Niche Magazine Issue 11 by Cross Productions

November 15 / Issue 11

the

DINING ISSUE Christmas GIFT GUIDE TALK BUSINESS

COVER STORY MODA GRECO

#NicheBizAwards FASHION | BUSINESS | HEALTH | FOOD | SPORTS

Weekly cosmetic clinic. NUFFIELD HEALTH LEICESTER HOSPITAL If you are thinking about cosmetic surgery and would like to take the first step, come and meet one of our experts for a complimentary chat at our dedicated cosmetic clinic, open every week. Our Consultant Plastic Surgeons will go through everything with you - discussing your options, answering your questions and deciding what’s right for you. You will also have the opportunity to meet with a specially-trained cosmetic nurse and tour our state-of-the-art facilities. Appointments are also available at our cosmetic clinic for any non-surgical procedure you may need. Nuffield Health offer a range of cosmetic surgery procedures including, but not limited to:

Non-surgical procedures include:

• Breast augmentation

• Liposuction

• Acne treatment

• Pigmentation

• Eyelid surgery

• Rhinoplasty

• Hair removal

• Thread vein removal

• Facelift

• Tummy tuck

• Muscle injections

• Tissue filler injections

Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital Scraptoft Lane, Leicester LE5 1HY

0116 274 3755 leicester.enquiry@nuffieldhealth.com

* Initial consultation(s), diagnostic scans/tests and investigations required to establish a diagnosis are not part of your procedure price. ** Not including Private Patient Units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of your chosen Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. *** Where necessary, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required. Where a prosthesis is required for your procedure, this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s expected prosthesis lifetime. Clinically required indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of your condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of your procedure. The Nuffield Health Promise applies for patients paying for themselves and excludes fertility services.

NICHE | 02

Niche Team Editor Jenny Cross - 07815 899 574 jenny@crossproductions.co.uk Design Editor Clare Sommerfeld Design Andy Ward, Susan Holmes design@crossproductions.co.uk Feature Writers Sarah Bladen, Kerry Smith Head Honcho Photographer Tom Wren Operations Director Leanne Baker leanne@crossproductions.co.uk Marketing and Account Director Lee Parkin - 07711 043 901 lee@crossproductions.co.uk Fashion Editor Tania Hollingsworth - 07482 187 040 Account Manager Sally Smith - 07931 220 116 Account Manager Emily Jackson - 07944 116 816 Contributors Glynis Wright, The Miller Partnership, ER Recruitment, Primo IT, Torr Waterfield, SLM Builders, St Martins House, Lumbers, Dimblebee Catering Company, Soar Vally Press, Moda Greco, Abel, U Fit Studio, Beau Aesthetica, Curve, Leicester Racecourse, Leicester Riders, RDZ PR

Niche App Download for free!

Published by Cross Productions Ltd www.nichemagazine.co.uk info@crossproductions.co.uk Tel: 0116 271 2573 Distribution Media Matters Direct www.mediamattersdirect.co.uk

Social facebook.com/nichemagazineuk Twitter: @magazineniche

NICHE | 03

November / December

Contents 13.

62.

Runway Rocks

74.

Fabulous Food & Drink

Maiyango Tasting Room Maiyango celebrate 10th Birthday with new Tasting Room

86. Talk Business

40. Lumbers Leicestershireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most established jeweller relocates

44. SLM

42. Property

NICHE | 04

The future is newly built

144. Motoring

154.

182.

Sport

Wedding Belles

148. 170. Health & Beauty

Total Motion Total Motionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harry Hill road tests the new Jaguar XE

190. Care & Charity

156. Leicester Racecourse

138. #NicheBizAwards Support Local

Get ready for ladies day

206. Purely Prestigious Luxury travel within reach

NICHE | 05

E M I U D E D I C AT E D T O

Styling SINCE 1996

S A L O N

Jenny Cross jenny@crossproductions.co.uk

Well, it’s been a crazy couple of months since the last issue of Niche! For one thing, we hosted the Niche Business Awards over at the Athena in Leicester’s cultural quarter where we recognised a whole variety of regional businesses who really do go the extra mile. Our surprise category ‘Above and Beyond’ was deservingly won by Ian Guyler of Pedigree Filbert; highlighting the fact that Ian has gone out of his way to support both localised businesses and charities. Coordinating ‘The Gauntlet’ and raising over £70,000 for 10 local charities is seriously impressive work. With Leicester Racecourse back on board as the headline sponsor for next years awards we already have the venue, date, categories and all sponsors ready to announce! #watchthisspace We have been busy supporting lots of local launches including the Crab and Cow over in Leire, as well as organising an event to fall in as part of the Leicester Business Festival, we are so excited to see what this brings to our City. By the time this issue prints we will have also exhibited for another year at the Leicester Business Event with the Tigers giving away our must have Niche Travel Mugs - make sure you tweet us your pics with them! Speaking of the Tigers, over the past two months, we have been lucky enough to experience both the Tigers hospitality as well as watching a game from one of the executive boxes thanks to the UK’s largest privately owned provider of electronic security systems Abel; whose head office is right here in the heart of our city. I am a firm believer in stepping outside of your comfort zone, and I did just that in October in aid of Hope Against Cancer and Rainbows. I strutted my stuff on not one but two catwalks proudly dressed head to toe by Abiti on Francis Street. I have to say it was great fun and such a good time! I guess the final bit of news was we have become regional finalists for best start up business in the Forward Ladies annual awards. A huge achievement of which I am so proud of the amazing team and businesses we work with who have worked so hard to create each issue of Niche. As the clocks have moved back, and the nights are drawing in we look forward to the Barrie Stephen Annual Charity Halloween Ball, Celebrating Diwali and of course toasting Christmas and the New Year! Have a wonderful Christmas and we will be back January ready for all 2016 has to offer!

NICHE | 10

Christmas celebrations. Set Menu available between: 30th November - 23rd December Lunch 12pm - 3pm & Evenings 6pm - 10pm 3 course set menu £27.50 Join us at our Christmas Jazz Party Night Friday 11th December.

cinirestaurant.co.uk

Cini Restaurant 26 High Street Enderby, Leicester, LE19 4AG. Tel: 0116 286 3009 Fax: 0116 286 9012

Join us on New Years Eve. (Thursday 31st December.)

For a 1930’s inspired celebration. A refined evening embracing the glamour of the past. Celebrate the end of year 1930’s style, with friends and family. Period dress welcome. Dinner served from 8pm and celebrations will continue until the early hours of 2016! For parties of 8 or more a deposit will be required. For private parties and exclusive hire of the restaurant, contact the CINI Team. NICHE | 03

CARRYING THE MOST HANDBAG BRANDS IN LEICESTER A historic local store, packed with surprises. With an abundance of handbags, purses and

Cellini 6 Hotel St, City Centre,

wallets to choose from, we have the brands, styles

Leicester, LE1 5AW

and colours to please all ages. Pop in today to see

Tel: 0116 251 8612

our stunning new collection.

www.cellinionline.co.uk

FA S H I O N N I C H E

Ryan wears Bertoni Tweed Double Breasted Jacket £279 Olymp Luxor Shirt £59 BSH Ecru Jean £120 Brown Paradigma Suede Loafers £120 Dalaco Pheasant Cufflinks £20 Pocket Square £20 All from Quentin Bond

Ryan wears Dark Grey Bertoni Overcoat £225, Quentin Bond Navy Scotch Soda Slim Chino £105, Pilot

NICHE | 14

Jazzie wears Black & White Armani Coat £439 Armani J28 Skinny Jean £120 Orange Armani Fringe Top £179 Orange Armani Bag £199 All from Red

Ryan wears Black Neil Barrett Bomber £1000 Black Neil Barrett Jeans £289 Black Neil Barrett Shirt £335 Black Justin Reece Loafers £79 All from Pilot

Jazzie wears Black Forever Unique Rockstud Bondage Dress £299 Lulu Guiness Lipstick Clutch £350 Both from Pilot

NICHE | 17

Ryan wears Grey Column Check Suit £600, Quentin Bond Olymp Luxor Shirt £59, Quentin Bond Blue Vivienne Westwood Reptile Scale Tie £59, Pilot NICHE | 14

Runway Rocks

Ryan wears Navy Scotch Soda Blazer £230 Navy Scotch Soda Slim Chino £105 Navy Scotch Soda Shirt £95 All from Pilot

Jazzie wears Black Munthe Genuine Leather Skirt £289 Gold & Cream Munthe Silk Blouse £189 Both from Abiti

Jazzie wears Red Forever Unique Body Con Fishtail Dress £360 Lulu Guiness Lips Metal Framed Clutch £395 Both from Pilot NICHE | 15

Jazzie wears Brand 360 Skull Cashmere Cardigan £320 Waven Brush Cotton Jeans £70 Both from Abiti

Niche Magazine credits and gives special thanks to: Creative Direction & Photography by Tom Wren T 07818 421 118 W Creativebywren.co.uk Models: Ryan Danvers and Jazzie Joachim Quentin Bond Granby Street, Leicester LE1 1DH T 0116 255 6939 Pilot Clothing 58 High Street, Leicester LE1 5YP T 0116 262 8200 W Netclothing.net

Abiti Ladieswear Francis Street, Leicester LE2 2BE T 0116 270 4379 W Abiti-ladies.co.uk

Red Ladies Wear 4 Churchgate Mews, Loughborough LE11 1TZ T 01509 212 177

Hair by Giannhs Ballahls & Alix Galliard Indy Hairdressing 1-3 Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ T 0116 251 7170 W Indyhair.co.uk NICHE | 20

Make up by Lyndsey Wildgoose NY Beauti 1-3 Guidhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ T 0116 251 7170 W Nybeauti.co.uk We bring you a selection of fine fashion in these pages from some of the very best local boutiques and brands. Working hard to showcase what our fantastic region has to offer is not all glitz and glamour, but I’m sure you’ll agree our models exude just that. It was a real pleasure bringing this all together with the superb support of top hairdresser Indy and make-up artist NY Beauti. We hope this encourages you to try loving your local boutiques, there are some real gems on our high and back streets offering top range brands as well as some obscure and up and coming names to boot.

Lee Parkin & Tania Hollingsworth Niche Magazine T 07711 043 901 W Nichemagazine.co.uk

Images are owned and copyrighted by Creative by Wren for exclusive use with Niche Magazine.

Runway Rocks

Loughborough town Famed for big brass bells, books and boffins Loughborough is the borough township for the vale of Charnwood and the largest settlement outside of Leicester city. This market town boasts fully functioning bell foundry, John Taylor Bellfounder, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book publishers Ladybird and a top notch university renowned for its sporting prowess. Another draw for residents and visitors alike is the town market weekly on Thursday and Saturday with upto 125 traders selling everything from fresh fish, flowers and fashion.

cosmopolitan feel to the centre. Here we have gathered a great cross section of whats on offer for the shoppers amongst you, a hit list for your next visit. After some serious retail therapy you can refresh, recharge and relax in one of the lovely cafes or coffee shops too. Easy to get to by road or train with plenty of affordable parking, Loughborough really does have it all.

For more details visit Loughborough is also home to a tidy independent retail community, giving a great alternative to the large High Street stores and a

www.charnwood.gov.uk NICHE | 21

CarolineJames WINTER RANGES NOW IN STOCK 54 Churchgate, Loughborough LE11 1UE Tel (01509) 211377 www. caroline-james.co.uk Open Mon - Sat VISA-Mastercard-AMEX Basler, Crea Concept, Elisa Cavaletti, Faber, GeorgedĂŠ, Gerry Weber, Just White, Masai, Magic Jeans, Michele, Oska, Ronen Chen, Saint James NICHE | 22

Runway Rocks

RED

Armani Joseph Ribkoff Didier Parakian Bitte Kia Rand Sarah Pacini A Post Card From Brighton Capri Eva Tralala Charli Suzy D Jayley Fur Robell Rino & Pelle 360 Cashmere Twisted Muse Onelife Alpha Nu

Styling and Personal Service always available 4 Churchgate Mews, Loughborough 01509 212 177

Styling and Person 4 Churchgate Mews, Lou

NICHE | 23

8 Church Gate, Loughborough, LE11 1UD Telephone: 01509 210606 Email: info@luxe-shoes.co.uk

Win!

8-14 High Street, Leicester LE1 5YN A list of brands that we stock are... Irish Clothing 9-10 Churchgate, Loughborough, LE11 1UD Telephone: 01509 263327 e-mail:info@irishuk.com Etnies Joules Seasalt Warrior Animal Converse Joules Hunter O’Neill DVS Seasalt DC Levi’s PLUS a Great Jack & Jones Hunter Wrangler Selection of: Etnies Brakeburn Levi’s Dr Martens ConverseFox Wrangler Military Roxy DVS DrVans Martens Surplus Warrior Timberland DC Vans Clothing, Roamers Caterpillar Brakeburn Timberland Acessories, Magnum Quiksilver Fox Caterpillar and Footwear Military Surplus Animal Roxy Quiksilver Clothing, Acessories, O’Neill Off all clothing, footwear & accessoriesJack in store (Please bring voucher in store to redeem). Footwear & Jones

We stock...

10%

NICHE | 24

Achieve salon style results with Moda Greco’s amazing give away! Leicester’s favourite salon are giving you the chance to win the brand new limited edition GHD Artic Gold Styler worth £138! What’s more, they are offering a free heat protection spray to anyone when they purchase the exceptional styler. Be in with a chance of winning by sending your name and contact details to competitions@crossproductions.co.uk

Runway Rocks

Flap Tassel Bag £445.00

Brands include American Vintage Charli Samsoe& Samsoe Marie& Sixtine Rails Religion Munthe Twist & Tango Twisted Muse Becksondergaard

Bow Shopping Bag £195.00

Isle Jacobsen 360 Cashmere Round Jungle Croc Box £265.00

Duffy Ochre Hoss Intropia AND MANY MORE

www.Abiti-Ladieswear.co.uk 01162704379 / 07827909723 Facebook: Abiti Ladieswear 21 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 2BE NICHE | 25

Your salon.... for life In the heart of Leicester’s City Centre lies an exciting, forward thinking salon that has been part of the very fabric of our vibrant city culture for over 35 years. Rather like the people of Leicester themselves, Moda Greco is welcoming, friendly and down to earth and is at the forefront of fashionable, modern hair. Having been part of our city’s glam squad since the 1960s founder Pino Greco brought a touch of Italian flair and style to the heads of Leicester, an accomplishment which is still being achieved to this day. In the early 90s this salon found its permanent and current residence on the 1st floor of the Thomas Cook listed building on Gallowtree Gate and ever since then it has become a place that clients return to time and time again, simply because Moda Greco genuinely knows good hair and good relations. The ethos of the salon as a welcoming and energetic place which has created a relaxed, yet professional environment NICHE | 26

for everyone, as a result the atmosphere is never false. Moda Greco has products it can recommend and it carries many high end products such as ghd, Kerastase and Paul Mitchell, but this is never forced or pushed to clients and what a refreshing change that is. The talented team of stylists give an honest and professional opinion; they are truly passionate about giving clients styles that they love. Perhaps most importantly your stylist will always be keen to find a style that is completely you, with an honest approach they give clients hairstyles which work with their lifestyle as well as what suits and not simply a cut that is deemed the latest trend, the result is a hairstyle which you will love. This commitment to providing high quality from the very moment a stylist starts out as a Moda Greco apprentice is prevalent in all. Moda Greco boasts some very talented cutting edge stylists but it’s not really these things that

make us return as a good cut is what we expect; it’s the warmth and atmosphere, the stylist’s attitude to giving you a cut, colour or style which compliments you perfectly. Yet, above all it’s the salons’ authenticity which makes us go back to Moda Greco again and again. They are a salon which has stood the test of time by looking to the future of hairdressing whilst remaining true to their roots, never faltering in their quality of styling or their approach to relationships with clients. To visit is to find your salon for life.

www.modagrecoc.co.uk 0116 262 9201 Moda Greco Hair Designers 3-5 Gallowtree Gate Leicester LE1 5AD

Tiger Print Shawl Wrap £45 www.betty-brown.com

Larger Chain Leather Python bag £110 www.abiti-ladies.co.uk

Lu Lu Guinness Perspects Clutch £245 Available from Pilot, Leicester www.netclothing.co.uk

Leopard print scarf £22 Betty brown 14 Francis St info@betty-brown.com

Festive Gift Guide Lu Lu Guinness Perspects Lipstick Key Ring £45 Available from Pilot, Leicester www.netclothing.co.uk

Ladies Omega Constellation Co-Axial Calibre watch £7,360 Available from Lumbers, Leicester www.lumbers.co.uk

Charlie Rye Cashmere Poncho £195 Available from www.abiti-ladies.co.uk

Moschino Bowler Bag Black £179 Available from Pilot, Leicester www.netclothing.co.uk NICHE NICHE || 28 14

Runway Rocks

BROWNS Lingerie & Beachwear Lingerie Swimwear Designer Brands Dressing Gowns Nightwear Gift Vouchers T: 0116 2707188 35 Francis St Stoneygate Leicester LE2 2BE

www.justsloggi.co.uk Tel: 01332 811732 @justsloggi

www. BrownsLingerie.com

We are an independent boutique that’s passionate about shoes. Brands include: Sam Edelman Ash Elia B Alpe Toni Pons

Unisa Hogl Emu Vic Matie

0116 270 5260 13 Francis Street Stoneygate Leicester LE2 2BE

Business Hours: Monday – 10am–5pm Tuesday – Closed Wednesday – 10am-5.30pm Thursday – 10am-5.30pm Friday – 10am-5.30pm Saturday – 10am-5.00pm Sunday – Closed

Specialising in designing jewellery, that is handmade on site. We can also remodel your existing jewellery and all our diamonds are certified from GIA and IGI.

4 Allandale road, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 2DA enquiries@wilkinsongoldsmiths.co.uk www.wilkinsongoldsmiths.co.uk 01162705375

NICHE | 29

Luscious Lingerie

Fantasie Mae Black Bra £45 Brief £20 Ornate 18ct White Gold Diamond collection: Necklace £19,950 (10.18cts) Earrings £6,950 (3.38cts) Ring £4,500 (1.98 cts) Bangle £10,765 (4.51 cts)

NICHE | 30

Runway Rocks

Stella McCartney Penny Buzzing Baby Pink Bra £52 Brief £30

Stella McCartney Julia Stargazing Blue/Black Lace Bra £65 Brief £35

Browns Lingerie www.brownslingerie.com Lumbers Jewellers www.lumbers.co.uk Indy Hair www.indyhair.co.uk Silk Powder www.silkpowder.co.uk Tom Wren www.creativebywren.co.uk

18ct White Gold Diamond & Tanzanite collection: Necklace £6,950 Earrings £12,950 Ring £4,200 Bangle £5,995

Pleasure State Pink Trixie Lou Baby doll £60 Shorts £45

NICHE | 31

Indy - Niche 2:Layout 1 15/10/2015 10:52 Page 1

We would

Love

to wish our

clients a wonderful Christmas

INDY #WORDOFMOUTH 1-3 Guildhall Lane • Leicester • LE1 5FQ 0116 251 7170 Twitter - @Indy_Hair Instagram - @indyhairdressing www.indyhair.co.uk

Luxury beauty from Elemis at Femi...

Dynamic Resurfacing Gel Mask 50ml £49.50 As part of the ELEMIS Anti-Ageing Resurfacing Programme, this revolutionary gel mask helps refine and smooth the skin surface. Skin feels instantly smoother, shine free and more radiant. NICHE | 32

SOS Emergency Frangipani Monoi Cream 50ml Body Oil 100ml £52.50 £34.00 This intensive daily This truly exotic oil is moisturiser has been rapidly absorbed providing formulated to soothe superior moisturisation for sensitive, dry, blemish prone dry, parched or mature skin. skin while replenishing skin’s hydration balance.

Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm 105g £39.50 This powerful, deep cleansing balm dissolves make-up, daily grime and pollutants. Skin is intensely cleansed, nourished and renewed for a glowing complexion.

Based in the heart of Leicester, Femi Health and Beauty is an award winning salon with 12 treatment rooms spread over three floors. Offering a full range of treatments including beauty, grooming and pampering services using luxury products including Decleor, Carita, Jessica, PhD, Artist of Make Up and Elemis, the salon creates a haven for their customers, allowing ,them to escape from their daily stresses. Femi Health and Beauty has a highly trained and experienced team proving testament to their reputation as a premier salon and treatment destination. The salon, which has been in business for 26 years offers its customers a luxurious retreat and premium spa experience.

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

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

/Femibeautyleics

@femi_beauty

WARNING Party Goers: Did you know over two-thirds of women wear a party dress in a colour that makes them look tired, stressed and even ill? Before you buy your outfit for that upcoming party, you really need to stop and consider the colour. Yes there is the dilemma of ‘does my bum look big in this’ but the question ‘does this colour suit me’ should be equally important. Get it wrong and you look washed out and ordinary. Get it right and you’ll look amazing.‘Wow Colours’ are something style expert, Mélanie Taylor believes to be essential when creating a style to emphasise all your best bits. She met with Jenny, our Director here at Niche, for a colour consultation. Mélanie understands the science behind colour and how it can affect the way we look. The right colours for our skin tone will make us feel poised and powerful, even slimmer. Wrong colours will make us look older and worn-out. We’ve all been there; in an outfit we know isn’t flattering, yet we don’t know why.Jenny said: “As a busy mum of three young children, sometimes I feel a bit lost so wanted someone to tell me what worked and what didn’t. ”After finding 36 colour swatches that suited Jenny, with olive green and chestnut being a WOW, she finds shopping much easier. “I have totally changed my make up so I use brown eye liner and mascara now and am looking at totally different colours when I am shopping for clothes and even noticed some extra compliments,” she added. The Colour Consultant explained: “All the colours in the universe fall into four pigment bases, including the hue of our skin. Some of them will complement our skin tones and some can do the opposite.” “We are subconsciously attracted to harmony so when colours work well together on us we instantly become more attractive,” she said. Jenny’s new found confidence has come from her Wow Colours and Mélanie encourages everyone (yes -men too) to learn their WOW colours.

This colour dress is a wow colour for our editor Jenny

Get 7 FREE tips on how to choose your best colours for a party dress PLUS a £10 voucher towards a colour consultation. Go to https://houseofcolourleicester.leadpages.co/colour-tips or phone 07753 804 476

Fashion & Textiles Hobbyist Courses We offer fashion and textiles hobbyist courses for all ages. Whether you are new to textiles or experienced we have great courses that bring out the designer and maker in you. Sewing Bee is an opportunity to ‘make and mend’ whilst Printing Bee enbles you to create a product for a loved one or a treat for yourself. We provide all materials, Amongst our many courses we deliver bunting and cushion making, T-shirt and mug printing, not to be missed for creating a personalised festive gift. Come and have fun wth friends and enjoy the company of new people with similar interests to you. Develop your textiles skills for life in Leicester’s iconic Silver Arcade, home of the LFTA.

3rd Floor The Silver Arcade Silver Street Leicester LE1 5FA NICHE | 34

@TheLFTA facebook.com/LFTA

Book online at or call us on

www.lfta.co.uk 01163 44 00 43

Runway Rocks

HAIR & BEAUTY Specialists in make up, weddings and wor kshops

Have you got what it takes to be the face of Donovan Goode?...Enter our competition to find out!

We are looking for male and female models between the age of 16-30 years old, to enter our exciting competition to win a full makeover and photo shoot. A fantastic opportunity to get yourselves noticed on social media and promotional Salon events.

The Competition will be judged by Aspire model management. To be in with a chance to win send us your head shots. See our Facebook/website for details of how to enter.

The Competition will be judged by Aspire model management. To be in with a chance to win send us your head shots.

Closing date for entry photos 21st December Closing date for entry photos Finals in January 2016 30th November FinalsLook...from in January team 2016 Donovan Good

See our Facebook/website for details of how to enter.

Good Look...from teamGoode! Donovan Goode! te for entry photos

Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty 29 Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester. LE8 4DW. 0116 2776666 www.donovangoode.co.uk follow us on facebook, twitter, pinterest and instagram NICHE | 35

Big brand in the borough Balmain is a haute couture fashion house that was founded by Pierre Balmain, born in 1914 in France. His father owned a drapery business and his mother and sister owned a fashion boutique where he often worked after his father’s death in 1921. He always had a love of fashion and an eye for design. The brand has had an on off love affair with the stars and bright lights, at the minute the affair is very much on, with a high street collection launched recently by H&M. Up and coming Leicester label boutique Her Business Fashion has secured pieces from the Balmain Ready To Wear Fall 15 range, as pictured modelled here by our very own Ellie Charles.

The boutique will be bursting open its doors very soon, boasting Moncler, Commes des Garcons, Off White as well as the featured Balmain togs. Keep your eyes peeled to not miss a thing at www.herbusinessfashion.com

H ER B U S I NE S S

Balmain Vest Shirt £150 Balmain Biker Jeans £755 Balmain Jacket £1270 all available from Her Business Fashion

FASHION

People of Leicester, listen up! Get ready for a brand new concept arriving in the city centre! From the fabulous Barrie Stephen Hair comes an exciting innovation about to hit the cool and quirky Loseby Lane…and we’ve taken a sneak peek through the keyhole! The Barrie Stephen brand has been bringing red carpet hairdressing to Leicestershire for 20 years, and this new launch is set to be the most glamourous yet! All you fabulous fashionistas who want to stay ahead of the trends and keep yourselves groomed and gorgeous at all times are in for a treat – Leicester’s FIRST EVER concept salon will be the place to go before a night out, a lunchtime preen or just for a bit of last minute pampering! We’ll be keeping you updated, but in the meantime keep Barrie Stephen’s number on your speed dial and fast track your way to fabulous…

Barrie Stephen Hair www.barriestephenhair.co.uk T: 0844 445 2888 NICHE | 36

Runway Rocks

Front cover worthy with Moda Greco Moda Greco Hair Salon has all the innovative hair design skills you need for this festive party season. The talented team at Moda created the beautiful style which graces our front cover this issue and with their expertise, they can help you to look as equally glam for the party season ahead.

Greco created our front cover curls with party glamour in mind. Inspired by the face of the model, the stylist fashioned a period inspired chic Charleston look. These glossy locks were shaped using a mini GHD stylers to create curls, which were then set with pins. The hair was dressed out, preserving the definition of the curl to add body, movement and shape to the models hair. Once set, the shiny twists and waves were unleashed and held with the GHD Curl Hold Spray.

Get the look! Using high end professional products and colouring techniques as well as the latest methods in cutting and styling, you can go from drab to fab and be party ready in no time after a relaxing and well deserved pamper session at Leicester’s favourite salon. Choose a full re-style and fresh colour, hair extensions or simply a style for that special night out.

Experience True Luxury Award winning luxury salon, Femi Health & Beauty, invite you to experience their relaxation treatment spa for exclusive pampering using professional We have won regional Aroma Gold salon for over 18years. Inspirational Decleor salon 2012. National Decleor Salonfor 2013 & that this year havesuperstar just won Decleor P latinumfeel. salon. ranges Proud to have won regional award www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk Aroma Gold & Platinum as well as National Salon of the year, Femi is expanding their range and are now stocking the amazing British skincare products by Elemis. As the official salon for Carita Skin, Face and Body, one of the most lavish and elite beauty brands worldwide, they provide only the best high-quality treatments for men and women.

The salon, which has been in business for 26 years offers its customers a luxurious retreat and premium spa experience.

60 Highcross Street | Leicester | LE1 4NN | T: 0116 253 2393 Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am - 6pm

/FemiHealthandBeauty

/Femibeautyleics

@femi_beauty

Femi use a range of specialist products and are one of the leading Decleor salons that combines nature with science for optimum results. Glow from within after a top of the range Jessica hands and feet treatment and undergo a fabulous transformation with Artist make-up by the amazingly talented celebrity make-up artist, Zukreat. Or get glowing instantly with a Fake Bake spray tan performed by a beauty expert of the Femi team. www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk

Glam hair and make-up made easy How good would it be to get your hair and make-up done to a professional standard as you go out this festive party season? Pretty good we think! However, it’s not always practical to get to the salon is it? What if you could learn how to do your own hair and makeup just like the professionals? Now you can with the experts at Donovan Goode ready and waiting with their hair and make-up workshops. With master classes in how to plait and twist, create volume or the ever mysterious professional blow dry techniques, you can learn to create vintage waves using wands and straighteners and which products to suit. Or, if you really want the full class, try the one tailor made for you! Learn from the experts how to apply your make-up like a professional and get lots of tips and tricks along the way. Learning techniques in a relaxed, friendly environment you’ll be a pro in no time; making Christmas party prepping the pleasure that it ought to be. Visit www.donovangoode.co.uk to find out more.

Moda Greco Hair Designers 3-5 Gallowtree Gate Leicester LE1 5AD Tel: 01162629201

NICHE | 37

b ang —o lufs e n.co m

Bertoni Bladens 6th sense Bruno St Helaire Goodwin Smith Shoes Profuomo Shirts John Whites Shoes Life & Heritage Lacuzzo Shoes Corgi Socks

121 Granby Street, Leicester LE1 6FD

www.quentinbond.co.uk

NICHE | 38

BeoLab 90 is our most advanced loudspeaker to date featuring groundbreaking new technologies. 15 ALLENDALE ROAD – LEICESTER

LE22DA – 0116 274 5858

Burleighs Signature London Dry Gin – 40% ABV £32.50 www.burleighsgin.com

Treat your Guy to a Gift Voucher from Evolution Man, Allandale Road, Leicester www.evoman.co.uk

Javes & Overend Citra Beard Oil £14.95 Available from Mewies & Indy Quorn 01509 767 006

Festive Gift Guide Paul Smith Stripe Billfold Wallet Brown £140 Available from Pilot, Leicester www.netclothing.co.uk

Paul Smith Mini Tipped Black Belt £115 Available from Pilot, Leicester www.netclothing.co.uk

primo gift and discription Triumph X Barbour Jacket £279 Available from Pilot High Street, Leicester www.netclothing.co.uk NICHE | 14

Seamaster Omega 300 Seamaster ‘Spectre’ 300 limited ‘Spectre’ edition £4785 Limited edition to 5,007 Available from Lumbers, Leicester www.lumbers.co.uk NICHE | 39

Founded in 1881, Lumbers, Leicester’s most established jewellers has made several relocations across the city centre, however none of which have been more prominent than to the new premises on the High Street. Originally the store was founded in Loseby Lane just 200 yards from the new location, before two moves on Granby Street and then two more sites more recently on Market Street - that most will remember. With its long standing establishment within the county, the jewellery store has been an iconic shop in Leicester for generations, which makes the re-location to the old Dominoes toy store, another recognisable Leicester-based retailer, quite timely. A seven-figure capital investment was injected into the project to develop the 16,000q ft space into an elegant, luxury emporium for Lumbers current jewellery offering and watches, further enhanced with additional ranges from internationally acclaimed brands. Last month, Lumbers re-opened its doors not only to the county, but to the country, as it now boasts to be the largest jewellery shop in the UK. With this, a number of prestigious industry names have joined the brand family that the retailer has to offer to its clientele. This includes the exciting arrival of Omega watches, which is the first new account the important watch brand has opened within the UK in the last seven years. The 007, James Bond, brand have supported Lumbers with the largest Omega boutique in the City along with an in depth choice of stock that will really showcase this prestigious brand in the best manner. In addition to this, influential Parmigiani Fleurier, manufacturers to Bugatti and instrumental in fine Swiss watch making, have joined single-hand watch makers MeisterSinger and Severn Friday. Alongside own branded sales areas for Breguet, Chopard, Hublot, Tag Heuer and Breitling this has provided an expanded horological department to compare with any nationwide.

Founded in 1881, Lumbers, Leicester’s most established jewellers has made several relocations across the city centre, however none of which have been more prominent than to the new premises on the High Street. Originally the store was founded in Loseby Lane just 200 yards from the new location, before two moves on Granby Street and then two more sites more recently on Market Street - that most will remember. With its long standing establishment within the county, the jewellery store has been an iconic shop in Leicester for generations, which makes the re-location to the old Dominoes toy store, another recognisable Leicester-based retailer, quite timely. A seven-figure capital investment was injected into the project to develop the 16,000q ft space into an elegant, luxury emporium for Lumbers current jewellery offering and watches, further enhanced with additional ranges from internationally acclaimed brands. Last month, Lumbers re-opened its doors not only to the county, but to the country, as it now boasts to be the largest jewellery shop in the UK. With this, a number of prestigious industry names have joined the brand family that the retailer has to offer to its clientele. This includes the exciting arrival of Omega watches, which is the first new account the important watch brand has opened within the UK in the last seven years. The 007, James Bond, brand have supported Lumbers with the largest Omega boutique in the City along with an in depth choice of stock that will really showcase this prestigious brand in the best manner. In addition to this, influential Parmigiani Fleurier , manufacturers to Bugatti and instrumental in fine Swims watch making, have joined single-hand watch makers MeisterSinger and Severn Friday. Alongside own branded sales areas for Breguet, Chopard, Hublot, Tag Heuer and Breitling this

NICHE | 40

The jewellery department has also grown, so alongside Chopard and Gucci, Lumbers is now stocking exclusive European styling from Gian Franco Bigli, Rachel Galley and most impressively, Georg Jensen. These further enhance the regions widest choice of jewellery including the established Lumbers diamond ranges, many of which are handmade on the premises. And for those couples who are looking for special wedding bands Lumbers are proud to announce that Brown & Newirth have opened their first bespoke wedding ring boutique in the world. This stylish area gives privacy and a peaceful surrounding to ensure that you obtain the best quality, best choice and best service for the most important purchase of your married life! It is important to point out the Leicester-based family-businesses’ accolades in the industry with their portfolio of existing esteemed brands. Lumbers was the top UK Independent Retailer 2014 of both Breitling and Chopard watches. In addition to these successes, Lumbers was acclaimed as the number one retailer of Breguet watches in Europe - an outstanding achievement for a Leicester based company. This was recognised by the Leicester Business community when Lumbers deservedly won multiple awards earlier this year in the Leicester Business Awards. Lumbers are especially proud of the new gift-department. For many of you who remember Dominoes - the gift department has been created in the room ‘up the steep ramp’ - a feature of the old Dominoes along with the lift that has been retained for the authenticity of the shop! With many luxury brands vying for inclusion, the buyers of Lumbers have created a luxury feel akin to shopping in the most

Runway Rocks

luxurious of venues. Premium accessory brand, Aspinal of London have created their own boutique corner with personalisation of your Aspinal purchase while you wait. This is the first of its type in the jewellery industry. They have been joined by contemporary silver home-ware brand, Georg Jensen and world-renowned glass-maker Lalique. Mont Blanc have expanded their offering to a stylish showcase exhibiting pens, wallets, watches, bags and many other stunning gifts. Swiss jeweller and watchmaker, Chopard, have added a second boutique within Lumbers allowing the Leicester retailer to sell their beautiful handbags, sunglasses and giftware. Equally excitingly as part of Lumbers expansion is the first-floor, which houses a VIP client area complete with a Champagne bar and full VIP lounge. This area will be used as an entertainment area and will continue with some of the most desirable invitation only events in the County. A full catering kitchen has been installed and a new collaboration between Lumbers, Finesse Hospitality and Tigers Legend, Matt Poole, will see an expansion to these successful evenings. The Champagne bar and VIP bathrooms have been designed and installed by Plug Interiors, another Leicester-based family business. Dominic is especially grateful to Rob & Fran Fothergill for this new partnership as Lumbers get the use of a stunning new set of facilities

and Plug have a new showroom open to the most desirable of client lists! The instigating factor of this move was always the long term sustainability of the Lumbers brand within Leicester. Dominicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concern to the continuing demise of Market Street and the ever expanding success of Highcross drove the project to fulfilment. His driving ambition to deliver a secure family business for his son, Freddie, and future generations has given Leicester a store that we can be truly proud of. Certainly having seen this stunning emporium, there is no doubt Freddie and future generations of the Gomersall family have a very bright future.

