declutter your thinking!

Step 1 – Ask yourself a question connected to what you want to achieve in one area of your life. Write it out at the top of a page. Mind dump onto the page, in black pen, don’t think about it, just write whatever comes up. Write for at least 5 minutes - trust the process.

Step 2 - Have a break, it helps to re-boot your brain.

Step 3 - Take a red pen and circle the 10 most relevant or important points. Grab another page and re-write those 10 in black pen.

Step 4 - Choose 5 now, circle them in red and then rewrite the 5 in black onto another page, circle in red the 3 most relevant and move to another page.

Step 5 - You now have the 3 most important steps to take forward, now put them in order. Throw away all the previous pages. Now we know what needs to be done, one at a time.

Step 6 - You now have the most important task first, that needs all your concentration. Now we know what needs to be done.

Step 7 - Get it done!

What have you got planned for 2019?

In 2019 we are launching the Business Growth Incubator for anyone who is in business, or getting a business ready to sell. For 90 days you are mentored for one full day a month, focusing on the millionaire -mind set. Businesses from all over the country are booking on but it is being held in Peterborough.

This will be added to our other offerings with God’s blessing.

If you are stuck in business or wanting to grow and require private business mentoring with an experienced Forbes judge, then please contact Sukhi directly on: 07976 200193 | Sukhi@bbr.club sukhiwahiwala.com/mentor-me

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Trust the professionals Whether your business is a new start up or well-established and expanding, expert advice can be invaluable to ascertain the correct ways to focus your time, energy and resources for a solid foundation or growth plan. Our wealth of industry experts explain how, with up-to-date information and insights. For further guidance contact our professionals directly.

First aid training It’s an awful thought to imagine the worst. Whether staff, colleagues, family, friends, children…the fallout of accidents resulting in injury can be incredibly traumatic for all involved.

Get the skills to support and offer necessary help to the injured party. Gain life-skills and a new-found confidence.

Our first aid training meets HSE and Ofsted requirements; delivered by fully qualified trainers who have years of experience of First Aid. We can deliver at your location, inhouse at our centre or via blended learning options utilising a mix of online and practical learning.

Our courses include: • 3-day First Aid at Work • 1-day Emergency First Aid at Work • 2-day Paediatric First Aid • Family First Aid • Basic Life Support All our courses are fully certificated and delivered with modern, fun and interesting methods; ensuring maximum engagement and participation.

Choosing a First Aid training provider can be a minefield as there are so many to choose from. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

Ria Steventon, Director ria.steventon@advancementtraining.co.uk 01733 294526

How Engaged are your Employees?

In my last column we identified the first 6 questions to ask your employees to find out how ‘engaged’ they are. ‘Happy’ employees are more likely to be great performers and create a really positive and customer focused workplace.

Here are 6 more questions for you to consider and explore with your employees.

Score each question from 1-5. 1 = areas to improve and 5 = doing well.

1. Do your opinions seem to count?

2. Does the mission/purpose of your company make you feel your job is important?

3. Are your colleagues committed to doing quality work?

4. Do you have a best friend at work?

5. In the last six months, has someone talked to you about your progress?

6. In the last year, have you had opportunities to learn and grow?

These questions are designed to generate discussion and encourage honest feedback.

Remember to make sure you commit to some actions as a result.

You can find all of the questions in a downloadable ‘survey’ template at inspireignite.net. Need a bit of help? Drop Shaun a note at shaun@inspireignite.net

Retirement Planning Are you approaching that time of life when you are planning your retirement?

No more work, but instead, relaxation, holidays and time with family and friends. It all comes at a cost, and understanding all the options can seem very daunting.

Arranging your retirement income is key to enjoying all the lovely things you have planned, so it is really crucial to take financial planning advice in good time.

To prepare for an advice consultation we suggest you sit down with a blank piece of paper and write down all the things you want to achieve in retirement, and all the things that worry you about this time of life.

You are now ready to speak to a financial adviser.

TUTO translates from Latin as ‘In Safe Hands’ and we hope that you will discover this for yourself when you experience our services.

Knowing where you stand before you finally finish work will give you peace of mind and you can then look forward to putting your feet up!

Jane Smethurst APFS Chartered Financial Planner, Pension Transfer Specialist jane@tuto.org.uk 01733 235221

76 Down to Business

Trust the professionals Whether your business is a new start up or well-established and expanding, expert advice can be invaluable to ascertain the correct ways to focus your time, energy and resources for a solid foundation or growth plan. Our wealth of industry experts explain how, with up-to-date information and insights. For further guidance contact our professionals directly.

Construction Industry Expertise Are you thinking of procuring a construction project? Or are you currently engaged in one that needs rescuing?

Arbicon are leading Contract Administrators, Chartered Quantity Surveyors and specialists in construction disputes and ADR services such as adjudication, mediation and arbitration.