62 - 66 High Street, Leicester, LE1 5YP www.lumbers.co.uk

info@lumbers.co.uk

0116 255 1233

NICHE | 41

Property Pages

Photo thanks to Natural Structures

NICHE | 42

#FindYourNiche

Hot Property

With your bespoke kitchen - there should be no room for showrooms

The Sessions that ‘All Schools Should Run’

Kitchen designs created in soulless showrooms can never hope to match one created with you in the heart of your own home.

Hinckley & Rugby Building Society funded two days of finance and employability lessons at John Cleveland College in Hinckley by the education charity WizeUp.

Twenty-five years working in the industry means we are knowledgeable of materials, colours, styles and gadgets that are trending but also, what is achievable for you. That is why we decided to abandon the showroom approach and instead, commit to meeting each and every customer in their own homes. We are able to keep our overheads down and reflect this with our prices but also, it keeps us incredibly accountable to quality as we are dependent upon our clients for their goodwill and recommendation. This ensures we stay focused on service and attention to detail and ensure we have crafted to perfection for each and every customer. We care about delivering your vision, so we install our own projects with our team of qualified and skilled tradesmen, selecting quality materials, appliances and accessories to create a modern or classical style. In this ever changing age of technology it is difficult to know where to start. Get in touch with Steve Hills, to discuss your next project on 07812 389 869 or visit www.stevehillsdesign.co.uk to discover how we can transform the heart of your home together.

WizeUp, a not-for-profit group of financial education experts, was back for its third visit to the school thanks to sponsorship from Hinckley & Rugby. More than 120 students from Year 12 learned about money matters and applying for jobs. WizeUp’s Ed Flack spent two days tackling financial good health and the skills employers are looking for, including techniques for doing well in interviews. Janet Paterson, Head of Post 16 at John Cleveland College, said: “It was hugely popular with the students. A number of them said all schools should run these sessions as they are so useful. “The support from Hinckley & Rugby is a fantastic partnership and we really do appreciate it. Ed is so positive and supportive, and offers to go on helping by checking CVs.” Hinckley & Rugby Building Society assistant office manager, Claire Spriggs, said: “As a local building society we would like all local school leavers to be financially healthy as they gain their independence. We’re very happy that we could bring Ed back to John Cleveland with his great advice.” www.hrbs.co.uk

NICHE | 43

The future is newly built New-build properties are on the rise, whether you are a property developer investing in a number of new build properties or an individual thinking of building your dream home, there are countless reasons why building from scratch is beneficial. SLM Builders are certainly one of those reasons and as one of the Midland’s leading building contractors, they are an obvious choice for those looking to build from the ground up.

Having established a reputation since 2003 built on the foundations of high-quality workmanship, committed customer relations and an ability to work to tight deadlines, it’s no wonder that SLM Builders are the contractors so many are NICHE | 44

turning to for their new-build visions. Their attitude and skill level is of the same high quality, whether they are completing an extension on a residential property or a portfolio of new-builds for major property developers, and it’s this, combined with their experience and word of mouth reputation, which makes so many developers and individuals turn to them to fulfil their new-build plans. So, why all the fuss for new build properties anyway? Cost One of the most important benefits of new-builds are their cost effectiveness. Many newbuild developers offer first-time buyer incentives and they save you money in the long term too. Boasting efficient building materials at 60% fewer carbon monoxide levels as well as having greater insulation and efficiency, the newbuild home saves owners hundreds of pounds a year against their utility bills. New- builds are also a considerable, solid investment for those planning to move home in the near future as they hold their value extremely well. New-builds are increasing in popularity for the home owner and they are sought

after so as a developer or private home owner a new build is always a sound investment. Property Maintenance Whilst old properties often provide the character, they also often come with an awful lot of maintenance baggage too. The upkeep of a new property is simple, and you can move in straight away, no DIY needed. When you buy a newbuild you automatically receive a 10-year warranty on the property offered by developers through organisations such as the National Housebuilding Council. With a newbuild gone is the concern that a huge home maintenance cost could be lurking around the corner. Your Specifications If you are building your own home, you can of course have all the specifications your heart desires, but you can also have a say in your new-build if it’s being created by a developer with many enabling home purchasers to pick and choose variants on fixtures and fittings before completion helping you create a home that you will love. So, now we have explored the benefits of a new-build, the next question is, why should you choose

Hot Property

SLM to do the job either as a developer or as an individual home owner? Well, with so many happy customers willing to sing their praises you can take their word for it too; Commercial Client ‘We always try and contract out locally, yet wanted to work with the best in the business for this project. SLM were able to guarantee us the quality we needed within our timescale and on budget, I approached SLM as they came recommended by Champions after completing a project with them. I am happy to say they have exceeded in the quality of their work and to date have met each goal that had been set. I would highly recommend them. They have been a pleasure to work with and highly professional in both our dealings and their workmanship.’

Their attitude and skill level is of the same high quality whether they are completing an extension on a residential property or a portfolio of new builds for major property developers

clean, safe and secure manner, throughout the contract I was fully informed of progress and following stages. Due to their professional manner, they made what could have been a stress full time an enjoyable experience. I for one would not hesitate in recommending SLM for any type of building work.’ Jason Mullaney So, what are you waiting for? Find out more:

Dominic at Lumbers Jewellers Residential Client ‘We all were shocked at how quick the extension was completed by SLM and not only was the finished project completed to such a high standard but all staff on site conducted their work with consideration to all the family members and visitors to the property. Not only did they work to the given instructions but also considered our needs too. Every single day the site was left in a

37 Melrose Street Leicester LE4 6FD 0116 276 5333 0116 261 1919 info@slmbuilders.co.uk

www.slmbuilders.co.uk 0116 276 5333

NICHE | 45

It’s all in the name — Yes, the colder darker days and nights are here and the summer clothes are under lock and key but something many of us overlook whilst wrapping up is the effect the winter can have on the safety of our homes and businesses.

Not only intruders; did you know circa 100 fires a year are caused by those oh-so-cosy electric blankets and on average there are 7,600 chimney fires a year.

Statistics suggest that under the cover of darkness, the winter sees a 20 per cent increase in home burglaries during the winter months, with the average cost of a winter burglary coming to £1,746.

Home is where the heart is... Nothing is better than relaxing in front of the fire come winter and this year could be even more relaxing, knowing that your home is safe and secure.

NICHE | 46

Abel have been operating in the security industry for the past 50 years, working with both commercial and residential property owners to protect and secure their premises with smoke, fire and intruder alarms and they are the experts should you need to service, update or fit systems to protect your homes, businesses and even your lives.

With the use of an effective alarm system, you can be confident that no matter how much heating or cooking your home is subjected to in the winter evenings, you will be alerted to anything out of the ordinary and able to ensure a small incident doesn’t turn into a home disaster. Abel are renowned for their intuition and personal service, tailoring systems which suit any home or situation. Through their in-depth knowledge on the design and installation of fire systems including heat and smoke detection and flame detection systems, they can tailor your system to provide automatic door and ventilation controls, voice evacuation or visual warning systems and even fixed gaseous

Hot Property

fire extinguishing systems; for affordable, cutting-edge safety, right where you need it. Of course, you may be thinking “I won’t be home this winter” and you’re planning a trip to warmer climates. If so, we’re jealous, but you want to be sure that when you return your home has been protected whilst you are away and Abel can assist with an extensive range of intruder systems, which can be further integrated with CCTV and your fire alarms. They ensure every system they design is suited to you and the way you and your home work. The systems are easy to use and can have added features such as onetouch operation or notifications to your mobile phone when the system is opened or closed or even flood detection if you’re situated in a flood risk area, so you can act effectively and immediately to minimise risk and reduce damage. Alarm systems are not as cumbersome as they once were and Abel are setting the industry’s standards with their technology. This includes wire free systems giving you the flexibility to add to your system later and for listed buildings or interiors where cabling is a problem they are an ideal solution, meaning you don’t have to compromise on safety or aesthetics. From their UK based Communication and Monitoring Centre (CMC), their fully trained and licensed staff can watch over your home 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; resetting your alarm remotely or dispatching their 24-hour field engineers so that wherever you may be, your home is just as you left it. A favourite with the rich and famous, their CCTV is

complemented by the Remote Video Receiving Centre (RVRC), compliant with BS 5979 Cat. 2 – the highest accreditation for CCTV remote monitoring. A detectoractivated monitored CCTV system allows any activity to be transmitted straight through to the RVRC, where licensed controllers can take any action needed to maintain the security of your home, from issuing a warning to calling the police. Abel explained, “CCTV on its own simply views and records crime. When combined with a professionally delivered remote monitoring service, the effectiveness of the CCTV system is enhanced by providing all the benefits of a manned, on-site presence at a fraction of the cost.” And, if you want the ultimate control (and some serious luxury) have a look into their intelligent automation (online or in Niche issue 10) and you could have control of literally everything from lighting, heating, security, music or TV right in the palm of your hands – no need to come home to a cold, dark house anymore, or even wake up to one, you can get everything ready from the comfort of your bed! This winter there really is no reason to get the blues, you can be safe, secure and snug knowing that you have the systems your home needs and the comforts you deserve.

For more information visit www.abelalarm.co.uk or call 08448 00 22 77 to speak with one of their experienced team.

Enjoy the technology of tomorrow, today. NICHE | 47

Hot Property Hot Property

Greymetal Oregon 6W Contemporary Wood Burning & Multi-fuel Stove £799 “Simply gorgeous modern design which still looks cosy and inviting. Perfect for any contemporary home.”

Home Is Where the Hearth Is Christmas is coming and our thoughts turn to snuggling up in front of a roaring open fire... ...maybe a tot of whiskey in hand, mince pie, good book... or perhaps that’s just me! Not everyone is lucky enough to be able to have an open fire, so why not invest in a gorgeous modern wood-burning stove? They are increasingly efficient and much less messy than a traditional fireplace. Plus they keep your home warm and cuddly well into those dark winter nights.

NICHE | 50

To improve our relaxing fireside experience, why not take the time to overhaul your sofa too. Worn-out seats can cause back pain, not what you need with the festive season upon us. Now why not treat man’s best friend to a smart new bed to enjoy too? Our pets deserve a comfy seat of their own as well. Up the ante in your dining room and get it ready for the big day. New dining chairs can make a room feel brand new – plus they’ll be super comfy for those extra long meals. Lastly, keep the home smelling fresh and welcoming with some lovely new scented candles and dif- fusers. You and your guests will never want to leave! Merry Christmas Everybody...

Samantha x

Hot Property

Darlings of Chelsea Ashdown Corner Sofa From £1359 “Stunning corner sofa which cries out for you to just jump in and snuggle up!”

Luxurious Dog Beds Sandringham Faux Leather Dog Bed £473.99 “I love everything Eichholtz and this is no exception: simple, architectural and so different and stylish, will add a classy elegance to any room.” Made Flynn Dining Chair £139 “Beautiful upholstered dining chair, super comfy and oh-so-elegant.” Mint Velvet Hyyge Candle &Diffuser Set £35 “Notes of geranium & lavender with neroli, rose and cedar- wood. Divine! Perfect as a gift or to keep yourself...”hotpicks “8m of connectable clear cable fairy lights perfect for creating a magical setting, both indoors and out.” www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks

NICHE | 51

Narborough Hall The home of Christmas

The Ancient Exterior of Narborough Hall hides a truly 21st Century Shopping Experience. Whether you’re after a traditional festive Christmas or something a little different, Narborough Hall has the solution with a whole room dedicated to the ‘Magic of Christmas’. Find the answers to all your present problems too with our inspiring selection of original gifts; for her, for him, for little ones, for the homeyou'll ﬁnd it all at Narborough Hall. We look forward to welcoming you to a new shopping experience…

Narborough Hall, Coventry Road, Narborough, LE192GD Only 2 miles from Fosse Park just off the B4114 Open Monday-Saturday 9am -530pm, Sunday 10am-5pm www.narboroughhall.co.uk

NICHE | 52

Hot Property

It’s the element of surprise that makes customers return to Narborough Hall over and over again. When you enter the shop, based in an Elizabethan manor house in the village of Narborough, South Leicestershire, you’re never quite sure what you’ll find. In this treasure trove you can wander through four large rooms browsing a carefully selected range of cards, gifts, home accessories, fashion and jewellery. Since opening in 1992, Narborough Hall’s philosophy has always been based on a love of beautiful things and the pleasure of sharing those things with their customers. With a passion for solving even the most awkward present buying challenge, the friendly assistants will guide you if you want them to or let you browse in perfect peace. There’s a good mix of the classic and the quirky – you’ll find delicate silver jewellery, pretty trinkets and keepsakes contrasting with the colourful Bomb Cosmetics and retro humour of the Bright Side. This season, the newly launched boutique brand Katie Loxton joins the range alongside hundreds of other exciting new products. Narborough Hall’s product selection is carefully crafted to cover your every present buying niche; beautiful accessories for the home, original and distinctive men’s gifts, toys and room accessories for children, special keepsakes for newborns and christenings and must-have women’s dresses, bags, scarves and jewellery. With winter fast approaching, Narborough Hall officially opened it’s Christmas Room on Saturday 17th October. Soak up the festive atmosphere as you browse and enjoy a spot of retail therapy. Buyer Sophie comments ‘We absolutely love Christmas, which is lucky as we’ve been working on this year’s Christmas shop since January! This year is our best collection yet, we’ve put a lot of effort into hand picking distinctive Christmas products that you can’t find just anywhere, these are decorations to treasure year after year.’ Partner Simon continues ‘For the last month we’ve been in full festive

mode, decorating and displaying the Christmas room to make it more spectacular than ever. We had over 2,000 customers through the doors during our previews last year, and we’re well prepared for the same this year.’ Prepare for the festive season ahead with Sophie’s pick of 2015’s biggest trends. Northern Lights From twinkling light chains wrapped around the tree to lightup garlands for the mantelpiece or statement pieces for the wall, lights always bring mystery and atmosphere to the dark winter evenings and this year’s collection is full of fabulous new designs. Lustrous Metallics All kinds of metallic are set to be even bigger this season, the warmth of copper and rose gold contrast beautifully with silver and mercury glass. Reflecting candle light beautifully, metallics create an opulent festive glow for the most sophisticated of homes this season. Fireside Christmas If it’s a cosy Christmas season you’re after, then this is the look for you. Easy homespun touches in soft warm reds and natural hues create a welcoming glow and enticing hessian sacks bulging with gifts sit beside the fireplace. Nordic Noel The influence of all things Scandinavian is huge with ice blues, snow white and subtle taupes celebrating light in the dark months. With scatterings of snowflakes, natural textures and simple touches, Scandi style was made for Christmas. Festive Friends Bring the magic of Christmas alive for little ones with fun and familiar characters to spark lively imaginations; friendly Father Christmas, playful penguin, silly snowman and not forgetting Rudolph the red nosed reindeer of course!

www.narboroughhall.co.uk www.facebook.com/ narboroughhall.co.uk Twitter @narboroughhall Instagram @narboroughhall www.pinterest.com/ narboroughhall

NICHE | 53

Rise of the machines in today’s “Living Kitchen” Kitchens are fast becoming a haven for gadgets, as foodies across the region seek ever more flexible yet practical spaces in the heart of their homes.

them into the design. People don’t want an array of equipment cluttering up work surfaces so we have to look at integrating them into the whole package.”

However, fitting them all in without compromising on aesthetic appeal, charm and practicality is the real challenge. That’s the verdict from Steve Hills, who has worked in the kitchen design industry for over 25 years and runs Steve Hills Design Ltd.

Steve doesn’t work from showrooms, an approach he believes is a major benefit to his customers as he is coming to them. Not only does this save time and money (showrooms are major investments and the costs are passed down to customers) it also means Steve and his team can really get under the skin of each new design.

“We work across the region, notably in the Vale of Belvoir and rural Leicestershire and Nottingham, so we see a huge variety of spaces and have to ensure we can adapt to every household’s different needs. What we are finding right now is that people are keen to get as many gadgets into the design as possible. “It is perfectly understandable. There’s such a plethora of machines available, from wine chillers and water boilers to coffee makers and recycling units and customers want to ensure they have as many in as possible. The trick is in building NICHE | 54

“Visiting customers in their homes is crucial.” Steve continues, “Sometimes people will see a design they like in a magazine or have been inspired by a film set or TV programme but it is often the case that the design wouldn’t actually ‘work’ in that setting. That could be down to the dynamics of family life or simply due to the lighting or the layout of the house. “On these occasions we can often help by suggesting small but

important internal modifications but the key thing is being there as a consultant. We listen, we interpret, then we deliver. It is a very robust but highly creative process. The end result is a kitchen that not only looks fantastic but actually makes a valuable contribution to home life.” Steve and his team have an encyclopaedic knowledgeable of materials, colours, styles and gadgets that are both trending but most importantly, achievable for every home. They have a vast selection of up to date samples, colour worktops, door styles and manufacturers working closely with them. To get them on board with your next project, visit www.stevehillsdesign.co.uk or call 07812 389869.

Hot Property

Whatever your home styling requirements, whether you are looking for a complete design, a few tweaks to make it home or bring it back to life or simply to present it in its best light to sell or rent out, Chrysalis are the experts for you.

Tel: 0121 6476709 f: Facebook.com/ChrysalisInteriorDesign t: @ChrysalisID www.chrysalishomestaging.com

NICHE | 55

Stunning Natural Structures There are few buildings more stunning than a beautiful Oak framed house; striking, dramatic, timeless and perfectly suited to their environment and surroundings. Having a bespoke home built from this natural material creates a home with warmth and character, a home that will age perfectly and be admired by many, a home which will repay you for years and years. Natural Structures are a Leicestershire bred company whose workmanship and skill for the craft are second to none.

As a family run business which employs a long standing talented crew who use age old techniques which are passed on in the training of apprentices who join the team. These traditional skills are part of the very heart of the company and you the client are invited to their relaxed design office in their Oak Framing Barns at Tur Langton, Leicestershire. Here, you can not only relax and discuss your ideas but you can also browse the extensive design inspiration files and take a look at the workshop where your structure is created. Architectural technician Catherine is on hand to assist with the translation of your ideas into concept sketches, preparing plans and even producing 3d computer aided design which of course all helps your ideas come to life.

desired aesthetic of the build and with every component on each project created at the barn they are a unique, skilled set who create beauty in each build. Highly Commended at the Niche Magazine Business Awards 2015 Natural Structures build projects which are inspirational. They use strong, timeless skills and stunning materials to create buildings which are perfectly in tune with their surroundings, which are a pleasure to see and inhabit. Contact the team: The Manor, Main Street Tur Langton, Leicestershire LE8 0PJ 01858 545 518 07970 557 992

Using the very best in oak timbers which is all grown and felled in France and graded in the UK each component beam is carefully selected taking into consideration the differing grain directions, cambers, knots and twists across the frame which all add to the

CREATED BY OUR ARTISAN CRAFTSMEN

Call us or visit our website for further details

01858 545 518 www.natural-structures.co.uk NICHE | 56

FREE Design, Planning & Feasibility consultation

naturalstructures specialist oak buildings

Hot Property

NICHE | 57

Give your space the finish it deserves... Give your space the finish it deserves... A good rug can really complete a living space, it can be the centre piece of any room and is a great way to create the wow factor. It needs to complement your space, be practical and feel like a good investment. So, how do you find ‘the one’ in the world of rugs? Well, of course there are plenty of high street retailers out there trying to tempt you with their off the shelf designs but how special is that one of thousands rug really going to be? The Rug Studio in Uppingham Rutland only deal in special rugs, no magical ones of course but plenty with the wow factor! Owner Rachel’s love of textiles started when she was a child and as a young woman it was her work in woven textiles that really sealed the rug passion deal. Since 1994 learning her craft in the oriental carpet trade Rachel soon realised the complexity of the trade and became further enamoured with its world. Her interest grew and grew and eventually led Rachel with her father to open The Rug Studio in 2000, restoring and cleaning antique rugs to their former glory. The studio became a place that people knew they could trust with their antique rugs, family heirlooms or much loved designs. The small specialist team then introduced the ever popular handpicked and bespoke oriental and kilim rugs created all over the world including items from Turkey, Egypt, India and Iran. Over the years the business has gone from strength to strength introducing different aspects to the business and seeking out the very best in high quality rugs for customers all over the world. Rachel works closely with the London and international suppliers for antique rugs and new contemporary designs. Visiting fairs, and studying market trends rugs while still achieving 2 days personally within the workshop assessing the cleaning and restoration which she still likes to be hands on and restore as much as possible herself. Services range from cleaning, restoration, sourcing, bespoke furniture and even holding exhibitions and lectures.

“The studio became a place that people knew they could trust with their antique rugs, family heirlooms or much loved designs”.

The studio is a place of true craftsmanship and to visit is to realize the beauty of the craft. Pop into the studio to transform your space, give it that finishing wow factor and discover a world of beautiful rugs. Find all these services and traditional, decorative or contemporary rugs at: 2 High Street East Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PZ. www.therugstudio.co.uk Call: 01572 829 927

Come see us at Irnham Winter Fair Near Grantham 16-18 November

Come see us at:

Country Living Christmas BDC Islington 11-15 November (Stand A33) Irnham Winter Fair Near Grantham 16-18 November Ideal Home Exhibition Olympia London 25-29 November (Stand L682)

Led by trained restorer with 21 years experience a Contemporary Hand knotted Oriental & European Rug

THE RUG STUDIO, 2 High St East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm or by appointme Tel: 01572 829927 or 07885 757 796 Email: info@therugstudio.co.uk Website: www.theru

Led by a trained restorer with 22 years experience as a specialist dealer in Antique and Contemporary Hand knotted Oriental & European Rugs, Carpets, Kilims, Textiles & Cushions.

THE RUG STUDIO, 2 High St East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PZ. Open: Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm or by appointment Tel: 01572 829927 or 07885 757 796 Email: info@therugstudio.co.uk Website: www.therugstudio.co.uk NICHE | 58

Av N ai ow la bl e!

o pr ur es ne su w re d w rive as w hi a ng y/ se pat rv io ice !

Inspired interiors...

Stone Floor Cleaning Marble, limestone, travertine, porcelain, quarry tiles, ceramic, flagstone and many more. From old farm kitchen floors to hotel reception areas and swimming pool surrounds, we can clean, seal, polish and are Nulife trained and accredited.

Metal & Wood Combinations This trend will continue well into 2016, with the classic combination of wooden tops and metal legs apparent in tables and chairs. The ‘hairpin’ legs of this Leighton Dining table £498, are particularly on trend creating a simple silhouette for practical living.

Bringing the Outdoors Indoors Natural motifs are a key look for interiors this season, and using accessories is a quick way to update your home’s style. This Stag cushion, £19.50, is one of a range including Watercolour Ram, Watercolour Stag and Robin motifs, and would make an ideal Christmas gift.

The Floor Cleaning Experts Other Services l Upholstery/suite cleaning, using a low moisture system

reducing drying times offering the latest cleaning technology.

l Pest control-Chemspec trained we can treat bugs and moths to

carpets effectively and responsibily.

l Indoor sports surfaces, including rubber crumb running tracks,

tennis courts.

l Karndean and amitco flooring types. l Safety flooring including altro floor coverings.

Scandie Simplicity Scandinavian style doesn’t stop at flatpack furniture; the clean lines, subtle colours give an impression of space and fresh air. This Kaufmann Sideboard has a vintage feel and the range of subtle blues make it a great addition to any dining room, period or contemporary. £795. Available from www.bluesuntree.co.uk 0116 267 0267

T: 0800 152 2064 or 07821 107 526 E: info@ecocleanfloorcare.co.uk @ecoclean_floor www.facebook.com/ecocleanfloorcare.co.uk NICHE | 59

“...We can be beaten on ‘price’, But not on ‘Quality’...”

COUNTESTHORPE BLINDS Conservatory Blinds - Wooden Plantation Shutters - Quality Patio Awnings We also have a full range of blinds including: Verticals, Venetians, Rollers, Romans, Pleateds, VELUX & Woven Wood Blinds

“We specialise in shaped conservatory roof blinds” Wide range of awnings including: Manual, Motorised, Automatic & also with lights

‘Free’ Home Measuring & Fitting Service Find us on Facebook

Call for a quotation 0116 277 6749 / 0771 833 7048 www.countesthorpe-blinds.co.uk

KITCHEN APPLIANCES AT

DISCOUNT PRICES

Most Ex Stock

SAVE A FURTH ER £20 WHE N QUOTING NICHE

READY & PRICED TO GO

Fridge freezers from £169 American fridge freezers from £399 Washing Machines from £169 Dishwashers from £129 Gas and electric cookers from £199 Range cookers from £499

www.bargainbuyz.co.uk NICHE | 60

FINALLY!

A LOCAL EX-DISPLAY APPLIANCE SHOWROOM WITH AMAZING PRICES AND SERVICE

OVENS FRIDGES DISHWASHERS SAVE FREEZERS HOBS HOODS DRYERS £££’S INTERGRATED APPLIANCES AVAILABLE EX-DISPLAY AND GRADED APPLIANCE SHOWROOM ALL ITEMS COME WITH A WARRANTY SAME DAY DELIVERY CAN BE ARRANGED

Tel: 0116 271 0320 or 07982 134 105

15 Mandervell Road Oadby Industrial Estate LE2 5LQ

Hot Property

Broughtons

Traditional Lighting, Ironmongery and Home Accessories

Dry Carpet Cleaning Shops, clubs, public houses, restaurants, offices and residential properties. The most natural eco friendly bio degradable way to dry clean your carpets! l Immediate use of carpets. l Pet and child safe. l No wet dog after smell.

Hinkley Plymouth 6 Light Chandelier

The Old Cinema Cropston Road Anstey Leicestershire LE7 7BP

0116 232 3175

www.broughtons.com sales@broughtons.com

Open 7 Days Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm Sundays 10am - 4pm

l ia n nor ec s o sve ets Sp fer Gro arp d C of war ons d t oo rin W B & l No water used. l Woolsafe approved products used. l Woolsafe trained technicians.

Great Value, Great Service Over 30 Years Experience - Old carpets disposed of - Wide choice & genuine advice

- Expert fitting guaranteed

l Our system is approved by most carpet and fibre manufacturers

worldwide and is safe to use on all natural and synthetic fibres. l ZERO risk of shrinkage. l ZERO risk of colour run. l Just one clean using our system massively reduces dust mites/

allergens, cat allergens and mold spores.

- AXMINSTERS - CARPET TILES - LAMINATES - SOLID WOODS - VINYLS - SISALS astleycarpets@yahoo.co.uk

01455 285214

75 Main St, Broughton Astley LE9 6RE (free parking)

Receive a ÂŁ5 M&S voucher when you spend over ÂŁ120.00 quote Niche to redeem

T: 0800 152 2064 or 07821 107 526 E: info@ecocleanfloorcare.co.uk @ecoclean_floor www.facebook.com/ecocleanfloorcare.co.uk NICHE | 61

Fine & Fabulous Food

Firmly on the food map Leicester is firmly on the food map these days with award winning restaurants like Maiyango (who are celebrating ten years this year - happy birthday Maiyango!) and a wonderful array of choice in foods to satisfy all taste buds and budgets. Whether you are looking for something quick and fresh in your lunch break or for a full on

special occasion evening meal we have so much to choose from right here in the city. Your palette can travel the world without you needing to leave Leicester with flavours from every corner. Italian, Greek, Indian, Caribbean, French...you name it, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got it! There are some truly

exciting things happening for our Leicester foodie scene with new restaurants popping up across the county all the time with an emphasis on good food using local produce and a good atmosphere whose culinary passions are just waiting to become your gastronomic delight. What more could you ask for? Image by Tom Wren @creative by Wren

Image by Tom Wren @ Creative by Wren

NICHE | 62

Fine & Fabulous Food

What’s in your Dutch Courage? When you think about doing something different on your next day off from work, chances are, the idea of distilling your own gin probably won’t cross your mind. In the majestic Charnwood Forest, The 45 West Distillery and Gin School sit peacefully surrounded by all the botanicals that inspire its flavoursome spirit, Burleighs London Dry Gin. Our Account Manager, Sally, took a day off to investigate the home of the Gin-making experience and report back to our readers with what she found. Sally’s morning started in the lavish countryside that is the backdrop to the quaint village of Nanpantan. An informative presentation by Master Distiller, Jamie Baxter (with refreshments provided), explained why and how they use their equipment and that every piece used in the distilling process is made from copper for enhanced tastes to tingle the taste buds. A tour of the distillery showed how the whole process works from the adding of ingredients to the sealing of the bottle. Now she was ready to take on the equipment for herself! Arriving back to the workshop, Sally was welcomed by a refreshingly smooth gin and tonic; for inspirational purposes only, of course. She chose from over 120 different botanical ingredients and weighed them out individually to get her desired delicate tastes. After adding them to the pure alcohol, she used her special mini still and watched her creation bubble away infusing her chosen flavours.

It was time for the taste test and with Jamie’s approval, Sally was proud to bottle and add a personalised label to her very own Gin.

It was time for the taste test and with Jamie’s approval, Sally was proud to bottle and add a personalised label to her very own Gin. Sally was impressed with the schools knowledge and passion for Gin-making – true connoisseurs of the gentle spirit. Looking for that exciting new experience? Book now at www.45ginschool.com/

Bringing cooking back into the home ‘That’s all very well but I can’t chop a carrot up in 3 seconds flat’ and ‘I don’t have enough room in my yard for a fully-fledged herb garden or kitchen full of ingredients to whip out an aubergine on demand,’ are phrases that I have commonly heard whilst watching Jamie’s 15-Minute Meals. In our busy and fast-paced lives, providing a wholesome dinner at the end of every day can more often than not, be difficult and a bewildering chore. But since hearing the enthusiastic reviews on their latest find, our Account Managers, Sally Smith and Emily Jackson have convinced me that Marley Spoon’s Chef-designed recipe boxes are the solution we’ve all been looking for. From a selection of salmon, chilli, rice and other dishes on the website, the pair had their chosen box full of fresh ingredients delivered to them; avoiding the hassle that the weekly shop brings. With each ingredient weighed and measured already, all they had to do was put it together and cook! They said: “We felt confident cooking it with everything all prepared – even the butter for frying was in the pack! It would be hard to go wrong.” With easy to follow recipes and a ‘tasty outcome’ the girls were impressed with themselves having produced a nutritious gourmet-style meal inspiring them to cook great food more often.

In our busy and fast paced lives, providing a wholesome dinner at the end of every day can more often than not, be difficult and a bewildering chore.

www.marleyspoon.co.uk NICHE | 55

When One Christmas Pudding Simply Isn’t Enough!

225g sultanas 225g currants 225g raisins 110g glace cherries halved 225g brown sugar 140g breadcrumbs 140g plain flour 1 teaspoon mixed spice ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 110g almonds, chopped 175g butter, melted 3 eggs Grated zest and juice of 1 orange ½ small can of guinness (300ml) A little milk 1 tablespoon whiskey

Spoon into 2 x 450g pudding bowls. Place a double piece of parchment paper over the bowl with a fold half way to allow for expansion, followed by a double piece of foil, again with a fold and then tie with string. Steam for 4 – 5 hours, then leave the pudding to go cold. Store in a dry cool place until required.

Method Place the sultanas, currants, raisins and cherries in a bowl. Add the sugar, breadcrumbs, flour, spices and chopped almonds and mix well. Melt the butter and beat the eggs lightly. Add the butter, eggs, orange juice and zest and Guinness plus the whiskey to the dry mix and stir thoroughly. If the mixture seems a little dry, moisten with milk.

Flaming the Christmas Pudding This will impress your guests. Warm a ladleful of brandy over a direct heat and as soon as the brandy is hot, ask someone to set light to it using a long match. Place the ladle, now gently flaming, on top of the pudding – but don’t pour the brandy over until you reach the table. When you do, pour it slowly over the pudding, sides and all, and watch it flame.

Our £135 One Day Cookery Course Voucher makes the perfect gift!

On Christmas Day, place the pudding in a large saucepan and pour in enough water to reach 2/3 up the sides of the pudding basin. Simmer over a gentle heat for 1.5 hour making sure it does not boil dry. Serve with custard, brandy sauce or cream.

£5, £10, £20 and £50 Vouchers also available

To purchase a voucher or find out more, please visit www.bridge67cookeryschool.co.uk or call 0116 279 6155

NICHE | 64

Fine & Fabulous Food

Where the cooks goâ&#x20AC;Ś Why wait for the sun to shine? Enjoy that unmistakable aroma of barbecued meat smoked to perfection any time of the year with your VikingRange BBQ! Serving your mouth-watering needs whatever the weather this outdoor kitchen is equipped with everything but the walls. Entertain your friends come rain or shine with the VikingRange BBQ! DELIVERY & STANDARD INSTALLATION INCLUDED Connect with us...

www.codltd.co.uk 01530 443648 NICHE | 65

We’ve found the best cafe in Leicester... shhh! Tired of the chain coffee houses? Craving some high quality coffee and food? 96 Degrees is where we go for our fix these days and if you haven’t been yet then you need to - simple as that! In a world where chain coffee shops seem to dominate every street corner, independent 96 Degrees is a welcome addition to our city. Located on lively Braunstone Gate, 96 Degrees is the ideal place to spend a cosy few hours. The menu, devised by joint owner and ex chef – Ed, pieces together items we really want from our favourite Cafe, A.K.A, made to order sandwiches on Hambleton Bakery bread, superfood blueberry waffles with yoghurt and honey for breakfast and inventive and healthy things on toast. It’s a foodies dream and we

couldn’t wait to sample from it and report back. Tough job we realise, but someone’s got to do it!

You can even flick through the vinyl record collection and the staff will play your request; we stuck on some classic Blondie!

Cosy, rustic, natural and refreshingly real decor

Now for the all-important nectar of the gods (coffee) chat. This stuff is Monmouth coffee, grown and fairly traded in Africa, Central and South America, and then roasted in the UK since 1978. It’s basically the best around, with a menu of coffee to choose from featuring anything from a beautifully presented flat white to a filter coffee made from handpicked, single origin beans. For those with a sweet tooth, coffee comes in the form of the Iced Nutella Latte (yum), Frozen Peanut Butter Mocha and other equally delicious sounding treats. Also check out the vast tea selection and plenty of choice in the soft drinks too.

We’ll start with the decor, it’s original, industrial, rustic, natural and refreshingly real, and unlike the term cool it is just that - cool. We love it. Then there are the staff, who actually seem genuinely pleased to greet you. A rare triumph. Then there are the sounds, no typical cafe music, no chill-out tunes with female vocals that seem to be in every coffee shop that ever was... hurrah!

Fine & Fabulous Food

on classics mixed with adventurous mouthwaterers such as the goat’s cheese bruschetta with figs, walnuts and honey (drooling). One thing’s for sure there isn’t a bore on the menu and deciding was only made tricky by our greedy desire to have the lot! Silence ensued aside from mmm’s and ahhh’s all round, which is always a good sign, and then came dessert! Home-made cake heaven, when it’s home-made cake, you can’t say no, well, we can’t anyway, so a cake each

followed by another coffee (just to check, yes, it definitely was the best we have ever had) and we were head over heels with the place. So to round up our thoughts; to visit Ninety Six is to discover your new favourite local cafe, only trouble is we sort of don’t really want everyone to know about it in case our favourite seat goes. Visit by all means, just save us a seat!

42 Braunstone Gate, Braunstone Gate, Leicester 0116 255 5474 • www.facebook.com/ninetysixdegrees.leicester

Brand and page layout design, Creative62 Limited.

Food wise it actually didn’t take us long to choose as our favourites were all there, a sniff of sourdough bread and I’m in... whatever is on it! As it was lunchtime we went for lunch options, naturally, but a glance at the breakfast menu made for some enticing options too, note to self, breakfast... soon! With sandwiches, soups, deli tasting boards and daily specials - Ed knows a trick or two when it comes to devising a menu that offers twists

Exciting new cafe bar comes to Market Harborough October 2015 saw the new Cafe Bar Insomnia open its doors in the vibrant Market Harborough. During the day, it provides a social, relaxing cafe for those looking to enjoy a refreshment and snack and at night the Cafe transforms into a cosmopolitan Wine Bar offering specialist wines, beers and spirits with artisan food. It’s a place where high-quality ingredients, friendly welcomes and vibrant atmosphere combine seamlessly to create a place you will want to visit time and time again. The coffee is of the highest quality and the food carefully created to be just what you are looking for, both for day and evening dining. Evening dining is a relaxed yet delicious affair with charcuterie boards and nibbles being the style of choice to accompany a drink and social gathering. The concept is a refreshing and NICHE | 68

pioneering one. The decor has a chic industrial, rustic feel and with a nod to the historic buildings’ sewing roots, it makes for a homely yet modern vibe. The cafe boasts an array of exceptional coffee, specialist teas and delicious cakes and snacks during the day and wines and carefully sourced ingredients for nibble food in the evening. Owner Raj Aggarwal told us, “I am thrilled to be pioneering such an exciting concept for the people of Market Harborough. Market Harborough is a very special town, and we are so excited to bring something new. We are providing something different for the local people. Whether you are looking for a place to hold an informal coffee meeting for business, or are after a drink and a snack whilst shopping, our cafe is perfect for you. In the evening, we wanted to provide a warm and relaxed location for those looking for an intimate yet vibrant

place for your evening social gatherings, we offer something for everybody, and everybody is welcome!” The premises is the historic Victorian Symington Building, originally a new-build in 1889 for R & WH Symington; a manufacturer of corsets, foundation garments and swim wear, it’s an iconic part of the town’s fabric, a building with character and originality and now happily, it has become a place that people can enjoy once again. It’s a busy time for owner Raj as just recently he has also launched the neighbouring SPAR retail outlet. With a whole new food concept, the convenience store provides a huge choice in fresh groceries, including many local specialties and artisan goods such as jams and meat from a local butcher, fresh bakery goods and of course all your desired food and home essentials. Featuring some great

Fine & Fabulous Food

money-saving offers, excellent customer service and extended opening hours, it’s a local store with a lot more than you have come to expect! Raj told us, “Our shop is unique in many ways, but in particular, we pride ourselves on the convenience of our location, our friendly staff and the fresh and exciting produce that we carry. Many people are surprised that their local SPAR can provide them with such choice, come and visit to see the quality in choice for yourself!”

for a refreshing and welcome change in a market which needs a much-needed boost! So, dine, relax and shop all in your local Insomnia and SPAR at the character filled Symington building Market Harborough, LE16 7AG

These new innovative concepts in cafe, dining and shopping makes

NICHE | 69

FROM CORSETS TO CONVENIENCE New upmarket SPAR opens itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doors to Market Harborough A comprehensive array of fresh fruit and vegetables available daily as well as meat sourced from local butcher Jospeh Morris

A SPAR WITH A DIFFERENCE Full Salad Bar and Deli Counter Jams from The London Jam Company Locally sourced products from Mellow Yellow Oils, to fine cheeses from Clemency Hall Cheeses to fine meats and olives from Rowcliffe Foods. With many, many more artisan products now in store

The Symington Building Adam & Eve Street Market Harborough LE16 7AG Tel: 01858 419000 7am to 9pm Monday to Saturday 8am to 6pm on Sunday

Free to use ATM. We accept all major credit cards including Apple Pay NICHE | 70

Fine & Fabulous Food

Will You Accept the Harborough Market Christmas Challenge? Harborough Market, winner of the Niche Business Award for Best Independent Retailer, has everything you need for the perfect Christmas all under one roof. This Christmas season, why not give the supermarkets a miss and support your local independent traders? Buy local produce, support local traders and buy handmade items that often can’t be found on the high street. So can it be done? Can you buy all of your shopping from Harborough Market? Well, we think you can get pretty much everything you need from them! Let’s start with the food they have on offer. Christmas is all about the turkey, right? John Ross & Son Butcher will be taking Christmas turkey orders from 5th November. They will also be stocking up on Christmas favourites beef topside at £9.99 kilo, thin sausages and streaky bacon; all ready so you can make the perfect Christmas meal. Next stop in the market food hall is Routs Fishmonger who are shipping in the very best salmon and seafood ready for the festive season. Perfect for parties and entertaining. Mmmm… it’s making us hungry already. Sue’s Cheese, another market favourite, is filling the counters with their bestselling pork pies and pork

and game pies, which start at only £3.65. Sue has a fabulous array of cheese on sale all year round, but particular Christmas favourites are the Snowdonia Black Bombs and Lancashire Bombs. No Christmas dinner is complete without vegetables, love them or loath them, Brussel sprouts are a must! Boyds of Leicester has a great selection of high quality, fresh fruit, vegetables and even nuts, all at great prices. And of course Christmas isn’t Christmas without goodies! Brennans Candy Cabin has a huge array of chocolates and Christmas stockings – enough to satisfy the very sweetest of sweet tooths! That just leaves the Christmas cake to get. Crumbs! of Market Harborough are all ready to take orders on Christmas cakes. They can make anything you want from a traditional fruit cake to a sponge cake with prices starting at £20.00. If you haven’t seen their creations, check them out! So that’s the food covered, what about presents?! Well, take your pick. If it’s mass produced, generic products you want, then you’re in the wrong place. Apart from all of the brilliant general hall traders, the market runs a weekly Thursday Craft Market full of wonderfully unique, handmade items and an Antiques Market each Wednesday and Sunday if you are looking for something really different as a gift idea. There are just too many items to list, but it seems as if there is something for everyone at the Market.

Any friend or relative would be delighted to receive a Turkish lamp or lantern from the fabulous Wee Bazaar. You won’t find these on every high street. Stress-3-IT have a great range of new and refurbished laptops starting from only £125 as well as fabulous little stocking fillers like Minions and Stormtrooper USB sticks for only £9.50. Perfect for the teens in the family. How about a visit to Gary Lawson who sells frames and prints? There’s nothing nicer than perhaps gifting a beautifully framed family photo to loved ones. And if you are really looking to push the boat out for that special someone, Selvey & Co Jewellers has a huge range of beautiful jewellery and watches to suit every pocket. They are the only Sekonda stockist in Market Harborough and have a range that includes Omega, Tag Heuer as well as vintage watches. You really do need to visit the market to see what great finds you can make. A great time to visit is on Friday 4th December 5pm to 9pm for the late night Christmas Fayre. So how about it? Can you take up the challenge and buy all of your Christmas shopping at Harborough Market? We definitely will be! Harborough Market is operated by Market Place and is open 8am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and 9am to 3pm for the popular Sunday Antiques Market. NICHE | 71

19Gale presents the ultimate Christmas Party Package From just ÂŁ34.99 per head your guests will be treated to a three course festive feast in the sumptuous 19Gale dining room. Followed by drinks and karaoke in the exclusive booths that can cater for just 5 up to 35 guests, or why not book the place out for your private party hosting up to 180 guests.

"Make your own music this Christmas at 19Gale" Call our events team for more information and to get yourslef booked in for the Christmas Party to remember. 19Gale Restaurant, Bar and Karaoke Lounges 58 Halford Street Leicester LE1 1TQ

T: 0116 262 9888 W: 19Gale.co.uk

NICHE | 72

Fine & Fabulous Food

The smell of success - And its taste! Anyone who’s followed their nose to the Big Daddies Diner pop-up catering service to taste their delicious gourmet hot dogs and other mouthwatering dishes will know why we’ve presented them with our Fine and Fabulous Food and Drinks award this year. The mobile family catering business has took the Midlands by storm since its founder, Jeff Wilson, moved to Leicester in 2012 and brought with him the latest trend in fast food. Jeff developed his hunger for appetisingly unique street foods in London where the crazy for quirky street vendors is really kicking off. He spent six months picking up the craft and working on his very own niche trade. Now, thanks to Jeff, we can enjoy gourmet hot dogs and burgers, homesmoked pulled pork and brisket and chilli con carne and philly steak parties, business functions and in fact, anywhere you like! The Big Daddies lot love a wedding

and consider wedlock celebrations a speciality of theirs! They love making a meaningful day even more memorable. Their stylish gazebo fits with any theme and with friendly banter, approachable service and options for all guests they are a great reason for guests to begin mingling and get the party started! But Big Daddies Diner didn’t simply win because of their tempting tastes and love of celebrating in style; they were awarded for their dedication to supporting the community and other local traders. Each lip-licking topping is made on the day using fresh ingredients that are locally sourced wherever possible. Traditional handmade artisan bread is also sourced from home-grown suppliers here in the Midlands. As a regular contributor to the Digbeth Dining Club, Jeff’s hot dog menu has helped win the club some major foodie awards over the past two years and has rejuvenated the atmosphere around Birmingham with a fresh vibe boosting its reputation. With an adaptable menu and a passionate can-do attitude, Jeff and his family (as silhouetted in the Big Daddies

logo) cater from dusk ‘til dawn for breakfasts to midnight snacking and can serve hot and cold drinks on request. Got a public or private event coming up? Get that current trendy street food vibe!

www.bigdaddies.co.uk 07824 099 590 bigdaddiesdiner@gmail.com NICHE | 73

Maiyango celebrate 10th Birthday with new Tasting Room 10 years after the original Maiyango Restaurant concept was launched, we are thrilled to announce the arrival of the Maiyango Tasting Room a pioneering new concept from Leicester’s muchloved Maiyango brand. The Tasting Room is a fitting culmination of all that has sparkled for Maiyango over the last decade, a bar and restaurant that is a leading light in our city’s nightlife and social scene. The Tasting Room is an exciting and intimate space which can play host to small groups of 10-20 guests, allowing you and your party, whether it be a hen NICHE | 74

do, just meeting for drinks or a glamorous night out, to relax and enjoy a sophisticated, social night out in comfort and privacy. The newly refurbished micro space is right around the corner from Maiyango Restaurant and the soon to be installed Ferris Wheel in Jubilee Square. As soon as you step through the door the decor is perfectly in tune with the look and intimate, warm feel that we have come to expect from Maiyango’s unique style. Providing you with a stylish location to gather, in what essentially is your very own private city bar for the night, The Tasting Room is a unique way to add something more to your night out. A comfy seating area complete with cushions and candlelight make for an intimate and fitting atmosphere as the city centre location for you and your friends

and your special evening. The bar, which is in the centre of the room, is exclusively yours for your evening and everything is provided to make sure you feel like a VIP for the night. The music is yours to personalise and the Tasting Room comes complete with its very own glittering disco ball. The Tasting Room also includes a Boudoir area, complete with mirror and dresser - perfect for those selfie touch ups or for refreshing your look before heading out onto a club after hours. Maiyango’s food and drink reputation is unrivalled, and The Tasting Room promises to build on this and add a more interactive and fun experience factor. The mixologists will even let you in on their secrets as they invite you to enjoy a fun cocktail making class to give your night the edge. Choose a cocktail class and not

Fine & Fabulous Food

only do you get to make and of course, drink your three different cocktail creations, but you can also combine this with foodie nibbles or a full-on gourmet dinner from their award-winning menu. The cocktail making classes are just £25 per person, so are much more affordable for a night out than you would think for such a VIP evening. There are plenty of drinks packages too with arrival cocktails, disco punch bowl cocktails to share, a spirit and Bellini bar (which allows you and your party to mix your very own drinks) party shots, buckets of beer and hard teas (which are much more interesting that your typical afternoon tea offering...). For the all-important nibbles choose from seasonal canapes, antipasti boards, quirky

donuts and popcorn and fabulously fun alcoholic jellies and sorbets. This exciting new gathering venue is available to hire with free and exclusive use for you and your party. It’s another jewel in the Maiyango crown, exactly what we need in the heart of the city and provides the perfect party spot for you and your friends, whatever the occasion. So, quick, contact Maiyango soon before this exclusive new night spot gets all booked up for the festive season ahead and beyond.

tastingroom@maiyango.com 0116 251 8898

NICHE | 75

Emily and the three beers... Our Emily came across a Christmas gift pack containing three ales delivered from the Langton Brewery in Market Harborough. As the labels were all so inviting she couldn’t choose which bottle to open first, so she decided to sneak a sip from each of them. The first, Caudle, was sentimental being the first beer the brewery had ever brewed. The amber tinted liquid was full of flavour. It’s floral and grassy scent made her feel as though it was almost spring time and its soft sugar and oaty taste was complimented by its earthy tones. “Just right for a celebration!” she said. The second, Inclined Plane, is award-winning and the most popular of all the Langton beverages. The golden ale was deliciously fruity (but not too fruity) with a citrus edge and a warm malty finish. “Just right for any occasion!” she said. The third, Scarecrow, a seasonal special was the last to be sampled. The aroma was just as the taste. Sweet, fruity and smooth with a perfect malt and hoppy balance had Emily wanting to share with her friends. “Just right for a casual get together!” she said. “…And who’s been drinking all of my beer?” said a voice…

‘Tis the season to be merry Two Birds seasonal Christmas Spiced Vodka has hit the shelves again and definitely got us into the festive spirit! This beautifully spiced Vodka can only be described as a ‘mince pie in a glass’. It is crafted by Mark Gamble Master Distiller at Two Birds distillery in Market Harborough using their finest English Vodka distilled from Sugar Beet and Barley which is then allowed to rest in an array of fruits and spices for 7 days. It is then bottled by hand and finished with Christmas decoration. This has then been paired in the Christmas duo pack with Two Birds After Dinner Mint Vodka making the perfect Christmas present. On the pallet the vodka starts with intense chocolate and finishes with mint. A great way to start your Christmas and an even better way to finish Christmas Dinner. www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk 01858 414 256

British wine since ’79 North Star 2011, the award-winning, Ice Wine style desert wine from the Eglantine Vineyard is made from Madeleine Angevine grapes achieving a subtle blend of acidic and sweet notes. The flavour of this rich vino, traditionally made in Germany and Austria, is manipulated by allowing the grapes to freeze in the winter months (or to be more precise, the Eglantine freezer to get temperatures just right) and pressing out a concentrate juice that is high in sugar and acid (thewritetaste.co.uk). North Star 2011 is fermented slowly; sometimes taking up to three years to vintage. The combination of acidic and sweet tastes that emancipates from the fermentation delivers a delicious and exotic flavoursome wine. Vanilla and honey mix with peach and apricot twangs creating a full flavour along with a warm essence of cinnamon. A perfect gift for Christmas and special occasions. Another award-winner is the Eglantine Mead; a modest, light and tasty beverage that is considered by re-enactment groups around the country to be ‘just how mead should be.’ Made from the honey produced by bees in the vineyard’s apiary, they have created a delicate taste with hints of apple that is light and fresh without an overbearing sweetness. The four-acre, Nottinghamshire winery began growing vines and keeping bees in 1979. They also produce a delicious cherry wine alongside their award winners. email tony.skuriat@gmail.com or call 01509 852 386 for a tour of the family-run vineyard. www.eglantinevineyard.co.uk NICHE | 76

amount of amazing, wines, beers and spirits.

om 12-3pm ailable rs re for special events ery

ng you soon.

rket Harborough LE16 7LT ail: info@duncanmurraywines.co.uk Web: www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk

Duncan Murray Wines Christmas Drinking Suggestions It’s that time of year again! With the festive season fast approaching and ‘to-do’ lists getting longer by the day, we’ve fast tracked some seasonal drinking suggestions to help with your preparations. This is both a joy and a challenge for us as there’s so much to recommend. In particular, our fabulous local drinks producers go from strength to strength, so put your to-do list to one side for a mo’ and let us tickle your Yuletide taste buds with some great local tipples. Great as... a warming party piece with the wow factor The accolades have been showering down on Harrington-based Warner Edwards Gin and quite rightly so. Their Dry, Sloe, Elderflower and Rhubarb gins are absolutely wonderful by themselves, but Sion Edwards has tipped us off to a great way to combine their Dry and Sloe Gin with a Christmas classic: mulled apple juice. Add cloves, cinnamon, star anise and pieces of orange to apple juice (locally produced, of course). Heat the mixture and then combine the following quantities: 5 parts of mulled juice to 1 part of Sloe Gin and 1/2 part of Dry Gin. Do not NICHE | 78

heat the gin, just pour it in and then stand back and enjoy the smiles on your guests’ faces.

and be wowed by their After Dinner Mint Vodka. It does exactly what it says on the bottle!

Great as... a winter warmer Alistair and David at the Langton Brewery have been honing their craft since 1999 and their Winter brew, Innkeeper, is a great testament to their skill. Malty and full-flavoured with a hint of festive spice it makes a welcome change from some cloying, over-blown seasonal ales you get at this time of year - and believe us, we’ve tried a few! Great with hearty, winter dishes like casseroles and pies; enjoy with good friends on a cold evening.

Great as... a Christmas day toast Situated between East Farndon and Marston Trussell, Welland Valley Vineyard is a beautiful, bijou parcel of lovingly tended vines. We’ve been enjoying their award-winning sparkling wine since the shop opened and reckon its crisp, light, citrus bubbles provide a refreshing festive toast. Great if you’re having smoked salmon and scrambled eggs as well.

Great as... a sensational seasonal sipper Based in Market Harborough, Two Birds Distillers isn’t shy of experimenting with flavour combinations to the extent that we’ve nicknamed head distiller Mark, ‘The Alchemist’. Mark really is a wizard with flavours and at Christmas produces two Willy Wonka-esque tipples. Try Two Birds Christmas Spiced Vodka with its wonderful aromas of mince pies, mulled wine and Christmas pudding

Great as... a pudding and cheesefriendly sweetie We might be milking the local connection a little when we say that Polys, the Greek importer of one of our favourite sweet wines studied at Brook House College in Market Harborough, but that’s the only weak link about Samos Grand Cru from Greece. This superb sweetie is bursting with flavours of honey, rich raisin and spice and is just great with cheeses like Camembert and goats’ cheese as well as the Christmas pud. www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk

Fine & Fabulous Food

NICHE NICHE || 59 61

We dined as the guests of the Viceroy of India’s wife Imagine travelling to India without even boarding a plane!

business ‘Vicereine’. Just for your information ‘Vicereine’ was the title of the Viceroy of India’s wife in those far off days of Empire - and this dinner was suitably magnificent.

Well, that’s just what happened recently at an amazing banquet created by bespoke Indian catering

Elegant cocktail glasses filled with spiced prawns over tangy mango salsa and peppery rocket leaves led on to a Punjabi flavour-fest!

Domes of perfectly cooked rice accompanied fragrantly delicious chicken with peppers in a sumptuous golden sauce. Baby aubergines and potatoes gave our beautifully presented plates the look of a still-life painting, a painting we could eat! Crisp and puffy bhatura breads were just perfect for dipping and

scooping up the very last morsels of this savoury extravaganza. And to finish? Obviously no meal is complete without chocolate and ours ended with a darkly wicked mousse piped into coffee cups, a fresh fruit skewer on the side. ‘Vicereine’ offers an exotic twist to catering for all events, from corporate to intimate.

Accomplished chef Surinder brings the essence of India into the home, creating ambience and food fit for any maharajah! Cocktail parties come alive with her spicy finger food and canapes, while tea parties enter a whole new dimension with her sweet, sweet treats! So for something totally different I can heartily recommend the right

royal experience of eating with ‘Vicereine’. Caroline Aston

www.vicereine.co.uk 07814 620 198 surinder@vicereine.co.uk

Eglantine Vineyard Nottinghamshire

We are the proud producers of International Award Winning dessert wine ‘North Star’. We also make sparkling, red, white, rose and cherry wine and mead made from our own honey. Come and see the vineyard and the winery, we are open every day, 10.00am till 6.00pm. We also welcome tour groups throughout the Summer season! For details see www.eglantinevineyard.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @vskuriat Telephone 01509 852386

C H R I ST M A S I D E A S F RO M T H E L A N G TO N B R E W E RY HAVING A CHRISTMAS PARTY? Why not buy some quality ales direct from the brewery? Available in 72 pint or 36 pint metal casks. Or to save the hassle of having to settle the beer, or return the barrel afterwards, why not have a 20 ltr (approx 35 pt) or 10 ltr (approx 17 pts) polybox? We have a good selection of beers to suit all tastes, including Innkeeper, our special Christmas brew. INDIVIDUAL GIFTS Can’t decide what to give a friend who enjoys a pint? We have 3-btle and 6-btle Gift Packs which would just fit the bill! Or how about one of our 2ltr bottles of our Inclined Plane (the most popular of our beers) or Innkeeper? PERSONALISED BOTTLES Always a great way to mark a special occasion. With a minimum order of 3 bottles, we can label the beer of your choice with your own picture or design, name and message. Contact us on 01858 540116

info@langtonbrewery.co.uk

or why not visit our shop, open 7 days a week from 28th November up to Christmas Eve at The Christmas Barn, Grange Farm, Thorpe Langton, Market Harborough LE16 7TU NICHE | 82

Fine & Fabulous Food

Wining and Dining We have a college trip to Bordeaux that took place in 1989 to thank for the fabulous wine shop, Duncan Murray Wines in Market Harborough. Duncan discovered his passion for wine on his class trip and has since tried and tasted many wines searching for only the very best to offer to us. His vision was to give customers a drinks-buying experience with a difference by offering great advice and a superb choice of wines, beer and spirits all served up with the teams ‘infectious enthusiasm.’

Award-winningwines, wines, Award-winning beersand andspirits spirits beers with personality Served, as suggested, with sweet succulent sea bass the Picpoul De Pinet paired well with a dry with personality freshness and zesty fruity flavours. Lemon and lime complimented the sea bass wonderfully along We decided to try out some wines that were new to us. Duncan recommended the Picpoul De Pinet; exclusive to the UK we might add! a crisp white wine and Chateau Du Vieux Parc Corbieres, a meaty red.

with hints of green apple. Its light enticing scent and taste had us reaching for our glasses more The Duncan Murray Wines team is at the ready to than we’d anticipated! The Duncan Murray Wines team is at the ready to advise you on fantastic food pairings, party drinks, advise you onideas fantastic drinks, great gift and afood hugepairings, amountparty of amazing, gift ideas and aChateau huge amount ofbeers amazing, Venison sausages were recommended by great Duncan for and theaffordable Du Vieux flavoursome wines, and Parc spirits.Corbieres. flavoursome and affordable wines, beers and spirits. Saturday tastings from The elegant, soft and velvety robust red was• Free deep and dark with a 12-3pm mixture of peppery • Free Saturday tastings from 12-3pm • Bespoke wine tastings available notes, dark chocolate and red and black berry-ness. The richavailable intensity of the wine • Bespoke wine tastings • Wines from small producers would also go down very well on a dinner •date or barbeque, we think. Wines small and producers • Salefrom or return glass hire for special events • Sale or return and glass hire for special events • Local and nationwide delivery • Local andtry nationwide delivery Visit one of Duncan’s free Saturday tastings and for yourself! We look forward to welcoming you soon. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

“Its light enticing scent and taste had us reaching for our glasses more than we’d anticipated!“

www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk

10 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough LE16 7LT 10Tel: Adam & Eve464935 Street, Market LE16 7LT 01858 Email:Harborough info@duncanmurraywines.co.uk Web: www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk Tel: 01858 464935 Email: info@duncanmurraywines.co.uk Web: www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk

Award-winning wines, beers and spirits with personality The Duncan Murray Wines team is at the ready to advise you on fantastic food pairings, party drinks, great gift ideas and a huge amount of amazing, flavoursome and affordable wines, beers and spirits. • Free Saturday tastings from 12-3pm • Bespoke wine tastings available • Wines from small producers • Sale or return and glass hire for special events • Local and nationwide delivery We look forward to welcoming you soon. 10 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough LE16 7LT Tel: 01858 464935 Email: info@duncanmurraywines.co.uk Web: www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk

NICHE | 83

We dined on a diet! We at Niche are proud to be able to offer not only our printed magazine but a whole host of events, one of which is the U Fit Studio ‘Dining on a Diet’ series, created to give diners sticking to a healthy lifestyle the freedom to dine out with friends – guilt free! We highlight the most recent two here and are pleased so say our next is to held at North Bar and Kitchen on November 19th, tickets are available through EventBrite website. Joe Hanney, who owns U Fit Studio

on Barkby Road, worked with Indian restaurant Chutney Ivy, on Halford Street, to host the Indian dining experience, which attracted 55 guests, including former Leicester City player, Steve Walsh. Joe says, “Many of my clients told me how hard it was to make healthy choices when dining out, so I realised there was an opportunity to create an event that would help to take the confusion out of eating out. There was particular confusion and lack of knowledge about Indian

cuisine so involving Chutney Ivy and their expertise really helped. “I am now working with an exclusive selection of restaurants to develop their existing menus in order to offer diners lower calorie or healthier options. We then invite diners to come and discover how eating in a restaurant doesn’t have to be a daunting or calorific experience for those who are on a diet or trying to eat healthier. It’s about educating people on making better choices when eating out, without feeling

like they have to go without, so that might be swapping chips for sweet potato or choosing a dish that’s higher in protein. “The event was sold out and the feedback we have had from everyone who attended has been fantastic. The enthusiasm they have shown demonstrates that there is a real need for events such as this.” A total of 46 diners, including Neil Watson, Travaugh Wright and Billy Reeda of the Leicester Riders

basketball team, tucked into a seven course taster menu at the White Peacock, on New Walk, which included a trio of bloody Mary, roasted wood pigeon and Cotswold white chicken. Joe worked with chef patron Phillip Sharpe to devise a mouth-watering, yet healthy, combination of dishes that proved a big hit with diners. Attendees, including people from the business community and local food bloggers, also dug deep to raise an impressive £100 for

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy charity Alex’s Wish at the event, which was organised with help from over very own Jenny Cross. Joe comments: “We are thrilled with the turnout for this event and with all of the positive feedback we have received from diners who joined us at the White Peacock.

www.ufitstudio.co.uk www.chutneyivy.com www.the-white-peacock.co.uk

Talk Business

NICHE | 86

Talk Business

The Tax Benefits Of Thinking Inside ‘The Box’

Do you really know who you will be waking up to?

The Patent Box is the most exciting tax relief for innovation to be introduced in more than a decade. Ultimately it could save many thousands of pounds for companies who make trading profits through exploiting patents.

You may have read about the highly publicised story of the Algerian groom who wanted to sue his new bride after waking up next to her and finding her completely unrecognisable without make up. This is comical, but we use this story to highlight the need for Pre Nuptial Agreements.

Patent Box is being phased in over five years from 1 April 2013, with companies enjoying reduced corporation tax rates on its profits sliding down to 10% in 2017/18. The current Patent Box scheme will run until 2021 but time is short, as the scheme will close to new entrants in June 2016. If you are a trading company with profits from exploiting patents after 31 March 2013, you might want to consider what Patent Box relief could do for you. First, you’ll need to ask the following questions: 1) Does your company own patents which it exploits as part of its trade? 2) Does your company exploit someone else’s patent under an exclusive licence? 3) Does your company have intellectual property that could be patented so that Patent Box relief can be claimed? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, then Patent Box may well be available to you. If you would like to explore this further please contact me to arrange for one of our Patent Box specialists to speak with you – Call Mark Torr on 01162 423 400 www.torrwaterfield.co.uk

What if your partner was not only concealing their true looks from you but also other traits and characteristics which you had not signed up for prior to marriage? It is unfortunately a sad but very realistic statistic that 42% of marriages will end in divorce 1 and so with these odds in mind, surely the business savvy out there would take precautions before entering into such an important contact?! Unfortunately not! Whilst businessmen and women deliberate for hours, weeks and months over the terms of a contract appertaining to their business affairs, many will not even give a second thought to entering into a Pre Nuptial Agreement prior to marriage (which could potentially save them thousands should their marriage break down in the future). If you are contemplating marriage and wish to protect yourself in the event of the relationship breaking down, please contact one of the specialist family lawyers at Glynis Wright & Co today on 0116 238 5680 or visit our website at www.glyniswright.co.uk

Hinckley & Rugby Building Society is having a busy – and a very successful – 2015. Not only is the Society celebrating its landmark 150th anniversary, it has also been named Company of the Year by the business volunteering charity Leicestershire Cares. The annual awards allow Leicestershire Cares to celebrate the many ways in which employers and their staff help those in need in the county. Hinckley & Rugby participates in several Cares projects, including several staff members spending an hour each week at Manorfield Primary School in Stoney Stanton, where they work one-to-one with children to boost their numeracy skills. Staff are also involved in a similar scheme helping youngsters with reading and regularly volunteer their time assisting teenagers with interview skills, passing on valuable advice and tips and working on their confidence. The Society is heavily involved in the charity’s annual Collect 4 Christmas appeal and last autumn played a leading role in Cares’ Coat Drive, which saw winter coats donated through Hinckley & Rugby branches en route to keeping men, women and children warm through the winter. Carla Loughrey, assistant marketing and PR manager at Hinckley & Rugby, said: “Being part of Leicestershire Cares means a lot to our staff. It’s a real privilege to get the opportunity to be involved with all the great work Cares organises in the local community.” Monica Stark, director of Leicestershire Cares, said: “Hinckley & Rugby has put so much into so many of our activities. Huge congratulations and many thanks to the Society and its staff.” www.hrbs.co.uk NICHE | 87

Connecting People, Businesses and Opportunities - it’s not just a strapline With the exception of sole-traders; attracting, retaining and developing employees to deliver the service or goods your business supplies is crucial to the success of any enterprise. Like any professional service, there are specialists who can help. You can attempt ‘DIY’ for accountancy, marketing or recruitment but if you want maximum efficiency and optimum results, it’s wise to buy

expertise in. ER Recruitment is now entering its third year, with Eileen’s 22 years professional experience and a skilled team of 8; sourced from industry and recruitment specialists, it is little wonder that businesses throughout Leicestershire are turning to this team to help them complete their ‘people puzzle’. 2014/15 has seen a turnaround after recession and evidence suggests that businesses are confident, prospering and, as a result, on the lookout for the talent that will help them to create sustainable

Connecting People, Businesses and Opportunities NICHE | 88

growth for the future. And this is particularly prevalent in professional sectors. In fact, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported earlier this year that the employment rate now stands at 73.3%, the highest rate of people in work since the ONS began keeping records in 1971. Many candidates currently seeking opportunities may look at that and think there are no new vacancies available as so many people return to work. However, the opposite is true. As businesses experience an upturn in their respective marketplaces, which necessitate

Talk Business

staffing increases, so they appear to find an ever-increasing shortage of candidates with the skill sets they need. Eileen told us, “The recruitment market is very much candidate driven at the moment; opportunities are plentiful and good candidates are highly valued.” As a direct result of client demands, ER Recruitment have successfully launched two further specialisms to add to their portfolio with legal and insurance and financial services now firmly part of the package and plans underway to double their own headcount over the coming months.

they turn to for help with people – strategy, skills audits, consultancy and development – people are our passion and we can offer much more than companies may realise at first. We even sit in on some client’s Board Meetings to ensure we can provide the right input at the right time. The more we can work WITH a client, the better the results.” The approach taken is more holistic than the past, and ER recruitment take this one stage further. It may come as a shock to some newer clients, but their immediate instinct is not always to recruit.

Qdos Director Toni Robinson explains,“Qdos have been working with ER Recruitment for a number But perhaps one of the primary of years across all of their specialist industry changes is in recruitment sectors. We are delighted that ER itself. In the early 90’s recruitment Recruitment have launched the practices earned themselves a legal and insurance divisions, which reputation akin to car salesmen compliments the remainder of their and in an unregulated sector entry specialist sectors. It is important was easy, finding quality was not. to Qdos that each With the strict “it is little wonder that member of staff regulations on working at ER is a immigration, tax businesses throughout true expert in their and employment field, having not Leicestershire are now imposed, only recruitment the recruitment turning to this team to experience but industry itself has competence in their seen a scaling help them complete their actual discipline. back of practices, Working with ER as people puzzle” as disreputable an extension to our companies could no own business is the most cost efficient way of recruiting longer survive under the radar. talent for Qdos and it is a real pleasure working with them.” “Recruitment is so much more than filling seats (or, it needs to be to be valuable). It’s about becoming an extension of your client’s businesses and taking the time to understand not only their industry but their culture and their future visions. Knowing the issues they face and working with them closely to advise and address them.” Eileen added, “It’s not just a case of CV matching and drawing up an invoice. We want our clients to be long-term partners with us, and be the people

We need to delve a little deeper, identify the skill sets the business needs and help to look at how current people are being managed. It may be a case that clients are losing key employees to competitors and the first step is to find out why, to identify if there are opportunities for current staff to upskill and, to have a strategy in place for managing employees and succession.

Accountancy & Finance

Customer Service & Sales

Human Resources

Insurance & Financial Services

Legal

f ce

(inc Marketing)

Eileen explained, “Sometimes an external, objective, insight can be extremely valuable. And if we help to identify a need which requires additional support or training then we can connect local businesses to one another to support the growth of both. Filling an immediate need is certainly necessary but we want to look at the longerterm as well and help to secure a skilled workforce for clients, which they can retain and add to as the business evolves.”

www.eileenrichards.co.uk 0116 254 9710

NICHE | 89

Naughty or Nice? HR will know... The office party at Christmas is supposed to be a time to celebrate the successes of the year…let your hair down and relax…but not too much, or you’ll be seeing in the new year with HR!

workplace regardless of the venue and timing. Employers shouldn’t be nervous…instead follow these simple tips to ensure that you avoid being on HR’s naughty list in 2016: 1. If you are supplying alcohol you may be legally responsible for the employee’s welfare so think about sensible volumes. 2. Think about accommodation and travel for those employees who are drinking.

Businesses are often confused about their liabilities at the office party but the law is clear, the office party is seen to be an extension of the

3. As Managers, you should avoid discussing employment matters such as salary, promotion, transfers, grievances etc…particularly as you might not recall the conversation later! 4. You may want to limit the mistletoe; unwanted sexual

harassment is not a good recipe for the new year. 5. Have a great night – celebrate and congratulate your teams’ successes – but if there are complaints… investigate them immediately and follow a fair and proper process.

“Qdos would like to wish all Niche readers a very merry Christmas and encourage you to make 2016 a winning year by ensuring that your HR strategy is working in line with your business strategy.” Give Qdos a call on 01455 852 028 to discuss how we can help you.

Make good HR practices top of your business resolutions list Qdos offer a range of HR services that are available on short term contracts and can be tailored to suit your precise requirements.