Local examples of landmarks we have successfully delivered are the Kiddicare Building, Maskew Avenue Retail Park and the Peterborough Extra Services expansion works. Arbicon also act as Expert Witnesses, dealing with all aspects of construction disputes, including payment issues, loss and expense, delay analysis and defects issues.

Based in Lynch Wood, we have dual qualified Chartered consultants, in quantity surveying and construction law, each with almost years 40 years’ experience. Every aspect of commercial construction, legal and financial is covered. Arbicon focuses on results and justice where necessary at a commercially acceptable cost.

At Arbicon, we take the view that our customers own us, we are able to deliver a high-quality service for both construction employers and contractors. In the case of contractors, we become your commercial department. Our team is here to help whatever your construction needs are.

Jonathan Nugent, Managing Director advice@arbicon.co.uk 01733 233737

Avoid the dispute!

Network successfully

When trading on credit terms, there may be times when your customer disputes an invoice.

Understanding and communicating with different personality types.

Whether there’s a mistake on the invoice or they claim the service was poor. The way a dispute is handled can impact the speed at which you get paid. Its vital disputes are resolved asap to prevent cashflow issues.

Here are six ways this can be achieved; 1. Ask for part payment - Ask the customer to pay the undisputed part of the invoice before attempting to resolve the dispute.

2. Don’t be afraid to confront the issue Chasing for payment can seem daunting, for fear of upsetting your customers. Face the problem head on, the longer you wait, the harder it is to collect payment.

3. Speak to the right person - Only talk to the person in charge of paying the invoice.

Collect this information prior to supplying goods or services.

Over the years we have to come to understand that networking is a huge part of our marketing activity and it’s not just about turning up at an event and handing out and collecting business cards.

It’s important to understand who’s in the room, finding out their personality type, but more importantly, how to communicate with them successfully.

We often hear the phrase ‘just be yourself’ and we whole heartedly agree with this as you could come across as false. However, one skill every networker should have is an understanding of how best to interact with different personality types.

4. Be prepared - Keep a record of all correspondence, proof of delivery of invoices etc. Armed with this information your dispute will be resolved more quickly.

For example, if you are talking to someone who is extrovert and loves social interaction, there’s little point focusing on the minute detail of your product or service, whereas if its someone who is more analytical, they are not as interested in the fun side of your business and the customer appreciation days you hold.

5. Remain professional - Be objective and firm, and listen to the client’s situation to offer a solution if needed. Always remain calm and rational.

At Connect, we have implemented training for our new and existing members to improve their skill set when it comes to networking successfully.

6. Feedback - If the dispute is genuine, ensure constructive feedback is given to the department/person responsible to ensure you don’t end up with the same issues in the future.

We would love for you to join us one morning or afternoon.

Julie P Randall - Incrementi Ltd julie@incrementi.co.uk | 01223 782708

If you would like to attend as a guest, please contact me: 07944 664 554 jasony@connectbusinessnetworking.co.uk

Start saving on your card payments today Switch to Paymentsense and save up to 40% on your card processing costs.

Rachel Strange

Concession Manager rachel.strange@paymentsense.com 0808 284 9582 (freephone)

The UK and Ireland’s largest merchant service provider

78 Down to Business

A strong woman with a strong business mind Interview with Khadija Kalifa from The Apprentice and owner of Opal & Pearl.

Local lady and mum of two girls, Khadija started her cleaning company Opal & Pearl after moving back to the area. This is not her first business and I’m guessing it won’t be her last. Having now moved into the Brightfield Business Hub in Orton Southgate, we popped along to see how she is and asked her some questions about her life and her appearance on BBC The Apprentice.

How are you handling all of the attention?

What does success mean to you?

I respect all of my fellow contestants. I get on with the majority of them, but there are one or two that in real life I wouldn’t get on with, just because we just don’t gel. I am very straightforward and some people don’t like that. I can come across as quite blunt and I don’t mean to be! I don’t like manipulators, people who stab each other in the back, and so if I see that and it’s quite transparent to me, there is just no way we can be besties.

Success for me is being able to provide for my family, and that includes my mum and my partner’s family.

My mum struggled as a single parent to care for us - there were four of us to look after. Success is not about me, I don’t really care about designer clothes, its far more important to be able to provide for my children and even my children’s children, giving them the opportunity to do what they want.

It’s quite bizarre! In one aspect, my life has really changed. I’m going out every night to networking or business events, I was even asked to turn on the Peterborough Christmas lights. In another aspect, I’m just mum at home, changing bums and wiping noses like any mum, which keeps my feet on the ground.

How has it been on The Apprentice – give us the gossip?

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I am so grateful for the opportunity and all of the tasks that I took part in. I’m enjoying the rollercoaster but I am also very aware that all of this will stop at some point. So, I’m trying not to get too stressed out about it and just enjoy the ride.

I love Peterborough! I have moaned about it in the past, but everything you need is here. I love shopping on Lincoln Road, with so many cool restaurants and cultures represented. When I was younger, I was very much a city girl, but with children your mindset changes. We have moved a little further out to give my children the countryside to play in, but my office is in Peterborough and we work with many Peterborough businesses, so I love it!