Talk Business

Contracts explained

Every day, millions of contracts are made and performed. Contracts, from the very simple to the most complicated are governed by many of the same laws. In many cases, a verbal contract made between two individuals is as enforceable as a 100 page document executed between two corporations after months of negotiations, as long as the contractual ingredients are present. So why do some businesses provide written documentation and others do not bother? “It depends upon the type of transaction. Sometimes, it isn’t practical, but in many cases, having a written contract is essential and advisable. Having it written down provides certainty. It is not one person’s word against another’s.” says contract specialist Greg Hollingsworth. “Contractual documents create a record of a transaction, and in some cases, written contracts or written information is required by law. It is helpful to everyone, so both sides understand what their rights and obligations are, which can help contracts run smoothly or give guidance on what happens if things do go wrong.” At Hollingsworth, the team gets involved in both the preparation and negotiation of contractual documents and terms and conditions. They also help with problems when contracts go wrong. This can be the supply of poor quality goods or non-payment of invoices. “We get asked about what protection contractual documents we can provide. There is sometimes a misconception that if a business has its own contractual documents, they can save them from any problem. They don’t. For example, trying to exclude liability for everything that could go wrong! That just doesn’t work and trying to do so won’t stand up and creates problems for the business.” states Greg Hollingsworth are here for you to provide practical advice on making contracts work in businesses and to help out and solve legal problems that will arise from time to time. 0116 204 7260 19 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE www.hlegal.co.uk

Find out what Qdos can do for you 01455 852028

www.qdosconsulting.com

Leicester’s Leicester’s Business Business Professionals Professionals TheOnes OnesTo To The Watch Watch Photo accredited to Brill Creative

Advertising and has beenincreating Chris has a huge variety great relationships across Leicester, international experience and and the country, ever since. brought that to his role within senior management at Curve for With a current team of 12, Arch the past two years. provide clients with an ‘overarching’ suite of services; designed to make As Lead Producer of the theatre’s client’s lives easy and to create a adaption of Leicester’s own cohesive creative vision for their Sue Townsend’s Adrian Mole brand. production, a huge success which played to 17,000 people his stripes But, Joe told us as much as he at thecreating company so developing far have been loves and very bright. client’s visions that balance is Joe Nixon - CreativeCurve Director at Chris Statford-CEO Theatre Arch Creative Chris Stratford has earnt his merit Almostgaining 10 yearshis ago, Joe launched before current position Arch Creative, specialising Brand as Chief Executive of Curvein Theatre. Identity, Digital, Print and

Simon Cohen-CEO at Tigers Toni Robinson - Director at Qdos Consulting The CEO of Tigers is quite a role for anyone to take on, but, Simon has Qdos Consulting’s Toni taken it by the horns forRobinson the last heads up their Consultancy three years and to great success. NICHE | 92

the key to his continued success, This, combined his but ability he told us, “It’s awith cliche, it isto expand and diversify the current important to maintain the work-life artistic production his new balance. There’s nomeans point working role is an exciting one for the all hours if you’re too tired (orcity. don’t have any time) to enjoy the fruit of your labours.” His careerspecialising in Rugby began Business, in tax,playing VAT, for his town’s team and he has HR, HS and training services. since set up rugby holidays for children. He took a slight Toni explained, “The clientdiversion with a Law degree but this led experience at Qdos is important him right back to sports where to me, working with bespoke HRhe was agent to a number of rugby and HS professionals should not players including Underwood only assist them inTony achieving their and eventually lawyer to the be Rugby business goals, but it should a players association working on pleasant and fun experience.” deals for the England and British Lions teams. Heclients became head So why do her ‘sing’ herof rugby operations at Tigers in praises? “ I have been recently2005, joined the board in 2011 and then to introduced to 19 Gale, a Chinese his major city role as CEO in 2012. restaurant in the Cultural Quarter Tigers are nearing completion of of Leicester. The food is amazing, the service new Caterpillar stand. We can’t is excellent – and if you wait toa see Simon fancy littlewhere fun; you can Cohen try the takes the club next! karaoke ... our clients love it!”

Asit Jansari-Director at Coach at Joe Hanney - Managing Holllingsworths Solicitors U Fit Studio Asit has built a strong and Infamous for their ability tosteady help reputation for himself. clients transform their Starting lifestyles;out as Associate at Josiah U Fit Studio’sSolicitor unique approach Hinks for three and a half years he to fitness is designed to coach, then moved Hollingsworth educate and to train you into theas best Associate Director. physical and mental shape you’ll have been in for years (or ever!). His skills here were so highly regarded as avidly a fair, approachable Joe himself pursues personal and professional that development, he solicitor explained, “One reflected the companies ethos so of our core values is pursue growth well he soon became at and constant learning.Director Education the firm. is the most powerful weapon we have.” Clients across the county remark on how he hastoinfluenced Withmuch aspirations introducetheir businesses positive way U Fit Studiointoa the world, wemaking him the solicitor to watch hereofin asked “What’s your definition the Midlands. success?”, “Being able to recognise that you’ve been successful, then letting it go to create space for more success!”; exactly what he is doing.

Talk Business

Kevyn Robins-Frog Sports Joel Mulloy - Group Island Director at Abel Alarms Kevyn has been one to watch in London for over years andjoining since Celebrating their15 50th year, he has relocated to set up roots in Abel as an IT technician, his passion Leicester we are certainly lucky to and vision has seen him rise

have him.the ranks, appointed Group through Director in November 2011. Kevyn has worked as both digital and asked e-commerce manager We who in global business has he at various major companies including emulated to reach such success, Doc Martins, Karan and now “I’ve not triedDonna to be like anyone but his current position Frog Island just been myself andatbelieved in my own ability and ideas.”; well, his Sports. honesty and sincerity has served him better than anyone else could! A strong contender in the world of marketing Kevyn’s ability and So what about the future? Joel drive combined with his experience explained, “I’d like see the in such a variety ofto environments company butto not just within makes himgrow a force reckon with. the security industry; and to become the leaders new markets He is already makinginwaves at Frog -Island creating Abel not just as a security and is sure to become a company but aswithin a brand that name to watch Leicestershire everyone knows and trusts.” too.

environment inawhich it of can build Having gained wealth and grow. qualifications including higher

Cara de Faye - Co-founder at The Janie Morgan-Wood-Founder and Business House chair of the Leicester Textiles Trust Cara de Faye was partofofthe the duo As founder and chair who founded The Business House Leicester Textiles Trust, Janie to help business to showcase Morgan-Wood is a vital part of the themselves and develop an textile and design industry.

degrees at De Montfort and We askedUniversities, Cara what sparked her Leicester Janie then interest in business, “At the age went on to and become Director of 15 I used to work for Boots as a of Studies at Gateway College ‘stock replenisher’ (shelf stacker). where she combined this post with I loved the job as we used to start national roles. work before the shop opened so I could see the ‘behind the scenes’ Her role now aims to celebrate operation and it started my interest the history of local textiles, ignite in business.” innovation and deliver the right skills to people passionate to learn. One-half of the home of business development, social media A member of the student and event management inadvisory board for the Association of Leicestershire, Cara enthused, Suppliers to the British Clothing “There are so many fantastic Industry (ASBCI) and is part businesses in this region and of wethe New Engineering Foundation want to showcase this and be (NEF) proud Intelligent College to be a part of it.” Network.

Photo accredited to Brill Creative

Aatin Anadkat - Owner & Manager Mark Lucas -Partner at Hotel Maiyango People For the person, past 10 Mark years,Lucas, Aatin has been working Michael Anadkat has been for leading John Flooring for 27 years withas Leicester’s hospitality industry prestigious clients such as Clarins the visionary of boutique hotel and and Edinburgh Airport. restaurant, Hotel Maiyango. As he waswinning about to join the army Recently themselves a at 16 with start date in hand, alarm VisitEngland award for Excellence bells rang and hetheir rushed and celebrating 10thto the careers office and got an interview successful year, Maiyango is a where he spent three hours place of inspiration, innovation and chatting with Michael John himself. experience. Twenty-seven years on, and recently appointed as a partner When asked which business in the business, Mark has all the professional inspired him, Aatin hands on experience and individual explained, “There is not just one but manufacturers training deal many; they all have oneto key thing in efficiently with any task. Every job common though - they understand has its less glamorous tasks and what their customers want.” Mark treats these as important as the rest. his sales skills at Phones4U Refining whilst studying, it was Aatin’s world Michael’s positive influence has travels which inspired the creation instilled in him that a business of Hotel Maiyango, bringing global should be taken right from influences to thecare tasteofbuds the maintenance of the building of Leicester. through to the complexities of planning for expansion. Like a breath of fresh the to Hotel Maiyango Photo air, accredited theatre enthusiast has helped the company become more responsive with specialised software and systems. The flooring experts have remained humble throughout the years but with their 70th anniversary coming up, Mark looks forward to pushing for expansion across the UK.

Image from Tom Wren at Creative by Wren

If you know of a deserving star in the business world get in touch for them to be featured in the ‘Ones to watch’ NICHE | 93

Family law specialists who are always in tune with the needs of their clients. Glynis Wright and her team of solicitors offer a highly specialised family law and mediation service covering:DIVORCE FINANCIAL SETTLEMENTS MEDIATION DISPUTES OVER CHILDREN PRE & POST NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS LIVING TOGETHER AGREEMENTS

SUSHMA KOTECHA

GAYLE ROWLEY

CALL US ON:

0116 238 5680 OR FIND OUT MORE AT:

www.glyniswright.co.uk

NICHE | 94

R PA RT N

AT I

X TA

HIP

THE

Talk Business

SPECI

“We contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle” Sir Winston Churchill

Taxation changes to dividend income equate to a tax rise for small businesses In our last column we touched on how tax reforms to the dividend system were among the more unwelcome changes announced in the Chancellor’s Summer Budget. Since then more details on how the revised regime will work have been revealed by HMRC – and it’s fair to say that they don’t make for pleasant reading for smaller businesses. Under the current regime, if you paid yourself a salary from your company of less than the current personal allowance, and took the rest of your income in dividends, you would not pay any Income Tax on salary or dividends until your total pay exceeded £43,000. Under the new system this will no longer be the case. Apart from the personal allowance, the first £5,000 of dividend income will be tax-free, after which all further dividends will be taxed at a minimum rate of 7.5%. This means that somebody paying themselves no more than £43,000 out of their own company would get £16,000 tax free (£11,000 personal allowance and £5,000 dividend allowance) with the next £27,000 taxed at 7.5%, giving a tax bill of £2,025. It might not seem much, but this is £2,025 more than under the current regime. If your income exceeds £43,000, dividends will be taxed at 32.5 per cent on top of the £5,000 allowance, and if you earn more than £150,000 a year, the tax rate will be 38.1 per cent. It’s a major tax increase for everybody but particularly for hard-working, entrepreneurial small business owners who have traditionally paid themselves a small salary and large dividends.

UK Tax legislation is the most complex in the world and, when you’re looking at the Taxation Of Company Reorganisations, Pete, literally, wrote the book The Miller Partnership are experts in all aspects of corporation tax, specialties include: Taxation of corporate transactions, mergers, acquisitions, disposals, demergers, reorganisations & reconstructions HMRC clearances Transactions in securities anti-avoidance legislation Taxation of corporate intangible assets & goodwill Disguised remuneration Taxation of partnerships Patent Box

T: 0116 208 1020 M: 07802197269 The Miller Partnership 5 Museum Square, Leicester LE1 6UF

www.themillerpartnership.com pete.miller@themillerpartnership.com NICHE | 95

PROFESSIONAL, FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL LEGAL SERVICE

Your Legal Solution for work and home: Wecan canhelp helpyour your We businesswith: with: business Commercial CommercialAgreements Agreements & Contracts and Contracts Commercial Disputes Commercial Disputes and DebtRecovery Recovery Debt Restrictive Covenants in Restrictive Covenants in Employment Contracts Employment Contracts Director and Partnership Disputes Director and Shareholder, Partnership Disputes

We We can canhelp help you with: you with: Employment Law Services House Sales and Purchases Consumer Disputes Re-Mortgages Boundary and Neighbour Transfers of Equity Issues Grants of Probate & Wills Start Up advice Business Consumer Issues & Disputes

0116 204 7260 Hollingsworths Solicitors 19 New Walk, Leicester LE1 6TE Email: mail@hlegal.co.uk

Litigation NICHE | 96

Commercial

Debt Recovery

Employment

Corporate Recovery and Insolvency

Talk Business

Legal solutions for you When you as an individual or a business have a legal services problem and need help and advice, who do you turn to? It can be difficult to know who is the right fit for you. Holllingsworths are that fit. Hollingsworths are a specialist Litigation and Commercial Law Firm, and give a professional, friendly and approachable service to all those looking for legal help with practical, real solution focused advice and support. Their Leicester practice provides legal services for individuals and businesses across Leicestershire and they always provide clear, concise and costeffective advice. Director Greg Hollingsworth first opened the practice’s doors in 2011. Having worked in the Leicester legal market since 1992, originally at a national law firm, his reputation for high quality service had been firmly established in the 10 years when he was as a partner at Bradshaw Hollingsworth. Greg has built a reputation for providing high quality ‘big firm’ advice in the environment of a niche client friendly practice. It’s this reputation and commitment to client’s needs that have helped the Hollingsworths name grow to become one of the most highly regarded legal practices in Leicestershire. So now we know who they are,

what is it that Hollingsworths can do for you? Well, they can do quite a lot it turns out! They give the following services and of course experienced advice: • Litigation and Dispute Resolution • Commercial and Business Law • Employment Law • Commercial agreements • Debt Recovery • Insolvency and Bankruptcy Advice • Wills and Probate

So far so good, but why should you choose Hollingsworths? Well, for a start they are more than a provider of legal services, it’s the way they provide them that makes them who they are. It’s always with an approachable manner, less jargon and more clarity and all with a human touch that they deal with anything. This is a refreshing approach in this industry and by creating a world where the legal services can be understood more by the clients, it means that no one is left feeling in the dark. It’s this approach, combined with their knowledge and experience of course, that got them where they are today and it’s for these reasons that they will be the right legal

team for you. No matter the size of the concern for you or your business they are more than happy to help and with clients turning to them time and time again, you can be assured that they provide the kind of service that has people recommending them with no hesitation at all. Wilf Leek at Carter Design Group Limited, a large business, is one such client; ‘We value Hollingsworths’ pragmatic yet creative response to any issue we have needed to deal with. They are our first port of call when any commercial legal issues arise in the course of managing our business.’ Small business owners value their services just as much; Sue Witts at ASW; ‘We have used Hollingsworths’ services on many occasions. Their support for small business owners is outstanding and I would recommend them time after time. Their advice is clear, practical and solution focused.’ Where can you find them? Well, they are at the end of this phone number for a start: 0116 204 7260 Or, you can always pop in at their office:

19 New Walk Leicester LE1 6TE NICHE | 97

Summer Budget 2015

Discrimination - Be aware!

Employers

Many employers are aware that there is a two year qualifying period to make an unfair dismissal claim via means of an employment tribunal. However there is no qualifying period for an employee to make a discrimination claim

A new National Living Wage for over 25’s from April 2016 is £7.20 per hour, rising to £9 by 2020. The corporation tax rate will be reduced from 20% to 19% in 2017. National Insurance employer allowance to be increased from £2000 to £3000 per year as of April 2016 for small firms. Excellent news for business owners! However, a new dividend tax regime will mean that business owners will suffer through their personal tax. The new scheme details £5000 of tax free dividends, followed by 7.5% tax on any dividends falling within the £43,000 basic rate threshold and 32.5% tax on any dividends falling in the higher rate threshold. Director/ Shareholders

Discrimination and fairness in the workplace is supported by law via the Equality Act 2010. Under this legislation it is unlawful to discriminate via nine specific areas known as protected characteristics. The protected characteristics are age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. In order to stay within the law an employer should make sure that they promote equality and diversity in order to prevent discrimination. An employer should have a clear policy in place so all within the workplace know what is acceptable. Also if you are in receipt of any complaint or grievance relating to discrimination you should be confident as an employer how to deal with such a situation.

A new dividend tax regime will mean that business owners will begin to pay personal tax on their drawings. The new scheme details £5000 of tax free dividends, followed by 7.5% tax on any dividends falling within the £43,000 basic rate threshold and 32.5% tax on any dividends above this. Higher rate payers will be used to the higher rate dividend tax (currently 25%). But many owners currently staying just beneath higher rate thresholds will find themselves with a £2k tax bill each year.

If in doubt you should ensure that seek assistance from an human resources or employment law specialist. At Atom HR we can help!

www.whitehallaccountants.co.uk

ivan@atomhrconsulting.com

NICHE | 98

Atom HR because understanding human resources and employment law should not be like splitting the atom!

Health and Safety Training Simplified Written by Sam Green from Greens Consultancy Services

As a business owner did you know every employer has to appoint a competent person to deal with Health and Safety? Rather than risking it yourself or paying an external consultant, a lot of business owners may find the most cost effective way to address health and safety is to train a trusted member of their team to manage health and safety. Wouldn’t it be good if you could send a member of staff on just one course, which would give them all the tools they need to meet that requirement? IOSH Managing Safely does just that and covers;

•Assessing Risks •Controlling Risks

•Understanding Legal Responsibilities

•Dealing With Hazards •Investigating Accidents

•Measuring Safety Performance (Checks and Inspections)

•Environmental Management The course includes four days of lessons with a registered instructor, a short test and a practical project and can be delivered at one of our training centres in Leicestershire. Successful delegates are awarded an IOSH Managing Safely Certificate, which meets the legal requirement for appointment and does not expire. For more information contact Greens Consultancy Services Ltd on 0116 216 9224 or info@greensconsultancy.co.uk Greens Consultancy Services Ltd are licenced to deliver Managing Safely by The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). www.iosh.co.uk

Talk Business

With our help... You can make sure everything adds up for your business. Our team of experts are not just specialists in their field, they are also friendly, approachable and on hand to offer you professional advice. THEY CAN HELP YOU WITH:

Accountancy

Liaison with HMRC

Audit

Payroll

Book-keeping

Sage training

Business development

Tax advice and management

Business start-ups

VAT returns

For more details of how the torrwaterfield team can support your business, arrange a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no obligationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meeting.

FREE ADVICE LINE:

0800 652 1614 info@torrwaterfield.co.uk www.torrwaterfield.co.uk Park House 37 Clarence Street Leicester LE1 3RW NICHE | 99

Communicate with confidence! City Communications is the brainchild of the Morris family who have worked in and around Leicester since the early 90’s. A casual conversation between Jon, who was then the Finance Director of a successful Leicestershire based childcare group, and his son James about an ongoing BT contract renewal led to James suggesting and creating a new telecoms business which then delivered an immediate 40% reduction in telephone costs for the group. James then took the initiative to start a new business and run it himself since which time he really hasn’t looked back. Since its conception the business has grown by giving attention to detail and by being dedicated to quality

customer service that the big companies consistently fail to deliver. Now based in Syston, City Communications is competing well with the big boys, BT and Virgin, and is currently one of the fastest growing telecoms providers in the East Midlands. The company offers a full package of business services to clients, from phone lines and broadband to the very latest in technology; for example using internet services to dramatically reduce telephone costs. City Communications is so sure it will be able save business customers money, a free consultation service is now offered to undertake a full review of existing systems and potential cost effective alternatives. For the technically minded there is access to

ISDN2 & 30, business mobile and VOIP systems ready for fast installation. The next step for Niche readers is to visit City Communication’s website to browse the services on offer. An email or telephone call to the company will produce a fast and efficient response to any query. Add to that a very special incentive to Niche readers of an introductory discount of 50% off your first invoice if you switch to City Communications after reading this article. Just quote Niche Magazine when you contact us. 01162 514344 www.city-communictions.uk

City Communications is a Leicester based company that was established in June 2012. We are one the fastest growing telecoms companies in the East Midlands and have technology to support businesses through the UK. We offer innovative business products and services to ensure your business runs as successfully as possible. We are confident and competitive and take pride in making sure that our clients needs are identified so that we can extend your communication abilities and your clients become aware of you. City Communications offers a clear gateway to communicate effectively with potential customers. We help you to become aware of your marketplace and social landscape. We act as a platform to business success and we are suitable for any type of business. We offer a complete set of services that will give you a high quality of phone lines, broadband, hosting and customer service.

Unbeaten for price and reliability City Communications Ltd Suite 3, Elizabeth House, 73 High Street, Syston Leicester LE7 1GQ 01162 514344 sales@city-communciations.co.uk

Telecomms

Digital Marketing

Web Management

In need of an I.T specialist...? Tailored solutions for all - let’s talk 0844 372 9893 www.kazzoo.com NICHE | 100

IT Support

Talk Business

Attract more clients with mi360 It is often said that ‘a picture paints a thousand words’. Studies show that we buy 80% of products and services based on the visual impression we are left with, so, imagine the effectiveness of your potential clients being able to take a peek inside your business venue without even stepping foot in it? Helping your clients get a true picture of your business like this is highly effective and with award winning company mi360 virtual tours, you can give your clients the perfect showcase of your company and as a result boost your business. Mi360 are the experts in showcasing your business in the virtual medium. They will bring your venue to life, creating a way in for your potential clients. A highly cost effective method of marketing, the virtual tour will help clients choose you every time. Mi360’s experience and skills, combined with their exceptional customer services make them the only team for the job! They use only the best equipment to capture your venue and their 360 degree virtual tours allow for a wide range of interactive services including floor plans, ‘pop-up’ images and information as well as photo galleries and much more besides. The team at mi360 can also provide aerial photographs and aerial videos too, allowing clients to get a true picture of your venue in its full glory. They are also Google certified Trusted Photographer’s. Clients who have benefitted from mi360 since its beginnings in 2012 include Leicester Tigers, Leicester Cricket Club, Bradgate Park, Leicester University College Court Conference Centre, Quorn Grange Hotel and Launde Abbey. Watch your business attract more clients just as these prestigious companies have done. They have also produced tours for B&B’s, restaurants, pubs, shops, schools, boats, executive coaches and other types of businesses. Contact the team today for a friendly chat and details on how you can make your business grow with this cost effective, engaging and powerful 360 degree online digital marketing tool. Office: 0116 220 3004 Mobile: 07722 445 182 www.mi360.co.uk

What makes a good Mobile App? You can’t help but feel a little in awe when you meet Aaron Wardle, Director at Swipe & Tap, a leading mobile software development company based in The Dock, Leicester’s innovative business technology hub. Aaron is an incredibly talented app developer with over 15 years of experience creating software solutions which solve complex business problems. Aaron’s company, Swipe & Tap, is on a mission to build great mobile app solutions for their customers, whether it’s to improve business processes or to boost brand awareness. Taking ideas from concept to reality, Swipe & Tap’s apps have successfully stayed at the top of the iTunes app store for several weeks and range from social media platforms to risk assessment and auditing apps. One recent project gave local firm, Charnwood Accountants, the ability to stand out from other accountancy practices by offering an app to track business turnover and sales targets - a true ‘Profit Predictor’. When visiting their clients, Charnwood Accountants regularly run calculations using an Excel spreadsheet to review and predict business revenue. Wanting a fresh and modern approach to helping their clients with their finances, Charnwood sought a mobile app which they could not only use themselves, but which could be offered freely to any business in need of such a useful tool.

A good app solves a problem or fulfils a need, just like any other product

From a boring Excel spreadsheet, a beautiful mobile app was created. Users can easily glance on the home screen to check their revenue targets, edit details and view charts to help them reach their financial goals. Clients who have tried the new app have found it simple to use and are already using it as a tool to check their business revenue. The app will be released to the public late October 2015. Do you have an idea for a mobile app? If so, please contact Aaron Wardle at Swipe & Tap on 0116 268 8722 email: hello@swipeandtap.co.uk or visit www.swipeandtap.co.uk NICHE | 101

Procrastination the Killer of Time

When is your CEO time?

We spend hours, weeks and years building and honing our skills and abilities to enable us to perform in our roles. Perfect...training, CPD, away days, building experience and CV...and then one of our behaviours we’d rather was not around pounces and inhibits our ability to perform...procrastination, indecision...

Being an entrepreneur isn’t easy, you work in your business all day everyday when do you get time to work on your business development and marketing? Working on your business is just as important as working in your business. PUT IT IN YOUR DIARY!!

All of us whatever our role have tasks, jobs, actions which we put off or get round to...or even deny and bury. “Procrastination is attitudes natural assassin. There is nothing so fatiguing than uncompleted tasks” William James What if you decided to seize the moment and complete that task... imagine the impact on your energy, attitude and motivation...do that job first and notice the difference it makes. We all, have a choice on our behaviours and can choose to enable ourselves to be our best and perform in our daily lives. So here’s the invitation...for the next 10 working days grab a highlighter and highlight the ‘round to it’ jobs, choose to action those jobs, go for it...Notice the impact the choice to action has on you and your day! I’ll join you and today I am going to do my filing! www.delphinustmc.co.uk vicky@delphinustmc.co.uk 01509 215 872

NICHE | 102

Schedule yourself a 2 hour slot every week to plan your business this is always a good thing to schedule into your Monday to help plan how you are going to work going forward. Then schedule in a 1 hour slot at the end of the week, Friday or Saturday to review your business and your finances. These diary slots will then help you focus your time and create a plan going forward to expand your business and encourage continual growth. We all want our businesses to grow and be successful. In order for that to happen we have to plan our business development and set targets to keep our business growing smooth and steady year after year. “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail” Benjamin Franklin If you need help planning call us for a free planning session on 0116 243 8585 www.completepa.co.uk

Talk Business

JOIN TODAY AND SAY YES TO

SAVINGS! Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices. We provide a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of speciality departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. We are confident in the quality and value of our products, and we stand behind them with our guarantee of satisfaction.

Join in the warehouse or online:

www.warehouses.costco.co.uk/membership The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT). Executive Trade Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT). Executive Individual Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Membership Criteria applies. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. Costco accepts cash, debit card, cheque or American Express

£10 VOUCHER COSTCO LEICESTER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 31/12/15.

T: 0116 269 0730

E: marketing123@costco.co.uk www.costco.co.uk

JNXXXX

Costco Leicester Westmoreland Ave, Thurmaston Leicester Leicestershire LE4 8PH

NICHE | 103

Are you looking for a good and reliable printer...look no further, the proof is in your hands

Streamline are proud to print Niche Magazine

“Razor sharp strategy combined with creativity and powerful storytelling will give you the results you want” Rachel Hargrave, Agency Director, RDZ PR

Raising your profile one story at a time

RDZ PR Ltd, 3 Barrow Road, Sileby, Leicestershire, LE12 7LW

0150 9813 913

www.rdz-pr.co.uk NICHE | 106

Talk Business

Crisis Comms for your business No-one, but no-one likes to think about disasters or crises but for companies of perhaps a certain size or involved in certain industries (for example heavy manufacturing, energy, hospitality, the animal / pet industry, and childcare) the truth of the matter is that accidents will happen. FACT - those companies with a well thought through crisis communication plan in place will fare far better and recover far faster than those who don’t. The good news is that it really isn’t rocket science when it comes to putting a pro-active plan in place. Rachel Hargrave, Agency Director at RDZ PR and an experienced PR crisis comms manager with over 15 years of on the ground experience says, “Companies who plan together, are open and honest about where the gaps are – especially in terms of skills, and are prepared to be pro-active in putting in place, and then regularly reviewing, a crisis comms plan will be in the minority for sure. That’s a real shame because outside of business we all know that when something big, hairy and unexpected happens we aren’t usually at our best thinking about how to respond. A clear plan helps enormously and can be put together quickly and simply with the

DON’T PANIC! 5. Gather back together as a team and review each response. From these individual responses collate one master response per crisis scenario 6. Ensure that up-to-date details of all concerned are kept in a central file that is made available to the members of the team. Updating this will be vital as people move, change personal mobile numbers etcetera 7. Ensure you have a ‘do not do’ checklist as well as fully worked through pro-active crisis plans. In the heat of a crisis this ‘do not do’ list will stop you from making all the really obvious errors that, with a clear head, you would ordinarily never, ever make 8. Review the plan regularly by which we mean at least once every six months and more regularly if you are in a particularly hazardous or quick moving industry. A plan is no good at all sitting in a draw getting dusty. Blow the dust oﬀ, review and amend as necessary. The same goes for the up-to-date contact details list From January to June 2016 Rachel will be running the following one day courses concentrating specifically on crisis comms planning. Only 10 places will be made available on each course.

full buy in of the leadership team and senior managers.” So where do you start? Here are Rachel’s top tips; 1. Gather together the team that will be responding IF a crisis took place 2. Work through what crises may occur

Tuesday 26th January 2016 & Tuesday 26th April 2016 Crisis Comms; Defining Your Crises & Putting a Pro-active Plan in Place Tuesday 23rd February 2016 & Tuesday 31st May 2016 Crisis Comms; Media Training – The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

3. Consider who would respond and then look carefully at whether they have all the right skills. Would they be comfortable talking to the Tuesday 29th March 2016 & Tuesday 28th June 2016 Crisis Comms; Reviewing Your Plan & Testing It In The Real World media – particularly if the media was hostile to them? If not then it’s time to get some quality media training in place, for example 4. Divide up into teams and separately block out a response to each diﬀerent crisis scenario

Course Costs: £375 + VAT per attendee, per course. Bespoke courses and in-house training is also provided. Available upon request.

Due to unprecedented demand, we are proud to announce our 2016 dates for our new Crisis Comms Workshops

NeEw W! NICHE | 107

...the agency with a

personal touch

Are you looking for an agency to act

Who are we?

A team of people who have experience of being ‘the client’ for many years. We know what it’s like to put your trust in the right agency.

as your marketing department? …

How are we different?

… Or some consultancy to

We have an integrated approach, working closely with you as a part of your team to achieve the very best. (Oh... and we go way beyond a time sheet!)

get you going?

Whatever you need, we’re here for you

Our experience? Lots! Leisure, hospitality and tourism, sport, education, business services, retail and more...

MARKETING NICHE | 108

Mocha Marketing @Mocha_Marketing

SOCIAL MEDIA

EVENTS

Talk Business

Networking...Time waster or business essential?? This time last year, I made a conscious decision to ‘up’ my networking efforts. I decided to give it a good year of networking at full speed and then review what effect this had on our business. The results?? Well, the hard facts are that our business has grown by 4 times in the last year, of which I attribute networking to 80% of this growth. But, and this is a big but ... Results from networking require patience. You have to be prepared to play the long game and NEVER expect to walk away from a networking event with a sale.

I’ve heard so many people say ‘it didn’t work for me after just one visit. That’s because they went in there with a hard sales pitch without any respect for taking the time to build relationships.

Plan it forward With the end of 2015 clearly in sight now is the time to ask the question, “How has this year been for you?” Did you achieve all your goals and objectives? Did you see the increase in sales and profit that you planned? Has your brand been at the forefront as you wished? If yes then huge congratulations are in order. If not, what happened? Learning from the good and the not so good can be hugely beneficial when creating your next twelve month plan. After all few of us want to repeat mistakes. So where does it all start from a PR point of view? It has to start with a clear set of agreed campaign objectives. Campaign objectives are nothing more and nothing less than, when achieved, they show what success looks like for you. An example could look like this: 1. To significantly raise our profile across; A. Local and regional media B. The media of interest to our clients C. Our trade media

I have met life-long colleagues and friends through networking and as a result, we often get referred to their network of contacts. Do it properly and put the effort in and the result will be like a giant snowball rolling down a massive hill without anything in its way to slow it down!

2. To build relationships with the media including journalists and bloggers so that we become the first port of call when topics relevant to our products, services and industry are being discussed

For more information about Mocha Marketing and how we can support you with your plans, please contact us on

3. To become known within our industry as thought leaders and to maximise on the opportunities this presents us with.

01332 865 431 visit www.mocha-marketing.co.uk or email me directly at gemma@mocha-marketing.co.uk

With a crystal clear set of campaign objectives you can create a focussed and strategic forward looking PR plan. For further details on this and how to build your plan please download your FREE Guide to PR at www.rdz-pr.co.uk

Clever Thinking To Make A Big Impression We recently exhibited at the NEC with our canvas business canversed.co.uk. Wanting to create some interest we designed a clever brochure that perpetually folds with four separate messages that keep repeating. During the two days we had people coming to our stand just to get one of our brochures, having been told about it by others in the hall. It was by far the most popular thing on our stand – even more than the chocolate we were giving away! – and proves how an innovative idea can make a real impact. Stepping out from the mundane can be a major benefit as you try to communicate in a busy and competitive environment. Have you ever thought about how you can stand out from the crowd with your business? Whether it’s improving your logo, working with a bold colour palette, creating a memorable campaign or a clever promotional idea, there are lots of ways of going to the next level. We have lots of experience with creative ideas around design and print that go beyond the ordinary, grab attention and make an impression. We are always happy to offer advice for free and respond to your individual requirements. Why not get in touch with us on 0116 2599955 or inspiration@soarvalleypress.co.uk and we can grab a coffee, sit down with you, and talk over your needs. www.soarvalleypress.co.uk

NICHE | 109

DESIGN + PRINT

Soar Valley Press

Turning your BIG ideas into reality We are here to help your business get noticed

Contact us today and we will help create the right solution to make a big impression 0116 259 9955 www.soarvalleypress.co.uk big@soarvalleypress.co.uk

Branding, brochures, adverts... we do it all NICHE | 84

Talk Business

Soar Valley Press : Clients Talk Soar Valley Press have been helping businesses communicate better ever since they opened their doors over 15 years ago. From improving your marketing strategy or a oneoff promotion of a product, to designing a complete project, the friendly team are always on hand to aid you and your business. The highly trained and experienced team are each experts in different areas, yet approachable and flexible enough to assist with any request. With a strong high quality reputation Soar Valley Press’s clients often sing their praises. Here we focus on three different companies that Soar Valley Press work closely with.

Jason Nicholls at Fitted Furniture DESIGN + PRINT

“We have utilised the skills of the Soar Valley Team over the last couple of years and they have certainly helped our business in a positive way! We have dealt with a couple of the team but Dave specifically and his attention to detail is brilliant, he has endless patience and always strives to get things right for us no matter the deadline we give him. They really know what they are talking about and they always seem to take an investment personally in our business, whether its been a banner, brochure or the design of our logo I can’t fault them.”

Soar Valley Press Park Farm Billesdon Leicestershire LE7 9FN 0116 259 9955 www.soarvalleypress.co.uk inspiration@soarvalleypress.co.uk

Emily Dyson at JLG Industries Chris Rose at Leicester Tigers “We use Soar Valley Press across all areas of the business, and we have requested a variety of things, often bespoke, and usually with short deadlines and they always deliver. They are great at working with us to find the best solution; and have come up with some award winning ideas. Chris and his team are well known across the whole club because they make it part of their service to form a partnership and we have a very good working relationship with them in all areas of Leicester Tigers. In short…great service…great people.”

WILL

ROSIE

“As the Chief Editor of a Global Product Development magazine, I need a design and print company that can keep up. Soar Valley Press understands the pace of modern business, and the value of getting things right first time. Katie is a skilled designer, who works closely with me and my team to make sure every issue is exactly as we want it. Dave Goodman has turned around anything the business requires to a high standard and competitive cost. The quality of response to our ever changing demands has developed our use of Soar Valley from one magazine to all design and print work at our UK facility.”

DAVE

ANNA

THE F I TTE D F URN IT U R E •

c o m p a n y

CHRIS

•

NICHE | 85 KATIE

NICHE | 84

Talk Business

NICHE | 85

NICHE | 84

Talk Business

NICHE | 85

Marketing in the palm of your hand.

kinetalmedia.co.uk hello@kinetal.com 0208 144 0364 NICHE | 84

Talk Business

100% of 15-34 year olds in the UK use YouTube every month... Let’s think about what that statistic could and should mean to your business and those who are looking to market their product or service. The stat shows that the medium of video is a pretty powerful one and signifies the importance of reaching your audience through the magic of film. Is it really enough to just have a website for your business these days? A video format is an important way of letting potential clients into your business, helping them get a clear picture of what you are about or how your product works. If created in the right way their impact can be far more powerful than that of any website or still image. Us human folk like things in concise videos, a series of images, and therefore a message conveyed in a slick video is a message that more often than not we literally buy into. With the vast majority of us owning smartphones

and having access to videos from wherever we are in our hands, the potential for your business through video is huge. Your customers have so much at their fingertips and your product or service needs to be right there. Kinetal Media Production create high quality, innovative film for businesses and organisations. With a flexible and creative approach they make all their videos with passion, skill and attention to detail. The forward thinking team have an impressive portfolio and have worked with a wide variety of businesses and organisations so far. Kinetal thrive on the challenge of presenting your business in its very best light and are always looking for the different view that will get your business noticed. From showreels and product information to meet the team and behind the

scenes footage, Kinetal create your video, whatever the size of the brief for the best value and work with you and your budget to make it happen - whatever it might be. Contact the Kinetal creative types to start work on your innovative video today and tap into an audience ready and waiting to discover you and your business.

kinetalmedia.co.uk 0208 1440364 NICHE | 117

Mocha Marketing and Niche Magazine join forces to host at Love Business Expo 2016 Love Business is the biggest free business event in the Midlands When it comes to business one of the most crucial aspects is good quality networking. Love Business Expo has become one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest and best networking events. Launched in 2012 at Donington Park by the events main driving force, Steve Megson, Managing Director of Quiet Storm Solutions, the expoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aim has always been to celebrate business success in the East Midlands. In 2012, the first Love Business Expo saw more than 1,000 delegates, many exhibitors and great speakers. This has since grown to well over 3,000 delegates in 2015, more and bigger exhibitors which sold out within two weeks of being released, and a take-over of Donington Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Exhibition Centre. But Steveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspirations for the Love Business Expo donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop there and 2016 looks set to be even bigger â&#x20AC;Ś So, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new for 2016? Well, the event has always had focus on different industry sectors to give it depth, and in 2016 weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see this focus take a bigger step by cleverly launching five sector/audience specific zones; one of which Mocha Marketing and Niche Magazine have joined forces to host! The zones will comprise of the following; NICHE | 118

Ä&#x2018;ĆŤ !%/1.!Ä&#x152;ĆŤ +/,%0 (%05ĆŤ * ĆŤ !0 %(ĆŤ +*!ĆŤÄĄĆŤ +/0! ĆŤ 5ĆŤ + $ ĆŤ .'!0%*#ĆŤ * ĆŤ % $!ĆŤ # 6%*! Ä&#x2018;ĆŤ ) ((ĆŤ 1/%*!//ĆŤÄ&#x2019;ĆŤ .+"!//%+* (ĆŤ !.2% !/ĆŤ +*!ĆŤÄ˘ĆŤ +/0! ĆŤ 5ĆŤ $!ĆŤ ! !. 0%+*ĆŤ+"ĆŤ ) ((ĆŤ 1/%*!//!/ Ä&#x2018;ĆŤ +*/0.1 0%+*ĆŤ * ĆŤ .+,!.05ĆŤ +*!ĆŤ Ä˘ĆŤ +/0! ĆŤ 5ĆŤ 1%!0ĆŤ 0+.) Ä&#x2018;ĆŤ **+2 0%+*Ä&#x152;ĆŤ ! $*+(+#5ĆŤÄ&#x2019;ĆŤ 1/0 %* %(%05ĆŤ +*!ĆŤÄ˘ĆŤ +/0! ĆŤ 5ĆŤ /0ĆŤ % ( * /ĆŤ $ ) !. Ä&#x2018;ĆŤ *1" 01.%*#ĆŤÄ&#x2019;ĆŤ *#%*!!.%*#ĆŤ +*"!.!* !ĆŤ +*!ĆŤÄ˘ĆŤ +/0! ĆŤ 5ĆŤ /0ĆŤ % ( * /ĆŤ $ ) !. This combined and focused reach is in addition to the already established Love Business following which has over 1,000 followers on Twitter, circa 3,500 web visits a month rising to almost 13,000 in January and February, combined with an active mailing list of 11,389 not to mention 3000+ delegates who attended the Love Business Expo 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the promotional reach for Love Business 2016 will be formidable. 2016 will see a jam-packed International Exhibition Centre, over 4,000 delegates, exceptional keynote speakers and the very best quality of exhibitors the region has to offer. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to miss this!

Owner of Love Business, Steve Megson, says about the new format â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Love Business is going to become more focused on different industry sectors to give the event and speaker format more depth. I am passionate about the day being a success for the exhibitors, delegates, speakers and anybody else involved with it. Working closely with organisations like Mocha Marketing and Niche Magazine allows us to use the event to bring together a great mix of businesses to inform, inspire and provide an enjoyable businessstimulating experienceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Gemma Orton, Managing Director of Mocha Marketing adds, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I have been involved with Love Business since day one, back in my Donington Park days, in some shape or form and so Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen it evolve from a wonderful idea to the established exhibition that it is today. When Steve approached me to get involved in this way for 2016, it was an absolute no-brainer for us. 2016 is going to be the best yetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

www.lovebusinessexpo.com Facebook: Love Business Twitter: LoveBusinessBuz

Smart, sustainable money saving for your business If someone told you that you could start saving your business money for the next month without any initial outlay, you’d probably think there was a catch. But GreenPrint offers you exactly that, with a 30 day free trial of their innovative printing software, which helps your business to fulfil your printing needs, just a little smarter. GreenPrint is a powerful tool for any business and trusted by the likes of Staples, Xerox, Halfords and M&S, it’s definitely a tool which you’ll want at your disposal. Managing print consumption in any size business can represent a huge opportunity to save on your overheads. But not only that, it can have a significant environmental impact and good management of your consumables can help your business to be a sustainable one and help reduce your carbon footprint. Intelligent monitoring and management of print usage and supplies is no easy task, or at least it hasn’t been, but even the smallest changes can deliver a big impact. GreenPrint has been designed solely for this purpose. With a sophisticated analytics tool, GreenPrint enables you to manage all the printers used across your business, in one place. With the ability to be operative in minutes using a server-side agent or web snippet allowing you to

immediately benefit from increased efficiency, reduced waste and increased functionality. Printers can be categorised and costs assigned to each and once identified this enables you to track overall printing across the business over time; identify print volumes based on individual users or user groups, such as departments or offices and effectively manage your printers.

confident that they can help you to perfect your printing processes they even offer a 30 day free trial … what are you waiting for? Start saving money now, it’s simple! Available from Primoit.co.uk

GreenPrint gives you a simple to use interface and through a combination of three pieces of software, built to complement one another, GreenPrint allows users to select the most efficient printer to use for their job BEFORE it reaches the printer. Users will be presented with an alternative, more efficient printer where applicable and they can see the cost savings and options and are guided to the most efficient printer. That means that you are not only presented with a saving opportunity every time you press ‘print’ but can accurately track and measure print volumes and associated costs. GreenPrint will also provide the option for users to interact with the software to raise awareness of wastage and costs and play their part in making small changes, which lead to big impacts.

greenprint@primoit.co.uk 08000 567787

Printing no longer needs to be painful and GreenPrint are so NICHE | 119

What’s your vision for your business in 6 months, a year, or 3 years? How are you going to get there? Answering these questions is key to growing your business. At What and How we have been taking businesses to the next level for over 25 years. We can show you how to; • Build your business vision and plan for success • Make more money and grow your business • Manage your time more effectively • Build the right team • Sell products and services that will appeal to your customers Contact Jez today on 01572 839302 or email jez@whatandhow.co.uk to start your journey towards business growth.

www.whatandhow.co.uk

Join the East Midlands fastest growing business & lifestyle publication and be a part of the Niche business development NICH November 15 / Issue 11 September 15 / Issue 10

17 Mandervell Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5LR 0116 271 2573 www.nichemagazine.co.uk Niche Magazine @MagazineNiche @magazineniche Niche Magazine UK

N N II C CH E November 15 / Issue 11

MM AA GG AA ZZ I I NN EE

September 15 / Issue 10 10 September 15 / Issue

the the the DINING FASHION FASHION ISSUE ISSUE ISSUE BUSINESS BUSINESS Christmas GIFT FINE&& FINE GUIDE FABULOUS FABULOUS FOOD FOOD

SPORTS TALK SPORTS BUSINESS NEWS NEWS

E I

ISSUE TALK

NNI ICCHHEE November 15 / Issue 11 September 15 / Issue 10

BUSINESS Christmas FIN E T& GIF FAB ULO US GU IDE FOOD

COVER STORY COVER STORY Delphinus tmc

#NicheBizAwards We’ve gotaanew newlook! look! We’ve got

SPORTS SPORTS TALK NEWS NEWS BUSINESS

NICHE | 03

COVER STORY MODA GRECO COVERCOVER STORY STORY

BAILEY VICKYVICKY BAILEY Delphinus tmc Delphinus tmc

COVER STORY MODA GRECO

#NicheBizAwards We’ve gotgot a new look! We’ve a new look!

NICHE | 03

29/10/2015 13:30

BUSINESS BUSINESS Christmas FINE FINE & & GIFT FABULOUS GUIDE FABULOUS FOOD FOOD

We#N ’veich goeB t aizA new waloo rdsk!

Niche Issue 11.indd

M A G A Z I G A Z I N E

ISSUE TALK TALK

Delphinus tmc

VICKYBAILEY BAILEY VICKY Delphinus tmc

the the the FASHION FASHION DINING ISSUE ISSUE

COVER STORY

COVER STORY MODA GRECO

September 15 / Issue 10

VICKY BAILEY

NICHE | 03

NICHE | 120

the the FASHION DIN ING ISSUE

SPORTS TALK NE WS BU SIN ESS

TALK TALK

NICHE | 03

Talk Business

What if you knew exactly what to focus on to grow your business?

It’s every entrepreneur’s dream. To know exactly what to do, when to do it and how to do it and that’s what Jez Allman specialises in. A fellow entrepreneur and an expert in sales and marketing, Jez’s career has seen him responsible for successfully helping to develop brands such as Coca-Cola, Federal Express, Walkers, Marston’s Brewery and the Rugby Football Union (RFU). Keen to help others to evolve their businesses and achieve sustainable, profitable growth Jez works with clients to understand the needs of the business, and the people behind it, carry out strategic business planning and implement tactical solutions to enable businesses and business leaders to realise their full potential. As part of the services offered through What and How, the key is the development of skills and insight which enable the team to continue driving the business forward for years to come. After all, if you’re not travelling forward, you are ultimately falling behind, a risky place to be in competitive marketplaces. Think of it like this: you would expect every great athlete to use a coach to help them set and focus on goals, develop skills to achieve those and to push themselves to achieve great things, maybe even things never achieved before. It is no different for

businesses. If you are serious about developing your business then coaching and mentoring is a vital investment. “How much will this cost me?” you think? The good news is that What and How are accredited under various match funded or preferential funding schemes to support your efforts to profitably grow your business efficiently. So, what does it involve?...Inspiration.

“I like to think of myself as an impartial advocate; I will listen, cajole, inspire, encourage, empower, guide and motivate you to your personal success.” He added, “It’s not easy being a business owner. Sometimes it’s extremely hard to step out of the day to day running of the business to strategise when there is so much to ‘do’. But, having an external mentor to enable you to make time for, and benefit from, a business strategy can help to take the business to the next level and you to ‘see the wood for the trees’”

to execute a well-defined plan of action to achieve this. coaching and mentoring or business training developed for your business to fulfil your specific business development needs. Even a 24-week course of workshops teaching business growth skills and how to implement. One thing is for certain, when you need to grow your business, Jez is an expert at designing and implementing high growth strategies with business owners and helping embed the skills required to see sustainable growth a reality for your business. To find out more about how your business could benefit, and to hear from those already benefitting from What and How’s services, visit

www.whatandhow.co.uk 01572 839 302

With over 25 years of business development, Jez is perfectly positioned, and highly passionate, about helping his clients achieve success. This could be using one, or a combination, of the services What and How have available. business success programmes - which help to develop your vision and NICHE | 121

Honest Reliable Helpful Responsible Here Ready to help you..... For competitive mortgages designed for real people, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re right up your street!

0800 434 6343 www.hrbs.co.uk Or call into see us at any of our ten branches across Leicestershire and Warwickshire

Modern mortgages Traditional service The Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. The Society's registration number is 206043 NICHE | 84

J J M Finance is a new finance broker firm based in Leicester. We are a family business with an extensive knowledge about a wide range of financial products. What is a finance broker? They are accredited experts, approved by the FCA who work, with other finance providers to negotiate and arrange appropriate financial solutions and products for both private and commercial clients. Here at JJM Finance we have been through a comprehensive vetting process and have been approved by a panel of FCA approved lenders so clients can be assured of our credentials. Our small dedicated team will professionally evaluate current financial circumstances and identify the best available options from across the market. Our established links to both local and nationwide companies enable us to offer the most suitable and competitive solutions.

So next time you are considering applying for a loan or mortgage for yourself or your business check out jjmfinance.co.uk first. info@jjmfinance.co.uk 0116 4027038 YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. REPAYING DEBT OVER A LONGER PERIOD MAY INCREASE THE TOTAL AMOUNT TO BE PAID.

Talk Business

It’s the power of love

For many of us it comes as no surprise that happy employees create a strong workforce, which means satisfied customers resulting in enhanced profits. However in practice, not all business leaders know how to maximise the potential of their teams.

The Guardian’s Happiness at Work Survey, ‘The Guardian 500,’ found that only 27% of people felt high levels of happiness at work and only 43% were proud to be a part of their organisation. Corporate Coach, Sarah Higgins says: “Worldwide research shows that relatively fewer employees consistently love what they do or will go the extra mile for their organisation. It’s that difference that can make all the difference to your organisation’s sustained success. “If you are leading in the most effective way, it’s more likely that

NICHE | 124

people in your team will love what they do and maximise their productivity; it’s untapped potential.” Sarah has developed a unique model of executive, team and organisational coaching to help leaders and organisations increase employee engagement, productivity and motivation at work. She has been using the model with her individual executive coaching clients for the past four years and now wants teams and organisations to use it as a way of working to enhance their culture and business performance. The Power of Love Leadership (POLL) is a way of working to get more effective results by understanding how your behaviours are based upon love or fear. Since her methods are not just pulled from a scientific or academic theory, she has years of evidence to

show that they work. Head of Leadership Consulting at Harvey Nash, Samantha Johnson, says: “I am grateful for Sarah’s candour and constructive challenge and her ability to help me determine my priorities and create order amongst the chaos. “Her Power of Love Leadership model has been most useful. It has helped me to take control of my decisions and approach difficult situations with confidence and clarity.” On talking about the Power of Love Leadership, Sarah explains that...“Fear is necessary for us to survive, but we use it more than is needed. It shows itself in our day to day behaviours like procrastination, not speaking up, staying within our comfort zone, blaming others or ineffectively managing performance in our team.” “For progressive businesses, they now recognise that leadership is

Talk Business

about relationships, connections and the trust that you have with people. It’s about ‘how’ you care about what you do and the people who are working for you.” Sarah has also created the POLL Programme, which is an open leadership development programme providing six months of embedded and practical learning about how to take your leadership from good to great. The programme helps leaders to clarify and build on their strengths, development areas, motivational drivers and levels of emotional intelligence. Sarah then helps leaders to understand their emotions, clarify how these affect their behaviours and learn strategies that will gain even better results.

Methods used in the POLL enable a consciousness of the results we get, so that we can understand whether they come from love or fear. The methodology provides strategies for how we can change our behaviours so that we act more productively e.g. from a place of humility, gratitude and love. Businesses gain better outcomes using the POLL because their leaders develop more creativity, effective decisions, resilience, emotional intelligence and trusting, honest relationships. “We always have a choice in

Sarah invites you to attend her open programme: Maximise Results with the Power of Love Leadership. The six month programme has a number of elements including: đƫ

Increased self-awareness as a leader, using 4 Hogan Assessments

đƫ

3 x two hour Executive 1-2-1 coaching sessions with Sarah

đƫ

2 day and a 1 day workshop incorporating best practice leadership skills

the way that we behave. Taking responsibility for things that happen to us as opposed to positioning blame can lead to more positive actions and behaviours. We influence everything that happens

Scientific studies have found that to us in some way or another, even being more positive as a leader when we and using “You can’t control other people but do things emotional

you can control how you behave”

intelligence that comes from ‘a place of love’ and has a more positive effect on our health and the emotions of people around us.

When you put circumstances in a different context your thoughts can change, which affects your feelings and ultimately your behaviour changes, meaning that the situation can turn out completely differently.”

unintentionally,” Sarah explains. “You can’t control other people but you can control how you behave and the way that you see things.

Places are limited as Sarah is working with a small group of leaders. It starts in February 2016 and workshops will be held at Rothley Court Hotel, Leicestershire. Contact Sarah for further information on 0774 865 7715 or email sarah@corporatecoaching-sh.co.uk or visit her website at www.corporatecoaching-sh.co.uk

NICHE | 125

Excellence in Innovation....

Vitality – A Passion for Life

A fish called Funky

Mi360 are a leading force in the world of virtual marketing. Runners up for Excellence in Innovation at the East Midlands Chambers Business Awards, Mi360 provide 360 degree visual tours of your venue or business location. This fantastic company provide a wide range of interactive services including floor plans, ‘pop-up’ images as well as photo galleries and even ariel photography in order to give clients a great view of your business. The tours are a unique and highly effective marketing tool which use the very best equipment and the very latest technologies, it’s a powerful and cost effective medium. Discussing with you all you need to showcase your company in the very best light, they are unique in their skills and their ability to let clients into your business.

Around four million people have private medical insurance (InterNations.org) not a lot in comparison to a population of over 64million. With the safety net that is the NHS to fall back on, health insurance is not something most of us consider, but going private may have a lot more benefits than you know.

These cute toys are inspired by local commercial cleaning company Funky Puffa Fish Group Ltd. They have emerged from the depths of the Ocean to be one of the most recognised local companies. With strong branding and excellent PR they decided that they’d replicate their logo into a cute plush toy, which is where WellPuffed Plush were born.

“We are delighted to be runners up in this category, it is fantastic for a small business to be recognised for providing this service and we are thrilled that this award has made more people aware of our our innovative 360 degree Virtual Tours, Google Photography and Aerial Photography services.” Owner John Shelton. The business, which started in 2012, has built up a strong reputation over that relatively short time and not only have they worked with a huge range of businesses and services but are also trusted Google Photographers and have provided Google tours to local shops, pubs and restaurants. To find out more visit www.mi360.co.uk Call: 0116 220 3004

NICHE | 126

Vitality By MMEs core principal is to keep you healthy at the same time as enhancing and protecting your life. This works for you and them as you can be at your healthiest while they pay out less on claims. You can get so much more from life with Vitality – quite literally! They help you and your family to lead a healthier life and reward you when you do. You’ll receive free fitness assessments and money off health and BMI checks. They look after you by helping you to get active, quit smoking and simply enjoy life. Entertain the family with a free cinema trip every week, get discounted spa breaks, save money on European flights, enjoy a drink at Starbucks each week and many more bonuses!

To purchase one or more of these awesome toys go to www.wellpuffed.co.uk you can also check out www.funkypuffafish.co.uk £2 from the sale of each Funky goes to support great charity - Menphys. Menphys is charity that supports children with disabilities and complex health needs across Leicester and Leicestershire. Menphys has two specialist day nurseries. A Special Outreach service which offers early support, family support, sign posting and support in claiming benefits and grants. Other services include Saturday clubs and Buddy Scheme. To keep our services running we need to generate £500,000 per year, and rely on support from individuals and local Businesses.

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk To find out more about Menphys please visit our website www.menphys.org.uk or contact the Fundraising office on 01455 323 012 info@menphys.org.uk

Talk Business

Solutions in Human Resources and Employment Law

Complete HR and employment law outsourcing services including on-site HR audit and drafting of employment contracts/handbooks

Greens Consultancy

giving businesses the green light

HR and Employment law training Ad-hoc consultancy work on an hourly or daily rate basis

If you interested in outsourcing your HR function or have an HR or employment related issue please get in contact. “Atom HR….because understanding HR and employment law should not be like splitting the atom.” 26 Cranmer Drive Syston Leicester LE7 1HY

0116-2121153

Health & Safety Fire Risk Assessments Training Courses Environmental & Quality Human Resources Call us for FREE Initial Advice (0116) 216 9224

07712-115663

info@greensconsultancy.co.uk www.greensconsultancy.co.uk

ivan@atomhrconsulting.com

7 Leicester Road, Countesthorpe, Leicestershire, LE8 5QU

NICHE | 127

Vitality

A Passion for Life Around four million people have private medical insurance (InterNations.org); not a lot in comparison to a population of over 64million. With the safety net that is the NHS to fall back on, health insurance is not something most of us consider, but going private may have a lot more benefits than you know. Vitality By MMEs core principal is to keep you healthy at the same time as enhancing and protecting your life. This works for you and them as you can be at your healthiest while they pay out less on claims.

You can get so much more from life with Vitality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; quite literally! They help you and your family to lead a healthier life and reward you when you do. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll receive: Free fitness assessments and money off health and BMI checks. They look after you by helping you to get active, quit smoking and simply enjoy life. Entertain the family with a free cinema trip every week. Get discounted spa breaks. Save money on European flights. Enjoy a drink at Starbucks each week ...and many more bonuses!

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0116 231 2905 NICHE | 128

Winner

Highly Commended

Best New Business

Call us on: 0116 216 8322 Or visit: www.funypuffafish.co.uk Twitter: @funkypuffafish

Leicestershire's elite commercial cleaning specialists with a national coverage. Funky Puffa Fish Group offer bespoke commercial cleaning contracts providing:Kitchen deep cleaning Kitchen extract system cleaning & TR19 Certification Deep cleaning solutions for leisure & medical sectors. Commercial high level window cleaning Telescopic Gutter vacuum with CCTV inspection Pressure washing Chewing Gum removal

Proud to be awarded as Niche Magazine Best new business . Thank you to all our clients, friends and business associates for all your support.

Cleaning staff placement

We re proud to introduce Funky Puffa Fish Fascia Company For all your fascia, soffit & guttering needs call us now: Replacements, Installations, Repairs, Gutter clearance

NICHE | 89 85

NICHE | 130

Talk Business

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Fancy never having to buy a light bulb ever again? Intrigued? We thought so! Sign up to The Utility Warehouse’s Double Gold package and you will never have to buy another bulb again. Exclusive to their Double Gold Home Owners these LED bulbs will typically save you up to 11% on your energy bill each year, every year! You needn’t do anything except sign up to the money saving Utility Warehouse Discount Club for all your utilities and they will take care of the rest. The light bulbs are replaced by a professional team of fitters, that replace all your bulbs quickly and efficiently, totally free of charge. The latest state of the art LED light bulbs are brighter, switch on immediately and have dim-able bulbs as well. Plus, there is a free replacement service, so you never need to buy another bulb, all you need to do is contact Utility Warehouse and they will replace with another bulb free of charge! There are terms and conditions to the above benefits. Find out more about the unique ways this groundbreaking company can save you money by visiting the website of Utility Warehouse Authorised Distributor: David Goadby, www. save-earnmoney.co.uk for more information. Contact David for a free informal consultation. 07736 146 400 davidgoadby@uwclub.net

Premier Conferencing at St Martins House Here at St Martins House we provide a premier city centre conferencing location tailored to accommodate your business needs. We have a wide choice in smart conferencing rooms available, all of which are fully equipped with all you could need to ensure your conference is suitably impressive and free from stress. Our spaces are designed for anything up to 200 delegates and with the latest technology and equipment, your conference space will be tailored to your exact requirements. All rooms include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities and are fully wheelchair accessible providing a self-sufficient and comfortable environment for you to carry out your business. The building itself is the ideal location for conferences held by businesses in the city or from anywhere in the UK and beyond with Leicester being in a great location on the UK map for delegates to meet. Our exceptional transport links and nearby outstanding accommodations only add to our appeal. Above all here at St Martins, we have a dedicated team of staff who make the success of your conference their priority whatever the scale. We invite you to come and view our facilities or have a chat with our team to find out how you can make your conference an absolute success, every time, no matter the requirements. General Manager Nick Quinn bookings@stmartinshouse.com 0116 0116 261 261 5200 5223

NICHE | 131

Dimblebee Catering: A Professional Service In the world of business you need to make the right impression, whether it’s a corporate event or a smaller business meeting. Dimblebee Catering have been consistently providing high quality foods and service to a wide range of corporate clients who are consistently thrilled and impressed, as are their guests. So far they have provided for hundreds of events for some of the UK’s most prestigious companies and organisations. From large events, launches, VIP directors lunches and canapé drinks parties, the chef team at Dimblebee Catering know a thing or two about food in any event! Here are just a few reports from Dimblebee Catering clients who have experienced the professional services that are offered:

NICHE | 132

“The visit of the CEO of Arkema and Bostik Worldwide was extremely important and it was vital that we made a good impression. With your help, we did it! The feedback has been excellent. Thank you for a first class job.” Jayne Shawwhen combined with Dimblebee’s discreet and friendly approach has become a winning formula. “A great big, huge, thank you for all your help and support this weekend. The party on Saturday night went superbly and Richard & Julian were absolute superstars. Nothing was too much trouble and they were friendly, professional and frankly brilliant throughout!” private client. “Dimblebee Catering delivered a wonderful ‘walk in-walk-out’ service to our Rugby Tour to

Leicester Tigers which catered to our requirements over four days. The meals were available and ready to serve on time and enjoyed by everyone, which was important. The complete weekend service was delivered to the highest standard and quality, great variety, and plenty to go around. This was a full service which included breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks that we could travel with to our tour venues. Dimblebee Catering was a significant contributor to the overall success of the tour. Well done & Thank You.” John Valentine.

0116 283 3327 www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk

are you looking for help but dont want to commit to full time staff ?

Do you become baffled

with all the paperwork

associated with running your business?

Do you just need more time

to focus on your clients?

Complete Solutions are for you! www.completepa.co.uk 37 Beaumont Street, Oadby Leicester LE2 4DA

Outsource your back office tasks to us and increase your revenue while decreasing your hours.

Flexible service. Polite & Friendly Staff. Experts in Administration, Marketing and Sales.

Call 0116 243 8585 now for a free no obligation consultation and make your business thrive.

Fast-forwarding your business evolution The woman behind the evolution of businesses across the UK is our Business Woman of the Year award winner, Leanne Bonner-Cooke! Her award-winning business ethos at Evolve has enhanced the people, processes and technologies of those that work within businesses across the UK to create stronger united workforces embracing the technological revolution and its outcomes. We think we are good at what we do but actually, this is somebody else saying ‘they really are good at what they do,’” Leanne said.

within the city is important to Evolve. “We are hoping this local award will put us on the map for more businesses that are looking to improve and grow.” As a professional working in the 1980s, Leanne saw for herself the effects of the digital revolution, “technology came to the desktop and you could see significant improvements being made.” Every-day, time-consuming tasks became simpler and now we are seeing paper been eradicated with the fast growth of mobile technology, document management and workflow solutions, Leanne told us.

Working with national clients has seen Evolve grow from three staff Computers in 2007 to “We are hoping this local award became a team of will put us on the map for more necessary in 11 experts a lot of jobs with a £1.2m local businesses” and by 1996, turnover, the internet became a part of most but Leanne hopes that her award business operations (technopedia. will attract work a little closer to com), since then the pace of new home. innovative solutions has been phenomenal. She told us: “We want to help local businesses more.” With offices It wasn’t that long ago when a PC in Leicester, offering our services NICHE | 134

was a Police Constable, a mouse was something the cat chased and a tablet was something you took for a headache! “Technology is available and linked into every business; it’s now all about utilising it more efficiently and effectively.” Evolve, the leaders in IT strategy; then go on to design, build, implement and tailor all of our projects as something ‘unique’ for your organisation enabling you to maximise the return on investment that you can achieve. The team believe that by being open to ideas from your employees is when ideas and change can be unlocked. The excuse that we ‘haven’t got the time’ or ‘can’t afford’ to improve is a myth, businesses need to focus on the value that can be achieved, Leanne says By working on effectively shaping your people, processes and technologies consequently frees up your time allowing you to do more value added ‘stuff’, which will help your business grow.

Talk Business

Bespoke Solutions

Rebate Management

Collaborative Working

Recognising that companies, large or small, want to grow, reduce costs and achieve their goals and objectives, Evolve take pride in developing methods to help them achieve this. “Some businesses might think ‘why do we need to improve?, we’re already doing great,’ but we are always looking to improve ourselves, whether it’s buying a new car or house, but it is mostly done subconsciously , so why is our business any different?.” By making a conscious effort to improve, Evolve view your business from a fresh perspective and expose a way forward bringing about sustainable, much needed change. “Technology is forcing change but people are still sometimes reluctant to use it.” Evolve engage with people to help them discover what is needed and how it doesn’t have to be frightening but can actually make working easier for them and their colleagues. It is important to understand where your business is heading and how technology can help. Evolve can provide workshop to aide the kick start of your IT strategy and help plan the progressive journey. The evolution of your business relies on the impact that your people, processes and technologies make, “all three must work together

to if your business is going to be effective and become more profitable” Leanne and her team work so hard to ensure that businesses do not stand still, we asked how she keeps her own business moving, she said: “We are always identifying gaps and niche products and services required by the market and looking at how new technologies and products which we create can assist us and other businesses” “You also have to think about the next generation of talent (who are extremely IT savvy!) coming into the workplace, and ensure that you have the technology in place that is likely to attract them.” Our approach has worked for….. Seddon, Bolero, GRS and FlexPress as well as her previous employers, Lafarge. Along with appealing to more local enterprise’s and connecting with the community in this way, our Business Woman

of the Year’s next move is to delve deeper into the development of mobile solutions ‘because that is the way the worlds going’ and Leanne wants to take you with her! Find out what Evolve can do for you at www.evolve-consultants.co.uk or call 0116 298 7460

NICHE | 135

Glynis Wright & Co expands again and wins a hat trick of awards! Glynis Wright & Co Family Solicitors and Mediators are the fastest growing family law firm in the Midlands. Glynis set up the company from scratch in 2011 as a sole business owner supported only by one part time Secretary. In just four years her business has expanded meteorically. She now employs 10 staff, 4 of whom are lawyers specialising only in family law matters such as divorce, financial settlements, disputes over children and cohabitation breakups.

NICHE | 136

The firm also offers a specialist family mediation service for those who wish to resolve their disputes through dialogue facilitated by a mediator. Glynis’ latest recruit and her fourth lawyer is Stephanie Kyriacou who joined the firm in August 2015. Stephanie is a two year qualified lawyer and one of the most talented junior lawyers in the region having qualified from law school with a Distinction. Stephanie had this to say about moving to Glynis Wright & Co: “I have a great respect for Glynis Wright as a family lawyer and mediator as well as a successful businesswoman and so I jumped at the opportunity to work with the best in the business. I also knew

Glynis only employs the best family lawyers in the field and therefore knew that I would be joining a highly skilled family team where I could build on my lawyering skills and progress swiftly in my chosen field of law. I am really excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to join such a highly sought after firm and feel that my future is bright!” The practice has become one of the most popular legal firms of choice for family law matters in the region. Each of the lawyers employed by the practice have their own client following having built their reputations in family law over years. It is Glynis’ view that one of the key reasons for the firm’s success is that it only takes on family law work which allows the firm to

Talk Business

Divorce Divorce Settlements We asked Glynis if she was planning to expand into other areas of law Children in Divorce and she replied: Prenuptial Agreements “I want to keep my firm absolutely Living Together niche. I have no wish to take on other areas of law as I feel that Agreements would dilute our quality of service delivery. We love the work that we Civil Partnership do for our clients and the clients Dissolution trust in the specialist input and guidance that they get from us. It Cohabitation is really important to them because nd are renowned specialists in family law and family Break Up they are often going through one of the most traumatic times of questions that we felt would be most vital to our readers… ADR their lives and their lawyer is key maintain a level of expertise second to none.

to supporting them through this difficult time.”

“I want to keep my firm absolutely niche. I have no wish to take on other areas of law as I feel that would dilute our quality of service delivery.

Glynis Wright - Head of Practice

It is not just clients who appreciate Glynis Wright & Co. The firm has had a remarkable year and has taken first place in three legal and business awards.

aw Hot Tips

“I had had no experience of running a business before and therefore the learning curve was swift and steep but definitely one of the best things that I have ever done! The fact that we have been recognised with three awards in this year alone from the legal and business sector whilst the firm is still in its infancy makes me feel tremendously proud.”

citors areInbased in the city centre of Leicester and are renowned specialists in family law an April 2015, Glynis won Highly

Commended Lawyer of the Year k a few moments to consult with them on three questions that we felt would be most vital to nationally in the Modern Claims Awards. In May 2015, the firm jointly Sushma Kotecha - Solicitor won the prestigious accolade of Law Firm of the Year awarded by the Leicestershire Law Society and in September 2015, the firm was awarded Best Professional Services (sponsored by The Miller Glynis Wright & Sushma Kotecha, Associate Family Partnership) in the celebrated Glynis Wright & Co states: Niche Business Awards of 2015 at the Athena.

her Agreement a ied couples?

citor at

We at Niche magazine wish Glynis and her team a fabulous 2016 and will be waiting to announce their forthcoming plans and achievements in the forthcoming year.

Is family mediation worth doing if your marriage or relationship is breaking up? Solicitor at

ho live together and “Family break Gayle up isRowley probably one of the most - Solicitor We asked Glynis to comment. increased traumatic things a couple will ever experience. Is family mediation wort gramatically about getting She said:married, Why is a Living Together Agreement a Contrary popular It is a ‘living bereavement.” Family mediation marriage or relationship etting atopre-nup? good thing for unmarried couples? “When I first set up on my own, I legal rights as can help separating couples work out their own had no intention to grow the firm. wives in relation to solutions to the problems they are facing inGlynis, a& Sushma, happy to stay small. But the Gayle and of Practice Iofwas specialist Gayle Rowley, Family Solicitor at Glynis Wright Sushma Kotecha, Associate se couples who supported environment. It is a smarter, more firm proved so popular right from Stephanie can be contacted on Wright & Co says: Co states: Glynis Wright & Co states: theevent outset that to grow the way to resolve differences. It is also 0116 238 5680 or you can email able in the of I hadintelligent enquiries@glyniswright.co.uk or firm to match the work coming in, a cheaper andofless time who consuming process greement made by a “The number couples live together and “Family break up is probably visit the firm’s website at and then I had to grow it again and arry concerning the choose not marry has compared totoSolicitor leddramatically negotiations andwww.glyniswright.co.uk. or traumatic things a couple wi a bit more! Stephanie Kyriacou - Solicitor increased sets theyhas should in the past two decades. Contrary to popular It is a ‘living bereavement.” F orce,and thehow Court a Court proceedings. marriage fails. A post-nuptial belief, no-one can acquire legal rights as can help separating couples he matrimonial assets. the same except that a common-law husbands or wives in relation to solutions to the problems the no legal right to claim Glynis Wright & Co are specialists in family NICHE | 137

nt is made by a couple

finance or property Same se couples who

supported environment. It is

NICHE | 138

Talk Business

Glynis Wright Solicitors Professional Services Winner Glynis Wright solicitors of Leicester are one of the leading family law and mediator companies in the UK. Winners in our Professional Services category, the specialist solicitors are not only professional but approachable too.

What do they do? They provide family law services including divorce and separation, prenup agreements and family mediation. Mediation being a particularly specialist aspect to their services they look for many different solutions outside of court proceedings where possible.

Glynis has developed the company gradually but with astounding success meaning its very foundations are rock solid, with its future looking set to follow suit. This growth and success didn’t happen over night but has come about because of Glynis and her close knit team’s strong allegiance to honesty, to an open and understanding attitude and to finding the best possible outcome for people in difficult positions.