Many more women are starting their own home-based business and it is on the increase, but only 26% of women owners employ 5 staff or more, so there is still room for improvement. The women on The Apprentice are doing an amazing job at highlighting women abilities in business. As a female business owner, how would you encourage more women to start a business?

I have been at the point where I have employed up to 30 people but I’m down scaling a bit now. It’s not necessarily the businesses that employee the most people that are the most successful. If you have

}

Peterborough sometimes gets a bad rap, you are a local girl, how do you feel about it?

I love Peterborough! I have moaned about it in the past, but everything you need is here. I love shopping on Lincoln Road, with so many cool restaurants and cultures represented.

}

a family and so much going on, employing people can be a real headache. I use to think that more employees meant I was more successful, but I know now that that’s not the case. If my profit is 1p, then who cares about how many staff I have.

So big up to all the women who have started their own business in the first place, it doesn’t matter how big or small it is, well done!

So, what does the future hold for you?

My future looks very exciting! Myself and Joseph Valente are partnering up - Joseph won series 11 of The Apprentice and is also from Peterborough.

We are proud that we are both from the area, we’re the same age and both starred on the show.

We are going to be working together to make networking cool. We don’t want three course meals or exchanging business cards - I don’t want to carry cards, anyone can just find me on social media.

Business doesn’t need to be so pretentious, we want to keep it real. We are both quite rugged round the edges, we didn’t go to private school and we want to meet people who work hard and want to be successful.

I have been honoured to be asked to speak to universities, and I enjoy that. Opal & Pearl have launched a new product range and we are expanding the business and have new offices.

I have missed out on some time with my kids so I want to spend as much time with them as I can, take them on some cool holidays and do some fun things.

This young lady is full of positive energy and we think she has a very bright future!

80 Down to Business

Time to network

A number of opportunities for you to network with like-minded business professionals.

Talk Networking Flexible and affordable networking.

Meeting on the 1st Thursday of every month from 12.30-2.00pm at Mama Liz’s, Stamford, these events attract 35+ attendees with up to a third as new visitors. There is no commitment to join so you attend as and when you want to.

A full delegates list is provided following the meeting with access to a LinkedIn group for attendees.

To book a seat or for more information get in contact.

Felicity Francis info@talknetworking.co.uk 01780 693123

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Connect Business Networking Hands up if you’ve ever felt nervous or out of your comfort zone when going to a networking event?

At Connect Business Networking we pride ourselves on our fun, friendly but business focussed approach to networking and we would like to invite you to one of our meetings at the Marriott Hotel, Lynchwood, Peterborough PE2.

Upcoming dates: Breakfast: 7.15am - 9.30am Thursday 10th January Thursday 24th January Thursday 7th February Thursday 21st February Thursday 7th March Thursday 21st March

Please email: heidi@setchfieldvaservices.com quoting ‘Gravitas’ to reserve your place or book via Eventbrite.

Jason & Tracy Yearwood connectbusinessnetworking.co.uk 07944 664554

Lunch: 12.15am – 2.30pm Friday 11th January Friday 8th February Friday 8th March

Rutland & Stamford Business Network This local network aims to encourage local businesses to get together and prosper. It’s a great way to make new business contacts and gain the advantages of belonging to a larger enterprise.

Every four weeks on a Friday at Barnsdale Lodge, Oakham.

Ben Callaghan ben@rutlandbusiness.co.uk rutlandbusiness.co.uk 01572 770352

The Business Network Attracting senior decision-makers to the monthly events, the unique, professional format offers an effective environment for building close working links and establishing that invaluable ‘support network’ of business contacts.

Monthly on the 4th Thursday 12pm-2pm July & Aug – Haycock Hotel Sept & Oct – Marriott Hotel Peterborough Simon Coy simon@business-network.co.uk business-network-peterborough.co.uk 07860 121773

Booth Networking Booth networking has taken Peterborough by storm with the most recent events attracting over 120 businesses into the stadium.

Hannah Thompson peterboroughgreyhounds.com 01733 296939

Positive Networking A supportive environment for open-minded and collaborative business people – those looking to open up, share experiences and learn from each other.

This group provides the widest range of networking formats on the circuit – innovative events with much participation and collaboration.

The focus is on developing the business owner as well as the business.