How do they do it? They provide these services that are sensitive aspects of peoples’ lives and so do it with a human approach to their service. They are open, professional, honest and sensitive to their clients needs. Why are they winners? They are winners because of their personal approach, because of an attitude which means they help their clients in every way that they

can, and when clients are going through these sensitive times it’s exactly what they need. They are winners because they aren’t simply chasing the money; they are a law firm with morals and a law firm who are keen to make a difference. What do they say? “We are thrilled to win this award! we do what we do in the way that we do because we care about our clients and what they are going through, it’s been this way from the start and so it’s wonderful to be recognised because of it.”

www.glyniswright.co.uk

NICHE | 139

Funky Puffa Fish

Best New Business Winner We’re well puffed (sorry couldn’t resist) Funky Puffa Fish were awarded Best New Business at the Niche Business Awards 2015. What do they do? Funky Puffa Fish are Leicestershire’s go to company for all your commercial cleaning and property management needs. They boast state of the art equipment, expert skills and a fun, friendly and professional workforce. From commercial window cleaning, pressure washing, commercial kitchen deep cleaning, extract system cleaning and certification or business interiors, to the cost

effective installation of fascias, soffits and guttering - they can do it all! Why are they winners? They are winners because of their expert skills, because of their desire to clean up Leicestershire and clean it up well, but mostly because of their friendly, fun and professional manner in which they approach each and every job. Whilst they are a new business they are already causing quite a stir in Leicestershire and getting rave reviews for their work. With their attention to detail and commitment to getting the job done well, no matter how big or small, they are absolutely deserved winners of their category.

What do they say? “We are so pleased to have won this award. Starting a business is no easy feat and takes a lot of work from everyone in the team, but winning something like this feels like the encouragement we need; it feels really good to get this pat on the back so, thanks Niche!”

NICHE | 140

@funkypuffafish www.funkypuffafish.co.uk 0116 216 8322

Talk Business

The Dimblebee Catering Company win the Niche Wedding Services Award. The Dimblebee Catering Company are renowned for excellence, with a commitment to providing only the best in high quality outside catering for your event, whatever its size or style. The Dimblebee team have got to where they are today as a result of sheer hard work, determination, a positive and flexible service, oh and of course they have a fair few skills in the kitchen too! What do they do? Dimblebee’s create amazing handmade and homemade gastronomic fayre for your event. Whether a perfect wedding or a large corporate event the Dimblebee team offer the experience and quality to ensure your event is a storming success. You can discuss your food and service desires with the team who will help deliver exactly what will make the taste buds’ zing! How do they do it? From the moment the company started the ethos has remained

the same - to produce high quality handmade homemade food, to use the best in ingredients, to promote only the best local suppliers, and to offer a flexible and personal service. This combined with their commitment to communicating with you effectively from beginning to end is how they do it! With hundreds of events under their belts the team have the experience to tailor the food and service that you wish and their experience means that they are able to organise a very wide range of styles and flavours to suit your event. Taking care of all aspects of the catering – Dimblebee can provide the hire, tableware, professional staffing and trimmings so you don’t have to worry about a thing. So, why are The Dimblebee Catering Company winners? They won because they always strive for perfection, in the food they create, in their team’s commitment to providing a friendly, professional service and in their

ability to provide the very best in outside catering each and every time. “We are overwhelmed at winning this award it means so much to us. We have put a great deal of blood, sweat and tears into the business purely because we are passionate about what we do and so to be recognised by local business leaders and our peers at such an event is a massive boost to all of us! Thank you.”

www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk 0116 283 3327

NICHE | 141

SLM Builders are our victors in the Terrific Tradesman category SLM Builders are the Midland’s go to company for both commercial and residential construction. Having built a strong reputation over the last 13 years as complete construction and maintenance experts; they have extensive experience combined with stellar customer relations skills too and it’s for these reasons that they were our winners for this tough category. Since starting out back in 2003 SLM’s prime objective has been to provide high quality; reliable, professional and competitive level of service to their clients, whatever the job. Crediting their excellent

NICHE | 142

team, who all adopt a ‘can-do’ approach, with open and honest communication and a high level of workmanship for their steady and highly successful growth. So, who are SLM? Mark Daniels - Director and Site Manager I am Mark Daniels and the Director and Site Manager of SLM. I have been doing this for 25 years and have a qualification in CDM Management and a CSCS card. I have been with SLM since we started the business in 2003 with my Brother Lee. We wanted to start a family-run business where we could use our knowledge and experience to manage the building process from start to finish. I manage the on-site activity, making sure that foundation stage, through first fix to second fix; happens smoothly, giving our customers peace of mind that everything has been done properly for Building Reg’s sign off. My favourite kind of job is anything that’s a challenge, and I enjoy

working with new innovations like the Eco-friendly methods which are becoming very popular. Tracy Daniels - Office Manager and PA I am Tracey Daniels, and I am the Business Development Director for SLM. I have been doing this for eight years since coming to England from the Land of Oz! Before that, I managed pubs in Australia for 10 years and worked in banks, so am well qualified to keep the SLM boys in order… I enjoy working with the big projects for SLM, and keep a firm eye on the costs and profit margins for them, as well as dealing with all the correspondence while the men keep busy on site. Lee Daniels - Manager and overseer of all carpentry work I am Lee Daniels and I manage and oversee all the carpentry work at SLM. I have been doing this for over 30 years and have a City & Guilds in Carpentry along with CDM Management, First Aid, and CSCS Certificates.

Talk Business

I started the company with Mark Daniels, my Brother, in 2003 when we decided to put our skills and experience together to form a new company of top quality tradesmen, who would work together and provide a total building service across the Leicester area. I enjoy all of our new projects, from small residential extensions to complete renovations, and always enjoy the re-building work we have done in many Pubs across Leicestershire!

Darren Farmer - Estimating / Contracts Manager I am Darren Farmer and I am the Estimating / Contracts Manager at SLM. I have been doing this work for over 25 years. My qualifications are: MICWCI ID7641, CSCS Card, Professionally Charted Persons Reg: 00675597 & First Aid certificate with City & Guilds in Bricklaying, so my knowledge and skill set means that I understand exactly what needs to be done, how much it will cost, and how long it will take to build your design. I moved to SLM earlier this year to assist with the project management of each job, making sure that each building project runs exactly to plan and to budget, so this is something that our clients don’t have to worry about. I enjoy all aspects of building works, especially; industrial,

SLM’s prime objective has been to provide high quality; reliable, professional and competitive level of service to their clients, whatever the job.

commercial & Local Authority works, which I have many years of on-site experience in. SLM on their Niche Award; ‘We were truly delighted to win this award. Of course, we do what we do not for awards but when they come along like this, we can’t help but feel proud. We feel the company has got to where it has through the hard work and skill of everyone in our team, so we would like to thank everyone at SLM HQ for all their hard work over the years and to Niche Magazine for this lovely award!’

37 Melrose Street Leicester LE4 6FD 0116 276 5333 0116 261 1919 info@slmbuilders.co.uk

www.slmbuilders.co.uk 0116 276 5333

NICHE | 143

Motoring

NICHE | 144

Motoring

As a family run independent business since 1962, Jordan Motors understand the needs of their Leicester customers only too well. Having a local expert who will collect your car for MOT’s and Services and if you would like to be dropped off at Fosse Park to shop while we work, we can do that too. ‘The dealer alternative’ company provide a complete range of car and van servicing and repairs. In the ideal location near to the M1, Meridian and Grove Park Business Park, they are easily accessible. Vehicle hire is made easy as we offer cars vans, minibuses and trucks for private and corporate business. Jordan is equipped to deal with repairs for all makes and models of vehicle. Using prestigious brands, we are able to perform engine

Don’t delay, to book your MOT or service call Simon today.

Jordan Motors

diagnostics quickly and efficiently.

www.jordanmotors-leicester.co.uk

We make sure that you won’t break down on the way to the airport,

0116 289 2308

with a multi-point vehicle safety check; and as a brake’s specialist can give you a lifetime warranty on brake pads. Jordan Motors understand that family life is busy and you need to

30 - 34 NARBOROUGH ROAD SOUTH, BRAUNSTONE TOWN, LEICESTER, LE3 2FN

rely on your car every day for work, school and the endless children’s activities. Keeping you on the road safely and economically is our priority.

NICHE | 145

Business man of the year... Businessman of the Year winner Chris Sturgess is our Businessman of the Year! The Chairman of the prestigious car dealerships that make up Sturgess Motor Group won his award because of his key role in our city’s automotive arena. Sturgess of Leicester, family run since 1897, has been built upon firm foundations and a reputation which is stronger than ever. Why is he a winner? Sturgess have earned their success and reputation because of their commitment to each and every client, something that Chris is avidly involved in. His innovation and determination in exposing the company, whether to attract new employees or new customers is inspiring and the building of professional relationships that he has nurtured and maintained has profited the company invaluably.

enquiries from all corners of the business, all with a positive outlook and a friendly face, Chris is an integral part of the company. How does he do it? There is very little that Sturgess don’t know about the cars that they sell and they are proud of their reputation as the honest, trustworthy and expert dealership to go to in Leicestershire and beyond. What does he say? “Well, I’d like to start by saying thank you. I am grateful and very flattered to be given this accolade. We uphold the same values that we started out with back in 1897 and I believe we are still successful because of this. I would also like to say that this is for everyone at Sturgess, not for me alone, we are a team after all and always have been, and always will be!”

What does he do? Being Chairman of the long established Jaguar, Land Rover, Hyundai, Volvo, Suzuki and Fiat new and used car dealerships means Chris is a very busy man. Meeting daily with new and established clients and helping with NICHE | 146

www.sturgessgroup.co.uk 0116 416 1081 01572 839 302

ABARTH WITH

THE NEW ABARTH 595 COMPETIZIONE. NOTHING EXCITING HAPPENS IN SILENCE.

STURGESS LEICESTER

Aylestone Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE2 7QN. Tel: 0116 2541717 WWW.STURGESSGROUP.CO.UK

DISCOVER THE UNMISTAKEABLE SOUND OF THE ABARTH 595 COMPETIZIONE WITH NEW 180HP ENGINE AND RECORD MONZA EXHAUST.

Official fuel consumption figures for Abarth range mpg (l/100km): Combined 45.6 (6.2) – 48.7 (5.8), Urban 34.4 (8.2) – 37.2 (7.6), Extra urban 55.4 (5.1) – 60.1 (4.7), CO2 Emissions: 145 – 134 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption. Abarth UK is a trading style of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles UK Ltd. The New Abarth 595 Competizione range starts from £19,890 OTR. Model shown is an Abarth 595 Competizione 1.4 T-Jet 180 hp at £22,110 OTR with Cordolo Red Tri-Coat Metallic Paint at £660, 17" Formula – Matt Black Finish Alloy Wheels at £190, Black Stripe and Door Mirrors at £170 & Abarth Corsa Front Seats by Sabelt in Leather/Alcantara at £1200.

The new Jaguar XE...a car that really means business. Total Motionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harry Hill road tests the new Jaguar XE Make and Model: Jaguar XE 2.0 Diesel Portfolio 163PS Manual Introduction/Overview:

This is Jaguarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new kid on the block, the one to take it to the dominant German manufacturers such as the BMW 3 series and Audi A4. The Portfolio specification is top of the range and as Jaguar is standardised across it is the same equipment as an XF or the eagerly awaited F-Pace. Exterior: A massive front grille acts as a vacuum and gives the visual as if the car will just inhale the road, the standard alloys give an attractive look but I would recommend upgrading Interior: The Portfolio is a great specification NICHE | 148

and with the full leather, fantastic infotainment system and general interior styling makes for a really good combination. Engine/Power: 2.0 Diesel 163PS - New range of Jaguar Land Rover Engines Ride and Handling:

Harry Hill - Total Motion Business Development Manager

The XE drives very well whether it be steadily down the motorway or stop/start traffic, it holds the road nicely too and because this is more compact than the bigger brother XF you feel more as one. The Competition: BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Infiniti Q50, Skoda Rapid, Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia Closing Thoughts: Colour is key with this vehicle, in red or black the vehicle looks outstanding, the wrong colour like any vehicle or anything can make or break it. I will be recommending this on to our company lists.

0116 251 1122 Total Motion Vehicle Management @TotalMotionUK Total Motion Vehicle Management

Motoring

Q: Where would you lease your next car or van from? A: Total Motion

0116 251 1122 . www.totalmotion.co.uk

SKODA - ALFA ROMEO - MERCEDES-BENZ - VAUXHALL - RENAUL AUDI - JAGUAR - FORD - MITSUBISHI - NISSAN - MINI - PEUGE S ROYCE - ASTON MARTIN - FERRARI - VOLVO - TOYO - HONDA - JEEP - LEXUS - PORSCHE - SEAT - SUBARU - MAZ NICHE | 173

Keeping you on your wheels... It’s a cold and frosty morning. The window wipers slide across the blanket of ice draped over the car. You’re already late for work. And now the engine won’t start. Great. That sinking feeling is like no other. Your car is your lifeline and when something goes wrong it can be devastating. You need someone who can take a look at your vehicle and get it fixed on the same day, an organised service that will come to you and a friendly face you can trust. That’s why The Mobile Garage People were winners at our Niche Magazine Business Awards for highly commended Businessman of the Year! Fourteen years ago Michael Porter, the company’s founder, developed the pioneering business idea that has transformed the vehicle repair industry in the East Midlands. Offering a completely bespoke service, Michael and his team travel to any location of the customer’s choice taking the stress out of having your vehicle NICHE | 150

repaired or maintained. Consistently adding to their list of services to stay ahead of the game, The Mobile Garage People are able to offer their services for anything from a simple bulb change to a full engine replacement right on your doorstep! Michael was chosen for his strategic planning and leadership skills, his effortless determination to improve on customer satisfaction and grabbing any opportunity that will lead to the growth of the business. His dedication to the business has seen it transform from a sole trader to a limited company and has seen turnover increase year on year, even during the recession. This is, in part, due to his meticulous and on-going search for good quality, trustworthy mechanics who can uphold the company values. The business leader is insistent upon annual updates and training with industry professionals and is

continually looking for future prospects to develop his staff. Running apprenticeship schemes for young people, Michael provides excellent opportunities for employment and as a result, he is confident in his workforce. He has been approached by several schools and colleges and has offered his time and expertise to inspire our next generation of young people through talks and work experience placements. Our Highly Commended Businessman of the Year has increased the profile of the garage industry; proving that not everyone is out to ‘rip you off’ Avoid costly, time consuming repairs, save their number in your phone!

www.themobilegaragepeople.co.uk 0800 859 5306

Motoring

Attention to detail... From bumps and scratches to showroom ready vehicles, FX Detailing are prepared for anything!

into a repeat client with a long lasting relationship or has recommended us to friends and family.

Our midlands based mobile car detailing company offer a great many services to ensure your cherished vehicles stay looking great for as long as possible and in many cases, even better than new.

We strive to offer the best possible service to our clients, whether it is a monthly maintenance wash, or a one off 100 hour detail, we care for your pride and joy as if it were our own.

If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a general maintenance wash, paint restoration or leather care you require, we use only the best products on the market but we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop there.

We know a thing or two about flawless precision. Get your paint correction, upholstery cleaning, stain removal, interior odour removal and top quality show car preparation with us for unrivalled perfection.

We give each and every vehicle that comes to us our undivided attention. Combining great customer service with very high levels of workmanship has brought about our trustworthy reputation. Our goal is to understand what the customer needs and wants and deliver that within budget and on time. From day one, we have built our business on referrals. Every customer we have has turned

If you have something more specific in mind or think your car needs a bit more time and affection, rest assured because we work with a number of suppliers to be able to offer everything from Paint Protection Film to Alloy Wheel Refurbishment, dent removal to windscreen chip repairs. If you need it just ask! Us at FX Detailing can organise it for you. Been meaning to get that

scratch taken care of? Call Miles Marr, the brains behind the business and the hands on expert.

www.fxdetailing.co.uk 01572 839 302

NICHE | 151

Diamondbrite

full paint protection and fabric shield for the interior starts at ÂŁ200 all inc

CAR BODY REPAIR, SMART REPAIR & DETAILING

Scratch repairs Bumper scuff repairs Chip repairs Scrape repairs Alloy wheel refurbishments Alloy wheel repairs Paintless dent removal(PDR) Machine polishing Paint correction Minor accident repair Valeting Window tinting Tow bars Parking sensors In car entertainment

0796 775 2623

Vinyl wrapping Plasticdip liquid vehicle wrapping 40 years experience Same day, flexible service 3 year guarantee

At Paint Wagon We are here to make repairing your car quick and easy with the least possible disruption to your day. We provide high quality smart repair, car body repair and accident repair service including key scratch repairs, scrape and scuff repairs and bumper repairs to full panel repairs and re paints car bodywork repair service in Leicester. Bumper scuffs Alloy wheel refurbishment with a same day service available, our paint work is guaranteed for three years. We also offer Diamondbrite car paint protection system which comes with a Lifetime Guarantee* & means your vehicle need never be polished, as long as the simple maintenance procedure is adhered to. We can offer this product at a discounted rate much cheaper than car main dealers at around half the price. The product puts a super hard coating over you vehicles paint work which resist against scratches, acid rain, tree sap, uv rays and bird lime maintaining you vehicles value.

UNIT 1, SAFFRON WAY IND EST, LEICESTER, LE2 6UP WWW.PAINTWAGON.UK PAINTWAGONAUTO@GMAIL.COM 0116 367 6289 NICHE | 152

Welcome to the wave of hybrid electric cars sweeping across the business world. Gone are the dreary days of a company car being a bland no frills drive to a client.

The introduction of BMW’s i8, has set the bar for other motor companies to aspire to. The BMW i8 is a truly revolutionary vehicle, the first sports car with the consumption and emission values of a compact car. With its innovative construction, ground-breaking use of materials, aerodynamic design and wealth of intelligent BMW EfficientDynamics features, the BMW i8 manages to give you break neck performance with half the CO2 emissions of a Volkwagen UP! Key stats Weight 1560kg Max Torque 320Nm 0-62 4.4s CO2 49g/km

The maths Business leases start at around £1400 per month (including VAT) But after VAT relief the cost becomes £1210, after corporation tax relief the cost drops again to £968.

“Which means that company car benefit tax can be as low as £40 per month for owner managers. All of the above means leasing one just became a wise decision.” If you’re not convinced, think about the introduction of personal dividend tax starting 6th April 2016. Because of this tax, a higher rate tax payer already drawing £3,500 or more per month will need to draw £900 extra pre-tax to pay for a £600 a month personal car. Lined up next to gas guzzling monsters that don’t make economic

sense to be company cars, like Audi’s R8 V8 or the Porsche 911, the i8 just became the smart choice. Clever thinking like this is just one of the ways Whitehall Accountants supports its clients and allows them to squeeze the most from their assets. We appreciate you’re busy but take some time out to have your business reviewed by the experts.

Martyn Naffine Corporate Sales Manager 0116 282 7700

NICHE | 153

Sports

A good time for sports fans in Leicester Not since the dizzy heights of the “sporting capital” days of 1997 has there been such a feel-good factor among Leicester’s sports fans. Leading the way are Leicester City. The Foxes have confounded all the pundits with a confident start to the season, building on the spirit engendered by the “great escape” last Spring, that actually saw Claudio Ranieri’s men sit on top of the Premier League on each of the first three Saturday nights of the new season. Leading the way have been Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez, though much of the good form has been down to the quiet excellence of midfield general Danny Drinkwater. The race to 40 points, and the safety line, is well and truly on! For Tigers’ fans it has been a different start to the season with the early focus being on the

World Cup. The decision to stage games at the King Power Stadium instead of Welford Road was not universally popular in the city but it has provided the opportunity to redevelop the clubhouse end of the ground and a 26,000 capacity stadium should soon be fully open for business as the new Premiership campaign gets fully into the swing. Exciting new signings in both playing and backroom staff promise to make this another exciting season at Welford Road.

Riders’ progress this year. It has once again been a tough summer for the Lions but there has been plenty to cheer about on the individual front as team captain Jason Doyle has rode solidly in his first World Speedway Championship season, already clinching his place in the 2016 series. After a series of semi-final mishaps, Doyle finally reached his first Grand Prix final in Torun in early October where he finished in second place.

Leicester Riders are also looking forward to reaping the rewards of development, with their new arena being set to open midway through the season. The return to the city of Leicester should give everyone a real boost, though Rob Paternostro’s team have already started the campaign in fine form. Niche Magazine, of course, are sponsors of Guard Neil Watson so will be taking a special interest in

Also enduring a disappointing summer, Leicestershire’s cricketers at least recorded their first County Championship win for a couple of years. The foundations for a more solid future are gradually being put in place at Grace Road and finances will not be harmed in 2016 when the venue plays host to a concert by none other than Elton John next June – quite a coup for Leicester!

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages NICHE | 154

Sport

The Foxes are Fighting Fit What a fantastic start to the season for the Foxes. Close to my heart, and still a regular ‘haunt’ of mine the King Power Stadium has seen the full force of the Foxes and, at the time of writing, our first clean sheet. Jamie Vardy has put in several standout performances and deservedly holds the position of leading goalscorer in the Premier League. In turn, he has forced his way into Roy Hodgson’s thinking and has started notching up his England caps in the Euro 2016 qualifiers. However it’s not just the fastest man on the field doing us proud. We’ve earned the reputation as the ‘comeback kings’ and in doing so there has been some spectacular entertainment on offer. Coming up to Christmas we’ve got a number of the title contenders to face and that will prove our biggest test so far. I was concerned that we hadn’t gained a clean sheet beforehand but thankfully Crystal Palace was the turning point and I hope that gives our defence a boost so they can keep them coming; Claudio Ranieri can maybe claim back the pizza bills if results, and more clean sheets, keep coming! Also all the fans have been superb, and with the loudest supporters in the league behind us, I’m looking forward to a fighting start to 2016.

The Binman brings boxing home Many people still associate boxing solely with the likes of Tyson and Bruno, but boxing has seen a revolution over the past decade and we’re seeing many more amateurs interested in the sport, both in contact and non-contact forms. In fact, a lot of people will have done some form of boxing in gym classes, whether you knew it or not. The reason: boxing is awesome for fitness. One of my personal favourites is the rise of White Collar Boxing – accountant by day, fighting force by night! You may even have seen some celebs joining in for charity like Ricky Gervais. We’ve hosted some great events to date and I spend 8 weeks in the lead up to the bouts training the contestants and showing them the tricks of the trade. The next event takes place on 14th November at The Republic in Leicester and is looking like it will be a knockout. This winter’s event is in aid of two local charities close to my heart; Edgar’s Gift and Olivia’s Journey, which both support children with the biggest fight - cancer. This is an opportunity to experience boxing but also give something back to those who need it the most so please come along and join the fun.

www.facebook.com/NWCboxing

The circle of sport Now into our second year, the foundation is going strong and the students are remarkable. We’ve been working with our young apprentices to develop the skills needed forge a successful career in sport. And our students are already well on the way to becoming great sports teachers, running lunchtime sessions with local schoolchildren and teaching them anything from cricket (a favourite of mine) to dodgeball. And, in doing so, they are helping to inspire the 16-19 year olds of the future and showing them the options that are out there. We’re here to offer a pathway to becoming sports teachers in their own right, to guide them, and to help them meet the people who can help to make their aspirations a reality. And it works, one of our students recently took a refereeing course on the advice of Chris (our tutor and fellow referee) and now finds himself, just weeks later, refereeing the LCFC kid’s side – and earning a bit extra whilst gaining valuable experience doing what he wants to do. Next up we’re looking at introducing a BTEC path for September 2016 and bringing in Heads of Sport to focus on different disciplines.

www.paulnixoncricket.com

www.stevewalshblog.co.uk

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 155

Facebook: Leicester Racecourse Twitter: @LeicesterRaces

NICHE | 156

Sports

Don’t forget your husband! Put the 2nd July 2016 in your diaries because Ladies Day is coming to Leicester Racecourse! The stylish elegance of Ladies Day at Ascot has quickly become a significant affair that hundreds of thousands of people look forward to every year, and like that of the Ascot, Leicester Racecourse is also experiencing this rapid growth in attendance. Rob Bracken, General Manager of Leicester Racecourse, said, “Last year was our record year in terms of crowd numbers. We had around 10,000 people attend.” Over 1,000 bottles of Prosecco, 1,500 jugs of Pimms and 10,000 pints of lager were quoffed through the day and into the night marking a memorable (or not so memorable) occasion. With the expanding popularity of the esteemed event, Rob is aiming even higher for 2016, he continued, “What we’re looking to do next year is aim for 14,000!” We asked how the racecourse plans to entice even more race-goers to the meet. “One of the big differences will be the starting time for the entertainment.” Acts will be

performing, including the one and only, Billy Ocean as well as Re-Take That, the number one Take That tribute band, Mica Paris and a yet to be disclosed celebrity DJ to finish off the night. Competitions will be held for the best dressed lady, there will be more toilets (thank goodness) and 14 amazing local street food vendors, offering everything from pizza to paella. Plus, for the first time ever, the centre of the racecourse will be open for private hospitality. Looking at feedback from previous years, the directing team decided to invest substantially into their infrastructure. “On the success of last year, we’ve doubled our budget for the acts, we’ll have more bars, more places to sit and have scheduled to seat 2000 for the sit down meal, which is a massive increase from 1,000 last year.” Rob enthused. For those who plan to be part of those 2000 visitors, there’ll be marquees, a hog roast and exclusive bar.

Horse racing in general is nationally becoming more popular and visiting numbers are up by 10%. “Ladies day is doing so well because everyone knows about Ascot Ladies Day - they’ve all heard about it. Shops are doing more and more. Go into a jewellers and they’re advertising Ladies Day, it’s everywhere!” “I think we’re well and truly out of recession and people want to make the most of their leisure time and people are realising it’s a great day out. You’re here for 12 hours of entertainment for a small investment. It’s a day where you can treat yourself basically.” Adult entry tickets are £29, hospitality package of hog roast and guaranteed seating £69 and upper end tickets from £100+vat for a corporate box with all the works. Go to www.leicester-racecourse.co.uk for more events. NICHE | 157

Welcome to AFDA When Leicester City legends Muzzy Izzet and Steve Walsh teamed up with PTC Education to create a football academy, they dreamed of an empire. Now well into its second season, and on the back of a successful recruitment campaign, student numbers have doubled and the reputation of the Advanced Football Development Academy is a positive one in the competitive world of further education. It is well documented that football can be an unforgiving environment. Injuries, poor attitude and the relentless approach of professional clubs in sweeping up talented individuals has led to the alarming statistic that less than one percent of professional academy players achieve first team status. With this in mind, the Advanced Football Development Academy looks to offer youngsters with ambitions of playing professional football, or indeed those who simply love the game, the opportunity to explore further careers in sport, whilst also developing their physical and technical ability on the pitch.

In conjunction with elite level coaching, led by Muzzy, ‘Walshy’, Chris Tucker (Leicester City under 21 Coach) and former Leicester City player Jon Stevenson, AFDA offers players the chance to gain a 180 credit BTEC Sport Level 3 qualification in a unique programme that can successfully prepare them for employment or higher education. By studying a variety of units - from Sport Psychology to Sports Coaching, from Anatomy and Physiology to Fitness Testing - learners will leave with the knowledge to make an informed career decision. Alternatively, AFDA also offers an NVQ Level 2 in Activity Leadership, whereby learners are trained to work within the local community to provide schools with a quality coaching service during PE sessions, lunchtime clubs and after school clubs. Whilst this is a realistic avenue for BTEC learners, career choices made by those to have completed a qualification include: scholarships in the USA, full time employment gained from school placements and the military. With a dedicated team of academic staff, learners are fully equipped with the skills deemed essential by both employers and higher education establishments.

AFDA’s newly formed women’s team 2015/2016. Following a successful first campaign, the 2015/16 season has continued in a similar manner, with four men’s teams and a newly formed women’s side competing for silverware in the English Colleges Football Association League. The enthusiasm and professionalism of the AFDA coaches is infectious, resulting in competitive yet enjoyable training sessions on a daily basis. However, the importance of leaving the academy with a qualification is recognised by all staff who actively encourage learners to ensure academic work is complete and up to standard. For any young person who lives for football, the Advanced Football Development Academy is an ideal opportunity to receive professional coaching, play competitive matches and gain a valued qualification. Some might even suggest the perfect match.

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages NICHE | 158

Sports

board for the next three seasons.” The 32-year-old Horton has an equally impressive heritage whose spell as captain included leading the Red Rose County to the NatWest T20 Blast Final in 2014. During his career, he’s achieved an impressive average of 37.63 in amassing 9,522 first-class runs, 51 half-centuries and 21 hundreds. His highest score is an impressive 209.

LCCC’s Super Six for 2016 Since the last issue of Niche it’s been a busy period for Leicestershire County Cricket Club (LCCC), with several key announcements making the news as the club looks to secure the future success for the club for seasons to come. With four key new players entering the team and international duo Umar Akmal and Kevin O’Brien making a return to the Foxes for 2016 season, LCCC has further strengthened its batting expertise and are set as a force to be reckoned with for both T20 and Championship titles. The first announcement came with the signing of sought after Middlesex batsman Neil Dexter ona three-year contract. The 31-year-old started his county career at Kent and has scored a 5,977 first-class runs at an average of 35.79 with a career-best score of 163 not out. He has also registered 1, 913 List A career runs at 31.88 and 1,497 runs in T20 cricket at a strike rate of 109.91.

It comes as no surprise then that Neil has received interest from a number of top clubs, with LCCC Chief Executive, Wasim Khan MBE, ‘delighted’ that the former Middlesex Captain has chosen the Foxes for the next stage of his career, adding, “He will give us both quality and experience with his proven track record in county cricket. Neil has been in very good form for Middlesex and has captaincy experience in county cricket.” Within a week, LCCC had more exciting news in the signing of Lancashire batsman Paul Horton on a three-year contract. Khan went on to say: “It is terrific that we have secured the signing of two experienced batsmen with leadership experience in county cricket in Paul Horton and Neil Dexter. “Like Neil, Paul has an excellent track record in all three formats of the game and will be another great role model for our younger professionals to learn from. We are delighted to have both players on

Mid-September saw key duo Ned Eckersley and Charlie Shreck agree new contracts at Grace Road, further strengthening LCCC’s 2016 plans. Eckersley has signed a two-year deal to add further competition for batting positions while Shreck penned a one-year extension. The 26-year-old Eckersley has scored 4,026 first-class runs in his career at a healthy average of 32.73, including ten centuries for Leicestershire. Shreck’s terrific 2015 season has seen him claim 57 first-class wickets at an average of 29.17 and is just one short of taking 100 first-class career wickets for Leicestershire. The Foxes are looking ready for the trophy hunt in 2016, so keep up to date with all the latest news and upcoming fixtures at www.leicestershireccc.co.uk

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 159

KKONG EVENTS PROUDLY PRESENTS

S T E K TIC 30 FROM

AKA ‘GAZZA’

IONAL T O M PRO HEN USING ‘NICHE11’ W TS E CODE KING TICK OMB B BOO ICKET 40) T H G THROUUAL PRICE (US

SUNDAY 31ST JANUARY 2016

£10

wit

Curve theatre

OFF

hp r ‘nic omo he cod 11’ e

Rutland Street

Leicester

LE1 1SB

www.ticketbomb.co.uk SPONSORED BY

Sports

Welford Road combining hospitality and the occasional haka With the World Cup firmly embedded in our hearts and the City, thoughts are beginning to turn to all those rugby fans across Leicestershire. But, our very own stadium has much more to offer than many know, even after the World Cup is won. Visitors to Welford Road have the opportunity to not only see some of the World Cup players in action for their respective league sides but, to enjoy first-class hospitality as part of the club’s VIP match day experiences. Available for parties of two or more, on a match by match basis, you can wait for the Saracens to visit and see Owen Farrell’s kicking expertise first-hand. Whether it’s a family celebration, to impress a client or to reward your staff, this promises to offer a memorable experience and a fantastic way to enjoy the ‘gentleman’s sport’. “We’ve used the corporate hospitality for entertaining clients and staff incentives over the last season, we are now into our second season and we have always found that the experience is extremely enjoyable to all we have invited with many new rugby converts at the end of the day.” Heatcare Limited Starting the day as you mean to go

on, the packages include reserved car parking (for up to 5 cars) followed by a complimentary pre-match bar complete with visit from one of the first team players for a Q&A session and delicious four-course meal with wine*. Your party will enjoy exclusive reserved seating with a fantastic view of the action and a souvenir programme for each guest. And for those a bit peckish after watching all that energy being expended on the pitch, there’s a post-match buffet as well as competitions to partake in and, of course, some well-deserved prizes. “The bar and restaurant staff are always helpful and friendly, the food is good, along with the available wine choice, all of which never fails to impress our guests, making acceptance of invitations easy. The rugby is of the highest standards for all of our guests to watch, some of which are supporting the visiting teams and all comments from all guests are that the experience is without doubt one

of the best sporting events visited.” Whether you’re a lifelong rugby fan or not, after this experience we guarantee you’ll be back.

If you’d like to find our more or to book call 0116 217 1215 or visit www.tigers.talent-sport.co.uk and select ‘Hospitality’ from the menu. www.leicestertigers.com Follow us: Official Leicester Tigers @LeicesterTigers *Minimum booking of 8 to secure your own table. Bookings of 7 or less will be seated on a shared table

NICHE | 161

Frog Island Sports Specialist in hockey, netball and rugby

There are some businesses that appear and plug a gap in the market, bringing jobs or products into the local community seemingly out of nowhere. Others take the long approach. One such business that has now been trading for over 2 decades is Frog Island Sports with a turnover of over £2 million. With its Founder and Managing Director Sean Cayless at the helm, the business has enjoyed longevity by being keenly priced but offering a very personal approach to its customers in the niche sports within which it operates. “With our beginnings in hockey, we have grown into a national retailer with the largest selection of products in the industry. This has enabled us to develop strong relationships with leading sports brands, given us credibility with our loyal customers and helped our growth even when economic conditions where adverse.” “It’s this growth that has enabled

us to push beyond our original horizons and into other sports such as rugby, netball and even personalised clothing for sports clubs and teams. Recently, investment has been made in technology, training and new product development, and we are very optimistic about our future plans for further growth.” It’s easy to see why the company, who are based on Frog Island in Leicester have been successful over the years. The team simply live and breathe sport, from the rows of thousands of products on display every item is known and understood. Frog Island Sports also develop and manufacture a range of protective products. Their cricket protection is produced under the brand name Stretton Fox and has been voted the “world’s best protective cricket gear” by All Out Cricket for two years running. They are credible in other sports too, with direct links to the GB

Hockey Team and relationships with the Leicester Tigers. Frog Island Sports is an old style sports supplier, which is refreshing in today’s climate of chains and supermarkets. Sean closes “We know who we are and why we are different. We are here to support real sportsmen and women who take their sport seriously. Those who want the best equipment, garments or accessories come to us. We hope to build on that ethos as we grow and expand into other areas and will continue the good work we have started. It’s an amazing time to be involved in the industry, and to be helping the next generation of athletes come through.” Quote Niche in store to recieve 10% off Frog Island Sports can be found at 5 Frog Island Leicester, LE3 5AG. You can find onsite parking, and a team of friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff.