Held monthly at Orton Hall Hotel, Peterborough, on a Thursday 6.00pm - 9.00pm Mike Stokes positivenetworking.co.uk 07887 651394

APPS FOR PUBS, BARS, TAKEAWAYS & RESTAURANTS

Book A Free Demo Today www.trustedmedia.co.uk | 01733 788766 | hello@trustedmedia.co.uk

Look no further than Look noTTKW furtherSolicitors than Taylor Rose Rose TTKW Solicitors forTaylor Commercial Property expertise Look no Property further than for Commercial expertise Taylor Rose TTKW Solicitors for Commercial Property expertise

Local businesses have relied on Taylor Rose TTKW’s team of Commercial Property experts have for the last seven years, having become well for Local businesses relied on Taylor Rose TTKW’s team of known Commercial their extensive local approach to transactions Property experts for knowledge, the last sevenproactive years, having become well known and for high standards of client care. their extensive local knowledge, proactive approach to transactions and

LEADING FIRM 2019 LEADING FIRM

2019 Local businesses have care. relied on Taylor Rose TTKW’s team of Commercial high standards of client Property experts for the last seven years, having become well known for extensive local knowledge, proactive approach transactions andacquisition andLEADING FIRM Thistheir year the Commercial Property team is proud Kaur, to provide advice on site disposals, 2019 to be one standards of the few East Angliancare. legal firms to be development, funding and commercial leases. The team high of client

This year the Commercial Property team is proud recommended

by The Legal 500, the leading guide to to befirms one and of the few East firms provides to be law solicitors in Anglian the UK. legal The guide recommended

by The Legalin500, leading and guide to those buying legal services the the UK reliable up-tolaw firms and solicitors the UK. guide provides date information on lawinfirms withThe recommendations This the Commercial team is and proud those buying legal services inProperty theand UKpeers. reliable up-tobased onyear feedback from clients be one of the Anglian legal firms to be datetoinformation onfew lawEast firms with recommendations recommended by Theclients Legal 500, the leading guide to based onNick feedback from peers.

Partner Scutt heads up the and Commercial Property law firms and solicitors in the UK. The guide provides team who, with Solicitors Navead Yousaf and Rajinder those buying services in Commercial the UK reliable and up-toPartner Nick Scuttlegal heads up the Property date information on law firms with recommendations team who, with Solicitors Navead Yousaf and Rajinder based on feedback from clients and peers.

Partner Nick Scutt heads up the Commercial Property team who, with Solicitors Navead Yousaf and Rajinder

Kaur, oncommercial site acquisition and disposals, alwaysprovide put theadvice client’s interests first, development, funding leases.

The team providing astute adviceand andcommercial effective legal representation, always put the client’s commercial with a cost-effective and pragmatic interests approach.first, providing astute advice and effective legal representation, Kaur,a provide adviceand on site acquisition and whatever disposals, the with cost-effective pragmatic approach.

Whatever the prevailing economic climate, development, funding and commercial leases. The team scale of investment or the nature of the challenge, clients always put the client’s commercial interestswhatever first, Whatever climate, the can alwaysthe relyprevailing on Tayloreconomic Rose TTKW. providing astute advice and effective legal representation, scale of investment or the nature of the challenge, clients with a cost-effective and Rose pragmatic approach. can always rely on Taylor TTKW. Whatever the prevailing economic climate, whatever the scale of investment or the nature of the challenge, clients can always rely on Taylor Rose TTKW.

For more information on how our Commercial Property team can help your business please call us on 01733 333333 or email For more information oninfo@taylor-rose.co.uk. how our Commercial Property team can help your business please call us on 01733 333333 or email info@taylor-rose.co.uk.

For more information on how our Commercial Property team can help your business please call us on 01733 333333 or email info@taylor-rose.co.uk.

Meet the *Legal 500 recommended Taylor Rose TTKW Commercial Property Team If you have commercial property to purchase, sell or lease then talk to the Taylor Rose TTKW commercial property team. They have a wealth of specialist knowledge, experience and expert legal advice that can help your business. They have built a loyal client base and extensive local knowledge in the seven years they have been advising Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire businesses on a wide range of commercial property legal services. They are recommended by The Legal 500 and recognised for their proactive approach to transactions and high standards of client care.

Nick Scutt, Partner

Navead Yousaf, Solicitor

Rajinder Kaur, Solicitor

Nick, who handles real estate and M&A transactions, qualified as a solicitor in 1987. Nick’s clients are diverse and long standing and include investors, private and corporate developers and occupiers.

Managing parties’ expectations with due attention, discretion and a wealth of technical knowledge continues to win Nick and Taylor Rose TTKW recommendations from both the region and nationally.

Navead is a well-respected solicitor who advises local and national clients on all aspects of real estate such as acquisitions, disposals, development and planning. In addition he advises on leasing, financing and the real estate aspects of corporate transactions. Locally Navead and the team recently advised on a ÂŁ1.65m purchase of a landmark building as well as a major development that resulted in the sale of 30 plus residential units.

Rajinder originally joined the firm as a commercial property paralegal and qualified as a solicitor in 2017 after completing her legal training with Taylor Rose TTKW. Rajinder is regularly recommended by clients and estate agents for her friendly, professional manner and her commitment to delivering a high quality of service.

Contact Nick on nick.scutt@taylor-rose.co.uk

Contact Rajinder on rajinder.kaur@taylor-rose.co.uk

Contact Navead on navead.yousaf@taylor-rose.co.uk

If you require any advice on a

84 Down to Business

‘Venture’ into the club!