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages NICHE | 162

Sports

The friendly golf course At the eastern end of the stunning County of Rutland, just north of Stamford, lies Rutland County Golf Club. Renowned for its open door welcoming policy, it is a place for all to enjoy the wonderful game of golf. The Club welcomes players of all backgrounds, ages and ability to become Members or pay as you play on its 18-hole inland links style course. There are practice facilities and a driving range as well as the new ‘Super Six’ course, which can be played in an hour, so there is plenty for the keen golfer, the dabbler or the never- even- seena- golf- club- before crowd. Other facilities include a well stocked bar, hot food and an on-site golf shop to pick up a treat or two. More than your average Club, Rutland County Golf Club has a committed attitude to encouraging everyone to sample the pleasure of a round of golf. This commitment can be found not only through their friendly way to all who visit, but also in their many programmes and activities for encouraging young people into the sport. There is something for the whole

family, with open days to take a look around, family days where you are encouraged to bring your own picnic and free coaching sessions for children from the age of 3 upwards. Local schools come to practice at the Club in such a way that, through the sport they learn various ‘Skills for Life’, such as how to be a good sportsperson, how to conduct themselves and much more besides. The rewards of encouraging young people to discover golf has meant that the Club has seen its talented juniors blossom. An exciting new development is the recently added 9 hole Foot-Golf course, this is proving popular in the local community. Details available on the Club web site. If you are thinking of giving golf a try, or are a practised golfer already and looking for a friendly new club to be part of, call 01750 460330 for more information or if you prefer, call in and see us, where a guided tour and taster session awaits! See why so many find Rutland County Golf Club one of the

friendliest around. You can become a club Member or simply pay and play. This refreshingly modern Club provides the best of both worlds; a high quality 18- hole golf course and a wide range of practice facilities to enable you to enhance your game. It also encourages beginners, families and young golfers of the future. Our Director Jenny Cross took a taster session just recently and said, “I have dabbled a little in golf over the last few years, but never really found a club where I felt very comfortable until now. Rutland County Golf Club is welcoming with excellent facilities and friendly staff, I would certainly recommend to anyone!” www.rutlandcountygolf.co.uk

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 163

Niche are thrilled to announce that we are one of the official sponsors of Leicester Riders Basketball player, Neil Watson. Neil joined the Riders last season from his University of Southern Mississippi and is back for his second season after making a huge impact to the team both on the court and off. His skill in game and positive, high energy, fun attitude have made him one of the city’s favourites since first touching Leicester soil in 2014. Neil seems as pleased as we are about us being his sponsor he beams “I am so happy that Niche are my official sponsors because they make me feel a part of their family and, the people involved are amazing!”

One the UK’S Largest Selection of Rackets

ERSA approved Racket stringer In store Racket Diagnostic Machine for Racket Customisation Professional Staff with expert product knowledge

STCUDENT DISC all in sto OUNT re

Specialists in Tennis, Squash, Badminton, RacketBall, Rugby, Hockey

to your DM U Discoucollect nt Card

HIGHCROSS & THE SHIRES

lane

guildhall lane

st martins

loseby

Try out a racket on our In-Store Hitting Wall

carts

HIGH STREET

lane

6 CARTS LANE, LEICESTER 0116 262 2113 www.withersonline.com

ster leiceedral th a c Just off of the High Street, two doors away from Pilot Menswear

peacock lane

st martins

s hotel t

grey friars

new st

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages

mar berr

NICHE | 164

Leicester LeicesterRiders Riders

21/11/15 21/11/15 Sheffield SheffieldSharks Sharks 28/11/15 28/11/15 Cheshire CheshirePhoenix Phoenix 05/12/15 05/12/15 London LondonLions Lions 22/12/15 22/12/15 Bristol BristolFlyers Flyers 02/01/16 02/01/16 Leeds LeedsForce Force All All7.30pm 7.30pmtip-offs tip-offs

RIDERS RIDERSTICKET TICKETOFFICE OFFICE

www.leicesterriders.co.uk www.leicesterriders.co.uk +44(0)116 +44(0)116255 2558635 8635

With basketball basketball participation participation levels in the the UK UK growing, growing, kids kids are looking looking for for their their next next role role model, they they need need look look no no further further than our very very own own Conner Conner Washington. Washington.

“Playing “Playingprofessionally professionallyhas hasallowed allowedme meto to

Washington Washington is is one one of of the thebrightest brightesttalents talentsin in

Conner Connerisisalso alsostudying studyingfor foraadegree degreeatat Loughborough LoughboroughUniversity Universityand andrepresents representsthe the

Britain, Britain, who who has has developed developedinto intoaakey keypiece piece of the the jigsaw jigsaw for for the the Riders. Riders.Conner Connergrew grewup up in Bedford Bedford and and was was spotted spottedplaying playingstreet street basketball basketball as as aa youth. youth. “I used used to to watch watch aa lot lot of of‘And1’ ‘And1’videos videosof of players players doing doing tricks tricks in instreet streetbasketball, basketball,”” explained explained Conner. Conner. “It really really took took my my imagination imaginationand andIIwent wentout out to practice practice the the moves movesfor forhours hourson onend. end.””

really reallyfocus focusand anddevelop developas asaaplayer. player.I Ilove love working workinghard hardto toprogress progressmy mygame. game. ”” “Our “Ourcoach coachRob Robplayed playedininmy myposition positionso sothat that has hasbeen beenaabig bighelp helpbut butalso alsoplaying playingwith withsome some of ofthe thebest bestguards guardsininthe theleague leagueover overthe theyears years has hasalso alsohelped helpedto todevelop developmy mygame. game. ””

institution institutionin inthe theNational NationalBUCS BUCScompetition. competition. “We “Wehave havebeen beenclose closethe thelast lastcouple coupleofofyears years to towinning winningthe theNational Nationaltitle. title.We Wehave haveaagood good group groupagain againthis thisyear yearand andits’ its’aacompetition competitionwe we really reallywant wantto towin. win.”” You Youcan canfollow followConner Connerthis thisseason seasonon on facebook.com/conwash facebook.com/conwash

Conner ConnerWashington Washington

He joined joined Milton Milton Keynes KeynesLions Lionsbefore beforegoing going to America America to to play play in in the theNCAA NCAADiv Div22in in Missouri. Missouri. He joined joined the the Leicester LeicesterRiders Ridersin inJanuary January 2012, 2012, where where he he has has won won44major majortrophies: trophies: BBL BBL Cup Cup 2013 2013 & & 2014, 2014,BBL BBLChampionship Championship 2013, 2013, and and the the BBL BBL Playoffs Playoffs2013. 2013.

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE|| 03 | 03 NICHE NICHE 165

Polimil Ltd

Leicester’s specialist store for Police, Military and Security staff. Frog Island is an unusual address for any business, and just as unusual is one of the business residents. Back in 2004, Polimil Ltd was founded by Sean Cayless and Cliff Oliver, a retired major from Her Majesty’s Special Forces. Initially the company was involved in the development of specialist ballistic protective and ballistic training items. The products were developed in house, and have supported security forces both within Europe and outside. Whilst the company still develops some specialist equipment, the bulk of its trade is in the supply of boots, tactical clothing, hydration equipment, thermal equipment and clothing for a wide customer base including extreme outdoor enthusiasts to cadets, soldiers and policemen, firemen and ambulance service staff. There are hundreds of specialist boots in stock in their warehouse, to suit all requirements, and to suit all budgets. Cliff Oliver, one of the founders

explained that “The real ‘raison d’être’ of the company was to do our best to supply the right equipment for the job in a wide variety of environments, and for a wide variety of roles. We also try to offer really competitive prices and the growth of our internet based sales shows that we are going some way to achieve that.” “Within what seemed to be a very short period, the business was turning over more than a million pounds and we have continued to progress. It’s also nice to be able to offer a place for cadets and uniformed forces, along with serious enthusiasts to visit and get advice from knowledgeable staff. It’s still a business that has a good way to go, especially with our inhouse developed products. It’s an exciting time.” The other owner, Sean Cayless, has been involved in the development of a number of new products in recent times which should assist

in Polimil’s growth. He said “We have very robust plans for further growth, and have recently sought the assistance of one of the UK’s leading internet specialists, Kevyn Roberts, to lead our digital sales growth. Kevyn brings with him a wealth of experience and the results of his efforts are already showing. It is a very interesting period, and we have a strong team of staff to deal with the scale we hope to achieve in future.”

The website www.polimil.co.uk is backed up by its showroom at 5 Frog Island, Leicester, LE3 5AG and whether you are a cadet, a policeman, a soldier, a fireman, ambulance staff, airsoft player or security professional, Polimil has probably got something of interest to you. Quote Niche to recieve 10% off in store.

This is an unusual company with big plans.

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages NICHE | 166

Sports

Dion Dublin to host

An Evening with Gordon Banks On Saturday 9 July 2016 former Leicester City striker, Dion Dublin, will be hosting a very special evening at the King Power Stadium to celebrate the Golden Anniversary of England’s World Cup victory. Niche Magazine are delighted to have joined forces with K Kong Events to bring to you ‘An Evening with Gordon Banks’. The legendary goalkeeper will bring back to life the moment when the England team took the victory 50 years ago.

just £500. Tickets are available from www.ticketbomb.co.uk. And though we find it hard to believe that even 50 years later, there are still some people who don’t know about the world’s most famous goalkeeper, here is everything you need to prepare you for the evening...

The evening will include a twocourse meal, a Question & Answer session and a Photo Meet and Greet opportunity with the man himself.

Career: Millspaugh Steelworks; Rawmarsh Welfare; Millspaugh Steelworks; Sept 1955 Chesterfield; May 1959 LEICESTER CITY; Apr 1967 Stoke City (-1973); 1971-loanHellenic (South Africa); Mar 1977 Fort Lauderdale Strikers; Oct 1977-loan-St.Patrick’s Athletic.

Individual tickets for the evening, sponsored byTotal Motion and Primo IT, can be purchased for £55 each, or tables of 10 can be reserved at a discounted price of

Gordon had a magnificent career, kicking off with competing in the Youth Cup Final in 1956. This was just the start and the next 16 years saw him grow from an

England hopeful to a legendary goalkeeper, sealing his global reputation as No1 after the 1966 World Cup Final victory.

www.nichemagazine.co.uk

www.kkongevents.co.uk

What: An Evening with Gordon Banks When: Saturday 9th July 2016 Where: King Power Stadium www.ticketbomb.co.uk

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 167

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

HERE IS MY LIST OF ESSENTIAL QUALITIES THAT YOUR FUTURE TRAINER MUST HAVE: A THOROUGH ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL If you aren’t assessing then you’re guessing. You can never assume anything about your client, and therefore you need to make sure that your trainer isn’t assuming anything about you. There should be thorough assessments and evaluations before you even think about entering the gym. Your trainer should dig deep about your goals and motivations, and have a good understanding of what makes you tick as a person. They should assess your history and lifestyle; medical history, social support, culinary skills, exercise history, family, job, lifestyle etc. They should assess you physically, range of motion, injuries, coordination, structural balance, posture and strength. They should assess your nutrition and your philosophy about food (even if you don’t think you have one). Missing any of this is unprofessional and is leaving blanks as all of this information influences their advice from day one and how they will progress you and make plans for you.

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

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

NICHE | 152

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

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

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

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

Sports

0116 276 3411 HELLO@UFITSTUDIO.CO.UK UFITSTUDIO.CO.UK

NICHE | 153

Health & Beauty

Party preparation The festive season is almost upon us, and with Christmas and New Year comes parties, celebrations and some serious pampering. Based in the picturesque surroundings of Stoneygate for over 8 years, Beau Aesthetica offer an array of treatments from nail extensions to liposuction for Leicester’s ladies and gents to enjoy. And as one of the Midlands’ most respected providers of cosmetic dermatology procedures, with registered British Association of Cosmetic Doctors (BACD) and fully trained GMC doctors as well as experienced beauty therapists, this is the team who can help you to find the perfect pamper package to make the most of those little black dresses and tuxedos. From the traditional to cuttingedge, the experts at Beau Aesthetica can advise you on a range of treatments to help you perfect your festive figure, face or fingers! With professional therapists NICHE | 170

and medical professionals at hand, Beau Aesthetica is Leicester’s leading clinic for everything from manicures and hair removal to noninvasive weight loss treatments to perfect your Christmas curves. The clinic boasts some of the most up to date equipment in Europe which they combine with the skills of highly trained practitioners to provide the highest standards of care and the very best treatments available in the beauty industry today with both therapists Am and Talia trained to level 3. They say beauty comes from within... It’s true, when you feel good, it shows and allowing your body to detox from time to time is a great way to increase energy, improve your skin, relieve headaches and bloating and can even help to prevent weight gain. When you’re looking for a treatment which will make you look and feel amazing,

Health & Beauty

then Colonic Hydrotherapy may be the solution. With celebrity fans worldwide, Colonic Hydrotherapy is a more natural predecessor of colonic irrigation (and a lot more comfortable). The treatment uses water to stimulate the colon; the colon takes in as much water as it needs and releases the water together with the toxins and waste trapped in the bowel which can be responsible for so many unpleasant side-effects. So, you want to be a smooth mover this Christmas? Most of us will have heard of liposuction, a little extreme for your office party maybe, but Beau Aesthetica are practitioners of a less invasive, but highly effective alternative Vaser®. Vaser® uses very precise and minimally invasive liposuction technology to target fat for an effective but gentle treatment. The procedure is tissue-selective meaning that the tissues surrounding fatty deposits remain protected and although powerful enough to see noticeable results, it is gentle enough to treat delicate areas such as under the chin or the upper arms. Vaser® has proven successful with both men and women; in just one procedure and without the

discomfort of long recovery times associated with traditional Liposuction. A few final festive touches You’re feeling great; your body feels more defined, and it looks like you’ve been to the gym maybe slightly more than you really have in 2015! It’s time to perfect your party look with the little touches which make a huge difference.

‘Polish’ your look and treat yourself to a Jessica Geleration manicure and/or pedicure and keep your hands and feet looking and feeling at their festive best.

You cannot dare to bare those newly sculpted legs (if you’re a lady) without the all-important de-fuzz, so brave the wax treatments and allow Beau Aesthetica to let you feel fabulous and fuzz-free. ‘Polish’ your look and treat yourself to a Jessica Geleration manicure and/or pedicure and keep your hands and feet looking and feeling at their festive best. Or, if you’re feeling fraught with all the preparation and shopping synonymous with the season, why not treat yourself and to a gorgeous Jan Marini facial, guaranteed to put the sparkle back in your skin. So, this year why not celebrate yourself and let Beau Aesthetica help?

www.beauaesthetica.com 0116 270 9141 NICHE | 171

Radiate health and happiness with Sanjaya and her programme for change So many of us are stuck when it comes to our health and wellbeing. Stuck in a cycle of dieting and dreaming of ways to change ourselves in a positive way, but with so many different messages and weight loss concepts we are simply struggling to make anything stick. How do we break this cycle? How do we find a way to lose weight in a healthy, holistic way and sustain it for life? Sanjaya Rakha, a LighterLife Leader, health expert and a Certified Professional CoActive coach, provides the tools for the change in your life that you crave. We caught up with Sanjaya to find out how she has helped change so many people’s lives for the better, she told us; ‘I look at an individuals health in a holistic way through the management of your weight, your outlook on food and nutrition as well as providing advice and coaching to find the right exercise for you. These days there is so much information out there for what is healthy and what isn’t, what diet will work and what won’t but I believe that because everyone’s NICHE | 172

bodies and lifestyle are different there is no one way which works for all; the path to success in weight loss and better health is individual. With this in mind it’s important that clients know they will be getting a tailored plan with me which looks at all aspects of their life in order to improve their wellbeing. Regular meetings and contact are all part of my support system for clients, I act as a support and guide for them on their journey.’ Perhaps most importantly though Sanjaya gives you the tools so that you have the power to make effective and sustainable changes in your life. One aspect of her work is the LighterLife programme and she tells us why this programme, which encompasses nutritional foods and a supportive network of people through the journey of weight management and self-development, works; ‘LighterLife is a programme which has many aspects that I use to help clients and I benefitted greatly from the programme myself. The reason it works is because

it isn’t simply about one thing, it has a holistic approach that I love.’ However, her work goes far beyond any programme, it’s more than that for her; ‘There is nothing I enjoy more than to help and watch people’s lives change positively and for the better right in front of me. I want people to say good-bye to yoyo dieting and uncover the ways to get the weight off, keep it off and feel amazing all round as a result’ She told us. There is no short term method or quick fix with Sanjaya; her outlook and inspirational advice will give you the power to change things for yourself, for good. ‘With my guidance there is no hunger, no loneliness, and all the motivation, empathy and support you could ever need.’ Sanjaya changes people’s lives by giving them the information, outlook and belief to unlock the ways to sustain a healthy life, empowering you to reach your potential and get the results you want. For her unique and committed outlook to

Health & Beauty

changing lives for the better and her outstanding services to the industry she was awarded Highly Commended in our Health and Well-being category at the Niche Business Awards this year and after just one discussion with her, you will see why. Her work within the community and networks of Leicester encompasses many aspects of health and beauty, and Sanjaya recommends a host of beauty, hair, physical fitness and image experts to help further enhance the lives of the people she supports on their journey to a happier and healthier life. If you are a business looking to work with Sanjaya to provide supportive life enhancing services, then get in touch too! Never one to stand still Sanjaya is about to launch a number of different things including a loyalty scheme to add value to her clients, both male and female and a new referral scheme called “Friends of LighterLife” where you refer someone, get an ID tag and earn good commission in the process! Always looking for ways to network, bring footfall to local Leicestershire businesses and open

up collaboration opportunities with business partners; Sanjaya is a key member of Leicestershire’s community both in the personal and business world! Here are just a few out of the many endorsements Sanjaya has spanning 10 years of services to the industry... Anna, pictured in her fabulous before and after shots, positively glows with health since she came to Sanjaya for help; ‘I always explain or refer to Lighterlife as my “light bulb” moment! I can only say that the weight loss ended up to be a by-product of something so much more; Sanjaya opened my eyes to my true values, of which are now totally at the forefront of my world. My confidence has soared and I’m so much more assertive, I constantly strive to be the best me I can be! My first taste of Sanjaya coaching I can still remember…. ‘Sit in the hunger, feel what it’s about, understand why it’s uncomfortable’ I still hear her now, I always give a chuckle, but boy it works! She taught me to stand tall. I went on after management to continue to have coaching with Sanjaya, thought provoking techniques,

never sitting still and bringing back the lightbulb moments have continued to support me through my new role and the challenges I face.I know my journey was mine and one I’m incredibly proud of and thankful to Sanjaya for that.’ Anna lost 3 stone and went from size 14 to 8/10, BMI from 29 to 22.9 bust from 102.3 cm to 93cm, waist from 87.8cm to 70.2 cm and hips from 106.7 cm to 94.2cm. Lisa, also pictured; ‘I think I only really accepted the fact that I had piled on a load of weight when I saw photographs of myself holding my first grandson. Previously I had managed to convince myself that I was ‘okay’. That being a bit overweight was acceptable at my age. But then, when I saw those photographs I realised something had to be done! After my initial meeting with Sanjaya I was so inspired that I wanted to start immediately. With Sanjaya’s support and constant encouragement it was easy to lose the weight. It felt almost too easy. It wasn’t long before I was down to an acceptable weight and BMI. I was getting more attention – from men as well as women. I even had a guy stop me in the shop car park to tell me how

NICHE | 173

lovely I looked. Fantastic! I had found the old Lisa. The Lisa that liked to dress nicely, talk to people, socialise – and my confidence had returned! It felt like an amazing transformation. I would highly recommend Sanjaya as being a fantastic inspiration to anyone who has ‘lost themselves’ and need that bit of encouragement to get the weight off and start living again!’ Lisa lost over 3 stone, BMI from 32.3 to 25. Measurements went from 115.2 cm to 100 cm bust, waist 100cm to 82 cm, hips 122cm to 104cm dress size 20/22 to 12. Joy, also pictured; ‘I first saw Sanjaya in 2010, and since then I have learned so much about myself and I’m very proud at what I have achieved. I have always been one to wear good colours and give that feeling of youth, but now so many people comment on how my health glows now too. I can walk without a stick and my husband and I travel worldwide - you could not get me onto a plane before. My husband is incredibly supportive in this journey and the biggest change is learning to accept that life is not perfect all the time. Sanjaya calls NICHE | 174

it crooked thinking.I have always recommended Sanjaya for her care and passion in this work and met my best friend now at her meetings. It`s been more than worthwhile on so many counts.’ Joy lost over 8 stone and is still losing went from size 30 to 16/18, her BMI was 54 to 33 and bust 140cm to 96 cm, waist 145cm to 94 cm and hips 163cm to 106cm. Before starting LighterLife Joy had cancer of her bowel due to her health and weight and once in remission started LighterLife. Her prior illness motivates her to keep what she has so far lost off!! You can do the same. Change your life for the better, for good with Sanjaya Rakha.

Contact Sanjaya today for an informal and confidential chat or book into a free one-hour initial consultation and gain all the support and tools you need to make positive changes to your life. Call Sanjaya now on: 07725368388 email: sanjaya. rakha@lighterlifecounsellor.com

www.lighterlife.co.uk/sanjayarakha twitter: @lighterlifeleic LinkedIn: sanjayapandit

Health & Beauty

Get back on track with Craniosacral Therapy

Having got to a point where I felt I was ‘on the edge’ I decided it was time I found some support. But, where do you look for that support when it feels like everyone is leaning on you to be strong? With everyday life and stresses pulling me in different directions combined with a feeling that everything was out of balance I realised I was neglecting myself. I’m not one for visiting the doctor very often and wanting to explore other routes before taking a prescription I turned to Craniosacral Therapy. No, I didn’t know what it was either but as it was recommended to me by a good friend, who even booked it for me, I turned up to see Priti Coles open minded and without any preconceived ideas about what would happen. Priti welcomed me in and explained what the therapy actually was; a holistic gentle way of working with the body using light touch. She explained that she would be placing her hands lightly on me in order to listen to my body and that the positive healing through this approach works on the central nervous system relieving stress. The therapy would re-balance me by tapping into my central nervous system, which is connected to all of my craniosacral system. Still not really knowing what to expect I climbed up onto the massage

couch with intrigue. Priti lit a scent and waved it across my body explaining that she was getting rid of any negativity in my body. She asked that I should let myself be as I needed to be, and explained that there would be no judgement, no right and no wrong. My response took me by surprise; it was as if a tap had been turned on and tears streamed down my face. All the emotion, years of hurt and disappointment, as well as grief for the recent loss of my mother, came flooding out. Priti made me feel still and calm to allow my body a chance to heal itself. Never having met Priti before, she didn’t know me nor anything about my life, yet she spoke gently about things that there was no way she could have known. She tapped into a side of me that no one knows and was able to explain my inner thoughts without me even speaking. She knew what my personal demons were and the effect of the treatment was profound. I can honestly say I left feeling emotionally drained but for the first time in my life I felt like someone totally understood me and could help me take control of all these different aspects of my life. I felt like I had been listened to and understood in the truest sense of the word without me actually having said anything. Her therapy

and words in this one session have given me the strength to deal with my feelings and to heal myself. I have since been back for more therapy and will definitely continue with this. It’s something I never in a million years thought I would take time out of my busy life to do but it’s possibly the most important, positive decision I have ever made. Unless you have experienced Priti first hand it’s really hard to explain, there are no words that can tell you how it is but what I can say is if you are stressed, if there is something playing on your mind, if there is something niggling away at you then spending that hour out will be the best thing you ever do! Contact Priti to get your life back on track and experience this positive change for yourself.

07795 361 288 www.pritibodies.co.uk

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0116 231 2905 NICHE | 175

Health & Beauty

Consultation Number Three! Hands On fabulous! Looking and feeling Last issue we saw one of Mr These therapies involvecold the chill We’ve allpatients been feeling Sankar’s returnthe to him with therapist using her/his hands of winter creeping up on us and we a huge smile after she had treated well as “tools” give you a a areasprobably going to be needing her with sclerotherapy for treatment. These canusual. be oils, lot more TLCveins. than thread needles, poultices or massage tools Enchanted Angels understand such as acrystal wandsevery and hot we need pick-me-up now This time we welcomed a lady back stones. they’ve put and then, that’s to the clinic whowhy had previously together some fabulous pamper undergone a breast reduction. Pressure ispackages. applied against the Having 1.5 kilos removed from muscles and bones, in the same her H-cup breasts, she needed no direction asLook the flow of the blood words - the reliefGood she expressed returning to to the heart, helping “We wantwas you look fabulous and clear to see. increase flow thesparkle blood give youoxygen that head tointoe andready release so you are for toxins. any occasion,” Her painful stitches needed to be Enchanted Angels beauty expert, removed. To make her feel at ease, Acupressure is a very ancient Goldy said. Mr Sankar putBains, in his best efforts form of healing which uses finger to explain his instructions in both pressure on points ofthe theaward body to Get glowing English and her with first language. He activate Sienna the body’s natural energy winning X spray tan, Shellac taught her how to look after her to promote health.and (14 system day polish) file and wounds and invited her paint back any every girl needs their eyebrows time before her next appointment if Bowen therapy is a hands on tinted shaped. sheand needed him.£50 muscle release therapy. Using rolling movements to Orgentle upgrade eyeshe lashcould tint Although sorewith andan tired, increaseand lymphatic drainage and re a strip lash. £70 not wait to tell us how slim she felt align skeletal imbalances. now that she is a D-cup and was so Feel Good of wearing excited at the thought Quantum touch therapy combines Have the ultimate using nice clothes onpampering her holiday! touch meditation and controlled the unique spa brand [comfort breathing techniques tofacial focus zone] prescriptive To make certain luxury his patients as energy and activate the body’s in well as a back, neck and shoulder are ready and fully informed, a built healing process. massage to relax and relieve minimum of two consultations tension. £50 are usually needed. Mr Sankar Reflexology treats the client by encourages communication applying pressure the soles of Or upgrade with a on blissful Vinulux between friends and family. the feet. Pedicure and soak your feet into “People should seek opinions purecommit. heaven.The £70lady we before they Therapists work on the 10 energy saw today is part of a different zones of the body that are reflected “We use only the best products culture. Often these ladies are in your feet. to see that and make every effort dependent on their families and each individual feelswith looked after. It need to consult them,” 361 288 each and should be07795 an experience he explained. pritibodies1@gmail.com every time!” 0116 2769401 www.cosmeticsurgeon.org.uk Book now on 0116 3194952

Raising a brow for the right reasons It’s said that eyebrows are the ‘frame’ for your features; done properly they can enhance your look and add glamour every day but, done badly and well, we’ve all seen it! Women have been trying to perfect their brows for many years but, despite our best efforts, it’s often hard to consistently achieve the perfect complementary brow day in, day out; we may have the solution. “Women spend a considerable amount of time getting ready in the morning, including time spent to pencilling in and plucking eyebrows. With the introduction of semi-permanent makeup perfectly balanced and shaped eyebrows can be easily achieved every day, with minimal fuss.” Also known as micro pigmentation, semi-permanent makeup is a technique used to implant pigment into the dermal layer of the skin, a little bit like a tattoo. The procedures are all medically approved and tested, designed to be completely safe and virtually pain-free. With minimal maintenance required semi-permanent makeup can offer anyone the opportunity to enhance their natural features and save themselves some precious minutes in the morning rush. Beau Aesthetica 0116 270 9141 www.beauaesthetica.com

Looking and feeling fabulous! We’ve all been feeling the cold chill of winter creeping up on us and we are probably going to be needing a lot more TLC than usual. Enchanted Angels understand we need a pick-me-up every now and then, that’s why they’ve put together some fabulous pamper packages. Look Good “We want you to look fabulous and give you that head to toe sparkle so you are ready for any occasion,” Enchanted Angels beauty expert, Goldy Bains, said. Get glowing with the award winning Sienna X spray tan, Shellac (14 day polish) file and paint and every girl needs their eyebrows tinted and shaped. £50 Or upgrade with an eye lash tint and a strip lash. £70

I ‘f pr lo but

Wo th de ha p da

“ a i spe eye sem bala be

Feel Good Have the ultimate pampering using the unique spa brand [comfort zone] prescriptive luxury facial as well as a back, neck and shoulder massage to relax and relieve tension. £50

Also

Or upgrade with a blissful Vinulux Pedicure and soak your feet into pure heaven. £70

“We use only the best products and make every effort to see that each individual feels looked after. It should be an experience each and every time!” Book now on 0116 3194952

NICHE | 40

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0116 231 2905 NICHE | 177

pi th Th a

sem any t the

Achieve it with Cambridge Weight Plan! Losing weight is never easy, particularly so if you are trying to do it on your own. You can start off with all the right intentions but as you start the journey there will inevitably be times when you feel tempted to fall off the wagon. This is where you need support, ideally from someone who has been there. You need someone who can advise , motivate and support you along the way. Eileen and Bryan Larder are your local Consultants for Cambridge Weight Plan, a flexible, supportive, tailored weight loss programme. The Plan has been successfully helping people lose weight and keep it off for more than 30 years the it works because it provides you with the tools to help you do it! Your Consultants Eileen and Bryan will explain the Cambridge Weight Plan Steps programme including the four stages of each weight loss programme; preparation, weight loss, stabilisation and long-term weight management. But more than this they will be there for you to support and guide every step of the way helping make your weight goal a reality! eileen1943@hotmail.com 0116 288 9449

NICHE | 178

Christmas is for Caring... Forever Essential Oils Tri-Pak £34.19

Aloe Fleur de Jouvence Collection £92.59

Aroma Spa Collection £62.86

Features 5ml sample sizes of all three single notes: peppermint, lemon and lavender. The bottles are encased in a beautifully presented display box.

The name given to this exclusive facial care collection with collagen and elastin speaks for itself, ‘The Flower of Youth’. It offers your skin everything it needs to appear healthy and radiant, from deep pore cleansing to nutrient-rich moisturising care.

A luxurious three-piece collection for an in-home aromatherapy spa experience. Indulge your body with high quality ingredients including aloe vera, lavender, white tea and essential oils found in the Relaxation Bath Salts, Relaxation Shower Gel and Relaxation Massage Lotion.

Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea £12.63

Flawless Master Brush Collection £24.00

A soothing and refreshing caffeine-free herbal tea, to calm and promote well-being. Naturally low in calories and delicious served warm or with ice as a refreshing alternative.

Brushes included: Powder Brush, Blush Brush, Foundation Brush, Concealer Brush, Lip Brush, Eyeliner Brush, Crease Brush, Eyeshadow Brush, Smudger Brush, and Brow Brush/Comb.

Forever Lean £34.66 For people who love sport and want to make sure they eat a healthy, balanced diet. These well-balanced capsules contain valuable fibre from the prickly pear, proteins derived from kidney beans and the vital trace element chromium.

Order your Christmas Gifts Today! Life Balance

Fitness & Weight Management Beauty & Wellness Animal & Home Flawless by Sonya

For more information call Chrissy Richardson

Tel: 07877076395

Email: chrissy@flp.com NICHE | 179

Relax and Pamper at Eden Hall Eden Hall invites you for a day of relaxation and pampering; a day away from the stresses and strains of everyday life and a chance for you to have some much needed me time. Eden Hall is a place where luxury and quality are at the heart of everything. Whether you are visiting with friends, a loved one or looking for some time alone, Eden has something for everyone. Discover the salt water vitality pool, unwind in the Herbal Caldarium which is complete with Eden grown Lavender, relax in the outdoor hot tubs, soothe your body with the saunarium and ignite the senses in the rose scented steam room; when visiting for the day you can use these luxuriously designed areas at your leisure and truly make yourself comfortable. With a day of relaxing your body may be craving a little fine dining too, and at the Taste of Eden restaurant you will find an array of tantilising treats and healthy fresh, seasonal options. Set in serene surroundings your dining experience will further enhance your time at the spa and provide extra an extra special element to your day. Then there are the all important treatments; choose from a menu of carefully considered treatments which are designed to relax you, pamper you and that actually work. The need to please and welcome you into the spa is paramount to all of the Eden Hall team. With an array of treatment packages which renew you from head to toe, the difficulty for you will come in choosing. The Simply Spa day package provides you with access

to the wonderful facilities for the day and of course you can add some of the many treatments available, ideal as a treat to yourself every now and then. Or, why not treat yourself that little bit further and go for the Serene or Signature spa package, both of which include a three course lunch and a bespoke treatment too. When we visited recently we decided to really indulge ourselves and opted for the Signature spa package, it’s really very special and includes an array of treatments using either Elemis or Clarins, a three course lunch at the Taste of Eden, full use of the facilities and a complimentary gift to take home.

We say; ‘Eden Hall is a place where I go to truly unwind. The stunning surroundings, excellent facilities, delicious lunches and amazing treatments always make me feel welcome, pampered and totally relaxed. It feels like a world away from everyday life and that is really what makes it so very special, it’s a retreat for the mind, body and soul. This visit I had the Elemis Signature package which was bliss. Starting with a bespoke massage my aches and pains melted away and the following body wrap enveloped me in a nourishing, moisturing treat. Then came the gorgeous Illuminating facial which gave me a lovely glow and I left feeling completely relaxed, invigorated and renewed. An absolute treat.’ Jenny Cross ; Company Director. ‘I always get excited when a visit

to Eden Hall is due; it means I can get some much needed me time! I love the facilities and the chance to discover all the rooms and what they have to offer. The lunches are amazing and the treatments feel like the icing on the cake. My treatment used Clarins products, which I love anyway, and using the Eau Dynamisante treatment fragrance I enjoyed a wonderful body scrub, facial cleanse, exfoliation and massage. Incredible! It left me feeling soft and smooth, relaxed and revitalised; amazing as always Eden Hall.’ Sally Smith; Account Manager. ‘This was my first visit to Eden Hall and I have to say I am more than impressed, it was truly amazing. The beautiful building, friendly staff and excellent facilities made me feel like I was on a wonderful retreat. I had a Clarins Signature Package and it was incredible, I felt like it was exactly what I needed. With so much going on it’s easy to forget about what we might need for ourselves and for me, Eden Hall was exactly the tonic I needed for my well-being.’ Emily Jackson; Account Manager. All these fabulous facilities and high quality treatments make Eden Hall the perfect gift for a loved one this Christmas, or for much needed relaxation time for yourself. So, what are you waiting for? Take that much needed me time that you deserve.

www.edenspa.co.uk 01636 525 555

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0116 231 2905 NICHE | 180

Perfection from head to toe for mind, body and soul... Enchanted Angels are devoted to the wellbeing of our customers. We offer a growing range of holistic and beauty treatments and only use the finest products. We pride ourselves on providing services which are tailor made to each and every customer, and at times and locations which are both flexible and convenient. We strive to be the best we can be; seeking out and learning from feedback from our customers at every opportunity. Achieving the highest levels of satisfaction is our daily mission.

We will never accept second best. (Comfort zone) Facials Waxing

Eyelash and eyebrow treatments Massage

Skinbreeze orbital microdermabrasion

Pamper parties Mother and daughter treatments Great package deals available. We believe in loyalty Pop in and join our Loyalty Scheme

11a Leicester Road Oadby, Leicester LE2 5DB Telephone 0116 319 4952 enchantedangelsbeauty@gmail.com Facebook: EnchantedAngels Instagram: @enchanted_angels_beauty

Open 9.30-8.00 Monday to Friday 9.00-4.00 Saturday

Image by Scott Choucino, courtesy of Orange Tree Weddings

NICHE | 182

Wedding Belles

A Wedding Feast for all! Taking a chance with the food at your Wedding is not an option - it is vital to get it right! The culinary delights you and your guests devour need to be memorable and for all the right reasons. Dimblebee Catering know how important it is, so much so that they are fast becoming the leading caterer in the Midlands. Having catered for hundreds of events and some of the best venues in Midlands their experience at providing gastronomic delights for your big day is second to none, priding themselves on their flexibility to suit your tastes and requirements and their friendly yet professional approach to enhance this vital element of your big day. With over 40 years worth of experience under their hats, executive chef Samantha and her team excel in providing high quality food using local, seasonal produce and are passionate about giving food flair for your event. This family run high quality catering company has grown exponentially having catered for over 600 weddings and events since launching in 2011 as well as high profile wedding venues including Wollaton Hall, Newstead Abbey, Ladywood Estate, Keythorpe Manor, Calke Abbey, Bridge House Barn, The Guildhall and Nottingham Castle amongst many others. Whatever your wedding style, whether a formal sit down meal or Dimblebee’s own fantastic ‘family style’ sharing table menus, canapés, bowl foods or that last bite of the day, their focus on high quality handmade home made fare is always the right type of food to get the right kind of mmmm.