One of the region’s most successful entrepreneurs is looking for a host of new business partners for 2019, just weeks after celebrating his second multi-million pound company sale.

Quotient Technologies Inc, one of the leading digital promotions, media and analytics companies based in Silicon Valley, California, has just acquired his latest business - four year old and Stamford-based Elevaate.com, to boost its eCommerce offerings in America.

Scott explained it as ‘one of the biggest UK tech deals of the year’ and a boom for the local economy and future investment opportunities.

Scott Weavers Wright, the technical brains and CEO behind Kiddicare. com, which was sold for £70m, has launched an investment ‘club’ aimed at investing in some of the country’s most exciting digital start-ups as the ink dries on his latest start up exit.

Quotient Technology will continue to HQ the business from their Stamford Hub, growing the team immediately. The existing team will roll-out the technology stateside over the next two years to their entire network of customers, making Elevaate one of the biggest monetisation platforms in American.

But as the seasoned entrepreneur explains, he has no plans to stop there: “The sale has really raised the profile of Haatch

and Stamford and what we are trying to achieve, and it’s for this very reason that we have now launched our new fund Haatch Ventures.”

“The idea is to open up our investments to others via a tax effective EIS fund, and so we are now actively looking for others to join the club and invest with us! We’ve just closed tranche one and are now looking for more people to join us on the journey.”

The fund has welcomed senior Google director Mark Bennett and Simon Penson, founder of local digital agency Zazzle Media, to the team alongside Scott and Haatch co-founder Fred Soneya to scale the opportunity for others.

Want to find out more about how you can invest alongside Scott and team, or have an exciting start-up idea to pitch? Visit haatch. com/ventures to find out more or email fred@haatch.com

And the nominations are…

National Recognition for Will and Probate Services at the British Wills and Probate Awards.

“The British Wills and Probate Awards are the Oscars of our industry and we were delighted to be nominated alongside national names such as the Co-op Legal Services and Irwin Mitchell Solicitors. We had been entered in three categories and made the final three in one.” Says Nick Ash, MD of independent company Will & Probate Services.

At a glitzy awards ceremony Kloë Davis, probate team leader and Kate Jacobs, development manager, were on hand to pick up our highly commended award as we came a close second to a national firm of solicitors.

To be recognised on a national stage, especially when the recognition came in the wake of being finalists at the National Entrepreneurs Awards, is humbling. Our ambition has always been for Will and Probate Services to be one of the best known and most respected legal brands in the country.

Speaking of the event Kloë said “It was a fantastic night. To be amongst the most influential people in our industry was an affirmation of just how far we have come and gives me huge confidence in our vision for Will and Probate Services”.

Coming so close to bringing home the

trophies only increases our determination to be there next year and to go one better.

If you would like to speak to Will and Probate Services, a local firm making an impact on a national stage, about any aspect of your planning, then call us on 01778 382723 and book your initial consultation today.

can you identify a problem with your current brand?

We love getting to really know you, understand the story behind your brand and uncover its unique characteristics. Whether you want to bring an idea to life or rejuvenate an existing brand, we strive to set you apart from the crowd.

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01780 753313 wearehue.co.uk hello@wearehue.co.uk

RECKLESSABANDONMEDIA.CO.UK

87

Stand out from the crowd Elevate Your Video Marketing Strategy in 2019. Words by Reckless Abandon Media

The popularity of video as a marketing tool will continue its rise heading into 2019. As well as highquality promotional videos, many businesses have been embracing internally created video content using their mobile phones. With more and more video appearing in social media feeds and searches, how do you take your video content to the next level that differentiates you from your competitors?

Establishing a live connection with your audience is very engaging, allowing them to contribute and be a part of the content you’re creating.

Transmedia storytelling

into your current projects and take them on a journey with you. Video

Telling a story through multiple platforms is known as transmedia storytelling. With this thought, it’s important that you don’t blanket upload your videos across your website and social media. People digest your content in different ways. When you optimise and target your videos on various digital platforms you maximise your impact.

Also, don’t be afraid to create a video using an old blog post or an

allows you to be transparent, generating a buzz around your brand.

ebook you’ve written.

Go live

Using a video production company

Live streaming can create a direct and immediate connection with

Using an external video production company doesn’t only represent your company and what you do but gives you an outsider’s perspective. This is important as what you may find dull or every day, your audience may find exciting. Polished video with high production value gives your brand legitimacy. A production company relieves the technical burden of video creation, allowing you to focus on the key messages you want to convey.

It starts with you Give your customers a peek behind the curtain. Give them insight

your customers in real time, rather than solely posting a video once the event has finished. Your followers are directly notified when you’re broadcasting live as well as being visible in their feed. Whilst this can seem daunting, audiences respond well to the honesty and openness of a live stream, plus they’re more forgiving of mistakes or errors. Establishing this live connection with your audience is very engaging, allowing them to contribute and be a part of the content you’re creating.

Instagram stories and vertical video In addition to your polished Instagram feeds, there’s an opportunity to create brand authenticity with Stories. As posts only last 24 hours, you have a lot of creative freedom with the videos you create. Take your followers on a tour behind your brand. Vertical video is the native standard for Stories offering a full-screen experience for your viewers.

Keep connecting with your audience through video; create an ongoing cycle of continuous engagement through your content. Build up your video brand with a balanced approach, making use of the different formats and platforms available; go where your customers go. Always seek ways to improve your video content and keep posts fresh; retaining the interest of viewers will maximise your opportunities to turn them into customers.

Reckless Abandon Media recklessabandonmedia.co.uk

88 Down to Business

Communicating to your customers on mass will give you the perfect opportunity to engage, develop long-term meaningful relationships, remarket, increase retention and help develop customer loyalty.

89

Marketing – the right way I am passionate about email newsletter marketing campaigns. Why? Well that’s simple… Once up on a time there was a business that didn’t communicate to its customers. THE END. Stay in touch with your customers using email newsletter marketing.

Email marketing done correctly is one of the most powerful cost-effective ways of staying in touch with your customers on a regular basis.

Communicating to your customers on mass will give you the perfect opportunity to engage, develop long-term meaningful relationships, remarket, increase retention and help develop customer loyalty.

Whether you are trying to share valuable content, keep your customers up-to-date with your most recent offers, products or services, a powerful well-balanced and informative email newsletter message will grab their attention and encourage them to take further action.

Email marketing can allow you to create targeted and personalised messages and advertisements, specific to your customers, increase website traffic, leads, sales and can boost SEO results.

Mailed correctly, email marketing will give you analytic tracking and insights into your customers buying behaviour, so you will know who opened, when, where, and what products they were most interested in.

With the right headline, content and calls to action, email newsletter marketing should be a key part of your marketing & digital marketing strategies.

Email Marketing and GDPR Source: ico.org.uk GDPR “You must not send marketing emails or texts to individuals without specific consent. There is a limited exception for your own previous customers, often called the ‘soft opt-in’.”

What is a ‘soft opt-in’?

“The term ‘soft opt-in’ is sometimes used to describe the rule about existing customers. The idea is that if an individual bought something from you recently, gave you their details, and did not opt out of marketing messages, they are probably happy to receive marketing from you about similar products or services even if they haven’t specifically consented.

However, you must have given them a clear chance to opt out – both when you first collected their details, and in every message you send.”

If you are unsure about any customer lists you hold under GDPR, visit streetsmarketingagency.co.uk or contact me for advice addie@streetsmarketing.co.uk, 07855447968.

Madeleine Lillywhite, MD Streets Marketing Agency, Stamford. #streetsmarketingagency

90 Out and About

The Gravitas Jolly Our advertisers, collaborators and guests were invited to a jolly evening event at Prevost, to celebrate our continued success at Gravitas and the launch of our new look wedding magazine – Amore.

Thank you to Lee Clarke at Prevost for hosting and providing a wonderful selection of canapés throughout the evening. hue – brand design digital, our graphic design team, sponsored the event and the whole team came and gave their support.

The Gravitas team love a social event and this one was the best to date. We had some amazing guests, many local business owners, a real who’s who of Greater Peterborough.

91

} Guests were greeted with champagne and cocktails on arrival. The most amazing canapés where brought around and where aplenty during the evening while everyone enjoyed mingling and chatting. Entertainment was the sound of singer and guitarist Gavin Hyde.

Our guest speaker, Neville Wright, did a wonderful presentation on his journey and entertained us with his story.

His energy and enthusiasm for Peterborough and how he turned 37p into £100million is a true testimony to anyone driven to succeed.

Our Publisher and owner, Heidi Semple, welcomed everyone and Mark Buttress from our graphic design team told his story, from his humble start to the success he has today and the launch of their own new brand – hue. The team at hue provided everyone with a goodie bag to take home with examples of their range of products.

We received so many thank you messages from those that met new contacts, those that have gone on to collaborate and also those that commented on having a truly wonderful evening!

See you all again at the next event…

The most amazing canapés where brought around and where aplenty during the evening while everyone enjoyed mingling and chatting.

}

92 Out and About

Colourful Cambridge

Cambridge is not only a superb place to spend the day – be it punting on the river, shopping in the boutiques, gazing at dazzling architecture or hobnobbing with the country’s finest intellects, it also offers a full and vibrant nightlife‌

Weekend retreat: Hotel Du Vin 15-19, Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1QA To get the most of this stupendous city, an overnight stay is a must. For a romantic getaway the Hotel Du Vin more than fits the bill. Converted from old University buildings, this elegant, boutique hotel oozes charm and style.

With 41 distinctive rooms, each with a custom-made bed, a monsoon shower or roll-top bath and Egyptian cotton linen, it is the ideal place to relax and revive.