Always providing the bespoke service that you wish for your big day, Dimblebee Catering are very flexible with their service.

Specializing in seasonal British food you can opt for traditional formal banqueting styles, relaxed informal events or garden parties and celebrations. A winter wedding will be perfectly complimented by food fit for the season and give you and your guests the quality feast your event deserves! Always providing the bespoke service that you wish for your big day, Dimblebee Catering are very flexible with their service, you can even create your own menu according to your palette and guests’ dietary requirements, working with you and your budget to make your culinary dreams a reality! Make sure your big day goes without a culinary hitch and contact the friendly, award winning, team at Dimblebee’s.

0116 283 3327 www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk

NICHE | 183

A venue with style and substance A unique city venue in the heart of Leicester provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding day. Situated next to the stunning city cathedral and the newly appointed gardens St Martins House is a stunning location for those looking for style and elegance fronted by a friendly and accommodating team. At first instance you might assume that a city centre wedding would be a contemporary affair but in fact, the Grade II listed building that is now St Martins has a wonderful vibrant history and is a fantastic part of our city’s culture. For over 130 years, it was a place where the youth of Leicester

NICHE | 184

were educated and began its life in 1877 as Wyggeston Hospital Boys School - itself on the site of the older Wyggeston Hospital (founded in 1513) - which then moved out to the west of the city. During this time, it was put to use and adapted by Alderman Newton and Leicester Grammar Schools. The beautiful building also stands in the heart of the historic quarter of the city of Leicester now made even more significant since the renovations and exhibitions for Richard III. Beneath the building are the foundations of the fort that was the basis for Roman Leicester and on top of that lie medieval and more contemporary remains. It sits next to St Martins Cathedral and gardens, which are perfect for those all-important photographs and within a few minutes walk are some of the hidden gems of Leicester’s heritage, which make for some ideal locations for you to say

your I Do’s including St Nicholas Church the Town Hall and Guildhall. Beneath the building are the foundations of the fort that was the basis for Roman Leicester, and on top of that lie medieval and more contemporary remains. It sits right next to St Martins Cathedral and gardens which are ideal for those all important photographs, and within a few minutes’ walk are some of the hidden gems of Leicester’s heritage which make some ideal locations for you to say your I Do’s including St Nicholas Church, the Town Hall and Guildhall which is right next door. Within the venue itself, the stunning Grand Hall lives up to its name and is the perfect backdrop to your celebrations with its tall ceiling and many unique focal points the hall makes for an interesting and flexible canvas upon which

Wedding Belles

to create the wedding day of your dreams. Large enough to accommodate your guests but with an intimate feel, it’s a room that lends itself perfectly to celebration and gathering, and it has a wonderfully atmospheric ambiance for its size. Whatever your choice for music or entertainment the extensive opportunities the space provides you can create the ideal party atmosphere. Sound systems and lighting are all taken care of and the important catering is covered by a range of options, whether you are looking for relaxed and low-key or an all out feast, the team have the contacts, skills and know how to make it happen. No matter what your vision for decoration and style the venue can be arranged to suit your wedding wishes.You and your guests will have full use of the bar within the main hall and have access to a number of areas within the building so you, and your party can feel relaxed and taken care of. The expert team know just how important your wedding day is and will help with all that you require from the smallest of details to those major decisions including colour pallettes, menus and decoration touches. The friendly and professional team help make your wedding dreams a reality and

Unique and inviting wedding venue in the heart of our city

your dedicated wedding planner will be with you every step of the way ensuring everything goes as smoothly as imaginable leaving you to simply enjoy. St Martins delight in working with you to make your wedding dreams reality and always exceed expectations. This unique and inviting wedding venue in the heart of our city is the distinguished choice for your allimportant wedding day providing a bespoke service from start to finish. www.stmartinshouse.com Telephone: 0116 261 5200

NICHE | 185

Image curtesy of Divine Boutique, Kelsey Rose

Wedding Belles

Photobooth fun with Limelite! The perfect way to capture all the fun of your big day or event, Limelite Photobooth for hire is perfect. The stylish booths provide a unique opportunity for your guests to be entertained and create memories in the process! Guaranteed to be a winner with your guests your personalised booth aims to make everyone who visits have an unforgettable experience. Providing the very best in the latest technology and allowing you to make use of their fun digital facial props as well the new marryoke software your guests will be able to sing their hearts out whilst being captured on video; combining the memories from the booth with the fun of karaoke! Every package offered comes with no restrictions on how many times you can visit the booth at your event. The photos and videos will then be uploaded to your own

secured gallery on their website, and guests will also leave with an instant print. Using the very best in quality equipment your prints will be of exceptional quality and provide memories to last a lifetime for you and your guests. With your booth comes a staff member too to ensure your event goes as smoothly as possible, they are experienced, approachable and friendly fitting seamlessly into proceedings! At affordable prices packages include hiring from 2 hours upwards. Niche’s Sally Smith thinks it’s a wonderful service; “ I can’t fault the service, we and all the guests had so much fun! We had a variety of props to play with, we could record personal messages for the bride and groom and everyone had a picture to walk away with! There was so much attention to detail with even the background colour on the images personalised along with our own wording. All contact

with the team was brilliant from start to finish too; they couldn’t do enough for us! I cant recommend them highly enough!’ To give your wedding, celebration or corporate event that added fun factor then contact Limelite Photobooth for further details.

www.limelitephotobooths.co.uk 07415 538840

NICHE NICHE| |187 51

What’s on the wedding menu? The Dimblebee Catering Company is one of the most highly acclaimed wedding caterers in the East Midlands, and our award winners for Wedding Services! With a team of passionate chefs and friendly, professional staff they ensure that the catering at your event is of an impeccable standard and enjoyable for all. So, what kind of food can you expect from the award winning Dimblebee’s? Well, to give you an idea we selected a few favourites from an example wedding breakfast menu to give you an idea... Starters Homemade Pâté made with chicken livers and champagne served with sweet red onion chutney. Plum Tomato and Buffalo Mozzarella Stack with a basil and pine nut dressing, dressed with micro shoots. Crayfish and Smoked Salmon Salad with a light horseradish and crème fraiche beetroot relish.

Main Course Beef Bourguignon ‘Family Style’ Table Sharing Pots with dauphinoise potatoes and French green beans. Roast Leg of Lamb infused with rosemary, served with garlic fondant potato, redcurrant and port sauce (table sharing, carved by your nominated guest). Pan-fried Salmon Fillet, new potato and chive cake with hollandaise sauce. Fillet of Wild Sea Bass, fresh seafood linguini and a champagne beurre blanc. French trim Chicken Breast with wild mushrooms and garlic sauce, sage buttered mash and green beans. Pan fried Spinach and Ricotta Cheese Rotolo, buttered leek compote tomato coulis. (v)

Dessert Tart Citron with a mixed berry compote. Chocolate Trio Mousse. Baileys Crème Brûlée with fresh raspberries and a mini heart shaped shortbread biscuit.

www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk 0116 283 3327 NICHE | 188

a ac vai Exc on lab lus M le w ive ag az hen disc in e you oun W ed me ts di nt ng io Ed n itio n

Health & Beauty

Christopher Scotney Wedding Wear Specialists 132 London Road, Leicester. Telephone 0800 525836 to request a brochure or for further information. Free Car Park â&#x20AC;˘ Air Conditioning

www.weddinghireleicester-scotney.co.uk

Care & Charity

Together we CAN find a cure Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancers, yet just a mere 1% of the national spend on cancer funding is allocated to this devastating disease. Local charity ‘Loubob’s Legacy’, the fundraising group set up by Aylee Penn in memory of her 13 year old son Louis Kenney, has already raised a staggering £31,000 since starting the charity last June. Louis tragically passed from a terminal brain tumour last January, and Aylee has thrown Image by Loubobs Legacy

NICHE | 190

herself into fundraising on behalf of the regional charity Brain Tumour Research, as well as providing families with cancer support. Local upcoming rock artist James Plimmer wanted to help and has written a Christmas Song called ‘A Christmas Without You’ and it will be available to buy from the iTunes store on November 2nd, with half of the proceeds going towards this amazing charity. James will be performing at 13 Christmas light switch on’s throughout Leicestershire, promoting his

single release. Aylee says ‘ I feel very moved and excited that James wants to help promote our cause. I can no longer do anything physically for my son, but I want to ensure that his lasting legacy is greater funding for research and much more awareness about this dreadful condition. I know Louis would be so pleased and proud to know that his local community has already helped to raise over £30,000 in his memory.

Facebook/loubobslegacy

Care & Charity

“Tonight’s

the Night”!

Tilinanu Christmas party... Join us on saturday 21st november 2015 6.30 to 1am at The Platinum Suite Leicester, LE1 2LB (ample parking available)

Dance the night away with the amazing international artist Dylan Cassidy . . . s u Tickets PlThe one y £75 each 3 cour and onl se din

s r e t s o o R

ner includ ed. Tables o f 10 tic

uestnces g s u Plappeara

kets on sale now!

The world’s no1 look-alike sound-alike

Rod Stewart

dance all night and have a great time! dress to party!

www.lovetilinanu.org.uk

For tickets please contact Yvonne at: Latimer Design, 21 Woodgate, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7LL

Tel: 01162 30 11 66 / Mob: 07740 72 44 91

email: latimerdesign@hotmail.co.uk Please make cheques payable to Tilinanu Orphanage. Thank you for your support.

NICHE | 191

Meet the team Michele Goodchild Care coordinator

Ade Anifowose Operational Manager

Main responsibilities: Co-ordinating support for clients who may require personal, domestic or social inclusion support. Her favourite part of her job: assessments because this means that I get to meet the clients faceto-face! Why she went into the care sector: I wanted to work in a job which was emotionally rewarding and challenging rather than focused on material aspects. Her hobbies and interests: Amateur dramatics, charity work, history, cinema and music. Did you know? Michele is a member of the Coalition for Collaborative Care, which meets in London every six weeks. The group advocate person-centred care for clients nationwide.

Main responsibilities: I oversee the total running of the company. I ensure all staff are trained up to the required standards. I also ensure their requests are looked into and dealt with accordingly, hence making sure their wellbeing is given priority as this will contribute to good and high productivity. Favorites part of your job: Seeing that everything is running smoothly. Why you went into the care sector: I come from a medical background and have always loved caring for people. I had also worked as a Carer for a few years. Hobbies and interests: Cooking, Reading, socializing. Did you know? I belong to a hospitality group where I am able to practice my love for taking care of people and also to cook. My

NICHE | 192

joy for what I do is reflected in my job as I am known to be very hard working and always making sure everything is functioning and running smoothly.

1 The Crescent, King Street, Leicester LE1 6RX

Care & Charity

Understanding Dementia It was World Alzheimer’s Day on the 21st September this year and to continue to help bring about awareness of the mental illness, Eagle Care talk about how they care for the elderly living with dementia. According to the Daily Mail, one in three children will suffer from dementia. It is the term used to describe different brain disorders that affect memory, thinking, behaviour and emotion, according to alz.co.uk. Michele told us that Alzheimers is the most common form of the illness that affects 400,000 in the UK! Eagle Care’s dementia service users are treated respectfully in their own homes with care plans person-centred to suit the needs of the individual whilst making every effort to support their dignity. “Although treated in a personcentred way, our dementia clients

will need various types of support depending on their needs and requirements. They may need someone to assist them to compile a shopping list or assist them to walk to a local shop.” “All clients can offer their own form of challenge although dementia clients respond very positively to carers who demonstrate patience, empathy and understanding toward them,” Michele said. Caring for patients the Eagle Care way is specific and in depth. Ruth and her team select staff members who are perfectly suited to caring for those with dementia. Carers present an understanding of how each client is affected by the diagnosed dementia type and will then receive further training and are supported by team leaders.

to various organisations who can provide further help. Choreographer, Arlene Phillips admitted that she could have supported her father who suffered with Alzheimers better if she’d had more knowledge of the condition (Daily Mail17/09/15). Michele explained: “Whether clients have or haven’t families to offer support, we as an agency monitor how the clients are feeling and report our concerns to the appropriate person.” To find out how they can help you or a loved one go to www.omobolarutholugbenga. vpweb.co.uk or call a friendly member of staff on 0116 255 2398

But the care doesn’t stop here. The dedicated care group ensures that family members are informed on the condition by educating and advising as well as signposting

‘We promote independence by improving health and emotional wellbeing, improving quality of life, making a positive contribution and increasing choices and control’

NICHE | 193

Broadcasting, a band and a lady called Betty On a rainy Wednesday morning, I eagerly awaited my interviewees; 2 of Leicester’s most loved radio presenters – Tony Wadsworth and Julie Mayer. Best known for the award-winning BBC Leicester show “Clueless”, we wanted to delve into how they became the radio duo of today, and how they found love on the journey. And, as Tony introduced himself as Julie, I knew this interview would be one to remember! It may come as a surprise to their listeners but neither Tony nor Julie ever had any intention of becoming broadcasters. Tony began life assisting with his late Father’s angling business and it was his Father who unintentionally launched his radio career. BBC Leicester had acquired the services of Tony’s Dad to produce a brief weekly sports report and when his Dad took a well-deserved holiday, Tony agreed to stand in, and that was the catalyst. He was asked to carry on contributing to the station; they gave him a recorder and sent him on his way! Broadcasting became a much-loved hobby, evolving into freelancing for network radio alongside his ‘proper’ job. In 1981, the increasing demand starting to take his toll, but Tony had caught the radio ‘bug’ and, knowing he could only continue with one career, he set his sights on the radio. NICHE | 194

Julie came from a very creative background and a family of tailors, which naturally led her to train as a seamstress, and she did very well at it. After working for the National Theatre London, Julie moved to Leicester with her young son for his education where she found herself at the Haymarket Theatre doing everything from selling popcorn to costume production and this is where ‘fate’ kicked in.

plus-fours; no easy task as he is a bit short, and I ended up raiding the children’s department to find him some that would fit! He was very silly though and I liked his daft sense of humour. He was definitely memorable!” Tony added, “She wouldn’t stop talking, she talked me to death! That’s when I asked if she’d ever thought about radio!” “We arranged for her to come over to the studio and see what it was like”, Tony continued, “She just took over the desk and the rest is history!”

She was running the costume hire department on the fateful day that Tony needed some plus-fours! He and a co-presenter were to drive a vintage car, named Priscilla, from Lands End to John O’Groats and had a photo shoot planned with the Radio Times for which they wanted to look the part. So, Julie was tasked with providing the costumes. Julie reminisced, “It wasn’t exactly ‘love at first sight’ when I met Tony; he came in looking for a pair of

By 1987 both were on the payroll working at Pebble Mill; with Julie working as a Reporter and Tony presenting but on separate shows. Tony helped to mentor Julie as she learnt the business and as their similarities began to show; Tony and Julie became the perfect duo both at work and at home. Julie said, “Often we could be seen (and heard) in the corridors having a quarrel! We’re married, that’s what we do. One day the then Manager was in the vicinity and exclaimed “We need to put that on radio” and so he did”. The station gave them the late show, airing across 9 stations from Wales to the Wash, and the chemistry hit the airwaves.

Care & Charity

Tony told me, “What you see is what you get. It can get a bit stormy and we forget we’re on the radio. I remember one argument taking place mid-show and Julie just got up and stormed out! Listeners were wondering if she’d come back. Thankfully, she did, she’d just gone for a cuppa to calm down!” Julie added, “Nowadays it’s quite beneficial when we are looking at the topics for the late show they often come from disagreements we’ve had.”

with 13 heifers! When I asked “what about the smell?” I was simply told “they’ll get used to you.” Tony remembered. “We had no idea when we were coming back, just that we had to wait for another cargo plane to fetch us (incidentally this one was full of exotic flowers!). We were diverted to Amsterdam and the pilots left the plane with orders not

As part of their late show they often question couples who work together so we thought we’d turn the tables and how they still seem to like each other so much? “The arguments have changed as we (or I) I have matured. But you have to separate home and work.” Julie explained, “We’ve gone in before not speaking but as soon as the mikes come on we just get on with it. And, after 4 hours of having to be nice we usually like each other again by the end.” Off-air the two have got up to just as much mischief and my favourite story had to be “Save the Cows” (a charity which works with families in Uganda), where the pair were literally shipped over to Africa to do features for BBC Leicester and Radio. “We were in a cargo plan

to touch any buttons. We thought they were coming back, but they got a hotel for the night and left us to sleep on the freezing plane... never travel cargo-class.”

over £160,000, performing once a month on average. Tony is John Lennon and the band are sometimes supported by the likes of Elvis and Englebert, donning his best Liverpudlian accent Tony simply said, “It’s bloody good fun!” And Julie, well she made the dreams of her 90-year-old friend, Betty, become reality. Betty had been adopted at 6 weeks old and her plea to Julie was to help her find out who she was so she could lay flowers on her parent’s graves. Julie’s tenacity paid off as she found not only Betty’s parents but a living cousin, meaning Betty now has a huge extended family in Wales. Julie said, “It’s got to be the best thing I’ve done, my very own take on ‘who do you think you are?” but so satisfying, I’d love to do it all again.” And when they’re not terrorising the roads and airwaves of Leicester on their weekly ‘Clueless’ hunt, the couple are busy doing the schoolrun again, being grandparents (and great grandparents) and enjoying the family being close to home.

Life’s a little different now, as they only present together on weekends, but they haven’t stopped finding ways to entertain their public. Tony is part of a fantastic and unique band, The UpBeatles, who only perform for charities and to date have helped raise

twitter: @tonywaddo twitter: @julie_mayer NICHE | 195

D E E Y N O E

We are looking for people to help support our veterans in there time of need. Could you help with...Housing, Toileteries, Volenteering, Food, Clothing, Furniture, Jobs www.shouldertoshoulder.co.uk info@shouldertoshoulder.co.uk 0116 286 8521

Care & Charity

Specialist Tailored Dementia Care

Salus Dementia Care offer bespoke care for those specifically affected by Dementia. They are different from other care providers as their care is specific to those affected by dementia, whatever their age or degree of care required. At the heart of Salus is a dedication to providing a home-care service designed to help people continue living independently with confidence; this ethos is at the centre of the services that they offer and most importantly the way in which they are offered. All Salus staff have been trained to tend to each person and meet their own needs with the understanding that everyone is different and requires different things to fulfil their care wishes. What this means is that their care creates an environment which enables personal independence at all times,

maintaining an individuals chosen lifestyle and ensuring their dignity and privacy are respected. With specialist knowledge of dementia, Salus can provide 24Hour Care to adults with either a live in carer or on a contracted hours’ basis. Both personal-care assessment and risk assessments can be carried out as well as call in home help services, cleaning services, transport and shopping services and much more besides. Whatever is needed Salus can provide and does so in a tailored way to meet those needs. Each case is different and Salus unfailingly take care of the individual on an individual case study basis, so you will consistently be assured that the correct care is being provided. Salus invite you to get in touch to start a discussion about finding the right care for you or a loved one’s needs.

www.salusdementiacare.co.uk 01455 293437

The Soft Touch Arts Runners halfmarathon running team. Directors Joe Crofton, Christina Wigmore & Danny Myers and Business Supporters Jacqui Womersley from The Practical Printer and Jacqui Dean from Key Virtual Assistance. They all completed the half-marathon and raised nearly £2000 in sponsorship to kit out a healthy-eating project kitchen at the charity’s new premises at 50 New Walk, to help disadvantaged young people learn about healthy eating and develop cooking and catering skills.

For more information on the charity’s work contact Christina Wigmore chris@soft-touch.org.uk NICHE | 197

What’s on

Don’t you just love this time of year? So many festivities and things going on for everyone to enjoy. We are looking forward to loads of different things which are happening in and around Leicestershire over the coming months and here is a taster of what we are getting excited for.... A season of lights, fairs and shows mean this festive season is wonderfully packed with entertainment for the whole family. The Curve are showcasing some serious talent this year with their version of the perfectly apt Oliver production and De Montfort Hall welcome Snow White as their pantomime ,which stars Loose Women’s Sherrie Hewson, it NICHE | 198

looks like great fun. Diwali is right around the corner and with the celebrations in Leicester being one of the biggest outside of India,there is plenty for everybody to enjoy. The festival of light will attract thousands and thousands of people to the city, and with events planned for weeks around Diwali Day, including shows, dances, talks, celebratory parties and museum exhibitions, joining in is easy. There are plenty of Christmas things going on in and around Leicester with Sunday 22nd November being a key date for your diaries as the city hosts its annual Christmas in the City event, expect to see stars from the Snow White show, lights being switched on and the Winter Food Market

bringing lots of lovely festive foods. Look out for a number of Christmas craft fairs too, there are loads to attend and they provide the very best shopping opportunities. The last weekend in November is a busy shopping one with Stoneygate’s annual Christmas Market on the 29th featuring gifts, crafts and festive food plus, Studio NL at The Manor,Tur Langton are hosting a Christmas Craft Weekender on the 28th and 29th where we are expecting to find lots of lovely artisans selling their wares, pop-up crafts, delicious local foods and workshops too. So, with so much going on over the coming months we say stay local this year- shop local, eat local and celebrate local! www.visitleicester.info

27 NOV – 16 JAN

A CURVE PRODUCTION

BOOK, MUSIC & LYRICS LIONEL BART DIRECTOR PAUL KERRYSON ORCHESTRAL ARRANGEMENTS BY WILLIAM DAVID BROHN BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CAMERON MACKINTOSH AND THE SOUTHBROOK GROUP

AT WORK WITH CURVE AND… • • • • •

Raise your brand profile Entertain your clients in our iconic venue Network with a diverse range of businesses Reward and engage your employees Fulfil CSR objectives – we are a registered charity, serving our communities

For more information call Sunita Patel on 0116 242 3597 Email development@curvetheatre.co.uk Or visit www.curveonline.co.uk/business

Upbeat approach to Equality & Diversity Leicester Pride is Leicesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) festival, held at the beginning of September. A parade through the city culminates in a celebration or party in Victora Park. This year the main stage was headlined by Leicesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own darling Sam Bailey and an upbeat DJ set followed by Lisa Lashes. Leicester Pride is the centre piece

NICHE | 200

event for the LGBT in Leicester and was attended and enjoyed by thousands of people. The main goal of the event is to promote equality and diversity, advance education and eliminate discrimination in relation to LGBT people. This provides benefit to the public by raising awareness in issues affecting said persons in particular by promoting and staging an annual LGBT festival and making

grants and/or donations to other charitable and voluntary organisations with the object of developing an environment in favour of LGBT equality by providing information, advice and support. To find out more visit www.leicesterpride.com entertainment, so much so that

What’s On

NICHE | 201

Oodles of Atmosphere, Art & Ambience A beautiful September autumnal sunset gave guests a warm welcome to the launch event of Leicestershire’s newest village pub and eaterie Crab & Cow, Leire. Attendees were greeted by host and manager Nick Broderick with a glass of bubbles and sample canapés from the Crab & Cow seafood inspired menu. Nick commented: “We just wanted to host a nice evening to let our hair down and share it with friends old and new, getting the restaurant set up and everything in

place has been very hard work, but we are so pleased with where we are now.” Antidote Art’s Sara Lovatt and Rich Atkiss were on hand with a superb selection of artwork from their gallery in neighbouring Lutterworth, featuring artists Doug Hyde, Todd White and Danielle O’Connor Akiyama. BBC Radio Leicester’s weekend hosts, Tony Wadsworth and Julie Mayer provided anecdotal

entertainment,sosomuch muchsosothat that entertainment, we’ve invited them to share their story with us, see their feature in this issue.

Main Street, Leire, Lutterworth, LE17 5HE www.crabandcow.co.uk 01455 208 923

What’s On

Breakfast Heaven at Cafe 96 Degrees Our new favourite cafe are making it a heck of a lot easier for you to make healthy breakfast choices - all day long if you like. Cafe 96 Degree’s new healthy all-day breakfast menu is causing quite a stir and with twists on classics and innovative taste bud tingling new ideas, you won’t want to go anywhere else for your breakfast in Leicester - we practically guarantee it! The menu features such delights as smoked salmon topped with grated cucumber and cottage cheese and our personal highlight; natural yoghurt and sliced banana topped with honey and cinnamon, yep that’s right the menu is breakfast heaven and a virtuous, healthy one at that. You can accompany your breakfast in this fabulous cafe with a host of perfectly brewed coffee’s and an array of tea’s, hot chocolates and soft drinks in the relaxing yet vibrant surroundings. A visit is comfortable enough to host a social gathering breakfast, and a solo breakfast too. Try it for yourself and see what all the fuss is about!

Tyrrells Merry Crisp-mas Crisp Available from Tesco and independent stores nationwide from 1st November until 31st December. RRP of £2.99 for 125g.

Godiva Mousse Meringue Collection for Christmas in a beautiful pink box, in support of Breast Cancer. 16 piece box set is £23 with 10% of all sale proceeds being donated.

Tracklements – an artisan, handmade range of condiments. Fresh Chili Jam £3.80 250g. Traditional Mint Sauce £2.55. Particularly British Piccalilli £3.80 270g. Available from the best speciality retailers nationwide and www.tracklements.co.uk

BRYT Haute Couture Gift Box for Her with Nourish Serum £80.00. Available from www.brytskincare.co.uk

Kerstin FlorianLavender Dreams Duo £65.00. Available from www.kerstinflorian.co.uk

42 Braunstone Gate Braunstone Gate Leicester 0116 255 5474 www.cafe96degrees.co.uk

HoMedics NEWA treats the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles providing long-term results £199.00. Available widely in Boots stores and online www.boots.com

Avoid The Ponytail Dent. Quif Magi:Bobble RRP £2.95. Available from www.magibobble.com NICHE | 203

Travel in Style

Image curtesy of Not Just Travel

NICHE | 204

Travel in Style

Algarve Vale Do Lobo

Spotlight on Lytham and St Annes Eastham Hall is the perfect location for exploring all that the are of Lytham has to offer. At just a mile and a half away from Eastham Hall – five minutes by car or a 20 minute walk and with St Annes too only a couple of miles further up the coast. All the lights and action of Blackpool is also just a short drive away. So, what can you do in the area? Well, both Lytham and St Annes offer a huge range of attractions with a vast array of independent shops, bars and eateries and of course sandy beaches. For the keen golfer, there are plenty of highly rated golf courses in the area too. Anyone seeking a bit of history, there is the always picturesque Lytham Windmill or Lytham Hall and for those wanting to step up the pace, the ever popular resort of Blackpool is only seven miles up the coast. This infamous location offers everything from the exhilaration of the world-famous Pleasure Beach to the beautifully restored Grand Theatre and is perfect for families wanting to see the sights. The Blackpool Tower and Dungeon, Sealife Centre and Madame Tussauds are great attractions for you and your family to enjoy too and offers the opportunity for days out that are jam-packed with adventure. www.easthamhall.co.uk Eastham Hall Caravan Park, Saltcotes Rd, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire FY8 4LS Phone: 01253 737907

Villa for 4 2 minute walk to the beach Free use of tennis courts, pool and gym at Vale Do Lobo Tennis Centre Good discount on twilight golf Large private balcony with seaviews

Tel: 01935 891241 peakevenetia@rocketmail.com www.1valedolobo.co.uk

Step back in time for a journey you will never forget... Experience the grandeur of the Isle of Man’s Victorian steam and electric railways, perfectly frozen in time. Sit back, relax and enjoy a journey through the beautiful and ever changing Manx countryside thanks to Victorian engineering that has well and truly stood the test of time.

2016 Season

Special Events

Isle of Man Steam Railway

Rush Hour on the Railways

Saturday 5 March to Sunday 6 November 2016

Manx Electric Railway Friday 18 March to Sunday 30 October 2016

Snaefell Mountain Railway Friday 24 March to Sunday 30 October 2016

25-28 March 2016

Manx Heritage Transport Festival 27-31 July 2016

Island at War

20-21 August 2016

North by Electric Step aboard your tram car at the Manx Electric Railway terminus at Douglas known as Derby Castle. Sit back and relax as the spectacular Manx countryside passes slowly by. The Manx Electric Railway hugs the Island’s east coast scenery as it winds its way north towards Laxey and Ramsey. Laxey is the starting point for the Snaefell Mountain Railway, a unique Victorian enterprise which winds its way up above 2,000 feet for breathtaking views.

South by Steam Opened in 1873, this narrow gauge railway still operates its original locomotives and carriages. The railway runs through an ever changing landscape to a choice of destinations in the south of the Island. Board the train at Douglas and step back in time to the golden age of steam.

FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, NEWS AND INFORMATION, CALL 01624 662525

www.rail.im

isleofmanrailways

@IOMRailways

NICHE | 205

No destination out of reach with Purely Prestigious Luxury Travel Discover. Imagine what you could discover in the world with the help of an independent travel expert. The destination experts at Purely Prestigious Luxury Travel Company know travel, and they know it well. Finding the right place for your holiday with exactly the right activities, culture and adventure is no easy feat and yet with your personal travel consultant at Purely Prestigious finding your extraordinary experience it is an absolute certainty. Anywhere you want to go, whether you know or need inspiration Purely Prestigious will surprise and delight you with an experience you will never forget. Their expertise and extensive contacts, as well as first-hand knowledge of the destinations and suppliers they recommend, are priceless. Discover the destinations that no-one knows about, the

NICHE | 206

hidden gems of perfection in the world to create an experience that is far from the beaten track all without having to do any of the tracking down. Purely Prestige can do it all, whether it’s travelling in style by private jet, relaxing on a remote island or scaling the mountains, there is nowhere you can’t go with the assistance of Purely Prestigious. Your tailor-made experience will be like nothing else. All you need to do is tell your consultant all about you, they know the right questions to ask to discover your tastes and preferences and will then start working on what your trip might look like and making your dreams a reality. Perhaps you know you want something special but don’t know what it is? No problem. Purely Prestigious will plan the whole trip for you,

including itineraries, all transport and match make you with a break or adventure that suits you and your tastes entirely. They can even arrange trips to Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic - Outer space, and the stars are within reach for you with this brand. Luxury, all inclusive wedding packages are another forte of the brand with no location

Travel in Style

out of reach; a recent wedding had exclusive access to a beautiful palace in Rajasthan, India. The wedding was directed by on ground and competent wedding planners, organised by Purely Prestigious who took care of every single detail. Unique and bespoke Honeymoons are also popular with the Purely Prestigious team. The company understands that this romantic period of your life needs to be out of this world and extraordinarily special in marking the start of your life together as a married couple and with Purely Prestigious, it will be suitably perfect in every way, of that you can be certain. Once the trip is outlined you will be able to tweak it in any which way you like to ensure the trip is all you hoped for and more. Everything is taken care of, all the bookings, confirming and organising so that you don’t need to worry or concern

yourself with a single thing, except sitting back and enjoying it all. As you pack your bags for your trip, you can be nothing but excited for your planned and taken care of adventure knowing the details are all in safe, reliable hands. Having Purely Prestigious Travel

“Purely Prestige can do it all, whether its travelling in style by private jet, relaxing on a remote island or scaling the mountains” arrange your luxury trip couldn’t be simpler and their contacts with the very best in suppliers mean that you receive the very best possible price for your trip. So, not only does using this efficient and knowledgeable company to leave you without stress, but you also get the very best experience for the very best money. Priding themselves on the

little touches, your consultant will be aware of your trip timings and all the steps you will be taking on your journey, so they will keep track of things, making sure it all runs smoothly, and they will do all they can to surprise you with the little details that will all add up to the experience and memories of a lifetime. The practical and thoughtful things like arranging for flowers and champagne to be in your room for your arrival and a travel guide with hints, tips and recommendations for your destination are all part and parcel of the luxury brand. Discover the most breathtaking secret locations and experience the world in all its splendor with Purely Prestigious Travel.

www.purelyprestigious.com purelyprestigious @purelyprestigio

NICHE | 207

Relax, recuperate and explore at Eastham Hall Eastham Hall of Lytham invites you to enjoy all the delights of the coast this Autumn and Winter. The sea’s ever-changing landscape makes it an appealing break not only in the warmer months but the colder too. Cosy up in your holiday home or touring caravan at the delightful Eastham Hall, go sightseeing in the day or simply take in the wildlife and sea air with walks on the chic coastline. See the magnificent Blackpool Illuminations and take some time out from your busy life to relax and recuperate or perhaps seek out some adventure. A stay at Eastham means you are located on the outskirts of Lytham, an ideal place to explore both Lytham and St Annes, two separate towns with lots to offer in the way of attractions and down time relaxation. Whatever you are looking for from a break away from it all and long blustery walks; NICHE | 208

some down time with the family or a big adventure exploring all the attractions and lights of Blackpool; it’s all nearby and ready for you to enjoy. Eastham Hall and its surrounding area has all you could hope for from a seaside break and more besides. Lytham town centre is only a mile and a half away from Eastham Hall – five minutes by car or a pleasant 20-minute walk, the centre of St Annes is only a couple of miles further up the coast. There is something for everyone nearby including stylish shops, cafes and bars and golf clubs galore. This lovely, inviting rural area has been owned and managed by the Kirkham family for over 50 years, and they have always delighted in sharing the area with visitors in this sought-after place. The friendly proprietors know the area inside out and are more than happy to share with you suggestions and ideas for how you can get the most out of your stay in the area. Wildlife thrives on the land with

careful consideration given by the Kirkham’s to the nearby animal inhabitants! The park’s secluded, level grounds are protected by shelter belts of mixed deciduous trees and hedges, which are a haven for wildlife, including barn owls, little owls, tawny owls, woodpeckers and brown hares. Listen carefully to the lovely silence with birdsong at night-time which includes skylarks in high summer. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, why not catch the sunset across the low, flat landscape which opens up to big skies and the perfect view of the setting sun? You will find many indigenous species of plants and the Eastham team source as many of their supplies as possible from local sources. On site, there are newly refurbished toilets and showers plus a well stocked on site convenient shop, which is open seven days a week and includes bread, milk and eggs from local producers. Should you want to check in with the technological world occasionally, you can as the park has wireless internet too. The park also boasts a fantastic children’s adventure playground

perfect for letting the kids run a bit wild, plus there is extensive playing fields and a dedicated dog exercise area, so there is plenty to do for the children and pets too. The site is very popular with families and couples alike who want a breakaway to explore the local area or for those attracted to the bright lights of Blackpool. Here are just a few recent reviews from caravanners who love Eastham... ‘We have just left here after our 4 day stay. And don’t have a bad word to say. Staff really lovely. It’s a really friendly place to stay with a small park for kids to play and a massive field for family games i.e football, tennis, etc. even a separate field for dogs to play. The shop was good too and had everything we needed. Have to say the shower blocks were lovely and warm, bright and very clean best I have seen. Thanks for a great few days away from home we will be back soon.’ ‘One of the best sites we have ever visited; friendly and helpful staff, Calor gas point, super pitch with all pros and cons and very clean toilet blocks. A short drive from

Lytham and Blackpool with they have to offer. We’ve been many times already and will come again and again!’ ‘What can I say? Wonderful! Just returned from a weekend break in our tourer - the site is well laid out, spotless facilities with plenty of hot water; all areas are well-kept. The site is well-managed, and the friendly staff were so helpful. We will definitely return.’ So, if you are looking for friendly, well-kept site with easy access to some great local attractions, then Eastham Hall is for you as a perfect wintry, cosy getaway. Or, why not book in advance for Spring and Summer 2016, there are some great early bird offers to be had!

www.easthamhall.co.uk Eastham Hall Caravan Park, Saltcotes Rd, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire FY8 4LS 01253 737907 NICHE | 209

NICHE | 210