Located on Trumpington Street and set amidst winding cobbled streets and elegant architecture, it is conveniently located for the city centre and offers easy access for drivers. hotelduvin.com | 01223 928991

93

Independent and historical: Hidden Rooms 7b Jesus Lane, Cambridge CB5 8BA Proudly independent and famous for its customer service, creative cocktails, prestigious spirits and bespoke events, Hidden Rooms not only offers the perfect night in the heart of the city, but will also be of interest to its more cultural visitors.

Located in the basement of a ‘Victorian era Roman Baths’, the building was designed and constructed in 1862 by the revered architect Sir Matthew Digby-Wyatt. The venue has been, and remains, in the trusteeship of the famed University Pitt Club since 1864.

By night, a cocktail bar and lounge that offers seated service from a dedicated team of experienced bartenders and staff alongside live music and entertainment. By day, a haven for the audacious as the events’ crew utilises the space for team-building activities such cocktail masterclasses and dance lessons. hiddenrooms.co.uk | 01223 514777 | Open Tuesday through to Saturday

An elegant supper: Oak Bistro 6 Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EG After something refined? The Oak Bistro is the ultimate neighbourhood bistro which offers rich, gourmet British cuisine in elegant, yet relaxed surroundings.

Once a coaching inn, the original watering hole was reputed to have taken its name from a large and ancient oak tree that once stood on the site. It is said that the wood from the tree was used in the building of the house.

The current Bistro, housed within a Grade II listed building, opened its doors in March 2009 and has become a firm favourite with locals and something of a find for the discerning tourist.

Choose the environment to suit your mood with two bistro settings inside and a walled garden for romantic al fresco dining during the more clement months. Suited best for a date night or intimate gathering. Prices reflect the quality.

Be sure to book. theoakbistro.co.uk | 01223 323361 Open Monday through to Saturday Painting by Nicholas Juett

94 Out and About Affordable: Warkworth House Warkworth Terrace, Cambridge, CB1 1E For a more economical suggestion, you cannot go wrong with the family run, award winning bed and breakfast. A very comfortable Guest House that offers wonderful customer care right in the heart of the city, but do call in advance to organise check in times. warkworthhouse.co.uk | 01223 363682

Out Clubbing?

If it’s a late-night venue you are looking for, then you really are spoilt for choice.

Cambridge plays host to a wide-range of city centre nightclubs offering a different style of music every night.

The most popular include:

Ballare - Lion Yard, Heidelburg Gardens, Cambridge CB2 3NA The largest nightclub in Cambridge, Ballare hosts events featuring the hottest DJs and acts on the scene with up to minute lighting and sound systems, a vast dance floor, three bars and a wide range of VIP booths. ballare.co.uk/cambridge 01223 364222 Open Tuesday through to Saturday

Fez Club - 15 Market Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PF

Vinyl - 22 Sidney St, Cambridge CB2 3HG

A Moroccan themed playground of middle eastern style, this club attracts top DJs playing a range of tunes including hip hop, R’n’B, reggae, dance and electro. Relaxed, popular with students, locals and party animals!

The new kid on the block - who doesn’t love a bit of boutique cheese? Here every night is party night with inflatable guitars, dress-up gear and a large dance floor, VIP booths and the pick pf the pops from the 80s, 90s and 00s.

cambridgefez.com | 0203 475 2176 Open Tuesday through to Saturday

vinylclub.co.uk/cambridge | 01223 324600 Open Friday through to Sunday

95

What’s on 6 February 9am - 4pm | The Peterborough Biscuit

Peterborough Biscuit is the largest B2B event in Peterborough. It has three main aims - to get as many different types of business from Peterborough in one place for one day so that they can showcase their high standards and diversity, to raise awareness

8 February 7.30pm | Pure Artists’ Launch Event

and promote local business products and services, and to improve local business knowledge by providing seminars from local Peterborough Business Champions who are leading, growing and innovating in real time and doing it now. Registration is open now for exhibitors and visitors – so don’t miss out.

DG Music, the counties’ foremost music

Where: East of England Arena and Events Centre, Peterborough How to book: peterboroughbiscuit.co.uk

Where: Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, Oakham

agency supplying live music across the Midlands and beyond, is proud to present its latest brand, Pure Artists - an exclusive range of musicians of the highest standard.

For one night only, Pure Artists acts will be playing together at The Barnsdale Lodge Banqueting Suite.

How to book: marketing@dgmusic.com | pureartists.co.uk

13 - 15 February | Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night This talented new theatre company is combining the Cathedral’s stunning Norman architecture, a sixties skiffle band and Shakespeare’s poetic language, to bring this colourful production to life. A show not to be missed.

Where: Peterborough Cathedral Tickets: £11.00 - £25.00 How to book: peterborough-cathedral.org. uk/twelfthnight or call Peterborough Information Centre on 01733 452336 Valentine’s Day special - a luxury afternoon tea for two, two top price tickets for the evening performance and interval drinks, plus the option to renew your vows at Evensong before the show and meet the cast during the interval. It's the perfect way to treat a loved one!

17 February | Black Magic - The Little Mix Show!

A highly energetic tribute show that follows in the footsteps of the award winning girl band, Little Mix. This iconic 5-star rated show has live vocals and is full of commercial pop-video choreography.

There are lots of added extras including dance competitions, free giveaways and even a meet & greet with the girls after

the show! The Little Mix Show features all of Little Mix’s chart topping hits including the most recent releases from the Glory Days album.

Where: Cresset Theatre, Bretton, Peterborough Tickets: £16 How to book: cresset.ticketsolve.co.uk

96 Out and About

22 February 7:30pm The Greatest Hits of Motown

27 February 7.30pm The Best of Queen

Now in its 18th successive year, this stunning 100% live show combines first class music with the slickest choreography and an amazing band, to deliver truly outstanding performances for the best Motown experience you will ever have! This show will have you Dancing on The Ceiling, with songs from legendary artists such as Lionel Richie, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Jackson Five and many more.

The Bohemians have been paying homage to the world’s most theatrical and dramatic Rock band, Queen, since 1996, and in that time have had a huge impact on audiences across the world. Front man and pianist, Rob Comber’s outrageous stage antics and personality makes him perfect to play an uncannily realistic ‘Freddie’ with just the right look and stage persona.

Where: The Key Theatre, Peterborough Tickets: £26.50 How to book: vivacity.org

The show features a selection of the most loved and iconic classics from across Queen’s entire back catalogue

creating a live stage show which really catches the essence of this most incredible British band.

Where: The Key Theatre, Peterborough Tickets: £22.00

How to book: vivacity.org

97

12-16 March 7.30pm | Peterborough Operatic and Dramatic Society Present The Producers All the hysteria and hilarity of Mel Brooks’ cult comedy film comes to the stage. A down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most

Only one thing goes wrong: the show is a smash hit! Packed with glittering dance routines, show stopping numbers and side-splitting fun, it’s going to be the most mischievous show in town.

notorious flop in history, cheating their

Where: The Key Theatre, Peterborough

‘little old lady’ backers out of millions of

Tickets: £18.00

dollars to put on the worst show in town.

How to book: vivacity.org

30 March 9.00am 5k Inflatables Ever tuned in to TV shows like Wipe Out and Ninja Warrior UK and wanted to give something like that a go? Well now is your chance at the East of England Arena and Events Centre – which for one day only, will become home to some of the largest and most exhilarating inflatable obstacles ever created! Pit your wits against 15 giant inflatable obstacles that will let you flip, bounce & boing your way around an incredibly fun course.

Where: East of England Arena and Events Centre, Peterborough How to book: ukrunningevents.co.uk

4 April 7.30pm | Luther The World’s premier show in

Luther Vandross tribute Harry

celebration of ‘The Velvet Voice’.

Cambridge and his 10 piece band.

Experience all the hits from Luther’s

Luther Vandross the legend lives on.

amazing career, culminating over 40 million album sales and 8 Grammy

Where: Cresset Theatre, Bretton,

Awards including many of the greatest

Peterborough

dance anthems and love songs ever

Tickets: £25.00

written. Fronted by international

How to book: cresset.ticketsolve.co.uk

98 Out and About 11 May | Men United in Song Following its phenomenal success over the last few years, Men United in Song is back, once again raising money for Prostate Cancer UK. The project will sign up 40 local men to rehearse over 10 weeks for a charity concert at the Cresset Theatre on Saturday 11 May. To date, the project has engaged hundreds of local men, raising many thousands of pounds for the charity, as well as inspiring similar projects across the country – a fantastic result!

Absolutely no previous experience is required to join, just a willingness to get involved and give it your best shot!

Where: Introduction sessions - John Mansfield Campus, Peterborough on Wednesday 27 February (7.30 - 9.30pm), Thursday 28 February (7.30 - 9.30pm) and Saturday 2 March (2 - 4pm). Rehearsals will be on Thursday evenings, 7.45pm - 9.45pm at the same venue. The Men United in Song concert will be at Peterborough’s Cresset Theatre at 7.30pm on Saturday 11 May. Register: Register: contact Jo on 01733 425194 or email menunited@peterboroughsings.org.uk

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8 June | Craig David

Global superstar Craig David will be bringing an arsenal of hits and his signature dynamic performance to his only full concert in Cambridgeshire in 2019.

He will be joined by international DJ Sigala who will be bringing a full live band set, following a smash hit performance from chart-topping artist and songwriter Becky Hill. And getting the crowd into the party mood will be the rising star DJ Nathan Dawe. With Craig David’s 7 Days, Walking Away, When the Bassline Drops, Nothing Like This, Heartline and I Know You, this is sure to be a great event!

Where: ABAX Stadium, Peterborough Tickets: from £29.50 How to book: theposhtickets.com | ticketmaster.co.uk